I was asking my friends what I could do in Cagayan de Oro City, or CDO, before this trip. Extreme water activities like river tubing and whitewater rafting were mentioned. I immediately dismissed all of their recommendations because, other from snorkeling, I have no interest in any water sports. I didn't bother to plan though because CDO is typically a transit city for people who want to explore Northern Mindanao. However, I was able to see a glimpse into people's everyday lives for 14 hours that I was there.
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On my 40th birthday, I decided to celebrate it with a four-day solo trip to Northern Mindanao. I flew from Manila to the island province of Camiguin (with a stopover at Cebu) and then flew back from Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental (around one hour away from Cagayan De Oro City). In those four days, I got to take a peek on the everyday ordinary lives of the people in CDO.
After spending a day in Camiguin, I stayed in CDO and looked for lodging options in the city. My trip to Bukidnon the next day prompted me to stay near the Agora Bus Terminal. My online search led me to an inn right inside the Agora Bus Terminal.
➤ BOOK CAGAYAN DE ORO ACTIVITIES HERE!
Winmin Transient Inn is conveniently located on the second level of the Agora Bus Terminal. What sets it apart from other accommodations is that they offer short-term stays for those who are waiting for their bus departures or so. My bus to Bukidnon wasn't leaving for another 14 hours, so I booked standard room for a 24-hour rate and shelled out ₱900.
The room was basic and shows a bit of ageing in the furniture and fixtures. The bathroom’s faucet was leaking and there were mosquitoes as well. There’s an AC, free WiFi, and TV.
I rested a bit and went down and took a jeepney going to Cogon Market where I heard was a market that turns into a street food haven at night. I specifically chose to seat beside the driver to get a better view of the city.
I got off at the market where I immediately sensed a vibe that’s similar to Divisoria in Manila which I love. I immediately looked for something to eat and saw a food cart that was packed with diners. They sell freshly-cooked fried chicken and skewered chicken innards.
I got some fried chicken wings at ₱30 each and steamed rice at ₱10 each. It was so crunchy, tasty, and moist that I immediately asked for a second one. I used plastic gloves and ate with my hands. I specifically loved their gravy and chunky chilli sauce.
I moved on to the next food stall and grabbed a balut with its yummy chilli sauce at ₱20. It was during this point that I realized that the chilli sauces in CDO are really good.
I had cheese ice cream for ₱10 afterwards and it was totally refreshing.
I went back to Winmin Transient Inn and prepared for my trip to Bukidnon the next day. It was a short stay in CDO but I find the city very organic and somewhat similar to major city hubs like Zamboanga City and Surigao City where residents from the surrounding areas go to buy cheaper food and other stuff.
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