Bacolod

Bacolod is the capital city of the province of Negros Occidental. Visit for the warm atmosphere, climate-wise and people-wise (the city's catch phrase is "city of smiles"), and also for beaches, great food and history.

Bacolod is located 45 minutes South of Manila by plane. Commercial flights are available daily from Manila and Cebu. If flying in to the Ninoy Aquino international airport in Manila you will have to change planes for the 45 minute hop to Bacolod. You will land at the new Bacolod-Silay Airport of international standards, and could use the bus to get to the city proper.

Participate in the festivities during the Masskara Festival (masskara, the Ilonggo word for mask). A big annual Mardi Gras like event celebrated every 3rd week of October. Each of the city's barangays (districts) joins the competition for the fiercely competitive best costumed group. Lots of food and handicraft stalls, street dancing and beer at the Bacolod city plaza area.