A Warning for Cebu Travelers

Manila travelers often think that traveling outside Manila is inexpensive. well, this could be true if that place is somewhere far from Cebu. Yes, there are so much to learn before going straight to Cebu, and these are no-minor tips.

Here are the things to expect in Cebu:

People

If you are a Tagalog (this is how Cebuanos would call you if you are from Manila), don't expect to receive juice of hospitality. It is not that Cebuanos are ill-mannered, their words just come stronger than Tagalog people.

If you hear them speak loud, don't be offended, they talk in that manner. It comes with their speech to say words loud and fast.


Transportation

But one thing about Cebu makes me at ease; their taxi drivers are honest. Unlike in Manila, taxi drivers in Cebu give exact payment change and you would never experience traveling the entire city to get a charge twice as due.

But if you wish to save, jeepneys are everywhere. Drivers charge P6.50 for the minimum distance.


Food

If you are thinking that you can save from food expense, then you are damn wrong. Even street food vendor would charge you equally to what average restaurant in Manila ask for.A piece of siomai would range from 6 to 10 pesos compared to 2 to 5 pesos charge in Manila.

Same with the practice in Manila, you cannot just drink from anywhere. Even if this is a province, the water is not safe for drinking.

But if you are born to love pizza, then be amazed. You will find pizza restaurants street after street. People here are so in love with pizza.

Lechong Cebu is another thing to go for. There is something different in the taste, something i cannot figure out, perhaps herbs that make the lechon acceptable to eat even if it is not served hot. But if you are Manileno who cannot eat lechon without the savory sauce, be sad. Lechong baboy in Cebu is served without the sarsa.


Shopping

It is such a surprise for me that the best shopping destination is Cebu. Yes, if you want branded clothes, you will find them three times lower from hidden stores in here. I got my AERO jacket for just P550, my Zara skirt for P350 and polo shoes for P900.

Plus, if you are going gaga over loose shirt, then you will love it in here. Good Korean style stuff are here. Why? Korean people are everywhere. Yes, you will find several Gu Jun Pyo looking guys here.

Finally, if you are looking for 168-like mall, they have it. I told you, Koreans are everywhere. The surprise is, they charge way to small. a dress that may cost around 350 to 500 in 168 Mall will only range from 150 to 180 around here. Cool huh?

Whith this, i ended up being charged by Cebu Pacific so high for my excess baggage.

Beaches and Resorts

Get your swim wears ready because you are to leap from beaches to beaches!

The funny thing is, some resorts charge as low as P100 entrance fee, but the ambiance is extravagant. With this amount, you will have the chance to swim in an infinity pool, play around in the tennis court and billiard halls, take several pictures and enjoy various shapes of pools.

If we are talk talk about beaches, I'm sorry Boracay, but i would have to place my bet in Cebu. The southern part of Cebu keeps several almost untouched beaches. Unlike Boracay, the beaches here are secluded, so if you want serenity, then this is your place. White sand, never commercialized beaches are Cebu's pride.

So, that's a glimpse of Cebu. I am talking from experience so pardon me if your judgements differ. I would love to hear your comments.