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From Wikitravel

Bacolod [1] is the capital city of the province of Negros Occidental. Visit for the warm atmosphere, climate-wise and people-wise, the city's catch phrase is "City of Smiles", and also for beaches, great food and interesting history.

[edit] Districts

Bacolod city contains of Barangays however it can be also classified into districts. The most important district of all is the Downtown district also known as Central Business District and Bacolod City-proper, it is the site where most of the city's attractions are like the Public Plaza, San Sebastian Cathedral, Negros Museum, Negros Provincial Capitol Building and Lagoon etc., the city proper contains over 41 barangays. Singcang was the home of the former Bacolod Airport and this is also where the Goldenfields Commercial complex. Estefania is home to Bacolod's new city hall while nearby Alijis is where Bacolod Memorial park and St. Jude Thaddeus church is located, Punta Taytay is where Villarosa beach is located, Granada is where the first settlement of Bacolod was founded, other districts include Taculing, Banago, Bata, Granada, Alingalan etc.

[edit] Understand

[edit] History

[edit] Early times

The Name Bacolod The name Bacolod was derived from the Hiligaynon word, "Buklod" meaning stonehill, as the city was first set up on a stonehill. Due to Moro (Muslim) raids it was then transferred to the shoreline. The original town is now called "Daan-Banwa" meaning Old Town.

The settlement was set up by Malayan people from the "Taga-Ilog" tribe.Later on the Moros attacked early one morning and within a few hours many people had been killed, women raped and houses torn down or burnt. The people then decided to move a little farther from the place down to the shore. The stonehill became a ghost town.

[edit] Spanish era

Bacolod was made the provincial capital of Negros in 1894. It was the focal point of conflict between the Spanish and the Negrenses in 1898. The commanding officer of the Spanish forces; Col. Isidro de Castro, surrendered to the Filipino forces, and the signing of the Act of Capitulation was carried out at the house of Don Eusebio Luzuriaga which once stood in front of the City Hall.

[edit] American rule

On March 1899, American forces, led by Colonel James G. Smith, occupied Bacolod. During American Rule, The Rizal Institute was set up in the city in 1903 providing education to the Bacolodnons. La Consolacion College was then set up on 1919 as a private school. The City of Bacolod was officially created on June 18, 1938. Inclement weather meant that the official inauguration had to be postponed twice. It was finally held on October 19, 1938. Bacolod City was occupied by the Japanese forces on May 21, 1942. It was liberated by the American forces on May 29, 1945.

[edit] Modern era

The small settlement grew and emerged as an urbanized city with a population now around 500,000 and named as one of the two Cleaniest and Greenest Highly Urbanized Cities in the Philippines.

[edit] Climate

Climate	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High(°C)	30	31	32	33	33	32	31	30	31	30	30	30
Low(°C)	21	22	22	24	25	25	24	23	23	23	23	22
Precipitation (cm)	20	10	15	30	122	257	401	363	340	195	134	65

There are two pronounced seasons in Bacolod; Wet and Dry seasons. Wet Season or the Rainy Season starts from May and continues until January, with heavy rainfall during August and September. The Dry Season starts on February and ends in April, with April being the warmest month of the year while December is the coldest.

[edit] Talk

The majority of the people of Negros speak Hiligaynon or Illongo as their first language as it is the predominant language in the province of Negros Occidental, while there are some who can speak Cebuano and Kinaray-a. Tagalog is also understood as well as English. For visitors, communicating with the people wouldn't be that difficult. The Chinese form a minor part of the population who most speak Minnan or Hokkien with a knowledge of Mandarin.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

Bacolod is located 45 minutes South of Manila by plane and 30 minutes west of Cebu. Commercial flights are available daily from Manila and Cebu. If flying in to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila you will have to change planes for the 45 minute hop to Bacolod. You will land at the new Bacolod-Silay Airport(ICAO: BCD | IATA: RPVB)[2], which is of international standard. There are buses provided by the airport to the city proper. Contact airport inquiries for details on arrival. If you land from overseas at Mactan-Cebu International Airport you can use Cebu Pacific or PAL Express to Bacolod. Philippine Airlines[3], PAL Express[4], Cebu Pacific[5] and Zest Air[6] serve connections to and from Manila and Cebu. On departing Bacolod, you should pay a terminal fee of ₱200.

The new Bacolod-Silay International airport witnessed the arrival of a charter flight from Kazakhstan on January 2, 2009. This was the first international flight to land in the airport. The Airport plans further expansion to handle more flights, both international and domestic and either cargo or passenger flights.

[edit] By bus

Getting to Bacolod by bus from elsewhere in the province is smooth and easy as there is little chance of congestion on the roads. Arriving by bus from other provinces is also possible; you can use the so called RoRo which means Roll-on and Roll-off. Note: During Holy Week, Christmas and New Year, often buses are cramped, delayed and overloaded it's advisable to avoid traveling by bus during the Holy week and the Christmas season.

• Ceres Liner, Ceres Rd., Barangay Mansilingan, ☎ Main office:+63-34-4460681/4460686, North Terminal:+63-34-4334993, South Terminal:+63-34-4342387 (fax: +63-34-4460636). Provides RoRo services and provides daily services to and from Escalante, San Carlos, Hinoba-an, Don Salvador Benedicto, Canlaon, Culipapa, Binalbagan, Toledo City, Zamboanga City, Cebu City, Dumaguete, Kabankalan, Cadiz, they have 2 terminals in Bacolod, South and North Terminal. Trips within the Negros island costs from about ₱80-₱300 depending on the distance of your destination, trips outside Negros Island using the RoRo service costs from ₱250-₱400..  edit

[edit] By boat

Bacolod Seaport serves inter-regional trips from major destinations of Manila and Iloilo. Iloilo seaport is just 45 minutes from Bacolod and is one of the easiest to access because every hour there's a trip.

• Ocean Jet, (marketing@oceanjet.net), [7]. Economy Class: Single ₱275.00 ; Business Class: Single ₱375.00. Prices and Schedules might change subject to prior notice..  edit
• Weesam Express, [8].  edit
• Supercat, [9].  edit

Puerto Princesa City, Cagayan De Oro City, General Santos City, Dipolog City, Manila, Zamboanga City, Butuan City, Iligan City, Ozamiz City, and Surigao City routes are available. SuperFerry [10] and Negros Navigation[11] serve routes to and from these cities.

[edit] Get around

Transportation within the city and to adjacent towns is by taxi or jeepney (local equivalent of a bus). Bus liners as well as rental cars are also available for travel.

[edit] By Jeepney

Jeepneys were originally based on US military jeeps that were converted into public transport. This is the fastest and cheapest mode of transportation in the Philippines, an equivalent of the bus. Fares ranges from ₱7-₱8. Most of the Jeepney routes travel to and from Downtown Bacolod. Senior Citizens and Students (Children/Teenagers) can ask for a discount.

[edit] By Car

Getting around the city by private car or taxi is quick and affordable. There are no problems with traffic jams at all because of the good road layout of the city. Around Bacolod the taxis have a flagdown rate of ₱30 and ₱2.50 for every 300 meters thereafter. Filipinos usually give the change as a tip but it is not mandatory, if the meter states ₱87.50, they typically give the entire 100 bucks.Bee Gees, ☎ +63-344461675.  editFaith Taxi, ☎ +63-344410702.  editSan Nicholas Taxi Services, ☎ +63-344343834.  edit are some taxi companies that offer services. Nyla Rent-A-Car, ☎ (63)34-4331049.  editMeca Rent-A-Car, ☎ +63-344440795.  edit are two rent-a-car companies available in the city.

[edit] Other modes of transport

Tricycles (Rickshaw): Another alternative to taxis, rickshaws in the city carry no more than 5 passengers and are affordable.

[edit][add listing] See

[edit] Historical Attractions and Churches

There are a number of historical attractions in Bacolod showing the history of the city and the Province of Negros Occidental. In particular, churches are a big part of life for a Filipino and all have historical, spiritual and religious meaning.

• Barangay sang Virgen Chapel, Sta. Clara Subdivision. This magnificent and spectacular chapel is designed by Archbishop Norman Campus, the chapel features a mosaic of the Barangay Sang Birhen(Barangay of the Virgin) made of 95,000 shells by Leticia Sia Ledesma, other images of saints, stations of the cross and altar pieces made out of 30,000 shells too.  edit

• Fort San Juan, Gatuslao St. & Burgos St. The Fort served as a jail for prisoners during the Spanish era. Now it is used as a Provincial Jail.  edit

• Iron Dinosaurs (Vintage Steam Locomotives), La Herencia Entrance and Bacolod Murcia Milling Co. compound. Locomotives were used in Bacolod as a mode of transport for the sugar canes, thus they were part of making Bacolod the sugar bowl of the Philippines.  edit

• Lupit Church, Lacson St. and Lizares St (Just near Neg. Occ. high school and Paglaum sports complex). Its magnificent architecture is obviously European inspired, its high ceilings and its tall antena like building might let you think you're inside a Gothic church but built with cement. Its interiors are much appreciated and from the outside might let you think it's a town church back in the United States in a remote town, even though it's a church it looks much like a cathedral, the church too has a mini chapel in the side of the church.  edit

• Mariano Ramos Ancestral home, Burgos St.  edit

• Bacolod Public Plaza, Rizal St. The plaza is like the Bacolod version of Central park but the smaller version, fountains are scattered around the plaza and a gazebo stands in the middle and they are actually the main attractions, just like other parks, trees are scattered around it. The last but not the least, the Unknown Soldiers Monument' also known as Theodore Vinther Monument is found here.  edit

• Carmelite Monastery, Mandalagan, Lacson St (Just a walk from Robinson's Bacolod), ☎ +63-34-29083 (carmeljtbacolod@gmail.com). The Carmelite monastery is obviously home to the order of Carmelites, the monastery is open for people who want to see the church, you can drop your prayers and wishes in some boxes are around the church which will be hopefully granted by the prayers of the nuns. Do some exploring around the compound, meet the nuns and observe how they live.  edit

• Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Building and Lagoon, Gatuslao St. corner Lacson St. This is the official seat of the provincial government and served as the headquarters of the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II and formerly was the Negros Museum. The building is of Romanesque architecture and also has a nice surrounding park and lagoon, which includes the Ang Paghimud-os statues done by Eduardo Castrillo, "Ang Paghimud-os" is a Hiligaynon word for "The Struggle". The building is considered the most impressive building in Bacolod.  edit

• San Antonio Abad Church.

• Lizares-Rodriguez Mansion, Lizares St.  edit

• San Sebastian Cathedral, the Centennial Bells and the Palacio Episcopal, Rizal Street, [12]. The Cathedral was first planned by Fr. Gonzaga whos started building it by collecting coral but died without completing it. It was then continued by the Government and the Priests and was completed in 1894. Now the coral-made Cathedral is covered by cement.  edit*

• St. Jude Thaddeus Shrine, Barangay Alijis. This young church is dedicated to St. Jude Thaddeus; the patron Saint of the Hopeless, drop by this church and offer your prayers.  edit

• The Ruins, Talisay City. The remains of a Spanish-era sugar plantation that was burned by the owners before Japanese forces could seize it during WWII. All that is left of the mansion is its stone skeleton. It is a popular destination for wedding photo shoots. The grounds have beautiful flower beds.  edit

[edit] Museums and Galleries

• Museum Negrense De La Salle, University of St. La Salle, ☎ (63)34-4345998. Monday to Friday 8:30am - 12:00pm, 1:30pm -5:00pm.  edit

• Negros Museum, Gatuslao St, ☎ (+63)34-4349505, [13]. Located in the old agriculture building close to the capitol building. View artifacts related to the sugar industry that began as the the main industry of the province in the 1800s. It also houses an international doll collection. The building is close to a large park, locally referred to as the "lagoon" because of an artificial pool within the park.  edit

• Dizon Ramos Museum, JRR Foundation 42 Burgos St (Near the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Hospital), ☎ +63-344348512, [14]. Tu-Su 10.00-12.00 & 13.30 to 16.00. The first 1950 lifestyle museum in the Philippines, formerly the house of Raymundo L. Dizon Sr. and Hermelinda V. Ramos. The main lifestyle exhibit is on the second floor and on the ground floor are seven galleries. One shows how Bacolod looked in previous times; others are: The National Artist gallery, The Holy Land Collection, The Alunan - Puentebella Dolls Collection, Rudy Dizon horse figures, Bro. Roly's crystal collection and the Masskara collection of ABS-CBN that was turned over to the museum. Adult: ₱30.00, Students with Identification card: ₱10.00.  edit

• Orange Gallery, Lacson St (just before Lopue's Mandalagan). Showcases the work of local artists.  edit

• Christmas Village, San Juan St (Near Sylvia Manor hotel). Opened only during Christmas season. This is the work of a man collecting figurines and collections for 17 years, the details of the miniature model of a Christmas village are incredible, cliffs, lakes, mountains etc. are done carefully and hand painted by the man himself. The owner travels every year and collects figurines and displays it in the village. The miniature village might make you imagine how Santa's village in North pole might be. You're not suppose to take a picture however chances of luck might happen when he'll turn his back and you can flash a picture, if you're obedient but if you don't have a chance to do that, it's alright the owner sells souvenir pictures and postcards. Accepts donations of any kind and gives them for charity.  edit

[edit] Wildlife and Nature

• Eco-Garden (Eroreco).

• Negros Forests and Ecological Foundation Inc.(NFEFI), South Capitol Road (Next to Hall of Justice), ☎ +63-344339234 (info@negrosforests.org), [15]. A movement of concerned citizens in conserving the forests of Negros Island as well as animals that are in threat of extinction raised to a foundation which we know now as Negros Forests and Ecological Foundation Inc. Visit the foundation and see their rare warty pigs, leopard cats, spotted dear, bleeding heart pigeon and many more animals which most are endangered. Help the foundation by adopting an animal or tree or either become an NFEFI volunteer.  edit

• Buro-Buro and Bucal-bucal Springs. Located in the outskirts of Bacolod, Buro-Buro and Bucal-bucal springs which is popularly known as Bucal-Bucal which means boil however the water isn't hot but cool, they have an artificial swimming pool and a natural pool and some mini waterfalls nearby the artificial pool where you can get a natural massage from nature. Huts are available if you need them and the place is ideal for family barbecues, reunions, outings etc.  edit

• Mt. Kanla-on Natural Park. This natural park is a home to many endangered animals, such as Bleeding Heart Pigeon, Negros Fruit Dove and many more which makes it an ideal birdwatching spot.  edit

• Bacolod Western Visayas Clonal Nursery, Barangay Alingalan, ☎ +63-34-7070425. The nursery features different kinds of plants that are important and part of the reforestation program of Negros Occidental. Contact the city hall for more information because it requires permission in visiting the nursery as most of the plants are of high importance. Free.  edit

[edit][add listing] Do

[edit] Fiestas and Events

What's Happening? February 12 to 14, Bacolaodiat will be celebrated and coincidentally it also coincides with Valentine's day, the 2010 Bacolaodiat Festival will feature Lantern dances, Parades, Fire works display, live bands, and a Lovapalooza will be held, a cosplay event too is the part of the celebration; ANBU Fest[16] which will be held in 888 Chinatown mall on February 13 from 17:00 to 22:00. Chopsticks alley will be held along Tindalo and Narra avenues starting 16:00 and there will be also a sale in 888 Chinatown mall. Events will be held daily from 16:00 to 21:00 on 12 and 14, and 16:00 to 00:00 on the 13. For a complete schedule of events check Bacolod Laodiat Schedule. SM Green Film Festival, February 2010, 8AM - 4PM held in SM Cinema 3, A free screening will be held in SM Bacolod City of award winning documentaries about Climate Change and Global Warming, SM encourages the people of Bacolod to be environment friendly and be green. It is a fact that Bacolod is one of the cleanest urbanized cities in the country however they trying to making it more than better.

• Bacolaodiat Festival, January/February

Spring Festival celebrated by the Filipino-Chinese community in Bacolod. This is held in the main plaza. Bacolaodiat is derived from the words "Bacolod" and "Laodiat"; a Hokkien word for "Sinadya" in Hiligaynon, meaning "Celebration". The Chinese New Year of Bacolod. Rows of stalls form the chopsticks alley which served Chinese cuisine, Kinengkoy is shown which is a comedy and musical show, live bands also play, aside from chopsticks alley and live bands, the display of Chinese culture and cookfest is also held.

• Sinigayan Festival, March

The Sinigayan festival commemorates the thanksgiving fiesta in honor of St. Joseph. The celebration is held with dances, crafts and skills of the Negrense. This happens every March in Sagay City and is also commemorated in Bacolod and nearby towns.

• Panaad sa Negros, April

"Panaad sa Negros" is held every April in Bacolod City. The festival represents the festive nature of the Negrense, and commences with a mass, which is then followed by a banner and displays of every town and city in Negros. Firework displays also are held during the festival and there is a showcase of local delicacies of the province.

• Pasasalamat Festival, May

A festival similar to Thanksgiving of the United States. The festival is held in La Carlota City, a city not far away from Bacolod. The festival has a long tradition starting from olden times when the natives would give thanks to Elemental Deities for giving a bountiful harvest. These days the festival is commemorated by colorful parades which provides a glimpse of the religious beliefs of the locals.

• Masskara Festival, 3rd Week of October

A big annual Mardi Gras-like event celebrated every 3rd week of October. Each of the city's barangays (districts) joins the fierce competition for the best-costumed group. Lots of food and handicraft stalls, street dancing and beer at the Bacolod city plaza area. "Masskara" means "Mask" in Hiligaynon and Tagalog. The use of colorful masks with large smiles represent the nickname for the city, "City of Smiles", the masks are usually the icons for the festival and sometimes Bacolod City.

• Kali-Kalihan Festival, November

Kali-Kalihan is a festival which commemorates the Filipino martial art; Kali, and also the ancient beliefs of the tribe concerning nature spirits. The Kali-Kalihan festival happens in Don Salvador Benedicto in November. If you happen to be in Bacolod, check out one of the highlights of the exhibition; Coal Walking.

• Pinta Flores Festival

This festival happens in November. Its origins are a strong tradition during the Spanish times of welcoming visitors through dancing. The dancers are covered in tattoos and flowers.

• Ugyonan Festival

Ugyonan Festival or Snake Festival commemorates the spirit of Bayanihan or co-operation. Dances, sports contests and programs showcasing the culture of Negros are done during this festival.

• Baybaylan Festival

Not far from Bacolod is the city of Bago, which hosts the Babaylan fiesta, held every February 19. This fiesta commemorates the life and times of the ancient tribes that lived in the area. From their local legends, music, handicraft and religious beliefs, it is a showcase of the history of Negros.

• Organik sa Negros!/Organic Farmers Festival, November

The festival promotes eating organic products as well as the products of local farmers. It actually isn't much of a festival but more of a conference where you can learn how to cook and how organic poultry and livestock as well as agriculture is done.

• Pyromagic Festival, December

Held in the SM City Bacolod, launched by the mayor on 2007, held for two days in 2 separate weekends with 6 contestants which will fight for the pyromagic title. This is a must catch as skies spectacularly shine as fireworks are lit up.

[edit] Sports

Football is popular throughout Bacolod; thus it is Known as the "Football city of the Philippines". It has been notable for hosting the 23rd Southeast Asian Games Men's football. The Panaad Stadium is used for tournaments and such events. There are three golf clubs in the province of Negros, two located in Bacolod. For bowling, badminton, tennis enthusiasts and people who miss bowling and billiards, you don't have to worry as there are alot of commercial establishments which offer services to those activities. For those who want to try hardcore games, shooting ranges are around the city while for those who want to see and experience the Sabong or Filipino cockerel derbies, there is a stadium where derbies are popularly held.

Golf

• Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club, Inc., Bata Subdivision, ☎ +63-3428257. This Golf club has 18-holes, with a panoramic view of the Mount Mapara and Patag.  edit

• Bacolod Golf and Country Club, Hacienda Binitin, Murcia, ☎ +63-3429945 (bacgolf@bacolod.worldtelphil.com, fax: +63-3425995). Guests must be sponsored/accompanied by a member.  edit

Bowling

• Super Bowling Lanes, Goldenfield Commercial Complex, ☎ +63-344350059.  edit

• Lopue's East Bowling Lanes, Villamonte.  edit

Lawn Tennis

• Center Court Tennis Courts, Magsaysay St, ☎ +63-34-4344705.  edit

• Montevista Tennis Association, Barangay Montevista.  edit

Badminton

• Pong Hang Badminton Center, Capitol Subdivision, ☎ +63-34-4333632.  edit

Billiards

• MO2, Goldenfields Commercial Complex Araneta St, Singcang.  edit

• Lopue's East Billiards, Burgos-Circumferential Rd (In Lopue's East Department Store), ☎ +63-34-4335288.  edit

[edit] Casinos

• Casino Filipino, Golden Fields Commercial Complex, ☎ +63-344348901. Operated by PAGCOR, the most popular casino in Bacolod.  edit

• Slot Machine Arcade, Lacson St. As the name says, it only offers 89 slot machines, if you get tired of playing slots go to Casino Filipino.  edit

[edit] Resorts and Spa

• Carribean Water Park, Goldenfield West Side, Goldenfield Commercial Complex, Singcang, ☎ +63-34-7096059 (info@caribbean-waterpark.com), [17]. 08:00-22:00. The water park has the first water slide and biggest water slide in the whole of Negros Occidental, The water park's amenities are a pool with a depth of 4 feet as well as a kiddie pool with a depth of 2 and a half feet including a jacuzzi, the main pool has 2 slides; the first is 30ft high and the other is a 40ft, a pirate ship wreck replica is erected in the main pool where kids can explore. Function rooms, locker rooms, huts and air conditioned rooms are available for rent. Entrance fee, 4 years old and above: ₱50, Below 4 years old: ₱50, cabins and huts cost from ₱400-₱1,000.  edit

• Grand Royal Spa, San Isidro Building, 6th St, [18]. Offers the Filipino alternative healing; Bentosa Cupping, they also offer facial spa, body scrub and massage less than ₱500. ₱150-₱500.  edit

• Sta. Fe Resort, Barangay Granada, ☎ +63-34-4341456/4321073 (staferesort@gmail.com), [19]. Built in the 1940s it is the first resort in Bacolod, not only it is the first resort in Bacolod but the only resort with a chapel, mini zoo with crocodiles, rare birds, monkeys and other animals, a complete gun facility and probably the best hangout for families, friend and reunions in the city, pools are also accessible in the resort while dorms and rooms are available for rent if you need them. Sta. Fe isn't only a resort but also caters to conventions. It's other facilities include tennis and volleyball courts and other sporting facilities.  edit

• Palmas del Mar.  edit

[edit] Learn

Bacolod is the seat for many universities in Negros Occidental, ESL (English as Second Language) learning centers are open in the city making it in the toplist for cities for ESL programs along with Manila and Cebu and for the past few year an influx of foreign student who have chosen to study in Bacolod. According to statistics about 93% of the total population is literate.

[edit] Colleges

• Bacolod City College.  edit

• Colegio de San Agustin (San Agustin), B.S. Aquino Drive, ☎ +63-34-4342471/4342475 (Info@csab.edu.ph, fax: +63-34-4339187), [20]. Established on 1965, the college offers courses on nursing, technology, engineering, computer, and arts.  edit

• La Consalacion College (LCC), Rizal St and Gatuslao St (Next to San Sebastian Cathedral), [21]. Established on 1919, the college provides Primary, Secondary and Tertiary education.  edit

• Riverside College (Riverside), [22].  edit

• STI College Bacolod (STI), 26 Lacson St (2nd Floor Era Mall), [23]. STI College Bacolod and STI Education Center, is a leading IT and ITES education provider in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental. STI Bacolod is a member of the STI Education Network with branches all over the Philipines.  edit

• West Negros College (WNC), [24].  edit

[edit] Universities

• Technical University of the Philippines.  edit

• University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), Lizares St (Libertad), [25]. This University was founded by Dr. Antonio A. Lizares and Dr. Francisco Kilayko in the 1940s and was named "Occidental Negros Institute". It was then acquired by the Agustinian Recollect Friars in the 1960s and renamed as University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos. Today the University provides Colleges of Nursing, IT, Business and Accountancy, Engineering and, Arts and Sciences.  edit

• University of St. La Salle (USLS), C.L. Montelibano Rd (Behind Doctors Hospital), [26]. Was established in 1952 by seven American Brothers, the institution was elevated to university status in 1988, with the College of Engineering, College of Education, College of Nursing, College of Law and the Graduate School.  edit

[edit][add listing] Buy

Bacolod is famous for its Piaya, Biscocho and its Pina-Sugbo. Great souvenirs from Bacolod are its sweet delicacies, dried squid or Uga. These are often bought by most Overseas Filipino workers as a Pasalubong; meaning a souvenir. Shell craft, Wood craft and ceramic wares are also good buys.

[edit] Where to buy, shopping centers and malls

Air conditioned shopping malls are on the rise in Bacolod. If you feel uncomfortable in shopping in the wet and dry Central Public Market, malls are the alternative. Among all mall companies, Lopue's has the most branches as well as the oldest malls in the city.

• The University Courtyard, (Nearby Univ. of St. La Salle). The courtyard is home to many clothing stores, a bookshop, a beauty saloon and restaurants. It usually is where most students' hangover after school.  edit

• 888 Chinatown Mall, Gatuslao St. A newly opened Mall in Bacolod, most of the products sold inside the mall are Made in China therefore called as Chinatown Mall, opened on August 8, 2008. Its interiors are some like Chinese and might make you feel you're in Chinatown but in a mall version.  edit

• ANP Showroom, 9th corner, Lacson Street, Bacolod City. A store that sells handicrafts made by proud Negrenses, it is the best source for souvenirs from MassKara masks, key chains etc. Aside from the Lacson street branch, they also sell their products in Merci's Pasalubong in Bacolod-Silay International Airport in the departures area. Most of the items are priced above average, expect to pay at a high rate however the price you pay is worth it as the store sells souvenirs better than the ones you buy outside..  edit

• Pottery Village, Brgy. Pahanocoy,

• Recuerdos de Bacolod arts and antiques. One stop shop showcasing antiques such as statues of Santos; Saints, and woodwork.  edit

• The Central Market is a best option for affordable souvenirs such as Native handmade products, Sweet delicacies and Uga.

Big 3 malls, the Big 3 malls consists of the most popular malls in the city as well as the largest malls. The big 3 malls are a one stop shop area where you can buy popular brands and popular fastfood chains and they are owned by the largest mall companies in the country.

• Gaisano City, Araneta Ave (Infront of Gran Regal Hotel).  edit

• SM City Bacolod, Luzuriaga St. and Fr. M. Ferrero St. The mall is divided into two buildings; Northwing and Southwing. Fastfood chains such as McDonald's, Jollibee and Pizza chains such as Pizza Hut are located here, from all the malls and shopping centers in Bacolod, this may be the best as its air conditioning is good as well as its interiors and architecture are modern. A department store and a supermarket store is also available, ACE hardware is also open. Facilities include a department store, supermarket, cinemas, food court, appliance center and has over 119 stores functioning.  edit

• Robinson's Bacolod.  edit

Pasalubong Centers are usually like mini-Supermarkets but sell only Pasalubong products such as Piaya, Biscocho, etc. There is an abundance of them in the city.

• Bong Bong's Pasalubong, UTC Mall, Araneta St, Purok Lechonan, ☎ +63-34-435-1672 (http://www.bongbongs-piaya.com/bacolod-pasalubong-center.htm). This maybe more popular than Merci Pasalubong however they offer less options, their specialty is their piaya and barquillos. They have a lot of branches in Bacolod however their stores are located in Araneta street and Gaisano City.  edit

• Merci Pasalubong, SM City/Gaisano Bacolod/Araneta Street/Lopez Jaena/Lacson Street, ☎ Lacson Street:+63-34-7091788, Araneta Street:+63-34-7071400, Lopez Jaena:+63-34-4334753, [27]. Merci's specialty is piaya and biscocho. They have a number of branches around Bacolod. ₱10-₱100.  edit

[edit][add listing] Eat

Much of the Bacoleño cuisine is shared with the Western Visayan province of Panay. Just like the whole Filipino cuisine, Bacoleño cuisine is influenced by both the Spanish and Chinese. In the modern times, Bacolod has a number of growing Oriental and Western restaurants but still the people maintain their native cuisine.

• Fresh Lumpia (fresh spring roll; not fried). A must-eat dish, delicately exquisite treat wrapped in a paper thin translucent crepe filled with fresh coconut tree heart (ubod), pork and shrimp with a garnish of scallion.

• Inasal: meaning "oooked over fire", is a local version of Barbeque. Pork or Chicken. It is cooked with red achuete or annatto seeds, which gives its reddish hue color and brushed on oil and cooked over the fire. It's cheap and affordable as well as delicious.

• Kalamayhati: Sticky sweet dessert made from Glutinous rice and coconut milk and cooked over low heat till it becomes sticky. It's the local version of rice cake.

• Napoleones: Napoleones originates from France where it is known as Mille-feuille, known as Napoleon in the United States, aside from Inasal, Bacolod too is popular for its Napoleones, the European dish isn't that so famous but considered as the best in the Philippines, the French had brought the custard filled pastry to the island and thought the people how to make it. Roli's bakeshop is popularly known for its Napoleones as well as Virgie's homemade products.

• Piyaya: Piyaya is a sweet bisuit and kind is the thin version of mooncakes. It has fillings such as ube(yam) and caramel.

• Pinasugbo: Banana sliced thinly coated with brown sugar and deep fried; a local version of Banana Fritters.

• Uga: or dried fish is one of the best and most appetizing foods for most of the bacoleños. Its salty taste makes it delectable, not only for the mouth but also for the smell and for the eyes. Some people might have allergies after eating this.

[edit] Restaurants and cafes

This guide uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:
Budget	Below ₱100
Mid-range	₱100-₱200
Splurge	₱200+

Most of the restaurants and cafes in Bacolod are located along Lacson St. while most of the inter-continental and fusion cuisine is found in Piazza Sorrento which is also in Lacson St. Mexican, Thai, Italian and European cuisine is catered to people here however restaurants that serve those cuisines are difficult to find however people craving for Korean, Japanese and Chinese cuisine don't have to roam around and freakout if they're hungry as many restaurants cater East Asian cuisine. Open air restaurants in Bacolod usually serve native Filipino cuisine at a low and affordable price, fastfood chains are usually found dominating the malls like Robinson's, Gaisano Bacolod City and SM City Bacolod. A newly opened branch of Starbucks is found along Lacson St., the first branch in whole of Negros Occidental. Bacolod is an urbanized city meaning there wouldn't be hard time finding classy and high class quality type of food.

[edit] Budget

• Jo's Chicken Inato, Reclamation Area, Gustilo St. A great choice for fantastic chicken inasal served in a very "native" style. The food is served on a large banana leaf and typically silverware is not provided unless requested. This is truly a great place to eat for someone who doesn't want to eat something too exotic, but wants to try a native dish.  edit

• Marby Plaza, Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod. A great choice for people who wants to save money.  edit

• Ting-Ting's Native Restaurant, Shopping. Get to Ting-Ting's native restaurant if you want your taste buds and tummy to be satisfied with Bacoleño cuisine without hassle, food is cooked same as it is cooked at home difference is you won't be cooking. The place is open air and fresh air fills the open air area which is suitable for brunches and lunches. It is affordable and cheap too.  edit

• Manokan Country, Fr. M. Ferrero St. A row of stalls and restaurants are found here, this is the best place to eat at a affordable price, the Chicken Inasal festival was held here on last 2009. Eat with your hands and take a bite of the famous Chicken inasal which is served with garlic rice. Some famous Inasal restaurant branches are found Bacolod Chicken Inasal, Bacolod Chicken Deli, and Mang Inasal.  edit

• Pala-Pala Market, 18th Aguinaldo St, ☎ (+63)34-4339153. Pala-pala is a place where you can buy fresh seafood in the wet market then go to a restaurant nearby and have it cooked at an eatery nearby and offers affordable prices. From oysters to crabs to blue marlins are all guaranteed fresh and a blue marlin might cost less than P200. Note there are two pala-pala markets in Bacolod.  edit

• Erika's Cup, East Block, Villa Angela. It would hard to find fried ice cream in Bacolod and it is not so common in the country fortunately Erika's cup serves fried ice cream, along with fried ice cream on their menu is also ice cream of course. People complain it's expensive because of the small proportions they serve however it's worthwhile trying fried ice cream for once in a lifetime.  edit

• Royal Caribbean Jamaican Patties, La Salle Ave. As the name suggests, the restaurant serves Jamaican cuisine and their specialties Burger Steak, Classic Pattie and Cheese burst. It might be the only restaurant in the city to serve Jamaican and Caribbean food perhaps. Well they serve Jamaican cuisine however it doesn't mean international cuisine should be expensive, priced from ₱50-₱100.  edit

• Imbiss, Burgos St. It serves international cuisine, the must try is their sausages, their specialties include Hungarian Sausage, Pizza Al Tonno, Veal Bratwurst, Garlic Sausage, Pizza Magarita, and Pizza Filipinas. ₱100-₱200.  edit

[edit] Mid-range

Restaurant below cater some dishes not exceeding ₱300.

• Apollo Restaurant, Hilado St. The oldest Chinese Restaurant  edit

• Bascon Cafe, C.L. Montelibano St (Just near Univ. of St. La Salle). Cafe that serves pastries and cakes, hop in if you have a sugar tooth.  edit

• The Blue Mexican, Piazza Sorrento, Lacson St, ☎ +63-34-3437474. Serves Mexican cuisine.  edit

• Inaka, 21st Lacson St (Opp. Cafe Bob's 21 and next to 21 Restaurant), ☎ (+63)34-4344045. Japanese Buffet, the food is good, has a wide variety of choice and priced favorably.  edit

• Krua Thai Restuarant, Piazza Sorrento, Lacson St. Krua Thai restaurant serves authentic Thai cuisine, located in Piazza Sorrento, their interiors are of Thai inspired to make you feel as if you've stopped in Thailand just for a minute. The place isn't crowded much, suitable for romantic dinners.  edit

• Kuppa, Hilado St (Across St. John's Institute High School). When it comes to coffee and tea talk, Kuppa tops the best, they serve Spanish chocolate and milk that actually is delicious. Their gelato too is worth trying, along with the tea, coffee and gelato, wouldn't it be better if you dined in too? they don't only offer tea and coffee on their menu but you can also dine in too and have a taste of their dishes.  edit

• Mu Shu, 20th Lacson St, ☎ (+63)34-4350972, [28]. Bar and Restaurant which serves a fusion of Asian cuisine. Try their Pritchon or Pritong Lechon (prito means "fried" and "lechon" means roast - usually the whole pig) and a good sampling of Southeast Asian dishes like Pad Thai, Hainanese Chicken, Nasi Goreng and drinks to match.  edit

• Roli's Bakeshop, Roli's Arcade, La Salle Ave. Roli's bakeshop is popularly known for its for their Napoleones or Mille Fuielle or either Napoleons, a creme puffed pastry originated from France and brought to the city.  edit

• Quan, Araneta St, ☎ (+63)34-4323702. A good place for native delicacies, Try their Cuchinta and Puto.  edit.

• Sweet Greens, Lacson St. Serves Organic food as well as sell organic food too.  edit

• Bob's, Benigno S. Aquino Drive (Right in front of Riverside Medical Center), ☎ 434-2409. One of the oldest restaurants in Bacolod, the restaurant serves typical Filipino authentic cuisine with a classy ambiance and wonderful interiors. less than $10.  edit

[edit] Splurge

Restaurant below have some dishes not exceeding ₱500-₱600 or more.

• 21 Restaurant, 21st Lacson St. Serves great seafood which is directly taken from a specially built aquarium. It serves Authentic Filipino cuisine with a high class taste.  edit

• Cafe Uma, Lacson St. Their price list might be too expensive for you that it will make your pockets have holes, well actually no, the cafe charges at an expensive rate however it's worth the price because serve is served in large portions and are temptingly delicious. The cafe usually serves international cuisine, from quesidillas to pasta they have it all to satisfy your cravings.  edit

• Carlo's Ristorante Italiano, (at the Goldenfield's complex). Italian Restaurant, other than the usual pasta scene in the menus of Italian restaurants, they also serve steak and known to be the best in town.  edit

• L'Kaisei, 10th Lacson St. A good Japanese restaurant with reasonable prices and a relaxed atmosphere.  edit

• Vienna Kaffeehauz and Vienna Coffee bar, (Mayfair Plaza, 12th Lacson St. / Gaisano City, Araneta St). Kaffehauz: 08:00-00:00, Coffee bar: 10:00-21:00. Serves authentic Viennese and Austrian cuisine as well as their own coffee. It serves their own brand of coffee with 11 kinds from Espresso to Vienna's eiscoffee. It currently has two shops in Bacolod; Vienna Kaffeehauz in Mayfair Plaza and Vienna Coffee bar in Gaisano City.  edit

[edit][add listing] Drink

The preferred beer is San Mig Light which is served at almost any restaurant. You might also try Tanduay, a very famous rum. Nice to pair with coke and ice. For native alcohol, the local tuba is made from fermented coconut juice. Great Bacolod sisig can be found at KSL or Kubo Sa Lawn where they serve ice cold SanMig Light.

[edit] Bars, Pubs and Nightclubs

Goldenfield commercial Complex has been home to many bars, pubs, nightclubs as well as casinos for the past few years and is considered where the best nightlife comes to life in Bacolod city. Other than Goldenfield, bars and pubs as well as nightclubs are scattered around the bustling city. If you're in Goldenfields you can either barhop, Goldenfields might give you like a mini-town which is just home to restaurants, a water park, clubs and bars. Dress code is applied and compulsory in some bars, pubs and nightclubs, wear casually and not so revealing if you don't wanna end up behind bars, usually dresscodes include; "No Flipflops/Slippers, No Sleeveless shirts".

• Bar 21, 21 Lacson St. A bar that not only has a partying and club scene but also fine dining.  edit

• Breizh Cafe, Lacson St.. It doesn't have much nightlife in it however it's the best place where you can sit down and drink. If you want some private party, a karaoke television (KTV) rooms are available.  edit

• Draft Bar, 21 Lacson St (Behind Bar 21). A bar where a non-stop drinking till you drop scene is seen.  edit

• Gypsy Tea Room, Lacson St (Corner of Piazza Sorento). Beers, cocktails and appetizers are served here and surprisingly "Shisha" is available here, henna tattoo, permanent tattooing and palm reading are also available which might you think you're somewhere in a street in the Mid-East.  edit

• Offshore Bar, Araneta St (Metrodome). Bands play live acoustic here and they serve Absinthe also, a popular destination for those who wanna listen to acoustic music while sitting back and drinking.  edit

• MO2 Restobar, Goldenfield Commercial Complex. One of the most popular party venues for nightlife, located in the bustling commercial complex of Goldenfield. It's usually a crowded bar.  edit

• Mu Shu, Lacson St. In the day an Asian restaurant, in the night a nightclub, chairs and tables are moved aside to create a dance floor, the DJ makes the room alive and parties don't end even when in sunrise.  edit

• Piazza Sorento, Lacson St. It's not that lively in the night though, it's more lively in the day. A huge building with inter cafes, jewelers, restaurants, boutiques, cafes and bars.  edit

• Saltimboca Bar, Lacson St.. Not your usual destination if you wanna party or get good drinks however some mini concerts for charity is held here for kids who are cancer patients. If you prefer to just sit down, drink, relax and listen to music this is your typical destination.  edit

• Zagu. is one of the most popular cold drinks in the city. This can be bought in different outlets, in SM, Robinsons, or during their sponsorship at various schools and events.  edit

[edit][add listing] Sleep

This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room:
Budget	Under ₱1,000
Mid-range	₱1,000 to ₱1,500
Splurge	Over ₱1,500

The following are 2 to 3 star type hotels by Western standards ($25-75):

[edit] Budget

• Bascon Hotel, Gonzaga St. and Lacson St. ₱500-₱1,100.  edit

• Check Inn Hotel, Luzuriaga St, ☎ +63-34-4323755, [29]. Bascon hotel has 91 fully air conditioned, showers, cable tv, laundry, gym, restaurants, a rooftop garden as well as free WiFi connection. This might be the best option for those who want to save money as it has almost all the facilities of what a mid-range and splurge hotel might have. ₱850-₱1,750.  edit

• M02 Days Inn, Goldenfields Commercial Complex. ₱888-₱1,300.  edit

• Sea Breeze Hotel, San Juan St, ☎ +63-344337370 (seabreeze_ph@yahoo.com, fax: +63-344337994). ₱945-₱1,750.  edit

• Tamera Plaza Inn, 79 Lacson St, ☎ +63-34-4321708 (tameraplazainn@gmail.com, fax: +63-34-7090886). Located in Lacson street it has a WiFi connection, restaurant, laundry service, shower, cable TV, a bar and coffee shop. The hotel also serves free breakfast. ₱850-₱1,700.  edit

[edit] Midrange

• Circle Inn, Lopez Jaena St, [30]. in a quiet compound, the hotel is clean, modest and near the bus terminals. The prices are competitive to Business Inn rates and the first hotel to have complimentary in-room high-speed internet connection as well as Wi-Fi access in the lobby and coffeeshop. Its Executive Wing rooms are comparable to higher star hotels.  edit

• East View Hotel, Carlos Hilado Circumferential Road corner Esperanza Diola St, ☎ +63-34-4330596, [31]. Bacolod City's modern hotel that has 66 rooms, conferences and banquet rooms, and an independent restaurant Bluegrass Café Bar and Grill that serves international cuisine.  edit

• Northwest Inn, Rizal St. and Mabino St, ☎ +63-34-4344077 (northwestinn_ph@yahoo.com). ₱1,140-₱2,740.  edit

• O Hotel (Bacolod Executive Inn Hotel), San Sebastian St and Locsin St, ☎ +63-34-4337401/4337404 (fax: +63-34-433-7442), [32]. 55 Air conditioned rooms with cold and hot showers, a deposit safety box, telephone and refrigerator, laundry service, cable TV, coffee shop and bar, aside from their own facilities, a Banco De Oro ATM is available. ₱1,200-₱4,000.  edit

• The Sylvia Manor, San Juan St, [33]. The Sylvia Manor is a 52 room boutique hotel located in Bacolod's throbbing business district with the SM Shopping Mall and Bacolod City Hall just around the corner. They have excellent Wi-Fi coverage within the premises.  edit

[edit] Splurge

• Casino Filipino Hotel Bacolod (Casino Filipino Hotel and Casino Goldenfield Commercial Complex), Singcang, ☎ +63-34-4348901 up to 10 (chf@info.com.ph, fax: +63-34-4344433), [34]. Rooms are airconditioned, with cable television, private bath, and refrigerator Average rate is $73.  edit

• East View Hotel, Carlos Hilado Circumferential Road Corner Esperanza Diola St. ₱1,400-₱4,500.  edit

• L'Fisher Hotel, 14th Lacson St, ☎ +63-34-4333731/4333739 (lfisher@globelines.com.ph), [35]. checkin: 14.00; checkout: 12.00. Perhaps the most known hotel in Bacolod, this hotel has been popular for many years and probably considered a first class hotel and most of the locals might suggest it for accommodation while staying in Bacolod however it's more expensive compared to other hotel but the price is worth it. Rooms vary, executive suites have king sized beds, walk in closets, dining areas, receiving area etc., while cheaper rooms have ordinary facilities such as a cable TV, refrigerator, a dresser etc. $60 - $400.  edit

• Luxur Place, Magsaysay Ave, ☎ +63-34-4344551 (bcp@mozcom.com). ₱2,200-₱4,200.  edit

• Planta Centro Bacolod, Araneta St corner Roxas St, ☎ +63-34-4680400 (reservations@bacolodplantahotel.com, fax: +63-34-4680408), [36]. A newly built first class hotel, the hotel has a swimming pool and a gym, rooms have an electronic safe, cable TV, minibar, WiFi connection and hair dryer. ₱1,650-₱7,200.  edit

[edit] Contact

For local news while in Bacolod, buy a copy of the English daily paper, the Visayan Daily Star [37].

Hundreds of internet cafes sprawl all over the city. Full-service cybercafes like net.aXs (433-5248/709-1314) along La Salle Avenue are open 24 hours and offer domestic and international calls/fax in addition to internet access, scanning, printing, photo-uploading (and CD-Burning) along with other cybercafe-related services.

[edit] Cope

[edit] Emergency

• Police - 166 / +63-34-4341412
• Fire - 164

[edit] Hospitals

• Bacolod Sanitarium and Hospital, Taculing, ☎ +63-34-4334831/4334836.  edit

• Dr. Pablo O. Torre Sr. Memorial Hospital (Riverside Medical Center), B.S. Aquino Drive (Infront of Bob's cafe), ☎ +63-34-4337331/4337349, [38]. Considered to be the only first class hospital in the city.  edit

• Philippine National Red Cross, ☎ +63-34-4348541 (fax: +63-34-4341344), [39].  edit

[edit] Stay safe

Bacolod is a lot safer compared to Manila. As always common sense is the rule when travelling. Taking the taxi or renting cars or vans daily is better and quicker as most of the crimes in the Philippines today are done in tricycles and jeepneys. However there isn't a 100% Safe place, if travelling, tour in large groups 3-5 might do as there might be people around you, you may never know what they'll do to you. Be careful during the Masskara Festival. Don't display your MP3s, iPhones, iPods, phones, laptops or valuable things that will catch a snatcher's attention, keep it safe inside your bag and put it out when you'll take pictures. Don't bring bags or large purses while in night, just bring your phone and a small wallet that'll fit in your pocket to avoid being a victim of crime. Beggars usually are around the downtown area they inhabit in the plaza area and if they see you look rich, they'd approach you and annoy you asking you for money, ignore them if you have to and just go straight to your destination.

[edit] Get out

Nearby towns and cities within the province is accessible by land, Panay island is just 45 minutes away using ferry from Bacolod port.

[edit] Within the province

• Bago City — The main attractions they have to offer are the Kipton twin falls as well as mountain resorts, an ideal destination for trekkers.

• Cadiz city — Popular for its white sand beach;Lakawon beach, an island off the coast of Cadiz.

• Escalante city — Discover the diversity of ecosystems which is one of the richest in the island of Negros and one of the last surviving ecosystems in the island, see the mangroves and the sea grass along the shores as well as remnants of corals

• La Carlota — Trek and hike in Guintubdan.

• Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park is a natural reserve in Canlaon City, the highest point in the Visayas and a favourite spot for Spiritualists and Mountaineers and Catholics during the Holy Week. The reserve is surrounded by flora and fauna, animals found here are deers, boars etc.

• Murcia — See Mamabucal Resort, The resort is on a higher elevation that the city hence having a cooler average temperature. It's main attraction are its natural hot springs.

• Punta Bulata White Beach Resort & Spa - Secluded resort with long stretch of white sand beach, abounding marine life, it is often unknown to many.

• Salas Park located a few minutes from Mambucal Resort. Best to see during the night, where it overlooks the City of Smiles. The trip to the park is what locals call, little Baguio with all the zig-zag and steep roads. You would also be surrounded with old pines, mahogany and the cool air. Best for hikers too. A local guide is available to bring you to various springs and falls. Come to discover.

• Silay — Known as the Paris of Negros because of its European styled hundred old houses which are well preserved and made as historical monuments.

[edit] Further destinations

• Iloilo City — 45 minutes by ferry from Bacolod, this city is the provincial capital of Iloilo, it's main attraction is the Miag-ao Church which is a UNESCO world heritage, it is also famous for its Dinagyang festival.

• Apo Island — just off the coast of the city of Dumaguete, this island is popular for divers and tourists alike.

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