Philippine Travel: Cebu

A highly urbanized and modern city which serves as the hub of growth and development in Southern Philippines, Cebu is a tropical paradise and business haven in one. Aside from beautiful beaches and all year round tropical climate, luxuriant accommodations, native and world class cuisines and vibrant nightlife all fill Cebu's repertoire. Today, Cebu is a 33,000-hectare metropolis of three cities and six municipalities. Its population of around one million is a mix of Filipinos with Chinese, with American and European influences. The main dialect is Cebuano or Bisaya, however English and Tagalog are widely spoken and understood. The recently-expanded and modernized Mactan International Airport services flights from all over the world, preserving its role as the crossroads of international trade in the southern Philippines. If you plan to visit Cebu it is best to do so between December and May when the weather turns dry. It is coolest from December to February and hottest from March to May. It starts to get rainy in July - August. Daily flights to Cebu are available from Manila to the Mactan International Airport. Often called the "Queen City of the South" and the "Seat of Christianity in the Philippines", Cebu is the country's oldest city. Ferdinand Magellan first planted the cross on her shores. A rich historic past is evident all around the island, and her people are very proud of their heritage. Mainland Cebu is made up of five cities; Cebu, Danao, Lapulapu Mandaue and Toledo and 48 smaller towns. 167 islets and islands surround the city, most of which have fine white sand and clear blue waters. These islands are a popular destination for divers from experienced, to first-timers. Cebu nowadays is comparable to Manila, except probably for the cheap food and the famous cebu lechon, as well as shopping at bargain prices all year round. Places to Stay: Alegre Beach Resort Calumboyan, Sagod, Cebu (032)2549800 / (032)2556388 White sand coves, restaurant and bar, conference facilities, tennis court and aqua sports facilities Badian Island Beach Hotel Badian Island, Badian, Cebu (032)2536452 Seaquest Dive Center Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Cebu (032)3469629