You can’t leave the city without sampling its many delicious versions of the world-famous lechon. After all, we have Cebu to thank for the well-loved delicacy. If you ask a local about the best lechon in the city, you’ll probably get many different answers. But you can narrow down your search to maybe less than 10 shops such as Rico’s or Carcar’s. If you have time, the smartest thing to do is test-taste them all and decide for yourself.

The Crown Regency in Cebu City is home to one of the first Edge Coasters in the world. The ride goes around the outer rim of the hotel’s top floor, and tilts you in a 45 degree angle facing down. The experience also includes the Sky Walk Extreme where guests are allowed to walk on a clear glass panel with only a harness protecting them from falling.

Fort San Pedro is a centuries old fortress formerly used as a military defense structure during the time of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Inside, you’ll learn of the fort’s changes throughout the years as it served as one of Cebu’s first line of defense against invaders attacking from the sea. Today, the structure functions as a museum and park where visitors can learn about the Spanish occupation in Cebu.

The Yap Sandiego Ancestral House is one of the oldest and longest standing houses in the Philippines. Built in the 17th century, the home of Don Yap and Doña Maria Florido has still maintained its original structure and interiors. Today, it is still owned by one of their descendants, and is filled with ancient and contemporary Cebuano art and furniture.

Colon Street used to be where one of the most prominent residents of the Queen City used to live. Trendy boutiques, shops and theaters filled the streets, up until the commercial giants came the city. Though most of its high-society residents have moved away, the historic street still attracts crowds looking to go bargain shopping. Today, you’ll find ukay-ukays, and the annual night market with stalls that sell goods for as low as PHP 5 pesos per item.

One of the must-try delicacies and favorite pasalubongs from Cebu is the the danggit also known as rabbit fish in english. And the best place to find the popular dried fish is Taboan Market. While the bestseller in the market is the danggit, you can also choose from other local items such as chicharon bulaklak and dried mangoes, all sold for very reasonable prices.

In true generous Filipino fashion, you can’t leave a place without shopping for your whole barangay back home. Here, you can score all things Cebuano and perfect pasalubong items such as otap, galletas de huevo, house-baked polvoron and many more.

There’s nothing more relaxing than a good massage, and the Cebu City Zoo is aware of that. That’s why one of their most popular attractions and “services” is the Python Spa treatment. Zoo guests simply have to lie down on a bamboo bed and wait for the four giant reptiles to be placed on top of them. They say that the combined slithering motion of the snakes gives a calming effect while the flickering of tongues gives you a tickling sensation. If you’re afraid about the possibility of getting bitten -- have no fear, the snakes are served about 10 whole chickens each in order to curb their hunger before a treatment.

If you’re up for some good food and great adventure then head up to the Adventure Cafe in Balamban. The cafe is located up a beautiful municipality dubbed as the “little Tagaytay” of Cebu. There you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding greens and even take a zipline to appreciate it further. Other unique features of the restaurant include a “stress wall” where guests are encouraged to throw plates, and as well as a climbing wall.

If you’re planning a trip to Cebu then it’s a good idea to schedule it around the dates of the Sinulog festival. Though it’s is officially a celebration of the introduction of Christianity in the country, the festival is more known for its exciting and colorful street parties. People from all over the world flock to Cebu to witness the parades, the grand fireworks display, and a show of the Queen City’s most talented performers and artists.

Discover Hotels in Cebu City with Pool Perfect for a Relaxing Getaway]]>