Why Go?
Cebu, the Queen City of the South, is one of the major cities in the Philippines. It has everything you would expect from a metropolitan area. However, traffic here is significantly more bearable and life is neither too fast nor too slow. Also, the beaches and caves are only a few hours away from the city.
When to Go?
The Philippines is a tropical country so any time of the year is a good time to go to Cebu. The driest months are March, April, and May; while the wettest months are June, July, and August. Mid-January is the best time to visit Cebu as the temperature is much cooler. It is also when Sinulog, one of the biggest and grandest festivals in the country, is celebrated.
How?
The main point of entry to the city is the Mactan-Cebu International Airport located on Mactan Island. It is one of the major international hubs in the country and is approximately 30 minutes away from the city center.
See
Buy a candle from one of the ladies inside the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu. She’ll pray for you while doing a small dance, increasing your blessing. Observe local religious traditions and marvel at the magnificence of this church that was built in the 16th century. Head to Tops in Busay for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The high altitude and the panoramic view of the city skyline are a perfect recipe for a chill-out night. The lifestyle destination that is the Cebu I.T. Park is a complex of modern structures, Business Process Outsourcing offices, shops, restaurants, bars, and condominiums. This is an area that almost doesn’t sleep. Even non-swimmers can enjoy the long stretch of white, powdery sand of the White beach in Moalboal. Colorful fishes and corals can be seen just a few steps from the shore. Balay sa Agta cave and Bugasok Falls in Argao are sure to satisfy adventure seekers. The path is so perilous that one wrong move can lead you to your end.
Eat and Drink
Lechon (roasted pig) is a must-try. Even Filipinos from other cities find Cebu’s lechon unrivalled in taste and crispiness so much so that many would bring home a box from CNT Lechon even if they already had their fill at the restaurant. Dining in an old Filipino home is how it feels like in Chika-an sa Cebu. The people behind this place sure know their stuff that every item on the menu is a hit to foreigners and locals alike. The ‘it’ crowd of Cebu knows how to party and they do it well at The Penthouse in I.T. Park. Ask the bartender for a glass of the classic margarita and it will leave you wanting for more.
Sleep
Crown Regency Hotel and Towers is smack at the heart of the city. The building glowing with colorful lights at night is an attraction in itself. They also offer the Sky Experience Adventure Tour which is guaranteed to give their guests an adrenaline rush. For the entertainment fiends, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino houses the largest casino in the city and is often the venue for conventions, exhibitions, and concerts. It is also of good proximity to malls, restaurants, bars, and other night spots. If your idea of a vacation is total relaxation, Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa would be an excellent choice. This 5-star hotel boasts of beachfront location, luxurious amenities, scrumptious food, and world-class service.
Here are additional options for where to stay in Cebu.
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