Why Travel To Cebu?

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(Map of Cebu | source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cebu_City)


Why would one travel to Cebu? What is its niche compared to the other islands in the Philippines? First and foremost, every island in the Philippines has wonders they can share worldwide. Cebu is also the same.

         The cradle of Christianity—once Ferdinand Magellan landed on the shores of Sugbu (Cebu), many native Cebuanos converted to Christianity, starting with its rules, Rajah Humabon (Don Carlos) and Hara Humamay (Reyna Juana). Days after the baptism, Ferdinand Magellan gifted Reyna Juana—as per her request—Cebu became the first Christian Island in the Philippines.

         The rich precolonial, colonial, and modern influences of Cebu’s history and culture made the island a desired tourist destination. One such grand tourist attraction is the Sinulog Festival where locals showcased their undying devotion to Señor Santo Niño through music, dancing, and singing. Other notable things to explore in Cebu are its historical places that date back to the 16th century. Did you know that the oldest street in the Philippines is in Cebu? Colon Street, named after the explorer, Christopher Colombus, was established by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in 1565 and is still used today by everyone as the central hub of the commercial industry of Cebu. Regarding Cebu’s rich history, the island has many museums that collect, protect, and preserve the tangible and intangible culture and traditions of the bygone years. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Cebu’s museums are the best place to explore and learn more about the island.

(Old Photograph of the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu | source: https://www.facebook.com/BMSNCebu/photos/pcb.1791959154169002/1791954844169433/)

         Aside from the museums, Cebu also has various places worth exploring. Most of these places were located on the highlands, offering a perfect city view. One such place is the famous Tops Cebu, located in Barangay Busay, which has a view of the whole metropolitan. Gardens and Eco Farms have also become desired destination spots in Cebu. Buwakan ni Alejandra and Sirao Garden were two of the well-known gardens in highland Cebu these places not only had beautiful scenery perfect for photography, but the two gardens also aimed to propagate the flora and fauna of the island. These gardens also hope to inspire visitors to learn more about the different flowers in their nurseries.

(Wide view of Sirao Garden | source: Lomgral Travel and Tours)

         Cebu is a hub of tourist spots from museums, to highland places, to beaches, and not to mention the historic houses and churches from the colonial era still stand as a witness of the past. On the south side of Cebu, old houses from the 17th – 19th centuries were keenly preserved and served as a time capsule for modern folks to see and experience.

         You can also experience the culture of Cebu through its variety of food. Cebu will not be the ever-famous Cebu without the Lechon. The City of Carcar is well-known for its Lechon and it is a must for everyone to try. Argao also has the best torta which has a balanced taste of sweetness that is a perfect pasalubong. If you are interested in kakanin dessert, there in Sogod, they have the best bud-bud kabog. Bogo also has its delicious kakanin which is the Pintos. Pintos is made of ground corn and coconut strips wrapped in corn husk. You can also have the special Pintos that has cheese inside. Cebu is a melting pot of local and Spanish-inspired dishes that shaped its cuisine so everyone, whether local or from the far seas, can enjoy. 

(Lechon Cebu | source: https://proudbisayabai.ph/food/2023/03/03/lechon-capital)
Location: Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines

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