The province boasts of one of our nation’s rich history. Most famous for being home to national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal during his exile, Dapitan allows tourists to re-learn history in a more interesting way by retracing his steps and visiting his usual "hang-outs" back in the day.

Historical sites: Dr. Rizal’s Casa Redonda and Casa Cuadrada, the books, periodicals and exhibits at The Rizaliana, the Dapitan City Plaza, and The Rizal Shrine, his original estate that has been declared a national shrine.

After walking back in time, the perfect way to end the day is to hang out in Gloria de Dapitan, the newest commercial center in the area that offers a variety of activities to its visitors. The place houses native shops, a fitness center, a bowling alley with state of the art equipment, carousel and other kiddie rides. Bars, restaurants and cafés surround the international cock-derby coliseum, which is a major attraction to many tourists and locals. Just 20 minutes away from the national shrine, this commercial park is the latest pride of the Dapitaños.

Dipolog also lets you experience the beauty of nature. A 25-minute hike from the OISCA Forest Park will bring you to the Sungkilaw Falls. Nature-lovers will also enjoy the Cogon Jungle Adventure, a 300-hectare forested area ideal for mountaineering and hiking.

The man-made 3,003 steps to the Linabo Peak is a winding path along a tunnel of trees leading to a panoramic vista of sky and sea, offering a magnificent view of Dipolog and Dapitan.

Spectacular beaches also bracket the province’s alluring coastline. A diving mecca in Mindanao, Dakak Beach is also famous for its beautiful coves and powdery white sand. Other popular beaches are Sicayab Beach, Galas, and Olingan Beach. The Dapitan Bay also boasts of a breath-taking sunset that could rival that of the famous Manila Bay.

Travelers should not miss this southern province’s colorful festivals and celebrations. The Buklog sa Dipolog is a thanksgiving festival and ritual highlighting the culture of the Subanens in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Other highly-anticipated events are the Sinulog and Kinabayo Festival. A two-day celebration in honor of St. James, the Sinulog is a dance procession while the Kinabayo, which will be celebrated on July 25, is an exotic pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish War in the Battle of Covadonga.

Visiting the twin cities of Dipolog and Dapitan is now faster and affordable with the country’s low-fare leader Cebu Pacific (CEB). On board the brand new Airbus A319, you can fly to Dipolog for as low as R868 one-way.

Plan your trip early and book ahead to enjoy great savings with CEB’s yearround ‘Go’ fares. For booking and other inquiries, please log on to www.cebupacificair.com.