​The northern towns of Cebu have beaches featuring fine white sand and crystal clear waters. But, the northern part of the island has more than just beaches. There are also a number of resorts offering something different for people looking for something new. One of these resorts is the Middle Earth Resort in Carmen.

Carmen 

The Municipality of Carmen was once called Bugho before the Spaniards came to the country. The town was eventually named Carmen by a Spaniard due to miscommunication. According to the story, a woman who was baptized was asked for the name of the place. Thinking that the Spaniard was asking about the necklace she was wearing, she said Carmen. Due to this, the place was named Carmen. 

Middle Earth Resort

The Middle Earth Resort is a relatively-new resort located in Barangay Lower Natimao-an, Carmen. The resort features four swimming pools with water source from the Mangitngit Falls. The Mangitngit Falls is one of the main features of this northern Cebu resort. While no one is allowed to take a dip at the Mangitngit Falls due to a tragic incident in 2007, the resort has a viewing area for visitors who want to marvel at the beauty of the waterfalls. 

​The swimming pools of the resort are surrounded by lush greenery. This makes the Middle Earth Resort ideal for visitors looking for a place to appreciate the beauty of nature while enjoying the creature comforts offered by a resort. The resort is one of the more popular places for locals to spend their weekend. The cold water of the pools is perfect for the summer months when the searing heat of the sun can leave one sweating like crazy. 

​Cottages are available for guests at the resort to use for a fee. The regular cottages with one table and give chairs can be rented for PHP400. There are also large kiosks with two table and ten chairs available at PHP3,000. You can get additional chairs at PHP10 each. An additional table and five chairs cost PHP200. Since there is no restaurant at the resort, it is advisable to bring your own food if you plan to stay at the place the whole day. 

​The entrance fee at the Middle Earth Resort is at PHP50 for adults and PHP10 for children nine years old and younger. The resort is open from 7:00 AM up to 5:00 PM. Due to the popularity of the Middle Earth Resort it is advisable to go to the resort early, especially during weekends. 

Getting to the Middle Earth Resort

You can reach the Middle Earth Resort by getting on a bus headed for Carmen at the Cebu North Bus Terminal. Make sure to tell the driver or conductor to drop you off at the Carmen Public Market. Once you reach the public market, you can get on a motorcycle for hire to the resort.

​The Middle Earth Resort can be an option if you are looking for a place where you can escape the heat of the summer sun. It is also a good place where the family can have fun without having to go too far away from the city.

Have you visited the Middle Earth Resort in Carmen already? Tell us about your visit in the comments section below.

​Many of the mountain barangays of Dalaguete has remained relatively undeveloped. Due to this, the town is gradually becoming one of the eco-tourism destinations in Cebu. Among the more famous places to visit in Dalaguete are Osmeña Peak, the Kulabyaw Cave, and Lagnason Creek. Another addition to this list of natural attractions in Dalaguete is the Dingayop Cave and Spring.

Dingayop Cave and Spring

The Dingayop Cave, and Spring are located in Barangay Obo, Dalaguete. The natural spring flows into different areas in the mountains of Dalaguete. It has also been the source of water of the Spaniards living in Dalaguete in the past. In fact, the spring was referred to as the “Kalalusan sa Pari” or the spring from where the parish priest gets drinking water.  The spring is also the source of water for residents in the area. 

​The Dingayop Cave is another noteworthy place to visit in Dalaguete. It is also known as Eagle’s Cave. The cave has remained relatively-undeveloped and the path leading to the cave itself can be slippery, especially during a downpour. It is essential to hire a guide to explore the cave since there are places where you have to crawl to explore the interior of the cave. 

Other Natural Attractions in Dalaguete

Dalaguete is known as the Vegetable Basket of Cebu and the Summer Capital of Cebu. It is also home to a number of natural attractions that are gradually becoming popular among nature lovers and adventure seekers all around the archipelago. These natural attractions include the Bandera Peak, Mag-Alambak Forest, Obong Spring, and the Rock Formation in Barangay Tabon. 

​The natural attractions of Dalaguete have remained relatively-untouched mainly due to its location in the mountain barangays of the town. But, with the increasing popularity of eco-tourism, it is important for us to do our part in protecting these natural attractions to ensure future generations will have the chance to marvel at their raw beauty. 

​Have you visited the Dingayop Cave and Spring already? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

​The Municipality of Dalaguete is popular for the highest peak in Cebu, Osmeña Peak. It is also home to a number of delicacies that are guaranteed to pique the interest of visitors to this town in the southern part of the island. Aside from the delicacies, the town is also home to a humble little noodle place that has tickled the fancy of locals and visitors alike. The name of the place . . . Maria's Batchoy and Restaurant.

Dalaguete

The cool climate of Dalaguete makes it ideal for growing vegetables, which is the reason why it is called the Vegetable Basket of Cebu. Aside from this, the mountain barangay of Mantalongon is also known as the Summer Capital of Cebu. But, Dalaguete also offers some delicacies people can taste while visiting the town. Among the things visitors can look forward to tasting is the Banana Meat of the town, which is among the mainstays during fiestas and special occasions. In addition, the town also has its own version of the Bibingka and Torta. 

Maria's Batchoy and Restaurant

Maria's Batchoy and Restaurant is one of the places anyone passing through Dalaguete should visit. It is located in the town center, which makes it hard to miss. The place has been receiving good reviews from people who were lucky enough to taste their menu offerings. The specialty of the house is the Batchoy. It is one of the crowd favorites at Maria’s Batchoy and people come in to get their fill of this delectable dish early in the morning. 

​Another popular dish at Maria’s Batchoy is their Pancit Canton. The dish has the right amount of meat and vegetables mixed with their noodles.  Customers can order either the Regular Pancit Canton or the Special Pancit Canton. In addition, they also serve Chicken Shrimp Canton. Maria’s Batchoy and Restaurant produce their own noodles for their noodle dishes. The noodles they use are thin and flat unlike the pancit canton offered in other places, which are round.

​Maria's Batchoy and Restaurant also has other noodle dishes on their menu. These noodle dishes include the Bihon Guisado, Pansit Guisado, Chicken Mami, and Lomi, among others. In addition, they also serve Chopsuey, Shrimp with Green Peas, Beef with Onions, and Crispy Pata.

​Even as Dalaguete is gradually becoming one of the major eco-tourism destinations in Cebu, it is also a good place for visitors to whet their appetite with the culinary offerings of the town. And one of the places where you can start this journey is Maria’s Batchoy and Restaurant.

Have you tasted the batchoy and other noodle dishes at Maria’s Batchoy and Restaurant in Dalaguete already? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

​Flower gardens in Cebu came into the limelight when the Sirao Flower Farm opened its doors to the public. Located in the mountain barangays of Cebu, flowers thrive in these locations due to its cool climate. The popularity of flower gardens is expected to increase following the opening of the first flower terraces in the Philippines, the Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garden.

Terrazas de Flores

The Terrazas de Flores is a botanical garden featuring flowers arranged on terraces. The terraced flowers were the creation of local highland farmers. They made use of interlocking stones to create the terraced effect. The place was initially created to demonstrate the love of a father for his children. It was completed in eight years and is becoming one of a popular destination among nature lovers and flower enthusiasts. 

​The place features 127 species of tropical flowers. In addition, paintings, poetry, and music can be found all over the Terrazas de Flores. The place also has a café where visitors can have a light meal or coffee. The café also offers desserts and other refreshments. In addition, viewing decks and cabanas are available for use by visitors to give them the chance to enjoy the beauty of nature in its full glory.

​The Terrazas de Flores is located in Barangay Malubog, Cebu City. This mountain barangay comes after Barangay Busay, which is also home to another flower garden where visitors have been visiting since it opened some time ago.  The entrance fee to the garden is at PHP100 per person while children only pay PHP50 each.

Getting to the Terrazas de Flores

You can get to the Terrazas de Flores by getting on a motorcycle for hire close to JY Square Discovery Mall. It is less than a kilometer away from La Tegola in Busay. The garden is on the left side of the road if you are travelling from Cebu City, right across the Malubog Integrated School. 

​Aside from providing something nice for people to look at, the Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garden will become a place where visitors can learn a thing or two about flowers. The future plans of the management include the opening of an interactive art gallery, botany lectures, and a camping ground is expected to make the garden one of the go-to-places in Cebu in the years to come.

​Have you visited the Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garden already? Tell us about your visit on the comments section below.

Cebuanos normally greet the New Year with a bang. But, the recent ban on the use of firecrackers at home, Cebuanos are looking for places where they can still have fun as the clock turns twelve at the end of the year. The following are some places where you can greet the New Year in style while in Cebu.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu

Formerly known as Cebu Plaza Hotel, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu has always been one of the places where Cebuanos can have fun while greeting the New Year. Every year, the hotel holds a countdown party where guests can dine and have fun while greeting the New Year. Aside from the drinks and buffet, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu also has games and a raffle. In addition, when the New Year comes, guests can expect a magnificent fireworks display. 

Crown Regency Hotel & Resort

Crown Regency Hotel & Resort is among the tallest buildings in the uptown area of Cebu. Due to this, it is a perfect place to stay if you want to watch fireworks lighting up the night sky during the New Year celebrations. In addition to the fireworks from different parts of Cebu, some of the restaurants at the place also hold their own New Year celebration for their guests. Guests can have a sumptuous dinner and get to watch the fireworks display from the Sky Observation Deck of the hotel. 

Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu

While many Cebuanos prefer to stay in the city during New Year, Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu offers an option for people looking to stay at the beach during the revelry. The resort offers guests a great view of fireworks flying up into the skies while taking a sip of their favorite drink at the beach.

Montebello Villa Hotel

Montebello Villa Hotel is the best garden hotel in the Queen City of the South. Aside from its mouthwatering buffet, the hotel also holds a countdown party for its guests every year. Guests get a glass of wine, noisemakers, and sparklers to greet the New Year. A show band will play catchy tunes to keep the atmosphere festive. 

Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan

​Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan is another resort in Mactan that offers guests a different way to greet the New Year. Instead of staying in the city, guests can watch fireworks lighting up the sky from the beachfront of the resort. The three-hour long countdown party will be capped with a spectacular pyrotechnics display when the clock strikes 12. 

With the ban on the use of firecrackers, you may want to consider greeting the New Year in these places. 

​Cebuanos typically greet the New Year with fireworks and parties. While many celebrate in the comfort of their homes, there are some who would go out and join parties in a number of places in and around the city. 
​
Watch Fireworks

Fireworks have always been a part of the New Year celebration among Cebuanos and Filipinos in general. These pyrotechnic devices normally light up the skies of Cebu a few minutes before the clock strikes twelve. If you are not keen on spending your hard-earned money on fireworks, you can look for an elevated location and watch fireworks flying into the skies some exclusive subdivisions in the city. If you are staying close to a major hotel, then you are in for a treat since these places typically have a fireworks display for their guests. You just have to stay outside and watch the night skies light up.

Countdown in Hotels

Another option is to join the countdown parties in some major hotels in the city. These parties typically include buffet dinner, champagne, and noisemakers.  While it may be quite a burden on your wallet, it still beats celebrating the New Year all alone in your room. If you are in the mood for a countdown party in a hotel, you can head on over to Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Radisson Blu Hotel, or Montebello Villa Hotel. These are just some of the hotels that hold these parties every year. 

Eat like a King

Since the New Year will be the last time you will have an excuse to eat a lot, you can also eat like a king. The Queen City of the South has a number of Eat-All-You-Can buffet restaurants catering to the different tastes of their guests. You can opt to eat in a number of reasonably-priced restaurants in Cebu or you may also visit the restaurants of some major hotels in the city. Whichever option you choose, just make sure you get only what you can consume.

Visit the Big Boom Sa Sugbo

You can also have some fun at the carnival with the opening of the “Big Boom sa Sugbo” at the South Road Properties. The amusement park has around 30 recreational amenities guaranteed to bring a smile on your face. Aside from the ubiquitous Ferris wheel, the place also has bumper boat rides, a horror ride, and a dragon boat ride, among others. 

Spend The Weekend At The Beaches in Mactan

If you feel the need to have some time off from life in the city without having to leave civilization, you can opt to spend your New Year in one of the beach resorts in Mactan. These resorts normally have something special lined up for their guests for the event. Even as you are getting your feet wet in the beach, you will still be able to watch the fireworks as the year comes to a close at these beach resorts.

Take a Road Trip

There may be instances when you really want to get away from the stress that comes with the celebration of the New Year. In these instances, you may want to take a road trip to the southern or northern part of the island. There are a number of places in the south and north where you can stay until all the excitement has died down. You can stay at the Maravilla Beach in the northwestern part of Cebu or in Oslob down in the south. 

Cebu has grown to become one of the business and entertainment hubs in the country. Due to this, people have a lot of options when it comes to celebrating New Year in the Queen City of the South.  It all boils down to how you want to greet the New Year.
​Cebu has grown to become one of the business and entertainment hubs in the country. Due to this, people have a lot of options when it comes to celebrating New Year in the Queen City of the South.  It all boils down to how you want to greet the New Year.

The humba is a traditional Filipino dish that has become a well-loved comfort food for Cebuanos. While nothing beats the humba your mom used to cook at home, there are times when it would not be possible for you to go back home to eat this sinfully-delicious dish. So, we came up with a list of places where you can find some of the best-cooked humba in the Queen City of the South.

Manggahan Restaurant

The Manggahan Restaurant is a cozy restaurant located along Wilson Street, Lahug, Cebu City. While it is more popular as a hang-out place, the restaurant does serve a good selection of Filipino dishes. One of these dishes is the humba.  The restaurant also has a branch at the Outlets in Mactan Island. 

Inigo’s Restaurant

Inigo’s Restaurant is a small hole-in-the-wall restaurant located in one of the side streets of Cebu. Similar to a number of hole-in-the-wall places in Cebu, this quaint little restaurant is situated on the second floor of a house. They offer a variety of Filipino dishes, including Braised Pork or the Humba. Inigo’s Restaurant is located along Don Mariano Cui Street, Capitol Site. 

Humba Station

From the name of the place itself, you already know the main offering of the Humba Station. The place prides itself of offering the best humba in town. Located along the row of eateries fronting TESDA and close to the Cebu IT Park, a good number of people can say the Humba Station is indeed true to its claim of offering the best humba in town.

Golden Cowrie

Golden Cowrie is considered as an institution in the food landscape of Cebu. Even as this home-grown native restaurant is popular for their Crispy Pata, they also offer their own version of the Humba. The restaurant has several branches all over Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro. 

Friendly Neighborhood Carinderia

​Another place you can find humba is none other than your friendly neighborhood carindeia or eatery. The humba is one dish you can normally find in these eateries. The humba offered at these eateries may be cheap, but some of them can be as good as the humba offered in some restaurants in the city. 

​The northern part of Cebu is popular for its beaches that can rival the best in the world. People visit this part of the island to look for a place where they can relax for the weekend. But, there are also some hidden gems waiting for visitors to discover if they are willing to take a trip to the north. One of these places is the Mangitngit Falls in Carmen. 

Carmen

Carmen was once a quiet little town in the northern part of Cebu. But, recent developments have put it in the position as being one of the top eco-destinations on the island. The town is home to the Durano Eco-Farm, Sinamay Falls, Mangrove Pocket Forest, and the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park.  

Mangitngit Falls

The Mangitngit Falls of Carmen is one of the few waterfalls in the northern part of the island. The place is a welcome oasis in this northern Cebu town. Surrounded by lush vegetation, it gives visitors the chance to commune with nature. Trekking to the waterfalls may be challenging especially when it rains or right after a heavy downpour. But, once you reach the Mangitngit Falls you will find out that all your efforts are worth it. 

​The place was actually closed for a period of time following landslide in 2007. But, after a few years, the place was once opened for viewing. No one is allowed to take a dip in the cool waters of the falls. But, the sound of gushing waters is suitably soothing to the senses.  The Mangitngit Falls now serves as the source of water for the four pools of a resort in the area, the Middle Earth Resort. 

Getting to the Mangitngit Falls

Your journey to the Mangitngit Falls starts at the Cebu North Bus Terminal where you can catch a bus headed to Carmen. Just make sure to tell the driver to let you off at the public market of the town. From the public market, you can ride on a motorcycle for hire to the waterfalls. 

​The Mangitngit Falls is one of a few waterfalls in the northern part of Cebu. While taking a dip in its cool, clear waters is not allowed, it is still a good place to visit if you want to get away from the stress of living in the city. 

Have you visited the Mangitngit Falls in Carmen already? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

​The beaches of Cebu are its main tourist drawers. The white sand and crystal clear waters can entice anyone looking for a place to relax on the island. But, the island has more to offer than its fine sand beaches. There are a number of mountains where you can try your hand in mountain climbing. Some mountains may be quite challenging for weekend warriors while others are easy enough to climb in a few hours. One of these easy climbs is the Sirao Peak.

​Sirao Peak

The Sirao Peak can be considered an easy climb for veteran climbers, but it may be somewhat challenging for those who are not quite used to exercising their muscles out on a mountain. While it is also known as Kan-Irag Peak, some mountaineers say its original name is Sibugay Peak. It is around 700 meters above sea level and reaching the summit gives visitors a panoramic view of Cebu.

Campsites at the Sirao Peak

While you can climb the Sirao Peak and go back down to civilization within a day, you might be interested in spending the night on top of the mountain. Nothing beats sleeping under the night sky with the stars shining down on you. You will also have an awesome view of the city when the lights turn on at night. There are two campsites at the Sirao Peak. The first campsite is at the Sirao Peak itself. You can find a good spot on the peak and pitch your tent there. The second campsite is located at the foot of Mt. Kan-Irag, which is accessible through the Budlaan Trail. 

​Whichever campsite you choose, you should always remember to leave nothing but footprints. In fact, it might even be better if you leave the place better than when you first found it. If you see some pieces of garbage at the place, you can pick them up and place them inside a bag before disposing of them properly when you go back to the city.

Trails Going to the Sirao Peak

There are two known trails going up the peak. The first trail is the Budlaan Trail where you pass through the Budlaan River. This trail also brings you close to the Tinisik-uwang Falls and the Kabang Falls. You will get to climb huge boulders on your way to the peak using this trail. The trek will take around four to six hours depending on how fit you are. 

​The second trail is the Backdoor Trail. This trail is called such since it is normally the trail hikers take on their way back from the Sirao Peak. It only takes less than an hour to reach the peak through this trail since you can ride a motorcycle for hire gong to the jump-off point. You can also pass by the popular Sirao Flower Farm when you pass through this trail. 

​The mountainous terrain in the middle of the island offers a lot for people looking for some adventure over the weekend. Climbing the Sirao Peak may not be challenging enough for die-hard outdoor enthusiasts, but it does offer weekend warriors something new in the Queen City of the South.

Have you climbed the Sirao Peak of Cebu already? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

​The Tops Lookout is one of the more popular tourist destinations in Cebu. Its location gives visitors a panoramic view of Cebu, which only gets better once the sun sets over the horizon. While people normally visit the place before or after dinner, this will change with the opening of the Top of Cebu in the area.

Top of Cebu

The Top of Cebu is a newly-opened restaurant offering a breathtaking view of the city. Located beside the Tops Lookout, the new restaurant has a multi-level dining area where guests can watch the city lights illuminating the night sky while having dinner.  It is part of the Pages Group of Companies, which also owns the Mooon Café, Thirsty Juices and Shakes, and Lantaw Restaurants, among others. 

​Many of the guests at the Top of Cebu agree that the restaurant is worth the visit. Aside from the nice ambiance, the place also offers a good selection of food items. The food choices at the Top of Cebu are the proud creations of Executive Chef Kairos Joseph Alo.  The Top of Cebu offers classic Cebuano comfort food with a twist.  In addition, they also have a good selection of international dishes to pique the taste buds of any food-loving Cebuano. 

Top of Cebu Menu Offerings

The Top of Cebu also offers both American and Filipino Breakfast on its menu. Appetizers include the Chorizo Platter, Salted-Egg Calamares, and Bacon Cashew Cheeseball. Soup offerings at the restaurant include the well-loved Pochero de Cebu, Monggo Bean Soup, and Cream of Chicken Soup, among others. 

​The restaurant also has a good selection of pasta dishes, including the Truffled Mushroom Seasonal and Seafood Marinara Pasta. For the main course, guests can choose from their Sizzling Bulalo ala Pobre, Chicken Adobo de Gata, Tuna Belly, Crispy Pata, and Grilled Pork Belly, among others. Salad lovers will not be out of place at the Top of Cebu since the restaurant offers the Mango-Kan Salad, Grilled Shrimp and Citrus Salad, and Ginataang Ulam, among others.

Prices and Hours of Operation

The prices of the menu items at the Top of Cebu start at PHP60 for the Balut ala Royale up to PHP1,200 for their Porterhouse Steak.  Prices of the drinks at the restaurant are between PHP60 for their Iced Tea and PHP150 for their Fresh Juices. The Top of Cebu is open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day

Getting to the Top of Cebu

The Top of Cebu is located beside Tops Lookout. It is around thirty minutes from JY Square Discovery Mall. You can reach the restaurant by getting on a motorcycle for hire close to the mall to bring you up the mountains of Busay. 

​The Top of Cebu is among the latest additions to the restaurant landscape of Cebu. Aside from offering delectable food items, the restaurant also offers guests a panoramic view of the Queen City of the South. 

Have you visited the Top of Cebu already? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.