How can we even begin to describe Cebu? It has everything--good food, stunning beaches, an up and coming outdoor adventure scene, abundant marine life, a rich cultural heritage, and a bustling metropolis. It is home to the Philippines' biggest festival, the Philippines' oldest city, and the site of the first Catholic baptism (and therefore home to the first Catholics). And the best thing about it is that Cebu is easily the most accessible destination by plane, and often also the most affordable (all-year fares go for around P500 or even much less, except during Sinulog in January).
Carcar's chicharon is the best we've tasted yet, and we first had it onboard a bus to Hagnaya that will take us to Bantayan. Each pack costs P35 and can be bought practically anywhere in Cebu.
We bought this six-string guitar for P400 at a shop across the Sto. Nino Basilica. But Cebu's larger guitar factories are located in Lapu-Lapu in Mactan Island, near the airport.
Pusó is Cebu's own take on cooked rice: wrapped in coconut leaves, and particularly convenient for on-the-go dining for travelers (we tried having a quick lunch aboard a bus--barbecue on one hand and a puso on the other--very convenient!).
Cebu is all about lechon and lechon should be all about Cebu. We've tasted what celebrated chef Anthony Bourdain said is the best piece of lechon ever in the world. In Cebu, it's a toss between Zubuchon and CNT, two well loved chains of the roasted suckling pig delicacy. Be sure to check out both of them.
If you want to go back to the basics of a beach getaway, Bantayan is your best bet. It's 2-3 hours north of Cebu City by bus, plus another hour by ferry. Other notable Cebu beach spots are in Mactan, Sumilon, Camotes Island, and Malapascua (also known for its rich marine environment, including its regular thresher shark sightings).
OTHER CEBU HIGHLIGHTS YOU CAN ENJOY:
OTHER CEBU HIGHLIGHTS YOU CAN ENJOY:
River trekking, as well as other ziplining and other outdoor activities, is a relatively new happening in Cebu. Rough it up at Masaba River in Sitio Masaba up in the hills, around an hour's drive from the city center. The local government has dubbed its newest campaign "Adventure Cebu," which aims to promote eco-adventure activities all over the city.
*last photo taken on official assignment for AsianTraveler magazine, February 2012
Megawdd 0_0 nice entry! I kind of wish it was longer! :) I hope ull post more about your trip. and oh, puso a.k.a. hanging rice is wrapped in coconut leaves, not banana :p
ReplyDeleteHi Markin! Thanks for noticing. Duly corrected. :) We'll be posting lengthier posts on Cebu soon! Do visit again!
ReplyDeleteWow! So happy to stumbled on your blog! Super ganda! I love your page so much!
ReplyDeleteHello Gladys! Thank you so much! Hope you visit again soon! ~Nikka
DeleteWonderful photos as usual - River trekking and zipping looks fun.
ReplyDeleteThanks Tracey. The river trek was a bit of a shock for a beginner like me, but all the same, it's one of this year's best surprises. ;)
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