It was just past five in the morning when we disembarked, greeted by the stunning view of Rizal Boulevard, bathed in the soft light of sunrise. The ocean stretched before us, a calm vastness that whispered of new beginnings. I couldn’t resist taking a selfie in front of the iconic Silliman University, a small token of our arrival in this new city.

Our first stop was the local market, a lively place filled with people enjoying breakfast.

The perfect start to the day was a cup of rich, concentrated hot chocolate (Sikwate, made from traditional cacao tablea). I paired this with Puto Maya, a specialty found at the Dumaguete market, made of cooked glutinous rice.

The combination was phenomenal. The Puto Maya was actually the best part; it completely balanced the taste of the chocolate. Since the Sikwate is made from pure, unsweetened cacao, the savory, creamy texture of the glutinous rice provided the perfect counterpoint. The chocolate itself, easily the best I’d ever had, was made even better by this pairing.

Finding the Perfect Accommodation

After breakfast, we set off in search of accommodation. We visited several hotels, comparing prices and inclusions, but none seemed to offer the right balance of comfort and value. Our pre-selected hotel, however, was a gem. Though their check-in time was noon, the staff kindly allowed us to relax in their roof deck, where breakfast was served, while we waited. The space was simple yet inviting, with lush vegetable gardens and free-flying birds, and it offered a spectacular mountain view.

Around 8 AM, we were granted an early check-in, which was a pleasant surprise. The hotel even accepted card payments, though with a small fee of 33 pesos. Our room, spacious and equipped with air conditioning, hot water, and cable TV, was a bargain at just 800 pesos. We lucked out with a room that faced the mountain, offering a serene view that made us feel at home.

Exploring Silliman University and the City

After settling in, we ventured out to explore Silliman University, starting with the historic College of Fine Arts building, which dates back to the American colonial period. We walked across the campus, taking in the atmosphere and appreciating the mix of old and new structures. Unfortunately, the university museum was closed, so we visited the chapel and nearby buildings, learning more about the history of this esteemed institution before heading out.

For our third breakfast of the day, we stopped at Chin Loong, just across Rizal Boulevard. The value meals were generous, and while the food was delicious, the persistent requests from the Badjao people nearby for food and money made the experience less enjoyable.

Discovering Dumaguete’s Hidden Charms

After breakfast, we explored Robinsons Mall, not to shop, but simply to familiarize ourselves with the layout of the downtown area. Dumaguete is a city that’s easy to get lost in, but in the best way possible. The more you explore, the more you uncover about its charm and character.

By the time we wrapped up our tour of the city, I had already fallen in love with Dumaguete’s laid-back vibe, its rich history, and the warmth of its people. It wasn’t just a vacation, it was an adventure in discovery, one that reminded me of the joy found in stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.

I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into my journey! And stay tuned, there are plenty more photos and stories to share from this unforgettable weekend in Dumaguete.