Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Dipolog Destination Guides
Overview
The southernmost island of the Philippines, Mindanao, is very proud of Dipolog City and it can definitely be said that a tour of the south starts here. There are many interesting Dipolog destinations unlike other tourist spots in the country that can enrich one’s vacation in Zamboanga del Norte
Linabo Peak
Even if one is not a health freak and does not like exercising very much, hardly anyone can resist making that climb up Linabo Peak. This Dipolog destination has contributed immensely to the growing tourism industry in this city and upon reaching the very top of Linabo Peak, one will experience a certain natural high. Aside from the endorphins that the body releases during the climb, the view is just fascinating at the peak of this Dipolog destination. Linabo Peak looks out to the clearest blue skies, the calm seas and the rolling hills of Dipolog. It has been said that this Dipolog destination is good for lamenting and recollecting and if what one needs is just a moment to see things clearly, then a climb up Linabo Peak is suggested.
There’s exactly 3,003 steps to reach the top of Linabo Peak and this Dipolog destination is especially popular during Holy Week when devotees find the time to go here to establish connection with a Higher Being. The drop off point for Linabo Peak is about 15 minutes away from Dipolog City and the fare is about Php 50.
Cogon Eco Park
A tourist attraction and extremely popular among kids is Cogon Eco Park because of the many different kinds of trees and species of animals that can be found here. Cogon Eco Park is part of reforestation project initiated by the local government of Zamboanga del Norte and it is a constant reminder of the necessity to protect our environment. Children especially love this Dipolog destination because it gives them a chance to be outdoors with their families and parents take this opportunity to help their children appreciate nature. Some of the wild animals that can be found at the Cogon Eco Park are reptiles and birds. The Cogon Eco Park also allows trekking and camping for those who want to do more outdoor activities. Another attraction at this Dipolog destination is the Subanen Village where an indigenous tribe resides. A visit to the Cogon Eco Park does not just allow one to get back in touch with nature, it’s also an opportunity to learn about the rich culture of Dipolog.
Dipolog Government Sites
Welcome to The Orchid City of the Philippines: Dipolog City
The city of Dipolog is the main city or the capital of Zamboanga del Norte (southern part of Mindanao, Philippines). The city is known to have a flourishing fishing industry (especially of sardines) and famous for wild orchids. Years ago, the city was considered the wealthiest as per capita in the peninsula of Zamboanga (according to National Statistics Coordination Board or NSCB in 2006). One of the factors why this city is thriving in terms of economic growth is because of its accessibility (airport, seaports and the ‘Roll-on Roll off’ facility). According to history, the Christian Religion (especially of the Catholic Religion) started at Dipolog City, specifically in the area of Dapitan. Thus, it is considered the Center of Mindanao Evangelization after the Spanish fleet, led by a Society of Jesus member, Juan Juarez Gallinato, successfully overpowered the Manguindanau Muslims. The missions continued but outside the area, (some Mindanao towns) remained untouched. Generally speaking, Mindanao has three types or kinds of people (settlers): the Bangsamoro, the Lumad and Settlers (mostly Christians).
Bonding in Dipolog City
The best time to go and stay in the city of Dipolog is during the Dipolog P’gsalubuk Festival. It is the best time for bonding since the term p’gsalabuk is a Subano dialect term that means ‘togetherness’. It features street dancing in the main road of Dipolog City. the culminating activity is a cultural production which depicts the different types of people in Mindanao as interpreted through creative dancing. Hence, the main aim or goal of the presentation is ‘unity in diversity’ among different people or culture. Thus, it promotes harmony, peace and ‘togetherness’ amongst their diversity. The City administration or government of Dipolog, through this festivity inform and educate people about their common roots and origins, enhance mutual respect and promote the cultural and historical heritage of the Mindanao as a whole. P’gsalabuk Festival is certainly a feast of unity and ‘togetherness’.
The Orchid City access: http://www.dipologcity.gov.ph/
To discover the wonders of Dipolog City online, the City Government developed an official website (http://www.dipologcity.gov.ph/). The website is very interactive and has a lot of important information and significant facts that a potential tourist or a business entrepreneur should take note or consider. As a first timer in Dipolog City, definitely, it is a must to access and check the website. Through the power of the internet, Dipolog City is just a few clicks away.
Dipolog Travel Agents
The blessed land of Dipolog City had made few names or title for itself such as ‘The Orchid City’, ‘The Bottled Sardines of the Philippines’ and the ‘Gateway to Western Mindanao’. These titles or names signify the real deal regarding the wonders of Dipolog City. Being the ‘Gateway to Western Mindanao’ had something to do with the strategic location which gave economic and commercial accessibility as the Western Nautical Highway. The thriving sardine industry for years which made a great contribution to economic growth of the city had donned the garland as the ‘Bottled Capital of the Philippines’. The rare orchid species, the Dipolog Orchid, and various beautiful species of orchid that could be seen in the place made it the ‘Orchid City’ of the Philippines. These titles are clear testimonies of the best of Dipolog City.
Dipolog City and its Tourism Assets
Enjoying the wonders of Dipolog means, at least, going into these best spots or attractions. The Dipolog Fountain is also known as the Fountain of Blessings. It symbolizes the diverse culture of Dipolog City and an act of thanksgiving (bowl raised) to God for the wonders and graces of the city. The fountain is located at Estaka-Turno road junction. Dipolog Hall stands as the monument of the local government of Dipolog City. Punta Corro or the Santa Cruz is the place where migrating natives of Bohol from the Visayas Region landed and established their settlement and a cross was put up as a thanksgiving altar to God for a safe journey. The Cogon Park or Cogon Eco-Park is the right place for nature-loving visitors or tourists. The park’s flora and fauna gives the place its uniqueness. If trekking, hiking and climbing means relaxation then the right place in Dipolog City is the Linabo Climb. More than three thousand steps to tread and walk before getting into the Linabo Peak. This tedious effort would give tourists a wonderful and fantastic view of the Dapitan and Dipolog-the Twin Cities. These spots and actually more could be seen and experience staying in Dipolog City.
Getting in Dipolog City
As a basic travelers’ tip, tourists and visitors alike should always be prepared. A memorable journey is not really defined by one hundred percent hassle-free trip, but this should be at least placed into a nominal chance. Sueders Travel and Tours is one of the travel agencies that helped tourists for years to make sure Dipolog City stay would be very memorable. The agency is located at Gawchua Building, Echavez Street, corner Quezon Avenue at Dipolog City. As always making sure of the agency’s information would just be few clicks away. It is better be sure than be sorry. Hop in, enjoy Dipolog City!
Dipolog Sightseeing Guide
Dipolog has a lot of scenic tourist spots to offer and visitors often wonder what places they should start with. This Dipolog sightseeing guide ought to help. Here are the first 5 recommendations.
Linabo Peak
Where else can tourists get a panoramic view of Dipolog, Dapitan, and the Sulu sea all at the same time except from the Linabo Peak? This breath-taking climb hits 3 birds with a stone, so a foremost Dipolog sightseeing guide recommendation should be a visit to this mountain peak. To reach this peak, visitors need to traverse the 3003 concrete steps up Linabo Peak which is nothing short of what the penitent faithful suffers each Lenten season. The awesome experience close to being on top of the world is a fascinating tour delight that augurs well of what more to expect from a Dipolog sightseeing adventure.
Cogon Park
It’s a rare opportunity to see hardwood trees in lush clusters in an actual forest. Trees like Nato, Rattan, Tianong, Lumbayao, duguan, Narig, Mayapis, Lauan, Acacia, Narra, Yemane, Molave, Teak, and Mahogany. Cogon Park has all these and more. Wild animals in their natural habitat, enthralling camping sites, mountaineering spots, picnic cottages, plus the awesome Sungkilaw Falls are only examples of things that will surely lure tourists to this place. Thus, this Dipolog sightseeing guide urges visitors not to miss Cogon Park.
Punta Corro or Sta. Cruz
Here is where tourists can visit an altar built in 1895 which was personally designed by the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. And people can see why this is among spots in the province strongly recommended by this Dipolog sightseeing guide. Not even in Manila or Laguna, where Rizal spent his childhood, will people see an architectural composition by the great hero himself. The altar is inside a Roman Catholic cathedral along Rizal Avenue and near the town plaza. It was built in 1895.
Dipolog Fountain Monument
Situated at the Estaka Turno junction, this monument with a fountain amid a garden reflects the strong faith of the people of Dipolog. They erected this monument, with three statues lifting a bowl to heaven, as a gesture of their thanksgiving to God for bountiful harvests. The three statues also symbolize the three main types of early settlers in Dipolog and in Mindanao. This is among the top four recommendations of this Dipolog sightseeing guide.
After seeing these four tourist spots suggested by this Dipolog sightseeing guide, visitors may proceed to other scenic places in Dipolog.
Dipolog Festivals and Events
Overview
Many visitors instantly fall in love with the charm of Dipolog and its sights and sounds. For many years now, more and more tourists flock to this place to experience Dipolog festivals that are unlike any other event in the Philippines. The history and culture of Dipolog are properly depicted in these Dipolog festivals, and these events are fun and lively.
Katkat sa Dipolog
This Dipolog festival might have a weird sounding name but this highly successful event is mainly due to the efforts that the locals put in when it comes to preparing for this day. The Katkat sa Dipolog is a religious Dipolog festival but it’s not just the devotees who attend this. Katkat sa Dipolog is also attended by nature lovers and sports enthusiasts because of the numerous activities planned for the day during this event. This Dipolog festival is 100% adventure and for nature lovers since they get to enjoy rigorous trekking in the beautiful forests of Dipolog and mountain climbing. The Katkat sa Dipolog is actually also an opportunity to see many Dipolog sights because on the way to the mountains, participants pass by the biggest tourist attractions here. En route to Katkat sa Dipolog, one can also visit Linabo Peak, the Cogon Eco-Tourism Park and the famous Pamsalanan Reforestation Site. The Katkat sa Dipolog is held annually during the summer season.
Sinulog sa Dopolog
Held right after New Year’s Day, the Sinulog sa Dopolog is a big event in this place with preparations being made way before the actual event. The residents of Dipolog prepare their dances, parades and dishes for families, friends and visitors even before the sun rises during this Dipolog festival. The Sinulog sa Dopolog is to commemorate baby Jesus and this age old Dipolog festival has been celebrated since the time of the Spanish occupation of the country. Even the city government participates in the Sinulog sa Dopolog by organizing processions and different contests that are held all day long. The ZN Sports Complex is where presentations from the different barangays are held, as well as contests that everyone can join. The term “sinulog” in Sinulog sa Dopolog means “water current” which is descriptive of the dances performed on this occasion and these form an integral part of the celebration. Merrymaking continues in the homes of the residents where a feast is served during the Sinulog sa Dopolog and everyone is invited.
Dipolog Hotels and Resorts
Overview
The province of Zamboanga del Norte and its capital, Dipolog City, is home to some great hospitality providers which is one of the reasons it has become a known tourist destination. When looking for the right Dipolog hotel, basic knowledge about the accommodation providers in the area is a must.
Dakak Park Hotel
In our busy everyday lives, it is often hard to find a moment to get in touch with nature aside from having quick lunch at the park. Dakak Park Hotel offers a one of a kind accommodation that not only gives you the modern day luxuries but brings you closer to nature. Pampering their guests is a motto of this Dipolog hotel and it has its own private white sand beach for the guests to enjoy. Getting around Dakak Park Hotel is a pleasure because footpaths here are not only lined with greenery, one will find that it winds past pools and streams and one doesn’t even realize that one is already at one’s destination. Room rates at Dakak Park Hotel start at US$80 per night and each room is fully air conditioned with hot and cold shower. All rooms at this Dipolog hotel have a queen sized bed, cable television, fridge and an IDD telephone. Dakak Park Hotel also offers the added convenience of airport transfers and they make touring Dipolog much easier with their package tours. Dakak Park Hotel is a 4 star Dipolog hotel and has 156 rooms in total.
Top Plaza Hotel
This Dipolog hotel is a business hotel a mere 10 minutes away from the airport and if one is arriving by sea, it’s half an hour away from the Pulawan Port. Top Plaza Hotel is a 4 storey building that is accessible to the commercial district being right in Dipolog City. This Dipolog hotel is a walking distance from everything one might need whether it be a restaurant, a bank or a mall and if walking is not something that one wants to do, just simply hail a motorcab. The service provided by Top Plaza Hotel is commended by many because of their attention to detail. A diner on the ground floor of the Top Plaza Hotel serves nutritious and affordable snacks and the standard room has everything one could possibly need. Each room regardless of type at the Top Plaza Hotel has its own private bathroom, air conditioning and television. The rates include complimentary breakfast everyday of one’s stay and because it’s very business oriented, WiFi access is provided to all the guests of Top Plaza Hotel.
Dipolog Sightseeing and Activities
Dipolog City in Zamboanga has many places of interests for tourist activities like sightseeing, pilgrimage, nature tripping. Historical landmarks, religious shrines and pristine natural formations are some of the places to visit in Dipolog City.
Those who want to go on a pilgrimage trip or go hiking should go to Linabo Peak. The feature of this destination is the more than three thousand concrete steps going up the summit. Lush green vegetation and fresh cool air accompany the visitor while navigating these steps. Linabo Peak is the location where the Katkat Sakripisyo takes place every Lenten Season. Devotees go up the peak to ask for absolution, self-sacrifice and comtemplation. At an elevation of four hundred eighty six meters above sea level, Linabo Peak offers sightseeing tourists a spectacular bird’s eye view. One can behold the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan amidst the azure sky and sea.
Sightseeing and communing with nature are activities that can be enjoyed by tourists while they are in Cogon Eco-Park. This reforested area offers sightseeing visitors and adventures the chance to hike a forest trail that has lush vegetation of different kinds of trees like Acacia, Mahogany, Lumbayao, Teak, Molave, Yamane, Lauan, Narra, Mayapis, Marig, Duguan, Nato and Rattan. Inside this park is the Sungkilaw Falls, where one can swim in the cool refreshing pool created by the waterfall.
For the beach lovers and enthusiasts of aquatic activities, the Sicayab Beach is the place to go. This beach is popular among local and foreign tourists. This long stretch of beach boasts of clean clear waters that are ideal for swimming, picnics, snorkeling and jet skiing. Dakak Beach, on the other hand, boasts of fine white sand. The islands of Aliguay and Silinog Islands are points of interest for those who want to avoid the usual crowd.
Dipolog also boasts of destinations for sightseeing under water, also known as scuba diving. Liuay Rock, Mushroom Wall, Cesar’s Reef, Octupus Wall, Romy’s Reef and Eskuelahan are the popular dive sites where one can see the colorful marine life interaction of graceful fishes swimming among magnificent coral and reef formations.
Several landmarks are up for visit for the sightseeing tourists whose interest inclines towards history. The Santa Cruz Holy Rosary Cathedral is one of these landmarks. The highlight of this visit is the altar that was believed to be designed by the national hero Jose Rizal. Dipolog City Hall offers history buffs three monuments of historical persons that had significant contributions to Dipolog.
Finally, a sightseeing tourist should visit the Dipolog Fountain. This is an iconic Dipolog symbol. It was build to give thanksgiving for the blessings received by Dipolog City.
Dipolog Shopping
Referred to by many people as the ‘Orchid City’ in the Philippines, Dipolog is home to numerous shopping malls, specialty stores and other commercial establishments. With all their beautiful features, efficient services and convenient locations, these facilities contribute to a very exciting and totally fun Dipolog shopping experience like no other.
Lee Super Plaza
As one of the newest malls in the area, Lee Super Plaza greatly helps in the continuous growth and development of the Dipolog shopping industry. Primarily a three-storey building, owner Dynamic Development Corp. has designed the place to become one of the largest, nicest and highly inviting shopping hubs in the city. It has a spacious supermarket where people can purchase their different needs including food, groceries and other important personal items. It also has a gaming area for kids and the young-at-heart, featuring a complete lineup of highly advanced videogames. For food enthusiasts, they will surely have fun at the spacious food court. More importantly, it features advanced cinemas where the entire family can watch their favorite films. People can find this mall just along Quezon Avenue.
Dipolog Shopping Center
Because of its position right in front of the public market, people find it very hard not to recognize Dipolog Shopping Center along Rizal Avenue. Comprised of three floors, this place features a number of fast food chains and restaurants inside including Greenwich. It also features Gibi Shoes, a specialty shop that offers various kinds of casual and leather footwear, both for men and women. There are also several appliance centers available inside, where customers can purchase some of the latest electronic home appliances. For medicine and other personal needs, this mall has an HBC outlet that guarantees new medicines all the time.
Dipolog Friendly Mart
People can find Dipolog Friendly Mart just close to Lee Super Plaza along Quezon Avenue. Made up of four floors, this building features a grocery store inside. Likewise, it also has a bakeshop where customers can buy bread, pastries and cakes. There is also a meat shop available, which offers some of the freshest cuts of beef, pork and chicken. For those who wish to go online, they can easily do so almost anytime they want by visiting the Internet café inside this mall. In addition, a bookstore is also present, which offers affordable school supplies like notebooks, pencils and pens.
Dipolog Center Mall
One of the highly noticeable shopping centers in the area, Dipolog Center Mall features different kinds of stalls and retail shops. For those who want to buy jewelries and other accessories, they can go to Broadway Gems. Meanwhile, individuals who want to know the latest trends in fashion can go to RRJ and purchase some of the coolest and hippest clothes including jeans, shirts and many others. Moreover, this mall also has a phone shop, numerous mobile phone stalls and a photo-processing center.
Dipolog Beach Guide
The instant that you hear Dipolog beaches many people instantly think of Dakak. The coastal area of Dipolog is on the northwestern side of Zamboanga del Norte. Beaches in Dipolog are often described with shimmering sand that is so pure and white. The waters are always blue and clear. The beaches in Dipolog also have good diving spots. There are still more beaches in Dipolog aside from Dakak. There are beaches that are near the Sulu sea. The Dakak is a wide beach with seven hundred fifty meters. It has white sand and it is near Dapitan. Dakak beach is ranked six on the best ten beaches of the Philippines list. Dipolog is truly proud of this honor.
Dipolog is a southern Philippine city filled with culture, history and arts as well. This place has appealed to many tourists for years. The Galas Dark Gray Beach is one of the beaches many tourists and residents there frequent. The sand here is of course gray but this is an ideal place to have a picnic. The place is regularly maintained so it is always clean. From Dipolog you can go to Galas beach by using any transportation because it is just five kilometers from the capital. The color of the sand is because of the Manganese sulphate that abounds in the sand. Many people are attracted to Galas beach because it is considered a public place which means that it is cheaper to go there. The place is very clean and the ambience is very relaxing.
The attraction to Galas Dark Gray Beach is easy to understand. Aside from being a public beach making it inexpensive to go to, it is clean and relaxing. Hearing the waves lap gently on the sand at the Galas Dark Gray Beach is enough to soothe the most troubled individual and it is a place where adults and children alike can enjoy. At the Galas Dark Gray Beach, while children go swimming, adults engage in light conversation putting aside the frenzied and hurried lives we live in for most of the week.
Miputak Beach is another beach in Dipolog where many locals would go to spend time with their families. The place is open for everyone. You can do so many sports in Miputak Beach. They can camp, skim boarding, diving , scuba diving and then walking along the shore. Some locals also like treeking along the hills that are near. There are several resorts and hotels in Miputak beach. Most of them offer tour packages or diving packages.
Camping on the sand is also a good activity you can do in Miputak Beach. Families and friends can just set up one tent and sleep over near the beach. Many working adults go here to get a release from the daily stress of earning a living.
Dipolog Travel Guide
One of the fast-developing cities in the southern part of the Philippines, Dipolog City plays home to numerous natural and manmade tourist attractions. Aside from these spots, many people visit the city for its interesting and attractive festivals. Hence, for travelers who have interest in visiting the place, there are Dipolog travel guides that can help them be informed and knowledgeable about the city. Additionally, these guides also offer information on places to stay, dine, and visit in Dipolog City, Philippines.
Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, most Dipolog travel guides offer sections on hotels, lodges, and inns that people can find when they visit Dipolog City, Philippines. For those who are in search for places where they can have a luxurious stay, they can always take a look at the facilities of some famous hospitality service providers in the area such as Top Plaza Hotel, Hotel Camila, and Elizabeth Hotel. Meanwhile, for those who are in tight budget, they can make advance reservations at any of the lodges and inns that provide affordable accommodations, including West End Court Inn, CL Inn, and Rodriguez Inn. Above all, Dipolog travel guides also feature pension houses where travelers can experience the comfort of being in their own homes.
Dining
In terms of dining,
Anot Dipolog travel guides feature restaurants that offer delectable and sumptuous meals to everyone. For those who crave for Filipino dishes, they can always check the menu of some dining places in Dipolog City, Philippines, which include CL Fastfood, Chip’n Lechon Manok, and Morgia’s BBQ and Lechon Manok. Hence, those who prefer to have a wonderful dining experience, they can always visit Roadside Café and Restaurant, Seafoods Park and Restaurant, as well as Seven Treasures. For the convenience of all travelers, Dipolog travel guides include the location of restaurants that they feature in Dipolog City, Philippines.
Tourist Destinationsher significant feature of Dipolog travel guides is the section that features tourist destinations in Dipolog City, Philippines. Some of the natural attractions in the place are Villaester Hot Spring, New Castle Mountain Range, and Ads Hot Spring. Meanwhile, for those who like to visit manmade attractions in the city, they can look at Patriot Monument, Linabo 3002 Steps, and Cogon Eco Park.
Travel guides will surely help tourists have a great and memorable vacation and trip to Dipolog City, Philippines. With the special features on accommodations, dining and tourist destinations, people will not experience hassles and problems during their stay in the place.
