Sugbu Adventure

Apologies for my week-long hiatus from blogging. But keep mum, there’s reason to that. I was in Sugbu; prominently known today as Cebu, the Queen City of the South.

Fresh from Sinulog, the city welcomed me with festive colors from the airport. It was a little port, the size of the one we have in General Santos, but unlike the latter, this beacon breathes a better lounge and pathways for the traveler.

It’s easy to get a white taxi from there. Note that yellow taxis are always the expensive ones in the Philippines, except if you’re in Davao. Waterfront Cebu was its neighbour, but I never dared to step foot in it. I was to embrace Plantation Bay in a few anyway.

Taking a taxi to Plantation Bay that rainy day would cost you about 200 pesos. The place is a man-made haven for relaxation. Ocular viewing is free, but it’s best to spend the moolah for the experience. Go biking, have real buko juice, swim, get a massage, enjoy a couple of drinks in the (literal) poolside bar, sun bathe, and just… breathe. It’s awesome. It’s one of the reasons why I want to go back there soon.

My vacation was short, so immediately after I explored Plantation Bay, I traipsed down Lapu-Lapu Shrine to meet the hero the people paid homage to. Nothing very spectacular, but the souvenir area was a treat. I suggest getting them all there, unless you want to bring home Otap or Danggit; there’s a place for that.

I was expecting an Intramuros-like experience in Fuerza de San Pedro, but it…. fell short of a good one. I fell in love with the doors, yes, but after one round inside, I wanted to leave. Buying the 30/60-pesos entrance ticket isn’t a good idea, but if you want to get all-historical, I suggest the Magellan’s Cross.

I say, visiting Magellan’s Cross is mandatory when you go to Cebu. It’s where history took place (where Magellan planted the cross back in 1521). Around this historic site are women who sell candles. You can light a candle and say your prayer after the woman has enchanted these candles with a prayer/ chant.

Close to the cross is the Basilica de Sto. Nino and the City Hall. I thought about filming the walk I had, but I just couldn’t risk getting robbed. Maybe next time. By the way, if you’re the type who adores the Sto. Nino, this place is a must for you as it sells the thing in different sizes. It’s insane! And it’s on display everywhere!

If you’re the type who likes to visit temples, Cebu has the Taoist Temple. I went there… for the heck of it! There’s not much to do, except play around with dragons, and tourists. If I were you, I’d rather be in Magellan’s Cross for some… heritage.

The traveler in me was more pleased when I tried the tasty lechon and puso at the humble CnT Lechon. Moreover, the Terraces/ Ayala was a good place to while the time away. It was the sunny Greenbelt, I thought, but with the affordable stores. This is home to Casa Verde as well where I had the biggest burger in my life! The 9-inch Big Bang Burger is a must-try. And so is Tin-Tin’s Tavern Shrimps.

Before going home, the Filipino would bring Pasalubong to family and friends, so I got the famous Otap/ Dried Mangoes/ Spicy Squid from Shamrock Pasalubong Center and Danggit from Taboan. I was shocked to see baskets full of it! 500 PhP worth a kilo of yum! Not satisfied, I bought myself 3 marble eggs as souvenirs of my trip from a nearby shop. I can’t wait to go back!

Two days later, I found myself on an hour and fifteen minute trip to Manila from Mactan International Airport. My stay might have been short, but Cebu is a good place to visit. Next time I’m there, I’ll skywalk and pathetically scare myself with the Edge Coaster. Maybe not.