Dumaguete, PhilippinesThe Insider's Guide to Dumaguete
Summary: Living it Up in Dumaguete: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.
Welcome to Dumaguete! If you're planning to move to Dumaguete, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Dumaguete has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Dumaguete.
Dumaguete, often referred to as the "City of Gentle People," is a charming city in the Philippines that offers a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Silliman University, the first American university in the Philippines and the entire Asian continent. Its campus is home to several heritage buildings, a marine laboratory, and a museum with a vast collection of ethnographic and natural history artifacts.
Another must-visit is the Dumaguete Cathedral, also known as St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, which is the oldest stone church in Negros. Adjacent to it is the Belfry Tower, a historic bell tower that served as a watchtower during the Spanish era. Rizal Boulevard, named after the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, is a popular seaside promenade lined with restaurants and shops. It's a perfect place to enjoy the sunset and local street food.
For nature lovers, the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao are a haven of tranquility and biodiversity. The lakes are surrounded by lush forests and offer activities like kayaking, trekking, and bird watching. Apo Island, a short boat ride from Dumaguete, is a world-renowned diving and snorkeling spot with its vibrant coral reefs and sea turtle population.
Dumaguete boasts a vibrant food and nightlife scene. One of the most popular restaurants is Lab-as Seafood Restaurant, known for its fresh seafood dishes and riverside setting. Another favorite is Sans Rival Bistro, famous for its silvanas and sans rival pastries. For a unique dining experience, try the Hayahay Treehouse Bar and View Deck, which offers a variety of Filipino and international dishes with a view of the sea.
When it comes to nightlife, Hayahay is also a popular spot for live music. Other popular bars include Tiki Bar, which offers a wide selection of cocktails and beers, and Why Not Disco, one of the city's longest-running nightclubs. El Amigo is a laid-back bar with a wide selection of local and imported beers, while Cafe Racer is a retro-themed bar known for its burgers and craft beers.
Recreational activities in Dumaguete are diverse, ranging from water sports to cultural experiences. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities, with several dive shops and resorts offering trips to nearby marine sanctuaries like Apo Island and Dauin. Harold's Dive Center and Liquid Dive Resort are among the well-known dive operators in the city.
For those who prefer land-based activities, trekking in Mount Talinis or the Twin Lakes is a great way to explore the region's natural beauty. The Valencia Eco-Tourism Park offers several outdoor activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and rock climbing.
Cultural experiences are also abundant in Dumaguete. The Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage (NOAH) offers workshops on stonecraft making, while the Sidlakan Negros Village showcases the province's rich cultural heritage. The Dumaguete Public Market is a bustling place where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. It's a great place to experience local life and try street food like tempura and balut.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Dumaguete : Making the Most of Life and Connections
"I've met a lot of fellow expats at my apartment complex. Most of them have lived there for years and are currently in their 60s or 70s. It's also easy to meet new Filipinos. Everyone has a smile on their face and most are quite friendly," said one expat living in Dumaguete.
"Dumaguete, Philippines, is a popular destination for expats, and there are numerous clubs and activities they can join to meet people and integrate into the local community. The Dumaguete Dive Club is a popular choice for those who enjoy exploring the underwater world, while the Dumaguete Sports Club offers a variety of sports activities, from basketball to tennis. For those who prefer cultural activities, the Dumaguete Arts and Culture Club organizes regular events and workshops. The Dumaguete Photography Club is another great option for those who want to capture the beauty of the Philippines through their lens. Expats can also join the Dumaguete Expats Club, which is a social group that organizes regular meetups and events. This club is a great way to meet other expats living in the area and share experiences and advice. In addition to joining clubs, expats can meet people in Dumaguete by volunteering at local charities or participating in community events. The city is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Sandurot Festival and the Buglasan Festival, which are great opportunities to meet locals and learn about Filipino culture. Another way to meet people is by taking language classes. Learning the local language, Cebuano or Tagalog, can help expats communicate with locals and make new friends. Finally, simply exploring the city and its surroundings can lead to unexpected encounters. Whether it's visiting the local markets, going for a hike in the nearby mountains, or relaxing on the beach, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people in Dumaguete," wrote a member in Dumaguete .
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"Filipino culture revolves around the family. They are much more cohesive and loving than the average Western family. That being said, locals are very welcoming to foreigners here. The Filipino couple that owns the sari-sari (small store) down the street invited me over to sing karaoke," commented an expat living in Dumaguete.
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Dumaguete, Philippines is generally relaxed and comfortable. The city is known for its friendly locals, low cost of living, and warm tropical climate. Expats often enjoy the city's vibrant culture, which includes a mix of festivals, markets, and local cuisine. The city is also home to several universities, giving it a youthful and energetic vibe.For digital nomads, Dumaguete offers reliable internet connectivity and a number of co-working spaces. The city's laid-back lifestyle and beautiful natural surroundings, including beaches and mountains, provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities during downtime. Healthcare facilities in Dumaguete are adequate for routine check-ups and minor health issues, but for serious conditions, expats may need to travel to larger cities. English is widely spoken in Dumaguete, making it easier for expats and digital nomads to communicate and navigate daily life.Despite its many advantages, Dumaguete also has its challenges. Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and public transportation is not always reliable. Additionally, while crime rates are generally low, expats are advised to take standard precautions to ensure their safety.Overall, Dumaguete offers a unique blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads seeking a slower pace of life," said an expat in Dumaguete .
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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