JOIN ME IN AN INTERVIEW WITH MARVI OCAMPO FROM CEBU, PHILLIPINES !
Marvi is an Industrial Engineer from Cebu City, Philippines who now enjoys being a Mom and a travel blogger from Osmiva.com. She loves the beach and the outdoors and enjoys learning about history when she travels with her family.
Which is the best month to visit Cebu and why?
Cebu is in the Philippines which is a tropical country. Most months are sunny but we also experience typhoons especially from June onwards. Best months to visit Cebu will probably be February to May as it’s the summer season with plenty of sunshine outdoors.
Which is the most convenient and favoured transport of Cebu?
Cebu’s main transportation is the PUJ or the Public Utility Jeepney, but we do have buses, taxis, vans, tricycles and motorcycles to take you anywhere. It’s basically a fun way to get around and get lost around the city. LOL. Traffic can be really a headache as well as high taxi fares. Personally, I find taxis and the private buses (the Mybus in particular) pretty convenient.
What are the top 3 must visit places in Cebu?
Cebu is a religious and historical city in the country.
The three most popular places will be:
a. The Sto. Niño Church or the Basílica Minore del Santo Niño where patrons and devotees flock together to pay respects and offer prayers to Senior Sto. Niño (the Holy Child). The church is considered one of the oldest church in Cebu and by far one of the most popular. The church also plays a key role during the Sinulog Festival (celebrated every January) where masses, processions and novenas are held. The church is open for all so you can visit it anytime. Please pay attention to proper clothing and behaviour though as it is a sacred place. It is centrally located in the city so expect that most PUJ (the local way to get around) passes through here.
b. The Magellan’s Cross which is right beside the Sto. Niño Church. This symbolises the native’s acceptance to Christianity. It’s actually a single structure built near the Sto. Niño Church and the City Hall that is close to the Cebuanos’ heart. There are locals who sells candles near the Magellan’s Cross and will offer to pray for your intentions while dancing the ‘Sinulog’.
c. Fort San Pedro near the Cebu Port. It’s an old military defence structure that played a great role during the World War 1. The fort is also considered to be the smallest fort in the Philippines. There are applicable entrance fees before you can get inside and you’ll be able to glimpse on the history of Cebu and of the fort and how it came to be. Fort San Pedro is near the Cebu City Port so you can easily visit this place if you just arrived in the city.
Which is the most celebrated holiday of the year in Cebu?
Aside from the Christmas season, Cebu’s most celebrated holiday is the Sinulog Festival in honour of Sto. Niño and is held every January. It’s a month long celebration of music, dancing and songs.
Which is the most happening area in Cebu and why?
If you love to party, definitely head over to Mango Avenue in Cebu for the nightlife. If it’s more cultural, then Colon street is a must for you to feel the city vibe.
Where can one find amazing street food in Cebu?
Colon Street is home to a variety of street foods. But if you want a more formal set-up, head over to the Sugbo Mercado in Cebu I.T Park for a variety of affordable meals and snacks.
Where to head for affordable shopping in Cebu?
Definitely Carbon for authentic Cebu shopping experience!
Which is the most loved local food in Cebu, both sweet and savoury?
Hmmm.. There are plenty of favourite local food. But Cebu is really known for its crispy lechon (roasted pork). For summer season, halo-halo is a favourite with its sweet flavours.
Which side of the road does Cebu drive on? Is it cycle friendly?
We drive at the right side of the road. Unfortunately it’s not cycle friendly but there are still a lot of cyclists. You just have to pay attention to the traffic.
Would you recommend any popular local apps to tourists for transport, food and hidden gems in Cebu?
For transport, the ‘Grab’ app is a favourite while for food, the Food Panda app is a favourite.
