Often called the "Queen City of the South" and the Seat of Christianity in the Philippines, Cebu is the country's oldest city. Exploring Cebu City, one encounters a rich historic past. Cebuanos are extremely proud of their cultural and historic heritage, a legacy which has endured through the centuries from the time of the great explorer Ferdinand Magellan first planted the cross on Cebu's shore.
Time has been kind to Cebu. From Zubu, the fishing village and busy trading port in 1521 has evolved into a highly urbanized metropolitan center which now serves as focal point of growth and development in Southern Philippines. With its 6 cities; Cebu, Danao, Lapu-lapu, Mandaue, Toledo and Talisay; and its 47 smaller towns, Cebu has more than kept pace with the nation's progress.
Today, the island province leads in traditional and non-traditional exports and has the highest economic growth rate anywhere in the country. Likewise, recent indications pointed out that Cebu has become the country's most favorite tourist destination.In contrast to the bustling metropolis, the rest of Cebu's 167 islets and islands are line with idyllic white sandy beaches and pristine clear water.
Cebu has gained wide popularity for fantastic diving grounds evidenced by the proliferation of resorts which offer luxurious accommodations, excellent diving facilities and the services of competent dive masters and dive guides. Cebu's strategic location makes it ideal for those who wish to travel to the other islands and provinces. By plane, boat or bus, nowhere could be too far from Cebu.
Population/Language Cebu Province has a total population of more than 3 million. Cebuano is the native language. While Filipino is commonly understood and spoken, the English language is widely used in business transactions and education.
Climate
Generally Warm from 23° to 30° C. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year except for the dry summer months from March to May.
Philippine Time Philippine standard time is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Meantime.
Dress/What to Bring Bring shorts, hat, sunglasses, bathing suit, insect repellant, flashlight, sun block cream, tough shoes for walking rubber slippers for the beach. Light-colored and loose cotton clothing is best all year round. Casual clothing is accepted in most places. The Barong Tagalog is the acceptable formal wear for men. Shorts or sleeveless shirts should never be worn when visiting the churches, mosques or temples.
Currency
100 centavos is 1 peso. Notes are in denominations of Php 1000 (Blue), Php 500 (Yellow), Php 200 (Green), Php 100 (Purple), Php 50 (Red), Php 20 (Orange). There are P10, P5, P1 Coins and 5, 10, 25 centavo coins.
Tipping Bellhops expect a tip, as do waiters, taxi drivers, hairdressers, beauticians, and porters. Most hotels and restaurants add 10% service charge on top of the government tax. Tipping 5-15% of the bill is appropriate if no service charge included.
Public Transfer Getting around Cebu, one may take a colorful jeepney or bus at a minimal fare. Tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) are popular in outlaying areas and in suburbs, quite notable within Mactan Island. Taxicabs are widely available.
Discover Cebu
