Cebu is one of the must-see places in the Philippines. It represents what a tourist would expect in a tropical country Philippines: white beaches, sunny weather, coconut trees, mangoes, picturesque sceneries, festive mode and music (Cebuanos are great singers). Plus, it brings the rustic lifestyle in an urban setting. No matter how cosmopolitan Cebu is, life is simpler, compared to well-developed cities. It does not take hours or night just to reach the beach. And if you are lucky enough, you can live just a few steps from the beach. Everything you need is within your reach. The mall is just a stone throw away. Museums and other popular tourist spots are like everywhere. And lastly, you do not need to travel far to see paradise.

 

Sneak Peak of Cebu

Cebu, a province 365 miles away from Manila, has been named as one of the best islands of Asia by Travel+Leisure magazine, an American publication in New York. It has been known to the world as one of the most livable islands. Last 2007, United Kingdom based Condé Nast Traveler Magazine cited Cebu as the seventh  best island destination in the Indian Ocean-Asia region.Cebu lies to the west of Leyte and Bohol, and to the east of Negros.

Cebu attracts expats, foreigners, and other Filipinos from different parts of the Philippines, not only because of its natural sceneries, but also because of its progress as one of the most developed provinces in the Philippines. It is center for business, education, and trade. It is no wonder why you can see a lot of Koreans, Caucasians, and other nationalities in the street and in the malls.

Cebu is an ideal place to settle down or retire. Aside from the fact that you can almost find everything you need in Cebu, you are also protected against natural disasters. Cebu rarely experiences major typhoons.Cebu is not within the equator belt. So, you can really expect earthquakes to occur.

Historical Significance of Cebu

Cebu got its name from the word, “Sebu,” which means animal fat. People who live in Cebu use to live in houses made of Bamboo. The original natives of Cebu had tattoos, jewelry and silks.

It is evident that Cebu has been a venue for trade and commerce. Before the Philippines became a colony of Spain, Chinese would trade their porcelains, and, silks in Cebu.

The arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 AD marked the historical significance of Cebu. This is the time when Spaniards introduced Christianity to the natives of Cebu.  He converted Rajah Humabon, the island’s ruler to a Christian. Later on, Lapu-Lapu, the first national hero, resisted the invasion of foreigners to their lead. He killed Magellan in the battle of Mactan. There, we have the famous tourist spots of Cebu: Lapu-Lapu Monument and Magellan’s Cross.

Where to Visit in Cebu

Mactan Shrine

Before Cebu was known as one of the best tourist destinations in the Philippine, it was known as a historical place where a young brave native killed a Portuguese maritime explorer. A monument was built in  memory of the first Filipino hero who resisted Spanish rule.

Magellan’s cross

Located in the heart of Cebu, a cross stands still. It is the  wooden cross  carried by Magellan in 1521. The cross signified the colonization of the country with the rule of King Philip of Spain. The cross is inside a kiosk covered by a roof with some painting of how Magellan came, conquered and defeated.

Taoist Temple

On top of the hills where it’s breezy and breathtaking, an ancient Chinese architects calls some meditation. The Taoist temple keeps the teachings of Lao-Tse. It does not sound relaxing at all because you need to climb 81 steps before you can reach the temple.

Tops

Want a romantic spot? Visit Tops, the high hills overlooking the wide view of Metro Cebu. Many marriage proposals, many kisses, many hugs happened on top of the hills. So if you are on honeymoon or just a simple picnic, go there but make sure you have car  (no public transportation heading there).

Beaches

Beaches are always convenient in Cebu. Within your neighborhood, you can go to the nearby  beaches of Mactan. There are a lot to choose from or check in a hotel where the beach is just door steps away from you.

Big Foot

Just around the small island of Mactan, you can see an International Film Academy. See? That’s how small and how easy to move around in Cebu. With just a small turn, there’s a mall, there’s a beach, then there’s a film school. Expats, Asians travel this far just to study film making. Interestingly, of all the places in the world, of all the places in Asia and of all the places in the Philippines, they chose Cebu. Probably, there are good shooting sites for film making. The school is situated across the shoreline (beach again!)

Guitar Factories

And just around the vicinity of the Mactan island, there are guitar factories. Have I told you Cebu is also a home of musicians? Cebuanos do not only sing well but they also strum the guitar very well. This is because of their high quality guitars. Going to Cebu is also an educational trip for sites. You learn history, culture, and how-to-do knowledge.

Old Churches

Old churches are mystic. They bring you back to another period, another civilization. Cebu, like any other places in the Philippines has massive Catholic followers. These churches are remnants of what Spanish did to the faith of the Filipinos. Another historical treat for you is to visit the cathedral, built in 1591.

Basilica Minor Del Santo Nino was a remembrance of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Fr. Andres Urdaneta. It had a long history. The image of  Santo Nino made this place popular. According to historical accounts, Magellan handed this image of Santo Nino to Queen Juana as a gift of her baptism.  The church was then put to fire  in 1568. In 1602, the administration of Juan Albaran rehabilitated the church in 1740. During  the World War, a bomb fell on the building but the image of Santo Nino remained undestroyed. Today, many Catholic devotees believe that the image of Santo Nino makes miracles.

Here’s a list of Churches in Cebu:

• Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City
• Carcar Church: St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish Church
• Boljoon Church
• Dalaguete Church
• Argao Church: Church of St. Michael the Archangel
• Pardo Church: Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva
• Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
• Naga Church: Church of San Francisco de Asis
• San Fernando Church: Church of San Isidro Labrador
• Carcar Church: Santa Catalina de Alejandria
• Oslob Church
• Talisay Church: Parish of Sta. Teresa de Avila

Celestial Garden (Banawa Hills, Cebu City)

This garden is another religious place: a cemetery and memorial park. If you are going for holy week vacation, you might include it in your list of must-see places for contemplation and reflection. The Celestial Garden has 12 stations of the cross showing the life of Jesus Christ.

The park has 12 hectares of rolling hills. The trees, the hilltop views give you peace of mind. Before, you enter, you can see two imposing aches with the statutes of two saints. The park is owned by Tanchan Foundation. This is place of serenity and tranquility.

Crocolandia

If you’re having a vacation with your family, bring them to Crocolandia, a habitat of endangered species. You will also meet Lapu-Lapu, not the hero, but the six-meter long saltwater crocodile. It also has other mammals, birds, and other reptiles.

Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary

In Macopa Street of Cebu, you can a home of beautiful flying objects. Jumalon Butterfly Sanctuary keeps 53 species of butterflies and some of them can only be found in the Philippines. This is first in the Philippines. It was established in 1974.  There are also different kinds of plants which serve as the butterflies’ food supplement. If you want and educational family trip, go here.

Museums

Retelling the history will never be complete without museums. Museo Sugbo preserves the long history of Cebu. The building itself has a long history from a provincial jail guarding those who fight against spanish rule to a horse stable. Then, it turned to be a home of popular Youtube dancing inmates. Now, it houses old photos, artifacts, papers and city’s details that we might forget if not retold. It is where you will found that Cebu had a train and a railroad even before Manila had MRT and LRT.

In Lopez Jaena Street, you can find a home  showing Filipino lifestyle during the Spanish era. Casa Gorordo Museum used to be the home of the first Filipino Bishop in Cebu. The museum preserves old household items and furniture.

Here is a list of other museums:

• Cebu City Museum
• Fort San Pedro National Museum
• Pres. Sergio Osmeña Memorabilia and CAP Art Gallery
• Southwestern University Museum
• St. Theresa’s College Museum
• University of San Carlos Biology Museum
• University Museum
• University of Southern Philippines Rizaliana Museum

Bagacay Lighthouse

Traveling around 18 kilometers north of Cebu City is like traveling back time. Liloan, a small municipality of Cebu Province named Liloan, has a famous landmark, the Bagacay Point Lighthouse. It was built in 1904, during American colonial period. It stands 72 feet tall on a hill. From there, you can see Mactan Channel. It has been the northern star of navigators and fishermen of the towns in Cebu for a centennial. This lighthouse will remind you of movies like A Very Long Engagement, chic flicks, and other romance films and even horror films. Bring your camera, wear a vintage attire, project, and click.

Where to Stay in Cebu

Don’t worry too much on where you are going to stay. There are a lot of hotels and resorts you can choose from. Cebu has five-star hotels, cheap yet fancy hotels, a beach hotels and a whole lot more.

Here are some of the popular choices:

Shangri-la

If you want to have a luxurious experience near the beach, stay in Shangri la Mactan Resort. Relax and have a spa. It is only 15-minute away from the airport. It ranks 2^nd among Cebu Hotels on Tripadvisor popularity index. Because it’s a five star hotel, it’s a bit pricey. It has 537 rooms and suites.

Friends and families can make the most of their with the hotel’s recreational facilities.

Release you stress by visiting their spa village. It is private place where you can find a garden patio, herbal steam, sunken tub, a room, and a shower.

If adults are having lots of fun, then children should have too. There’s a toddle zone, an indoor playground for children aged 3 years and below. Kids can safely climb, swing, and hang on the ropes.

For entertainment, you can play and sing in their E-Zone. It has a TimeZone arcade, countless video games, a sports lounge, two karaoke rooms which almost has a complete list of songs you like. And of course, a health club, a gym, and a massage room are always there to keep you physically

Lastly, explore the 350 meter private beach cove. You can do a lot of physical yet fun activities such as  scuba diving, kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, and other water sports. You can ride a speedboats or have some wind surfing. Just in case you get tired of the sea, you might opt to play in the tennis court.

Shangri-la is located at Punta Engano Road of Mactan, Cebu. For more information, email mac@shangri-la.com or call (63 32) 231 0288 .

Plantation Bay

Another very popular choice for family vacation and honeymoon is Plantation Bay.  If you’re planning to have a summer escaped with a large group, Plantation Bay has a lot to offer. It has a man-made beach which has real salt water. Shout out zip-a-dee-dah zip-a-deee-ay as you go through their gigantic slide surrounding the waterfalls. And it’s a long way going down the water. To unwind, you can order a drink in their floating bar. A huge pool is inside the hotel area. Their restaurant also serves American food such as burgers, ribs, and buffalo wings. Guests can swim all day and all night in the saltwater lagoons and freshwater pools. They can also use the fitness center and game room activities. If you get tired of swimming, you can try wall climbing. You don’t have to worry how to get a ride going through airport. They have round trip scheduled airport transfers.

Plantation bay is found in  Marigondon, Mactan Island of Cebu. For more information, call Tel. + 63 – 32 – 505 9800 or email them  guest@plantationbay.com.

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort

An alternative for Plantation Bay is Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort. It has three lagoon-shaped pools. They have facilities for water sports such as jet-skiing, scuba-diving, snorkeling and island-hopping.

You always have something to look forward at Maribago. They arrange monthly activities and events. Every Saturday evening, they organize a Barrio Fiesta (County Feast) with cultural show. For sports enthusiasts, they have tennis court, beach volleyball, and life-sized chessboard. There’s a playground and kiddie playroom. Guests can feed fish at the Marine Wildlife Lagoon where black tip reef sharks, grouper, clown fish and other kinds of fish.

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort is located at Maribago, Buyong of Mactan Island in Cebu. For inquiries, call +63 32 492-0100 / 232-5411 or email them at  maribago@bluewater.com.ph.

Waterfront Hotel and Casino

While strolling around the city of Cebu, a glamorous castle will catch your attention. It is conveniently located in Cebu’s financial district and close to city malls. The hotel has 562 spacious guestrooms. Their friendly staff will welcome you. You can choose from various restaurants inside Waterfront.  They serve Chinese, Japanese, American, and Italian cuisine. Guest rooms are spacious. It has complete facilities. The hotel provides 24 hr room service. It has a coffee shop, a family room, laundry service, and babysitting service. For recreation, it has an outdoor pool, a pool for kids, a gym, a spa and a garden.

Waterfront is found in Salinas Drive, Lahug. For more information, call (6332) 232-6888 or send them an email at wcch@waterfronthotels.net

Marriott Hotel

This international hotel is strategically situated in the heart of Cebu. The Cebu City Marriott Hotel provided a world-class service, just like all other Marriott hotels. This is perfect for business trip or for those in a hurry to shop. Parties, weddings, business meeting, and press conference are often held here.  A buffet meal in Marriot is one valid reason why you should check in. you will find all kinds of bread, meat, salad and other mouth-watering dishes.

It is located next to Ayala mall. And if you need a night life, go to Ayala Mall. The mall does not sleep and it has a beautiful landscape. Ayala Mall is not like most malls you see in the city. It has a pie shape and has some high-end shops.

For details, call 63 32 4115800 for details

Cebu Midtown Hotel

If you want another place near a mall, try Cebu Midtown Hotel. In fact, the mall is just downstairs. It’s found on Fuentes Osmena, one of the busiest places of Cebu. They have 200 fully furnished rooms.  They have handicap-friendly rooms. This is a great spot for business trip and for impromptu meetings. Also, dining at Cebu Midtown Hotel has cozy ambiance. You can enjoy your dinner while you listen to some piano music. For warm conversations, hang out at Orchid bar.  If you want to make a reservation, dial +6332 2539711 or email cmhsales@skyinet.net.

Here’s a list of Cebu’s Resort Hotels

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort

Department of Tourism classified Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort As Triple A
Address: Maribago, Buyong, Mactan Island
Phone: +63 32 492-0100 / 232-5411
Email address: maribago@bluewater.com.ph

Cebu Beach Club Resort (Mactan Island)

Address: Buyong, Lapu-Lapu City,
Phone: +63(32) 340-7994, +63(32) 340-7998
Email Address:  cbclub@mozcom.com

Alegre Beach Resort (Sogod- Northeastern coast of Cebu)

This resort is a place where you can share special moments. It is private, perfect for honeymoon.
Address: Calumboyan , Sogod, Cebu
Phone: +63 (0) 32 2311198
Email Address: reserve@alegrebeachresort.com

EGI Resort and Hotel (Mactan Island)

This Three Star Hotel can make your holidays specials.
Address: Looc, Maribago
Phone: (+63-32) 232-3111 to 15

Cordova Reef Village Resort(Mactan Island)

Address: Bantayan, Poblacion, Cordova, Cebu
Phone: (6332) 236 3343/ (6332) 238 1878/ (6332) 236 3344/ (6332) 496 8079
Email Address:  reservations@cordovareef.com

Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel  (Mactan Island)

Costabella is an ideal pace for outdoor activities.
Address: Buyong,Mactan Island
Phone: +63.32.231.4244
Email Address: rsvn@costabellaresort-cebu.com

Cebu White Sands (Mactan Island)

Another Luxurious Place
Phone: (63 32) 268 9000, 495 2226
Email Address: cebu@whitesands.com.ph

Tubod Flowing Waters Resort

If you are sick of seawater, swim in Cebu finest Spring Resort.
Address: Tubod Minglanilla
Phone: 272-8717

Hotels  Found in the city of Cebu

Cebu Grand Hotel

Address: Cebu Capitol Complex, North Escario St.
Phone: +6332) 2546331   (+6332) 2546339   (+6332) 2546361   (+6332) 2546362
Email Address: info@cebugrandhotel.com

Cebu Midtown Hotel

Address: Fuente Osmeña  Phone: +6332 2539711

Crown Regency Hotel and Towers

Address: Tower 1, Fuente Towers, Osmena Boulevard, Sta. Cruz
Phone: +63 (32) 418-8888
Email Address: reservations@crownregency.com

Days Hotel Cebu

If you don’t want to be late for your flight, stay here.
Address: Airport Road Matumbo Hills,Lapu-Lapu City
Phone: 63-32-4955381

Holiday Plaza Hotel

Address: F. Ramos Street   Phone: (6332) 2547643

Sarrosa International Hotel and Residential Suites

Address: F. Cabahug St. Cor. Pres. Quirino , Ayala Access road, Mabolo
Phone: (63 32) 232-5811 to18
Email: sarrosa_sae@yahoo.com / reservations_sarrosa@yahoo.com

Mango Park Hotel

Address: General Maxilom Avenue
Phone: (032) 233-1511 up to 14
Email Address: mangoparkhotel@yahoo.com

Parklane International Hotel

Address: Archbishop Reyes Avenue and Escario St.,
Phone: (63 32) 411-7000

Rajah Park Hotel

Address: Fuente Osmeña
Email Address: info@rajahparkhotel.com
Phone: (06332) 412-3337; 253-1812

Richmond Plaza Hotel

Address: F. Sotto Drive, Gorordo Avenue
Email Address: info@richmondhotelcebu.com
Phone: (+63) 32 232-0361/ (+63) 32 232-4616 to 17

Affordable Hotels

Alpha City Suites

Address: Corner Hernan Cortes and F. Cabahug Streets (Ayala Access Road)
Phone: (+6332) 516-1425

Alba Uno Residencia

Address:Villa Amores Compound, Lahug Apas Cebu City
Phone: (032) 505- 2111
Email Address: reservation@albauno.com

Days Hotel Plaza

Address: Airport Rd Matumbo Pusok Hills

Diplomat Hotel

Address: 90 F. Ramos Street   Phone: +6332-2530099

Golden Valley Hotel

Address: 155A Pelaez Street
Phone: (6332) 253-8660
Email Address: reservations@goldenvalleyhotel.net

Gran Prix Econotel Cebu

Address: 3rd Floor Coast Pacific Building Corner F. Ramos Street Gen. Maxilom Avenue
Phone: +63 (32) 254 9169
Email Address: cebu.granprix@yahoo.com

Hotel Pier Quatro

Address: 3rd Avenue, North Reclamation Area
Phone: (032) 236-1111
Email Address: hotelpiercuatro@gmail.com

Holiday Spa Hotel

Address: Gov. M. Cuenco Ave. Banilad
Phone: (032) 2365220/ (032) 2392264 – 65/  (032) 5185978
Email Address: cebuholidayspahotel@yahoo.com

Hotel Stella

Address: Don Gil Garcia Street Capitol Site
Phone: (032) 239-0249 / (032) 236-0260 /(032) 239-0251
Email address: thehotelstella@yahoo.com

Mango Park Plaza

Address: General Maxilom Avenue
Phone: (6332)233-5695

Maxwell Hotel

Address: N. Escario St., Brgy. Camputhaw
Phone: (+63-32) 255-8700 / (+63-32) 255-7800
Email Address: themaxwellhotel@gmail.com

Metro Park Hotel

Address: Saint Lawrence St., Lahug
Phone: (063) (032) 233-2352 / 233-3883 / 233-3887 / 233-3677 / 233-0130

NS Royal Pensione Hotel

Address: NS Royal Pensione is located in Juana Osmena St.
Phone: +6332 2545358

Sampaguita Suites

Address: 2nd Floor, JRG Building (formerly the Belvic Theatre) General Maxillom Avenue (Mango Avenue)
Phone: (032) 253-3672 /(032) 253-5964

Century Plaza Hotel

Address: Juana Osmeña Street
Phone: (63) (32) 255-1697 / 412-6673

What to do

Island hopping

Cebu is popularly known for island hopping. For every island you go, you can dive, snorkel, bird watching or just sight-seeing. These islands are considered to be the best places for these activities.

Scuba-diving

Cebu waters has a temperature of 27 to 30 C which explains why  it has been one of the best diving destinations in the world.  Cebu is also rich in tropical fishes and coral reefs.

If you are interested on island hopping, check out  Hilutungan Island, the Moalboal and Pescador in the southern part of Cebu.

Parasailing

You can fly without wings. It’s possible with parasailing. Parasailing is a recreational activity where you go up in the air with a parachute as you are connect to a boat sailing. There are no special skills required for this sport. You just have to be brave.

You will be secured with nylon harnesses. Fear not. The captain and his crew member will take care of you because they have gone through Parasailing Boasting Association. In just a few seconds, you are in the sky. It’s like borrowing heaven’s eyes as you get wide picture of Mactan island.You have the choice to go solo or to have a partner along the ride. Children ages, 7 years and above can also join as long as they have the right weight and height and they need to have an adult with them.

Snorkeling and Bird-watching

Engage in these activities in the island of Olango where migratory birds rest.

Shopping

Cebu is a good play to shop because it’s cheap and almost has everything. So, you don’t need to pack a lot of stuff if you plan traveling. Almost everything you need is available. But, do prepare some space in your luggage when you’re coming back to your home. You might be tempted to buy a little bit of this and that. There are plenty of bazaars and malls in Cebu. If you want fresh fruits and a variety of vegetables, go to Carbon Market.  If you want a good shopping experience, go to Minglanilla. It is a place where you can find a row of shops catering to different kinds of customers. If you plan to buy a large bulk of goodies, pass buy Colon street. The street has lot of small shops that sell clothes, accessories, jewelries and a whole lot more. The good thing about shopping in Colon is that you can bargain but be careful in walking around that area. The place is quite crowded. Just be street smart and street alert. But if convenience and safety is what you really care most, the two giant malls, SM and Ayala, have arms wide open.

Biking

Cebu is a city but you can still breathe fresh air. You can see the beauty of Cebu as you bike going to Tops. Spare 45 minutes or an hour for you biking activity.

Zipline

Another way to experience flying is to go for ziplining. If parasailing makes you feel like a balloon floating on air, ziplining makes you feel like a bird soaring in the sky. Zipline involves a pulley, suspended on cable. Ziplines are quite new in the Cebu but are becoming popular.

To avail this adventure, you can contact Hidden Paradise, Cebu Zipline in Busai, Adventure Cafe, and K33.

Swim in Waterparks

If you get tired with salt water, slide, and swim in in waterparks. Check  Imperial Palace Resort and the new Talima Waterpark.

Night life in Cebu

Cebu is alive at day and night. Cebu islanders have a busy wild night during weekends. Cebuanos usually jam at IT Park, Mango Avenue and Crossroads.

Sinulog Festival

The most awaited event of Cebu is Sinulog Festival which is held every third Sunday of January in Cebu. It is a colorful and lively dance ritual in honor of Santo Nino or whom they call child Jesus, the patron saint of Cebu. Pedestrians, tourists and locals gather along the streets to witness the celebration of Santo Nino.

According to history, the Portuguese, Ferdinand Magellan brought the wooden Santo Nino to Cebu. Since then, it has been a symbol of Christianity conversion to the natives of Cebu. Up to now, people look forward to watch Sinulog.

Where to Eat

Cebu has a lot of restaurants to choose from. You will have a wide food selection in Cebu.

Neo Neo’s Grill House

If you want fresh grilled seafood and Cebu dishes, visit this place. It feels like you are in a Cebuano’s home when you dine there.  The well-known grill house has outlets at Juan Luna Ave., Mabolo, Cebu City; M.C. Cuenco, Banilad, Cebu City and Gorordo, Beside Kia-Gorordo Cebu City.

You may make reservations by calling these numbers:  +63.32.232-6688 / +63.32.344-6688 / +63.32.236-6688 /+63.32.233-0838

Mamma Maria’s Pizzeria

If you are looking for Italian food, go to Mamma Maria Pizzeria. It has lots of pizza flavors. They even have a pizza with crocodile meat.  It is found in Asiatown IT Park, Lahug. Prepare a budget of P500 to P1,000 for your food.

Ila Puti

If you are looking for a place where your can have a family dinner, this place is for you. They serve Asian dishes. Plus, they, don’t charge you that much.

Address: GF Ethan House Bldg., Gov. M. Cuenco Ave. , Gov. M. Cuenco Ave. , Mandaue City
Telephone No: (6332) 343-9053, 416-1865

Carlo’s Batchoy

Still need another option for an affordable meal? Dine at Carlo’s Batchoy. Found in Osmeña Boulevard, this small restaurant serves the best Daing na Bangus and Batchoy.

Ice Castle

Cebu is a hot place and if you need a place to keep you cool, go to ice castle. It’s a snack bar that has different kinds of deserts. It has the famous halo-halo, with sweetened fruits, nata de coco, and leche flan. You can also order banana splits, sundaes, and ice cream float. You can visit their other branches, Ayala Center Cebu, and Cebu Business Park. For more information, call (032) 415-8060

Dimsum Break

There’s a popular chain of Chinese restaurants in Cebu. Dimsum Break offers affordable Chinese meals. Customers’ favorites are siomai, pancit canton, siopao, steamed fish and steamed rice and a whole lot more.

Address: Colon St. Cebu City    Telephone: +63-32-2550333
Address: GMC Arcade, Lapu-Lapu City     Telephone: +63-32-3413388
Address: Gaisano Fiesta Mall, Tabunok, Talisay     Telephone: +63-32-4917979
Address: Banilad Town Centre, Banilad     Telephone: +63-32-3450111
Address: JY Square, Lahug     Telephone: +63-32-2310111

Laguna Garden Café

This place serves baked scallops, chicken pandan, the must-die-for lechon and crispy pata. For breakfast, you can order Kesong Puti (white cheese). For local sweets, suman(rice cake) and mango. Though it’s a little bit pricey,  a meal costs P300. You pay not only for the food but also for the ambiance which is suitable for all occasions. It is found at Level 2 The Terraces, Ayala Center, Cebu Business Park.

Jo’s Chicken Inato

Barbeque! Barbeque! Barbeque! If you are craving barbeque, then Jo’s Chicken Inato is the best place for you.  The restaurant has a superb Chicken barbeque that you’ll even order an extra rice. There are four branches of Jo’s Chicken Inato in Cebu. And you’ll go home without spending too much.

Address: H. Cortes St., Subangdaku, Mandaue City     Phone:(032) 2382101
Address:  V. Ranudo St.     Phone: (032) 2531862
Address:Salinas Drive, Lahug,     Phone: (032) 2340030
Address: Osmena Blvd., Capitol Site     Phone:.(032) 2554721

Krua Thai Authentic Thai Cuisine

They offer Thai meals which are appealing to those who like spicy food. They have crab meat, chicken with lime dressing, chicken in yellow curry, and prawn spring rolls. They have different ways of serving rice. They have Bagoong Fried Rice, Thai Rice with spicy prawn on top, and crab fried rice. For salads, they have Cucumber Thai Salad, Spicy Beef Salad, and Tuna Thai Salad. Their soups are also one of a kind. They have Tamarin Sour Seafood Soup, and Prawn in Coconut Milk Soup.

Address: Crossroad Hall         Phone: (6332) 233-9388
Address: SM City Cebu            Phone: (6332) 231-8388
Address: Mactan Marina Hall, Lapu-Lapu City          Phone: (6332) 495-4818
Address: Banilad Town Center, Lapu-Lapu City        Phone: (6332) 346-3588
Address: 1 Marina Mall,  Lapu-Lapu City        Phone: (6332) 495-4818
Address: Banilad Tower Centre, Gov M Cuenco Ave. , Gov M Cuenco Ave. , Mandaue City,        Phone: (6332) 346-3583, 344-2800

Persian Palate Restaurant

Want to try Middle Eastern food? Middle Eastern food should not be new to you. If you like shawarma, then go here and upgrade your taste buds. What can you expect from this kind of restaurant? Of course, there’s kababs, lamb meat and curry meats. If you are into veggies, you can order their biryani, a dish served with rice and tofu. Their vegetable meals are flavorful.Their best sellers are pitta sandwich, chapattis, and Persian pizza.

Address 1: Cebu Business Park / Phone Number: (232-5898)               Address 2: Banilad / Phone Number: (232-5898)

Golden Cowrie

This is one of the best restaurants found in SM mall. It is a good candidate for group meals with reasonable prices. They have good service and the food is unforgettable. Their bestellers are adobong kangkong, and seafood soups. They also jackfruit salad cooked in coconut milk. Other dishes to look forward include Adobong Talong, Pinakbet, Pancit Guisado,  Pancit Guisado, Sautéed Fresh Mushrooms, Baked Mussels, Tuna Fingers,  calamares, Bicol Express, Sinigang Baboy, Chicken Pandan,  Crispy Pata, Dinuguan, Sisig, Baked Scallops, and Laing.

You can also visit its branches in Lahug,  Ayala Terraces, Robinson’s Cybergate and Mactan.

List of Other Restaurants

Italian Restaurants

Cafè Orchidia
Address: Lahug Gorordo Avenue
Phone: 032 233 4054

Idea Italia
Address: Ayala Center, Cebu Business Park
Phone: (032) 232-4292

La Buona Forchettada Paolo
Address: 139 Acacia St., Camputhaw
Phone: (63 32) 231-3398 to 99

Seafood Restaurants

David’s Steak Seafood Restaurant
Address:  F Cabahug St., Mabolo
Phone: 2310157

East Ocean Seafood and Restaurant
Address: Ginza Compound., Inner Banilad Road
Phone: (63-32)232-5885

Olio  Restaurant and Lounge
Address: M. J. Cuenco Avenue
Phone: +63(32)2323589

Chinese Restaurants

Grand Majestic Convention City
Address1:Archbishop Reyes Ave.
Phone:(63-32)232-1103

The Ching Palace
Address: Salinas Drive
Phone.:(63-32)412-7288

A   Taste of  Mandarin
Address: 2/F Gaisano Country Mall, Banilad Road
Phone.:(63-32)232-4845/231-1481

Thai Restaurants
Spicefusion (also serve Singaporean, Malaysian, and Chinese)
Address: South East Asian Fusion, Banilad Town Center
Phone: (63-32)344-2933

Filipino Food
Abarseriadeli & Cafè
Address: 39B Congressman Noel St., Kasambagan
Phone: (+032)234-4160/233-8339/231-2019

Baseline Restaurant
Address: Juana Osmena St.
Phone: (6332) 2538781

Chika-Ansa Cebu
Address: 42  Salinas Drive, Lahug
Phone: (63-32)233-0350/233-0358

Lighthouse Restaurant
Address: Maxilom Avenue,
Phone: 032 231 2178

Fisher Man’s Net Restaurant
Address: Lahug
Phone: (234-4023)

Japanese Restaurants
Sen Ryu Japanese Restaurant
Address: Lahug
Phone: (234-2547)

Azimino Japanese Restaurant
Address: # 1 Paseo Saturnino Doña Luisa Rd., Banilad

Ginza Restaurant, Inc.
Address: Banilad
Phone: (232-5406)

Vietnamese Restaurant
Hai Phong
Address:Unit II, Crossroads Mall, Banilad
Cebu City
Phone: (032) 233-9388

KoreanRestaurants
Yuhee Jeong
Address:Edison St., Lahug
Phone:(+032)234-2079

Must Buy in Cebu

Otap

It is a sweet oval biscuit sprinkled with sugar. It is a well known ‘pasalubong’ (token) of Cebu. Be careful when you eat though because you might get messy with its fragments. It easily breaks into pieces. You can bring them home without having much problem because it’s handy and you can find them everywhere in Cebu. If you’re on the rush going to airport and forget to buy something made in Cebu, don’t worry otap is available on food stores and souvenir shops. When you’re at the seaport, a vendor will approach you with bunches of Otap. But if you want to know where it originated, go to Shamrock. Shamrock was the first store come up these Cebuano sweets. Go to their main manufacturing site in Cebu.

Cebu Shirts

Brag to others that you’ve been to one of the best summer islands by wearing Cebu shirts. These shirts are available on all malls. Cebu has a new shirt design. You can now have an I-love-Cebu shirt. The price of these shirts ranges from Php 250 to PhpP600.

Danggit/ Dried Fish

This is one of the best ‘pasalubong.’ Dried fish is a rich source of protein, Vitamin B and Calcium. Pair it with rice and tomatoes for breakfast. Visit Taboan market for a wide selection of fishes.

Guitar

Choose and buy the best guitar in Cebu. Find it in Alegre Guitar Factories. Be a professional guitarist. Freddie Aguilar, a famous folk singer whose song “Anak” has been translated in many languages all over the world, uses a Cebu guitar.

Handicrafts

Cebuanos are highly skillful. If you want to bring home some native souvenirs, visit the oldest street of Cebu and in the Philippines, colon street. In the street, many sell handicrafts like lampshades, abaca bags, ash strays, and coral boxes.

Lechon

Lechon, roasted pig, is found everywhere in the Philippines. It makes a party special. But lechon in Cebu is exceptional. You can eat lechon without the need of sauce, unlike other roasted meat. Its flavor reaches underneath its skin. Order the best lechon in town at Kangs, and CNT.

Puso

It is directly translated as heart. It is basically rice covered with coconut leaves forming a hear shape. You usually find them in streets where you can have barbeque.

Dried Mango

You do not need a spoon to eat mangoes. You can have mangoes in your hands without being messy as long as they are dried mangoes. They are fun snacks found in all grocery stores and in all hotel rooms in Cebu have dried mangoes.

Chicharon

If you want to have some bonding time with your friends, chicharon (fried pork rinds) is the best finger food. It’s a dried fat and is made from the skin of a pig. Bring some home and let your friends experience the great sound of its crunch in every bite. Chicharon is made from the skin of a pig. It tastes good especially if you dip some vinegar or soy sauce in it. In Cebu, the Chicharon is made in Carcar. They have the best Chiharon in town.

Ampao

Ampao is a native delicacy of Cebu. It is processed sweetened rice. It can also be found in Carcar.

Rosquillos

They are flower-shaped cookies created in the municipality of Cebu. Mixed with flour, eggs, sugar and baking powder, there you have the well-loved Cebu cookies.

Transportation

You have a lot of options in getting to Cebu. You can travel by air or by sea. All national airlines have Cebu flights. You can inquire in Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Zest Air.  There are also international flights from Singapore, Hongkong and others.

If you want to travel by sea, you can have a trip with Super Ferry and Negros Navigation coming from Manila, Davao, Iloilo. There are also shipping lines that offer trips to smaller provinces.

What you need to know

• Flagdown for taxi in Cebu is Php 30.
• A jeepney ride costs around Php7 to Php20.
• Cebu has land area of 508, 444 hectares.
• It has temperature of 27 ° C all year round.
• Cebu is composed of six cities Cebu, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Toledo and Talisay; and its 47 smaller towns.
• Take note:

Banks: 09:00 to 15:00, Monday to Friday
Government Offices: 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday
Department Stores and Shops: 09:00 to 19:00, daily
Business Offices: 09:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday; 09:00 to 12:00, Saturday

Tips

• If you don’t how to speak their local language, Cebuano, speak English.
• When is the right time to visit? It depends. If you think you can’t handle heat, visit Cebu from any dates in December to February. If you’re ready to get sun burns, schedule your trip from March to May.
• Bring sun block cream.
• Buy flip-flops. You will be walking a lot and going to the beach a lot. So, please do.
• Wear light clothes.
• If you are going to walk the narrow streets of the city, be mindful of your things. As much as possible, do not bring valuable things.

Suggestions

If you are on tight budget, here are some ways on how you can explore Cebu without throwing large sums of money.

• Choose a budget airlines: Cebu Pacific, Air Asia and Tiger Airways. Sometimes, they offer discounts and promos.
• Ride a jeepney or tricycle if you plan short trips in the City.
• Instead of staying in a five-star hotel, opt to choose small hotels listed above.
• There are lots of budget accommodations around Cebu. Normal rates per person can be as low as as Php 300 to as much as Php 1,000 per night.
• Food is not a big problem. There are a lot of restaurants to choose from, other than fast food chains.
• Even in your tight budget, you can still afford the must-see in Cebu. These are the Basilica de Sto Nino, Magellan’s Cross, Taoist Temple and Lapu-Lapu’s Monument, Cebu like the Santa Rosa Falls, Mt. Manghilaw and the Olango Wildlife sanctuary that do not charge for admission.