DUMAGUETE: TRAVEL DIARY

 LOCATION: DUMAGUETE, PHILIPPINES
This lively, little city offers has so much more to offer than just scenic, island destinations…

 

Known as the The City of Gentle People, Dumaguete City is located on the south-eastern part of Negros Oriental. Calling paradise destinations such as Siquijor and Cebu close neighbours, Dumaguete is definitely in good company. In many ways, the city’s close proximity to these islands makes it an ideal jump off point. What I love most about Dumaguete is that there is so much to do inland, as well as on the water. A short boat ride will find yourself at Apo Island swimming with the majestic seaturtles or testing your courage swimming with the friendly, giant whale sharks in Oslob.

Being my first trip to the island of Negros Oriental I expected the views to be up to par with Philippine’s other famous, post-card worthy destinations but what I didn’t expect was the variety of delicious, culinary treats. The locally-loved BudBud: glutinous white or black rice paired with freshly made cocoa tsokolate and mango is a great introduction to the food of Dumaguete City. To experience flavours from the country side, drop by the weekly farmers market where the Lechon (roast pork) is so (so) good (seriously). And of course, you cannot visit Dumaguete without indulging a little (okay…alot) with a slice of Sans Rival cake – a rich, buttery, layered cake that has a unique, nougat texture. I found myself in complete bliss eating my little heart out. Ah Dumaguete… until we eat- I mean- meet again.