Discovering Cebu City: The Queen City of the South
I still remember the first time I set foot in Cebu City. The warm tropical breeze caressed my face as I stepped out of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the second busiest airport in the Philippines. As someone who loves exploring places rich in history and culture, I was immediately drawn to this vibrant city that perfectly blends the old and new.
A City Steeped in History
Cebu City holds the distinction of being the oldest city in the Philippines, a fact that becomes evident as you explore its historic landmarks. Walking down Colon Street, said to be the oldest and shortest street in the country, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The street buzzes with activity and is surrounded by many of the city's historic attractions.
One cannot talk about Cebu without mentioning Magellan's Cross. Planted in 1521 during Ferdinand Magellan's expedition, this wooden cross stands as a testament to the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. Standing before it, I could almost imagine the momentous historical event that took place right where I stood.
Nearby is the Basilica del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the Philippines. The atmosphere inside is truly awe-inspiring, with its frescoes, statues, and the revered Image of Santo Niño. Every January, the city comes alive with the colorful Sinulog Festival celebrating the Santo Niño through vibrant parades, street dances, and beauty pageants.
Natural Beauty and Adventures
What makes Cebu City truly special is how it offers the best of both worlds. During weekdays, I would work in my rented apartment overlooking the bustling cityscape, but weekends were reserved for adventures. The city is surrounded by natural wonders that are easily accessible.
I spent one unforgettable weekend swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. The gentle giants glided gracefully through the crystal-clear waters, an experience that left me speechless. Another weekend, I ventured to Budlaan Falls, where the cascading waters provided a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
The beaches around Cebu are nothing short of paradise. Larawan Beach in neighboring Talisay City offers soft, white sands perfect for lounging, while Marigondon Beach on Mactan Island is ideal for those seeking water activities. I tried diving at the coral reefs, which was like entering another world filled with vibrant marine life.
For the more adventurous souls, Cebu offers activities like spelunking in caves underneath Talisay, cliff diving, canyoneering, mountain biking, and rock climbing. I attempted canyoneering and jumping down waterfalls into rushing streams—terrifying yet exhilarating!
A Culinary Paradise
My taste buds were in for a treat in Cebu City. The local cuisine is a delightful fusion of local, Spanish, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, and other Asian influences. Fresh seafood features prominently in many dishes, thanks to the city's island location.
From ultra-cheap street food at Carcar Public Market to fine dining establishments, Cebu caters to all budgets and preferences. I found myself becoming addicted to lechon (roasted pig), which Anthony Bourdain once declared the best pig ever!
Modern Amenities and Shopping
Despite its rich history, Cebu City is thoroughly modern. The Cebu Business Park, Asiatown IT Park, and South Road Properties host numerous local and international companies, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Shopping enthusiasts will love the enormous SM City Cebu and the Ayala Center Cebu with its lovely terraced gardens. I spent hours exploring these malls, which offer not just shopping but entertainment options as well, like the huge skating rink at SM Seaside City Mall.
Getting Around
Getting around Cebu is relatively easy. The city serves as a hub for bus travel around the island, with companies like Ceres Liner, Jegans, Gabe Transport, and Metrolink offering services to various locations. For shorter distances, jeepneys and taxis are readily available.
Where to Stay
Cebu City offers accommodation options for every budget. The downtown Colon area has many value-priced options like the Cebu Century Hotel. For those seeking luxury, Mactan Island is home to high-end resorts like Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa.
I chose a mid-range hotel near Fuente Osmena, a century-old park that serves as a meeting place for locals. This central location gave me easy access to shopping and dining options at Mango Square Mall and Robinsons Galleria Cebu.
Final Thoughts
As I packed my bags after two weeks in Cebu City, I felt a twinge of sadness. This city had captured my heart with its rich history, natural beauty, delicious food, and warm people. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Cebu City has something to offer.
There's truly no dull moment in this Queen City of the South, with its rich offerings of music, gastronomy, culture, and history. It's no wonder many foreign expatriates have chosen to make Cebu their home. As for me, I'm already planning my next visit to this tropical paradise.