Cebu, the oldest city of the country is a culturally rich province in the Visayas with natural wonders, lively maritime activities and historical sightseeing.
What To Do
Once landed, Mactan is a hub in Cebu for scuba diving and island hopping to nearby islands for snorkelling among bright coral reefs.
While in city province, check out Magellan’s Cross a classic artefact of Roman Catholicism in Asia housed in a polygonal dome next to Basilica del Santo Nino, the oldest church in the Philippines. Plaza Indepedencia is another significant place that captures Spanish colonialism in the country with a historical Fort San Pedro by the pier.
For the outdoor enthusiast, travel down south to Oslob just a 3 hours bus ride from Cebu city to view the magnificent Tumalog Falls or have a gutsy swim with whale sharks at Tan-awan. For a more picturesque venue, visit Cancuaay Beach known for its clear
How To Get There
Fly with AirAsia for a direct flight to Cebu from Kuala Lumpur and you will reach Mactan-Cebu International Airport within 4 hours. It is advisable to use habal-habal (motorcycle taxi), taxis and car-for-hire services to navigate around Cebu.
Where To Eat
Pork is common poultry in Cebu. Lechon is traditional roasted pork rubbed with herbs and spices while ginabot is fried pork intestines and sautéed pork brain is known as tuslob buwa.
Also try balut, an aphrodisiac egg with a duck embryo inside for you to suckle the good nutrients. These Cebu culinary street foods are famous among locals and tourists alike.
Where To Stay
Live in style in an art deco boutique room at The Henry Hotel set in the city centre. The lobby charms with rustic fashion furniture while the guestrooms burst in colours with industrial street style interior. At Oslob, bask in the sun and salty air at Jaynet Oceanview Resort by the beach that is within walking distance to the city’s chapel and Cebu’s Eli Rock.
Local Tips & Facts
- Philippines’ annual religious event, the Sinulog- Santo Nino Festival, is held in Cebu. Join their grand street parade on January 15th to honour Jesus.
- Guitar-making in Cebu is known for its excellent quality and affordability. It is often bought as souvenirs at Lapu-Lapu city.
- From November till April, the dry season makes it the best time to visit the Philippines and its islands.
Text by Jessy Wong
