Travel Log: Ozamiz City

… an old Spanish town

isamis was an Old Spanish town, which existed as far back as the Spanish era and was conquered strangely not by force of arms, but through faith by some Jesuit Missionaries. Though obscure, the origin of the name "Misamis" is believed to have been derived from the Subano word "Kuyamis" which is a variety of coconut. During the years the name persisted as an inference of geographical location and upon the advent of the Spanish settlers. The word "Kuyamis" easily gave way to the more conveniently pronounceable but corrupted word "Misamis".

HOW TO GET THERE
By Land
The city is accessible by motor vehicles and buses from various points in Mindanao.
By Sea
There are passenger vessels serving routes to and from Cebu, Manila, Tagbilaran, Dumaguete and Iloilo. Shipping companies serving the Ozamiz City port include WG&A, Supper Ferry, Silpicio Lines, Negros Navigation, and Trans Asia.
By Air
Air Philippines has daily direct flight from Ozamiz to Manila and vice versa, also Cebu to Ozamiz by PAL Express. Cebu Pacific Air, on the other hand, has direct flights from Ozamiz to Cebu and vice versa.

WHAT TO DO
Subayen Keg Subano Festival - a week-long festivity marking the feast of Nuestra Señora del Street dancing which highlights the lifestyles of the Subanons as depicted in songs, dances, and other forms of simulated social expression, participated by different private/public schools, 51 barangays, and government contingents, using creative costumes and props; they parade and mime along the streets, that gives way to the genuine, authentic Subanon culture and pageantry enacted for both show and benediction.

Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park - there are also a number of choices if one thinks about spending a day or planning an overnight in a resort where you can enjoy snorkeling or diving with other sea creatures and see the lovely coral reefs at the Dolphin Island.

WHAT TO EAT
Some foods to eat such as patatas de galletas, shrimps, prawns and crabs.

WHAT TO SEE
The Bells of Bukagan Hill - a tourist in Ozamiz City should never miss seeing the tower of the four great bells at the top of Bukagan Hill. They are worth the sweat and tires feet if one attempts to go up the hill on foot or the different phobias one experiences as the vehicle goes up. Aside from the wonder of the bells one gets a bonus, the beautiful scenarios around including the panorama of Ozamiz.

Fort Santiago: The Cotta of Ozamiz City - the Fort Santiago is located at the mouth of the Panguil Bay just behind the shrine. It was built in 1756 and has been the military stronghold from then and until now. Historical relics and records were displayed in the Fort's museum. It is also where the lighthouse was erected.

Malindang Country Golf Course - a pre-war army facility converted into a beautiful golf course lush with wellmaintained greens, located at the foot of Malindang Mountain

The Pipe Organ of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral - a tourist attraction right at the heart of Ozamiz is the pipe organ found in the choir loft of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. It is the only existing pipe organ in Mindanao and one among the few throughout the country.

Naomi's Botanical Garden - located about 1 ½ km. from the city southward and is 100 meters from the National Highway. The garden has a total area of 13 hectares, planted with all kinds of fruit trees (9 hectares) and ornamental plants (rose gardens, rare collection of flowering plants, orchids, bonsai). In addition to the plants, Naomi's has a ceramic shop producing home decor, jars, and office ornaments, among others.

For more information, check out www.travelsandtours.dingexx.com, www.allbestofphilippines.blogspot.com, www.ultimatediversity.com, www.tourism.gov.ph or www.ozamizcity.com