Dumaguete City is once again opening its doors to travelers whose journeys go beyond sightseeing, welcoming visitors who are looking to discover stories, culture, and creativity.
The Dumaguete City Tourism Office recently extended a warm welcome to Kimi Lu and fellow participants of “Sacred Secret Travel: A Journey Through Words, Sketches, & Stories,” taking place in Dumaguete from September 10–13, 2026. The visit highlights the city as a destination where travel can become an opportunity to observe, create, and connect with local culture.
A Creative Journey Through Dumaguete
Unlike a typical trip centered only on attractions, “Sacred Secret Travel” places emphasis on experiencing a destination through words, sketches, and stories. The concept gives travelers an opportunity to slow down and see places not simply as tourist spots, but as sources of inspiration. For Dumaguete, this kind of creative exploration fits naturally with the city's growing reputation as a cultural and literary destination. The Department of Tourism describes Dumaguete as the first Philippine UNESCO Creative City of Literature, with experiences that include heritage, food, arts, and the historic Silliman University campus.
Dumaguete as a City of Stories
There is plenty for creative travelers to discover around the city. From the historic Campanario de Dumaguete and the National Museum to Rizal Boulevard, local cafés, food traditions, and everyday scenes along the streets, Dumaguete offers a mix of old and new.
The city's identity is also strongly connected to literature, education, and the arts. Its cultural spaces and institutions provide opportunities for visitors to experience the city through different perspectives rather than simply checking destinations off an itinerary.
Where Travel Meets Art and Observation
The idea behind a journey through words and sketches encourages visitors to pay closer attention to their surroundings. A quiet street, an old building, a conversation with a local, or the changing colors along the coast can all become part of a traveler's story.
This makes Dumaguete particularly fitting for a creative itinerary. Its relatively relaxed atmosphere allows visitors to explore at a slower pace while finding inspiration in both its recognizable landmarks and ordinary moments.
