Discover Cebu
IN 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan landed on the shores of Cebu Island during his search for the spice islands on behalf of the King of Spain, thus officially discovering the Philippines (though the islands had long been trading with the Middle East and other parts of Asia).
Cebu calling
To mark this event and the propagation of Catholicism in the Philippines, Magellan erected a large wooden cross. Today, Magellan’s Cross stands in front of Cebu’s city hall and is a key attraction along with other centuries-old landmarks in in the city. The original cross is encased intindalowood and is inside a chapel to protect it from those seeking a piece of the holy relic. Magellan, however, never left the islands; he was killed in a confrontation with the native people of adjacent Mactan Island, led by the warrior Lapu-Lapu.
Cebu’s appeal to the modern-day tourist, though, has more to do sun, sand and sea than history. The clear waters teem with rich marine life, offering some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling in the world. The beaches, located on Mactan Island, are complemented by upscale hotels and resorts where families and honeymooners enjoy five-star hospitality. Much of the stylish furniture and décor of the island’s resorts is made locally, while those seeking luxury items from further afield will find what they want in the numerous luxury boutiques.
Fish can be enjoyed on the table throughsugba,the Cebuano term for grilling. Additionally, the island is known for its mangoes and suckling pig (lechon), which American chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain has called the “best pork in the world”.
– Ruby Gonzalez
Photo: Getty Images
Eat Olio Steak and Seafood Restaurant
Patrons go to Olio to impress and to eat well. The fine-dining restaurant is known for its steak, seafood and wine selection, as well as its wide array of international cuisines. The sophisticated ambiance provides a backdrop for the memorable meal.
Do Islands Banca Cruises
Take to the seas on a Filipino outrigger boat that will take you island hopping to the white-sand beach of Pandanon and marine sanctuaries Nalusuan and Gilutungan for snorkelling and fish-feeding. While on the boat, enjoy the comfort of cushioned seats, fresh towels, Wi-Fi access, an iPod dock, snacks and drinks. Snorkelling gear, meals and onboard massages service can be arranged at additional cost.
Photo: Getty Images
Shop Tindahang Pinoy
The one-stop shopping concept of Tindahang Pinoy (Filipino Store) offers Cebu’s export-quality products such as fashion accessories, home décor, furniture and local food. Dried mangoes are a must-buy.
Location
Bridges Town Square, Plaridel Street, Mandaue City
Stay Abaca Boutique Resort
With just six ocean-view suites and three villas, Abaca Boutique Resort presents an air of exclusivity, allowing staff to lavish attention on guests. Accommodation is spacious, luxurious and quiet. Enjoy 24-hour butler service, round-trip airport transfers, Wi-Fi access and breakfast, all included in the room rate. The award-winning Abaca Restaurant serves Californian-meets-Mediterranean flatbread pizzas and roasted dishes with an alfresco setting.
Photo: TED ALJIBE - AFP/Getty Images
Do Olango My Getaway
Olango My Getaway’s (OMG) acronym is a good way to foresee what lies ahead. The “culinary tour on bike” offers a satisfying sampler of life on the Olango group of islands, a five-kilometre boat ride from the mainland. Go bird-watching and mudflat fishing at night, interact with the locals and sample their food. OMG is an overnight tour but day trips can be arranged.
Location
Punta Engaño Wharf, Mactan Island
Phone
+63 909 620 3130
Photo: Constantine Agustin
See 1730 Jesuit House
The city’s oldest house, built in 1730, is inside an operational warehouse compound of hardware supplies. Realising its historical value, the owners recently restored and opened it to the public as a museum showcasing 18th-century Filipino-Hispanic life.
Experience Chi Spa’s Hilot
The feeling of relaxation continues long after the session has ended. This is one of the attributes of hilot, the traditional Philippine healing massage that uses oils from endemic Philippine plants. Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa ’s Chi Spa, a 10,000-square metre spa village, offers a most indulgent experience.
Photo: Getty Images
Walk Parian
Cebu’s Parian district is teeming with iconic landmarks. Old Cebu Walks puts a structure on exploring the area with its 2.5-hour tour, starting at Magellan’s Cross shrine and winding through parks, ancestral houses, marketplaces, museums and a centuries-old church.
Location
Magellan’s Cross, Magallanes Street, Cebu City
Phone
+63 917 716 9830
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