DumagueteInfo Archives

Surrounding Areas – Dumaguete Info

https://dumagueteinfo.com Thu, 17 May 2018 03:23:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.6 Mountain View Condos https://dumagueteinfo.com/expats/accommodations/mountain-view-condos/ Sat, 14 Jan 2017 06:55:37 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?page_id=8232

The Mountain View Condos are a respite from the hustle and bustle from busy Dumaguete City. Situated at 15 minutes from the city one can find comfortable accommodations and simple living here, while spending a well deserved break for 6 months in the Philippines.

Luxury Condos in Valencia

Click Image to View More Photos

  • Quiet, Country Environment

  • Open Second Floor Balconies Overlooking Pool & Mountains

  • 4.5 Km from Robinson Mall

  • One & Two Bedrooms Units Available

  • Large Spacious Units (100 Sq Meters), Built to Western Standard

  • High Quality Furnished (except TV, linens, Kitchenware)

  • Communal Swimming Pool, Patio Conversation Area

  • 2 Parking Stalls per Unit & Motorcycle Shed Available

  • Free Water & WI-FI (Back-Up Water System Available)

  • Air Conditioned Master Bedroom

  • Back-Up Emergency Power Available

  • Satellite Dish / Receiver

  • Children or Pets Are Not Allowed

  • Minimum 3 Months Lease

  • ₱ 22,000.- / Month

  • First & Last Month Deposit Required + 1 Month Security Deposit for Eventual Damages

Visit our website: Mountain View Condos

]]> Basdaku Beach Moalboal https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/basdaku-beach-moalboal/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/basdaku-beach-moalboal/#respond Thu, 02 Jul 2015 14:54:47 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?p=2778 Basdaku Beach, Moalboal:

At Basdaku Beach with friends.

Beach and Friends

I am from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental but I do love to travel and go out on adventures. So together with my friends, we went to Moalboal Cebu. Our trip last February 2015 was so memorable and I found it hard to forget my Moalboal Adventure, I will definitely go back. From Dumaguete City, we had to take several rides to reach this place. But it was all worth it. We took off around 7 am, taking a jeepney that brought us to Sibulan Port; fare is at Php 10 pesos per person. To get to the island of Cebu, we took a fast craft ferry which charges Php 60.00 per person; travel time was approximately 20 minutes. Another pedicab ride of Php 25.00 brought us to the bus terminal from where buses that ply the southern Cebu route are based. While waiting for the bus to leave we grabbed our breakfast at the food stalls which locals call “karenderias” and “turo-turo.” As soon as we finished eating our bus left and took us to Moalboal, price per person was at Php 75.00 each. The travel time was approximately 1-2 hours. Upon reaching  Moalboal bus station there were several multicabs waiting in the area. So we ask them to bring us to the Basdaku Beach Resort. The fare for the ride was Php 30 pesos per person and travel time took another 30 minutes.

Heading to Basdaku Beach.

With my travel buddies.

Basdaku Beach is open for the public but there are several other beach resorts in the area. Since we were on budget we opted for the cheaper area which only charges an entrance fee of Php 10.00 per person. The road leading to the resort was not yet fully developed since construction was still underway. We were wondering on how we could get a ride back to the bus station so we made a deal with the driver to wait for us, which he readily agreed. He even helped us to find a cottage which cost only Php 200.00.  We arrived around 10 am. When we arrived, what we saw amazed us as the place was simply beautiful.

As what I have said, the beach was very beautiful. It’s quite comparable to the famous Boracay island but the place was not so crowded and commercialized, although there are still quite a number of people in the beach, both foreign tourist and locals alike. I still call this my “not so secret paradise’ though. We immediately grabbed our monopods and cameras; it was the picture perfect spot! Along the beach there were people playing volleyball in the area or simply relaxing on the beach.

Basdaku Beach

Basdaku Beach with my bf.

Around the area small cottages line up which are all available for overnight stays. The cottage rentals range from as low as Php 1000.00 pesos for overnight night, which can host 8-10 people. We swam and frolicked in the beach for about 2 hours. Around 12 noon we got hungry so we headed again out to eat. We had a good meal at Php 300.00 for the four of us.

After lunch, we stayed for a few more hours swimming, talking and just bonding. At around 3 pm, we packed our bags and left for another destination, Kawasan falls. This is for another awesome story and adventure.

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/basdaku-beach-moalboal/feed/ 0 9.9539719 123.3816147 Apo Island: Getting There and Getting to Know It https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/apo-island-getting-getting-know/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/apo-island-getting-getting-know/#comments Fri, 26 Jun 2015 12:59:44 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?p=2909 The rainy season is in, but for everyone who has a perpetual calling for the sea, Apo Island is the perfect place to be. With its collection of coral reefs and other deep sea adventure, Apo Island is a sure haven for anyone with an insatiable need for vitamin sea.

Jump off point: Dumaguete City

DSC_2776

Malatapay bus stop

From Dumaguete City, take a bus going to Bayawan. The conductor usually asks where you want to be dropped off at, and at this point, simply tell him you want to be dropped of at the Malatapay market—be sure to make a call and have a boat reserved for you, you will be accommodated accordingly then. Within less than an hour, you will be at the Malatapay market. The public market comes to life mostly during Wednesday’s because it is their designated “market day”. On other days, however, the place is quiet except for some residents that quietly buzz through the place.

malatapay public market during regular weekdays

Malatapay Public Market

Upon arriving at the bus stop, you will be approached by a few friendly locals. They will ask if you are heading for Apo and will gladly guide you through. The walk to the small marina is short, and from there you can rent a boat to take to the island. To make sure you have a boat reserved for your use, call the numbers below:

(+63)926-3658-260

(+63)906-6735-795

(+63)927-4603-637

Ride with a smile: Malatapay Boat Service

DSC_2770

Boat rental fee: small boat (good for 3-5 persons) php 2,000.00, large boat (max 10 persons) php 3,000.00

Boat rental fee: small boat (good for 3-5 persons) php 2,000.00, large boat (max 10 persons) php 3,000.00

Since the rainy season is in, the waves are undoubtedly big. So for safety reasons, it would be most advisable to take the larger boat because it is much more sturdier than a small one. Aside from that, a coastguard keeps watch at the marina all the time, and patrols the area all the time. Regarding time, it would be best to get there as early as possible since the tide is calm during the wee hours of the morning.

Finally, we meet!

Apo Island

Apo Island

After a forty minute boat ride, you will finally be at the shores of Apo. The island is predominantly rocky, but it also has a stretch of white sand. Upon arrival, members of the barangay council will lead you to their office, and there you will need to pay their residency fee (quick note for Negros Oriental residents: be sure to bring a valid I.D., it will save you php 75.00) which is a hundred pesos. This is for the maintenance of the marine sanctuaries and other expenses used by the island.

Snorkeling equipment are available for rent at php 100.00 each

Snorkeling equipment are available for rent at php 100.00 each

The turtle sanctuary is only a few feet away from the shore. For snorkeling, it is most advisable to use a life jacket, for safety and most especially to avoid stepping on the corals. A snorkeling guide is also compulsory since he will walk (or rather swim, haha!) you through the sanctuary. The payment for a guide is php 300.00 and snorkeling equipment are also available for rent.

Scuba diving for first-timers

For scuba diving, be sure to have prepared at least php 2,800.00. This covers all the equipment needed for scuba diving, and a guide that will teach you the fundamentals.

Food

There are no fancy restaurants on the island, so it would be best to bring your own food.

The locals, and life in Apo

The Rock

The Rock

A local was asked why it was called _Apo. _The reply was short but brief, because the bisaya word _Apo literally translates to grandchildren_ in English. The island is said to have been named that way because there are many children, a thousand residents who happened to be someone’s apo before.

Apo Island is also well-known for its rocky components, unlike most islands that are rimmed with fine, white sand. One prominent rock formation is called Bolu-arte. This massive rock structure rises from the sea, and daredevils climb onto it and jump into the cool, deep water.

warm smiles on a sunny day

warm smiles on a sunny day

Calm, peaceful, and warm. Just as Apo island itself, the locals are also the same. They are very hospitable, and will help you with anything if you ask. When walking around the small village, people will greet you with a smile and a warm welcome. Some will even try to start a conversation with tourists, always wanting to know more about what cannot be found on the island. Eager, and gentle. These are the kind people of Apo.

if you're looking for a sign to visit Apo, this is it.

If you’re looking for a sign to visit Apo, this is it.

Aside from the sea and marine sanctuaries, Apo also has a few undiscovered secrets. If you get the chance, or if you still have the energy (especially after swimming with the sea turtles), take a walk around the village. The lighthouse is a thirty-minute walk, but offers a great view of the ocean.

DSC_2659

For a boatride around the entire island, an additional php 500.00 will be charged. This is for fuel. The last trip back to Malatapay is at 3:3o PM, so always be early when going to Apo.

For additional information about lodging and diving, click here.

Don’t forget to bring a bottle of sunblock and most importanly, enjoy!

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/apo-island-getting-getting-know/feed/ 2 9.0795527 123.2706375 Aguinid Falls – Samboan Cebu https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/aguinid-falls-samboan-cebu/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/aguinid-falls-samboan-cebu/#respond Thu, 18 Jun 2015 13:22:13 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?p=2811 Aguinid Falls:

Aguinid Falls - Samboan, Cebu

It is always nice to wander off from your comfort zone. For a resident of Dumaguete like me, I have been to several tourists spot around the province, thus the idea to cross our way to Cebu Island enticed me again. Last May 23, I and my travel buddies decided to have another trip in Cebu. This time, my brother came along with us. All together, we took off as early as six in the morning taking the Sibulan-Cebu route via fast craft.

This trip, we went to Aguinid falls, one of Cebu’s hidden getaways, a best kept secret for now. Let me share to you the highlights of our trip. Before we continued on to Samboan where Aguinid Falls is, we had a quick stop over at Pebbles Beach Resort, a stone’s throw away from the port area of Santander Cebu. We took a swim for an hour and decided to continue with our trip to the amazing falls. A tricycle driver offered to bring us to Samboan, paying him Php 30.00 per passenger. The travel time from the port was about 20-30 minutes.

Aguinid Falls, Samboan, Cebu

Aguinid Falls – Level Zero

We got to Barangay Tangbo, where Aguinid falls is located. The entrance to go to the falls is 20 pesos. Aguinid falls is to be found 200 meters from the national highway. Most of the locals of Samboan often have their picnics by the falls considering its accessibility.

Aguinid Falls, Samboan, Cebu

Aguinid Level 1-5

Aguinid Falls is composed of five different levels along the Tangbo River, with each level having a unique tumble of water. One can only reach the other falls by passing and climbing the limestone paths of the flowing waters up to the highest level. There were 5 levels of waterfalls that you climb up with a guide. There are foot holes in the rock face so part of the experience actually involves climbing up the falls. The rocks are not very slimy so I felt quite safe. There is also an opportunity to jump off a waterfall.

For those who would want to go out on an adventure to Aguinid Falls, there are some few tips and reminders which may be useful: Food is not allowed near the water falls, so do not bring your food up there. Instead, a designated eating area is located on Level 0. And there are also a number of food stalls locally known as “carenderias” at the site. I am pretty sure adventurers at heart will surely enjoy this place, I for one could personally consider this a haven. But, for families with young kids, I do not suggest this place since some areas are too extreme for the young ones. Be prepared to get extremely wet so better pack in a few extra clothes.   Local guides are so helpful so you never worry about getting around. You can’t bring anything in the falls, but there is a baggage deposit area where you deposit your things.

For awesome photo shoots and photo ops, make sure to bring your waterproof cameras or ask the guide to bring your phone which would be placed inside a zip locked bag. I am pretty sure you will have lots and lots of incredible photos with awesome views.

Aguinid Falls - Samboan, Cebu

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/aguinid-falls-samboan-cebu/feed/ 0 9.5044289 123.3325195 Bacong, Negros Oriental https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/sightseeing-dumaguete-suburbs/bacong-negros-oriental/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/sightseeing-dumaguete-suburbs/bacong-negros-oriental/#respond Mon, 15 Jun 2015 22:08:34 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?page_id=2845 Park in Bacong, Negros Oriental

Park in Bacong

A 10 minute ride south from the city of Dumaguete lies Bacong. Considered the smallest town in the province of Negros Oriental, yet this town has a lot to offer, tourism wise. It is accessible by private vehicles, tricycles and jeepneys or the bigger Ceres buses that ply the south bound route. Founded in 1801, this is the hometown of the revolutionary Filipino hero Pantaleon Villegas, better known as Leon Kilat. This is why the Leon Kilat Monument stands majestic in the town park, a landmark of the town. The park where in the Leon Kilat Monument stands is one of the cleaner spots in the town and where you will find many people lounging and enjoying the day with family and friends. The Bacong people were noted for their bravery from the time of the marauding days of Moro Pirates. Locals would repulse them with their unforgettable cry “stand up, stand up and fight!” The town’s name comes from the local dialect word “Bacon”, which means stand up.

Monument placard in Bacong

Leon Kilat Monument

Going around town, there are several spots to visit. Bacong could boast about the church of San Augustine. This church has the tallest belfry in the all of Negros Oriental, the oldest altar with gold-leafing and painted friezes, and a pipe organ from Zaragoza, Spain, installed in 1898 shortly before the revolution against Spain broke out in Negros Oriental. The only other pipe organ of similar provenance is in Bohol. With its reasonably well-preserved complex including churchyard and convent (ca 1850), San Agustin of Bacong is one of the 26 colonial churches all over the country selected for restoration by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

San Augustine Church - Bacong

San Augustine Church in Bacong

Another place to visit is the Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage. This is a factory that is open to the public on weekdays where foreign and local tourists can go and visit to see export quality stone craft being manufactured. There are handicrafts that are made by the locals here which tourist can buy as Philippine souvenirs.

Known for its beaches, you may find some beach resorts and cottages along the coastline wherein you can do a picnic, swim and simply relax.  There is also a resort which you should not miss in this town: Bambulo Resort.

One of the town’s bigger barangays, San Miguel, marks its local fiesta with a unique Sinulog de San Miguel, where the archangel and his heavenly army are depicted battling the forces of evil. You should expect a large crowd during this Fiesta. Try to be here during this fiesta to experience not only Filipino cuisine but their hospitality, one of our traits we Filipinos are renowned for.

Other things to do while in Bacong:

  1. Have swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at the beach.

  2. Have a trip with friends and hang out at the park with friends.

  3. Do some sightseeing.

  4. Do pictorials in the place.

  5. Shopping in the public market for the day’s fresh catch, fruits and vegetables.

Talisay Beach - Bacong

Bacong Talisay Beach

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/sightseeing-dumaguete-suburbs/bacong-negros-oriental/feed/ 0 9.2474976 123.2951431 Dauin Marine Sanctuaries https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/sightseeing-dumaguete-suburbs/dauin-marine-sanctuaries/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/sightseeing-dumaguete-suburbs/dauin-marine-sanctuaries/#comments Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:34:13 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?page_id=2841 Marine Sanctuaries in Dauin, Negros Oriental

Dauin Marine Sanctuaries

Dauin, a fourth class municipality in the province of Negros Oriental, Philippines is about 10-20 minutes travel from Dumaguete City. For those taking the public transport, the jeepney terminal to Dauin is near Robinson’s Place Dumaguete. The jeepneys usually park near the gas station. Fare is Php13.00. Inform the driver you are getting off at the corner leading to the Marine Sanctuary. It’s a couple of blocks away or a good 4-5 minutes brisk walk.

Lunch in Dauin

My dad and my boyfriend preparing lunch

Dauin has a lot of popular resorts and a few restaurants. The coast of Dauin offers scuba dive sites with both coral reef and muck dive opportunities. The municipality has established several sanctuaries where fishing and boating is absolutely prohibited. This includes sites such as Mainit sanctuary, Luca sanctuary, Dauin sanctuary and Masaplod sanctuary. These sites are well preserved and offer a huge variety and quantity of aquatic life forms.

Beach in Dauin

Ready for snorkeling

At the marine sanctuary, you will find the Romana Alar Resort ages for rent but to get inside the vicinity, you need to pay P10.00. Everyone can have picnics anytime of the week. This is now the favorite picnic venue of most locals thus, during weekends and holidays, this place can be a busy place. The place offers snorkeling activities and it is very easy to rent snorkels set so one may do snorkeling in the sanctuary area. This could be a photographer’s haven for underwater photography. For some, they just relax and unwind in the beach area although one may opt to go swimming as well as play sports along the coastline. These areas are frequented by foreign tourists as well as locals. The locals from Dauin have preserved these marine sanctuaries very well. The sight underneath the Marine Sanctuary is breath taking and it is never a disappointment to explore these areas.

The Marine Sanctuary starts a few meters from the shore and remains fairly shallow for about 20-50 meters before it slopes down into the deep. It is best to start snorkeling in the mid-morning until lunch, as the water gets shallower towards the afternoon. You can expecting to see parrot fish, clown fish, anemone fish, neon damsels, hump-head banner fish, some baby black tip sharks, boulder coral, giant lobe and whorl bowl corals at the center. It’s amazing how you can see fishes without diving far. Even if you are not a professional diver you can rent snorkeling gear to see all this aquatic life. You are allowed to bring food for the fishes like bread so that they would gather in your area and have a view of the underwater sea creatures up close.

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/sightseeing-dumaguete-suburbs/dauin-marine-sanctuaries/feed/ 1 9.1906919 123.2663040 Weekend Getaway: White Sand Bar, Manjuyod https://dumagueteinfo.com/sightseeing/weekend-getaway-white-sand-bar-manjuyod/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/sightseeing/weekend-getaway-white-sand-bar-manjuyod/#comments Sun, 14 Jun 2015 15:53:49 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?p=2805 Unlike metropolitan cities, Dumaguete is more relaxed, and life here moves at a steady, calm pace. However, the City of Gentle People is not spared from the hustle and bustle of an urban town. Days can be stressful, and during times like these, the perfect way to wind down is a visit to the beautiful white sand bar in Manjuyod.

look at that color! the sand bar "vanishes" during high tide

Look at that color!

The best time to get the sand bar would be morning so the shoreline is visible. During low tide, the shore is submerged in clear sea water. But whether it be high or low tide, the pristine beauty of the cerulean water and fine, white sand persist to be seen nonetheless. For avid swimmers and divers, this is a perfect spot for an open water swim since the water is deep (really deep) and cool. The whole stretch of white sand is also covered in starfish, so be careful about where you step!

2015-06-12 08.35.05 1

A landscape devoid of shady palm trees, but a stunning landscape nonetheless

Since most beaches near Dumaguete have dark sand, Manjuyod’s White Sand Bar is definitely a tropical gem. Be sure to bring a lot of sun block and a large floppy hat, and be prepared for a lot of sun, too.

this plaque is a solid proof of great service

This plaque is a solid proof of great service.

From the tourism office to the beach, everyone makes sure you will feel comfortable and well taken care of. The local staff are very hospitable and accommodating. If you have a cottage reserved for you, they will set everything up to your liking, and will clean up after your use.

forget those stacks of papers on your office table and unwind with this view, you deserve it

Forget those stacks of papers on your office table and unwind with this view, you deserve it.

Even for just half a day, the serene waters will give you a sense of tranquility that only nature can deliver. The white sand bar, gorgeous shades of blue, and surrounding mountains seem as if they were placed strategically to provide a spectacular view.

no cottage? no problem.

No cottage? No problem.

There are only four cottages available for use as of the moment, and with teeming tourists making reservations, it can be quite difficult to get one. Not to worry, though. The boats are decked on shore to serve as your make-shift cottage, and it even comes with a cozy hammock! If you aren’t fond of swimming, you can simply lay back and read a book, or listen to music, whatever floats your boat (Get it?).

So whenever the week’s toil takes its toll on you, you know where to go. The white sand bar (and locals) of Manjuyod will welcome you with arms wide open.

Here’s the link for more details about diving, whale watching, and how to get there. Enjoy!

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/sightseeing/weekend-getaway-white-sand-bar-manjuyod/feed/ 1 9.6122589 123.1608582 Habhaban Cave and Underground Waterfalls – Bayawan City https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/habhaban-cave-waterfalls/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/habhaban-cave-waterfalls/#comments Wed, 10 Jun 2015 00:19:07 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?p=2703 Habhaban Cave and Underground Waterfalls

Habhaban Cave and Underground Waterfalls - Bayawan City, Negros Oriental

I just want to share with you my experience in exploring a very big cave. I had so much fun with my family. We went to Bayawan City, a nearby town here in Dumaguete City Philippines.

The idea of walking kilometers uphill and crawling through small cracks, crevices and in neck deep waters inside a pitch-dark cave was certainly not on my bucket list. Yet, as we were enjoying our cocktails by the beautiful Pandan Beach in Bayawan last Holy Thursday our gracious host, Tita Lilian, told our group that she has contacted the City Tourism Office to spearhead an activity for us the following day. A day trip to waterfalls would be fine, but caving? I felt my hair stand as images in my mind flashed insects, bats, and rats and perhaps snakes that could inhabit the cave, and it completely terrified me. I was silent during the deliberation but spelunking thrilled the group. So that was it, it was agreed, 7 am on Good Friday we will head off to Habhaban Cave together with the Search and Rescue Team of the city.

Tour in Habhaban Cave

Our group at Habhaban Cave

Habhaban Cave is settled about two kilometers from Barangay Malabugas in Bayawan. The challenging trip to get to the cave is certainly not for the fainthearted. We huffed, and we puffed, trekking uphill was not an easy feat! Climbing up took forever and it was quite dangerous too as we had to climb over slippery rocks and water while we only had weeds and weak branches to hold on to on our way up. Half an hour later, we reached the mouth of the cave.

First challenge was to get inside. One must be guided by the Search and Rescue team men to get through a small crevice, floating head up and that was a stretch of about five meters. I almost decided to stay outside with our companions who were adamant on getting inside but it took the better of me to be persuaded. The cave was pitch dark and we only had flashlights to illuminate our way but what greeted us was an awe-inspiring, magnificent creation of God! It was simply beautiful! I had no regrets and quickly, I overcame my fear.

Photos of Habhaban Cave

Habhaban Cave

Our guides led us inside and about 45 minutes of walking and wading through waters, we reached another magnificent spot- subterranean 30 ft. high waterfalls. This is considered a landmark that is not found elsewhere in the island of Negros or perhaps the rest of the Philippines, a beautiful wonder indeed! That made my short Holy Week quite enjoyable and very unforgettable. Despite the darkness and the cold water. I was happy because I got to experience one of the most famous caves here in our Province. And at the same time, I had the chance to spend it with my family. So, if you are venturesome, pack your stuff and discover Habhaban Cave in Bayawan, Negros Oriental!


**
More about Habhaban Cave:** Habhaban Cave and Underwater Waterfalls is located in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental. To get to Bayawan City from Manila, one must take an inbound flight to Dumaguete City which is approximately one hour. From Cebu, it is 30 minutes via plane to Dumaguete or one can take a Ceres Bus which will be a six to eight hour ride. From Dumaguete City you can reach Bayawan via Ceres Bus or by vans-for-hire, both leaving on one hour intervals. The drive between Dumaguete and Bayawan will take about 2 hours.

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/tourist-info/habhaban-cave-waterfalls/feed/ 2 9.3836088 122.7692108 Dumaguete Forums https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/forums/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/forums/#respond Mon, 18 May 2015 17:23:25 +0000 https://dumagueteinfo.com/?page_id=2501 Redirecting you to our forums.
Click Here if you do not want to wait.]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/dumaguete-city/forums/feed/ 0 Zamboanguita: Zoo Paradise of the World https://dumagueteinfo.com/other-destinations/negros-oriental-sightseeing/zoo-paradise-of-the-world-zamboanguita/ https://dumagueteinfo.com/other-destinations/negros-oriental-sightseeing/zoo-paradise-of-the-world-zamboanguita/#respond Sun, 05 Oct 2014 15:23:42 +0000 http://dumagueteinfo.com/?page_id=678 The Zoo Paradise of the world is situated in Barangay Salngan in the town of Zamboangita, Negros Oriental. It was spearheaded by the late Eleuterio Tropa, a former Catholic priest who formed his own religious sect cum environmentalist group who called themselves “The Lamplighters”.

The mission and motto of their organization is to “love one another and love nature”. All members were once required to don black shirts paired with red and green striped pants. Cutting of hair was prohibited for both men and women and nobody was allowed to wear slippers. They all actually walked around barefoot even when they visited the city, catching the attention of many.

The zoo, also called Spaceship 2000 ET is an extensive ipil-ipil forested area enclosed by a perimeter fence. Inside you can find birds of varied species and zoo animals such as a snake, a tiger, crocodile and some monkeys. Members of the sect walk around freely to feed and pet the animals.

Zoo Paradise of the World Founder

Father Tropa was an active environmentalist with the good of everybody always on top of his concerns. He led a very simple life with only the basic amenities with hardly ever a room for luxuries. Father Tropa was also a staunch believer in the healing properties of nature such that he and his members concocted herbal medicines to treat whatever ailments they suffered from. The Zoo Paradise of the World was his personal mission. It is a unique manifestation of the life that he had chosen to live – one that was far from civilization.

When Father Tropa died in the year 1993, all of his personal effects and memorabilia became added an element of interest in the zoo. Also preserved are stuffed wild animals that are larger than life. The zoo has a small shop where you can find handmade odds and ends that make for souvenir items. At present, the surviving relatives of Father Tropa have taken on the operations of the zoo and have continued to uphold the legacy that he has left behind.

How to get to Zamboanguite Zoo Paradise of the World

Today the Zoo Paradise remains to be an ideal site for an excursion. Students from elementary schools arriving in buses are some of the most frequent visitors. With a very low entrance cost, one is free to view and enjoy the collection of live animals. A zoo keeper may also be requested to accompany the tour. Children are even encouraged to feed harmless animals like the monkeys and fishes. It takes around 30 minutes to get to the zoo from Dumaguete City. Take the

]]> https://dumagueteinfo.com/other-destinations/negros-oriental-sightseeing/zoo-paradise-of-the-world-zamboanguita/feed/ 0