AVELING to the other side of Negros Island seems easier these days by driving through the Mabinay mountains.
From Bacolod to Kabankalan, it takes about three hours. It's a strategic place for a stopover for dining and rest room purposes. From there, it takes another three to four hours to reach Negros Oriental.
My sister, two nephews and I spent the first weekend of the year in Dumaguete City to meet relatives who came from abroad. It was fun despite the windy and stormy weather.
We liked our temporary abode for two days. It was so homey and comfortable and looks like a medieval castle. There's a also cozy dining place.
The highlight of our trip was going to Manjuyod White Sand Bar which is located on the north side of Dumaguete. Manjuyod is a seven-kilometer stretch of premium white sand that disappears during high tide. It is a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. It is also a place for dolphin and whale-watching.
It was a windy Saturday but we were still excited and raring to go. It was high tide so we missed the white sand. We swam, ate and slept in our cottage within the water. The dolphins and whales did not show up either. Still, we enjoyed the experience.
We also went to two churches. The St. Catherine de Alexandria Cathedral is the city's most popular architectural landmark. It also has a bell tower known as Campanario de Dumaguete. Indeed, it was beautiful. The other church we went to is the Divine Mercy Parish of the Marian Missionaries of the Holy Cross in Banilad Bacong, about 20 minutes from the city.
With its beautiful beaches and historic churches, and a lot more tourist attractions, there are really many reasons to go back to the other side of Negros Island.
r2.
Fit for the Queen
Robert Harland
rWHAT do Coca-Cola, the Ritz London, Jaguar Land Rover, Samsung, Kellogg and DHL have in common?
Yes, they're all successful international companies, but they have one thing in common that's rather special. Their products are used regularly by various members of the British Royal family.
And to recognize this, the manufacturers are granted what is called a Royal Warrant. Some 850 companies currently hold a Royal Warrant, and they are allowed to advertise the fact that they supply the Royal family.
According to the Royal Warrant Holders Association, warrants are granted as a mark of recognition to individuals or companies who have supplied goods or services for at least five years to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh or Prince Charles.
The association adds that warrants have always been regarded as demonstrating excellence and quality and are highly prized. The companies represent a huge cross-section of trade and industry, and they range from traditional crafts people to multinational firms and state-of-the-art technology giants.
Warrant holders may display the relevant Royal Arms and the legend 'By Appointment' on their products, premises, stationery, vehicles and advertising.