Save-the-date invites, wedding
props, memorable souvenirs, and engagement photos are a great way to convey the
love and chemistry you have with your partner.
So you always have to make sure
that when you are brainstorming for a prenuptial shoot theme, you have to stick
to things that speak a lot about the two of you.
One perfect example is the recent
engagement shoot of Angelie Jean and Paul. They wanted to keep their engagement
shoot as natural and as authentic as possible hence, this came about.
Their photographer, Gail Geriane unleashed her creative juices and came up with these realistic scenarios in her photos. Photos that clearly depict what it’s like to be married. They are going into marriage eyes open wide.
Yes, marriage life is not easy.
But if you’re someone like Anj or Poy who would smile amidst difficulties, what
could go wrong?
“Well I guess it’s a new
year and a new last name”.- Anj
They are going to have a new life, but the same
old love.
Thanks to Balamban’s Best, we can escape the heat of the city and swim in a natural spring pool after only a few hours’ drive.
If you’re someone who is looking for a great escape from the busy life of the city during the Sinulog festivities, visit the Cambuhawe Spring Swimming Pool nestled in Balamban.
With natural flowing water coming from a mountain spring, you can spend your day cooling off in its cold water. Entrance fee is only ₱20 per head.
Balamban’s Best
Balamban’s Best
Balamban’s Best
Balamban’s Best
Moreso, such features an
olympic-size swimming pool so you can never really go asking for more space to swim
and enjoy.
Though it has already opened
previously, the spring has underwent maintenance to be of better service to her
visitors on January 4, 2020. Truly, what a great news to start the year! Kudos
Balamban LGU for initiating such beautification.
Nonetheless, as advocates of
being a responsible laagan, may we remind you to leave with nothing, but
footprints.
REMINDERS:
The spring is closed every Tuesday and Wednesday for maintenance.
Wear proper swimming attire.
No food nor drink within the pool premises.
Cleanliness and safety should be strictly observed at all times.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ENTRANCE FEE:
DAY USE: 8AM to 5PM daily
NIGHT USE: 5PM to 10PM daily
MONDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY
Children below 7 years old and Senior Citizen: FREE
Children below 12 years old: ₱10 per head
Adult: ₱30 per head
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Children below 7 years old and Senior Citizen: ₱10 per head
Children below 12 years old: ₱20 per head
Adult: ₱50 per head
CLOSED on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Exclusive use:
Use of the facilities at night are exclusive for groups with a minimum number of 10 pax
Reservation has to be made 2 days prior to the date of visit
Exclusive rate per person: ₱100
Other Information:
Contact numbers: (032) 254-2172 / (032) 254-8220 local 260
Exact Location: Cambuhawe Spring Swimming Pool, Balamban, Cebu — approx. 45-minute drive from JY Square Mall in Cebu City or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral Highway.
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Gaisano Balamban. From there, ride a tricycle going to the spring.
PRIVATE: Just search for “Cambuhawe Spring” in Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Parking space available.
RENT: Rent a car or avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
Start your year right. Recharge and relax at Unplug.
I know you have probably
binge-ate during the holidays and had the best gastronomic experience. However,
you were stuck at home.
Why don’t we take it up a notch
and dine somewhere relaxing, yet affordable?
Photo from Unplug’s FB Page
Photo from Unplug’s FB Page
Photo from Unplug’s FB Page
Photo from Unplug’s FB Page
Yes, it’s high time we unplug from the bustling city and visit UNPLUG – the restaurant that offers mouthwatering food choices at really affordable rates. More than that, let’s not forget that you get to dine fronting the magnificent panoramic view of Cebu.
Hence, if you’re heading to either Tuburan, Tabuelan, or even Balamban, make sure to pass through the Transcentral Highway because apart from filling in your growling tummy, you can also take good photos for the ‘gram.
Exact location: Sitio Cantipla, Brgy. Tabunan, Cebu City – approx. 1 hour away from the city. Located near the Strawberry Farm Cantipla.
BY VAN: From the Ayala Center Cebu PUV Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at ‘UNPLUG’ in Cantipla (near the Strawberry Farm Cantipla). Van fare is ₱120 per head (one-way).
BY CAR: If you’re bringing your own vehicle, just pin your location to “Unplug” in Transcentral Highway. Hailing a cab or Grab is not possible, unless you rent a car.
Sinulog is coming and so much is
happening; events, parties and many more. Well, if you feel like you can’t wait
for it, we might be adding into your agony but we can guarantee you that this
news will make you ecstatic.
Apart from the usual street
parties, fluvial parade, and procession that the devotees are looking forward
for Sinulog, the organizers have added additional exciting events hoping to
attract more spectators.
Sinulog sa SRP events: January 17, 2020
Morning: Racing of the small boats / “Baruto”
Afternoon: Motorbike racing
7PM: Musical fireworks competition with surprise popular music groups
This one-day grand celebration and we know you’re just as excited as we are. Cebu will lit up the sky, conquer the seas and brave the roads in Sinulog sa SRP.
But, more than being ecstatic for these new events, may we never forget the true essence of why we celebrate Sinulog, to honor Sr. Sto. Niño. Viva Pit Senyor!
It is
without a doubt that Cebu has a lot to offer.
From food, malls, events, and of course, must-visit tourist spots. But if there is a must-recommend by your best Sugbo guide, it would be Busay and/or Balamban. These two famous uphill destinations have taken the internet by storm through its picturesque spots.
1. Mt. Manunggal Eco-Adventure Park (Little Baguio)
Fondly tagged as the “Little Baguio of
Cebu,” Baguio de Cebu Eco Mountain Adventures offers the same excitement
and aura of the Summer Capital of the Philippines.
From Sky Biking, Horseback Riding, Camping, and Trekking, there’s nothing more you could actually ask for. You need not to worry too because you can have your ‘cool’ foodtrip-ing with your family and friends while enjoying the cool breeze.
What to do here?
Sky Bike
Ziplining
Horseback Riding
Camping
Trekking / Mountain Climbing
Food Trip
Fees:
Entrance fee: ₱80 per head
Skybike: ₱150 per head, back and forth.
Horseback Riding: ₱150 per head, per 15 minutes.
Camping: ₱50 per person, just bring a tent if you wish to sleep overnight.
You can go camping, trekking, hiking or mountain climbing (choose between Mt. Mauyog, Monkey Mountain or Manunggal Peak). If you opt to have a guide with you, a charge of P400 per 5pax is collected for the guide.
Exact location: Brgy. Sunog, Balamban, Cebu — approx. 2.5 hours away from the city. Just about 1.5 kilometers after West 35, right turn to Brgy. Sunog.
BY VAN: Take a v-hire going to Balamban from the Ayala Center Cebu Terminal. Ask the driver to drop you off at the alley of Mt. Manuggal or Cantipla. Fare is P120 per person. 1.5-2 hours travel time.
To be specific, this is located approx. 1.5km km from West 35 if your route is through Lahug-Busay-Transentral Highway. You will see a tarp on the right side of the road saying “BAGUIO DE CEBU ECO PARK” (turn right) and from there it’s almost 2km to the Mountain. The journey going there is an adventure already. You will be passing a thrilling drive of a 3.0m max wide undeveloped road with sometimes a cliff on both sides of the road.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “BAGUIO DE CEBU ECO-MOUNTAIN PARK ADVENTURE”. Parking space is available. Hailing a taxi or GrabCar is not possible.
For the travel junkies and thrill seekers,
Adventure Cafe and Zipline should be on your bucket list when in Cebu. More so,
they claim to be the first resto-adventure in the Philippines.
Aptly named as such, the aforementioned offers thrilling adventures like Zip Lining, Stress Wall’s Plate Smashing, Caving, and the like.
EXCITING ADVENTURES THAT YOU CAN DO
ZIP LINE
Conquer your fear and fly over the sky!
Photo by chasingpotatoes.com
The zip line is 256m long (one line); you take two lines. Fee is only P150 per person.
RAPPELLING / WALL CLIMBING
Climb high and test your strength and endurance.
FEE: P100 per person
STRESS WALL
To thy suppressing world, shout out your unexpressed feelings.
FEE: P25 per plate
GUIDED TOURS
A quick getaway from the hustles and bustles of the city.
RATES OVERVIEW:
Zip Line – ₱150 per person
Plate smashing at the stress wall – ₱25 per plate
Climb/Rappel – ₱100 per person
Caving – ₱250 per person (minimum of 5 people per group)
Waterfalls – ₱650 per person (minimum of 5 people per group)
• Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Adventure Cafe.
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Adventure Cafe ” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps.
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
3. BUWAKAN NI ALEJANDRA
Be fascinated by Cebu even more with this
vibrant flower garden, Buwakan ni Alejandra.
Flowers of different kinds and of different colors made this flower garden exceptional and trending. If you’re up for the ‘gram game, this is perfect!
Entrance Fee: ₱75 per adult, ₱50 per head for Kids, PWD & Senior Citizen
Operating hours: 7AM to 6PM, Mondays to Sundays – but if there’s a storm, they will close the premises to protect the flower garden.
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Buwakan ni Alejandra.
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Buwakan ni Alejandra” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Buwakan ni Alejandra is just few meters away from Adventure Cafe.
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
4. D’ Village Antique House
Chill and dine, day and night with your
friends and loved ones at D’Village Antique House.
Get the chance to also savour Cebu’s famous dishes at really affordable prices. So, after all the hustle and bustle of your travel, don’t forget to drop here and chill.
Entrance fee: None
Operating hours: 7AM to 10PM (lights off)
Location: Brg. Gaas, Balamban Cebu
Contact no: 0906-299-0215
How to get there?
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Buwakan ni Alejandra (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at D’Village Antique House.
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “D’Village Antique House” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. D’Village Antique House is just few meters away from Buwakan ni Alejandra .
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
5. Florentino’s Eco Park (Little Tagaytay)
Pegged as the Little Tagaytay of Cebu, Florentino’sEco Park will surely please you with its chill and cozy outdoor ambiance, and the breathtaking view and the foggy weather.
Entrance Fee: ₱100 per person (₱50 is consumable)
Operating hours: 6AM to 7PM, Mondays to Sundays (Best time to go: 6-7AM & 4-6PM)
Corkage fee: None for now, you may bring your own food and drinks. ButBE RESPONSIBLE of your trashes. Leave no trace.
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – across Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway)
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Adventure Cafe (Florentino’s is just right across).
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Florentino’s” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Florentino’s is just across Adventure Cafe.
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
6. FORESSA TRAILS
To someone who enjoys walking, what is
better than a refreshing walk with nature? Nothing, unless you’re walking with
good company.
To fulfill this fantasy, visit Foressa Trails with your peers. Bike or hike around this spacious little town and be one with nature while fulfilling your own adventure.
• The Trails Package – Inclusive of hiking, biking, and camping – P500 per person
• Hike and Bike trails – Day use only – P150 per person
• Viewing only – Day use – Entrance fee: P60 per person
Separate fees for use of the camping grounds, tent and cottage rentals. Exclusive events can also be arranged upon request.
How to get there?
Exact location: Foressa Mountain Town, Cansomoroy, Balamban, Cebu (approx. 90-minute trip from Ayala Center Cebu) — approx. 2.5 hours away from the city. Just about 1.5 kilometers after West 35.
BY VAN: Take a v-hire going to Balamban from the Ayala Center Cebu Terminal. Ask the driver to drop you off at Foressa. Fare is P120 per person.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Foressa Trails”. Parking space is available. Hailing a taxi or GrabCar is not possible.
Claimed to be the country’s only flower
terraces botanical garden, Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garde allows you to
enjoy nature, art, poetry, and music all at once.
Get the chance to walk and dine while being
one with nature while feasting your eyes with at least 127 species of plants
and flowers.
Opening hours: 8AM to 12MN daily
Entrance Fee: ₱100 per head
Contact number: 0917 653 4227
Joel Olivares
Joel Olivares
Joel Olivares
Photo by Issa Perez
Photo by Issa Perez
How to get there?
Exact Location: Malubog, Cebu City (20 minutes away from JY Square and approximately 1km from the La Tegola / Tops Lookout – Busay road). Its garden gate is just right across Malubog Integrated School.
It’s still best to bring your own vehicle so you won’t have a hard time going back to the city. Parking spaces are available.
You can ride a v-hire or van going to Balamban from Ayala Cebu Terminal.
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
8. Tops Lookout
It is always best to end your day with a
breathtaking panoramic view of the city lights. Where better way to spend it?
Tops Lookout.
Get the chance to experience the cold night
breeze of Cebu City while enjoying the glittering lights of the Queen City. You
can chill with a beer on hand and just savor the moment with friends and loved
ones.
Operating hours: 10AM to 2AM daily
Entrance fee: ₱100 per person
Cottage fee: None
Corkage Fee: None
Allow walk-ins? Yes
Contact: 0909-890-5357
Photo by Cường Lê
Photo by Cường Lê
Photo by @danielruedahhh
Photo by @pinkieross
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Cebu Tops Road, Busay, Cebu City, Cebu — 20 minutes away from the main road (from JY Square).
BY JITNEY: 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 Tops Lookout, approximate time of travel is about 30 – 40 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 “Tops Lookout” 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.
9. Don Emilio Botanical Garden
One quick escape you can go to in Cebu City, that is only 20-30 minutes away from the city proper, is this new garden located in the uphill side of Cebu. Dr. Emilio Osmeña Botanical Garden has finally opened its doors to the public.
It is the perfect place for your Instagram photos, or you can simply enjoy and appreciate the beauty of the flower blooms and the cool breeze.
Operating hours: 24/7 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Entrance fee: ₱100 per head (24 hours)
Pyramid Sheds: ₱200 good for 2-3pax, but no fan and foam
Tables / Cottage: FREE for now
Corkage fee: FREE for now
How to get there?
Exact location: Tops Rd., Busay, Cebu City — steep road of Busay, in between Balay sa Busay restaurant and La Vie in the Sky / Tops Lookout.
BY CAR: (Best option) Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for ‘Balay sa Busay’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway. The garden is located few meters after ‘Balay sa Busay’ restaurant and before Tops Lookout. Parking space is available.
BY COMMUTE: Hire a habal-habal driver (Motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at the said garden. Estimated fare is ₱75-100 per person (max of 2).
BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there.
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.
10. La Vie in the Sky
The company behind the “Little Paris” restaurant in Lahug, Cebu City is taking the French dining experience to a higher level (literally) via La Vie in the Sky, the newest mountain-top restaurant and winery located at the steep roads of Busay, Cebu City.
If you loved the truly unique aesthetics of La Vie Parisienne, you will love this even more. It’s one of the most elegant restobars we’ve seen in Cebu with so many Instagram-worthy spots in and outside the restaurant. You can really feel the classic and posh “Little Paris” (French) ambiance while you can enjoy the beautiful skyline of Cebu City.
Entrance fee: ₱100 per head (all consumable for food & drinks)
Operating hours: 7AM to 2AM daily (Mondays to Sundays)
Exact location: Brgy. Busay, Cebu Transcentral Highway, Cebu City — along the road on the way to the popular Tops Lookout (20-30 minutes drive from JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City)
BY CAR: (Best option) Parking space available. Just search for ‘La Vie in the Sky’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps. ‘La Vie in the Sky’ restaurant is located near Tops Lookout Viewing Deck.
BY HABAL-HABAL: Hire a habal-habal driver (Motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at the said restaurant or at Tops Lookout Viewing Deck. Estimated fare is P100 per person (max of 2).
BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there.
11. Temple of Leah
The “Taj Mahal” of Cebu, Temple of
Leah is a grand gesture of love from a husband to his late wife.
Most lovers visit this place because they
say this symbolizes love. However, regardless of one’s status, you should visit
the place to also show yourself some love because we all deserve it.
Visiting hours: 7AM to 6PM daily
Entrance fee: ₱50 per person
Parking fee: ₱100 if inside the premises; free if outside but limited slots only
Other fees: ₱2,500 for professional photography for events
Contact number: (032) 233-5032
Photo from the wires
How to get there?
Exact location: Landon Heights Roosevelt, Busay, Cebu City — few meters away from Temple of Leah and Mountain View Nature’s Park, and 15-20 minutes away from JY Square or city proper.
BY HABAL-HABAL: Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike), near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only ₱100 per head per way – ₱150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city.
BY TAXI/GRAB: T\Max of 4 persons only per car. Some drivers might be okay with it, some are not. Some might ask for more, so be understanding and negotiate well since the road is a bit steep. Estimated cost is ₱200-250 per way from the city (Ayala Center).
BY CAR: This is the best option, if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. The road is concrete and well-maintained, but a bit steep so it’s safe to bring your own car. Parking space is also available. Just navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Temple of Leah”.
BY CAR RENTAL: You can rent a car or book an uphill tour with our trusted travel partner, SquadPH Tours and Travels.
12. Sirao Flower Gardens
Dubbed to be Cebu’s ‘Little Amsterdam,’
Sirao Flower Garden and Farm became infamous because of the visitors’
irresponsibilities. The visitors became uncontrollable.
Nonetheless, Sira Flower Garden and Farm never lost its beauty. With a vast expanse of beautiful and colorful flowers, this is definitely a must-visit too for the ‘gram!
NOTE: For the information of everyone, there are TWO (2) gardens in Sirao. Both gardens are located just beside each other.
1. Original Sirao Flower Garden – Little Amsterdam of Cebu
Left photo by Explorerssaurus | Right by Miraluna Baluca
Entrance fee: P50 per head
Operating hours: 6AM to 6:30PM for all visitors; 6:30PM to 6:30AM for campers
Contact details: 0946 937 7891
How to get there?
Exact location: Brgy. Sirao, Cebu City. Going there in your own vehicle can save you from the hassle of transferring between vehicles and can save you from spending for the fare. Your landmark would be Ayala Heights, take a right turn to Sirao Flower Farm.
BY MOTORBIKE: From J.Y. Square Mall, take a habal-habal that will take you directly to Sirao Flower Farm for ₱400 roundtrip, good for 2 persons already. The driver may ask you for additional waiting fee of ₱100-200 per hour depending on your haggling talent. The ride will take 30-45 minutes to get there.
BY VAN: From the Ayala Cebu PUV Terminal, you can ride a v-hire going to Sirao for ₱50 /head (one-way). Ask the driver to drop you off near Sirao Flower Garden. From there, ride a habal-habal going to the flower garden but it may take time to find one from this point, fare is ~₱20-30 /head.
BY OWN CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Sirao Flower Garden”. Parking fee is ₱20.
BY CAR / VAN FOR RENT: For van or car rentals, or to book an uphill tour (9 destinations in 1 day for only 999 pesos per person), book with our trusted travel partner SquadPH Tours and Travels.
Cebu has been growing not only in tourism and business but also in the sports and athletics department.
This megadome, with an area of more than 12,000 square meters, is a proof that the Local Government Unit (LGU) is starting to notice the importance of sports in the community especially to the youth.
Located in Toledo City, the new Toledo City Sports Center houses two (2) FIFA-standard size playing facilities:
Outdoor playing field
Indoor gymnasium, and dedicated
facilities such as
Rooms for teams, clubs, and
sporting organizations
Rooms for seminars and
workshops or discuss trainings.
Shower rooms
Lockers for players
John Lindsey
John Lindsey
John Lindsey
John Lindsey
John Lindsey
John Lindsey
Cebu has always had competent athletes representing Cebu in National Competitions and being the pride of the Country during the International ones.
With the success of the Cebuano athletes who have competed in the SEA GAMES 2019, it is only right to support our athletes and help them in any way we can.
Official opening of the megadome is on January 6, 2020, which also falls on the celebration of the 60th charter day of Toledo City. It is also said to be the venue for the first SOCA state of the city address of Mayor Joie Piczon-Perales.
Location: M. A. Barba Sports Complex, Toledo-Barili Rd, Poblacion, Toledo City, Cebu — beside CEBECO, between Toledo cable and gasoline station.
When Sinulog is fast approaching but you still can’t get
over the dance craze “Tala”, you get a remix of the two or should I say a
collaboration?
Tala was the hottest dance challenge during the holidays but
we all know the holidays isn’t over in Cebu, in fact, it’s just starting.
Prititit! can
already be heard loud and clear and it is getting the people all kinds of
excited. And by all kinds I mean, like incorporating the dance challenge “Tala”
into the music of Sinulog.
Who says the Cebuanos aren’t that creative and fun? Jelvin Judilla from Mandaue City, Cebu entertains the netizens with Tala: The Sinulog version.
It made quite a buzz for the distinct beat of Sinulog fits
perfectly with the easy and upbeat choreography of Tala. The Sinulog dance is
known to have many interpretations along with its ritual-like actions and swift
graceful movements.
Well this one’s for sure, there will be a lot of covers to come and expect to see the Tala dance craze on the streets of Cebu this coming January 19, 2020 for the Sinulog Mardi Gras.
As of 12:46AM on January 4, 2019, the viral video garnered 47,000 reactions and 40,000 shares.
Brace yourselves, Sugboanons. After Florentino’s – the “Little Tagaytay of Cebu” that captured the attention of thousands of Cebuanos, a new attraction in Balamban is about to steal the spotlight. Introducing Buwakan ni Alejandra, Cebu’s newest pride featuring a vibrant flower garden.
John Ray AligatoJohn Ray AligatoJohn Ray Aligato
Surprisingly, Buwakan ni Alejandra (which is a Bisaya translation of “Alejandra’s flower garden”) had its soft opening since May 2017 but did not much get attention (until this post was published) probably because of “lack of social awareness” and the rising popularity of its neighboring attractions such as Adventure Cafe and Florentino’s.
Or maybe, some explorers chose not to expose this hidden gem. Remember the Sirao Flower Farm? It went viral on social media, and the management had lost control over the irresponsible crowd on the first few weeks, leaving the farm damaged and in negative condition. Some people were just reckless and lacked consideration, just to get the perfect picture. Many were outraged, and that was the time when responsible tourism once again came to light.
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Luzmarie Torreon
Luzmarie Torreon
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Ram Mancelita
SUGBO REMINDER: We strongly encourage all Sugbo.ph followers or readers to be responsible laagans. Make sure you follow and respect the garden’s rules. Protect and help protect the flowers by also reminding fellow tourists, especially when you see someone already stepping on the flowers. Be responsible of your own trash, and leave no trace behind.
Rates & Other Information
Entrance Fee: ₱75 per adult, ₱50 per head for Kids, PWD & Senior Citizen
Opening hours: 7AM to 6PM, Mondays to Sundays — if there’s a storm, they will close the premises to protect the flower garden.
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Buwakan ni Alejandra.
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Buwakan ni Alejandra” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Buwakan ni Alejandra is just few meters away from Adventure Cafe.
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
Love conquers all. No buts, no don’ts. Simply giving, not bothering for what you can’t take back. Find out the story behind Cebu’s newest tourist attraction.
As for Teodorico Adarna, owner of Temple of Leah and grandfather of Filipino actress Ellen Adarna, this huge edifice of Roman Architecture design is his way of showing how strong his love and his ceaseless devotion to his wife, Leah. Yes, this is a temple of love from an inspired imagination.
In the Queen City of the South, a palace of Teodoro Adarna’s Queen Leah Villa Albino-Adarna was made and replicated with a big statue in the middle. After a few years of waiting, the Philippine version of Taj Mahal has finally opened to welcome visitors.
Photo by Cường Lê / Thor Media
Photo by Cường Lê / Thor Media
Photo by Cường Lê / Thor Media
Photo by Cường Lê / Thor Media
Photo by Cường Lê / Thor Media
Photo by Cường Lê / Thor Media
The temple has an art gallery, museum, and a library where all of the favorite things her wife owned are placed. At the top, there’s a spectacular view of the city and more exceptional scenery as you walk through the temple. In this Greek methodology-inspired 7-story mansion, there are gigantic lions lying on each side of the stairs that will guide you to the door step of another jaw-dropping view. You can see a grand staircase with angels made up of brass and the Queen of the Temple in a 10-ft statue with crown and flower.
Booking a flight to Rome and visiting Roman temple will surely cost you a lot of money. If you don’t have a budget yet, why not just pay a visit to Temple of Leah?
Photo from the wires
The Sugbo Ambassadors with Mr. Teodorico Adarna, owner of Temple of Leah
Rates & Other Information
Visiting hours: 7AM to 6PM daily
Entrance fee: ₱100 per person (10 years old and below are free)
Parking fee: ₱100 if inside the premises; free if outside but limited slots only
Other fees: ₱2,500 for professional photography for events
Contact number: (032) 233-5032
How to get there?
Exact location: Landon Heights Roosevelt, Busay, Cebu City — few meters away from Temple of Leah and Mountain View Nature’s Park, and 15-20 minutes away from JY Square or city proper.
BY HABAL-HABAL: Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike), near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only ₱100 per head per way – ₱150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city.
BY TAXI/GRAB: T\Max of 4 persons only per car. Some drivers might be okay with it, some are not. Some might ask for more, so be understanding and negotiate well since the road is a bit steep. Estimated cost is ₱200-250 per way from the city (Ayala Center).
BY CAR: This is the best option, if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. The road is concrete and well-maintained, but a bit steep so it’s safe to bring your own car. Parking space is also available. Just navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Temple of Leah”.
BY CAR RENTAL: You can rent a car or book an uphill tour with our trusted travel partner, SquadPH Tours and Travels.