Ruth Haines
Cebu Airport, also known as Mactan International Airport, is a great place to try Filipino snacks, such as hot native chocolate, puto (sticky rice) and sweet mango at the Tablea Chocolate Café. There are also several shops selling Cebu souvenirs, including Cebu guitars and I Love Cebu shirts. If you're looking for activities outside the airport, you can book a hotel in Lapu-Lapu City, where there are lots of activities, or try whale shark watching, canyoning, or city tours.
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What You'll Learn
Try local Filipino snacks and drinks
Filipino cuisine is known for its hearty, comforting dishes, and Cebu is a great place to try some of these. The Cardaba banana, or Saba banana, is a staple in Filipino cooking, and it's used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Try "banana cue", where the banana is deep-fried and caramelised on skewers, or "turon", a sweet banana spring roll wrapped in thin pastry and fried. You can find these treats at local markets, street food stalls, and traditional eateries. The Carbon Market is a great place to start, with vendors selling fresh and cooked Cardaba bananas in various forms.
Another popular snack is "ginanggang", a grilled banana brushed with margarine and sugar. Cardaba bananas are also used in savoury dishes like "nilagang saging" (boiled banana), which is often served alongside meats and stews. For a traditional Cebuano dish, try "dinuldog", which combines coconut milk with mashed taro, and is often enjoyed as a side dish or dessert. You can find this at local eateries in the countryside, where traditional cooking methods are preserved.
If you're looking for a drink to try, "tuba" is a traditional Filipino beverage made from coconut wine. You can find it in local markets and from vendors in rural areas, or for a more curated experience, visit the local tuba houses or specialised stores.
For a more substantial meal, there are plenty of restaurants serving Filipino cuisine in Cebu. STK ta bai, Tamp Cafe & Co, and Tops of Cebu Restaurant are all popular choices. If you're looking for something quick and easy, try the Food Court of Central Bloc, where you can find Filipino restaurants serving vegetables and salads, or head to Ayala Mall for some barbecue.
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Shop for Cebu souvenirs
If you're looking for Cebu souvenirs, you're in luck! The city has a wide variety of shops offering unique and memorable items that showcase the local culture and talent. Here are some recommendations to make your souvenir shopping experience enjoyable and fruitful:
Go Lokal: This store is all about celebrating Philippines traditions with a twist. Go Lokal offers a range of carefully curated items, from beautifully designed apparel that reflects local styles to high-quality home and food supplies. It's a great place to find gifts that are both exotic and authentic.
Shamrock Pasalubong Center: Located in Fuente Osmeña Circle, Cebu, Shamrock is a foodie's paradise. It offers a wide range of delicious local delicacies, including otap, dried mangoes, rosquillos, and fruit chips. If you want to bring a taste of Cebu home, this is the place to go. Their products are fresh and packaged to perfection for gift-giving.
Craft Story: For those seeking unique and affordable local crafts, Craft Story is a must-visit. This aesthetically pleasing shop showcases the works of local artists, offering a wide range of distinctive items that reflect Cebu's artistic side.
Bahandi Souvenir and Gifts: Immerse yourself in Filipino culture at Bahandi. This shop, reminiscent of traditional nipa huts, offers a range of genuine Filipino keepsakes and souvenirs. It's the perfect place to find items that embody the country's spirit and heritage.
Wagas Ukulele: Music lovers, rejoice! Wagas Ukulele is known for its handcrafted ukuleles, which are a popular Cebu souvenir. Their instruments are of superior quality, with personalized designs that showcase the rich culture and craftsmanship of the Philippines.
Islands Souvenirs: This innovative shop offers a range of designs that celebrate the tropical beauty of the Philippines. They are known for their "I Heart" phenomenon, where customers can personalize shirts with their names. It's a fun way to express your love for Cebu and create a unique memento.
SM City Cebu: This transportation hub offers more than just travel conveniences. SM City Cebu is also a shopping destination, with stalls offering a variety of souvenirs. You can find handcrafted accessories like bracelets and necklaces, as well as island-themed hats and knitted bags.
Kultura Filipino: Located within SM City Cebu, Kultura Filipino is a renowned local souvenir shop. They showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of Filipinos through their fashion pieces and souvenirs. While their items may be pricier, the quality is exceptional, making it a popular choice for both locals and foreigners seeking unique pasalubongs.
With these options, you're sure to find souvenirs that capture the essence of Cebu and create lasting memories of your trip.
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Go whale shark watching
Whale shark watching is a popular activity in Cebu and can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whale sharks can be seen in Oslob, a quiet village in the south of Cebu, which is about a 4-hour journey from Cebu Airport. There is a 98% chance of swimming with the whale sharks on any day of the year. Whale sharks are the largest species of fish, growing up to 12 metres (40 feet) in length and weighing up to 20 tons, but they are known as the gentle giants of the sea and feed mostly on plankton, so they do not pose a threat to humans.
There are various tour companies offering whale shark watching experiences, such as Island Trek Tours, Wild n Wowed Cebu Tour, and Granada Beach Resort. Some companies offer snorkelling and scuba diving with the whale sharks, as well as other activities such as canyoneering, visiting Tumalog Falls, and exploring Sumilon Island. It is also possible to see the whale sharks being fed; this usually happens at 7 am.
If you are travelling from Cebu Airport, you can take a bus from the Cebu South Bus Terminal, which is a 30-minute journey from the airport. The first trips are usually at 3 am, and it is better to do whale shark watching early in the morning. The bus journey from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Oslob takes about 3.5-4 hours.
Whale shark watching tours usually offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, which may be a good option if you are staying in a hotel in Lapu-Lapu City, such as JPark or Solea. These resorts are also a good option if you want to be near the CCLEX bridge, which provides faster access to the city and its tourist spots.
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Canyoning at Kawasan Falls
There are several ways to organise your trip to Kawasan Falls. You can book with a tour company in Badian/Alegria or Moalboal, or book online in advance. The classic tour includes transfers and is the number one most booked activity in Cebu, with 1000+ positive reviews. You can also book a combo tour that includes other popular activities in Cebu, such as whale shark watching in Oslob.
The best time for canyoneering is from December to early June, during the dry season. The zipline at Kawasan Falls costs 600 pesos. Some companies offer a full refund for cancellations made at least 72 hours in advance, but be sure to check the refund policy before booking.
Many people have shared positive experiences of their canyoneering trip to Kawasan Falls, praising the guides for their positive energy, helpfulness, and photography skills. The delicious meal at the end of the tour is also a highlight for many.
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Explore Lapu-Lapu City
Lapu-Lapu City is a great place to visit, with a wide range of attractions and activities to suit all tastes. The city is known for its delicious food, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. Here are some ideas to help you explore Lapu-Lapu City and make the most of your time there:
Visit the Lapu-Lapu City Hall: The city hall is a notable landmark and a great place to start your exploration. From here, you can easily access the downtown area, where you can browse museums, boutiques, and restaurants. Lapu-Lapu City offers a vibrant dining scene, from traditional Cebuano dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
Shop at Mactan Town Center: If you're looking for souvenirs, Mactan Town Center is the place to go. You can browse a variety of shops and stalls selling local crafts, including the famous Cebu guitars. The Gaisano Grand Mall Mactan is another popular shopping destination, offering a range of stores and entertainment options.
Enjoy Nature and Island-Hopping: For a break from the city, take a short boat ride to Caohagan Island, where you can interact with the local community, buy fresh seafood, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. If you're feeling adventurous, book a tour for whale shark watching or canyoneering, which often includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Indulge in Spa Treatments: Lapu-Lapu is known for its spas, so take some time to relax and rejuvenate with a traditional massage or treatment. The area is also family-friendly, with plenty of activities and tours to suit all ages.
Stay at Reputable Resorts: If you're looking for accommodation, Lapu-Lapu offers a range of options, from well-known resorts like JPark and Solea to more tranquil spots like Shangrila or The Reef. These resorts often provide easy access to the city and its tourist spots, such as the nearby CCLEX bridge.
With its blend of cultural, culinary, and natural attractions, Lapu-Lapu City offers a diverse and exciting experience for visitors. Whether you're exploring the city, relaxing at the resorts, or interacting with locals, you're sure to create memorable experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several activities you can do around Cebu Airport, including snorkelling with whale sharks, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, and city tours.
Some good accommodation options near the airport include well-known resorts in Lapu-Lapu City, such as JPark, Solea, Shangrila, and The Reef. These resorts offer convenient access to the city and various activities.
You can try famous Cebu lechon at Zubuchon, located in the pre-departure area of the airport. For a Filipino snack, head to Tablea Chocolate Café for hot native chocolate, puto (sticky rice), and sweet ripe mango.
Yes, there are several shops at Cebu Airport selling souvenirs such as Cebu guitars and puso keychains. The Fiesta store, located in the airport, offers "I Love Cebu" shirts, perfect for last-minute shopping.
