5 Happy Things To Do While in the City of Smiles, Bacolod

written on January 18th, 2017 by Kristiana Rule

Bacolod is one other place in the Visayas that is full of beautiful surprises.

Here are 5 happy things to do while in the City of Smiles, and the rest of Negros Occidental:

Visit The Ruins

The Ruins in Talisay City is a picturesque destination, and one with a romantic backstory. Known as the Taj Mahal of Negros, this was built by a wealthy businessman in memory of his deceased wife. It was razed to the ground during World War II, but the original frames of the structure survived. Now, it’s a destination for weddings and tourists alike.

Explore Mambukal Mountain Resort

The place has pools, hot springs, at least seven waterfalls, a butterfly farm and a sighting of bats come sunset. Need we say more? This resort high up in the mountains of Murcia sure takes the cake when it comes to adventure whenever you find yourself in Negros.

Let Silay Take You Back in Time

Negros Occidental is home to the largest sugar plantations in the country. “Sugar barons” have built prominent houses that have stood the test of time in Silay City. Take a bike around Silay and photograph some of these lovely and beautifully maintained ancestral houses.

Grab Authentic Chicken Inasal and More

When one speaks of Bacolod food, we almost immediately think of big, juicy chicken inasal. Grab authentic Bacolod chicken inasal in the strip aptly named Manokan country. Then, satisfy your sweet tooth with Calea’s famous cakes and pastries.

Get Ready To Smile at the Masskara Festival

The city of smiles has its own festival of laughing faces. The Masskara festival started in the 1980s to lift the Negrenses’ spirits up after a very depressing period. Head on out to this festival every third Sunday of November and party the night away!