Negros Travel Guide


   
1 Bacolod City Tour - Visit The Ruins, Negros Museum, and San Sebastian Cathedral
2 Silay City Tour - Visit Balay Negrense Museum, Silay Heritage Houses, and Hofileña Ancestral House
3 Sipalay Beach Experience - Day trip to Tinagong Dagat, Sugar Beach, and Punta Ballo Beach
4 Mambukal Nature Park - Hike to the Seven Waterfalls or take a dip in the hot springs
5 Mount Kanlaon Adventure - Hike the summit or explore the rainforest trails
6 Food Tour - Visit Bacolod’s Manokan Country, 18th Street Palapala, and Merci Pasalubong Center
7 Depart from Negros

Food and Drink Scene of Negros

Must-Try Dishes

  • Inasal - This is grilled chicken marinated in a special mixture of vinegar, calamansi, and spices. It is usually served with garlic rice, dipping sauce, and soy sauce with calamansi on the side.
  • Batchoy - A hearty noodle soup made with pork organs, noodles, and garnished with chicharon.
  • Guapple Pie - A dessert pie made from guava and apple with a buttery crust.

Local Beverages

  • Muscovado Sugar Cane Juice - A refreshing drink made from freshly squeezed sugarcane juice with muscovado sugar added.
  • Cerveza Negrense - A local beer made from sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Negros: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some recommended accommodations in Negros:

  • L’Fisher Hotel Bacolod - This 4-star hotel is located in Bacolod City and offers luxurious rooms and suites with views of the city and the sea.
  • Campuestohan Highland Resort - This resort in Talisay City offers a variety of accommodation options, from glamping tents to treehouses to villas.
  • Handumanan Guesthouse - This guesthouse in Silay City is located in a restored heritage house and offers comfortable rooms with antique furniture.

What to Buy in Negros: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Muscovado Sugar - This unrefined brown sugar is a staple ingredient in Negros cuisine.
  • Piaya - A sweet pastry filled with muscovado sugar and sesame seed.
  • Tinalak - A traditional cloth woven by the T’boli tribe in Mindanao.

Local Culture and Customs of Negros

  • MassKara Festival - Bacolod’s famous festival is celebrated every third weekend of October and is a colorful celebration of the city’s resilience and optimism.
  • Respect for Elders - Negrenses are known to be respectful to their elders, and it is customary to ask for their blessings before leaving their homes or gatherings.

Best Time to Visit Negros

The best time to visit Negros is during the dry season, which starts from November to April. The weather is sunny and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach trips.

Do’s and Don’ts of Negros

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Engage in conversation with locals, who are friendly and welcoming.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious places and rituals.
  • Litter or damage the natural attractions.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Negros

Negros is generally a safe place, but visitors should take the necessary precautions like being aware of their surroundings and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Negros

Visitors should drink bottled or boiled water to avoid water-borne illnesses. Dengue fever is prevalent in the Philippines, so wearing mosquito repellent and protective clothing is advised.

Getting to Negros: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Negros

  • Bacolod-Silay Airport - Located in Silay City, this airport serves flights to and from Manila, Cebu, and other domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Negros

  • Bacolod Ceres North Terminal - This bus station in Bacolod City serves destinations around Negros and other places in the Visayas region.

Other Options

  • Ferry - Several ferry companies serve destinations between Negros and other islands in the Philippines.

How to Get Around in Negros

  • Public Transportation - Jeepneys, tricycles, and buses are the primary modes of public transportation in Negros.
  • Private Transportation - Car rentals and motorcycle rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore Negros at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Negros: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cebu - A quick ferry ride away is the bustling island of Cebu, known for its historical sites and pristine beaches.
  • Bohol - Another nearby island destination known for its chocolate hills, tarsiers, and beautiful beaches.
  • Siquijor - An island province known for its mystical charm and witchcraft traditions.

Conclusion

Negros is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Its vibrant culture, scenic attractions, and delicious cuisine make it the perfect destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of the Philippines. Plan your trip to Negros now and discover its many wonders!