One thing you should realize before traveling is that travel guidebooks and websites can only tell you so much. So prepare yourself for whatever comes your way, especially if it’s your first time going to a particular destination.
Anyhoo, let me share with you some of the things I wish I knew before going to Dumaguete:
1. The climb to the Casaroro Falls should be the highlight of the trip. I’ve read that you should be prepared for the 300 odd steps going down the Casaroro Falls. But what others haven’t written is that it can also be quite challenging climbing from where the habal-habal or van drops you off to the entrance to the steps. The road’s rocky and can be quite slippery especially after a rain.
So here’s what. If you’re planning on going to the Casaroro Falls, make sure you’re fairly physically fit. Nope, you don’t have to go to the gym. The climb won’t kill you, but it helps to be physically prepared for it. Also wear shoes with grippy soles.
But don’t give up when you finally find yourself in the middle of the trail, panting. Take a breather. Keep on going. The view’s great.
2. 100 Pesos worth of gas is more than enough for a 5-hour motorcycle rental. Of course, I rented a motorcycle at Dumaguete. It’s fun and its gets you to where you’re going quickly. But if you’re going to rent one for only 5 hours (the minimum, which costs only P100 for regular motorcycles), you will probably be fine with only P50 worth of gas. You can of course load up P100, if you’re feeling generous towards the bike owners. :D
3. To get cheap airport tricycles, walk until you get to the Shell gas station. Airport tricycles are expensive (considering the distance you’re traveling from the airport to downtown Dumaguete). The drivers will typically ask P80-100 for the trip. So if you want to save money, go ride a tricyle at the gas station outside the airport. It also gives you a good opportunity to ride with the locals.
4. If you know a little Bisaya, mixing it with English helps somewhat. I understand Bisaya, but I often stutter when I try to speak the language. So when I tried listening to Silliman University students, I found a solution. Using English terms for words I don’t know can sometimes help. Example? Where ang Scooby’s, miss? Funny, but effective. You might get strange looks from other people, though.
Thinking of going to Dumaguete? I hope you find these tips helpful. Or share your tips too if you’ve already been there. :)
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tae. i did that casaroro thing way back in 2006, before i lost weight. the climb was HELL.
did you go to bais and the mangrove park? that area alone is worth the visit, in my opinion.
Hahaha. But you must have lost a lot of weight already with that climb alone. Didn’t have the time to visit Bais, though. Maybe next time. :D
Funny, very helpful with choc-full of great tips! Since I’m Bisaya, I totally agree with your last tip. Better talk to us in English or Bis-lish rather than in total Tagalog. We’d just ignore you ;)
Mao jud! Hehehe. But good thing Bisayas are friendly, so it’s not too difficult talking to them. From where ka exactly? :)
so nag what mo sa dumaguete? sounds coño! hahahaha
Nag-walking ug eating lang. Hahaha.