Cebu, as filipinos pronounce it as Sebu, is an island magnificently located to the east of Negros, west of Leyte and Bohol. Adding to its main island, are the smaller ones, which include Mactan, Bantayan, Malapascua, Olango and Camotes Islands.
Going back to history, Ferdinand Magellan, a spanish conqueror, together with Enrique as his translator, came to Rajah Humabon of Cebu to persuade him and his natives to create an allegiance. As proof of friendship and peace, The Sto Nino, was given to Juana, the queen of the island. On the 14th of April, Magellan then erected the large wooden cross, of which until now can be seen.
June 8-10, 2013 (Saturday to Monday)
Itinerary with Budget for a group of 12:
P's Notes:
- Kamias shake is a must-try. Available at Zubuchon in One Mango.
- Extreme adventure becomes more intense, thanks to the staff who are very persistent in convincing us to do those scary stunts
- Taxi drivers in Cebu allows only 4 passengers per taxi.
- The Sumilon day tour cost is super worth it. It is inclusive of boat transfers, to and from the island, use of ALL facilities (Kayak, snorkeling gears, infinity pool, island trek) and also a very very delicious buffet lunch.
- Go for a trek in the island. It is a must. Wonderful scenery indeed.
-Sugbutel Dorm rooms are nice and comfy.
-For the City tour, if you start early (before 10 am) go first to the Basilica. Fort San Pedro opens at 10 am. Do not expect much though. It is smaller than Manila's Fort Santiago.
-I like CNT Lechon Cebu (400 pesos per kilo) than that of ZubuChon.
- For pasalubong, go to Shamrock.
- Visit Yap-Sandiego House. Almost 90% are more than hundred of years. And the funny thing is, the present owners are still using the house as a vacation house. Very nice.
- I thought the Magellan's cross is that same cross we see in post cards. What I have discovered is that, the original cross is actually inside that cross. Sigh*
- Cebuanos, they are the friendliest. Do not hesitate to ask for help. Speak in english as much as possible. They will still answer you in Cebuano dialect, though they will try to translate in Tagalog. What I like about them is that they do not take advantage if you are a tourist. They will give you the price as is. Even the taxi drivers, they will give you your change (Unlike in Manila, they always keep the change).
For best of Cebu, click here
For Pictures from Sumilon, click here
Going extreme? Click here
For hundered years old house, click here
Cebu City Tour, click here
