Cebu is strategically located at the heart of the Philippine archipelago. Being in such an advantageous geographical location, this city of 2.3 million people became one of the most significant trading and commercial hubs of the Philippines, which consequently made it an economic powerhouse and a top-tier Southeast Asian city.
Apart from its rapid urbanization and robust economic growth, the island of Cebu is also home to some of the most stunning tourist attractions on all of the Philippines islands. With its pristine white sand beaches, beautiful rolling hills and several adventurous attractions, we certainly can’t blame why millions of tourists come to see and experience the Queen City of the South.
Cebu, however, is more than just a premier tourist destination - it is an experience in itself. Here are some of the most underrated facets of Cebu’s tourism that make visiting this island paradise an experience unlike any other:
The late Anthony Bourdain himself who’s a highly acclaimed celebrity chef and food critic, has nothing but praises for Cebu’s pride and specialty dish, lechon. In his words, he described it as “the best pig ever”. Such a comment coming from someone with Bourdain’s repertoire is a testament to how tasty and delicious Cebu Lechon really is.
Your visit to Cebu will never be complete without trying out the pride and joy of their culinary prowess. It is certainly a cuisine you could never find elsewhere.
If you want to experience an out of this world mardi gras, colorful floats, graceful dancers parading the streets, and a city-wide street party, then Cebu’s Sinulog Festival will definitely serve you right. Dubbed as the mother of all Philippine festivals, Sinulog is where you can see the colorful Filipino culture on full display.
The Sinulog Festival is held every 3rd week of January in celebration and thanksgiving to Cebu’s patron saint Sto. Niño.
While there’s no mistaking Cebu as a 21st century urban metropolis, if you stray far enough to its outskirts, it seems to just morph into an isolated island with nothing but paved roads, palm trees and white sand beaches in sight. The great thing about Cebu is that the commerce, trade and urbanization are all concentrated in its capital, Cebu City leaving the towns and villages in the outskirts virtually untouched.
Even if you stay mainly in the city during your trip, paradise is quite literally just a few hours away.
The rural municipalities of Cebu is where the charm of this island truly resides. You’d be hard pressed not to notice the laid-back island vibe that just envelopes the countryside.
There’s just an inexplicably happy feeling that resonates with seeing both locals and tourists in tank tops, shorts and flip flops. It just makes you feel like you’re in paradise; and Cebu is exactly just that - a paradise.
Of all the things that make Cebu amazing, the Cebuano people is its greatest and most priceless asset. They are warm, hospitable and kind. They will greet you with the biggest smiles and will instantly make you feel at home.
The women of Cebu is also one of its most prominent tourism draws. It is known to be home to some of the most beautiful and gorgeous Filipino women in all of the 7000 plus islands that make up the Philippine archipelago. As a result, a lot of foreign bachelors visit Cebu in search of true love.
There is a lot more to discover in Cebu than just what we mentioned above. Make a trip to the island and you’re guaranteed to be leaving with experiences and memories you will not soon forget. This is definitely a destination you have to tick-off from your Philippines travel bucket list.