Destination: Queen City of the South
In the Philippines, holidays are almost always synonymous with vacations. This year alone the president has decreed more than 20 legal holidays, not to mention long weekends (this is a phenomenon, where the government declares a holiday that’s supposed to happen mid-week, moves it on either a Friday or a Monday, and presto, instant long weekend!)
However, enough about government policies and let us focus on the subject at hand.
Travel. Vacation. Tourist destinations. Escape.
The Filipino’s love for travel and hospitable nature makes our country one of the top tourist destinations in the world. With over 7,107 islands, the Philippine archipelago is indeed a world renowned tourist spot.
Out of more than 7000 islands, perhaps the best way to experience the Filipino life and heritage is in Cebu, after all, this is the landmark of all landmarks when the Philippines was discovered by a Portuguese sailor named Ferdinand Magellan sometime in the early 1500’s… and that goes without saying that we can list down more that 7000 reasons for people to go there. However, that would be a bore and a cliché, wouldn’t it?
Why Cebu?
First of all, you get the best of both worlds. By that, I mean, you can really find places for a great and entertaining urban nightlife, or bask in the simple pleasures of nature.
In Cebu everything is 30 minutes away!
The island of Cebu is located right smack in the middle of the Philippines. The tropical climate makes it perfect for a summer getaway. It has more than 100 beaches stretching from coast to coast. The resorts are plenty, and tourist from all classes can be catered to, from 5 star hotels to very affordable resorts, the island really welcomes tourists from all walks of life.
Did I mention that everything in Cebu is only 30 minutes away?
I believe I did.
Finding a perfect resort will not cost travellers an entire day. In Mactan island alone, resorts and hotels are a dime a dozen, just ask your local travel agent, and you’ll have a myriad of options to choose from, and yes, you can get there in 30 minutes from the moment your plane lands at the Mactan International Airport.
International Hotel chains like Waterfront, Hilton, and Shangri-la are only some of the class A hotels that Cebu has to offer. If you are looking at a more local flavor, you also have it aplenty. Resorts like, Maribago Bluewaters, Tambuli, Cebu Beach Club, White Sands are very dependable choices. These locally owned and managed resorts also offer amenities that are at par with 5 star hotels.
After spending a couple of days in the sun, sea, and surf, you might want to enjoy the nightlife and unwind at the local clubs or pubs. That is not a problem! Again travel time may take just 30 minutes.
In the City, there are countless of bars and watering holes for tourists to enjoy the city life (once they get bored with the beach). Those who enjoy house and modern music can visit Vudu, Penthouse, or Loft, all of which are located in the Banilad area. 80’s music lovers can visit Formo, a resto-bar, also located in the same area…
Shopping and dining are also a treat in Cebu City. The Ayala Center in Cebu offers numerous restaurants, cafes, and bistros to satisfy your palates. Did I mention that it is also one of the classiest if not THE classiest Mall in town? This shopping mall is next to hotels and pension houses so getting there is really easy.
One cannot leave Cebu without trying the local cuisine. The SUTUKIL restaurants in Mactan offer fresh seafood. You name it, fish, lobsters, prawns, and shells, are caught and cooked right before your eyes just the way you want it. If you want it grilled, the cook can grill it. You want it fried, they’ll fry it. You want it with sauce, or soup based, they’ll do it. They can do the cooking; all you have to do is ask.
Out of 7000 reasons to be in Cebu, and I have only mentioned a few. The best way to enjoy Cebu is to discover Cebu for yourself and fall in love with the place or in the place.
