Cebu spectacles

If you have once visited the magnificent capital city Manila and spent a wonderful time in the paradise island Boracay when in the Philippines, then there is no reason why you do not travel to the beautiful southern city Cebu, where lots of fascinating things await.

The first impression Cebu gives you is definitely the European-style architectural works that are found everywhere across the city. That is because Cebu was once occupied by the Spanish army in the early sixteenth century.

With a cool and mild climate, Cebu is an ideal destination during any season of the year. Still, the best time to visit this city is between May and July, when there are a lot of fun activities associated with the sea, which will certainly leave you with unforgettable experiences. Besides, Cebu hosts a diverse system of lodging facilities, from common to high-end, all making it convenient for tourists to make their choice.

Cebu is home to numerous islands of various sizes, with the distance from one to another not so long, only a few dozen minutes by train. You may travel to Nalusuan, Caohagan or Hilutungan to immerse yourself in the pleasantly cool, blue sea. If Hilutungan takes you on a trip to delight in the brilliant coral reefs, Caohagan opens the way to fine white sand beaches along which are hundreds of restaurants with delicious fresh seafood dishes. Meanwhile, Nalusuan sends you to a boundless ocean paradise with crystal-clear waves.

When relishing the splendid seascape in Cebu, you cannot miss those interesting activities such as diving, mountain climbing and trekking. Diving in Moalboal is an excellent suggestion to tackle the sweltering summer days. There are two beaches in Moalboal, Panagsama Beach and White Beach, where you can enjoy diving to your heart’s content, play with the fish swimming around and witness the grand spectacle of coral reefs in the vast underwater world. Those who love the thrills should make their way to Kawasan Falls at the foot of the mountain range Barangay Matutinao in Badian, 13 kilometers southwest of Cebu City. The charming scenery, the endless natural greenery and the gush of emerald green water formed by large rocks shall leave you in awe.

Back in the heart of the city, just take a walk around the streets and you will run into the basilica Minore Del Santo Nino. This is considered the oldest Roman Cathedral church in the country, and also the largest pilgrimage site in Cebu. On weekends, people flock to Santo Nino to perform extremely solemn religious ceremonies. You shall deeply feel such religiosity through the image of people willing to sit for hours under the blazing sun to pray and repent, then lighting the candles and walking around the giant candlesticks to offer up their prayers. Not just Santo Nino, you will also have a chance to admire the majestic fortress of Fuerte de San Pedro, which used to be a military defense structure and a stronghold for revolutionaries. Built in 1783, San Pedro is shaped like a triangle with two faces facing the sea and the other facing the mainland. In addition to San Pedro, Casa Gorordo is suitable for visitors who want to learn about the history of the Philippines. This museum vividly recreates the life of Filipinos from the 1860s to the early twentieth century. There are still other famous landmarks such as the Magellan Shrine, Old Colon Street - where the houses dating back to the colonization of America gather, the Magellan’s Cross - the important historical symbol of Cebu... All constantly urge travelers to set out on their journey to explore.

Minh Tho