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