7 Tips for Living in Dumaguete City
Summary: Advice for people moving to Dumaguete City or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Dumaguete City or thinking about moving there.
Dumaguete City, located in the central Visayas region of the Philippines, is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads. Known as the "City of Gentle People," Dumaguete offers a relaxed lifestyle, affordable cost of living, and a vibrant local culture. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in this charming city.
1. Explore the Local Cuisine
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is through food. Dumaguete City is known for its fresh seafood, locally grown fruits, and traditional Filipino dishes. Some popular local restaurants include Lab-as Seafood Restaurant, which offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, and Sans Rival Bistro, famous for its silvanas and sans rival pastries. Don't miss out on trying "budbud kabog," a local delicacy made from millet and coconut milk, usually sold in the morning by street vendors.
2. Get to Know the Neighborhoods
Dumaguete City is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. The downtown area, for instance, is bustling with activity and is home to several universities, making it a vibrant and youthful area. On the other hand, the Valencia and Bacong neighborhoods offer a more laid-back and rural atmosphere, with beautiful natural surroundings and stunning views of the sea and mountains. Spend some time exploring these neighborhoods to find the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences best.
3. Enjoy the Natural Beauty
Dumaguete City is surrounded by natural beauty, from the azure sea to the lush mountains. Take a trip to the nearby Apo Island to snorkel with sea turtles, or hike up Mount Talinis for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding areas. The city's Rizal Boulevard is also a great place to enjoy a leisurely walk while watching the sunset.
4. Learn the Local Language
While English is widely spoken in Dumaguete City, learning the local language, Cebuano, can greatly enhance your experience. It allows you to communicate more effectively with locals and shows respect for their culture. There are several language schools in the city where you can take Cebuano lessons.
5. Embrace the Local Culture
Dumaguete City has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Sandurot Festival, for instance, is a week-long celebration of the city's history and culture, featuring street parades, dance competitions, and food festivals. By participating in these events, you can gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.
6. Stay Connected
As a digital nomad, staying connected is crucial. Fortunately, Dumaguete City has reliable internet service providers and several coworking spaces, such as The Workshop and The Portal. These spaces not only provide a conducive environment for work but also offer opportunities to network with other digital nomads and locals.
7. Get Involved in the Community
Finally, getting involved in the local community can make your stay in Dumaguete City more fulfilling. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer and contribute to local initiatives. Research groups that align with your interests and find ways to give back to this wonderful community that you are now a part of.
Living in Dumaguete City as an expat or digital nomad can be an enriching experience. By embracing the local culture, exploring the city's natural beauty, and getting involved in the community, you can truly make the most of your time in this charming city.
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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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