Dumaguete City

Dumaguete City, the charming capital of Negros Oriental, is a coastal gem that effortlessly blends laid-back vibes with rich culture, academic prestige, and stunning natural wonders. Often called the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete lives up to its name with friendly locals, scenic boulevards, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for wanderers and soul-searchers alike.

Start your adventure along Rizal Boulevard, a dreamy seaside promenade lined with heritage lamps, food stalls, and breezy ocean views perfect for sunrise jogs or romantic sunset strolls. Visit Silliman University, the first American-founded university in Asia, featuring a museum and century-old acacia trees. Island-hop to Apo Island, world-famous for its sea turtles and vibrant coral gardens, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Other must-sees include Casaroro Falls, Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, and Pulangbato Falls.

Dumaguete’s culture is a colorful tapestry of Spanish, American, and Filipino influences. It’s a university town, bustling with young creatives and intellectuals. Locals speak Cebuano (Binisaya) as the primary language, but you’ll get by easily with English and Filipino, too. The warm hospitality here isn’t just cliché it’s a way of life.

Prepare your taste buds! Dumaguete is known for its silvanas (sweet frozen cookie treats from Sans Rival Cakes & Pastries), budbod kabog (a millet rice delicacy), and seafood straight from the waters. Don’t forget to try sizzling squid, native lechon, and fresh kinilaw. Café culture is strong here too chill out at local favorites like Café Racer or Grounds & Brews.

Join the lively Sandurot Festival, a celebration of unity and cultural exchange rooted in Dumaguete’s welcoming spirit. It features street dancing, music, and colorful floats that show off the city’s history of hospitality and multicultural harmony. Another exciting event is the Buglasan Festival, the “Festival of Festivals” of Negros Oriental, where Dumaguete proudly showcases its art, culture, and people.

Dumaguete pulses with music from acoustic gigs in boulevard cafés to student-led indie shows. The city has become a haven for Filipino folk-pop, acoustic, and spoken word poetry. It’s the kind of place where strangers turn into jam-session buddies over shared melodies and beach bonfires.

• Apo Island’s marine sanctuary
• Silvanas and sans rival pastries
• Silliman University
• Friendly locals and expat community
• Budget-friendly digital nomad hub
• Rich biodiversity and natural attractions