Cebu Airport Shopping: What To Buy And Take Home

what to buy in cebu airport

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, and it has been recognised as one of the Top 10 Most On-Time Airports in Southeast Asia. The airport boasts top-notch amenities, including a premium lounge, a dedicated breastfeeding area, duty-free shopping, and restaurants and cafes. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the perfect gateway to Central Visayas and parts of Negros Oriental, with its neighbouring beaches, islands, diving spots, and nature attractions. This article will explore what to buy at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

Characteristics Values
Location Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island
Recognition Best airport in the world at the World Architecture Festival in 2019
Amenities WiFi, charging stations, grab-and-go food, premium lounge, shower, smoking area, breastfeeding area, duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, prayer rooms, medical clinic, pharmacy
Nearby Destinations Central Visayas, Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Dumaguete City
Souvenirs Dried mangoes, otap biscuits, danggit (dried fish), local crafts, guitars, local jewelry, woven baskets, chicharon, keychains

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Local delicacies like dried mangoes, danggit, and otap biscuits

Cebu is known for its local delicacies, including dried mangoes, danggit, and otap biscuits. These treats are a must-try when visiting the island and also make great gifts for loved ones back home.

Dried mangoes are a popular product of Cebu, where mangoes are abundant. They are sweet and chewy thin slices of mango preserves, often topped with sugar. Many brands sell mango candies and mango puree, which can be purchased directly from processors' display centres, grocery stores, and souvenir shops. It is advised to buy branded dried mangoes to avoid fake products.

Danggit is another famous delicacy from Cebu, known for its variety of dried seafood. It is best to purchase this product from a reputable source and have it vacuum-packed to ensure freshness. The price of danggit can vary, with one kilo costing between Php 400 to 630, depending on quality.

Otap biscuits, also known as Utap, are flaky, buttery cookies that originated in Cebu, the oldest city in the Philippines. These thin, crispy, oblong-shaped pastries are a perfect companion to a cup of coffee or tea. Otap is a popular choice for pasalubong, as it stays crispy for a long time.

When shopping for these local delicacies, it is recommended to negotiate prices and be cautious of inaccurate weighing practices. It is also suggested to have your purchases packed in seal-tight plastic bags, especially when travelling, to avoid any strong smells affecting your other items or luggage.

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Handmade crafts, including Cebuano guitars and intricately woven baskets

Cebu is known for its vibrant culture and traditional crafts, including handmade guitars, intricately woven baskets, and local jewellery. These items are popular souvenirs for visitors to the city, along with local food products such as dried mangoes, dried fish, and biscuits.

Cebuano guitars are highly sought after by both local and international clients due to their exquisite craftsmanship and the melodious tunes they produce. The guitars are handmade using a variety of soft and hard woods, such as jackfruit, narra, and blackwood ebony, and can be customised with intricate decorations like inlaid shell crafts. Other string instruments manufactured in Cebu include ukuleles, banjos, and mandolins. For example, Mahon Guitars on Facebook offers custom-built guitars handcrafted by a small team of luthiers who have honed their craft over generations.

Intricately woven baskets are another renowned handmade craft from Cebu. Skilled artisans use indigenous materials such as rattan and bamboo to create intricate patterns and designs. These baskets are not just functional items but works of art that showcase the beauty of traditional Filipino weaving techniques. One notable basket weaver is Salomé Dugan, whose baskets are sought after by collectors for their intricate designs and impeccable craftsmanship.

In addition to guitars and baskets, Cebu is also known for its local jewellery. These handcrafted trinkets can be found in souvenir shops throughout the city, along with other unique gifts and treasures that embody the rich cultural heritage of Cebu. While buying souvenirs at the airport is convenient, prices tend to be higher, so it is recommended to shop at local markets or supermarkets for a more authentic experience and better deals.

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Local souvenirs like keychains, t-shirts, and figurines

Cebu is a vibrant island in the Philippines known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and unique culture. The island's souvenir shops are treasure troves of "Pasalubong", which are gifts meant to be shared with loved ones back home.

If you're looking for local souvenirs like keychains, t-shirts, and figurines, Cebu has plenty to offer. Here are some ideas to consider:

Keychains: Keychains are a popular choice for travellers looking for lightweight and affordable souvenirs. In Cebu, you can find keychains made from local materials such as shells or wood. These keychains often feature intricate designs and can be purchased from local markets or souvenir shops.

T-shirts: T-shirts are a great way to showcase your love for Cebu long after your trip. Look for t-shirts with unique designs or phrases that capture the essence of the island. You can find these at shops like Island Souvenirs, which offers a range of island-themed t-shirts and other souvenirs.

Figurines: If you're looking for something more artistic or decorative, Cebu offers a variety of handcrafted figurines. These figurines can be made from a range of materials, including wood, shells, or local ceramics. They often depict local scenes, folklore, or iconic landmarks, making them a perfect reminder of your trip.

In addition to these, Cebu is also known for its handmade crafts, including intricately woven baskets, local jewellery, and handcrafted accessories. You can find these items at local markets, such as the Taboan Public Market or Carbon Market, or in malls like SM City Cebu and Ayala Center Cebu.

When shopping for souvenirs in Cebu, it's important to be mindful of travel regulations and cultural customs. While haggling is common and expected in local markets, always handle religious items with care and respect. Additionally, certain food items, meat products, and liquids may face restrictions, so be sure to check the customs regulations of your destination.

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Premium shopping from brands like Dior, Lancome, and Lacoste

Cebu Airport offers a range of premium shopping options for travellers seeking luxury brands. The airport's duty-free shop features renowned brands such as Dior, Lancome, and Lacoste, among others.

Dior, the iconic French luxury brand, showcases its exquisite cosmetics line at the airport. From sleek lipsticks to luxurious skincare, Dior's products are known for their elegance and quality. Travellers can enhance their beauty routines or find the perfect gift for loved ones who appreciate the finer things in life.

Lancome, another prestigious brand, presents its own range of cosmetics and skincare products. Known for their scientific approach to beauty, Lancome offers travellers the opportunity to discover innovative and effective formulas that cater to various skin types and concerns.

Lacoste, the renowned French lifestyle brand, brings its unique blend of sports and fashion to Cebu Airport. Travellers can browse through their collection of stylish apparel, footwear, and accessories, characterised by the brand's iconic crocodile logo. Lacoste's offerings provide travellers with the opportunity to elevate their travel wardrobe or find comfortable yet fashionable pieces for their journey.

Additionally, travellers seeking unique souvenirs or gifts can explore the Airport Pasalubong Center. This one-stop shop offers a carefully curated selection of local delicacies, souvenirs, and beauty products. Nomad, a lifestyle concept store based in Cebu City, is another excellent option for travellers. Nomad showcases a range of local products, including delicacies, souvenirs, and curated beauty items, providing travellers with a branded quality experience and a convenient shopping environment.

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Basic amenities like Wi-Fi, charging stations, and grab-and-go food

Basic amenities are an important part of any airport experience, and Cebu Airport has a range of facilities to ensure your time there is comfortable and convenient.

Wi-Fi is a necessity for many travellers, and the airport provides free and fast internet access throughout the terminal. This allows you to stay connected, catch up on work, or simply browse the web while waiting for your flight.

For those looking to charge their electronic devices, there are charging stations located conveniently throughout the airport. These stations are equipped with power outlets and USB ports, ensuring you can keep your devices powered up before boarding your flight. It's important to note that power bank usage and charging may be restricted on flights, so taking advantage of these stations beforehand is advisable.

When it comes to food, Cebu Airport offers a variety of grab-and-go options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. You can choose from local specialties, international favourites, and healthy alternatives to enjoy on the go or during your flight. Vending machines are also available for quick snacks and beverages.

The airport's amenities ensure that travellers have a seamless experience, providing the essentials needed for a comfortable journey. Whether it's staying connected, keeping devices charged, or grabbing a quick bite, Cebu Airport has you covered.

Frequently asked questions

Cebu Airport's duty-free shops offer a range of souvenirs, including local delicacies, local crafts, beauty products, fashion and accessories, cosmetics, and liquor, tobacco, and confectionery.

Popular food souvenirs from Cebu include dried mangoes, otap, banana chips, masareal, chicharon, and lechon.

While buying souvenirs at the airport is convenient, it can be more expensive than purchasing them elsewhere. Local markets, supermarkets, and factory outlets often offer lower prices for the same items.

Yes, it's important to be mindful of travel regulations and cultural customs. While haggling is common in Cebu's markets, it's essential to handle religious items with care and respect.

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