Once upon a time in CEBU

I am a historical sites and nature lover, that is why I love places like Cebu and Corregidor.  Last time I've been to Cebu was many years ago when my elder sister took an entrance exam in San Carlos University. Of course she passed but pursued UP Diliman.  The people of cebu are friendly and welcoming. 

After the tiring busy audit and tax season for the recently ended fiscal year, I decided to book a flight home to Samar but I thought side trip to Cebu would be great since it’s just few hours away from Samar.  I invited my close friend Karen, who is a travel bug to join me with my plans in visiting our friends in cebu. I was lucky enough to have a fantastic group of friends in high school. 

We stayed in Sampaguita Suites. The place was perfect for us  because it is cheap, clean, comfortable, and located in front of Sto Nino Church and Magellan’s cross. We occupied a standard room for 3pax/night for only P1,200. Transportation in cebu is a little problem for backpackers because taxi cabs are few and jeepney is not advisible for touring in cebu. 

We ate our lunch in AA’s Isda and Baboy bbqs located at Salinas Drive, Lahug.  I love their Calamaris and pork belly - they have awesome BBQ sauce.

Larsian Barbecue Center

Cebu's Lechon and Chicharon Bulaklak

We also tried different barbeques in Larsian sa fuente, one of Cebu’s famous tourist attraction where vendors served affordable grilled meat and fish dishes.  

We have been to Alumnos Street where a bunch of lechon stores are in line. We indulged ourselves with lechon and ate up a lot of pu-so (hanging rice).  

This trip to Cebu was gastronomically satisfying.   It's pretty much affordable and the visit was great! I would consider visiting Cebu again. Next time I go to cebu, I'll be visiting the region's beautiful beaches.

Of course what’s a travel in Cebu if you don’t go to the famous Cebu tourist spots including Taoist Temple, Cebu Cathedral and Magellan’s Cross.  Climbing the stairs of Taoist temple is tiring but rewarding and exciting with all the beautiful views and the sanctity of the temple itself. Taxi fare from Cebu  City to Taoist Temple amounted to P250 only.

Sayotee and Kamotee :)

Revisited at night

We also visited Sto. Niño Church just beside Magellan’s cross. 

Cebu’s night life rotates in Mango Avenue, where different bars, clubs, and restaurants are located. If you’re new to Cebu and you want to party I advise that start as early as 9pm because by 10pm clubs and bars are already full. Videoke in cebu is cheaper compared to manila. Minimum rate amounts to P99 per room per hour.

Travelling with friends can be a true test of friendship. Being cooped up together in a taxi, ferry, combining an impromptu getaway with an overdue bonding session seemed like the perfect antidote to season's glumness.