Cebu is a popular beach resort in the Philippines. It offers a wide range of activities. What comes to mind when you think about the Philippines? Beach resort? This is normal, since the Philippines has over 7000 different islands.
Travel safely to Cebu with these tips
Visa
Most visitors to the Philippines can enter without a visa for up to 30days. Always ensure that your passport is valid at least six months before you travel!
Flights
Cebu is best reached by international flight if you are not already in the Philippines. There are several direct flights into Cebu, notably from Korea – I counted at least 5 departure flights to Seoul or Busan while waiting for mine back to Singapore – Taipei, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, Bangkok and Singapore. Those from outside Asia may have to transit at one of these cities.
Ferry
If you prefer to take ferry rides or reduce your carbon footprint, you can also take ferries between Manila and Cebu. The journey takes approximately 24 hours. Ferries make it easy to hop islands in the Philippines.
Cebu at its Best: The Best Time to Visit?
Cebu’s climate is pretty constant, but can be divided into the hot and dry months as well as the still hot and wet ones.
If you’re coming from Singapore, know that the temperature and humidity are somewhat similar, hovering between 26°C – 34°C. The air is dustier. Cebuanos, it is said, tend to burn leaves at dusk. The more traffic in Cebu also means more dust and exhaust. However, the secluded areas of Cebu are generally fine.
Jan to May are dry months. I visited in April and there was no rainfall for the entire week. It was hot and dusty. Sunburn can be avoided by wearing the right sun protection.
Jun to Dec is usually wetter and has more rainfall, but the rest of the year is pretty similar.
Money
Cash is king. We budgeted enough money to cover our diving trips, food, and transportation during my week-long trip in Cebu. Although you can still use your card to pay in some establishments, there may be additional charges.
What to Wear
Filipinos are still conservative. It’s best to wear shirts and shorts with modesty. Bikinis should be covered after leaving the beaches.
To protect myself from dust and the sun, I wore airy pants and quick-dry shirts for my trip to Cebu. This outfit is perfect for visiting churches such as the Basilica del Santo Nino, in Cebu City and the Simala Parish Church.
Key Places to visit
Cebu has many attractions that a first-time visitor would enjoy.
Cebu City: Also known as the Queen City of the South. Most travellers start their journey in Cebu City. Cebu City is also a transit point between North and South Cebu.
Malapascua: A nice chill island famous for its thresher sharks – we saw three! A beautiful place for snorkeling or scuba diving. You can also rent a car and explore the other remote Malapascua Island beaches.
Bohol: The home of the world’s second smallest and oldest living primate – the Tarsier.
Moalboal: Is a place for adventure. Explore the coral walls under Pescador Island by scuba diving or snorkeling with the sardines. Kawasan Falls has milky blue water.
Oslob: Although controversial, you can swim with Whale Sharks that are attracted by food. Sumilon Island is a great place to enjoy the beaches and underwater life.
Siquijor: another beautiful island located south of Cebu, has stunning waterfalls and mysterious caves. It also offers excellent diving sites and pristine beachfronts.
