TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE: Basking in the Southern Sun

EXPLORE TRAVEL CEBU UNITED KINGDOM SILVERSEA

TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE

BASKING IN THE

SOUTHERN SUN

OPENING PHOTO BY MICHAEL JO.

CEIA YLAGAN is captivated by the charm, creativity, congeniality, and cuisine of Cebu

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M

y past two visits to Cebu had never been for fun.

Both were quick trips that merited only a glimpse of the Queen City of the South, so you might say that I barely took a bite out of this tropical paradise and its bounties.

It was therefore refreshing to finally experience Cebu on a more leisurely pace, with a good balance of work interspersed with a much yearned for holiday.

Mactan Island boasts of a number of luxury resorts that complement islandhopping and beach adventures, as well as watersports activities along Mactan Strait.

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For basking in the sunshine, we chose the Crimson Resort and Spa on Mactan Island, a luxury six-hectare property that’s the ideal hideaway for a relaxing holiday away from Cebu’s bustling metropolis. Here, Balinese-inspired villas provide a tranquil dwelling place amidst a refreshingly natural setting, making it the perfect base to explore the best of Cebu.

All day the cerulean sea beckoned invitingly with a warm breeze blowing, making us only too eager to while away our days lounging by the poolside or tanning on the beach. But Cebu City was calling our name, eagerly waiting to be explored.

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Pretty soon, we even forgot our fears and found enough time to enjoy the scenery— initially of lively villages, coconut groves, medium-sized factories and occasionally even a Korean restaurant in the middle of nowhere. Then we crossed the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge that separate Mactan Island from Cebu City and descended into the fascinating chaos of the second largest city in the Philippines.

CULTURAL AND ARTISTIC INCLINATIONS With lots of sunscreen and some trepidation, not to mention a big dose of courage, we hired two motorbikes to take us around Cebu as we were told that these were the best modes of transport across the jampacked city. Fingers crossed, we jumped on the backs of our drivers and held on for dear life as they weaved us in and out of traffic with amazing dexterity.

DISCOVERING A SPANISH PAST It was bumper-to-bumper traffic but we eventually made it to Magellan’s Cross, our first stop and an attraction that should be on the list of any first-timer to Cebu. It’s one of the few tangible markers left by the Spaniards, although any Cebuano will tell you that Catholicism is the real legacy. The Santo Niño de Cebu, the oldest Christian

image in the Philippines, is enshrined at the Basilica de Sto. Niño at the heart of the city, from where the city’s lifeblood springs.

“I’d like to see more of Cebu’s Spanish past,” I said to Manuel, on whose motorbike I had ridden into the city.

He knew exactly where to take us, too.

We headed for the 19th century Casa Gorordo, the family home of a wealthy local family that was built in the 1850s.

It’s been well-preserved and turned into a museum. Nearby was an even older structure, still of Spanish heritage, the 18th century San Diego ancestral house, all made of wood.

Of course we also had to see the historic Fort San Pedro, built by the first Spanish governor general in the port area of Cebu.

Originally made of wood in the 16th century and then rebuilt in stone in 1738, it’s a massive triangular fortress with 14 cannons still in place.

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TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE CORNERSTONES OF CEBU Historical landmarks and attractions to see in the city MAGELLAN’S CROSS

CASA GORORDO

Travel back in time inside Fort San Pedro, the oldest and smallest Spanish base in the Philippines built in 1738. This former military defense base is now a beautiful park.

(A. Pigafetta St., Cebu City)

An ancestral house turned museum, Casa Gorordo has a variety of old furniture, relics, paintings, and other historical artifacts.

This former home of Juan Gorordo, the first Filipino Bishop of Cebu, is located on Lopez Jaena Street.

Learn about significant historical events in Cebu and get to know prominent Cebuanos in one majestic shrine created by local artist Eduardo Castrillo at Plaza Pari-an.

(Colon St., Cebu City)

MUSEO SUGBO

BASILICA DEL SANTO NIÑO This oldest Roman Catholic Church in the country houses the statue of the Santo Niño, gift of Ferdinand Magellan to Queen Juana of Cebu and one of the oldest religious relics in the Philippines. www.basilicasantonino.org.ph

Also known as the Cebu Provincial Museum, this gallery is home to artifacts, memorabilia, letters and other items dating back to preSpanish period until American colonization.

(M. J. Cuenco Ave., Cebu City)

YAP-SAN DIEGO ANCESTRAL HOUSE This ancestral house owned by an affluent family during the Spanish era offers an insight on the upper class lifestyle during the 17th century and showcases well-preserved items such as wooden furniture and family portraits.

(Mabini St., Parian)

COLON STREET Historical markers and a sundial located in the middle of the road called the Colon obelisk are some of the notable sights to look for along Colon Street, the oldest street in the country.

The street was named after Christopher Columbus’ Spanish name, Cristobal Colon.

CEBU METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL Known as the ecclesiastical seat of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Cebu, the cathedral is designed in the Baroque-Rococo style and contains the seal of the Spanish Royal Coat of Arms at its entrance.

(P. Burgos St., Cebu City)

Heritage of Cebu Mon ument Photo Courtesy of DOT Region 7

TEXT BY PAULEEN GENERAL.

A 20-meter tall bronze monument of Lapu-Lapu on Punta Engaño was built in honor of his victory against the Spanish colonizers and commemorates the Battle of Mactan where he defeated Ferdinand Magellan.

FORT SAN PEDRO

CEBU HERITAGE MONUMENT

See the legendary cross planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan to mark the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines along Magallanes Street.

The beautiful painting on the ceiling of this historical landmark illustrates the city’s colonial past.

LAPU-LAPU SHRINE

CEBU

Magellan’s Cross Photo by Jaime Singaldor

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SHOWCASING CEBU’S WORLD-CLASS DESIGN I was fascinated with Cebu’s Spanish heritage but Manuel persuaded me to explore another angle.

“Don’t get stuck in the past,” he teased me, “Cebu is so hip now for food, fashion and all kinds of products. This is another side to our city that you need to see.”

We were up for anything, so we got back on the motorbikes and headed for Crossroads Mall in Banilad which has the kind of restaurants that have been attracting crowds of serious local foodies. Apparently, the stylish have taken note of this trendy destination, as well, because HoliCOW, a name currently topping everyone’s blackbook, is also located here.

This showroom and gallery featuring furniture, home décor, accessories and one-of-a-kind pieces from Visayan designers and artists is Ground Zero now for anyone looking for creative design in the region.

CEBU’S THOUGHTFULLY CURATED CRAFTS The Holistic Coalition of the Willing or HoliCOW is an initiative of furniture designers and manufacturers to elevate Filipino design, aesthetics, and production practices to an international standard that is sustainable and all-inclusive.

Moreover, HoliCOW is trying to standardize the use of regionally sourced materials that were culled via ethical and environmentally sound practices. They’re encouraging Filipino designers to collaborate with local communities in creating handcrafted furniture, home and fashion pieces that are expressive of Filipino individuality. The HoliCOW gallery/showroom is a must-visit when in Cebu, with reasonably priced pieces that you can proudly bring home as a cherished travel memento.

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Cebu by the Tastebuds Cebu Lechon

Lechon is definitely the star of any Filipino feast and Cebu’s version of lechon is more flavorful than its counterparts elsewhere in the country.

The secret is in the stuffing made of lemongrass, garlic, and spices. The pig is then slow-roasted on a rotating spit over hot coals until the skin turns golden brown and crackling.

Puso Lechons Roasting Photo Courtesy of Zubuchon

Cebu lechon is best paired with pusô or hanging rice, which is cooked rice encased in woven coconut leaves.

It’s the local version of “fast food” as it is readily available on every street corner.

Kinilaw

Kinilaw (which means “to eat raw”) is a refreshingly simple dish with a spicy kick. It is made of raw fish or seafood “cooked” in vinegar, onions, ginger, garlic, and chili.

Balbacua

Balbacua, an ox skin and tail stew, takes an average of seven hours to cook. But this dish is worth the wait when cooked properly, with its sinfully thick and mouthwatering sauce and tender meat.

Utan Bisaya

Utan Bisaya is a simple yet healthy Cebuano soup made up of fresh vegetables, with the addition of meat or fish to enrich this light soup’s flavor.

Bam-i

ADDITIONALTEXT BY PAULEEN GENERAL.

A TOAST TO CEBUANO GASTRONOMY Spanish culinary influences complement the cooking heritage of the Visayas, creating a confluence of flavors that have made Cebu a destination for adventurous foodies and gastronomes. Anthony Bourdain found Cebu’s roasted suckling pig (lechon) worthy of prime TV airtime, and I’m sure so would we. So we headed to Zubuchon, one of the local favorites,

for a lechon dinner. Zubuchon is a play on “Zubu,” the old name of Cebu based on Spanish maps, and “lechon,” the Tagalog word for roasted suckling pig.

“What makes Zubuchon so good?” I asked the restaurant manager, as we ate our lechon with relish. He replied, “We use our own lemongrass, peppers and spices for flavoring. And we feed the pigs organic food and fresh vegetables.”

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This Cebuano noodle dish uses two noodles: vermicelli and flour noodles. Laden with a colorful mix of vegetables, meat, and seafood, this is a filling savory dish for a snack or a main meal.

Ngohiong

Pronounced as “ngo-yong,” these crispy fried rolls get its name and distinctive taste from the Chinese fivespice powder also known as ngohiong powder.

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Photo by Michael Jo

OF HEARTH AND HOME Cebuanos are generally pretty chill and easy-going people. They’re friendly, warm, and laid-back—the perfect company when feasting on a delectable spread. That much we learned, sharing a table with some locals at Zubuchon.

Perhaps it’s the sultry Southern sun set against a tropical paradise and a cosmopolitan city that makes Cebuanos engaging. Or it could be the irresistible Cebuano dishes served in a convivial fashion that is best enjoyed with friends and loved ones. Maybe it’s the captivating appeal of the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans that has captured the world of design and aesthetics glued to Cebu.

The Queen City of the South enjoys a rich heritage and looks towards a brighter future. It is the country’s pride not only for its abundant natural resources but also for its well of creative masterminds and craftsmen. It has attracted tourists and travelers from all corners of the world, and it will continue to stay hot on the radar for many years to come. n

LOCALS IN THE LIMELIGHT Notable Cebuanos who’ve made a name in international media

Neil Felipp is a young and promising accessory designer known for chic, intricate and whimsical metallic pieces.

His works have been showcased in Manila and New York City through Adorn USA. www.neilfelipp.wordpress.com Part of a prominent local clan, Monique Lhuillier has dressed Hollywood A-listers such as Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Lopez, and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Her alluring and chic collection includes bridal wear, fine jewelry, handbags, shoes, accessories and home fragrances. www.moniquelhuillier.com

Furniture designer and creative director of Hive, a home décor collective, Kenneth Cobonpue has received five Good Design Awards from Japan and a French Coup de Coeur Award. His modern and innovative pieces made of natural fibers have found their way into the homes of celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. www.kennethcobonpue.com Vito Selma finished his Masters in Industrial Design at the Scuola Politecnica di Design in Milan, Italy.

His iconic wood furniture pieces have brought him international success. www.vitoselma.com

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URBAN LIVING IN CEBU 32 SANSON BY ROCKWELL Experience the Rockwell lifestyle in this 3.2-hectare residential space surrounded by lush greenery. A short stroll takes you to stylish restaurants and shops nearby. www.facebook.com/32SansonbyRockwell

MEGAWORLD’S MACTAN NEWTOWN This beautiful and vast area embraces city living and the relaxing beach life in one.

Experience sophisticated urban living on one side and get sun-kissed skin by the beach on the other. themactannewtown.com.ph

MARCO POLO RESIDENCES Boasting over 20 indoor and 18 outdoor amenities, Marco Polo Residences spells elegance, style, and functionality and is

situated near restaurants, bars and pubs for easier access. Its unique amenities include a Golf Simulation and Wii Room, Tiara Room, Wine Cellar and Covered Squash Court. www.marcopoloresidences.com.ph

CROWN REGENCY HOTEL AND TOWERS Have an exhilarating time at the Sky Experience and Sky Extreme Adventure.

There is also an indoor shooting range via the Ultima Sharp Shooters Club, the first and only in the country. www.crownregencyhotelandtowers.com

CEBU BUSINESS PARK This 50-hectare Ayala property with highrise apartments and corporate centers takes

pride in its luxurious leisure centers. Visit The Terraces at Ayala Center Cebu for fine dining selections. www.cebubusinesspark.com

CALYX CENTRE This strategically located property near the Cebu I.T. Park, hailed as the “first green hybrid condominium” in Cebu, offers a tranquil environment amidst the fast-paced lifestyle of the city. innoland.com.ph

CEBU I.T. PARK This 27-hectare economic zone is the entryway for both business and pleasure.

Several leisure spots in the area such as The Walk and Garden Bloc are surrounded by verdant landscapes. www.cebuitpark.com

TOKENS FROM CEBU SNACKS Cebu is famous for its dried mangoes as well as for these delicacies: Otap: flaky, sugary biscuits Rosquillos: round, flower-like cookies Torta: tasty, spongy, firm cakes

ADDITIONALTEXT BY PAULEEN GENERAL.

LECHON Buy a freshly cooked or frozen kilo or more of the famous Cebu lechon and delight in its mouthwatering golden crunchy skin and juicy and flavorful meat.

GUITARS Bring home a classic guitar or a colorful ukulele from Lapu-Lapu City where local craftsmen have been making world-class quality yet affordable guitars for generations.

HANDICRAFTS Woven baskets, wooden ornaments, and other home décor made from bamboo vines and other naturally-sourced materials, designed by local artisans.

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UNDER THE BLUEST SKIES CRIMSON RESORT & SPA MACTAN exudes a luxurious tropical paradise on Cebu’s Mactan Island

Villas become a home away from home, each with its personal plunge pool and lounge area to luxuriate in private. The Ocean front villas with an infinity pool that seamlessly flows into the sea are an indulgent treat, with its breathtaking view to wake up to and unwind at with a cocktail at sunset. Each room and villa’s airy, Balinese inspired design with Cebuano touches creates a refreshing ambience that’s invigorating for a tired soul.

CRIMSON RESORT AND SPA MACTAN, a sprawling resort on the coast of Mactan Island, is an idyllic summer getaway that brings together luxury resort living with the warmth of home. Rooms and villas are nestled within a verdant garden where sunlight softly streams through greenery to softly nudge you awake every morning. Deluxe Garden rooms have the modern comforts of a plush city hotel, yet with a tranquility only found in a secret retreat.

GET ACTIVE As much as one would like to linger in the plush comforts of the room, the resort has a number of activities lined up for guests.

Every morning, a sheet listing the daily activities in the resort is left by the door, giving guests the opportunity to explore the resort grounds and try out its amenities.

Bask in the warmth of the tropical sun right by the infinity pools that are too

inviting to ignore or join in on some of the resort’s activities such as water aerobics, zumba or yoga. Or take advantage of the beach and go kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing or water skiing. Better yet, learn to sail on a Hobie cat!

Children are up for an exciting time with a variety of activities at the Crimzone Active Kids Center. Young guests can join in a scavenger or treasure hunt, art workshops, or dance contests.

INDULGENTLY LUXURIOUS Nothing spells “vacation” than a complete pampering package at Crimson Resort’s AUM Spa. Indulge in a relaxing massage or an invigorating full body scrub in any of the spa’s 14 treatment rooms that exude utmost tranquility. Therapeutic body treatments—with AUM Spa’s organic massage oils—improve physical health and mental well-being.

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PHOTOS BY BRYAN AREVALO.

L

ess than an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Cebu City is Mactan Island, Cebu’s premier destination for a relaxing tropical holiday. The island is the ideal location for a splendid vacation, as it’s only a few minutes from Mactan International Airport and only half an hour away from Cebu City. This proximity allows business travelers and those on vacation to mix work and play with ease.

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Al fresco couple rooms are beautifully designed with an outdoor shower and tub, creating a lovely, romantic atmosphere that is energizing and nourishing for men and women. At the yoga pavilion, morning sessions with a yogi promote the perfect balance between mind and body.

A GASTRONOMIC FEAST

BY THE BEACH Crimson Resort has three dining outlets that whet the appetite with Asian and Continental dishes created by masterful chefs who fuse local ingredients with top-notch culinary expertise.

Saffron Café’s all-day dining buffet offers a sumptuous array of local and international dishes that change daily and caters to guests’ every taste preference.

For excellent seafood in a fine dining setting, Tempo has a superb array of menu items, best paired with a carefully curated wine list. Or enjoy a round of drinks while playing billiards or watching the game at Score Sports Bar. Azure Beach Club’s modern Asian menu fuses together the best of traditional favorites while incorporating innovative touches from modern culinary methods.

Chef Godfrey Laforteza’s masterful creations are a symphony on a plate, colorful artworks that are a harmonious burst of flavor. Make the most of the club’s location by securing premium seats that face the ocean and watch the gorgeous sunset with a drink in your hand.

Now these are the best ways to spend a tropical holiday. n For more details, visit www.crimsonhotel.com; email info.mactan@crimsonhotel.com; or call either the Cebu trunkline +63 32 4019999 or the Manila sales office +63 2 7280005.

Island Life

CRIMSON BORACAY Boracay will soon welcome a precious addition to the island’s selection of hotels and resort. CRIMSON BORACAY opens its doors to guests who are used to the modern comforts of city hotel, but with the laidback vibe of the beach. Crimson’s understated elegance amidst contemporary design, with touches of traditional Filipino décor made of natural materials like stone and wood, is a perfect complement to Boracay’s world renowned beaches.

The resort will have 192 guestrooms, private villas with personal plunge pools, and a Presidential Villa, as well as several dining outlets that are sure to whet anyone’s appetite.

Two of Crimson Resort’s signature restaurants, Saffron Café and Azure Beach Club, are opening at Crimson Boracay, along with The Naked Rock Bar, Pool Bar, and Mosaic Specialty Restaurant.

Swimming pools, outdoor activity areas, recreational spaces, ballroom, events pavilion, and spa complete Crimson Boracay which slated to open in early 2017.

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EXPERIENCING

Luxurious Comfort QUEST HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER ensures an unforgettable stay in Cebu

Business and leisure travelers can easily blend together work and play in Quest Hotel. Rooms and suites are designed to highlight local art and design, while providing comfortable accommodations that are inviting after a long, tiring day in

the city. A dip in the pool or a drink by the pool bar is a fine way to wind-down on a sweltering summer’s day.

For a taste of local flavors, Pusô Bistro & Bar has an excellent dining selection in its all-day buffet that highlights Cebuano specialties. Sundays at Quest Hotel are especially remarkable for families, as children are treated to fun activities like pizza making. If you’re hankering for some shopping, Ayala Malls Cebu is just a twominute walk from the hotel.

But what makes Quest Hotel extra special is the staff ’s attentiveness and courtesy.

Each guest is greeted with a smile the

moment they enter the door. Every need is addressed by attentive staff—from making sure you’re checked in quickly to getting your luggage safely in the room, to making sure your coffee is made just exactly the way you want it. Each staff has a genuine smile for every guest, and it is this natural friendliness towards guests that makes one’s stay at Quest Hotel a truly memorable one. n For more details, visit cebu.questhotels.com; email cebuinfo@quest-hotels.com; or call either the Cebu trunkline +63 32 4025999 or the Manila sales office +63 2 7280005.

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PHOTOS BY BRYAN AREVALO.

I

n a bustling metropolis like Cebu City, finding an excellent hotel that exudes warm hospitality is a precious gem that must be treasured and remembered. QUEST HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER, located along Archbishop Reyes Avenue, has the perfect balance of functionality amidst an artistically inspiring environment, where guests are treated to Cebuano congeniality.

TRAVELIFE MAGAZINE Café Sarree’s Chorizo Rice

CEBU

A MERGING OF PAST AND PRESENT

District on 53rd’s Falafel

Guiseppe’s Pasta Maccheroni Marinara

THE CEBU GUIDE TO A

Our favorites: Huevos Turcos, Patatas Bravas, Lengua no9restaurant.com

GASTRONOMIC FOODIE TRIP

AN ALL-DAY BRUNCH AFFAIR

If the Cebu lechon is any indication of the Cebuanos’ penchant for good food, then a food trip around the city is a must do on your itinerary. With the surge of all-day breakfast places, third wave coffee shops, and restaurants with multicultural specialties spreading all over the country, Cebu adds its own valuable contributions to the local food industry.

Here are some of our discoveries:

on its menu–all inspired by memories of food from travels across the globe. The restaurant’s cafeteria-style set-up gives off an easy-going atmosphere that makes it perfect for a casual night out with friends or a quick takeaway snack. Servings are hearty, encouraging groups to pick several dishes to share, staying true to its communal atmosphere.

Our favorites: Falafel, Grilled Lamb Leg, Raw Atlantic Salmon on Lava Hot Stone, Beef & Chicken Satay

It’s been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and at Yolk Coffee & Breakfast they’ve made it clear how great food can set one’s mood for the day. Each nook and cranny of this quaint café on Mabolo Street is Instagram-worthy and peppered with inspirational quotes that make you simply love life. How can you not, when you’re served a cup of thoughtfully crafted coffee—from sourcing the beans to careful brewing to highlight its flavors—as well as hearty dishes like eggs ben topped with fork-tender, savory pulled pork or a Koreaninspired Spam rice.

Our favorites: Eggs Benny–Pumba, Spanish Chorizo and Eggs in a Pan, and Kimchi Spam Rice

district53.com

FLAVORS OF SICILY

PHOTOS BY BRYAN AREVALO. TEXT BY CEIA YLAGAN.

On E. Benedicto Street, a quiet residential road, a 50-year-old ancestral home is finding new life within its walls. Brothers Iñaki and Pepin Martinez have transformed the family home into No. 9, a restaurant that serves classic Spanish-Latin dishes that they grew up with, but created using a fusion of Old World cooking methods like charcuterie, fermentation and smoking with modern culinary techniques such as sous vides, whipping siphons, and dehydrators. Its interiors also reflect the brothers’ philosophy of molding together old and new: original window panels and doors are upcycled into tables and wall décor, alongside modern lighting systems.

Guiseppe Genaco opened his restaurant over 15 years ago, with the desire to serve authentic Italian food that he grew up with in Sicily. Guiseppe’s in Banilad continues to serve hand-tossed, wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and classic Italian dishes such as grilled seafood and vegetables, so simply prepared to highlight its natural flavors.

Nowadays, Guiseppe’s nephew Luca is continuing the family legacy of creating good food in generous portions that many Cebuano families love to share and keep coming back to.

THE COMFORTS OF HOMESTYLE COOKING Sarree Pimentel, chef and owner of Café Sarree, grew up in a family who loved to eat – and cook – so it was only natural that this Cebuana stunner would gravitate towards a career in food service. Seeing how the food she cooked made people happy, she opened the café to share with others, “food that reminds you of home, but with a twist.”

Staying true to this credo, Café Sarree’s menu reads like a page off her well-traveled family’s recipe book: “My Mother’s Dips,” “Pops Bacalao,” and more. Every dish created is tied to a family memory, prepared with the warmth of home.

Our favorites: Insalata di Salmone, Pasta Maccheroni Marinara, Pizza Vegetariana, Mixed Grilled Seafood Paseo Saturnino, Ma. Luisa Rd., Banilad

THE WORLD ON YOUR PLATE Cebu I.T. Park’s District on 53rd has a cool and hip vibe that reflects the eclectic 53 items

yolkcafeph.com No.9’s Patatas Bravas

Our favorites: Liver Pate with Cranberry Jam, Lamb Adobo, Loaded French Toast with Ham and Cheese, Chorizo Rice Block 9, Bldg. A. Escario Central, N. Escario St.

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Yolk’s Eggs Benny-Pumba

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SIDETRIPS

Cebu’s charms go far beyond the city limits

Photo by Michael Jo

Mactan Island is an underwater paradise for divers. Other activities include snorkelling, wildlife tours, and jet skiing. The scenic Marcelo Fernan Bridge and Mactan-Mandaue Bridge connect this island to Cebu proper, while the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is situated in Lapu-Lapu City.

Don’t Miss: Diving in Kontiki Reef or at the Tambuli Plane Wreck, two of Mactan Island’s best diving spots.

Distance from the city: Less than an hour’s drive

MOALBOAL ISLAND Like most islands near Cebu, Moalboal (pronounced “mo-ahl, bo-ahl”) is blessed with white sand beaches and glistening waters.

Curious explorers can head down the Cave Busay, a 650-foot tunnel with a small pool at its opening.

The island is also home to Archery Asia (www.archery-asia.com), the only professional archery business in the Philippines that features 3D Archery Parcous.

Don’t Miss: Learning to shoot a bow and arrow at Archery Asia.

Distance from the city: Approximately a 2 hour drive

BADIAN ISLAND Badian is famous for the Kawasan Falls (kawasanfalls.net) which gushes icy cool waters. This family-friendly site has several local resorts with cottage and raft rentals for

day trips. Those seeking more luxury can head for the Badian Island Wellness Resort (www. badianhotel.com). It has a spa village, a shell beach bar, dolphin watching services, and beautiful night scenery from the beach.

Don’t Miss: Paddling a raft and dipping in the cool waters of Kawasan Falls.

Distance from the city: Approximately a 3 hour drive

MALAPASCUA ISLAND Malapascua Island may be a small, twokilometer island, but it promises many adventures in a serene environment with abundant marine life. Its beaches and vibrant coral reefs can be easily toured within a day.

Don’t Miss: Diving at Monad Shoal to see thresher sharks.

Distance from the city: Approximately a 5 hour drive

OSLOB Oslob is home to the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Tumalog Falls, and Sumilon Island. White sand beaches frame the 24-hectare Sumilon Island while the fresh waters of Tumalog Falls delight exhausted travelers. Tuki or butanding (whale shark) can often be seen around this island.

Don’t Miss: Whale shark watching or scuba diving at Brgy. Tan-awan, Oslob.

Distance from the city: Approximately a 3 hour drive

CAMOTES ISLANDS Also known as “The Lost Horizon in the South” because of its untouched natural beauty, Camotes Islands is a collection of four isles: Pajican, Ponson, Poro, and Tulang. This makes it a perfect destination for islandhopping. Swim in the pristine waters of Busay Falls in Poro Island or look at the rock formations inside the Holy Crystal Cave.

BANTAYAN The Bantayan island group is composed of islets and is divided into three towns: Santa Fe, Madridejos, and Bantayan. Saints Peter and Paul Church is found in Bantayan proper, while Madridejos has the historic Kota Park.

After touring these sites, head over to Santa Fe for beautiful white sand beaches.

Don’t Miss: Exploring the Timobo and Bukilat caves.

Distance from the city: Approximately a 9 hour drive

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Don’t Miss: Swimming around Virgin Island and on Paradise Beach or Maricaban Beach.

Distance from the city: Approximately a 4.5 hour drive

TEXT BY PAULEEN GENERAL.

MACTAN ISLAND

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PIT SEÑOR!

Sardine Run (Moalboal, Cebu) Photo by Ferdinand Edralin

Cebu Island in Central Visayas is full of culture and history. It is the oldest city in the country, historically known as the place where the Spaniards first touched Philippine soil in 1521. This monumental event marked the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines and changed the course of pre-colonial Philippine history.

The Sinulog Festival, held on the third Sunday of January each year, is Cebu’s way of paying homage to the Santo Niño through a colorful sea of extravagant outfits and dance rituals. This festival was first organized in 1980 and it has since evolved into what is probably the biggest street party in the Philippines with street dancing competitions, a DJ mixing competition and the Sinulog sa Kabataan youth talent contest.

Cebu has over two million inhabitants. It’s a prosperous major urban area in the Visayas region and a top destination for travelers.

HOW TO GET THERE

Cebu’s tropical climate is best enjoyed during the summer season from March to May. Those wishing to see or participate in the annual Sinulog Festival should plan their visit around the third week of January.

Air Asia offers regular flights from Manila to Cebu while major international carriers like Cathay Pacific offer direct flights from major Asian cities. Mactan International Airport, the second busiest airport in the Philippines, welcomes travelers from various international carriers from many destinations around the world.

ILLUSTRATION BY KORINA BAÑEZ.

WHEN TO GO

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Sinulog 2014 Photo Courtsey of DOT Region 7