Cebu is a province in the Philippines that consists of Cebu Island and 167 other islands in the nearby vicinity. Cebu is a dream come true for many travelers, being a tropical island with balmy weather, some of the world's very best beaches, clear blue water and luxurious resorts that have a touch of luxury. Throughout Cebu boutique hotels regularly deliver a first class standard of service that is difficult to beat anywhere across the globe.
Right across Cebu boutique hotels offer sumptuous hotel rooms, fantastic resort facilities for leisure oriented guests and fine dining in the hotel restaurant at night. The only problem you will encounter will be tearing yourself away from the hotel for long enough to see some of the local sights.
Cebu is one of the most densely populated islands in the Philippines and has had an interesting past, having been involved in both the Spanish American War and the Philippine American War, before briefly falling under American rule. Since 1937, however, it has been a charter province, governed independently by Filipino politicians, although the island did serve as a Japanese base during their occupation in World War II.
Mactan Cebu International Airport has regular, direct flights to Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Japan and Qatar, so getting to your little slice of paradise does not need to be a long and painful journey. You could also choose to arrive by boat and the International Port is one of the largest shipping hubs in the local region.
The island has sometimes been dubbed as the 'Island of Festivals' due to the number and variety of festivals celebrated on the island throughout the year. Most of these celebrations are traditional religious events, the most important of which is Sinulog. Celebrated on the third Sunday of January, this well supported feast is held in tribute to the patron saint, Senor Santo Nino de Cebu and the coming of Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer, to the Philippines.
Macatan Island is known as the 'diving Mecca of the south' and is a coral island full of deluxe beach resorts. Visitors staying in the region can take advantage of courses run by local diving schools or if they are already proficient divers, can simply make the most of the perfect diving conditions that abound. Bantayan Island, meanwhile, has become famous for its jaw dropping coral reefs and white sandy beaches. The coastal area here is ideal for both swimming and snorkeling and the views out to sea are simply amazing. If island hopping is an idea that appeals to you, hiring a motorized outrigger boat is an easy way to see as many islands as possible and savor the various things that make each individual island special in its own unique way.
The Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary is an extensive area of mangroves, sand flats, sea grass beds and coral reefs lying off shore. The island's mangroves are particularly noteworthy and are home to a vast array of different marine species. Olango Island is also one of the top seven worldwide flyways for migrating birds so keen bird enthusiasts are in for a real treat. The birds use Olango as their main point to rest during their journeys to Australia and New Zealand. Frequently spotted species of note include Chinese Egrets, Asiatic Dowitchers, Eastern Curlews and Sandpipers.
Nature lovers are really in for a treat since the area also plays host to the Nalusan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary. It is 30 minutes away by pump boat from Mactan Island and plays a vital role in the preservation of marine species and other treasures of the sea. The island is also blessed with long stretches of fine white beaches and relaxing here in the cool sea breeze is just about as good as it gets.
If you prefer your vacation to focus more on visiting historical landmarks then you will not be disappointed either. The Fort San Pedro is a great place to start, as it's the smallest and oldest Spanish fort in the country. It was built in 1565 by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and served as the core of the Spanish settlement in the Philippines.
So, whether you want to find out more about this region's colonial past, view nature at its best, or just relax on a sandy beach, these beautiful islands are to die for.
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