29 September 2018

30 Things to Do in Cebu, Philippines


The Philippines is an archipelago that is made up of more than 7000 islands located in the Southeast Asia; one of the countries with the most island in the world. This is our very first time visiting the Philippines; with so many islands to choose from, we have randomly chosen Cebu to be our first destination in the Philippines. My first impression of the Philippines was rather surprised as I could see many churches; maybe because I have been traveling around the other Southeast Asian countries and mostly what I saw was the Buddhist culture and temples. Also, unlike her neighbouring countries, the Philippines is strongly influenced by the western culture due to the long history with the Spaniards and the Americans.

Cebu is a long and narrow island located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, and the largest city on this island is the Cebu City, also known as the Queen City of the South. Cebu city is a booming metropolis, if you desire a break from the hustle and bustle of the city life, you should simply travel out of the city. It is not difficult to find a good place to relax in Cebu as there are plenty of beautiful beaches and untouched nature surrounding this lovely Filipino island.

If you are planning to visit Cebu, check out this post and discover the best things to do in Cebu:


1. Eat Lechon Kawali


First thing first, fill your stomach with some local delicacies. The very first dish that I tried in Cebu was Lechon Kawali. This deep-fried crispy pork belly in a pan is a very popular Filipino dish and it has become my all time favourite food in Philippines. The Lechon Kawali that I had in the Clare restaurant was fried until golden brown with a super crunchy skin and the meat was very tender and juicy. Every bite is a taste of heaven!

Lechon Kawali at Clare Restaurant

<< Clare Restaurant >>


2. Go Around the Heritage of Cebu Monument


Next, begin your Cebu journey by going around the Heritage of Cebu Monument built by artist Eduardo Castrillo. The monument is a tableau of sculptures featuring some of the most important events in the history of Cebu. This amazing work is located in the heart of town worth a stopover before exploring the other nearby attractions.


<< Heritage of Cebu Monument >>


3. Time Travel in the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House


Just a few steps away from the Heritage of Cebu Monument, you will find yourself at the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, one of the oldest houses built in the Philippines. This historic house built in the 17th century was well preserved and remained in its original state. In the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, you will discover a great collection of century-old furnitures, antiques, art pieces and religious artifacts. Stepping into the house is like traveling back in time!




Level 2 at the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House

The Garden at the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House

<< Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House >>


4. Marvel at the Architecture of the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral


The Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is a historical building with a classic Spanish colonial architecture style. This historical site draws both foreign travellers and locals for worship, prayer or capture some photos of the majestic facade daily.



The Bell Tower

<< Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral >>


5. Try the Cebuano Street Foods (Ngohiong & Puso)


One of the Cebuano street foods that you must try is Ngohiong, a Chinese inspired deep-fried spring roll made of Chinese five-spice powder, Singkamas (Jicama), ground pork, garlics, onions, salts, pepper and wrapped with Lumpia wrapper; and it is usually eaten with sweet, sour and spicy dipping sauce. Another quintessential Cebuano street food that you must try is Puso, simply just rice wrapped in a triangular casing made of woven coconut leaves and cooked with boiling water. In Cebu, the Puso is usually eaten with street foods like barbecue meats or deep-fried snacks. The best place to try these 2 Cebuano street foods is none other than the Chinese Ngohiong restaurant along the Junquera Street in the Cebu City.

The Chinese Ngohiong Restaurant

Puso, woven wrapped rice

<< Chinese Ngohiong >>


6. Catch A Colorful Jeepney


Do as the locals do! The best way to experience the locals' everyday life in Cebu is to squeeze inside the colorful painted jeepney with the locals and take a ride to your destination. The journey might not be the most comfortable one, but definitely it's going to be the most unforgettable one!



<< SM City Cebu Jeepney Bay Terminal >>


7. Eat Siomai


Siomai is a Filipino steamed pork dumplings, which is very similar to the Cantonese Dim Sum dish Siumaai. This Cebuano street food is so popular that it became one of the specialty foods in Cebu. If you are a real foodie, then you must make a trip to a city district called Tisa, which is very famous for selling delicious and very affordable Siomai.


<< Siomai Sa Tisa >>


8. The Unfinished Cuartel Ruins


The Cuartel Ruins, also commonly known as the Ruins of Oslob, is a historical landmark in the town of Oslob. The Cuartel supposed to serve as barracks for the Spanish soldiers, but it remained uncompleted after the Spanish rule ended in 1898. Today, this century-old ruins are considered one of the most extraordinary architecture in Cebu.



<< Cuartel Ruins >>


9. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception


Diagonally across the sandy street from the Spanish Cuartel Ruins, you will find yourself standing in front of a fairytale-like church, Our Lady the Immaculate Conception. This picturesque building is worth a visit since you are already in the town of Oslob.




<< Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception >>


10. Base Yourself at the Down South 118 Beach Resort


The Down South 118 Beach Resort is a beach style accommodation located in Oslob and it is a perfect place to spend a few days while you enjoy the outdoor activities around the town of Oslob. This boutique beachfront resort offers an incredible panoramic view of the sea with a very relaxing atmosphere. And what I love about this picturesque resort is they have full of Instagram-worthy spots to be discovered! | Rate & Reservation: Click Here

THIS IS MY HAPPY PLACE


Kayaking


Snorkelling


The Sea is the natural swimming pool

<< Down South 118 Beach Resort >>


11. Eat Danggit (Rabbit Fish)


Danggit is a sun-dried salted fish usually made from rabbitfish. In Cebu, Danggit is a very popular breakfast delight, especially among the locals, and normally it is eaten with fresh-cooked rice and sunny side up egg. Don't forget to dip the crispy dried fish with the vinegar and garlic sauce if you want to take your taste buds to the next level!

Dried Danggit at the restaurant in Down South 118 Beach Resort

<< Down South 118 Beach Resort >>
Location: Click Here for Map


12. Close Encounter with the Whale Sharks


Every morning, there are crowds of visitors flock to Oslob for one reason, to swim with the Whale sharks (Butanding) and this is one of the top things you must do in Cebu. Although these Whale sharks are harmless, I can assure you that you will encounter some heart-stopping moments when they swim pass you. Trust me! You wouldn't want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.






<< Oslob Whaleshark Watching Briefing Point >>


13. Day Trip to Sumilon Island


Sumilon is a small tropical island situated off the Southeastern coast of Cebu that is well-known for its stunning sandbar, crystal clear water and white sandy beaches. Do spare yourself a day to explore this wondrous island; there are many activities such as snorkeling, trekking, kayaking, fishing, lounging, sunbathing, massaging, afternoon tea and etc. If you are willing to splurge, then consider staying a night in the Sumilon Bluewater Resort. Rate & Reservation: Click Here

Spa Pool at The Bluewater Resort

Staircase to the Dock

Infinity Pool at The Bluewater Resort

Amuma Spa at The Bluewater Resort

Staircase to the Lagoon Beach


Amuma Spa Hut at The Bluewater Resort

Sandbar in the afternoon at Sumilon Island

<< Bancogon Port for Sumilon Island >>

<< Sumilon Island >>


14. Eat Pork Humba


Humba is a stewed pork dish, which is very similar to Filipino Adobo. Some people believe that Humba is Chinese in origin, where the Fujian Chinese called it "Hong Ba". Whether is it true or not, you have to try this Cebuano delicacy when you go to Cebu; the pork is stewed for hours until a melt in the mouth texture and it is best eaten with the steamed rice.

The interior setting of the Paul & Madz Restaurant



<< Paul & Madz Restaurant >>


15. Chase the Sunrise


Oslob is one of the best places in Cebu to catch a sunrise. There are many resorts located at the beach front where you can effortlessly enjoy the sunrise with the sky changing colors right at your door step. I am glad that we chose to stay in Down South 118 Beach Resort. Imagine yourself waking up to a sweeping panoramic view of the ocean with the rising sun.

Twilight View from the Down South 118 Beach Resort

Sunrise View from the Down South 118 Beach Resort


Panoramic View at the Down South 118 Beach Resort

<< Down South 118 Beach Resort >>
Location: Click Here for Map


16. Explore the Kawasan Falls


Located in Badian, Kawasan Falls is a scenic three-tier waterfalls that you shouldn't miss. Very popular yet well hidden in the forest surrounded by lush greenery, and the heavenly turquoise water is so irresistible that anyone would love to jump in for a dip. If you are a thrill seeker, then canyoneering is an activity that you should look forward.






<< Kawasan Falls - Entrance >>

<< Kawasan Falls >>
Location: Click Here for Map


17. Snorkelling and Diving


Cebu is a paradise for diving and snorkelling; and the hotspot for these activities is none other than Moalboal, a small town located in the Southwest coast of Cebu. Most of divers come all the way to Moalboal for the amazing sardine run. Besides that, Moalboal is blessed with abundant coral reefs and the sea turtles are very commonly spotted while snorkelling around the marine sanctuary.



<< Moalboal >>


18. Wait For Sunset & Twilight


If you are not a sunrise person, then at least stay back for sunset or twilight. It's always a great idea to end your day by watching the sun dip below the horizon as the skies slowly change its colors. You can easily catch a romantic sunset from the Panagsama Beach, which located in the small town of Moalboal.





<< Panagsama Beach >>


19. Swim in the pool at the Roof deck of Best Western Plus Lex Cebu


Fancy a cool and refreshing dip in the pool? The Best Western Plus Lex Cebu welcomes you to stay with them and soak up in their stylish swimming pool as you blissfully ogle into the city's skyline to infinity with a complimentary sunset. | Rate & Reservation: Click Here




<< Best Western Plus Lex Cebu >>


20. Eat Lechon


Lechon is a roasted pig stuffed with herbs and spices, and this is the most quintessential Filipino delicacy that you will see over the whole country. You are lucky because the best tasty Lechons can be easily found in Cebu. The Cebu Lechon is well known for its super crunchy skin and super tender juicy meat. After you have tasted it yourself, then you will understand why Filipinos are crazy over this specialty food of Cebu.

Ayer's Lechon

House of Lechon

House of Lechon

<< Ayer's Lechon >>

<< House of Lechon >>


21. Tour the Fort San Pedro


The Fort San Pedro is the remains of a Spanish triangular fortress dating back to 1738, today the fort is a museum with a beautiful garden. Do a tour in the Fort San Pedro for a better understanding of Cebu's history.




<< Fort San Pedro >>


22. Stop by The Cross of Magellan


The Cross of Magellan is planted by a group of Portuguese and Spanish explorers led by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, which marked the beginning of Christianity in Cebu. The Magellan's Cross is located in the historic center of the city that you wouldn't miss it.


<< Magellan's Cross >>


23. Visit the Oldest Church in Philippines


The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu is the first Catholic church in Philippines dates back to the 1500s, and it houses the oldest religious relic in honor of the holy child Jesus (Santo Nino). This is also the place where the Sinulog Santo Nino Festival, one of the most popular festivals in the Philippines will be held. A visit to this stunning ancient church is highly recommended.


<< Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu >>


24. Soak Up the Local Atmosphere at the Carbon Market


Bustling, colorful, chaotic and vibrant, the Carbon Market is a local market that sell almost everything from vegetables, fruits, seafood to dry goods as well as clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts and more. This market is where you can soak up the local atmosphere and get a close up on the true lifestyle of the Cebuanos.





<< Carbon Market >>


25. Eat Bam-i


Bam-i, sometimes known as Pancit Bisaya, is a stir-fried noodle dish that originated in the Visayas region, and it is also the specialty food of Cebu. The Bam-i used to be served on the special occasions like festival and birthday celebrations, but today you can easily find this Cebuano dish in the restaurants around Cebu.


<< House of Lechon >>
Location: Click Here for Map


26. Inspired Yourself at The Henry Cebu


You don't have to visit the museum or art galleries if you book your stay with The Henry Cebu. The Henry Cebu is a boutique art hotel offering 38 spacious rooms with unique furnishings, stunning murals and quirky decor. Every room is unique, featuring a different mural artwork by the Cebuano artist Mark Luzon, and that makes the stay there even more special and unforgettable. #itsmorefuninphilippines | Rate & Reservation: Click Here






<< The Henry Cebu >>


27. Feel The Love At The Temple of Leah


The Temple of Leah is a dedication of love from Teodorico Soriano Adarna to his late wife, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. This massive Roman architectural style temple with a glorious view of the city was built in 2012, and it doesn't take too long to become one of the top tourist spots in Cebu.






<< Temple of Leah >>


28. Get to the Top of Cebu


If you are planning to visit the Temple of Leah, then you must combine your trip with the Tops Lookout, an observation deck with a stunning panoramic view of the Cebu city. At the top, you can slow down your time by watching the entire city lights up slowly as the sky turns dark. 




<< Tops Lookout >>


29. Eat Lechon Manok


Lechon Manok is roasted chicken stuffed with lemongrass, and it is considered one of the comfort foods in Cebu. Although Lechon Manok doesn't sound popular like Lechon, the dish is sold on every corner of street in Cebu. If you want to try one more food before getting out of Cebu, then you should put Lechon Manok into your food hunting list.


<< Tiktilaok >>


30. Go Home With Some Cebu Souvenirs
A little bit of shopping definitely make your trip more interesting and these are the 3 things in Cebu that you should bring home with you. First and foremost, the dried mangoes, Cebu is widely known for their dried mangoes and it is considered the best in the world. Since you are already in Cebu, there is no reason why you are not getting it. The next thing that you should bring home is Otap, an oval-shape biscuit originated from Cebu. You can easily find this Cebuano delicacy in most of the supermarkets in Cebu. And finally, you can consider getting some Papaya soaps for yourself or your loved ones. This handmade skin whitening product is very popular in Cebu, probably one of the beauty secret weapons for the Cebuano people, especially the women.




<< Hypermarket @ Gaisano Country Mall >>


Overall, I feel that Cebu is an ideal place to start with if you are visiting the Philippines for the first time. Whether you are a nature lover, adrenaline junkie, culture enthusiast or food connoisseur, there is always something in Cebu waiting to be explored.





Written By: Q.J.
Photography By: Q.J. & K.K.
Posted by
Labels: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)