Halo-halo time at Dumaguete’s The Bean Connection

A lot of things, mostly good, have been said about Dumaguete City. Its laidback lifestyle, lower cost of living, and high regard for education and culture are perhaps the reasons why it's among Forbes' top places worldwide for people to retire, and it remains a favorite for prospective college students to study in.

But perhaps you can include a visit to a Dumaguete halo-halo place if you plan to visit here, because this city takes the experience to a whole new level.

The Bean Connection is a haven for many students in a university town such as Dumaguete. They serve rice bowls, cakes, fruit shakes, and coffee—a student's study menu.

Plus, with paintings in every corner and that coffee shop ambiance,  you'll understand why students—those from the famed Silliman University in particular—love this place so much. It also helps that it's just outside campus, making it a preferred venue for group or solo studies, dates, meetings, and hanging out in general.

During the hot days of summer, The Bean Connection offers something different: halo-halo. Though it may be a staple dessert for many Filipinos on days like this, the cafe has added its own touch to the classic.

It was the first time I saw Bean offer halo-halo, so I gave it a try. Having been accustomed to the trademark taste of the halo-halo in Metro Manila, trying a version of the dessert in Dumaguete was quite an experience.

The main attraction in Bean's halo-halo is the ube ice cream right on top of it. But it's not meant to be scooped out and eaten; it's supposed to be mixed with the other ingredients to form a unique harmonic taste (Well, that's pretty much the point of "halo-halo," right?).

Bean's version is like a musical ensemble: The nata de coco, mango, corn flakes, ube halaya, milk, sugar, and jello are instruments that, when mixed together right, create a melody in your mouth.

And your focus gets divided, because each ingredient (not to mention the ice) tries to grab your attention because everything's delicious.

Lami-a uy! —AT/KG, GMA News