The thrilling white water rafting is the main attraction and destination in Cagayan de Oro City. But, did you know that they are also known as the "City of the Golden Friendship?" Though there's a language barrier, I totally agree that they are the city of friendship because I was able to experience such hospitality from the jeepney driver and the taho vendor I met. By the way, nothing special happened during my stay here. Since it's the center of Northern Mindanao, transportation to my next destination (Bukidnon) is not a problem. It is also the gateway to the province of Camiguin, Bukidnon, Agusan and the city of Davao.
1. Museo de Oro
The next day, early in the morning after breakfast, using Google Maps, had my walking tour to Plaza Divisoria, Gaston Park, the City Museum, and . Like the other cities, the streets of CDO are busy and it's better to walk than to ride in a trike or jeepney.
2. St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral
At Gaston Park, I saw a historical marker that states that "Bago magbukang-liwayway noong Abril 7, 1900, ang lakas panghimagsikan ng Batalyong Mindanao sa pamumuno ni Heneral Nicolas Capistrano ay nagsagawa ng isang biglaang pagsalakay sa ikaw-40 rehimiyento na binubo ng mga boluntaryo ng Estados Unidos sa pamumuno ni Medyor James Case. Sa pagtatanggol sa kanilang minamahal na bansa. Ilang daang magigiting na Pilipinong manghihimagsik ang namatay sa labanang ito."
OTHER TOURIST SPOTS IN CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY:
3. Whitewater Rafting
4. Seven Seas Waterpark & Resort
5. Catanico Falls
6. Kweba de Oro
7. Divine Mercy Shrine
8. Paragliding at Sierra del Oro
9. Larry’s Hill Adventure Hub
10. Macahambus Cave
HOW TO GET HERE:
From Manila, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have regular trips to CDO Laguindingan Airport. By the airport's entrance, ride in a van to the city.
CLICK TO VIEW AFFORDABLE PLACES TO STAY IN CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY:
I stayed at GV Hotel near Gaisano Mall. I spent 550 pesos (price might change without prior notice) for an overnight stay in a room with single bed, AC, cable T and WiFi. This is accessible to Agora Terminal. Other budget hotels are D'Morvie Suites and G-Galyx. These hotels are searchable on Google Maps mobile application. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, and Davao City.