Negros

NEGROS is the fourth largest island of the Philippines and is one of the many islands that comprise the Visayas, in the central part of the country. With its rugged mountain interior, unspoiled beaches, underwater coral gardens and urban grooves, Negros has the most to offer in western Visayas after Boracay.  It is divided into two provinces. To the southeastern is Negros Oriental, with its capital Dumaguete, the gateway to tourist spots and activities like dolphin-watching and swimming with turtles, one of the longest sandbars in the Philippines, trekking and swimming in a natural volcano crater lake, and majestic waterfalls. Diving is also big business in the southeastern coast, stretching from Danjugan Island around the tip to Bais. To the northwestern lies Negros Occidental and its capital is Bacolod. Bacolod has culinary treats, nearby Silay is a living museum of historic homes, and the cool mountain resorts of Mt Kanlaon are a refreshing alternative to the beach. 

Things to do

• Swim with sea turtles in Apo Island.

• Go birdwatching at Balinsasayao Twin Lakes.

• Go to Casaroro Falls in Valencia.

• Discover Mabinay Caves.

• Visit the white sandbar of Manjuyod.

• Go kayaking, snorkeling, or trekking in Danjugan Island.

How to get there

There are direct flights with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific from Manila or Cebu going to Dumaguete City. It is an hour flight from Manila and around 40-minute flight from Cebu. Ferry from Manila is around 12 hours aboard 2Go and around 7 hours from Cebu with Cokaliong Shipping Lines. From Manila to Bacolod City is 55 minutes and 30 minutes from Cebu with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific. It is an 18-hour cruise from Manila aboard 2Go.