Say Dumaguete and immediately, the word conjures images of a summertime, historic town of seascapes, sunshine and gentle, smiling people. People already know that it is a city of great diving destinations, not to mention the phenomenal experience of watching the whales and the dolphins frolic over blue seas. What they may not know? The food is divine!

Dumaguete City Philippines
Area Code: (35)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)

Dumaguete Trivia
Did you know that women were first admitted to the Silliman Institute, now called the Silliman University, in 1912. Pura Blanco was the first female student ever to enroll and get her degree from the educational institution. Siliman makes Dumaguete a rollicking campus town!

Dumaguete Touchdown
There are taxis available to get around, but the more popular means of transportation would be jeepneys and pedicabs, which are powered by a bicycle. Once in town, you can also rent a motorbike.

Dumaguete by Day
Embark on an eco-adventure tour and get up close and personal with nature. Click on www.dumagueteoutdoors.com and take your pick of the many tour packages they offer, and you will get your fill of nature and adventure.

Dumaguete by Night
People are drawn to the Boulevard by the bay as it’s lined with bars, restaurants and pubs. Top spots are Why Not and Hayahay. You will find that in terms of nightlife, the city of Dumaguete does not disappoint.

Dumaguete Hotel
Florentina Homes offers apartment-style lodgings with theme-inspired units. The charming inn is ideal for family and group travelers, delivering that winning combination of warmth and efficiency. www.florentinahomes.com

Dumaguete Local Life
Best Breakfast: Puto (sticky rice) and tsokolate at the Teves stall found in the public market.
Best Night Out: Hayahay has sumptuous seafood fare, gourmet pizza and good live music
Best Dinner: Boston Market for the grilled veggie kebabs and the seafood diavolo pasta
Best Buys: Stock up on lots of Sans Rival pastries and budbud for family and friends.
Best Souvenirs: Banig (woven mat) and bayong (woven bag) are must-buys and eco-friendly, too.
Must-do experience: Rent a motorbike and enjoy a leisurely drive around the city
Must learn: “Chada” is the generic term for “nice,” which you will use a lot here
Insider tip: The ukay-ukay here is unbelievable! Pay super cheap prices for one-of-a-kind vintage finds