First-time in Cebu City: The Queen City of the Philippines

With a stroke of imagination and a palette of vibrant words, let me paint for you the sprawling canvas of Cebu City. Imagine a tapestry woven from the threads of rich history and pulsating modernity, where the skyline dances with skyscrapers, and colonial remnants stand proudly as testament to bygone eras. The streets are the strokes of life, vibrant and bustling, a symphony of diverse cultures, sizzling street food aromas, and the rhythmic melody of friendly conversations.

In this enchanting masterpiece, nature adds its own brushstrokes, as azure waves caress pristine beaches, lush mountains embrace verdant valleys, and majestic waterfalls cascade into emerald pools. Cebu City is a living work of art, inviting you to immerse yourself in its breathtaking tapestry and embark on a thrilling adventure unlike any other.

Cebu is the oldest city in the Philippines. Apart from its rich and colorful history, Cebu is known for so many things — the guitars, the food, the churches, the Taoist temple, the nightlife, and a lot more.

My first-time in Cebu

I remember my first visit in Cebu when I was 10 years old. My mother studied in the University of San Carlos, one of the oldest schools, in Cebu. We went to many famous landmarks which I still visit whenever I go to Cebu, taking friends and other tourists with us.

Getting to Cebu is very easy because of the numerous flights from Manila and other Philippine and international airports. Cebu has an international airport so it’s easy to get to this place. It also has ports where passenger vessels bring people to and from any part of the archipelago.

In non-peak season, local flights are very cheap to as low as $100 or even less. Usually, these are during the months of February or September. But if you want to go there when visitors are many go there in January during Sinulog or the Feast of the Sto. Nino. Street dancing and a lot of revelry are done during this celebration.

Jeepneys are popular mode of transportation. They pass through almost every part of the city. You just have to ask which route they are taking. Taxis are also everywhere, and they are metered, so it’s easier to take them. The malls and hotels are where most taxis line up and if you want to shop, rest assured that you can easily get a ride. There are also tricycles available in smaller alleys but try walking to familiar yourself better to the ins & outs of the city.

I have listed down some Cebu tourist spots. The first five items here, I visited them during that first-time I went to Cebu. The rest were sights I have come to visit during my succeeding trips to this city.

Magellan’s Cross: A must-visit in Cebu

A must-see in Cebu is the Magellan’s Cross, the one erected by the Spaniards during their arrival. Magellan’s Cross is called as such because it is the original wooden cross that Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan planted when he arrived in Cebu. Because of the effects of time, weather and other external factors, it could not be avoided that the wooden cross would be subject to wear and tear. To preserve this historic landmark, the original cross was cast with wooden planks.

At present, the cross is housed in a small octagonal shaped structure. It has wide windows that let light shine through. The ceiling has a narrative painting of that fateful day with Magellan, along with Spanish soldiers, planted the cross on that same spot.

This landmark is relevant to the Filipinos because it signified the locals’ conversion to Christianity. Because of the arrival of the Spaniards, the Philippines has become a significant mover in the Christian faith. In fact, the country remains to be the only Catholic nation in Asia.

Sto. Nino Basilica de Cebu

Beside it is the old Sto. Nino Cathedral, which houses the old relic of Santo Nino, said to be the original statue given by the Spaniards to the Cebuana queen.

Ever heard the story how the figure of the Holy Child Jesus, or Santo Niño, found its way in the Philippine shores? It was said that the figure was given as a gift to the wife of the local chieftain. Then, when a fire struck it was said that the figure was found unburned and still intact, a miracle that was instrumental in the conversion of the local tribes into Christianity.

The said figure is believed to be the same figure that is kept inside the Sto. Niño Basilica. Locals and believers from other towns, islands and countries flock to the Cathedral to visit the Sto, Niño which is also a miraculous one. During its feast day, usually celebrated with a Sinulog Festival every first month of the year, people would paint themselves black to symbolize the early Filipino aborigines, known as Negritos or Aetas. A figure of the child Jesus is paraded in the main streets of Cebu hyped with some street dancing.

Every year the clothes of the original Santo Niño figure is changed and the clothes worn during the past year is placed on the replica that is shown on the altar. So, you want to visit the century-old icon of the Holy Child Jesus? Say Viva Pit Señor Sto. Niño!

Taoist Temple

At the higher part of the city, in Beverly Hills, is where the Taoist Temple can be found. Many tourists come here, climbing its 99 steps, and have their photos taken. At the other side is the road to TOPS, where the entire metropolitan area of Cebu, including the city of Mandaue and of Lapu-Lapu, capital of Mactan, can also be seen. Apart from the historical spots, Cebu is also a thriving city, with its large malls, beautiful hotels, and enticing resorts. But don’t miss to go to the market to buy the local delicacies and some souvenir items.

Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu

Cebu’s main thoroughfare that connects various historical and political landmarks is Osmeña Boulevard which is named after Cebu’s son, former Philippine President Sergio Osmeña. It used to be called Jones Avenue.

The long highway is right smack in the center of Cebu City. It starts north at the Provincial Capitol and cuts towards Fuente Osmeña and Robinson’s Cebu Midtown Hotel complex and south towards Del Rosario St.

Various hotels and coffee shops are found along Osmeña Boulevard. Just walk along the avenue and you’ll find almost everything you need. From malls to historic sites to restaurants, Osmeña Boulevard has so much to offer.

Tabo-an Market

Ever heard of dried fish and dried seafood? Tabo-an Market is the place to be. Although the vicinity is notorious for beggars and pickpockets, as long as you’re careful, you can find glorious food buys in Tabo-an.

Rows of dried fish stalls are ready to greet you upon your arrival. You’ll find dried fish that comes in various sizes and shapes. Add to these are dried squids, preserved oysters, and some sweets like dried mangoes and tamarind candies.

But the best part of shopping for dried food in Tabo-an is the bargaining. If you buy in bulks or great amounts you have the edge of striking a good deal. To make sure you get the better quality, it would be advisable to have a local go with you but if you are going there on your own or with fellow tourists, who know nothing about buying dried food, just make sure the goods you’re buying is packed well and sealed. If they’re in the basket, choose the ones that looks crisp and without dust.

If you can buy at a low price then you are ready for a delicious authentic Cebuano dining experience.

Marcelo Fernan Bridge

Before, the only means to cross the Cebu Strait was through a small boat that will take one from the ports of Mandaue to the ports of Mactan. Then the Mandaue-Mactan Bridge was built. I remembered passing through this bridge when I first came to Cebu in 1997.

Now, a decade after, another bridge is passable to get people to transport from Mactan to Cebu. The second bridge is the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, named after a statesman who came from Cebu.

The Marcelo Fernan Bridge is much longer than the first bridge. It looks more modern in architectural and engineering design. Cables are place on either side of the bridge just like the European suspension bridges. From the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, motorists can see the wonderful view of both islands.

With the construction of the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, traffic has become bearable especially for those coming and going to the airport. Transfer of goods and services has also become more convenient compared to the time when only a single bridge existed.

Shangri-la Mactan

The international hotel chain Shangri-la recently built Shangri-la’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa that has become a favorite among tourists. It hosted the ASEAN Summit, accommodating heads of states and government officials from the region. International and national media were housed in Shangri-la for various global events held in this hotel.

Shangri-la is popular among travelers and health buffs because of its Chi Spa which has been highly acclaimed internationally. It is isolated from the hotel giving Spa goers a relaxed and serene environment. It has two pools, the main pool found at the center of the hotel grounds and the Ocean Wing pool which is nearer the seaside. Apart from these pools, Shangri-la offers a great beach front where one can snorkel and parasail.

When it comes to feasting, Shangri-la Mactan serves the best foods. For breakfast, a wide array of choices at Tides’ buffet could really fill one’s eyes and gustatory taste, as well. A bit limited version is available at Acqua, which is an Italian Restaurant. While Tides gives a great view of the main pool, Acqua has a fresher perspective as it looks out to nearby Ocean Wing Pool and the sea. At night, you can hang out at Cowrie Cove with a great open air bar and restaurant along the seawall, beautiful ambiance and look with its wooden planks and water-themed designs It might be a long walk from the main hotel building to Cowrie Cove.

Cross over the wooden bridge from Cowrie Cove and you’ll find a wonderful venue for wedding receptions or cocktails, the Ocean Pavilion. Triangular in shape, the Ocean Pavilion is air conditioned and has glass doors for a beautiful view of the green landscape. Ocean Pavilion has a driveway where golf carts can bring guests from the hotel building.

Lastly, Shangri-la has complete facilities: a business center, function rooms for meetings, large and medium-sized ballrooms, gym and videoke rooms. I would say that my stay at Shanri-la Mactan was a wonderful one with the commendable facilities, great staff, luxurious rooms and breathtaking views.

Casino Español de Cebu

Casino Espaňol has a colorful history since it is located in the residential area of Cebu’s prominent families during the early 20th century. The ancestral homes of these families are still found in the area. Casino Espaňol started out in the 1920s when a group of Cebuanos with Spanish descent or those who are Spanish enthusiasts banded together and formed a group that is sort of a club.

The original Casino Español at Legaspi St. which opened in 1920 later moved to Ranudo St. which opened in 2004. Although a different venue now, the Spanish ambiance still fills the Casino Español environment.

From just a clubhouse, Casino Español has become an attraction in Cebu not just for its facilities but for its quality service that makes members feel more at home. Most of the members are relatives and descendants of the original group that put up Casino Español. It boasts of a bowling ally, billiard tables and pelota, badminton and tennis courts.

The place also has a large area where the kids can play around and a pool where they can cool down. Members can relax at the Terraza near the pool. Tourists who come and take a look at the interior of the club will find a beautiful fountain at the midst of a wide, high-ceiling hall. The wide paintings on the wall, the wooden parts of the building and the decorations transport visitors into an Asian interior with a touch of European flavour.

They also have function rooms that can be rented out for all occasions. Non-members can rent these rooms and other facilities especially for wedding parties as long as they are sponsored of members. But the main attraction is the restaurant known for its expanding menu brought about by the different contributions and new dishes, especially Spanish cuisines, shared by the members of the club.

But not losing sight of its vision of promoting the Spanish culture, there are various activities in the club that highlights the Spanish tradition. To check out the facilities and calendar, visit www.casinoespanol.ph.

Golden Cowrie

Golden Cowrie is a famous restaurant in Cebu. When people ask about food, dining and fun, Golden Cowrie is no doubt the answer of many local Cebuanos. Its main branch is found in Salinas Drive where there’s an air-conditioned and open-air areas. And because of its popularity, Golden Cowrie has branched out in the famous mall, SM City.

But what can you enjoy at Golden Cowrie? Apart from the great ambiance both inside and outside the restaurant, one can find delicious Filipino delicacies. For those who are not familiar with Filipino food, Golden Cowrie offers kare-kare, sinigang (a Filipino sour food), lechon kawali, and grilled seafood.

When you are in Golden Cowrie, you’ll get the best of the Philippines. You can eat just using your hands and have your food on banana leaves. Even the sink and other parts of the restaurant are made of bamboo and local products. Sometimes they also feature paintings of local artists.

Parking is not a problem at Golden Cowrie. For tourists, cabs are likewise easy to hail at Salinas Drive.

Islands Souvenirs

When it comes to shopping for souvenir items or delicacies to take home with you, Islands Souvenirs in the Philippines would have something available for you. It was founded by the young entrepreneur Jay Aldeguer, who is a native of Cebu. His little shop has blossomed and can now be found in major cities and malls throughout the Philippines.

So successful was the concept that it has now its Islands Souvenirs shops in Singapore, Macau, Japan and the USA. Islands Souvenirs’ bright and neon-colored shops are very attractive to tourists. Its Pasalubong Center in Mactan must be the largest there is. A big colored drawing of a girl in Hawaiian skirt greets visitors to the shop.

Main souvenir items found were shirts and shorts and other stuff you use in the island like slippers and bags. There were also little desk decors, home trimmings, and fashion accessories like necklaces and bangles made of shells or native materials. You can also buy key chains, magnets with Cebu landmarks and Cebu travel guides.

The other half of the store was dedicated to native delicacies. From dried mangoes to dried fishes, you name it, you can find all kinds of local food products of Cebu in Islands Souvenirs. Their stores in the malls don’t have these products but the big Pasalubong Center in Mactan has everything.