We all travel for a variety of reasons, including the desire to meet new people, to escape to a new culture, or just to take a deep breath of fresh air. Yet, there is something about the city of Dumaguete that makes guests, whether they are tourists, expats, or visitors, feel as though they have discovered the ideal location for a soulful relaxation.
Dumaguete City, endearingly known as the “City of Gentle People,” is more than just a gateway to beautiful beaches and exciting scuba diving destinations. It’s the perfect spot to stroll around. Having been rated the greatest destination to retire to in Forbes Magazine and the Philippine Retirement Authority, it offers a plethora of perks for those who wish to stay long term. With the Bohol Sea at its doorstep and the majestic Cuernos Mountains in the background, it is a charming home that’s just a 30-minute ferry ride from the island of Cebu’s Liloan port. From the get go, Dumaguete is easily one of the most blessed abode readily accessible via land, sea, and air travel.
Locals say that the best way to explore the city is to go back in time. Dumaguete has a wealth of historical significance that is mostly unknown. Must-sees on any trip here is to include the city’s famous universities and an ancient stone church that has seen much of the city’s history. As a university town and a hotspot for many languages, Dumaguete gives that magnetizing air of lovely main settings in movies that brims with culture. From art galleries, libraries, museums, festivals and a multinational menu of tasty foods – Dumaguetenos are wonderfully spoiled. The best thing of all, these sites are all within walking distance with the city’s pedestrian-friendly streets or you can opt for the “pedicab” experience that has been powering the city’s transportation.
Dumaguete City is a terrific spot to enjoy the convenience of urban development in a laid-back, and calm environment. With a number of reputable hospitals, branches of national banks, retail complexes, restaurants, coffee shops, natural parks, and even secret cafes – you’ll never run out of things to do. To top it off, the city of gentle people is also gentle on the budget so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy what the city has to offer.
It is a City with loads of stories to share. I can build a ten-page list of its historical attractions including the Rizal Boulevard, Bell tower and Cathedral, and the eerily gorgeous Silliman Hall. But the ultimate appeal of Dumaguete City that leaves us wanting to come back are the people themselves. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, a foreigner or a Filipino from the neighboring islands, the people here will make you feel at home with their 24/7 smiles. Dumaguete’s reputation as “The City of Gentle People” is well-deserved. Locals here are as cheerful as they are warm and welcoming. Nearly everyone in this beautiful city can communicate fluently in English and is happy to do so. When you visit, don’t be hesitant to strike up a conversation with the person sitting at the other bench, the barista in coffee shops, or the police officer at the boulevard. After all, the beauty about traveling is meeting new people as you get to experience Dumaguete through their tales.
