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10 Resorts in Mactan You Should Check Out

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It’s always good for us to unwind a bit from the stressful life of 9 to 5 jobs, yet these days we have little time to actually travel and enjoy Cebu’s luxuries.

A good solution to that, though, are resorts. Resorts are a good way to relax without the need to go to overly far places yet still be as grand.

This time, we’ll be looking at Mactan in search for 10 resorts worth checking out.

1. Dusit Thani

Be captivated and enchanted by Dusit Thani, a charming place to relax and enjoy without a care in the world. Their pool is so large; it could be a swimmer’s delight. And, whether you believe it or not, the resort itself is a 5-star resort. Come and experience what it feels like.

Rooms

  • Deluxe Room: ₱6,200 – ₱7,120/ night
  • Deluxe Room Sea View: ₱8,056 – 9,120/ night
  • Dusit Club Room: ₱10,710/ night
  • Executive Suites: ₱32,880/ night

Other Information

How to Get There?

Exact location: Punta Engano Road, Mactan Island, Lapu Lapu City 6015, Cebu — 20-30 minutes away from Mactan Cebu Airport, 1.5-2 hours away from Cebu City.

Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu is located on the northern tip of the Punta Engano Peninsula. It is easily accessible by land and sea transport, just 11 km from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and is accessible to nearby points of interest and popular island-hopping ports.

2. BE Resort Mactan

BE Resort Mactan is as stylish as it gets. Its serene atmosphere is the right atmosphere to calm the soul and mind. Whether be it swimming in the pool, in the beach, or just relaxing and sitting while watching the clouds, it is up to you. They even have game rooms and a buffet if it is up to your taste.

Rooms

  • Be Cool Room (City View): ₱5,125/night; 2 Queen Size Beds
  • Be Chic Room (Sea View/Pool Vew): ₱6,125/night; 2 Queen Size Beds
  • Be Classy Room (Full Sea View): ₱8,000/night; 1 King Size Bed

Other information

Exact location: Punta Engano Road, Mactan, Lapu Lapu City, Cebu — 20-30 minutes away from Mactan Airport, 1.5 hours away from the city proper.

3. Bluewater Maribago

Rooms

  • Deluxe Room: ~₱10,000 per night
  • Anuma Spa Suite: ~₱12,000 per night
  • Premier Deluxe Room: ~₱14,000 per night
  • Royal Bungalow: ~₱20,5=000 per night

Other Information

Exact location: Buyong Maribago, Mactan Island Lapu-lapu City Cebu

4. Aozora Seaside Mactan Resort

The blue in Aozora Seaside Mactan Resort is a refreshing sight for sore eyes. In fact, the name “Aozora” is a Japanese word which means “blue sky” and it deserves its beautiful name. It is more than this, however, as the resort has earned a good reputation for their rooms and services. Go ahead and give yourself the right doze of blue!

Rooms

All their rooms are good for 2, have air conditioners, TV, refrigirator, and shower along with complementary breakfast.

  • Deluxe King Bed Room: ₱3,850/night; 1 king size bed; with bathtub
  • Standard Queen Bed Room: ₱3,360/night; 1 Queen size bed
  • Standard Twin Bed Room: ₱3,360/night; 2 semi double size bed

Other Information

How to Get There?

Exact location: Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu — approx. 20mins away from Mactan Airport, and 1-1.5 hour away from Cebu City.

Exact location: Mactan Newtown Beach, Lapu-Lapu City — approx. 45 mins to 1 hour from Cebu City.

5. Cordova Reef Village Resort

Welcome to Cordova Reef Village Resort, where the marine life around its island is rich and diverse. Long streams of water slither around the area making it a great place to swim around and drift away from the stress. Drift away under the sun and under the palm trees here.

Rooms

Each room can only accommodate 2 persons and maximum of 3 for double/twin rooms. Extra person charge with bed is P1,830 and extra person charge using existing bed is P1,600. Kids 6-11 y/o charge is P1,410 per night. Each room also has air conditioner, toilet and bath amenities, Hot/Cold water, and Cable TV.

  • Deluxe Garden Villa: ₱6,888/night; 1King size bed
  • Deluxe Poolside Villa: ₱6,888/night; 1 King size bed
  • Double Deluxe Garden Villa: ₱7,448/night; 2 Full Size Beds
  • Double Deluxe Ocean Villa: ₱7,448/night; 2 Full Size Beds

OTHER INFORMATION:

How to Get There?

Exact location: Sitio Bantayan Poblacion, Cordova, Cebu. Getting around is not difficult, as the resort is located in Mactan Island where the airport and main commercial districts are only a taxi ride away (30-minute drive from the airport or 45 minutes from the city).

Taxi/Uber/Grab: A ride from the city would cost around P250-300, good for 4 people.

V-Hire:Ride a v-hire from the SM City Cebu Terminal going to Cordova (P40/pax fare) then drop off at Cordova Grandmall

6. Mactan Isla Resort and Casino

Mactan Isla Resort and Casino is the right place for risk-takers and those who are feeling lucky. The resort has great accommodations such as their spa and buffet, yet one of its great assets is the casino. Taking the right amount of risks will surely energize a soul or two.

Rooms

  • Deluxe Room: ₱4,800/night with breakfast for 2
  • Deluxe Plus Room: ₱6,500/night with breakfast for 2
  • Suite Room: ₱8,000/night with breakfast for 2

Other information

How to Get There?

Exact Location: Agus Road, Ibabao, Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. 1 hour away from Cebu City, and 20 minutes away from Mactan Airport.

Public Commute: From SM City, ride a 01K jeep (across APM Mall or near Sun Gold) going to Parkmall. Or ride 01K jeep from Emall. ₱7-15 fare. From Parkmall Terminal, ride a MI-04B multicab going to So-ong (SOONG) / Maribago – fare is ₱10/head. Ask the driver to drop you off near Mactan Isla Resort and Casino. It’s a bit of a walk getting to the resort, or you may hire a tricycle.

7. Solea Mactan Cebu Resort

Solea Mactan Cebu Resort is much more like a city itself than a resort. It has a lot of accommodations: from their gym, souvenir shop, and their very own airport transfer, it’s a bustling city of luxury and comfort. Be ready to meet and mingle with a lot of people!

Rooms

  • Deluxe Seaview: ₱10,500/night, good for 2pax
  • Suite Seaview: ₱11,000/night, good for 2pax
  • Premier Suite: ₱11,500/night, good for 2pax
  • Executive Suite: ₱11,700/night, good for 2pax
  • Garden Wing: ₱10,500/night, good for 2pax
  • Pool View: ₱10,700/night, good for 2pax
  • Spa Side: ₱11,200/night, good for 2pax
  • City View: ₱11,200/night, good for 2pax
  • Garden View: ₱11,200/night, good for 2pax
  • Sea Garden: ₱11,200/night, good for 2pax
  • Solea Suite: ₱27,700/night, good for 2pax
  • Presidential Suite: ₱42,700/night, good for 2pax

Other information

How to get there?

Exact location: Wahing Street, Barangay Alegria, Cordova, Cebu — 45 minutes away from the city proper, and 30 minutes from Mactan Airport.

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Solea Mactan Cebu Resort”.

BY COMMUTE: From SM City Cebu, ride a v-hire going to Gaisano Cordova (last stop). From there, ride a tricycle going to Solea Mactan Resort.

8. Alta Cebu Resort

Photo from Agoda
Photo from Agoda

Alta Resort hails itself as one of the well-known resorts for events such as weddings, gatherings, get-togethers, and more. Impressively, it is a great pick for events because of its wide area and great service. With its design, staying here will immerse you to the culture of Cebu.

Rooms

  • Standard Double Room: P2,777/night; 2 pax
  • Superior Double Room: P3,843/night; 2 pax
  • Deluxe Double Room: P4,941/night; 2 pax

Other Information

Exact Location: Tugbungan, Barangay Pilipog, Cordova, Cebu

9. Crimson Resort and Spa

Rooms

  • Deluxe Room: ~₱9,000 per night
  • Deluxe Garden Room: ~₱9,500 per night
  • Private Pool Villa: ~₱22,500 per night
  • Ocean Front Pool Villa: ~₱26,500 per night

Other Information

Exact Location: Seascapes Resort Town, Soong, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

10. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa

Photo from Plantation Bay FB Page

Rooms

  • Deluxe Room: ~₱15,500 per night
  • Lagoon View Room: ~₱17,500 per night
  • Pool Side Room: ~₱20,000 per night
  • One-bedroom Suite: ~₱26,500 per night

Other Information

Exact Location: Marigondon Beach Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

The beautiful Maravilla White Beach in Tabuelan

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Photo by John Ray Aligato / The Island Nomad

Cebu is known for many things: rich culture, amazing & friendly people, vibrant feasts, irresistible local food, and beautiful attractions. But more than anything else, one thing that usually first comes to mind when Cebu is mentioned — beaches.

While Cebu has so many popular beaches, there’s this newly discovered public white beach that trended on social media lately. This is the Maravilla White Beach in Tabuelan, which offers an escape not just from the city life, but also from the noise and crowds of the usual getaway destinations.

The best part? There’s no entrance fee for now (though there are some resorts or entry points that will charge a small fee).

Photo by John Ray Aligato of The Island Nomad
Photo by John Ray Aligato of The Island Nomad
Photo by John Ray Aligato of The Island Nomad

Where to stay?

It’s basically a public beach — like the ones in Moalboal (Basdaku) and Badian (Lambug) where you can freely enjoy the pristine white beach under the heat of the sun and even go “beach camping”. All at no cost, but with one rule: LEAVE NO TRACE.

If you plan to stay overnight and want to have a more comfortable sleep, there are several affordable beachfront resorts including:

1. Therrish Beach Resort

DAY USE RATE

  • Entrance fee:
    • ₱100 per head, w/o pool use, beach access only
    • ₱200 per head, pool & beach access
  • Table with canopy: ₱600-800 per day
  • Day time use: 8AM to 5PM daily

NATIVE ROOMS 

  • Native Non Air-conditioned Room
    • ₱1,500 per night, good for 2pax
    • This is an upstairs unit overlooking the ocean. 
  • Native Air-conditioned Room
    • ₱2,500 per night, good for 2pax
    • This is a downstairs unit near the beach front. 
  • Native Air-conditioned Room
    • ₱3,000 per night, good for 4 pax
    • This is located at the beach front. 

Contact information

  • Contact numbers: 0949-896-3817 / 0929-998-5264 (Tessie E. Repalam)
  • Social: Facebook Page

2. The Tree Sunset Resort

• BEACH KUBO:
– Overnight: P1,000 per night, good for 4pax
– Day use: P700 per day, good for 6pax

• TREE HOUSE:
– Overnight: P1,500 per night, good for 6pax
– Day use: P1,200 per day, good for 6pax

• AIRCONDITIONED ROOM:
– Overnight: P3,500 per night, good for 6pax
– Day use: P3,000 per day, good for 10pax

• Walk-ins? Yes.
• Corkage Fee? None as of the moment. But STRICTLY clean as you go.
• Contact number: 0995 904 4505
• Social: Facebook Page

3. Durhan White Beach Resort

• Room Rates: P1,000 /night (4 heads), P1,800 /night (2 heads), P2,000 /night (3 heads), P3,000 /night (6 heads), P1,800 / night (2 heads)
• Walk-ins? Yes.
• Corkage Fee? None as of the moment. But STRICTLY clean as you go.
• Contact number: (032) 461 9318 / (032) 512 8870 / 0932-607-0935
• Social: Facebook Page

4. Maravilla Beach Club

• Room Rates: P2,000 good for 2pax (max of 3). All rooms are the same.
• Walk-ins? Yes.
• Corkage Fee? None as of the moment. But STRICTLY clean as you go.
• Contact number: 0947-890-7974
• Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Maravilla, Tabuelan, North-Western Cebu — 2-3 hours away from Cebu City.

From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus going to Tabuelan – fare is ~P100 per person. Drop off at Tabuelan Public Market – where you can buy ahead your food. From the Public Market, ride a motorbike or habal2x going to Maravilla Brgy Hall. Once you’ve arrived at the Barangay Hall, you will see a basketball court behind it. Walk through the eskinita or alley for about 3-5 minutes until you reach to the beach.

 PHOTOS BY Princess Zhavia A

24/7 Tuslob Buwa at Azul in Cebu City

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I’ve been hearing a lot of stories and invitations to try this famous “Tuslob Buwa”. At first, I refused to give it a shot for sanitation reasons. But I changed my mind after tasting just one dip. It was indeed a different taste of bubbles.

Tuslob Buwa is one of the many striking food you can find in the streets of Cebu. It is believed to originate in Brgy. Pasil where residents find it as their daily source of income. And it is where I had my first Tuslob Buwa experience.

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Basically, Tuslob Buwa (to dip into bubbles) is composed of pig brain, pork liver or intestines (can be optional), onions, oil, soy sauce or fish sauce, and other assorted seasonings. All of these ingredients will be put together in a pan until it boils. This will be best served with your puso (hanging rice) that will be dip into the pan, as its name suggests. It is economical since you only get to pay for the puso you consumed.

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You must have heard about stores that offer Tuslob Buwa where you can enjoy it yourself or with people you know and “trust”. And where’s best to try it than AZUL in Cebu City?

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.

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Tuslob Buwa Rates:

  • 1 Set with 12-pc Puso (hanging rice)
    • Regular: ₱150
    • Special: ₱180 with chicharon bits, egg, roasted garlic

Open 24/7 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week), Azul is located along Gorordo Ave, Cebu City — few meters away from Golden Peak Hotel, before CIC.

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With that, you might consider including this bubble experience in your to-do list when you’re in Cebu. So as for me and my taste buds, Tuslob Buwa is good. Dip in!

Other Information

How to get there?

Exact location: Taft Business Center, Gorordo Ave, Cebu City.

BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Gorordo Ave or Lahug. Inform the driver to drop you off at “Azul Tuslob Buwa” near UP Lahug Campus. These are the jeepneys that will pass through Azul:
– 04C from Colon via Ramos
– 04I from Colon via Jones

BY CAR / GRAB: Just navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Azul Gorordo”. Ample parking space is available.

All the goodness you deserve at ‘Yoyi’s Pastries & Desserts’ in Cebu City

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“Pastries and Desserts”

Mention these two words and we’re already salivating. I mean who doesn’t want sweets? That happiness and euphoria you feel in every bite is just incomparable.

Well, let it be known that all these feelings of goodness we deserve has come for Cebu, at Yoyi’s Pastries and Desserts, as their first branch in Cebu outside of Ormoc.

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Yoyi’s has been a favorite pasalubong center in Ormoc for 24 years, and its branch in Cebu will be celebrating its 5th year this October 15, 2019. They are known for their very affordable delicacies that will make you dash to satisfy that sweet tooth in no time.

Their best-sellers include:

  • Cassava bars
  • Heavenly mango cakes

Also a must-try are their chewy and moist crinkles, their mouth-watering assorted revel bars, and the best-tasting butternut squash carrot cake.

Other treats include:

  • Brownies
  • Butterscotch bars
  • Classic Chocolate Cake
  • Brazo de Mercedez
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Yoyi’s Pastries and Desserts has mastered the well-balanced sweetness that will make even the not so sweet-inclined people have a taste.

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CUSTOMIZED CAKES & MORE!

Want your cakes to be personalized? They’ve got you covered for they also offer customized or themed cakes for special occasions like birthdays, graduations, weddings, and other special events.

Those wedding cakes have all these variety of flavors to choose from: chocolate, vanilla, butternut squash carrot, red velvet, mocha, and even mango.

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Branches:

  • Cebu Branch: G/F Medalle Bldg., J Llorente St., Cebu City — near Hi-Precision Fuente, only 15-20 minutes from downtown Colon and within walking distance from Osmena Boulevard.
  • Ormoc Branch: Corner Aviles & San Pedro Sts., Ormoc City

ANNIVERSARY PROMO

On its 5th Anniversary in Cebu this October 15, Yoyi’s Pastries & Desserts offers a slice of their best-selling Heavenly Mango Cake for only 5 PESOS!

What are you waiting for? Visit them on October 15!

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Opening hours: 8AM to 8PM (Mondays to Saturdays) & 9AM to 6PM (Sundays)
  • Contact numbers: (032) 511-9384 / 0949-765-6778
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Yoyi’s can also be found on GrabFood starting on October 15, 2019.
  • Branch: G/F Medalle Bldg., J Llorente St., Cebu City — near Hi-Precision Fuente, only 15-20 minutes from downtown Colon and within walking distance from Osmena Boulevard.

Gorilla Boot Camp: A Camp for Thrill Seekers in Cebu

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Gorilla Boot Camp Cebu

What’s the best way to get your adrenaline fix? The answer — Gorilla Boot Camp.

It’s not like hitting your regular gym. It’s the only open field boot camp that offers the Obstacle Course Race (OCR) training revolution. Gorilla Boot Camp is good for elite racers who want to test their limit when it comes to practical performance. For beginners, the camp also creates engaging and fun ways to get that sweat.

Here is a list of the outdoor facility obstacles :

  • 6ft Wall Climb
  • Slippery Wall
  • Rope Climb
  • Barbed Wire Crawl
  • Monkey Bars
  • Hurdles.

Gorilla Boot Camp has become a go-to location for thrill seekers and curious beginners a like.

With the goal to help anyone engage in obstacle races, and to help everyone, especially the children and youth, to be more active rather than be busy with their gadgets.

Gorilla Boot Camp ensures affordable and wholesome deals for families and friends to kick start this fun and healthy activities too.

Rates & Other Information

Rates:

  • ₱300/session with Coach, All-in (no hidden charges)

Other information:

  • Opens 6:30 AM – To visit, please reserve your slot.
  • Contact number: 0917-878-2448 (for inquiries & slot reservation)
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Latasan Labogon, Mandaue City, Cebu (Gorilla Grounds)

BY JEEPNEY: From Colon, you can ride 01K going to SM City Cebu, then from there ride a jeepney with a route going to Liloan the one with number code 25, stop at Basak Elementary School. From there (or from Lolo Tinong’s Bakery), you may ride a tricycle or habal-habal going to the camp.

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Gorilla Boot Camp” in Mandaue City.

Make you adrenaline fix reach its peak by hopping in the muddy bumpy terrain and experience a new meaning of adventure.Get ready to unleash your hidden super strength at the Gorilla Boot Camp.

10 Interesting Finds at SM Seaside City Cebu

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SM Seaside City Cebu is getting more interesting. With all these new finds popping out, we all wonder what’s worth trying out. Well, I’ve got you covered and made a list just for you.

1. Virtual World Cebu

The future of gaming is here! Virtual reality (VR) gaming at Virtual World Cebu is that upgrade we’ve all been waiting for.

Experience being inside a game and living that game. It’s never been this fun and exhilarating! Imagine the setting of “Tron” and the storyline of ” Jumanji”, that is what the Virtual World offers.

More details here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/virtual-world-cebu/

2. Wild Bow Archery

“I volunteer as tribute!” as what Katniss Everdeen would say from the very famous book (and movie) The Hunger Games.

Wild Bow Archery is the very first indoor archery range in Cebu. Their equipment is 100% legit – this means, their bow and arrows are authentic and are ordered from their suppliers abroad.

More details here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/wild-bow-archery-cebu/

3. Ice Skating

There are two points to remember before you go skating: perfect fit and balance. “Perfect fit” refers to boots that fits exactly to your feet so you won’t fall off easily. “Balance” is something you naturally have and if not, you’ve got to practice.

Enjoy the countless falling downs and chilly feet at the Ice Skating World.

More details here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/ice-skating-world-sm-seaside/

4. Sizzling City

Sizzling!

That is how we want our food to be served. The kind that burns with its hotness and fills the air with its flavor. Sizzling City serves your favorite Filipino dishes sizzling hot and grilled.

The best thing about this resto is it comes with:

  • UNLIMITED RICE
  • UNLIMITED SOUP Refills

The food here is very affordable and the place is spacious enough to fit the whole family and the whole neighborhood.

It’s a great steal especially for a budget-friendly trip to the seaside with all the shopping and a great filling of our tummies after we’re all done with the different activities here at seaside.

More details here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/sizzling-city-cebu/

5. Sky Park

Tired legs and aching feet? The Sky Park has your back! It is the go-to place to hang out and relax at SM Seaside.

It is also a vibrant family playground where the kids can run around and play to their hearts content. They have dinosaur-shaped sheds, slides inspired by flying saucers and UFOs, and of course their fave water play.

Surrounding the Sky Park are various restaurants and cafes for you to choose from. Pair it with its amazing view Sky Park is worth the visit.

6. Colour Museum

The museum will surely make you feel as if you’re in a kaleidoscopic world. Get your phones up and ready because the place is so fabulous, it’s the perfect place for a colorful feed on your Instagram and for those wonderful and playful memories.

Get out of the grey and boring routine and add some color to ease up your mind. The Color Museum Cebu will brighten your day in no time.

More details here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/colour-museum-cebu/

 7. SM Bowling and Leisure Center

This leisure center got it all. The fun sport of bowling, 3 KTV rooms, a billiards area, gaming facilities and of course, the snack bar.

It surely is a one package of family and barkada bonding right here. Now, it’s not such a waste of time deciding where to go next. You just come here and your itinerary is good as done.

  • Rates:
    • ₱120 per hour (Monday – Thursday)
    • ₱130 per hour (Friday – Sunday and Holiday)
    • ₱99 per hour for students
  • Shoe rental: ₱50 per hour
  • Billiards: ₱250 per hour
  • KTV: ₱150 per hour

8. Tim Ho Wan

Tim Ho Wan is known for being Hong Kong’s famous Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant, also famous for their pork buns. They’ve earned their reputation by serving good food that is affordable compared to its competitors.

A Chinese restaurant of class and great tasting food, most especially their all-time favorite pork buns.

9. Tong Yang Plus

A buffet restaurant that has the fusion of shabu-shabu and grill. The people behind this sumptuous sating of our hungry stomachs are also the people that brought Vikings Luxury Buffet. So this restaurant definitely guarantees a food feast.

More details here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/tong-yang-plus-cebu/

10. Home of the Biggest Branches of Branded Stores

H&M and Penshoppe — these are just two of some stores flaunting their biggest and most spacious store in the Philippines at SM Seaside City Cebu.

#PenshoppeSeasideCebu

Day 2 of our BIGGEST STORE EVER today! Cebu, are you ready for more? Here we go! #PenshoppeSeasideCebu

Posted by Penshoppe on Friday, November 27, 2015

How to get to SM Seaside?

Exact Location: SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City.

BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena. Or ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall. Check the routes & schedules here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/cebu-mybus-guide/

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu”. Parking space is free.

6 Ramen Restaurants you should try in Cebu

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It’s September now and as expected, it’s a rainy month. It’s a season that can easily shift one’s moods and daily plans. Many have different ways of coping with the season, but for me, personally, one good way is treating yourself with a good bowl of ramen.

It is true, that most Cebuanos have acquired a taste when it comes to ramen. This Japanese dish has captured the Cebuano palate as various ramen shops have been popping in the area in the past few years. Here are the top 6 ramen shops in Cebu.

1. Ramen Yushoken

Ramen Yushoken is always on the critics’ list when it comes to the top ramen shops here in the city. The reason for that is that Koji Tashiro, a ramen champion where his recipe was the main basis for this restaurant’s flavorful ramen making it a topnotch choice.

A little history in the shop’s name, ‘yusho’ translates to ‘champion’ while ‘ken’ is Japanese for ‘house’.

  • Operating hours: 11AM to 11PM daily
  • Contact number: (02) 808 7424
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: Oakridge Business Park, AS Fortuna, Mandaue City, Cebu
Ramen Yushoken Cebu Mandaue (1)

2. Hamakaze Dining and Bar

For those who are still planning to try ramen for the first time, Hamakaze Ramen is perfect since it offers a good selection of ramen dishes. They serve traditional ramen and at the same time, their prices are reasonably affordable.

  • Operating hours: 12PM to 3PM, 6PM to 5AM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 505-4220
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: AS Fortuna, Mandaue City, Cebu — across Lightsite Parc / The Space.
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3. Rai Rai Ken

This authentic ramen house is considered as one of the oldest here in the city, as they opened shop in 1993. Having existed for more than two decades, this proves that they are definitely one of the best ramen stores around.

  • Operating hours: 10AM to 9PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 233-2242
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Branches:
    • SM City Cebu
    • Ayala Center Cebu
    • Gaisano Mactan Island Mall
    • SM City Consolacion
    • Robinsons Fuente Cebu City

4. Tongara Ramen

Tongara basically derived their name by combining tonkotsu (pork bone broth) and torigara (chicken bone broth). The two are actually their main secrets in serving delicious ramens, as patrons keep coming back for more.

  • Operating hours: 11AM to 11PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 254-6374
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: Escario Central, N. Escario Street, Capitol Site, Cebu City

5. Barikata Ramen Bar

Hardcore ramen fans are quite picky, that is why Barikata Ramen Bar is perfect for them. By definition, ‘barikata’ is a Japanese word used to refer the type of noodles used in the ramen being served, and translates to ‘very hard’. Barikata is very particular when it comes to their ingredients as well, only serving with the freshest ingredients.

  • Operating hours: 11:30AM to 10:30PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 268 9582 / 0929-349-7570
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Location: G/F Calyx Centre, IT Park, Cebu City

6. Ikkousha Ramen

Here’s an authentic Japanese Ramen restaurant from Fukuoka Japan in Cebu City. Their best-seller is the Godfire ramen.

  • Operating hours: 11AM to 11PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 383-1933
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Branches:
    • JY Square Mall in Cebu City
    • Robinsons Galleria Cebu

Be it your comfort food or not, ramen, for me, will always be a good idea. Go forth and make sure to try these places!

Tong Yang Plus: Unli Shabu-shabu & Barbecue at SM Seaside

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Tong Yang Plus Cebu

Craving for Shabu-shabu and Barbecue? You are often presented to choose between these two – but this time, Tong Yang Plus gives you the best of both as they offer both scrumptious dishes for you to enjoy.

Tong Yang Plus became popular as the country’s biggest barbecue and shabu-shabu chain, offering a buffet style of these prominent dishes. Munch as many barbecue and shabu-shabu as you want and eat your heart out.

Tong Yang Plus Cebu (3)
Tong Yang Plus Cebu (1)

It is also a gastronomic adventure. Like their concept of fusion, Tong Yang Plus allows you to mix and add your favourites to your own shabu-shabu bowl. You can choose a soup base, a selection of ingredients from the wide array of meats, vegetables and noodles

These are best enjoyed with friends and loved ones as you take a bite with tons of the grilling options – lean cuts of pork, chicken, beef, seafood, sausages, offal and many more.

Tong Yang Plus Cebu (5)
Tong Yang Plus Cebu (9)

Other than barbecue and shabu-shabu, Tong Yang also offers short orders such as Japanese Tempura, dimsum and sushi rolls.

Tong Yang Plus Cebu (7)

Of course, desserts. With a dedicated dessert station, your sweet tooth craving will ultimately be fulfilled with the kakanin, cakes, mousse and even the halo-halo.

Tong Yang Plus Cebu (8)

Rates & Other Information

Rates:

  • Weekdays Lunch: ₱538 + 5% service charge
  • Weekdays Dinner, Weekends Lunch & Dinner, Holidays: ₱638 + 5% service charge
  • Kids below 3FT: FREE
  • Kids 3FT-4FT: ₱178 + 5% service charge
  • Kids 4FT above: ₱348 + 5% service charge

OPENING HOURS:

  • Mondays to Fridays
    • Lunch: 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
    • Dinner: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm 
  • Saturdays and Sundays
    • Lunch: 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
    • Dinner: 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm 

Other Information:

  • Contact numbers: (032) 234 1888, (032) 234 2888
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Lower Ground Floor, Seaview Wing, SM Seaside City Cebu, South Road Properties, Cebu City.

BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena. Or ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall. Check the routes & schedules here: https://sugbo.ph/2016/cebu-mybus-guide/

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu”. Parking space is free.

3 Paw-fect Dog Boarding Hotels in Cebu

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dog hotels in cebu

They say that dogs are a man’s best friend, and like all our (human) best friends, we should treat them with something special to show how much they mean to us.

And what good way can we show our furry BFF’s our love and care? Taking them to these dog hotels that are ready to pamper them, of course.

1. The Dog Spa & Hotel

This dog hotel is definitely one of the nicest places for your doggies to hang out in. Most of their rooms are air-conditioned but customers also have the option to avail of the non-AC rooms. Also, their staff is more than ready to groom and pamper your beloved pet.

Rates:

  • Location: Mahogany Place, Pope John Paul II Ave. It is right across the San Carlos Seminary beside the IEC Convention Center.
  • Contact number: 0917-142-2355
  • Social: Facebook Page

2. Puffy Paws Haven

Filled with cute and colorful cages, your pet dog will surely love this place. Puffy Paws Heaven is not only a dog hotel but also a grooming saloon for your dogs. The place provides a friendly ambience, making your pets relax comfortably.

Rates:

  • P250 per night on pet boarding. Owners are advised to bring their pets’ personal items such as pillows, toys and food bowls.

Other Information:

  • Branches:
    • J Centre in A.S. Fortuna, Mandaue City
    • Insular Square Mandaue
    • JY Square Mall
    • South Town Square
  • Contact number: (032) 514 9050
  • Social: Facebook Page

3. Shihpomapoo Dog Hotel

This dog hotel provides that accommodating ambience that your beloved pet will surely love. At a reasonable price, your lovely pet will surely have that much-deserved relaxing treatment.

Rates:

  • ₱250 per night for small dogs and ₱300 for the bigger ones. Owners should prepare the food of their dogs as the rates are not inclusive of the food. They also have a promo if the dog stays for more than 5 days, there’s free bath and for more than 10 days, there’s also free grooming.

Other Information:

  • Location: Main branch: #3 Camia Street, Camella Homes, Lapu-Lapu City. They have a dropping branch in N. Bacalso Ave. beside Autoworld where they can take your pets to their main branch in Lapu-Lapu.
  • Contact number: 0917-546-3340
  • Social: Facebook Page

Who’s a good boy? Your dog, that’s who! So go on and take them to these dog hotels because they deserve it!

Mt. Lanaya: The toughest mountain to climb in Alegria

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1mt lanaya alegria cebu

Life is too short to settle in your shell.

Challenge yourself to this interesting mountain in Brgy. Legaspi, Alegria, Cebu. The Mt. Lanaya highland is hailed as the most difficult to trek according to many mountaineers because of its steep slope and landfill pattern naturally possessed by the valley.

Mt. Lanaya is around 700 meters above sea level to the point that the panoramic view of the vast ocean and the mountains of Negros Province can be effortlessly observed.

Marc Jonell Garcia
mt-lanaya-alegria-cebu3
Cla Limbaga
mt-lanaya-alegria-cebu4
Cla Limbaga

There are two trails you can take if you want to reach Mt. Lanaya. First is the Lumpan trail which is approximately a two-hour trek depending on your pace. The other is the Legaspi trail which is approximately a four-hour trek.

One view from Mt. Lanaya looks similar to a popular wallpaper on Windows XP (and old operating system). It can be visually spotted at the foot of Mt. Lanaya and it will take only about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace.

Get ready to sweat a lot and hear your leg muscles complain.

TRAVEL TIPS

  • Weather check before the trip.
  • Arrange trek with the Barangay Legaspi officials.
  • Your motorcycle driver can be your guide, be kind to them.
  • Wear arm sleeves and leg sleeves for protection against scratches from bushes or twigs.
  • Leave your bags at the campsite.
  • Bring a reliable 3-season tent, sleeping bag, flashlight, power bank, dry bag for your gadgets, and jacket for the camping.
  • Bring two to three liters of water supply per person.
  • Clean as you go and be kind to the mountain.

ESTIMATED TRAVEL EXPENSE

  • Fare Cebu to Alegria & vice versa: ₱310
  • Fare Alegria to Lumpan & vice versa: ₱100
  • Entrance fee: None
  • Tour guide: ₱100
  • Food: ₱150
  • TOTAL: ₱710

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Tour Guide Fee: ₱500 per 5pax
  • Allow camping? Yes
  • Contact numbers: 0955-964-4414 / 0997-472-3231

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Barangay Legaspi, Alegria, Southwestern Cebu — 3 hours away from the city.

BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Bato, Samboan, or any bus going southwest Alegria. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Alegria town proper. Fare is ₱155 (one way). From the town proper, you can either take a habal-habal (motorcycle) going to Barangay Lumpan or if you have enough time and want to try the challenging Legaspi trail, proceed to Barangay Legaspi.

BY CAR: If you’re driving your own car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Barangay Legaspi, Alegria, Cebu” or refer to the map below. Park your car at your own risk within the town.