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Cebu voted as the 2nd Best Island in Asia

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Fuente - John Kimwell Laluma
Photo by John Kimwell Laluma

You heard it right; Cebu has been awarded with the title of 2nd Best Island in Asia.

Last October 2019, Condé Nast Traveler readers voted for the best islands in the world in the 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards. The places each have different categories by region and continent, such as Australia and the South Pacific, Europe, Caribbean and the Atlantic, North America, Africa and the Indian Ocean, and of course, Asia. Cebu has proven itself to be worthy as it captured the hearts of the people gaining enough votes to place itself second.

“Located in the center of the Philippines, Cebu draws nearly 2 million travelers annually for its pristine beaches and diving off the island’s northern coast,”

– Conde Nast Travler

“Spanish and Roman Catholic influences permeate Cebu City; Basilica Minore del Santo Nino houses a small statue of Christ that was presented by Ferdinand Magellan.”

Indeed, Cebu is a wonderful paradise full of secrets and pleasures, yet we should also remember to maintain it that way. One way to help Cebu’s image is to always be kind, hospitable, and helpful to others, as we Filipinos are known for these traits. We should also always remember to be mindful of our own trash and to preserve nature at all cost.

 As a congratulations, here are some notable gems of Cebu that may have contributed to this victory. To those who desire to experience the best of what this island can provide, be sure to visit these Top 100 Places in Cebu.

Photos by Jacob Casile / JaCas Photography

Bid away Japanese surplus at Marutaka Trading in Cebu

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Marutaka Trading Auction Japan Surplus

Have you ever tried bidding?

We often see it in the movies, during auctions, usually in museums with certain artifacts that are way too expensive. But what if I tell you that you can bid for useful and superb items for as low as ₱100? Did I get your attention now?

MURATAKA  AUCTION TRADING is a Japanese surplus auction company in Consolacion (with another branch in Minglanilla) that boasts its NON-TRADITIONAL retail by having all items be sold in a bidding. They can sell approximately more than 1000 QUALITY items a day. Even if it’s for business, personal use or just plain hoarding purposes, they have it all!

The items sold here look amazing that their very low range of prices is hard to believe..

Imagine the excitement that comes with bidding, it’s a thrill like no other. Patiently waiting for that item you want and outbidding someone else. The game is on.

NEW SHOPPING THAT’S AUCTION

STEPS ON HOW TO BID

  1. Assess and look for items that you’d want to bid on. Previewing of items starts at 11AM to 12:45PM.
  2. Register before 1pm and get your bidder number. Bidding starts at 1PM, until 6PM.
  3. Be alert on the items that you like for the bidding is fast.
  4. Raise your number if you want the item at the announced price.
  5. Price will get higher as long as someone is willing to buy that item.
  6. All items are sold on that day so you better grab them for you won’t have a second chance. (a whole new set of items every week)
  7. Claiming of items is on Monday-Wednesday.

Additional storage charge of ₱100 per excess day.

Note: Taking pictures and videos is strictly prohibited during auction.

COME AND ENJOY BIDDING!

BRANCHES:

1. CONSOLACION, Cebu (along the highway) —  Few meters away from SM Consolacion.Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Marutaka Trading” in Consolacion. Parking space is available.

  • Opening hours: Saturday & Sunday — 11AM to 12:45NN (Preview), 1PM to 6PM (Auction)
  • Auction age admission: 20 years old & above only

2. PAKIGNE, MINGLANILLA, CEBU  –  Before Pakigne Barangay Hall. You may search for “Pakigne Barangay Hall” on Waze or Google Maps.

  • Opening hours: Thursday  — 10AM to 12:45NN (Preview), 1PM to 6PM (Auction)
  • Auction age admission: 20 years old & above only

PROMO:

FREE registration for first time bidders for the month of November.

Jessica Sanchez returns to Cebu this November 29, 2019

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Jessica Sanchez In the Spotlight Concert Cebu

Singer-songwriter Jessica Sanchez, American Idol season 11 runner-up, returns to Cebu for a bigger & better concert this November 29, 2019 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

“In the Spotlight Jessica Sanchez” will feature the best original & cover songs and some of her well-loved songs she performed during the Idol days.

Joining the Filipino-Mexican-American artists are Idol Philippines runners-up Lance Busa and Lucas Garcia. Cebuana singers Yessha and Jolianne Salvado are set to open the concert.

EVENT DETAILS:

  • In the Spotlight: Jessica Sanchez, LIVE in Cebu
  • With special guests: Lance Busa and Lucas Garcia
  • November 29, 2019 | Friday, 8PM
  • Waterfront Cebu City, Hotel & Casino

Ticket Prices:

  • General admission: ₱850 each (Free seating)
  • Silver: ₱1,060 each (Free seating)
  • Gold: ₱2,120 each
  • VIP: ₱2,650 each
  • SVIP: ₱3,710 each

Ticket outlets:

  • Online purchase: https://smtickets.com/events/view/8178
  • ALL SM cinema ticket outlets (at ALL SM Malls Nationwide) 
  • Ticket booth at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino
  • Hotline: 0915-535-3873 / (032) 232-6888

FIRST LOOK: Ayala Malls Central Bloc at Cebu IT Park

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Ayala Central Bloc IT Park Cebu

Cebu’s second Ayala mall is finally opening its doors on December 6, 2019.

This grand mall is said to house over 200 stores inside, including outlets composed of retail shops, dining restaurants, and an extensive IT zone for families, young professionals and millennials.

Ram Mancelita
Ram Mancelita

Having a gross retail area of 45,000 square meters, the AyalaMalls Central Bloc will have:

  • 5 levels of retail development
  • 4 digital cinemas
  • 1 indoor activity center
  • Trading Bloc: A fashion gallery / fashion walk
  • Food Choices
  • Metro Supermarket
  • 3-level basement parking
  • A chapel

With the mall’s location inside Cebu’s busy and progressive business district, Cebu IT Park, it is no wonder that Ayala Central Bloc will be that invigorating new hangout place to every Cebuano.

OFFICIAL OPERATING HOURS:

  • Mondays to Saturdays: 11AM to 11PM
  • Sundays: 11AM to 9PM

NEW PHOTOS!

Fresh from the oven! These photos were taken during the media preview on December 4, 2019.

La Vue Cabine: Luxury in Nature in Toledo City

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La Vue Cabine Toledo City Cebu

To describe the place in one word is easy. Wow!

Sprawled atop a mountain with the wide blue sea of Tañon Strait and Mt. Kanlaon as your backdrop, La Vue Cabine is a piece of paradise. Located in Toledo City, this cabin embodies total relaxation and comfort in a posh manner.

La Vue Cabine, the wood cabin getaway for the back-to-basic vacationers accommodates a group of twelve (12) people in one big room. Inside is three (3) double-decked queen size beds, a multi-purpose dining and entertainment room, and a common bathroom.

La Vue Cabine Toledo Cebu3
La Vue Cabine Toledo Cebu1
La Vue Cabine Toledo Cebu2

Apparently, La Vue Cabine was created out of passion: passion for life and passion for nature. Every detail screams passion for the aforementioned because you surely will get to experience life and nature at its finest.

You get to leave your gadgets behind after taking the gram-worthy photos and just spend quality time with family and/or friends.

Rates & Other Information

Rates

  • ₱1,666 per person or ₱20,000 per night for 7-12 guests
  • ₱2,666 per person or ₱16,000 per night for 5-6 guests
  • ₱3,000 per person or ₱6,000 pax per night for 1-2 guests (Mondays to Thursdays only)
  • ₱3,000 per person or ₱12,000 pax per night for 3-4 guests (Mondays to Thursdays only)

Note: Rates include afternoon native drink, sumptuous dinner and a hearty breakfast all from a wide choice of signature local native Filipino dishes.

Inclusions:

  • Afternoon drinks (sikwate / honey lemonsito)
  • Dinner – choice of 3 dishes, rice, fresh fruits and beverages
  • Breakfast – Choice of 2 dishes, eggs, rice and/or bread, fresh fruits and beverages
  • Water/coffee/tea

Notes:

  • Food should be ordered 2 days prior to date of stay
  • No cancellation and no refund policy
  • No Corkage Fee for food and drinks

OTHER INFORMATION

How to get there?

Exact location: Sitio Babag 2, Brgy. Pangamihan, Toledo City — 2-3 hours away from the city, 31km away from JY Square Mall in Lahug.

BY PRIVATE CAR: You can navigate with Waze or Google Maps, and search for “La Vue Cabine”.

  • You can drive up from JY Square Mall Lahug to Barangay Cantipla, Cebu City (Approx. 23 kms). On your left, you will see the La Vue Cabine signage, turn left on that corner, this will lead you to Barangay Sudlon 1. (You will know that you are near that corner once you will pass by the Police Camp with visible checkpoint barriers)
  • Once reaching the “Y” intersection, you will see the La Vue Cabine signage directing you to turn right. That will lead you to Barangay Pangamihan, Toledo City.
  • Drive all the way until you see a waiting shed on your right with the La Vue Cabine Signage. (Approximately 2.8 kms from the “Y” intersection).

BY RENT A CAR: You can also rent a car via SquadPH Travels.

BY VAN/V-HIRE: From the van terminal at Ayala Center Cebu, take a v-hire going to Balamban. Ask the driver to drop you off at Cantipla corner Transcentral Hi-way (Cantipla Strawberry farm). Fare is ₱150. From there, take a habal-habal or the local motorcycle taxi and ask to be dropped off at the La Vue Cabine in Barangay Pangamihan, Toledo City. Fare is ₱80.

Eat your straws with these EATable Rice Straws in Cebu

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Eatable Edible Straws in Cebu

Straw or straw-less? It has always been a question whether to use straw in our favorite drinks — frappes, juice or even your bubble tea. Many would argue that plastic straws and even your so called “eco-friendly” metal straw (especially when not used wisely) contribute to a ton of waste.

Straw has been a staple guilty pleasure for some, especially when you have sensitive teeth or if you want that ease and convenience. Today, the debate is definitely over because finally our winning option has come — the EATable rice straws.

Edible Eatable Straws in Cebu (1)
Edible Eatable Straws in Cebu (2)

Cebu Glass Bottles is currently selling edible straws. These straws are made from 70% rice flour and 30% starch. It is not just an alternative but an absolute replacement to plastic straws.

The straws don’t get soggy like your regular paper straw. It could last for 4-10 hours in your cold drinks and 2-3 hours in your hot drinks. These straws also decompose completely in 90 days.

If you’d rather not eat it, it can be a delicious snack for the marine animal if it ever reaches the oceans.

How & Where to Order?

For packaged and bulk orders, you can directly contact Cebu Glass Bottles.

  • Contact numbers: 0943-437-5455 / 0917-557-7383
  • Operating hours: 8AM to 5PM, Mondays to Saturdays (Closed on Sundays)
  • Office address: L. Gabuya St., Cogon Pardo Cebu City — beside Gabuya Laundry, near Cogon Pardo Brgy Hall.

Fashion Beauty at Vi Vogue in Cebu

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vi vogue cebu salon

A salon that has perfectly blended ‘Beauty’ with ‘Fashion’.

Vi Vogue, the first-ever beauty salon that brought the Japanese cutting-edge nail art technology in Cebu, is the answer to the nerve-wracking preparations for the holidays and special occasions and events.

There will be celebrations and parties left and right from Christmas to New Year to the well-anticipated Sinulog, that we would barely have time to look at a mirror nor think of fashion.

Located along Meerea High Street in Mandaue City (near Trademark Bar & Oqtagon), Vi Vogue will help you ease your worry by availing their services as early as possible before all the chaos comes in.

Vi Vogue Cebu (1)

Nail Care

Manicure, pedicure and gel nails? You name it, they have it. Our nails should always be well presented, but it is also time consuming so better get them done ahead of time. You can choose any color or motif in their wide collection that would give that right statement of fashion.

Price starts at ₱200-300, depending on the extension and/or design.

Vi Vogue Cebu (12)
Vi Vogue Cebu (11)

Eyelash Care

Curling those lashes and putting on mascara every time you have an event is a drag. Eyelash lift and Eyelash extension will solve that one for you. Either of the two will let you have those beautiful lashes for at least a month. You just wake up and you’re beautified and ready to go.

Price starts at ₱500 for retouch and ₱1,000 for full.

Teeth Whitening

Their affordable teeth whitening services will make sure you have pearly white smiles. Those invitations of feasts and merriment will keep coming so dazzle with your laughter and smiles.

Price starts at ₱1,000 per session only.

Other services:

  • Hair Care
  • Facial Care
  • Foot spa
Price:
  • Retouch mink lashes: ₱500
  • Regular eyelash extension: ₱1,000
  • Retouch: ₱1,500
  • High class eyelash extension – Sable: ₱1,500
  • Silk: ₱1,500

Their technology and processes are hygienic so there will be no worries.  And of course, their relaxing and friendly atmosphere, creativity, and the unique Cebuano warmth would surely get you the pampering you deserve.

What are you waiting for? Be fashionably beautified by Vi Vogue now.

Other Information

  • Opening hours: 10AM – 9PM (Mon-Thu), 12NN-12MN (Fri-Sun)
  • Contact Numbers: 344-3027 / 0929 482 1129
  • Social Media: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Unit 10, Meerea High Street, Looc, Ouano Avenue, Mandaue City — near Trademark Bar & OQTAGON.

BY JEEPNEY: From Emall or Sun Gold near SM City Cebu, ride a 01K jeepney going to Cebu Doctors University. Drop off at Peri-Peri Charcoal restaurant where you can find Vi Vogue a bit further.

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your location to “Vi Vogue”.

Boom na Boom Sa Sugbo (Kasadya sa SRP) opens this Nov. 28, 2019 to Jan. 19, 2020

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Kasadya sa SRP

It’s that time of the year again! The gigantic playground in Cebu City for the families and barkada to enjoy this Christmas season is set to open this November 28, 2019!

Formerly known as “Kasadya sa SRP”, the annual carnival fair Boom Boom Sa Sugbo is all set for its opening this November 28. The city’s fantasy land will feature over 30 modern recreational rides and amenities. It will be available until January 19, 2020 (Sinulog Grand Festival Day).

Boom Boom Sa Sugbo will have the same location as last year, at FILINVEST in the South Road Properties along IL Corso Lifestyle Mall.

kasadya-sa-srp-aerial
Photo by Gibson Rhyle Suminguit

Fees, Schedule & Location

  • Entrance fee: ₱20 on weekdays and ₱25 on weekends or holidays, including Christmas Day and New Year.
  • Rides: ₱30 to ₱50 per ride
  • Schedule: 4PM to 2AM daily (November 28, 2019 to January 19, 2020)
  • Exact location: Filinvest at South Road Properties (SRP) along IL Corso Lifestyle Mall
    • For public commute, it’s best to ride the MyBus going to/from Talisay City.
    • For private cars or Grab/taxi, navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Boom na Boom sa Sugbo”. Parking space is available.

Hopefully (still not confirmed), the city government would still offer free shuttle service to pick up passengers from Plaza Independencia and the Mambaling flyover.

Rides

With the same operator as last year (RSF Amusement Park Management), we are expecting almost the same rides. Cebu City’s ultimate fantasy land featured 30 modern recreational amenities, including bob and bee ride for kids, one vikings for kids and another for adults, bumper boat rides, spider, mad birds, two ferries wheels, two pirate ships, airplane, moon rocket ship, dragon boat, horror ride, imported UFO ride, bump cars, astroliner, galaxy, two giant inflatables (dry and wet), among others.

Here are some of the rides you can experience this year:

Soul Sierra: A Garden that soothes the Soul

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Soul Sierra Busay Cebu City

If you wish to unwind somewhere tranquil and serene without being too far, a garden near the city would be the perfect spot.

Soul Sierra is one of the most accessible gardens here in Cebu city. It is located far north of Busay beyond the famous Mountain View and the eponymous Temple of Leah. For more or less than 15 minutes, you’d be wowed by the stunning and aesthetic landscape of the scene. 

Soul Sierra Cebu (2)
Soul Sierra Cebu (3)
Soul Sierra Cebu (4)

For garden lovers, this place is certainly heaven on earth. Priced at ₱300, you can enjoy your cup of coffee, and croissant with a panoramic view to die for.

The aisle takes you to an adventure with nature, filled with blooming flowers and plants. It is noteworthy to mention that this garden is a natural art exhibition, a whole new experience where you cannot just only take pictures for your Instagram but also listen to the silence and the voice of nature.

Soul Sierra Busay Cebu (2)
Soul Sierra Busay Cebu (6)

Aside from the garden, Soul Sierra has its own private place to hold events and celebrations to make your special day even more special.

Soul Sierra Busay Cebu (1)
Soul Sierra Cebu (1)
Soul Sierra Busay Cebu (3)

Since Soul Sierra is still in its soft opening, limited amenities and products are open and served to the public but reassured that it is definitely a marvelous experience, a place for you to think and to destress from the busy life of the city.

Rates & Other Information

Day Use (Entrance Fee)

  • Adults: ₱100 per head (The Garden at Soul Sierra, does not include the Mansion access)
  • Children under 3 y/o: FREE
  • Operating hours: 9AM – 9PM on weekdays and 8AM – 9PM on weekends, Open Sunday Meditation from 6AM – 8AM

Note: Outside food and drinks are not allowed. And you may want to bring a mosquito/insect repellant.

Overnight Rates

Soul Sierra is a wellness retreat center in the luscious mountains of Cebu.

Private Room Rate: ₱10,000 to ₱12,500 per night, good for 2pax (Rate is based on Airbnb)

Inclusions:
– A welcome drink upon arrival
– Plant-based breakfast for 2
– Private chef
– Daily yoga or fitness class
– 1hr massage per guest
– Airport/city pick up and drop off

Optional/Additional:
– Lunch & dinner meals created especially by their chefs
– 1hr Reiki and Sound Healing session
– Van hire

*All of their meals are vegan. Inform them ahead if you have any allergies.

Book now! Click this link first: https://www.airbnb.com/c/ramm357 and sign up. After signing up, head on to this link.

Other Information

How to get there?

Exact location: Babag Uno, Busay, Cebu City — 3km after Temple of Leah, 20-30 minutes away from JY Square Mall.

BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Busay such as 04L or 04H and tell the driver to drop you off to JY Square. From there, ride a habal-habal (motorbike) and tell the driver to drop you off to Soul Sierra (3km after Temple of Leah), approximate time of travel is about 20-30 mins. Fare is ₱100 per person (one-way).

BY CAR: If you’re driving your own car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Soul Sierra” or refer to the map below. Parking space is available.

BY CAR / VAN FOR RENT: For van or car rentals, or to book an uphill tour (9 destinations in 1 day for only ₱999 per person), book with our trusted travel partner SquadPH Tours and Travels.

7 Best Food Places for your Midnight Cravings

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midnight cravings cebu

Just got out from your OT? Or simply craving for some delicious treats during wee hours? Worry no more because we’ve got you covered!

We usually get cravings like pizza, chicken, or desserts by bingeing that one Youtube channel full of mukbang challenges late at night, those kdramas you can’t keep your eyes off or those animes in its 200th episode. Now what? Stay hungry and sleep? No way!

Here’s a list of your must-go-to places when everyone’s asleep and you want to sneak out for a quick food fix:

1. Migag Unli Samgyeopsal at APM Mall

Samgyeopsal has been our favorite, go-to food to satisfy our big appetite. Eat-all-you-can meat, grilling and unlimited chikkahan never sound this good at dawn. The famous Migag Unli Samgyeopsal at APM Mall (across SM City Cebu) is open until 5AM.

  • Price: ₱289 per person, unlimited meat – Samgyeopsal / pork belly, marinated pork, pork bulgogi – with unlimited rice and side dishes
  • Operating hours: 10 AM to 5 AM daily (Mondays to Sundays)
  • Exact location: APM Mall (old building), alongside Luy’s Tea House. Located just right across SM City Cebu. You can search for “MIGAG Unli Samgyeopal APM Cebu City” on Waze or Google Maps.
migagsamgyeopsal-apmcebu-4
migagsamgyeopsal-apmcebu-15

2. Braddex

Braddex is your local dimsum place offering steam rice, siomai, and a homebrew of Chinese food choices. It is open 24/7 which is definitely good for a night owl like you.

  • Price: ₱7/pc for Siomai, ₱30 for steamed rice
  • Operating hours: 24/7
  • Exact location: Katipunan St., Tisa, Cebu City (near Siomai sa Tisa and Sol’s Tisa)
Cherryl Orleans

3. Pancit Cantonan sa Ramos

You’d say you can cook your own pancit canton at home but nothing is as scrumptious as eating your favorite canton in Pancit Cantonan sa Ramos. It’s only open every 10PM to 3AM daily.

Though its name is Pancit Xantonan, it serves more than that. They cook almost all instant foods like corned beef, beefloaf, noodles, sardines all having the option of with or without egg and many more.

You pick it. They cook it.

  • Price: ₱15 for pancit canton, ₱20-45 per canned good depending on the type
  • Operating hours: 10PM to 3AM daily
  • Exact location: Ramos St., Cebu City — right across Velez College

4. Tuslob Buwa at Azul

Tuslob Buwa is one of the many striking food you can find in the streets of Cebu. 

Azul is now making a name on this industry, most especially after getting featured on Netflix’s Street Food Asia. They provide you your own set in preparation for the cooking, with guidelines on how to cook on your own. But if you don’t know how to cook Tuslob Buwa, just ask for assistance from the staff.

  • Price: ₱150 for regular (with 12 puso/hanging rice); ₱180 for special with chicharon bits, egg, roasted garlic
  • Operating hours: 24/7
  • Exact location: along Gorordo Ave, Cebu City — few meters away from Golden Peak Hotel, before CIC.
tuslobbuwa-azulcebu-1
tuslobbuwa-azulcebu-11

5. Silogan ni Gian

Speaking of Silog, Silogan ni Gian is the king. Every hungry college student knows that Silogan ni Gian trots out the best silog combinations from your regular longsilog to your oh so extra porksilog.

  • Price: They offer very affordable meals for as low as ₱30.
  • Operating hours: 24/7
  • Common branches:
    • Ramos St., near Velez College
    • Near USC Talamban Campus
    • Near UV Banilad
    • Lahug near La Vie
Cheenne Mariz Sinining
Camille Sheenlie

6. Bubble Tea Station

Some late night milk tea? but where? Bubble Tea Station at Shell across USC North Campus is open 24/7. You can order your favorite milktea with pearl and gulp up all that sweet goodness.

  • Price: ₱80-95 per cup
  • Operating hours: 24/7 at Shell USC North Campus

7. Siomai sa Tisa

One of the most popular street food in Cebu, most especially at night, is the “Original Siomai sa Tisa”. It’s best paired with pancit canton, puso, and soft drinks.

  • Price: ₱7/pc for siomai, ₱3-5/pc for puso
  • Operating hours: 24/7
  • Exact location: along Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City
unli siomai cebu