Saturday, March 13, 2010

Top Ten Things to do in Cebu

On a personal note, here are the top ten things to do while in Cebu on vacation.

1. Food trip! - From the simple food stalls along the street to the fancy restaurants in malls, there are so many interesting delicacies to sample. Filipino restaurants are everywhere and the menu selection can be overwhelming, so ask a local for what to sample. I would recommend, "kinilaw" (raw fish marinated in coconut milk with vinegar), "kare-kare" (ox tail in a peanut butter sauce), "lechon kawali" (crispy pork), "Kangkong" (leafy vegetable), Mongo soup (bean soup with coconut milk) and for dessert, try the many varieties of rice cakes. Oh, ask for local lemonade called "calamansi".

Cebu Mangoes - You can find them at fruit stands that are scattered in different parts of the city or even in the grocery stores. A kilo can get you around 4 or 5 pieces, depending on the size. The tricky part is trying to figure out if they have perfectly ripened. But certainly, you will be pleasantly surprised after taking one bite from this delicious fruit.



2. Go to Top of Cebu - Around a 30 to 45 minute drive up the hills of Cebu, towards a famous look-out point, called Top of Cebu. There is an entrance fee, but once inside, it will be worth it. Enjoy the cool breeze and the panoramic view of the city of Cebu. I suggest going right before sunset, so you can enjoy seeing the city as the light fades and the city lights start to light up the streets below.

3. Enjoy a day at the beach in Mactan island - There are no "famous beaches" within the city of Cebu, so a trip across to the island of Mactan, will take you to several choices of private beach resorts and hotels. Among those choices would be Mactan Shangri-la, Plantation Bay, Maribago Blue Waters, BE Resorts and also Tambuli Beach Resort.


4. Cebu's tallest building - The Crown Regency Hotel and Towers is the tallest in Cebu and it has an Edge Coaster. For amazing views and a unique thrill ride, it may be just unique experience you are looking for.


5. Head North! - Take the northern trip to Malapascua and visit places like Danao, Sugod, Bogo and San Remegio along the way.



6. Go way down South - Take the southern trail to Santander, and see interesting architecture in places like Carcar, Argao, Dalaguete and Boljoon.


7. Go sight seeing - See the historic spots within the old part of Cebu called "downtown", where the Basilica del Sto. NiƱo, the Cebu Cathedral, Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, Casa Gorordo and the Museo Sugbo are all located.


8. Have a massage! - If there is one thing I enjoy, and that is, having an affordable massage, after a long day of sight seeing. There are so many massage places all over Cebu, you will have a difficult time selecting which place to go to, so, take your time and sample as many as you can.

9. Rent a "banca" and go island hopping - During my childhood days, my family would rent a small outrigger boat to go to the nearby islets near Mactan island. This is one way to spend a relaxing day and a good way to get a great tan as well!


10. Check out the handicrafts of the talented Cebuano - From furniture to fashion accessories, handbags to home decor, there are so many Cebuano products that you may want to take home with you.



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