Here’s another annual family trip, we decided this time to visit local places in the Philippines – Cebu and Bohol. Why these provinces? You will learn that later and in my Bohol travel blog.
T.E.L.L. (Travel. Entertainment. Lifestyle. Leisure.) section of VoicePoints is a spin-off of The Solo Drifter (for my non-solo trips obviously).
Table of Contents
What you need to know about Cebu
- Consists of a main island and 167 surrounding islands and islets.
- The arrival of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 began a period of Spanish exploration and colonization.
- Its capital and largest city is Cebu City, nicknamed “the Queen (Catholic) City of the South” having the Second Cardinal, the oldest city and first capital of the Philippines. Cebu is the capital of the Catholic faith by virtue of being the first Christian city, the first capital of the Spanish East Indies, and the birthplace of Christianity and the Philippine Church. Pope John Paul II, in his Homily for Families in Cebu (February 19, 1981), called the island as the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines.
- The Cebuanos’ acceptance of Christianity is depicted in Cebu’s cultural event, the Sinulog where street parades and loud drum beats preceded by a Christian Mass is celebrated every third Sunday of January.
- It is dry and sunny most of the year with some occasional rains during the months of June to December.
- The Cebuano language is spoken in Cebu.
- With many beautiful islands, white sand beaches, luxury hotels and resorts, diving locations and heritage sites, high domestic and foreign tourist arrivals have fueled the tourism industry of Cebu.
- Mactan–Cebu International Airport (MCIA) on the island of Mactan serves as the main gateway to domestic and international routes to or from Cebu City and other islands in the Visayas region.
- Cebu is located to the east of Negros, to the west of Leyte and Bohol islands.
Where to stay
Before, when I was still with KPMG in the Philippines delivering trainings, they would always book me at Caste Peak Hotel and so far, that is the best hotel I have ever stayed at. When we had a family vacation, we stayed at Eon Centennial Soho Hotel. Pictures on the internet were fine but rooms are actually small. The only good thing about the hotel is their welness center and swimming pool with a city view.
How to get to Cebu
Cebu is one of the most accessible destinations in the Philippines, with multiple transportation options available whether you’re coming from Manila or a different country.
From Manila to Cebu
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Cebu from Manila is by air via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Our family took Cebu Pacific flight with a mix of GO Easy and GO Flexi (priority boarding and advanced seat selector), amounting to PHP10,750 (USD215) for five passengers for the roundtrip fare.
There is also a sea travel option. Several ferry companies offer routes from Manila to Cebu, but these typically take around 22 to 24 hours. While slower, it’s a scenic and budget-friendly option for travelers.
From other countries to Cebu
Check Cebu Pacific website if they have Cebu flights from your country. Normally flag carriers partner with Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines to reach to Cebu, which is an international gateway with direct flights from key cities in Asia and the Middle East. Mactan-Cebu International Airport serves flights from destinations such as:
- Singapore (Scoot, Cebu Pacific)
- Hong Kong (Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific)
- Dubai (Emirates, Cebu Pacific)
- Seoul (Korean Air, Jin Air, Cebu Pacific)
- Tokyo (Philippine Airlines)
- Taipei (EVA Air, China Airlines)
If there are no direct flights from your location, the most common route is to fly to Manila and then take a connecting domestic flight to Cebu.
Commuting around Cebu
Another plus for Cebu is that it is known for Grab. Upon arrival at MCIA, visitors can reach Cebu City in about 30 to 45 minutes by taxi or Grab. For those heading to other destinations within Cebu, buses and ferries are available from the city’s main terminals. Drivers would offer you their services for tours the following day. You can ask how much they charge, then you can decide.
What to do
Our family started our first day in Cebu visiting some religious places. We are not Catholics though but we like exploring history and culture.
Cebu City
Sirao Garden
One of our family’s favorite destinations in Cebu is Sirao Garden, located in the scenic highlands of Barangay Sirao. Known as the “Little Amsterdam of Cebu,” this flower farm bursts with colorful blooms arranged in picturesque patterns, creating a postcard-perfect landscape. Visitors can stroll through fields of celosias, sunflowers, and daisies. Sirao Garden offers a refreshing escape from the busy city.
The garden is open from 7am to 6pm. Entrance fee is PHP100 per person.
Magellan’s Cross
Planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it stands as a symbol of the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines. Magellan’s Cross remains one of Cebu’s most revered historical landmarks. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country, home to the revered Santo Niño de Cebu—one of the most significant religious relics in Philippine history.
Fort San Pedro
Planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it stands as a powerful symbol of the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines.
Before the arrival of the Spaniards, indigenous Filipinos practiced animism and ancestor worship, believing in deities and nature spirits. However, certain parts of the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, had already been exposed to Islam, which arrived through Arab traders and missionaries as early as the 14th century. Meanwhile, Hindu and Buddhist influences had also shaped early Filipino culture. These influences were evident in language, social structures, and religious practices.
When Magellan arrived on the shores of Cebu, he introduced Roman Catholicism to the local rulers, including Rajah Humabon and his wife, who were among the first indigenous converts. As a symbol of their newfound faith, Magellan gifted them an image of the Santo Niño (Holy Child). However, Magellan’s expedition was short-lived—he was killed in the Battle of Mactan by Datu Lapulapu, a local chieftain who resisted foreign rule.
Just a short walk from Magellan’s Cross stands the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines. Today, both Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica serve as enduring symbols of the country’s deep Catholic heritage, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors each year.
Temple of Leah
Often dubbed the “Taj Mahal of Cebu,” the Temple of Leah stands as a breathtaking symbol of undying love. Built in 2012 by Teodorico Soriano Adarna in honor of his late wife, Leah Villa Albino Adarna, this majestic structure immortalizes their over 50-year marriage. They are the grandparents of Philippine celebrity Ellen Adarna.
Spanning 24 opulent chambers, the temple houses a library, art gallery, and museum, each filled with treasured collections. Its grandeur is further accentuated by statues of lions and angels, with the highlight being a 10-foot bronze statue of Leah. Entrance fee during weekdays per person is PHP150, while PHP120 during weekends. Parking fee is PHP50. The temple is open at 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Cebu Taoist Temple
Located on the hills of Beverly Hills Subdivision, the Taoist Temple is an architectural gem that reflects the grandeur of traditional Chinese temples. Built in 1972 by Cebu’s Chinese community, this sacred site is open to visitors of all faiths. Beyond its spiritual significance, the temple is a visual delight. Visitors can climb its 81 steps, symbolizing the 81 chapters of the Taoist scriptures, to reach the main shrine.
Cordova
10,000 Roses
The 10,000 Roses Café offers more than just coffee—it’s an enchanting experience. This unique destination is famous for its breathtaking display of 10,000 LED-lit white roses. During the day, the café provided us a peaceful retreat after our tiring day of exploring the city. As a tourist, you would notice when the sun sets, the ambiance transforms—the LED roses illuminate.
The entrance fee is PHP 20 per person, and the best time to visit is in the late afternoon and evening, allowing you to experience both the serene daylight charm and the dazzling nightscape. The café operates daily from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
As a remembrance, I even bought my own LED rose from the café.
Sibonga
Simala Shrine
Founded in 1997 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, if you are planning to visit this religious place, make sure to go there early as it would be a long queue of pilgrims and devotees. Once they open the gate, it wouldn’t be crowded though. Also ensure to wear appropriate dress. There is no entrance fee and it is open between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., with a mass everyday at 8:00 a.m.
After a day of city tour, we spent the other two days with nature. We went for canyoneering and get to experience Kawasan falls and had our family scuba diving.
Badian and Alegria
Badian Canyoneering and Kawasan Falls
I booked this Kawasan Falls canyoneering tour with Mcrich Travel and Tours via Klook, and it turned out to be our favorite in our Cebu trip.
Our adventure began before dawn—we were picked up from our hotel just before 5:00 a.m. and arrived in Badian around 7:00 a.m. A team of three to four guides accompanied us, each playing a role: one expertly captured videos and photos of our journey, while the others ensured our safety throughout the experience. Before setting off, tourism officers briefed us with important instructions, preparing us for the exhilarating trek ahead.
At the start of the tour, we had the option to either take a zipline ride to the jump-off point or hike through the scenic trail. Our family chose to hike, and it was absolutely the right decision! The walk rewarded us with stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and breathtaking views that made the journey as exciting as the destination itself.
Then came the real adventure—canyoneering through the crystal-clear waters leading to Kawasan Falls. Jumping off cliffs, swimming through turquoise pools, and wading through the stunning canyon made for an unforgettable experience. The highlight? Seeing Kawasan Falls in all its glory—a surreal sight that made every step of the adventure worthwhile. My brother, always up for a thrill, jumped at every opportunity (literally!) to leap off the waterfalls. I joined him twice, and even my dad couldn’t resist the adrenaline rush! My brother and I even went to the falls itself to have a photo and video.
The four-hour canyoneering journey ended with a splash—plunging into the ice-cold, 40-foot-high waters of Kawasan Falls, a refreshing finale to an epic adventure.
Lapu-lapu
Scuba Diving
While writing this blog post, I was reminded of a question I’m often asked: “What’s your sport?” It hit me—I’ve finally found my answer: scuba diving. What started with my first dive in Jordan has now become a passion, especially after experiencing it again here in Cebu. There’s something magical about exploring the underwater world, witnessing its beauty up close, and sharing that adventure with my family.
A huge thanks to Nalu Dive for guiding us through this incredible experience—it was truly unforgettable! Unfortunately, my mom, who has a fear of deep water, and my dad stuck to snorkeling. But even from the surface, they still got to enjoy the vibrant marine life.
The best part? Experiencing this with my brother—feeding the fish, seeing at the stunning underwater scenery, and simply enjoying the moment together. He wanted more, and honestly, so did I. But one thing’s for sure—this won’t be our last dive together.
Other activities
Oslob Whale Shark Watching
Journey south to Oslob for an unforgettable encounter—swimming alongside majestic whale sharks. Renowned worldwide for its whale shark watching tours, Oslob offers a rare opportunity to get up close with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. You may do snorkeling beside them or simply observing from a boat.
Moalboal
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking underwater world of Moalboal, a paradise for divers and snorkelers alike. The highlight of Moalboal is the legendary sardine run where millions of sardines move in perfect synchronization, forming shimmering, ever-shifting clouds beneath the surface. This natural spectacle has made Moalboal a bucket-list destination for underwater adventurers from around the world.
Camotes Island
From underground caves to serene lakes, this island offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences. One of its most fascinating attractions is the Holy Crystal Cave. For those seeking a more tranquil escape, Lake Danao—also known as Lover’s Lake—is a must-visit. Uniquely shaped like the number eight, this 700-hectare body of water is the largest lake in the Visayas region.
Bantayan Island
Famed for its powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Beyond its stunning coastline, the island’s laid-back atmosphere and warm, welcoming locals add to its charm, making it a favorite among beach lovers seeking an idyllic retreat.
Osmena Park
Soaring 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak holds the title of Cebu’s highest point. This peak is famed for its dramatic, spire-like rock formations. The hike to Osmeña Peak is short and beginner-friendly, typically taking 30 minutes to an hour. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming farm trails. At the summit, the reward is a panoramic vista of Cebu’s southeastern coastline, the Tañon Strait, and even Negros Island on a clear day.
Where to eat
We were pleasantly surprised to discover that Cebu is a true haven for Filipino cuisine, standing out among the many provinces we’ve explored as a family. From savory lechon with perfectly crispy skin to fresh seafood and iconic local delicacies, Cebu’s food scene exceeded our expectations, offering some of the best flavors the Philippines has to offer.
Top of Cebu
Located atop a hill with stunning panoramic views of Cebu’s skyline, Top of Cebu perfectly blends delicious local cuisine with breathtaking surroundings. Owned by Pages Group Holdings—the same group behind Lantaw and House of Lechon—this dining spot has been delighting guests with modern twists on classic Filipino dishes for over a year now.
During our visit, we indulged in a feast, but our favorite was undeniably their Pancit de Cebu. Unlike any pancit we’ve had before, this dish is a creative reinvention of a Filipino classic. The spicy pancit canton noodles are stir-fried with a savory mix of seafood, vegetables, and pork, then topped with crispy fried noodles, eggs, and Cebu’s famous chicharon for added crunch and richness. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfectly capturing the bold and hearty flavors that Cebuanos love.
Starters price is around PHP250. Main course is between PHP300 and PHP500, steak costs PHP1,200-PHP1,300.
Lantaw Native Restaurant
Our first day’s final stop was 10,000 Roses, and as we were planning to have dinner nearby, we stumbled upon a hidden gem—Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant. We had no idea it was a well-known spot, but we quickly realized why it’s so popular. The combination of delicious food and stunning views makes it a top destination for both locals and tourists.
Located in Cordova, Cebu, Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant offers more than just a meal—it provides an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s Asian-inspired interior, with its bamboo elements, creates a cozy yet unique ambiance, adding to the overall charm of the floating restaurant. The breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape are undeniably one of the best in Cebu, making it a perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the serene surroundings.
One of the standout dishes we tried was the mussels with cheese, a delightful twist on a seafood classic. However, upon tasting, we realized it wasn’t your typical mussels.
House of Lechon
During my past visits to the KPMG Cebu office, they would always bring me to House of Lechon. This time, I had the pleasure of introducing it to my family—especially from my dad, who had been eagerly talking about lechon since our very first day here. I was intentionally holding off lechon throughout our stay, saving the best for the last night in Cebu, and the anticipation only made it that much more special!
On our final night, I handed the reins over to my family to decide what to order, but in the end, my brother and I took charge and selected a feast that would satisfy everyone’s cravings. House of Lechon did not disappoint!
We started with the spicy lechon (PHP230+), which was cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with just the right amount of spice to elevate its flavor. We also had the Carcar lechon (PHP200+), a regional specialty known for its distinct taste and seasoned to perfection.
But the surprises didn’t stop there! We couldn’t resist ordering the prichon, a deep-fried version of lechon that offered an incredible crunch with every bite. It’s lechon, but taken to the next level. We also indulged in a refreshing jackfruit or nangka salad, and chili cheese sticks (PHP100+), which became an instant favorite for my brother and me—crispy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. We had second round for this actually.
For dessert, we treated ourselves to our ever favorite as a family since before – mango sticky rice, which was a perfect blend of sweet coconut and ripe mango, and ice candy tree. To finish the meal, we couldn’t resist ordering a classic Filipino dessert—halo-halo.
Each dish was a celebration of Filipino flavors, and House of Lechon truly lived up to its reputation as a Cebu culinary institution. It was the perfect way to wrap up our trip, and my family couldn’t stop talking about how delicious everything was. It was worth the wait.
La Parisienne
On our last day in Cebu, we wanted to make it special for Mother’s Day. As is our tradition, we surprised our mom with something unique and memorable, and this time, it led us to La Parisienne—a charming French-inspired winery and restaurant.
La Parisienne is the brainchild of passionate French entrepreneurs who have seamlessly blended business acumen with a love for quality. This cozy establishment isn’t just a place to dine; it offers an authentic French experience that transports you straight to a quaint Parisian bakery and deli. We were instantly charmed by the atmosphere of the restaurant. Whether you’re indulging in their salads, pastas, or main dishes, each item on the menu is crafted with care and attention to detail. The salads range from PHP250 to PHP450, while the pasta dishes span from PHP300 to PHP1,200. The main dishes are priced between PHP300 and PHP400, offering a delightful mix of flavors that are sure to please.
10,000 Roses Café
I won’t go into much detail about the café itself, as I’ve already introduced it earlier, but I’ll take a moment to share how it captivated us with its atmosphere. We arrived at 4:00 p.m., just in time to unwind and relax while waiting for the sunset. The café offers stunning views of the sea, where the calm waters stretch out into the horizon. The peaceful ambiance creates the perfect setting to sit back, enjoy a drink, and take in the natural beauty around you.
The food is between pizza and pasta, panini and salad, with options for cold and hot beverages. Prices range between PHP250-450.
Hungry Steak
After our scuba diving, we went to Cebu Yacht Club. Among the many dining options there, Hungry Steak stood out as the perfect choice for our lunch. We were drawn to it not only because of the delicious dishes on the menu but also because of its charming ambiance and the stunning view of the yachts docked nearby. The open-air seating allows guests to enjoy the breezy atmosphere and watch the yachts glide gracefully on the water.
As for the food, Hungry Steak offers a fantastic range of hearty options that cater to every craving. The steaks, which are the restaurant’s specialty, were cooked to perfection, full of flavor.
What and where to buy pasalubong
Pasalubong is a Filipino tradition that refers to the act of bringing back gifts or souvenirs from a trip for friends, family, or loved ones. The items given as pasalubong can range from local delicacies, handicrafts, souvenirs, to specialty goods unique to the place visited. It is a common practice in Filipino culture, especially when returning from a trip to another province or country.
Carcar
On our first day in Cebu, we were introduced to Carcar, a charming town that can truly be called the pasalubong capital of Cebu.
One of the town’s most famous offerings is its chicharon (crispy pork skin). Carcar is home to some of the best chicharon in the region, and it comes in two irresistible variations: “kubal”, which is purely pork skin, and the more flavorful chicharon that still has traces of tender meat. Carcar locals are more than happy to point you toward the best places to buy this crispy treat, and kiosks near the rotunda sell products from various suppliers, each offering their own take on this beloved snack.
Carcar has another local specialty you won’t want to miss—ampao, or rice crispies. Made from puffed rice, ampao is a nostalgic Filipino delicacy that’s been lovingly prepared and sold by Carcaranons for generations. You’ll find it at kiosks, small stores, and even from vendors who board buses and offer it to passengers passing through the town.
Another distinct Carcar delicacy is bocarillo, which are candied coconut strips. These bright, colorful sweets come in shades of pink, blue, green, and yellow, making them a vibrant treat to bring home.
Tabo-an Market
Located in the heart of Cebu City, this market is renowned for its wide array of dried fish and local delicacies, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Filipino flavors to bring home. It is not just a place to shop—it’s a cultural experience where you can immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the island. One of the key elements that makes Tabo-an special is its name. “Tabo-an” comes from the word “tabo,” which means container or pail in Filipino. The market’s name is believed to have evolved from the word “bagsakan,” a local term that refers to a place where goods are sold in bulk or piled up.
At Tabo-an, you’ll find a variety of dried fish that are staples in many Filipino households. The market is especially famous for dried danggit, a type of small, salted fish that’s crisped to perfection. This beloved Cebuano delicacy is often enjoyed with rice and vinegar or served as a crunchy snack. You can also find other types of dried fish, such as tuwa (dried mackerel) and buwad (dried anchovies), each offering a different flavor profile and texture.
While dried fish is undoubtedly the highlight of Tabo-an, the market also offers other traditional Cebuano pasalubong items, including rosquillos (a sweet, crunchy cookie), otap (a flaky, crispy pastry), masareal (peanut-based candy), and dried mangoes—another iconic treat from Cebu.
Every corner of Cebu is a masterpiece of nature. What makes Cebu even more remarkable is the local government’s dedication to enhancing its tourism industry. Through well-maintained infrastructure, eco-tourism initiatives, and cultural festivals like Sinulog, Cebu continues to position itself as a premier destination in Southeast Asia. The support for local businesses, from luxury resorts to vibrant street markets, ensures that visitors experience both comfort and authenticity.
Cebu isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a destination to fall in love with. Its elegance lies not only in its landscapes but also in the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the seamless harmony of modernity and tradition. As we leave this island paradise, we take with us not just memories but a deep appreciation for a destination that truly embodies beauty, hospitality, and progress.
For a detailed budget and suggested itinerary, visit my Central Visayas main page.
ALSO READ: T.E.L.L. Bohol’s Thrill: Flowing Rivers, Timeless Hills
About the Author
- Chief Executive Editor
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PJ is a CPA, writer, storyteller, environment and youth advocate. As a writer, his articles on national development were published in a Spanish newspaper and local news network Rappler. As a storyteller and environment advocate, his documentary films on mining and environment were featured by ABS-CBN News and GMA News. He launched his career as a CPA at KPMG in the Philippines in late 2015. He started his professional journey as an external auditor of a global workspace provider (the largest audit client of KPMG in the Philippines), global bank, leading MFCG in the Philippines and a number of shared service centres. As an auditor, his team won the KPMG Asia-Pacific Data & Analytics Challenge and coached the Philippine team that placed third to the KPMG GlobalRunner Cup. More than two years later, he led KPMG in the Philippines’ Network of Audit Innovators and Data & Analytics Champions and its academic arm, while serving as a member of the KPMG Asia-Pacific Audit Digital Transformation Workstream. He served as a member of the Audit Methodology Group and Root Cause Analysis Team of KPMG in the Philippines. He was a regular training facilitator of KPMG on audit methodology, innovation, data and analytics, professional standards and regulatory updates. He also served as a coach for newly promoted supervisors. PJ was also the Firm’s System of Quality Management Implementation Manager and a Workforce of the Future Champion. He was also a Sampling Specialist of the Firm. In 2019, PJ was a member of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA)’s Technical Working Group on Audit Methodology. PJ led in developing some of the innovative solutions of KPMG in the Philippines. Above all, PJ is a people investor. He invests on people who have potential and talents. That makes him a coach and mentor to some young professionals in the profession and served as a People Committee member of KPMG in the Philippines. He leads advocacy projects that help communities. He produces vlogs thru his YouTube channel, PJspirations which features stories of different individuals. As a volunteer, he is the Academic Master and Head Coach of PREMIER International Learning and Development Center, which provides coaching, mentoring, training and learning programs and platforms that promote growth and development in every individual’s life and career. He is also with the Middle East and Caspian regions of KPMG as a member of its Professional Practice group and Audit L&D for the Saudi Levant Cluster, providing subject matter knowledge and guidance on audit methodology, and learning and development programs to its offices. He is a proud Ilocano and a graduate of Northwestern University.
He also conducts #IamRemarkable sessions, a program initiated by Google for women and underrepresented groups.
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