It's summertime in the city and we can't blame you for itching to jet off. Don't write this off as "delulu" just yet as you can actually explore IG-worthy sights and indulge in major R&R without spending mega bucks. The answer (or "solulu," if we're continuing with TikTok speak) lies in a perfectly planned, posh weekend trip to Cebu.
Why Cebu, you ask? Aside from being highly accessible, it ticks all the boxes for every kind of traveler. It's cosmopolitan yet it moves at a much relaxed pace. It offers beach and mountain escapes while providing creature comforts like ritzy resorts and luxury malls. It's all at once very international, yet very local at the same time, making for a truly one-of-a-kind destination that you can relax and indulge in.
Need ideas? Ahead, we've prepped everything you need to know for a quick yet chic summer weekend getaway in the Queen City of the South.
A Preview Girl's Summer Travel Guide to a Posh Weekend in Cebu
How to get to Cebu
Touted as one of the best airports in Southeast Asia, flying to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is a hassle-free and convenient experience with its well-connected network of domestic and international flights and compact yet well-appointed space. There are daily flights from commercial airlines such as Cebu Pacific and AirSwift, but if you're looking for a truly luxe way to fly, why not book a private air charter with Flight Club? It takes a little over an hour to get to Cebu from both Luzon's Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Mindanao's Davao International Airport, which is roughly the same time to get from Makati to Ortigas during rush hour—sweet!
What to do in Cebu
1. Explore the luxurious NUSTAR Resort and Casino
Whether you've managed to file a full day off or you're arriving in Cebu later in the day, starting your vacay with a visit to NUSTAR Resort and Casino will set the tone for the rest of your trip. Luxury stores with Cebu-exclusive bags and aesthetic dining options abound, on top of their world-class gaming and hotel facilities. The best part? They're open till late so you don't have to rush!
2. Indulge in a relaxing beach day
Who can say no to spending a full day at the beach? Unwind and catch up on vitamin sea by lounging with a book and a refreshing cocktail. For that, head on to Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan. You can turn to their weekend day use for P3,500, which comes with P3,000 worth of F&B credits. You can also check out Solea Mactan Resort for either a Day Pass valid from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or a Night Pass valid from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m. for P1,888 net.
3. Feast on a scrumptious meal
Cebu is known for its gastronomic dishes with lechon, chicharon, and even sizzling pochero as local must-haves. The culinary scene is just as strong on the international cuisine front with Michelin-starred chef-owned restaurant The Pig and Palm and the award-winning Mott 32 Chinese restaurant. They're go-to's for delicious bites and a sumptuous atmosphere.
4. Visit the Taj Mahal of Cebu
Did you know? There's a temple dedicated to Ellen Adarna's grandmother: the Temple of Leah. A staple in itineraries, the Greek-inspired structure is not only visually awe-inspiring, but it also carries a beautiful symbolic meaning. Much like the Taj Mahal in India, this now-tourist spot was originally built as a grand gesture for a loved one. With the attention to detail placed in constructing a beautiful and grand home for the Adarna matriarch's things, we promise you'll leave with a new IG photo or three.
5. Shop for exquisite, locally-made furniture
Looking to invest in designer furniture? We highly recommend supporting local! Immerse yourself in proudly Cebuano artistry and check out the fine craftsmanship of Kenneth Cobonpue, Vito Selma, and Obra Cebuana in the flesh by visiting their showrooms.
What to pack for a Cebu weekend trip
A black bikini
Chic and sexy, the classic two-piece will never go out of style.
Scoop Neck Top, $40 (approximately P2300); Classic Bottoms, $35 (approximately P2018) BLACKBOUGH, blackboughswim.com
A versatile dress
The right dress can effortlessly take you from day to night. Finding a breezy, printed mini-dress is key!
Short Printed Lace Neckline Dress, P2750, SPRINGFIELD, Available in One Ayala and Zalora
Statement slides
Yes, we're all about comfort, but who said you can't add some sass to your regular ol' slides?
Lucy Slides, P2195, FREEDOM MOSES, freedommoses.com.ph
Denim cut-offs
Jorts, anyone? Let your Daisy Dukes rest this summer, and don this trendy mid-thigh option instead.
Levi's 501 Mid-Thigh Shorts, P2799, LEVI'S, Available in One Ayala and levis.com
Vintage sunglasses
Shield your eyes while exuding old-school glamour in large, bow-framed sunnies. For extra mystique, channel your favorite retro idols by copping a mod-inspired pair.
Reese in Cashmere, P1495, SUNNIES STUDIOS, Available in One Ayala and sunniesstudios.com
High protection sunblock
We've heard time and again about the value of lathering on sunscreen. Take it one notch higher by opting for one that offers broad-spectrum protection as well as advanced hydration for your skin.
Protective Facial Lotion SPF50, P3050, AESOP, Available in Greenbelt 5 and aesopskincare.ph
Cleansing balm
A game-changing skincare innovation, cleansing balms promise a thorough yet gentle cleanse. With its rich and natural formulations, you can rub your face clean of the day's pollution and stubborn makeup. The best part? The same potent properties of Pili Butter, Pili Oil, and Virgin Coconut Oil are totally nourishing, too!
Cleansing Butter + Cleansing Oil, P2085, PILI ANI, piliani.com.ph
Bio-keratin shampoo
As in every tropical country, it does get hot and humid in Cebu. Tame frizzy tresses by repairing your hair from within by regularly using a shampoo that is infused with bio-keratin. Dove's latest haircare offering uses its patented technology, so your locks are always silky soft and manageable.
A sun-kissed makeup palette
Enhance your sun-kissed summer glow with this buildable palette from Teviant. Freshly restocked, this buildable and pigmented trio of contour, blush, and highlighter is a must-have for beauty aficionados. It also contains Vitamin E which helps prevent skin damage from UV rays and sun exposure.
Deity Dust in French Kiss, P695, TEVIANT, Available in Lazada and teviantbeauty.com
A light perfume
Your scent may be light, but it doesn't mean that it should be a lightweight. We love a long-lasting perfume, and Beach Walk from the Replica collection ticks all the boxes for a signature summer fragrance with its blend of coconut, musk, and floral accords.
Replica Beach Walk Eau de Toilette 30ml, P5150, MAISON MARGIELA, rustans.com
See you in Cebu!
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