Negros Occidental, Philippines
In the Visayas region of the Philippines you will find the beautiful province of Negros Occidental which is home to Bacolod City as well as the neighboring cities of Talisay, Sagay, Silay, and Don Salvador Benedicto among others. Rich in history, culture and all things sweet, it's easy to see why so many have fallen in love with this region of the country. Historically one of the wealthiest provinces in the Philippines' colonial past due to its position as the country's top producer of sugar, life in Negros is presently still largely dependent on the overall state of the sugar industry. When visiting Negros Occidental's capital and main hub of Bacolod, it will become evident to visitors just how much sugar plays in to the smells and tastes of the city. Long heralded as a foodie town, the delicacies and cuisine of Bacolod and Negros in general is legendary. Grilled delights like the famous inasal, unique and tasty stews like kansi and KBL (kadyos, baboy, langka), and of course the many sweet dessert offerings from Calea, Felicia's and Pendy's are only a fraction of the options you can choose from when making your way through your Ilonggo food journey. It's impossible to eat your way through in just a few days because aside from the established cafes and eateries that have been operating for years, there are always new and exciting restaurants making waves in the culinary community.
Aside from all the famous food and drinks Bacolod has to offer, there are plenty of activities available for those looking for a dose of history. Mansions once owned by sugar barons and wealthy families have been converted to museums and have been made available to the public so travelers can get an idea of how Negrense life was like in Bacolod and nearby cities of Silay and Talisay. For travelers looking for adventure, the province is also rich in picturesque mountains, hot springs, sweeping sugarcane fields, beaches and waterfalls just waiting to be explored. The closeness of all these sights are something visitors will appreciate, most of which are accessible by land in about 1-2 hours from Bacolod.
Last but not least, it must be mentioned that the Negrense people are warm and inviting to visitors. Dubbed as "the city of smiles" its not rare to see locals flashing smiles that are as sweet as their staple industry. Always helpful and eager to offer advice for your next meal or next destination, the Ilonggo locals are some of the friendliest and indeed the sweetest people you will ever meet.
Travelers looking for their next destination would be wise to visit Bacolod and the rest of beautiful Negros, but with so much to see, taste and explore, they may want to hold off buying a return flight until they've thoroughly experienced everything Sugarland has to offer. And like so many others before, It also wouldn't be a surprise to find these travelers making Bacolod their second home.
Silay
Bacolod-Silay Airport
The main airport of Negros Occidental, it’s the best take-off point for exploring the Negros region.
Ancestral Houses
Silay was considered the Paris of Negros due to its beautiful architecture. Century-old houses that showcase the lifestyle of sugar barons in the 19th century stand until now and some have been restored and converted into museums. A visit to at least one ancestral house is a "must do".
Balay ni Tana Dicang
Owned by the Lizares family, Balay ni Tana Dicang in Talisay City is one of the oldest and most well-kept ancestral houses still standing. Most of the things inside the house are original items belonging to the family. An entrance fee of Php 100 is collected upon entrance.
W https://balaytanadicang.webs.com/
Balay Negrense
This is the mostly visited Ancestral house in Silay. There is an entrance fee of 60 Pesos per person and a tour guide is assigned per group.This is definitely one of the ancestral homes worth visiting due to how well preserved the property is and how informative the tours are.
W http://www.balaynegrense.com/
El Ideal
Established in 1920, this almost-a-century-old bakeshop in Silay is still popular and always packed with people. Not just a bakery, they also serve favorite Ilonggo dishes and more. They also have racks of various pastries and cookies for last minute snacks and souvenirs. They are famous for their guapple pie and chorizo. A great place for an afternoon snack.
FB https://www.facebook.com/EL-IDEAL-Bakery-157423434580/
Punong Gary's Place
A hacienda that was converted and opened to the public and now serves food prepared by Chef Joey Benin. Better to make a visit for lunch so you can see the surroundings and walk around the different areas of the interesting property. The location is beautiful and peaceful - just take in the sights and quietness. Make sure you make a reservation because they are strict with the no walk-in policy.
IG https://www.instagram.com/punong_garysplace/
Talisay
The Ruins
Originally owned by the family of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson and Maria Braga Lacson, whats left of the mansion now stands as a remembrance of a foregone era. Today, The Ruins serves as a backdrop to many of Negros’ weddings and special events. Always popular to tourists and visitors seeking a stunning backdrop for their social media feeds. There's a cafe within the ruins that serves pastries and some refreshing beverages.