1. Negros Oriental Capitol Building
The capitol building is situated at the Freedom Park. This structure houses the powerful people in the province. Similar to the other capitol buildings in the Philippines, its structure is covered with white and has four columns in front. On the other hand, the park has an open ground that serves as a playground for the children studying at the schools nearby.
2. Campanario de Dumaguete
It was built upon one of the four original massive watchtowers that parish priest Don Jose Manuel Fernandez de Septien built in the 1760s to discourage Moros from pillaging the town. The two layers, which are now known as the bell tower or the campanario, were added during the administration of Fray Juan Felix dela Encarnacion in 1867. - according to the historical marker.
3. Silliman Hall
This place is by the beach so I love the ambience here, especially during sunset. Its structure has an American architecture. It served as a school library, classroom and headquarters of the Japanese army during the World War II. Today, it serves as a museum that houses different artifacts from the past.
4. Dumaguete Signboard.
Take a Selfie! Situated on Rizal Boulevard, it is one of the most visited areas in the city because of the golden sunset and the cold breeze blowing. Not only that, as the sun is setting, street food vendors occupy one of the lanes to sell fishballs, kikiam, squid balls and many more. During my visit, had my dinner at one of the food stalls. If you are looking for a place to taste their local delicacies, there are a lot of choices and one of these is Jo's Chicken Inato near Silliman University. If you prefer fast food, there's Jolibee, McDo, Chowking and others.
The next day, I travelled outside the city and discovered the hidden beauty of the Municipality of Valencia, 20 to 30 minutes from Dumaguete. In front of the Freedom Park, I rode in a tricycle to the jeepney terminal bound for Valencia. Then, rode in a jeep to Valencia terminal and I met Kuya Agustino, my habal driver/tour guide. Can be contacted on Ph: 09973691174.
5. Casaroro Falls
Our first destination is a waterfall that stands 100 feet. Though the area is narrow, it is surrounded by luscious greens and healthy vegetation. Because of its height, the fresh and cool water falling creates a relaxing rushing sound harmonized with the birds' lullabies and wind blowing the trees. Before reaching this majestic waterfall, tourists need to walk on the concrete pathways with countless steps.
6. Pulang Bato Falls
This waterfall is not as grand as the Casaroro, however, its limestone cliff has a unique red colour making its name literally translate to "red rock" in English. This waterfall is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the hanging bridge and colourful ornaments. Restaurants and restrooms are available.
7. Red Rock Hot Spring
This place has an Asian atmosphere because of the cottages and plants surrounding the area. The natural crystal-clear warm water is continuously flowing into the pool where tourists can dip. According to my research, hot spring has a lot of health benefits, especially skin problems. Anyways, entrance fees are being collected and they also serve food to visitors. Light coloured fabric is not recommended.
8. Steaming Ground
It is a few minutes away from the Red Rock Hot Spring. This place is prominent as it is situated by the highway. There are vents on the side of a mountain where the steam goes out. The temperature is hot and there's a foul muddy smell. This is similar to the Sulfur vents of Mt. Apo.
9. Tierra Alta Lighthouse
It is part of Tierra Alta Residential Resort. It is one of the prime event destinations in Negros Oriental for a wedding and other types of gatherings. Sightseeing during sunset is another option. The place has a breath-taking picturesque where the natural beauty and man-made structures are combined with perfection.
10. Cata-Al World War 2 Museum
It is the most spectacular personal collection I've visited so far. When I entered the museum, I was stunned by everything on the display related to World War II. Owned by Constantino Cata-Al, one of the reserve officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during that time. The Cata-Al collection includes army uniforms, old and different kinds of guns, pistols and ammunition; Japanese memorabilia such as money, paintings, table wares; and many more.
All the above-mentioned tourist spots and destinations in Valencia, Negros Oriental are accessible via a habal-habal. At Valencia jeepney terminal, I met Kuya Agustino who brought me to these stunning places. You can contact him on Ph: 09973691174.
Creating a travel itinerary for Negros Oriental is not complicated and it has a lot of gorgeous and stunning tourist destinations. Dumaguete City, its capital, is highly urbanized and it is the centre of commerce and transportation to the different parts of the province. Also, finding a high-class hotel or a cheap backpacker lodge online or via Google Maps is easy. By the way, this province was my first destination of my solo backpacking in Region 7.
Where To Stay, How to Get Here, and My Flight to Dumaguete: I took a flight from Manila to Dumaguete City, with approximately 1.5 hours of travel time. At the airport, I rode in a tricycle to Metrobank in front of the Freedom Park and the capitol building. Then, walked to Antwet Backpackers Lodge, a cheap but a great place to stay. Before the sunset, using Google Map, I walked on the streets of the city to the different tourist spots nearby. READ: My Solo-Backpacking in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bohol
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