Most of Negros Island’s beauty remains hidden from the rest of the country. This boot-shaped island is blessed by nature with fascinating places waiting to be discovere.  Bago City in the Province of Negros Occidental on the Western side of the Island is probably one of those places that when God gifted the mortals with natural treasures, received a lot.

Bago City’s upland area sat at the foot of Mount Kanlaon where it has numerous springs and waterfalls thus the city has several mountain resorts both privately and publicly managed.  One of the government run resorts is the Buenos Aires Mountain Resort which recently reopened after it has undergone renovation for almost a year.

Located near the foot of Mount Kanlaon in Brgy. Ilijan, Bago City, Buenos Aires Montain Resort has several accommodation and pool choices for visitors. The resort is less than 45-minute drive from Bacolod City and the roadside view is very idyllic. Unlike most part of Negros Occidental, it is in Bago City where you’ll see a lot of rice fields side by side with sugarcane plantations. Bago City is considered the rice granary of Negros Occidental.

I played tour guide to my cousins from Iloilo when they had a weekend vacation in Negros Occidental a few weeks ago.  My nephews and nieces haven’t been to Mambukal yet, so a day tour of Mambukal is a must. It was a long weekend so most resorts including Mambukal were already fully-booked but we were lucky Buenos Aires has an available room enough for nine people.

Buenos Aires offers various accommodation to choose from. There are picnic huts for daytime visitors and cottages for overnight guests.

My cousin requested somebody to book for us at Buenos Aires earlier. When we arrived at Buenos Aires at half past three was when we learned that we were booked in a non-aircon dormitory because it’s the only room available. However, the kids were complaining of the heat so we decided to request to be transferred to an airconditioned room. Fortunately for us, somebody backed out from a booking so we were moved to one of the newer Family Cottages (P3,500).

The cottage has two aircon rooms, one with two double deck beds and one with a matrimonial bed. It also has a large sala-dining area with a TV, refrigerator, dining table and sink. The bathroom was also spacious. The cottage also has a balcony at the back overlooking a river.  The sound of the water cascading over the rocks is very soothing it will lull you to sleep on a warm afternoon. That’s exactly what we did after a shower under the cool mountain spring water of Buenos Aires.

We brought our own food for dinner but there are also food stalls at the entrance of the resort. The food are mostly home-cooked and there’s Chicken Inasal right off the grill for pulutan.

The following day, the kids and teens had so much fun frolicking at the pool since they had the pool for themselves very early in the morning. I explored the other parts of the resort and was awarded by a beautiful view at the top of the hill where the resort Hostel was located. To the East, the summit of Mounta Kanlaon peeks through the morning mist and to the West, the plains of Bago City.

Although there is not much to do in Buenos Aires unlike Mambukal, it’s a nice place to relax on a weekend. The resort is well maintained, beautifully landscaped, quiet and very accessible from Bacolod City. It was all worth the travel we made.

Going to Buenos Aires Mountain Resort

From Bacolod City, take the Road Star Bus at the Bacolod South Terminal (Sambok) to Ma-ao, Bago City (P40/person). From Ma-ao Public Market, take the tricycle to Buenos Aires Mountain Resort (P150-hire).

There’s also an alternate route going to Buenos Aires from Mambukal Resort in Murcia. If you’re from Mambukal, turn left at crossing going to Sitio Manghumay. There’s a sign that says “going to Pataan” but to make sure you won’t miss it, ask the locals once you reach the army headquarters.  When you reach crossing Sitio Pataan, the road to your left will lead you to Pataan Mountain Resort while the road to your right will lead to Kipot Falls and Buenos Aires Mountain Resort. Follow the road to your right until you reach a crossing to your left with a sign leading to Buenos Aires and Rafael Salas National Park around 6km from crossing Sitio Pataan.

View Going to Bago City via Murcia in a larger map

Buenos Aires Mountain Resort
Brgy. Ilijan, Bago City
Negros Occidental

For Booking & Reservation, contact:
Bago City Tourism Affairs Office
Tel. No.: (034) 461-0540
Telefax: (034) 461-1028
Front Desk:  (0917)301-4251

Buenos Aires Mountain Resort Rates:

Overnight Facilities

Daytime Facilities

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Perhaps, the best advantage of being single is you have more time for yourself and to have a free hand in deciding on what to do with it.  So when you need to unwind and have some girl-bonding time, just contact all your single friends and go somewhere nice. We really didn’t have to go that far since just a few minutes from downtown Bacolod City is Palmas Del Mar.

The Costa Del Sol Suite at the Iberian Suites was just perfect for us. The room was very spacious for the four of us and it can still accommodate an extra bed. A wide flat screen TV will lure you to languor in your room but it definitely did not tempt us to miss the view of the sea by the balcony.

Costa del Sol Suite (Photo by Maricar Dabao)

We also did not miss to appreciate the tall acacia trees at the back of the Iberian Suites with its wide expanse of branches gently swaying to the sea breeze. There’s also a pool with slides just adjacent to the Iberian Suites making it very accessible for a quick swim.

Another thing that never failed to get our attention is the food. We enjoyed breakfast by the poolside where I had two poached eggs, chorizo, a slice of watermelon, a piece of pandesal, a piece of ibus, brewed coffee and orange juice. Though the serving size was too much for me, I finished my chorizo since it was really good.

It must be our lucky day since we were invited to have lunch with no less than the owners of Palma’s Del Mar, the Lizares family. The family attends mass at the resort every Sunday and since it’s the birthday of a family member, lunch was courtesy of the family with a few invited friends. Home cooked food by the beach makes you forget about your diet.

NITI Tour Guides with the management of Palmas del Mar Bacolod

Conversations with Atty. Andrea Lizares-Si and John Mari Lizares revolve around tourism in the province and the issues and concerns that hound the local hotel industry.  After lunch, no less than Lizares siblings Andrea and John Mari and the resort’s new manager JB Ongsingco, toured us around the resort.

The Iberian Suites was the newest addition to the resort.  There are still expansion plans to be anticipated including additional pools and function rooms. That means better service and more choices for customers.

Surely, you’ll find a theme which suits you among the different themed rooms at Palmas. There’s a pool suited to every family member. The Family Suites, Island Suites, Garden Rooms and Villa Cabanas continue to draw patrons who have enjoyed their rooms for the past 15 years. I was quite surprised at the rates since it’s quite affordable for a group and the rooms are quite spacious too. It’s perfect for families who want to spend a luxurious weekend away from the city but still very accessible.

Planning a garden wedding? The landscaped garden will serve as an excellent venue. Wait for sunset and you will be awed by the sheer beauty of the sun’s dramatic farewell. Wouldn’t that be a great backdrop for your beach wedding?

Sunset at Palmas del Mar Bacolod (Photo by Anton Manso)

The pool at the Mediterranean Suites was very inviting with its Jacuzzi.  At night, you will feel like you were transported, guess where? The Mediterranean, of course! The pool is lighted so that it has a warm glow, giving it a romantic ambiance. It has two Jacuzzis which you can use for free if you are a resort guest. It’s perfect for honeymooning couples.

All single women at a beautiful resort with a romantic sunset…you can’t blame us for our line of thoughts. Now, if only they have a wedding package that goes with a groom.

How to get there:

Palmas del Mar Bacolod is very accessible by public transport and by a private vehicle. Take the Airport – Central Market jeepney from downtown Bacolod and tell the driver you’re going to Palmas del Mar. You can also take the taxi. Any self-respecting taxi driver would know where Palmas is located. If not, better take another one. If it’s your first time to drive to Palmas, the location map below will be very helpful.

Location Map:

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For more info, contact:
Address: J.R. Torres Avenue, Bacolod City
Email: info@palmasdelmarresort.net
Telephone: +6334-434-8987, +6334-434-7971 to 72, +6334-433-3587 to 88
Website: palmasdelmarresort.net

Sipalay City, located in Southern Negros Occidental where it faces Sulu Sea and has one of the richest marine life in the country. Sipalay City’s 44 dive sites composed of coral reefs and sunken ships make it one of the top diving destinations in the Philippines. This is one of the main reasons why some of the best diving resorts in the county are located in Sipalay City.

Artistic Diving Resort at Punta Ballo Beach founded in 1998 by Swiss Diving Instructor Arthur Mueller and his Filipina wife Evalyn Mueller, is a favorite getaway both of local and international tourists. The resort is around 6km from Sipalay City proper and very accessible through a concrete road.

The resort has 16 air-conditioned bungalows and villas you can chose from depending on your preference. There are bungalows located  just a few meters from the beach. If you prefer a magnificent view of the sea especially during sunset,  you may opt for the villas located at an elevated hill.

However, it can be a little difficult to go up the villas and down to the beach for those who have knee problems so select the beachfront bungalows if you have this problem. Rooms are equipped with hot and cold shower, TV and refrigerator. Though the rooms may not be as luxurious as the ones found in Boracay, they are nonetheless comfortable.

Artistic Diving Resort has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine. The rate is affordable at an average of P150-250 per person per meal, depending on your order. Serving size for dishes (i.e adobo, pork chop) is just right for foreigners but more than enough for a local. So if you’re a budget traveler in a group, you can share among your companions.

You can also hang out at the beach bar or take a dip at the swimming pool. There’s a library and billiard table should you wish to take  a break from beach-related activities. Internet access is available at the lobby.

Since Artistic Diving Resort is near the excellent dive sites in Sipalay City, the resort offers diving lessons and diving tours. PADI accredited dive instructors will take you to an underwater adventure that will surely make your vacation very memorable. They can also facilitate a trip to Danjugan Island in Cauayan, Negros Occidental.

The appeal of Sipalay beaches resorts lie in the fact that the beaches are not overcrowded, allowing you to enjoy your privacy. The next time you plan your vacation, consider booking at Artistic Diving Resort. The rates are reasonable and the staff are friendly and accommodating both to local and international tourists.

For more inquiries, contact 09194095594 or visit their website at www.artisticdiving.com

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Somebody asked me, upon learning that I’m into tour guiding, where in Negros is   Melba’s Farm. You see, she was amazed to see huge billboards of Melba’s Farm along EDSA. She thought the owner must be very rich to afford it. Or he could be the owner of that billboard too, I said. In this case, that is true since Mr. Alvin Carranza owns Melba’s Farm which he named after his mother and MacGraphics Carranz, an outdoor advertising company.

If you’re like this person who’s wondering where Melba’s Farm is located, let me walk you through it. It is located at Sitio Masanglad, Brgy. Cabatangan, Talisay City. It’s actually right at the boundary of Bacolod City and Talisay City. However, it is more accessible via a 2-km dirt road from Brgy. Alangilan, Bacolod City.

Our group from Negros Island Tourism Inc. (NITI) was invited by Mr. Carranza and though we were not able to meet him, his coordinator, Nicky Burgos eagerly accompanied us to their farm.

It was my second time to visit the place. The first time, we hiked from Brgy. Alangilan up to Melba’s farm. The terrain of Alangilan is quite rugged. One moment you’d be climbing a rolling hill, the next you’d go down several feet and get your feet wet in the stream. By the time we reached Melba’s Farm, we were all out of breath.

The second time was a breeze, Mr. Burgos met the group at Lopue’s East and drove us to Melba’s Farm. If you’re driving skill is not ready for the off road, never attempt to drive up to Melba’s Farm. Maneuvering on the rough road can be an adventure in itself and a 4-wheel drive vehicle would be the ideal choice. They can also arrange to pick you up for your convenience if you are staying overnight.

Located 600 meters above sea level, the first thing you’ll notice at Melba’s Farm is the cool breeze. Thanks to the different species of planted forest and fruit trees thrive together with the naturally-grown endemic trees in this 12-hectare property.

Farm Administrator Raymond de Asis guided as to the different trees at the farm and we didn’t miss to have our pictures taken at the trees planted by the Miss Earth 2009 candidates. Then we hiked to “the tube”, a trail used to transport timber from the logging sites of ILCO during its heyday. This is a preferred trail by mountain biking enthusiasts since it will require a lot of skills to maneuver through the sloping trail.

When you reach the clubhouse, you will surely appreciate the scenic view of Bacolod City. The buko juice that welcomed us was just what we needed after the hike. Imagine yourself sipping buko juice, enjoying the view of the city below and the cool gentle breeze touching your face, isn’t it bliss?

It’s a good thing that there’s still such a place within Bacolod City. Mr. Carranza’s conservationist principles are quite evident at Melba’s Farm. They use solar panels for power, they disallow the use of plastics and they use biodegradable materials.

The clubhouse is already equipped with phone, internet access, and a wide screen television which let you stay connected. There are currently two rooms which can accommodate guests. The Lauan room can accommodate 4-6 persons. This room is ideal for a family and has a deck with a nice view of the landscape below. Another room more ideal for couples is the Mahogany room located at the right side of the clubhouse. It has its own deck too, overlooking the organic greenhouse garden and the thick forest below. All the rooms and the bathrooms are quite spacious. Guests are free to use the infinity pool which is just big enough for a small group since management deliberately designed the place for intimate gatherings.

After inspecting the place, we are ready for lunch. Melba’s Farm has their own organic vegetable garden thus, the food they serve are not only fresh but also healthy. Lunch was prepared by Raymond’s wife Chinky. We had mixed tropical fruit platter for appetizer – Indian mango, pineapple and star fruit (galangan). All praises for Chinky’s cooking. She can turn a seemingly ordinary recipe into something really special. We had Camote Tops Salad, Carrot and Camote Okoy, Crispy Kangkong and Steamed Hainanese Chicken with Candied Ginger and Spicy Tamarind Sauce. The food will surely be one of the reasons to go back to Melba’s Farm.

What’s the best thing to do after a sumptuous lunch? Siesta! It’s a pity we didn’t get to do that. We had to go back to our busy life at the city. But the good news is, we have our experience at Melba’s Farm to share to friends and family. And we’re sure they don’t need much convincing to visit Melba’s Farm.

How to get to Melba’s Farm

For first timers, the easiest way is to contact them and arrange for you to be picked up. For those already familiar with Alangilan, you’ll pass by Buro-Buro Farm in going to Melba’s Farm through a 2-km rough road but call the management first so that they can give you instructions. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is a must.

Suggested Side Trip

The Granada-Alangilan area is fast becoming an eco-tourism destination because of its cooler climate and fertile soil. Going to Melba’s Farm, there are several interesting sites we recommend you check out.

• USLS Granada Eco Park
• Bacolod Polo Club
• Buro-Buro Farm

For more info, visit their website: http://melbasfarm.multiply.com

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Some photos courtesy of Maricar Dabao of Viaje Negrense

We were lucky to be part of the exclusive guests of Punta Bulata White Beach Resort and Spa recently courtesy of Havaianas. It was my first time to visit the resort and I was quite impressed.

Located in the Municipality of Cauayan in Southern Negros Occidental, Punta Bulata should be on your list of resorts to visit if you are looking for an exclusive and private hideaway in Negros Island.

We were billeted at Room 2A at the Ayu Spa and I think we had one of the best rooms. We had a beautiful view of the garden, pool and the sea.and a very spacious bathroom too! Just outside our room was a small receiving area with a balcony which was also a good spot for relaxation.

The resort has a long stretch of white sand where you can take a leisurely walk in the morning and during late afternoon. The sunset overlooking Sulu Sea can be quite romantic too. Swimming is one of the activities you can do either at the beach or at the infinity pool. For the adventurous, you can visit Danjugan Island which is only 10 minutes away by boat from Punta Bulata.

Because of its location, you can have the privacy you long for at Punta Bulata. They have different room accommodations depending on your preference. They have the hotel spa rooms, cabana, family suites, aircon van – all scattered in different locations around the resort.

Going there, the first challenge you’ll have to hurdle is the travel time. Punta Bulata is 154 km from Bacolod City of roughly 3 hours of travel. If you are traveling with a group, you can hire a vehicle from Bacolod City. But if you are the backpacker type, you can take the Ceres bus. The resort is still 4 kilometers away from the highway so you have to take a tricycle from the crossing. Make sure you tell the driver you are going to Punta Bulata so he’ll know where to drop you off.

Punta Bulata is a exclusive resort so you can expect the rates to be a little higher that the usual resorts. I personally suggest the hotel spa rooms because of their spacious rooms and bathrooms. Because of its distance from Bacolod, a 3D 2N stay would be ideal so you can really explore the place and try their services such as the spa.

For more information, visit their website.

Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay City is the nearest resort-hotel from the Bacolod-Silay Airport. At only 3.5 km away from downtown Bacolod City, the resort is likewise very accessible from the capital city.

When it was developed in 1992, the owners planted hundreds of eucalyptus  trees around the perimeter of the property. The trees are now towering over the resort, giving it shade and cool atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Marapara and surrounded by sugarcane plantations, the resort has a tranquil atmosphere suited for a relaxing vacation.

Village Hotel

The ambiance of the Village Hotel is homey and rustic. The interior was designed by Nina Paras with interesting pieces from the collection of the owners. All furniture and fixtures were made at the Village Shop by long time employees utilizing local materials.

The dedication of the owners in the preservation of Negrense culture is very evident in the lobby which they successfully turned into a repository of distinctly Negrense items. Many of the items on display were once prized possessions in local households but have lost their functions over time as people would prefer the convenience of modern facilities.

There were chandeliers made from glass ocean buoys once used as net markers by fishermen in the province. There were also pottery jars from Tangub, lusong from Sipalay, coconut graters and stone grinders Railroad ties fashioned into other furniture items is a sad reminder of the once heyday of the Iron Dinosaurs.

Visitors can also buy authentic Negrense products for souvenirs from the resort souvenir shop. Items collected from the travels of the owners were also on display. Most prominent among the colelctions are the folk textiles painstakingly made by hand. These items were cultural icons and were made for a specific purpose. There were short notes attached to them so the visitors can appreciate their value.

Amenities

Function Hall

The Restaurant

Salvacion Park Pool

Camp Edgar

Commitment to Sustainable Tourism and Development

The commitment of the management of Nature’s Village to sustainable tourism is ingrained in the company’s Vision and Mission. This culture of environment awareness and protection is evident in the sustainable practices of the resort

• The staff are trained how to care for the environment and be an example to the guests
• The resort adheres to the Solid Waste Management Program of Talisay City
• An organic farm was set-up to make use of biodegradable wastes of the resort and the produce are also served to the guests
• Noise pollution control programs are in place to secure guests’ relaxation and

The efforts made by Nature’s Village toward sustainable tourism are really commendable and should be emulated by other hotels and resorts. It’s nice to stay in a resort with all the amenities for relaxation. But to stay in one where you are assured that their practices protect the environment will not only give you respite but also give you the satisfaction that you also help in the protection of the environment.

For inquiries, contact:

Nature’s Village Resort Talisay City, Negros Occidental 6115
Philippines
Phone: (63) (34) 495-0808 / 4953369 / 712-1272
Fax: (63) (34) 495-3368
Mobile: (63) (920)902-3075 / (920)812-4924
Email: info@naturesvillageresort.net
Website: www.naturesvillageresort.net

Photo by: Anne Valdez

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I know a lot of people at this time are looking for the 2009 Masskara Festival Schedule. A lot of people are scrambling to book for a room at any Bacolod Hotel or Bacolod Resort this early to avoid the rush.  If you want to know where to stay in Bacolod during Masskara Festival, please check on our list of Bacolod Hotels and Resorts and visit the respective websites of the different hotels and resorts. The list will hopefully give you an idea of the different options you have for accommodations during MassKara Festival.

BACOLOD & NEARBY RESORTS

BACOLOD PAVILION RESORT HOTEL
Reclamation Area, Bacolod City
Tel. No. 434-1824

CARIBBEAN WATERPARK AND RESOTEL
Golden Field Commercial Complex, Bacolod City,
Tel.  No. 709-6059, 433-6683, 435-2643
E-mail: info@caribbean-waterpark.com
Website: http://www.caribbean-waterpark.com

NATURE’S VILLAGE RESORT
Talisay City, Negros Occidental 6115
Phone: (63) (34) 495-0808 / 4953368 to 69 / 712-1272
Fax: (63) (34) 495-3368
Mobile: (63) (922)870 2643
Email: info@naturesvillageresort.net
Website: www.naturesvillageresort.net

PALMAS DEL MAR
JR Torres Ave., Bacolod City
Tel No. 435-3527/ 434-7971-72
Email: palmasdelmar_bcd07@yahoo.com
Website: http://palmasdelmarresort.net/

STA. FE RESORT
Brgy. Granada, Bacolod City
Tel No. 432-1073
Email: staferesort@gmail.com
Website: http://staferesort.com

FIRST CLASS BACOLOD HOTELS

L’FISHER HOTEL
14th Lacson Street, Bacolod City, Philippines
Tel Nos. 63 34 433-3731 to 39; Fax 63 34 433-0951
E-mail: lfisher@globelines.com.ph
Website: http://lfisherhotelbacolod.com

LUXUR PLACE (Formerly Convention Plaza Hotel)
Magsaysay Avenue, Bacolod City, Philippines
Tel. Nos. 63 34 434-4551 to 55, 63 34 707-1919
Fax:63 34 433-3757
Email: sales@luxurplace.com
Website: www.luxurplacehotel.com

PAGCOR HOTEL & CASINO (Formerly Casino Filipino)
Goldenfield Commercial Complex
Singcang, Bacolod City, Philippines
Tel. Nos.: 63 34 434-8901 to 10
Fax: 63 34 434-4433
E-mail: info.bacolod@pagcor.ph
Website: www.pagcor.ph/bacolod

PLANTA CENTRO BACOLOD HOTEL & RESIDENCES
Corner Araneta- Rojas Sts., Bacolod City, Philippines
Tel No. 63 34 468-0400, 63 34 468-0408
E-mail: info@bacolodplantahotel.com, banquetsales@bacolodplantahotel.com
Website: www.bacolodplantahotel.com

ECONOMY BACOLOD HOTELS

BASCON HOTEL
Gonzaga Locsin Street, Bacolod City
Tel No.435-4071-72

CHECK INN PENSION
Ponce Building, Luzuriaga St, Bacolod City
Tel. No. (034)432-3755

O HOTEL (Formerly Bacolod Executive Inn)
San Sebastian-Locsin Sts., Bacolod City
Tel No.433-7401 to 04
E-mail: info@ohotel.com.ph
Website: www.ohotel.com.ph

PROMINENCE INN
Araneta Street, Singcang, Bacolod City
Tel No.435-0021
E-mail: prominence@mozcom.com

SEA BREEZE HOTEL
San Juan Street, Bacolod City
Tel No.(034) 433-7370/ Fax: 4337994
Email: seabreeze_ph@yahoo.com

TAMERA PLAZA INN
#79 Lacson St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 432-1708; Fax: 709-0886

STANDARD BACOLOD HOTELS

BUSINESS INN HOTEL
#28 Lacson St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-8877; Fax: (034) 434-2114
E-mail: info@businessin.net
Website: www.bacolodbusinessinn.com

CIRCLE INN
Lopez Jaena – Malaspina Streets, Capitol Shopping Center
Bacolod City 6100 Philippines
Telephone: +63-34-709-9111
Telefax: +63-34-433-2538
Mobile/Text Messaging: +63-917-445-9972
E-Mail: info@circleinnph.com
Website: www.circleinnph.com

EAST VIEW HOTEL
Carlos Hilado Circumferential Road corner Esperanza Diola Street
Bacolod City, Negros Occidental
6100 Philippines
Telephone No: (034) 7072222; (034) 4330596Email
Address:contact@eastviewhotel.com
Website:http://www.eastviewhotel.com

GRAND REGAL HOTEL
Araneta St., Singcang, Bacolod City
Tel No. 708-5888 / 708-5588

GOLDENFIELDS KUNDUTEL
Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Bacolod City
Tel No.433-7211 to 16
Fax: (034) 433-7202
E-mail: kundutel@bcd.wbw.ph

MO2 DAYS INN
Goldenfields Commercial Complex
Tel. No. 432-2317; Fax: 709-4368

MO2 WESTOWN HOTEL
Lacson Street, Mandalagan, B.C.
Tel No. 441-1481/ Fax: 709-6500
E-mail: mo2westown_bcd@yahoo.com

NORTHWEST INN
JB Corner, Rizal-Mabino Sts
Tel No. 434-4077

ROYAL AM REI
13th Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Tel No.433-8881; Fax: 4330222

SUGARLAND HOTEL
Araneta-Singcang Sts., Bacolod City
Tel No.435-2690
Fax: (034) 433-2645 ; Fax: 435-2645
E-mail: sugarland@mozom.com

SYLVIA MANOR HOTEL
San Juan St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-9801 / 709-0927; Fax: 434-9833
E-mail: stay@sylviamanor.com/
Website: http://www.sylviamanor.com

BACOLOD TOURIST INNS

7R RESIDENCE INN
#56 Luzuriaga St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-5674

BACOLOD KING’S HOTEL
San Sebastian-Gatuslao Street
Tel No.434-4500, 434-4600; Fax: 433-0576

BACOLOD PENSION PLAZA
Cuadra St., Bacolod City
Tel No.433-4547/ (034) 433-2203

BALDEVIA PENSION HOUSE
San Juan-san Sebastian Sts., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-8107-09

BELLE’S PENSION HOUSE
17th Lacson St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-5575

CASA AMPARO
Lacson St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-3592

G & J HORIZON PENSION
Locsin-Libertad, Bacolod City
Tel No.433-3098

G & V PENSIONNE ROYALE
Burgos North Drive., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-5234

KIMAS PENSION HOUSE
Mandalagan, Bacolod City
Tel No. 435-4293 / 709-8529; Fax:709-8527

MERCENARY INN (Formerly Bacolod Legacy Inn)
Liroville Subd., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-6181

OMAR PENSION
Narra Avenue, Bacolod City
Tel No. 709-0062

PEARL MANOR
North Drive – Lacson St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-5091 / 433-5092

PENSION BACOLOD
11th St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-7065

REGENCY PLAZA
Lacson Extension, Bacolod City
Tel No.433-1458

SALTIMBOCA PENSION
17th Lacson, Bacolod City
Tel No.432-3617, 432-1145, 432-3179

STAR PLUS
Lacson-Rosario St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-2949

TINDALO PENSION
Tindalo St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 709-0006

TRAVELLER’S INN
BS Aquino Drive- Lacson St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 432-2966

BACOLOD PENSION HOUSES

11TH BED AND BREAKFAST
11th Street, Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-9191

BALAY PUEBLO ROSARIO
No 15 Sta Filomena St., Eroreco, Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-4243, 434-0424

ESTER PENSION
Araneta-Libertad St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-4879

HIRO PENSION
Alijis Road
Tel No. 434-7313

ISADORA’S PLACE
Magsaysay Ave, Singcang
Tel No. 707-8993

JACQUELINE’S PENSION
13th Gatuslao St.
Tel No. 709-8580

KARMEN PENSION I
Cor. Lopez Jaena-Sta Ana Sts
Tel No. 431-9001

LAS ROCAS PENSION/ BACOLOD INN
Gatuslao St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 431-7288

LD PENSION
San Juan-Luzuriaga Sts., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-6920, 434-4979

MAINSTREET PENSION
Lacson South Extension
Tel No. 435-3675

MONIC PENSION (Pension Phoenix)
Rosario St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 432-0397

POLOYs PENSION
Bonifacio St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-6817

RAINBOW PENSION
Mabini St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 707-7931

ROSITA’S HOMETEL
Mabini St., Bacolod City
Tel No. 434-5136

SWEET CITY CAPTEL (Formerly NOBC Hostel)
Kadiwa Center, Bacolod City
Tel No. 433-5391

For MassKara Festival first timers, please read our feature on the history of MassKara Festival and here are photos from last year’s MassKara Festial.

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The pioneer will always have a first mover advantage over its competitors. That’s why if you ask people in Bacolod to give you a resort’s name, Sta Fe Resort would come to mind. Sta. Fe Resort is the oldest privately owned resort in Bacolod City established in the 1940′s.

Sta. Fe Resort is ideal for weekend family outings, family gatherings and events and also for company outings, conferences and conventions. Dorm and room accommodation is available and there are function rooms with different capacities to choose from.

Sta. Fe Resort also has several distinctions aside from being the first resort in Bacolod. It’s the only resort with a chapel, a mini zoo and a complete gun club facility.

How to get there:

Sta. Fe Resort is located in Brgy. Granada, Bacolod City and is very accessible. It is around 7 km. from Bacolod City and about 20 minutes travel by private car and public utility vehicle.

When taking public utility jeep, take the jeepneys plying the Sta. Fe-Burgos route at the Burgos Market. This will take you right at the gate of Sta. Fe Resort. It’s hard to miss Sta. Fe Resort since it is located in front of San Muguel Brewery.

For more information, visit their website:  Sta. Fe Bacolod Resort

About 30 minutes drive away from Bacolod City lies a picturesque mountain resort managed by the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental. The Mambukal Mountain Resort located in the town of Murcia, Negros Occidental lies 1,200 feet above sea level and serves as gateway to Mt. Kanlaon.

The resort was originally developed by a Japanese architect named Kokichi Paul Ishiwata in 1927. The resort started as a bath house and picnic garden and has provided cool haven for Negrenses and their guests.

Spread over 23.6 hectares at the foot of Mt. Kanlaon, the Mambukal Mountain Resort boasts of a number of hot sulfur springs. A big mountain stream, fed by several tributaries, descends in a series of seven falls feeding the swimming pools and boating lagoon.

Things to See and Do in Mambukal

To commune with nature, you can camp out at the camping grounds or enjoy a Canopy Walk on the hanging bridges under the lush green forest.

If relaxation is what you’re after,  take a dip at the Ishiwata Bath House originally built by Kokichi Paul Ishiwata in 1927. Relieve your stress after at the Mambukal warm sulfur dipping pool. There’s the boating lagoon which you can enjoy with a group of friends or family. Wade your body aches away at the swimming pool  or you can have a body massage at the Blade Spa.

You can likewise bring children along since they will surely enjoy the butterfly garden and the kiddie pool. Mambukal is also home to 4,000 fruit bats which live freely inside the resort.

For a more physical challenge, there’s Wall Climbing and the Mambukal Slide for Life, the resort’s 200-meter long zip line. For more adventure, one can trek to the seventh falls where your endurance can be tested.

Mambukal Accommodation

Mambukal is ideal for family outings and business conferences. For those on a budget, there’s the Tourist Lodge which offers standard rooms and suites. There are single air conditioned cottages or campsites to choose from as well as picnic sheds for day visitors. There are stalls at the resort serving local dishes at reasonable price so don’t worry about going hungry.

How to Get to Mambukal Resort

Mambukal is a favorite vacation destination of local and foreign tourists since it is very accessible from Bacolod City. The resort is around 30 minutes by private vehicle and 45 minutes by public utility vehicle. From downtown Bacolod, take the “double tire” mini-buses going to Murcia from the Libertad terminal. Fare is less than P50. Double Tires are almost always available from Mambukal going to Bacolod City.

Mambukal Resort Rates

Entrance

Adult – P 30.00
11 years & below – P 10.00
Light Vehicles – P 15.00
Trucks/Buses – P 30.00

Swimming Pools

(Kiddie/Adult Pool/ Mambo Pool, Dipping Pool)
Adult – P 50.00
11 years old and below – P 20.00

Picnic Huts

Big – P 600.00
Small – P 300.00

Activities

Wall Climbing – P 25.00
Slide for Life – P 100.00 – 2 trips
Canopy Walk – P 50.00
Boating – P 30.00 / person
Butterfly Garden – P 20.00 / person

Accommodation Facilities:

LGU Cottage
- P 900.00- Single beds / Matrimonial
- P 1,200.00 – 4 single beds
- P 1,500.00 – 2 single beds and 2 double decks
- P 4,000.00 – 2 bedrooms with Living Room, Dining Room and Kitchen

Tourist Lodge
- P 600.00 – Ordinary
- P 750.00 – Deluxe
- P 1,000.00 – Suite
- P 2,000.00 – Exclusive use
Camping – P 30.00 / person

Check In – 2:00PM
Check Out – 12:00 Noon

Tables with 4 Chairs – P 100.00
Additional Foam – P 100.00
Canopy with 1 table and chairs – P 300.00

Transport Service:
Coaster 25-Seater
Urvan 12-Seater

Conference Hall:

• Entirely versatile with audio visual, lighting and meeting equipment for seminar, conferences, and banquets
• The entire hall is divisible into 3 sections and can accommodate up to 400 persons.
• Caterings Service Is Available – with set meals and buffet choices.

For Reservations:

Mambukal Resort Reservation Office
Provincial Capitol Building
Gatuslao Street, Bacolod City
Tel. No. (034) 709-0990 | Telefax (034) 433-8516
Cellphone No. 09082712174
Email: mambukal@negros-occ.gov.ph

Mambukal Resort
Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia
Province of Negros Occidental, Philippines
Tel. No. (034) 7100-800 | Telefax (034) 7100-801

There has been a lot of developments at The Ruins since we featured it here. Worth mentioning are the staff who are very professional. It was evident that they have been trained well. The tour guides are well versed to the history of the mansion. They explained interesting facts about the mansion. You can also trust them to take your picture and they know just the right angle.

It’s also much easier now to get there even by public transport whereas before, you would still ask around how to get to The Ruins. Below are the developments and attractions at The Ruins that you can look forward to on your visit.

• Take Photos

Take photos of the The Ruins structure or have your photos taken, whichever way you want it, The Ruins is a photo-enthusiast’s haven. It is also an ideal for pre-nuptial shoots. It’s unique architecture offers a romantic backdrop for couples.

• Play the 18-hole mini-golf course

This is a latest addition The Ruins. Patterned after the design of a world-renowned mini-golf course designed in the U.S.A., the course is laden with real blue grass and is maintained and cared for daily.

• Dine at The Ruins Restaurant

Restaurant at The Ruins

The Ruins boasts of a semi-fine dining restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine, some of which are still the original recipes of the Lacson family. They serve lunch, snacks, and dinner daily. They also have a mini-bar which offers hot and cold beverages.

Restaurant at The Ruins

• Hold Events

The Ruins is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. They cater to special events such as weddings receptions, pre and post nuptials shoots, debuts, educational tours, etc

• Enjoy the Scenery

Though there’s no picnic area yet, there’s nothing stopping you from sitting down on the grass one of the benches, enjoy the scenery and wait for the sunset.

• Don’t Forget to Buy Souvenirs

Yes, you can now buy souvenirs at The Ruins from T-shirts, key chains, the mansions’ miniature replica.

Souvenir Shop at The Ruins

Future Developments

The management is planning to open a camping and picnic grounds and a pavilion so they can cater to more guests. This is good so that people will not get tired of coming to The Ruins since they get a new experience every time they visit.

For more inquiries, contact The Ruins:
Mobile: (0917) 832-6003
Telefax: (034) 495-2790
Email: lacson_mansion@yahoo.com.ph
Website: http://theruins.multiply.com