Philippines (Cebu)

The Philippines is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, renowned for its stunning tropical landscapes, crystal-clear waters, vibrant culture, and some of the friendliest people in the world. Situated in Southeast Asia, this diverse nation offers an incredible mix of pristine beaches, bustling cities, rich history, and unforgettable island adventures. Our first experience of the Philippines was through Cebu, a vibrant island province that perfectly introduced us to the country’s beautiful coastlines, thriving marine life, delicious food, and laid-back island atmosphere.

From the white sands and turquoise waters of Cebu and nearby islands to the dramatic rice terraces of Luzon and the paradise-like lagoons of Palawan, the Philippines offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re interested in island hopping, snorkelling and diving, chasing waterfalls, hiking volcanoes, exploring colonial towns, experiencing vibrant city life, or simply relaxing on world-class beaches, there’s no shortage of adventures to be found. Combined with its fascinating blend of indigenous traditions, Spanish colonial heritage, American influences, and modern Filipino culture, as well as the warmth and hospitality of its people, the Philippines delivers an unforgettable travel experience that goes far beyond a typical tropical getaway.

Best time to visit

Peak: Dec–May | Sunny and dry (25–33°C)

Quieter: Jun & Nov | Occasional rain, fewer crowds

Less Ideal: Jul–Oct | Wet season, higher chance of storms

We visited Cebu in March While it can get hot during the day, the sunny conditions were perfect for beach days, snorkelling, and all the water activities we had planned.

Currency

Philippine Peso (PHP)
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, malls, restaurants, and larger establishments in Cebu. However, cash is more useful for smaller shops, local eateries, market stalls, and for activities especially for tipping guides and when you are travelling in a group.
We used a combination of card and cash during our trip.

Language

Cebuano is the main language spoken in Cebu, although Tagalog and English are widely spoken throughout the island.

English proficiency is high, making Cebu one of the easiest destinations in Asia to navigate independently.

Major Places to Visit

Cebu City, Mactan Island, Moalboal, Oslob, Kawasan Falls, Sumilon Island, Bantayan Island, Malapascua Island, Camotes Islands, Temple of Leah, and Sirao Garden.

Don’t miss: The Sardine Run in Moalboal, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, swimming with whale shark in Oslob, and a visit to the stunning sandbar/snorkelling at Sumilon Island.

Must Try Food

Lechon (Cebu’s famous roast pig and often considered the best in the Philippines), Puso (rice cooked in woven coconut leaves), Adobo (meat braised in soy sauce, vinegar, and spices), Chicken Inasal (grilled marinated chicken), Sinigang (a tangy sour soup), Lumpia (Filipino spring rolls), Fresh Seafood, Halo-Halo (a colourful shaved ice dessert), and Cebu’s famous dried mangoes.

Note: Traditional Filipino cuisine is quite meat-based, particularly outside major tourist areas. Halal options are growing, but some pre-planning is recommended.

Getting Around

Grab: The easiest way to get around Cebu City and Mactan.
Taxi: Widely available and affordable but Grab is ideal.
Buses & Vans: Budget-friendly for exploring the island, including Moalboal and Oslob.
Ferries: Connect Cebu to nearby islands such as Bohol, Negros, and Siquijor.
Flights: Cebu is a major hub with domestic and international connections.
Motorbike & Car Rental: Great for travellers wanting more flexibility.
Note: We flew direct from Dubai to Cebu and rented a van, which gave us the freedom to explore the island at our own pace

Sim Card

Common Providers: Globe and Smart.
SIM cards are easy to purchase at the airport, shopping malls, convenience stores, and official provider stores. Each offers affordable tourist packages with generally good coverage across Cebu and the surrounding islands.

Note: We just got international data pack, and that was sufficient for a week.

Our Fun/Cultural Tip

If you’re from the UAE, you’re probably already familiar with Filipino warmth and hospitality. Travelling in Cebu felt a little like being in Dubai, but with breathtaking island views.

And YES, Filipinos love music, and you’ll hear karaoke almost everywhere, at any time of day!

“The Philippines sits within the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions on Earth and home to incredible wildlife, including whale sharks.”

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Top Travel FAQs: Philippines & Cebu

Is Cebu worth visiting?

Yes, Cebu is one of the most diverse destinations in the Philippines. It offers a mix of adventure, beaches, waterfalls, and marine life experiences, making it ideal for both first-time visitors and experienced travellers. Cebu is famous for whale sharks in Oslob, Kawasan Falls canyoneering, the Sardine Run in Moalboal, and nearby island destinations such as Sumilon and Bantayan Island. It is also known for Cebu lechon and its cultural heritage.

What is Filipino food like?

Filipino food is a mix of savoury, sweet, and sour flavours influenced by Spanish, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisine. It is heavily meat-based, especially pork, although chicken, beef, and seafood options are widely available. The food is generally not spicy, so travellers used to spicy Asian cuisines may find it milder but still comforting.

Is the Philippines halal friendly?

Halal options are available in major cities like Cebu and Manila, including a growing number of halal-certified restaurants and Muslim-friendly dining options. Traditional Filipino cuisine is generally not halal, so planning ahead is recommended, especially when visiting islands or rural areas. The Philippines is also expanding Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives in major destinations like Cebu and Manila.

Is the Philippines vegetarian friendly?

Vegetarian options exist but are limited in traditional Filipino cuisine, which is heavily meat and seafood-based. In cities like Cebu, travellers can still find rice dishes, vegetables, noodles, fruit, and international restaurants, but options become more limited outside urban areas. Some planning is required.

Does Cebu airport have WiFi upon landing?

Yes, Mactan-Cebu International Airport offers free WiFi for passengers upon arrival and throughout the terminal. You can connect without a local SIM, although the connection speed may vary during peak hours.

Do Indian passport holders need a visa to visit the Philippines?

Indian passport holders may be eligible for visa-free entry to the Philippines for up to 14 days. If you hold a valid visa or residence permit from countries such as the US, UK, Schengen area, Japan, Australia, Canada, or Singapore, you may be eligible for an extended visa-free stay of up to 30 days, subject to immigration approval.
All travellers are required to complete the mandatory Philippines eTravel registration form before arrival:

Entry requirements can change, so it is important to check the latest visa rules before travelling.

Is Cebu safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Cebu is generally safe for solo female travellers. Popular areas like Cebu City, Moalboal, and Oslob are well-visited by tourists. Standard precautions such as using trusted transport and avoiding isolated areas at night are recommended.

How expensive is a trip to the Philippines?

The main cost of a trip to the Philippines is usually the international flight (depending on your location, we travelled from DXB). Once there, travel is very affordable, especially for food and accommodation, and it is advisable to combine destinations such as Manila, Cebu, Palawan, and Boracay to maximise value.

Is Cebu expensive to visit?

Cebu is generally an affordable destination compared to many island getaways in Asia. Budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transport are widely available, while luxury resorts and private tours are also an option for higher-end travellers. During peak season, it is advisable to book accommodation early as good-value stays can sell out quickly.

What are the must-do activities in Cebu?

Top experiences include swimming with whale sharks in Oslob, snorkelling the Sardine Run in Moalboal, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, and island hopping to destinations like Sumilon or Bantayan Island.