Cebu Introduction
Known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu reigns as one of the country's top tourism and business destinations. Impressive skyscrapers dominate the city's skyline, while heritage buildings are a constant reminder of its rich history and culture. Tourism is a thriving industry in Cebu, thanks in part to its proximity to breathtaking beaches, modern shopping facilities, and lively festivals that draw visitors from all over the country and other parts of the world.
Hotels in Cebu
Hotels in Cebu range from budget-friendly inns and hostels to more upscale mid-range and 5-star hotels and resorts. Some luxury hotels in Cebu can be considered destinations on their own, with opulently decorated poolside villas and tranquil gardens, as well as outdoor pools and private beaches. Apartment hotels are ideal if you're planning an extended stay in the city. Comfortable suites with full kitchens, and amenities such as free Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and fitness centers contribute to a pleasant experience. Budget-conscious guests can get more bang for their buck in some cheap hotels in Cebu, with amenities such as free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast.
Where to stay
Downtown Cebu enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a bargain hunter's paradise. Wet markets selling meat and fish, as well as street vendors hawking everything from toys, flowers, fruits, and cheap clothing, are already up and about shortly after dawn. Fashionable boutiques and restaurants serving local and international dishes can be found in practically every nook and cranny. The Zapatera district is home to several business and boutique hotels, as well as to a number of sports bars and pubs that serve hearty fare. Nearby Mactan Island is where you'll find the international airport. Snorkeling and diving spots are within easy reach, making the island a popular tourist destination.
Things to see
You'll find no shortage of historical sites in Cebu, one of which is
Fort San Pedro. Located in the Plaza Independencia area, its stone walls were erected by the Spaniards in the early 17th century as a defense against Muslim raiders. Designated a historical park, it houses a museum that showcases relics from the city's colonial past. A few kilometers away, on Mactan Island, sits the
Magellan Shrine. Named after the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, the stone memorial tower was constructed in 1886, on the site where Magellan was believed to have been slain by the local chieftain Lapu Lapu. This is where you'll find the famed Magellan's cross, which he planted on the island upon his arrival in 1521. End the day by making your way to the Tops lookout point on Mount Busay. Magnificent stone walls lead to a deck where you can watch the sun set and the city start to twinkle far below as night falls.
How to get to Cebu
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport receives numerous local and international flights daily. Some Cebu hotels offer a free shuttle service, which can get you from the airport on Mactan Island to the city in about an hour. The MyBus service is a cheaper alternative to taxis, with air-conditioned buses departing from the airport roughly every 30 minutes to go to the city center. Going to Cebu by boat is another option for travelers. Large passenger ferries dock regularly at the Port of Cebu, the country's largest domestic port. To travel for cheap in Cebu, you can do as the locals do and ride a jeepney or a bus, which you can find everywhere in the city.
