Great architecture! [CEBU CITY Philippines]…read more It was a rainy day in Cebu when we visited this heritage monument. We hired a driver for a few hours to take me and my Mom to a few sightseeing places and highlights around the town. This was our first time in Cebu. The Cebu Heritage Monument was a recommended must see. Entrance is free to the public but donations were accepted. The monument is a famous sculpture and tourist attraction that portrays notable events and personalities in the history of Cebu. The detail of the sculptures were amazing and the warriors look impressively fierce. It was raining lightly, no crowds, which was nice. We had the monument to ourselves. The monument is located in the heart of the city and easily accessible. It is a tourist spot so expect street vendors after you. They are everywhere especially where there is a lot of tourist foot traffic. Here we encountered a lot of vendors selling handmade jewelry. Review #3344

It's a brilliant idea, really…read more A sculpture depicting important historical events that occurred in Cebu, from the time of Rajah Humabon to most recently, the beatification of Pedro Calungsod. In between those eras include a depiction of battle of Mactan and the inauguration of Sergio Osmena Jr. And then tons more! There is a lot to look at and learn from this structure. It took about three years from beginning of construction to completion. There's a lot of passion put in this structure. It truly is a sight to see. It doesn't cost anything to see it, but donations are welcome. Parking is an issue since it's located in the middle of the street. Tons of vendors as well, so prep for that. One of those things to see when in Cebu. If you're gonna be around, might as well make a stop and add it on to the "things to see" list.

Historic Site [CEBU CITY Philippines]…read more Unfortunately, Mom and I weren't able to finish this self-guided tour because of all the walking we already did earlier in the day from the other sightseeing locations but we managed to see a few of the sites. At the entrance were photos documenting the history of the fort. I found this interesting and informative. This was also where we paid a minimal admission charge. Entrance fee is 30 pesos (about $0.50 cents). Fort San Pedro is the oldest military structure in the Philippines. It is also the smallest fort (not as big is Intramuros in Manila) yet it is one of the most famous heritage sites in Cebu. It served as an army base in the early 17th century built by a Spanish conqueror some 50 years after Magellan first landed. The large stone walls and massive canons are impressive and can be found inside. The fort is located in the downtown area of Cebu, inside the popular nature park, Plaza Independencia. Wishes we had more time to visit the entire area. Review #3347

If your a history buff, make sure to visit Fort San Pedro. It's an interesting view of Cebu…read morehistory and this triangular fort. Make sure you come here with a guide as it's more informative when you have a guide. Canons still work it's cleaned and if you can find a small canon that fits. The wood walls were replaced cobble stones and other materials. There seems to be ghosts on the top floor over the entrance as it was a prison. This place I heard can even rent for event or weddings. Interesting place. I would recommend a visit if you are in Cebu. [11/100]

This is a must stop when you're in this beautiful city of Cebu…read more It is what it says it is: Ferdinand Magellan of Spain planted a cross in Sugbu (now better known as Cebu) on April 1521 marking the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines. (Well... that's the short story version of it.) But keep in mind this is a replica. There's a rumor that the original has been encased to protect it from people chipping away from it believing it has miraculous powers. Others say the original has been completely destroyed. Either way, it's still a historical site to visit. And if you've come this far, might as well make a stop at the Basilica del Santo Nino which is a few feet away. This site is not open 24 hours a day. They do close the gates at 6pm. Parking can also be a challenge. Plan accordingly.

Religious Landmark [CEBU CITY Philippines]…read more A landmark not very big but is a big part of the Philippine history. The cross is housed in a small octagon-shaped pavilion which locals called the "kiosk" and is located across the Cebu City Hall. The cross is actually a replica of the original that was destroyed a long time ago and no longer exist. Brief history: Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese sailor, landed in the Island of Cebu in the Philippines in 1521. He worked for the King of Spain. Upon landing in Cebu he befriended the then chieftain of Cebu and was able to persuade the chief and his wife to accept Christianity. To celebrate this historic occasion of the spreading of the Roman Catholic faith in the Philippines Magellan planted a wooden cross on Cebu's shores and ever since then the cross has been known as Magellan's Cross. It was a quick visit because finding parking in this area is challenging so our driver just circled the block until we were done with our visit. There is no admission fee. Go anytime. Magellan's Cross is open to the public everyday from 8:00a to 6:00p. The cross stood on a pedestal with a mural in the ceiling of the chapel. There were several women vendors in yellow blouse and red skirt selling candles and will randomly approach visitors. The candles were placed on the foot of the pedestal of the cross. Review #3338

This museum is not that big, but it packs a lot of history. My favorite was during The World War…read moreII. I didn't know that the Filipinos had briefly used Japanese currency. Their new "Rice of Gods" room was amazing. Our tour guide mentioned a private donor from a Filipino philanthropist, donated everything in the room to share the history of Cebu. We were also educated that Museo Gugbo was originally a prison. There were still marks of prisoners name and other carvings during that era. One highlight that was also a favorite of mine was the walk of fame wall where all the past Presidents of the Philippines were hung in portrait paintings. Next to their portraits shares a brief history of their life and accomplishments during their time in office. I highly recommend if you have time during your visit to Cebu City, pay a visit here. You will learn a great deal about Philippine history and the native tribes of Cebu. Cheers!

Located on m.j cuenco ave., if coming from the colon area, it'll be on the right side…read more There is a street right before you see the front entrance to the museum (again coming from colon), make the turn and you'll see a gate to the left. Honk your horn if its closed and security will open the gates to lead you towards the parking area. Parking appeared to be limited maybe good for 5-6 vehicles. I'm not sure if they have other areas to park as there seem to be a narrow alley, ahead of the pebbled parking area, that possibly can accomodate one more vehicle. Parking is free. We went about 3:00 pm-ish and there weren't many people there. You make your way towards the front of the museum to pay the entrance fee (locals paid 30 pesos and I believe it was 75 pesos for foreigners. They also have discounts for senior citizens and students). So you go pass the gazebo structure from the parking lot, then cross the courtyard towards a fountain. Someone at a small desk will point you in the direction to where you make the payment then politely ask you to sign a guest book. Then you make your way around. You may opt for a guide (which we were told was free of charge) but we decided to explore the museum ourselves. There will be 4 areas where there is air conditioning, and ends after the world war 2 exhibit. There are interesting excerpts from history as well as artifacts. I particularly found the world war 2 area most interesting, though I wish there were more artifacts and maybe some interactive activites that can really immerse someone during that time in history. After leaving the world war 2 exhibit you head down a steep stairway, if you are tall be careful of the overhead. I consider myself short and even then I felt as if I was gonna bump my head. So be careful. The courtyard was spacious. There are a couple more exhibits around the courtyard that include maps and blue prints of various structures, cities and different islands in the Philippines. As previously stated, wish there were more artifacts to see and maybe an activity or two. However, what was displayed was informative and left me wanting to learn more about the Philippines and Cebu's history. Thank you for having a musem such as this to introduce us to Cebu's history. (tip: they allow you to take pictures, but without flash)

The Philippines can get very hot! When we are in Cebu and we want to cool off, we sometimes head…read moreup to Tops Lookout. It has changed over the years. The last time we were there was February 2024. It was super busy the day we went, but we eventually found parking. There was an entrance fee of 100 Philippine Pesos per person. The equivalent of about $2 USD. A fair price. I'm guessing it goes towards all the construction and renovation that they were doing to the place at that time. The views from Tops are still wonderful. Does not matter if you are there during the day or during the evening, you will still be treated with a magnificent view. Pictures do not do it justice. By now, construction must be finished. I believe they were working on adding restaurants and a hotel to Tops Lookout. The observation deck was also to be expanded to a 360 degree view of Cebu City! Look forward to returning in the near future! It is literally a COOL spot in Cebu!!

In our last night in Cebu City - TOPS Lookout was our final destination! It was breathtaking…read more While we weren't able to see much since we came here after dark, the view of Cebu City was the icing on our cake. It reminded me of Twin Peaks in San Francisco when all the lights are lit up, it's magical! There's a couple of places to eat here including a "Tops Cafe" where I had a delicious freshly made Americano, from a lovely and super nice Barista! There are plenty of seating area (all outdoors) around the plaza of Tops Lookout, and on the evening we drove up here, it was truly spectacular. Weather was in the high 60's F (15 Celsius), cool breeze, clear sky, and we were able to see the whole view of Cebu City. If you do make it to Cebu, make sure you come up here to get a Birdseye view of the city day or night! It is truly breathtaking! Cheers!

The Yap-SanDeigo is one of the oldest houses to survive many natural disasters in the Philippine…read moreIslands. The oldest house to our surprise, the "1930 Jesuit House" is also located in Cebu City. We took the private tour and he did a fantastic job sharing the history of the home. Our guide shared that the Yap family have owned this home since the 1760's during the Spanish era. I am amaze how much history Cebu has. The house still stands today, much remains original including the stairs and the wood planks on the second floor. I suggest you take this tour if you are planning on visiting Cebu City. Truly a landmark for Cebu City. Cheers!

The tour guide is exceptionally helpful and will take a ton of family pics. Fun, educational, and a…read moremust for tourists. Bring some change for the guitarists inside.

THE BIG: Tourist attraction monument made to honor the first treaty between the Philippines and…read moreSpain. Also on the site is a big "I heart Tagbilaran" sign. THE BLACK AND WHITE: Apparently the site where the monument was built is where the Spanish and Filipino leaders performed a blood compact to seal their friendship. A blood compact is where each party would cut their hands and pour blood into a cup filled with wine and drink the mixture. The monument is crowded and usually part of a Bohol tour. You can spend a max of 15 mins there and head on your way. Otherwise nothing too fancy to look at. THE FINAL BAMBOO: Free monument that is part of a tour guide. Tons of people around so you'll be queueing for a photo but it is a significant historic place.

The Minor Basilica of the Holy Infant Child of Cebu or Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu is an…read moreiconic worship and heritage symbol of the spiritual resilience of the Cebuanos (people) that dates back since the arrival of the Spanish colonizers in the 1500s. The church is characterized by the building which dates back to the 1500s or perhaps earlier and still showcases the charms and beauty of the iconic Blessed Holy Infant Jesus Statue that is revered to be the original gift to the people of Cebu. As you enter the church, the pews are still the original narrative and acacia furnitures and wooden blocks harvested from this locality and reminds us of Spain's hold to this city and nation as one of its prized colonies in the early 1400s. Cebuanos in general are kind, hospitable and respectful and the city is considered to be one of the earliest and iconic tourist spots in the Philippines. This city has all of the beauty of an old city including the Magellan's Cross and other symbolic icons that tells a story of the past and present... I attended their early mass in the morning and reverently observed that everyone was alert and participatory in the liturgical process and sacraments. The Mass was in Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines and was a beautiful experience for us to witness the beauty of the Catholic Church.

Home of the original and oldest religious relic in the Philippines [CEBU CITY Philippines]…read more We got lost a little but main entrance is on Osmeña Boulevard. We entered through security check and I was given a piece of clothing to wrap around my shorts out of respect. Dress conservatively and cover shoulders and legs above the knees. Commonly known as Santo Niño Basilica the church can be found in the same vicinity as the Magellan's Cross pavilion. Our visit was on a Tuesday and the church had a lot of visitors, weird how there were not many people that were actually inside the church but all around the surrounding area like the chapel and the hallways. Several women vendors in yellow blouse and red skirt were selling candles outside the church and will randomly approach visitors. The candles are placed inside the church, I'm not sure exactly where. Review #3346

BEAUTY of a Catholic Church!! It is also known as St. James the Apostle Parish Church. I believe…read moreit was built in the year 1866. We always attend mass here whenever we visit the town of Compostela on the island of Cebu in the Philippines. A great place to worship and give thanks!!

Everytime I come here this shrine just keeps getting bigger and bigger. The construction here is…read morealways ongoing and the place gets beautiful every time. However it also means it just keeps getting crowded as well. It was mostly just locals here but of course, news has spread about this miraculous shrine and people flock to see it and offer prayers of their own. On our recent visit back in July 2022, indoor visitation was still cancelled because of renovations but before that we used to join the queue to see the image of the Virgin of Simala. While waiting you can see letters of requests displayed in glass cases but my favorite is the display for "Prayers granted". You can see there devotees leaving items such as a medal, graduation pins, even crutches. It was amazing really - To know that prayers are heard and answered and there are so many people out there that had been blessed. I just hope this place will continue to remain sacred and a place of prayer and not become just a tourist attraction. I dont think it will but you'll never know. Come visit Simala shrine if you havent! Oh and please wear conservative clothing (no shorts, sleeveless, body fitting clothes, tank tops etc) otherwise you wont be let in, unless you have something to cover yourself up.

Simala Shrine on Cebu Island in the Philippine is a very sacred and religious site. It is a place…read moreto pray and give thanks. If you are a tourist, then there are many photo opps. The shrine is beautiful, and the architectural design is impressive. Some exterior areas of Simala Shrine look like a castle. Simply gorgeous. I did not take any pictures inside the Shrine. Our purpose for coming was to visit Mama Mary, give thanks, and pray!! AMEN!!!