Philippines (The Hidden Gem Of Asia) - Part 2
Cebu City, often referred to as the “Queen City of the South,” is a vibrant and bustling metropolis located in the central part of the Philippines. It is the capital city of Cebu province and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and modern urban developments. Here’s what we did in this beautiful place.
Balay Sa Busay :
We decided to have our lunch at Balay Sa Busay. The restaurant is perched atop the mountains, providing stunning views of Cebu City and its surroundings. As you dine, you can admire the sweeping vistas of lush greenery, rolling hills, and the city skyline. The expansive outdoor seating area allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. The restaurant is designed with a rustic charm that blends harmoniously with the natural environment. The open-air setting allows a gentle breeze to flow through, creating a cool and inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose to dine on the terrace or inside the cozy dining area, you’ll be immersed in a relaxing ambiance that enhances your dining experience.
Balay Sa Busay offers a menu of authentic Filipino dishes that celebrate the rich flavors and culinary heritage of the Philippines. From traditional favorites like adobo, sinigang, and lechon to regional specialties, you’ll find a range of dishes that showcase the diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine. Fresh and locally sourced ingredients are used to create delicious and satisfying meals. The place is known for its signature dishes that have gained popularity among locals and tourists alike.
These dishes often feature a unique twist or innovative presentation, adding an element of surprise to your dining experience. Be sure to try their specialties, such as crispy pata (deep-fried pork knuckles), kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), or their selection of grilled seafood. After your meal, you can take some time to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Balay Sa Busay offers cozy seating areas and outdoor lounges where you can savor a cup of coffee or indulge in their delectable desserts. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, take in the breathtaking views, and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Our lunch at Balay Sa Busay was a perfect blend of delectable food, spectacular views, and filled with serene ambiance. It’s a place where you can indulge in authentic Filipino flavors while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Cebu.
Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler, a visit to Balay Sa Busay promises a memorable dining experience that will leave you with a sense of relaxation and contentment.
Sirao Pictorial Garden :
Sirao Pictorial Garden, also known as Sirao Flower Farm or the “Little Amsterdam of Cebu,” is a popular attraction located in the mountains of Busay. It is renowned for its vibrant flower fields and picturesque landscapes, offering visitors a delightful and colorful experience. The main highlight of Sirao Pictorial Garden is its stunning flower fields that burst with vibrant colors. You’ll find a variety of flowers, including celosia (cockscomb), sunflowers, chrysanthemums, and various seasonal blooms. The fields create a vibrant and picturesque backdrop, perfect for taking memorable photos and capturing the beauty of nature.
The place is a haven for photography enthusiasts and social media enthusiasts. The garden features numerous photogenic spots, such as flower arches, heart-shaped floral installations, and decorative windmills. These areas are designed to provide picture-perfect backgrounds that are sure to enhance your photos. As you explore the flower farm, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Cebu City, the neighboring hills, and even catch a glimpse of the distant sea.
The combination of colorful flowers and sweeping views creates a truly enchanting experience. Aside from admiring the flowers, Sirao Pictorial Garden offers additional activities for visitors to enjoy. You can rent traditional Filipino costumes and dress up for a fun photo shoot amidst the colorful blooms. There are also swings and other photo props available, adding an element of playfulness and creativity to your visit.
Within the garden premises, you’ll find small food stalls and refreshment stands where you can grab a snack or a refreshing drink. You can savor local delicacies or enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. It’s a perfect opportunity to take a break and relax amidst the beauty of the garden. Sirao Pictorial Garden sometimes hosts special events and festivals during peak seasons. For example, during the Panagbenga Festival (Flower Festival) in February, the garden comes alive with additional flower displays, cultural performances, and other festive activities. These events add an extra layer of excitement and celebration to your visit.
Sirao Pictorial Garden offers a delightful escape from the bustling city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a colorful and picturesque natural setting. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene and beautiful place to unwind, this garden is a must-visit attraction in Cebu City.
Temple of Leah :
The Temple of Leah is a fascinating attraction located in Busay, Cebu City. It is a grandiose structure built as a tribute to love and is often referred to as “Cebu’s Taj Mahal.”
The Temple of Leah was built as a symbol of undying love and devotion. It was constructed by Teodorico Adarna, a wealthy Cebuano businessman, in honor of his late wife, Leah Albino-Adarna. The temple stands as a testament to their enduring love and celebrates Leah’s legacy.
The temple is an architectural marvel that blends various design elements and influences. The structure draws inspiration from Roman and Greek architecture, with its grand columns, intricate carvings, and imposing statues. The temple’s facade features ornate details and intricate reliefs, making it a visually stunning sight. The Temple is not just a single building; it is a complex comprising multiple structures and areas. The main building houses a museum that showcases personal memorabilia, artifacts, and mementos from Leah’s life. There are also several halls and rooms filled with sculptures, paintings, and other artworks.
Perched on a hill, the Temple of Leah offers panoramic views of Cebu City and the surrounding mountains. From various vantage points within the complex, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and the vast expanse of nature. It’s a great spot to take in the beauty of Cebu while appreciating the grandeur of the temple.
Throughout the temple complex, you’ll find numerous statues and sculptures that hold symbolic meanings. These include figures from Greek mythology, religious icons, and representations of love and family. Each statue tells a story and adds to the overall ambiance and theme of the temple. The Temple provides a serene and peaceful environment for visitors. The well-manicured gardens, fountains, and outdoor seating areas allow you to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. It’s a place where you can reflect, find solace, and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.
Visiting the Temple of Leah is not only an opportunity to marvel at its architectural beauty but also a chance to appreciate the story of enduring love and devotion behind its creation.
It’s a place that invites contemplation, offers picturesque views, and allows you to immerse yourself in art and culture.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply seeking a unique and meaningful experience in Cebu City, the Temple of Leah is definitely worth a visit.
Ayala Mall (Cebu) :
Ayala mall offers a wide range of shopping options, featuring local and international brands. The mall houses a variety of retail stores, from fashion boutiques and accessories shops to electronics, home decor, and more. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion or affordable finds, Ayala mall has something to suit every style and budget.
The mall boasts an extensive selection of dining options, ranging from fast-food chains to upscale restaurants and cafes. You can find cuisines from all around the world, including Filipino, Asian, Western, and more.
Whether you’re craving local delicacies, international dishes, or a quick snack, Ayala mall offers a diverse culinary experience. The mall is not just a shopping destination but also a hub for entertainment. It houses a modern cinema complex, featuring the latest movies from local and international studios. Additionally, the mall often hosts live performances, music events, and other cultural activities, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.
The mall is also home to various wellness and beauty establishments. You can find spas, salons, fitness centers, and wellness clinics where you can pamper yourself and indulge in self-care. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a fitness workout, Ayala mall has options to help you unwind and take care of your well-being.
The mall frequently hosts special events, exhibitions, and seasonal celebrations. These events range from fashion shows and art exhibits to food festivals and holiday-themed activities. The mall also creates a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere, offering visitors unique experiences and opportunities to engage with the local community.
Ayala mall is not just a shopping mall but a lifestyle destination that offers a comprehensive retail, dining, and entertainment experience. Whether you’re looking to shop for the latest fashion trends, enjoy a delicious meal, catch a movie, or simply spend a leisurely day exploring, Ayala mall has everything you need in one convenient location.
House of Lechon :
The House of Lechon is a popular restaurant in Cebu City, known for its mouthwatering lechon, a traditional Filipino roasted pig dish. The lechon is prepared using a traditional cooking method that involves roasting a whole pig over an open fire, resulting in crispy skin and succulent meat. It is a must-try dish when visiting Cebu, and the House of Lechon is known for serving some of the best in the city.
While lechon is the star of the show at the House of Lechon, the restaurant also offers a diverse menu featuring other delicious Filipino dishes. From classic Filipino favorites like adobo (marinated meat), sinigang (sour soup), and kinilaw (raw seafood salad) to regional specialties, there’s a wide range of options to satisfy different palates.
The restaurant provides a warm and cozy ambiance, creating a comfortable dining experience for guests. The restaurant’s interiors are tastefully decorated, showcasing Filipino-inspired elements and traditional touches. It’s a great place to enjoy a casual meal with friends and family or celebrate special occasions.
They also offer takeout services, allowing you to enjoy their delicious dishes at home or wherever you prefer. They also provide catering services for events and special occasions, making it convenient to enjoy their mouthwatering lechon and other Filipino specialties at your own gatherings.
This place has a small souvenir shop where you can purchase local products, delicacies, and souvenirs to bring back home. It’s a great opportunity to take a piece of Cebu’s culinary heritage with you and share the flavors of the Philippines with your loved ones.
If you’re a food lover visiting Cebu City, the House of Lechon is a must-visit destination to indulge in the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, particularly their delectable lechon.
With its cozy ambiance, friendly service, and a menu that showcases the best of Filipino gastronomy, the House of Lechon offers an authentic and memorable dining experience in the heart of Cebu.
Dessert At Sugbo Mercado :
Sugbo Mercado is a popular food market known for its wide variety of food stalls offering different cuisines and delectable treats. When it comes to desserts, Sugbo Mercado has a range of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
You can find classics like halo-halo, a refreshing dessert made with crushed ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, and topped with evaporated milk and leche flan. Other Filipino treats like bibingka (rice cake), puto bumbong (purple sticky rice delicacy), and turon (banana spring rolls) are also available.
If you’re craving something cold and creamy, look out for the ice cream and gelato stalls at Sugbo Mercado. You can find a variety of flavors to choose from, ranging from classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to more unique and exotic options.
Enjoy your scoop of ice cream or gelato in a cone or cup, or even have it topped with sprinkles, nuts, or sauces.
The place also allows you to Indulge in freshly made churros or Belgian waffles. These treats are often served hot and accompanied by different dips and toppings. Whether you prefer your churros coated in cinnamon sugar or dipped in chocolate sauce, or you like your waffles drizzled with syrup and adorned with fruit, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
We also tried their iconic dish, shaved ice desserts, such as bingsu or halo-halo. These desserts typically consist of shaved ice topped with an assortment of sweet ingredients like fruits, beans, jellies, and condensed milk. You can customize your dessert by selecting your favorite toppings and flavors, creating a refreshing and delightful treat. For a healthier dessert option, I will recommend trying the fresh fruit shakes. You can enjoy a variety of fruit flavors, such as mango, watermelon, avocado, and more. These shakes are made with fresh fruits and blended to perfection, offering a refreshing and nutritious treat.
Sugbo Mercado provides a vibrant and diverse culinary experience, including a wide range of dessert options. Whether you have a craving for Filipino sweets, ice cream, pastries, or other sweet delights, you’ll find something to satisfy your dessert cravings at Sugbo Mercado. Don’t forget to explore the market and discover new and exciting flavors during your visit!
Here are some extra images from our trip.
