A relaxing dining experience at LANAI by Fresh Start

Fresh Start’s Lanai restaurant opened its doors to the public on December 8, 2021, and although I wasn’t able to visit on that day, I took the opportunity to meet up with a friend during the weekend, a few days after it welcomed customers to its quaint dining place. LANAI by Fresh Start is a …

Habitat for Humanity Philippines’ projects in Negros Occidental

Having worked with non-profits during my career, I want to dedicate some space here in my site for the good works they are doing, especially when it’s something that is happening in my province. One case in particular is Habitat for Humanity Philippines’ (HFHP) efforts in Negros Occidental to build homes for families in need. …

Living La Dolce Vita in Negros Occidental

A trip to Negros Occidental can be summed up in one word: Manamit! It means yummy, flavorful, appetizing, good taste, delicious and so much more. But it does not only refer to its food. It is how life in this part of the country is all about. La Dolce Vita or the sweet life is …

AirAsia’s new route: Manila-Bacolod

There are more reasons to fly and visit Bacolod City and the various towns and cities in the province of Negros Occidental as AirAsia, the world’s best low-cost airline, launched its daily flights between Manila and Bacolod. The maiden flight was held during the highlight of the 40th MassKara Festival of the City of Smiles. …

First-time in the Balsa River Cruise and Floating Restaurant

A sumptuous lunch. Beautiful scenery. Fresh air. Lovely birds. All these you can enjoy at the Balsa River Cruise and Floating Restaurant right after the Malabong Bridge in Ilog, the southern part of Negros Occidental in the Philippines. The river cruise started only recently, so if you want to try it out yourself and visit …

Negros Occidental, Philippines

Negros Occidental: Ready for the World

As a single entity out of the over 3 million population in the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines, it may seem that there’s nothing much or very little I can do that can make a difference for my home province. But the proverbial pen is mighty indeed because the stories I have shared, whether they …

Sipalay

Places to visit in Negros Occidental

I’ve said this time and again. The good thing about living in an archipelago, with over 7,000 islands at that, is that the beach can be just a few kilometers away. But the hot season can often be gruelling in this side of the globe. The Philippines is in the tropics and the sun is almost out …

First-time in Danjugan Island

First things first. Danjugan Island is not a resort. Let’s get that elephant off the room so we can go straight to describing what this lush beauty is all about. Located in Negros Occidental, Philippines, Danjugan Island has caught the eye of travelers and environmental advocates. Home to almost a thousand animal species, Danjugan Island …

The Festivals of Negros Occidental: a fusion of color

Negros Occidental, a province located in the Philippines, is renowned for its vibrant and diverse festivals that offer a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and traditions of its people. These festivals serve as colorful showcases of Negros Occidental’s unique identity, captivating locals and visitors alike with their exuberant celebrations, captivating performances, and profound …

Seda Capitol Central, Bacolod Facade

Seda Capitol Central: A New Hotel in Bacolod City

Bacolod is seeing the rise of a new hotel in its locality. With the promising financial development in Western Visayas, Seda hotels, homegrown brand of AyalaLand Hotels and Resorts, is opening its 7th property in the Philippines in the City of Smiles — Seda Capitol Central. Business travelers will have something new to look forward …

Bones & Belly Restaurant

Bones and Belly: Breakfast till Dinner in Bacolod

You’re a traveler and you are arriving in Bacolod during the morning on an early day, or you are a local who needs to have a breakfast meeting, or you are simply looking for a great place to have a morning meal in the city. Despite the many restaurants in Bacolod, finding a decent place …

Mudpack Festival

Fun Mudpack Festival 2017 in Mambukal Resort

Mambukal Mountain Resort in Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental, Philippines is one of the gateways to Mt. Kanlaon and has been a favorite destination of Negrenses and travelers since the first half of the 20th century (READ: First-time in Mambukal Mountain Resort). Each year, on the 3rd week of June, Mambukal celebrates the Mudpack Festival. …

Jitaku Private Resort

Jitaku Private Resort: In the Heart of Bacolod

Who would have thought that right at the heart of the city of Bacolod, there is a private resort where you can have a family reunion or gathering with friends in the confines of a home setting? Jitaku Private Resort is just along 25th Calamba St. in Capitol Subdivision, right behind the ABS-CBN station, a …

Chef Carmine Restaurant

A Taste of Italy at Chef Carmine Restaurant

The province of Negros Occidental in the Philippines is a food lover’s haven. And tucked in the City of Talisay is a restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine. In this area, it’s the closest one can get to the true taste of Italy because Chef Carmine Restaurant is owned and operated by Chef Carmine Pece, …

Bacolod City Government Center

First-time Travel Guide: Bacolod City

A Travel Guide for First-time Travelers to Bacolod Bacolod City (10° 40′ 12″ N, 122° 57′ 0″ E), known as the “City of Smiles”, is the capital of the province of Negros Occidental, which composes one half of Negros Island. It is located in the Visayas part of the Philippines, an archipelago in Southeast Asia with 7,107 islands. This city has a …