Located in the province of Negros Oriental, Dumaguete City is one of the Philippine’s undiscovered treasures. Also known as The City of Gentle People, Dumaguete is a quaint area, steeped in history while maintaining an affinity to nature. The city is well-known for its hospitality and the diverse personalities populating it, mostly due to the number of renowned colleges and universities in the area.

Named after the country’s national hero, Rizal Boulevard is a 780-meter strip of beachfront promenade in the city’s commercial district. Whether enjoying an al fresco meal in the day or having a nightcap, one is treated to a cool breeze and the refreshing view of the sea.

Built in 1811 to warn locals of Muslim marauders in search of slaves, the Dumaguete Belfry is the city’s architectural icon and is the oldest bell tower in the Visayas. Located next to the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, the belfry attracts several devotees lighting candles for their prayer requests and tourists who drop by just to admire the historical monument.

Established by Presbyterian missionaries in 1901, Silliman University sits on a sprawling lot where historical buildings sit next to state-of-the-art facilities. Among said historical buildings is Siliman Hall which now houses artifacts and archeological discoveries that date back to about 2000 years ago.

About an hour’s drive away from Dumaguete is Bais, where you can board a boat to go dolphin and whale watching. After enjoying the view of dolphins swimming around the boat, tourists can retreat to the sand bar, where one can enjoy lunch on a private strip of beach.