Bacolod

Smile and the world will smile back at you. And I guess the best place to do that is where people known to be happy and friendly. Come with us as we visit the City of Smiles, Bacolod!

Just an hour away from Iloilo via fast ferry, Bacolod is the provincial capital of Negros Occidental. Recently, it topped the list of "Best Places to Live in the Philippines", followed by Makati and Davao respectively. Me, as a Davaoeño, I always admire my city and so far, I wouldn't exchange it to any. I'm not suggesting regionalism but if I have to rate Davao, it's superlative. In fact, in an another survey, it ranked #1. That is why, I'm curious how the City of Smiles made an edge and bagged the record.

Ally and Glochi were my travel buddies. The trip was actually planned but we rather called it spontaneous because we never thought it would really push through. We were attending a Leader Summit and there was an event early morning and another one late afternoon. We utilized the time in between to explore this neighboring city. We only had like 5 hours to do it, less 2 or 3 for travel time, leaving us most likely 2 hours to enjoy the city. But fun started even before we left, so everything's worth it.

Upon arrival, we went ahead to the Public Plaza situated not far from SM. On our way, we were stopped by street vendors selling butintings like bracelets, anklets, keychains and necklaces. Their design were unique that each of us bought more than enough for our friends.

Some were also selling colorful masks. Bacolod is notable for its MassKara Festival. Too bad, we're several weeks early.

Then we continued walking to the Plaza. We didn't know exactly its location so we ask the locals for direction. Finally, we found it! But before we crossed the street, Ally and Glochi took some time visiting San Sebastian Cathedral right in front the Plaza.

Bacolod Public Plaza is a popular site among Bacoleños or Negrenses. In fact, it serves as the final destination of MassKara street dancing competitions. During off-seasons, people go here for picnic or just to unwind. I also personally like it because of the many trees around. I guess some of them are century-old.

At the center is a gazeebo with names of musical composers like Beethoven and Mozart inscribed at the roofside. The floor is also iconic. It looks like a giant chessboard, but atop, it is spiral like that of a sunflower pattern.

Our trip did not end here. We still had time to proceed to the next city, Talisay. Immidiately, we hired a taxi to bring us to The Ruins.

Photo credits: Glochi & Ally