The Pinay Solo Backpacker

Though commercialization is fast encroaching Dumaguete City, many still  consider it as a relaxed base to explore nearby islands such as Siquijor , Apo Island and Simunol Island.  Expats and tourists linger longer here, in fact, it is now a popular  retirement destination  in the Philippines.  Dumaguete City’s slow-paced appeal is enhanced by a handful of tourist attractions, a charming promenade and amiable people.

Here are some of the suggested activities to help you plan your Dumaguete City tour:

1. Take a Leisurely Walk in Siliman University 

Aptly referred to as the “university town” because most of its residents are students, Dumaguete City is home to the gorgeous Siliman University which is one of  top tourist spots here. It is dappled by verdant acacia-lined boulevards  concealing colossal buildings. Visit the beautiful chapel that sits in the green grounds of Siliman University, take a leisurely stroll and soak up the fresh atmosphere here.

2. Museum Hopping 

Not to be missed while inside the premise of Siliman University is the Anthropology Museum. Interesting age-old artifacts, indigenous tapestries and hand-woven products are enshrined here.  Also check out the Siliman University Whale Bone Museum or the Marine Laboratory which houses a collection of whale bones.

3. Stroll Around Quezon Park

Another tourist attraction in Dumaguete is the Quezon Park ( fronting the Dumaguete Cathedral and Belfry Tower),  a public park where locals  hang out.  Quezon Park houses the Jose Rizal and Maria Clara Monument, archaic canyons, a vintage fire truck and a tourism office.

4. Hang Out at Rizal Boulevard

Rizal Boulevard is a local favorite, it is bursting with restaurants and cafes and the tree-lined promenade offers a respite from the bustling city center.  This is one of the timeless tourist spot in Dumaguete with cemented benches and towering lamps dotting the area. It is also a perfect spot to watch the sunset and observe people.  At dusk,  chairs and tables start to fill the area and hawker stalls starts  selling grilled food and other inexpensive dishes. 

5. Visit the Dumaguete Cathedral 

St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, the seat of  Diocese of Dumaguete City prides itself as the oldest stone church in Negros Oriental. It stands proudly beside the iconic Belfry of Dumaguete.

6. Light a Candle at the Belfry Tower 

The massive old Belfry Tower looms over Dumaguete City and is the top tourist attraction in Dumaguete. It is a timeless landmark of this hurried metropolis, known as the oldest surviving structure of Dumaguete  that was built  back in 1760 to warn the residents of invading sea pirates.  Today, it houses the grotto of  Our Lady of Perpetual Help where locals light candles and pray and  souvenir shop of religious items. 

7. See the Negros Oriental Capitol 

Tourists who love visiting Capitols will surely be elated to see the classical Negros Oriental Provincial Capitol built in 1924. It has a lovely manicured recreational area named Aquino Park which is dotted with trees and a dancing fountain.

8. Pig on Foods

At night dine in Sta. Monica Beach Resort, they offer one of the best  buffet meals in Dumaguete. Other famed restaurants and cafe at the city center are: Casablanca, the charming Café Antonio set in a well-preserved old Spanish building, feast on seafood at Lab-as Seafood Restaurant and the artsy Jutz Café.  The local delicacy called bodbod  is made of sticky rice, milk, and sugar  while the bodbod tanjay is the bodbod version with native chocolate.

9. Indulge on Sans Rival 

Running the business since 1977, it has now turned into a charming café.  One of the top food destinations in Dumaguete is Sans Rival Cake and Pastries, must-try are he heavenly sans rival, the creamy silvanas, and the yummy cakes such as Black Forest, Brazo de Mercedes, Blue berry Cheesecake and Walnut Dacquoise. 

10.  Shop for Souvenirs

Dumaguete city may not be the epitome of a shopping haven but it has its own souvenir shops to boast. The Handumanan Souvenir Shop is said to be the city’s oldest souvenir shop, it is packed with Filipino products, trinkets,  key chains,  penholder, souvenir shirts and  Bell Tower miniatures.

But for one stop shopping, take a tricycle from the city center and rush to Sidlakang Negros Village near the Hall of Justice and Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital. It serves as a permanent site for trade and tourism exhibits, enter each pavilion and get a glimpse of the cultures of different towns of Negros Oriental.  Here you’ll find native-looking shops set in a well-manicured garden.  Each pavilions/ shops in Sidlakang Negros Village selling hand-made products, hand-woven textiles, shell products, souvenir items, trinkets, stoneware and furniture.

 

Disclosure: I explored Dumaguete City alone back in April 2012 but last December 2012,  Sta. Monica Beach Resort sponsored our stay and tour in the City of Gentle People.

 

*********************************************************************************************** About the Blogger : Gael is a Filipina solo adventurer, a dream chaser and a student of life.  Her (mis) adventures are documented in this blog. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter. For advertisement, partnerships and sponsorship, click here. or email me at thepinaysolobackpacker(at)yahoo(dot)com. **********************************************************************************************

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