Dumaguete adventures, scenic views, and me crammed on a tricycle with two strangers for 1.5 hours—tired, legs sore, but unforgettable. Curious how it went? Read my blog!

Disclaimer: All views expressed on this blog are my own based on my own experiences and do not represent of any entity with which I have been, are now or will be affiliated

March 30,2024
Batangas, Philippines

Date of Trip – March 14-15 & 19

I decided to explore Dumaguete and Siquijor since they are in close proximity to each other. I’m thrilled that I followed through with this journey because the unforgettable experiences I encountered in Dumaguete and Siquijor perfectly encapsulate why I love traveling the Philippines. From the stunning islands to the warm hospitality of the locals and the delectable cuisine, every aspect of my trip reaffirmed the beauty and charm of this country.

Dumaguete, renowned as the “Land of the Gentle People,” stands as the bustling capital of Negros Oriental, nestled in the southeastern part of Negros Island within the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. This delightful location offers unparalleled opportunities to partake in swimming alongside majestic turtles and observing the graceful movements of dolphins. Additionally, it hosts esteemed academic establishments, notably featuring one of the nation’s oldest American private universities and the pioneering Protestant school established in a predominantly Catholic country, namely Silliman University.

Getting to Dumaguete from Manila

I utilized my Cebpass for the flight. The journey from Manila to Dumaguete lasted approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes by air. The total cost of the flight from Manila to Dumaguete amounted to PHP 2,295.88, which includes a checked baggage allowance of 20kg (1 piece of baggage) and a carry-on baggage allowance of 7kg (1 piece). I had a wonderful experience at NAIA Terminal 3, where my flight departed from. The automation features, such as the online bag drop for luggage, greatly enhanced the convenience of the check-in process. Additionally, Terminal 3 boasts a more extensive selection of food options compared to other terminals at NAIA.

Budget – PHP10,000 inclusive of tour packages, transportation, food and accommodation

Capital – Dumaguete City is one of the five towns in Dumaguete, alongside Dauin, Bacong, Valencia, and Sibulan.

Currency/ATMs – The Philippine Peso is the accepted currency. ATMs are available throughout Dumaguete. While most establishments also accept credit card or GCash (online) payments, it’s advisable to always have cash readily available.

Laundry – If you plan to stay in Dumaguete for an extended period and require laundry services, there is a laundromat conveniently available.

Internet Connection – The primary network providers in the Philippines, Globe and Smart, maintain strong connectivity even in remote island areas where cellular signals are present.

Weather – tropical and has two distinct seasons: the dry season, which runs from April to October and the wet season, which runs from November to March.

Language – Bisaya. Tagalog and English can be understood by some residents.

Transportation – In Dumaguete, taxi services, Grab, or Angkas ride apps are unavailable, so the primary modes of transportation are typically tricycles and buses. They provide tricycles for transportation within the town at a fare of only PHP20.

Things to Note –
1. Upon arrival at the airport, tricycles are stationed outside the exit, typically charging a minimum fare of PHP300 to transport you to your destination. To save on costs, it’s advisable to hail a tricycle outside the airport and take a brief 5-10 minute walk. However, if convenience is preferred, you can opt to hail a tricycle directly outside the airport.

Tour Package – I availed a tour with Kuya Thony whom I came across a friend recommended him Dumaguete Valencia Tour Guide. Here are the tour packages I availed:

1. Apo Island Tour – PHP2,200 + PHP600 (pick up and drop off via tricycle in the hotel) + PHP200 tip inclusive of boat fees and food. I joined a group for this tour.
2. Manjuyod White Sandbar & Dolphin Watching – PHP1,200 per head + Docking fee (PHP110) + PHP100 tip + PHP600. (pick up and drop off via tricycle in the hotel) inclusive of boat fees and food. I joined a group for this tour.
   Total Cost of Package – PHP5,010

Points to Remember in Dumaguete: Public smoking is prohibited.

Accommodation –

The rate for my three-night stay in a twin room at The U-Pension is PHP 4,500.00, with a PHP 1000 deposit required upon check-in, which will be refunded upon check-out. The hotel is conveniently situated near Dumaguete port and Silliman University, and it features an elevator for easy access with luggage. Additionally, it’s conveniently located near a laundromat, convenience stores, and ATMs.

Although I appreciated the spaciousness of my room, I was disappointed with some aspects of my stay. The air conditioning took a while to cool the room, there was a clog in the toilet, and the toiletries provided were insufficient. Considering the price, I found it to be quite expensive. Therefore, I wouldn’t recommend this place, and I’ll opt for a different accommodation next time.

Things to Bring – cash, water, sunblock, cap, umbrella, waterproof bags, powerbank, plastic bags to cover your things, swimwear and trail sandals/shoes.

Itinerary

Day1 March 14, 2024 (Thursday)
NAIA Terminal 3

My journey from Batangas to NAIA Terminal 3 took approximately 4 hours, although it could have been completed in 3 hours. The additional time was due to waiting for the bus to depart from the terminal.

Upon reaching NAIA Terminal 3, the automated check-in process facilitated a smooth experience without any complications. Following that, I patiently awaited my flight, and thankfully, there were no delays, ensuring a hassle-free travel journey. The shuttle bus promptly picked us up and we boarded on schedule. Additionally, the aircraft had a seating configuration of 3×3, and the flight was not fully booked.

I arrived at approximately 8:00pm and hailed a tricycle from the airport, arriving at my accommodation around 8:30pm. After settling in, I showered and then had dinner in Dumaguete.

Sibulan Airport – The domestic airport in Dumaguete is compact, lacking any food options within its premises. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for your flight outside of the airport.

Silliman University – this is just 2 minute walking distance my accommodation
Sans Rival Bistro – I arrived at 9:30pm, only half an hour before closing time, so I didn’t have a chance to have dinner. However, I did purchase one piece of Silvana. These delightful treats come in various flavors such as ube, buttercream, and chocolate, and are also available in packs of 10 for pasalubong (food souvenirs).

Silvanas, a beloved dessert with roots in Dumaguete, is a well-known Filipino frozen delicacy. Reminiscent of the sans rival cake, which is inspired by the French Dacquoise dessert, Silvanas are crafted by sandwiching French buttercream between meringue wafers. These delectable treats are then coated in additional buttercream and rolled in ground cashews or cracker crumbs, providing both flavor and texture. Because they contain buttercream, these Filipino treats are best served frozen to maintain their ideal texture.

Casablanca Restaurant – PHP300-500

I decided to have dinner at Casablanca, which is just a 2-minute walk from Sans Rival Bistro, conveniently located near Dumaguete’s Rizal Boulevard. I ordered a jackfruit shake and grilled pork barbecue ribs topped with mashed potato and fried banana. The meal was absolutely delicious! It was my first time trying a jackfruit shake, and although it was very sweet, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Overall, I had an excellent dining experience. The staff were extremely accommodating, and I appreciated that the restaurant did not have a service charge.

Rizal Boulevard

I took a leisurely stroll along Rizal Boulevard, which is a 10-minute walk from my accommodation and just a 2-minute walk from Casa Blanca. Named after Dr. Jose Rizal, a revered national figure in the Philippines, Rizal Boulevard offered a serene atmosphere with the soothing sounds of waves crashing along the waterfront. I enjoyed the peaceful ambiance as people sang and the surroundings remained impeccably clean. Additionally, souvenir stalls lined the boulevard, adding to the charm of the area. Overall, it was a delightful evening stroll.

March 15, 2024 (Friday)
Apo Island

Located 7 kilometers away from the southeastern tip of Negros Island and 30 kilometers south of Dumaguete, the capital of Negros Oriental in the Philippines, is Apo Island. The name “Apo” translates to “elder” or “respected ancestor” in the Visayan languages.

Apo Island is a serene and unspoiled island enveloped by tranquil, crystal-clear waters. Renowned for its exceptional underwater scenery, the island offers ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving. In fact, it has garnered recognition as one of the premier dive destinations globally.

Kuya Thony, my designated driver, picked me up from my accommodation, where I joined a group of friends. Initially, I felt a bit awkward and didn’t engage in conversation, but the cramped space in the tricycle made it difficult to maintain silence (I spoke to them on the 2nd day btw in an island haha). Among my companions were couples, some of whom were on the brink of marriage, while one pair had recently gotten engaged—congratulations to them!

The journey to our destination took about 1.5 hours, and it was quite uncomfortable sitting in the tricycle with five of us squeezed in. The slow speed of the tricycle, averaging just 30 kilometers per hour, added to the discomfort, and my legs began to ache. In hindsight, I realized that hiring a car for the tour would have been a more comfortable option.

Upon our arrival, we started the day with breakfast and completed the registration process. Unfortunately, the food was rather disappointing as it was overly salty. I also bought a cellphone case in the island for only PHP300, allowing me to capture videos underwater with the turtles. It turned out to be the best investment as it proved to be highly effective underwater.

I had an unforgettable experience swimming with the turtles at this location. It was an incredible aquatic adventure that will stay with me forever. You can view my videos of swimming with the turtles on my Instagram here and Tiktok here . I absolutely want to revisit this experience time and time again! What an incredible adventure!

We returned around 2:30pm and arrived back in Dumaguete City by 4:00pm. Afterward, I freshened up with a shower and then went to grab a snack.

Buglas Isla Cafe
PHP150-300

I absolutely adore this place—it exudes a cozy atmosphere, being an ancestral home transformed into a charming brunch spot with the option to dine alfresco. Surrounded by lush trees, the ambiance is truly serene.

To reach this destination, you’ll be picked up by a motor tricycle, adding to the unique experience.

During my visit, I indulged in their taho cheesecake with dark sugar syrup and sago, accompanied by a mint mojito cold brew coffee. It was an absolute delight—the perfect snack that catered perfectly to my taste buds. The innovative use of taho (bean curd) as a dessert was particularly impressive, offering a soft and creamy texture that left me astonished. Coupled with the refreshing cold brew, it was an unforgettable culinary experience.

Hayahay Treehouse Bar and View Deck
PHP300-500

Nestled along the beachside and just a 10-minute stroll from Buglas Isla Cafe, you’ll find this This charming open-air restaurant. What sets it apart is its stunning view deck and its dedication to serving authentic Visayan dishes, unique to Dumaguete.

During my visit, I couldn’t resist trying their signature dish, the Dumaguete Express. This delectable creation features shrimp and squid sautéed with young coconut meat, topped with crispy lechon kawali (fried pork). It was an explosion of flavors—a perfect harmony of seafood goodness. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to savor the authentic flavors of Visayan cuisine.

Solbar
PHP150-200

Whenever I embark on a journey, I always make it a point to sample the local craft beers, and my visit to Dumaguete was no exception. At Solbar, an eclectic hub boasting various food stalls, I stumbled upon a local craft beer shop that piqued my curiosity. Despite the limited selection, I couldn’t resist indulging in a drink at this charming alfresco spot, just a 5-minute stroll from Hayahay. Despite the sparse crowd, the experience was immensely enjoyable, leaving me with fond memories of my time there.

March 16, 2024 (Saturday)
Manjuyod Sand Bar

Once again, Kuya Thony arrived to pick me up, accompanied by the group of friends I was traveling with. Our journey to our destination took a daunting two hours, and it proved to be quite a challenging ride. The cramped confines of the tricycle made for an uncomfortable experience, and the slow progress of the journey only added to our frustration. With little space to move and stretch our legs, the travel time felt like a true test of endurance.

Upon finally reaching our destination, we were relieved to step out of the tricycle. However, our hunger had grown during the arduous journey, prompting us to make a pit stop at Jollibee for breakfast. Opting for a chicken sandwich, I found the taste to be somewhat lacking, but it was better than going hungry. Despite the less-than-ideal start to the day, the company of people and the promise of new adventures ahead kept our spirits high as we ventured forth to explore our destination.

Following the registration process, we boarded the boat, and within 15 minutes, we arrived at the renowned Manjuyod Sandbar. The white sand bar of Manjuyod is a breathtaking stretch of pristine white sand, situated just a 15-minute boat ride from the coast of Bais City in the Negros Oriental province of the Philippines. This stunning island emerges only during low tide, revealing its mesmerizing beauty to visitors. Dotted along its shores are native wooden houses built on stilts, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a postcard. As the tide rises, these houses appear to float gracefully on the water, adding to the enchanting allure of Manjuyod. It was also famous for it’s dolphins but due to the strong waves, we were not able to spot dolphins, it would have been the perfect experience if we had watched and swam with them. I will definitely be back here.

We had lunch and headed back home. I still had time to eat, drink and had my nails done upon arriving at Dumaguete City.

Sans Rival Bistro
PHP300-500

Once again, I indulged in a snack at Sans Rival Bistro. This time, I decided to try their three layers of Bisaya Flavors, featuring budbud kabog, biko (Filipino rice cake), and cassava topped with tablea, pinipig (rice crispies), and lunok (reduced coconut milk). Additionally, I ordered their Filipino spaghetti. The servings were so generous that I ended up sharing with some kids I encountered on the streets (I was seated al fresco). Not only was the portion size impressive, but the flavors were also absolutely delightful. Sampling these local specialties added an extra layer of enjoyment to my experience at Sans Rival Bistro. It’s safe to say that this charming establishment has earned a spot as one of my favorite restaurants in Dumaguete.

Pain & Polish Nail House
PHP800-1000

During my search for a street vendor selling tempura, I stumbled upon a charming nail salon instead. Seeing the opportunity for some pampering, I decided to treat myself to a relaxing session. It turned out to be a wonderful impromptu decision, as I thoroughly enjoyed my time being pampered at this quaint nail salon.

Lantaw Native Restaurant
PHP300-500

This restaurant in Dumaguete is widely renowned for its offerings of authentic Visayan cuisine. A franchise of the esteemed Lantaw Native Restaurant from Cebu in Cordova, it promises an unforgettable dining experience. Opting for the chicken binakol—a dish featuring native chicken cooked with young coconut water—I found it to be reminiscent of tinola or chicken soup from Luzon. While I still prefer our traditional tinola, I must admit that this version was quite delightful. The generous serving size, perfect for 2-3 people, makes this restaurant an excellent choice for families seeking a hearty meal together.

The Apartment 5 Cocktail & Bar
PHP300-500

While exploring Dumaguete, I stumbled upon a hidden gem—a cocktail bar highly recommended for its stellar selection. Tucked away along the city’s streets, it took some effort to find, but the search was well worth it. With its unassuming green door and cozy interior, the bar exuded an intimate ambiance that immediately drew me in.

As I settled in, I was impressed by the extensive cocktail menu and decided to try the turon rum-based drink. The concoction was nothing short of extraordinary, with each sip bursting with flavor. The bartenders were incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain the intricacies of each drink, adding to the overall experience.

With its unique blend of flavors and inviting atmosphere, I left the cocktail bar already planning my next visit. After all, where else can you find a drink inspired by the delightful combination of turon—a Filipino favorite—and rum?

March 17-19 Siquijor trip link here

March 19, 2024 (Tuesday)
Sibulan Airport

I returned to Dumaguete for my flight back to Manila, intending to spend my final moments touring the city. However, feeling exhausted from the unforgettable adventure in Siquijor (which was absolutely amazing!), I opted to relax and unwind while waiting for my flight. Arriving back in Dumaguete around 2:00pm, I headed to Sans Rival Bistro once again for a snack, while my rented driver patiently waited outside the restaurant for an hour. I hired his services for PHP300.
To note – The port in Siquijor charges a porter fee of 100PHP and a terminal fee of 14PHP. Additionally, my flight was delayed by an hour.

Upon reaching Sibulan airport, I checked in and found myself with some time to spare due to the airport’s small size. With no other activities to occupy my time, I decided to visit the nearby gasoline store to check my emails. Eventually, around 5:00pm, I returned to the airport and passed the time by watching Netflix.

Reflecting on my time in Dumaguete, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the wonderful experiences I had. Although I didn’t get to explore all the tours I had planned, I’m already looking forward to returning in the future to discover even more of what this enchanting city has to offer.


Love,
Maria, sometimes, Niskie