Here are five places to add to your list to visit in Cebu when the quarantine is over!
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the local travel industry of the country. A lot of people were confined to their homes due to the enhanced community quarantine in Cebu City. Though Cebu tourist attractions have closed and summer plans got canceled, people found ways to stay connected, uplifted, and inspired through the internet.
Now that the government of Cebu is easing lockdown restrictions in some areas, traveling is one of the activities people are looking forward to. Undeniably, the behavior of travelers after the pandemic will change; most will prefer nearby destinations. This works in the province’s favor, as there are many Cebu tourist attractions just waiting to be revisited. Read on and rediscover the island of Cebu, a big hodgepodge of world-class wonders and activities waiting to be experienced!
1. Cebu Taoist Temple
Location: Beverly Hills Subdivision, Cebu City
Distance from Cebu City: 3.5 kilometers (11-minute drive from the metro)
The temple was built by the Taoist community in 1972.
Cebu Taoist Temple is an ideal place for meditation. For tourists, the temple’s artistic structures is a sight to behold. Visiting it is like taking a trip to China with all the dragon statues, pagoda roofs, and well-maintained flora and plants showcasing Ancient Chinese architecture that adorn the entire place. Part of the healing effect that comes from visiting the temple is brought by the panoramic views of Cebu City at the top of the place.
2. Sirao Flower Garden
Location: Barangay Sirao, Cebu City
Distance from Cebu City: 19 kilometers (37-minute drive from the metro)
Just like in the Netherlands, different colors of nature will give local tourists a Dutch experience.
Image: Sirao Garden, Little Amsterdam Facebook Page
Another elevated spot to visit after the quarantine is the Sirao Flower Garden in Busay. This famous attraction is known to be “the little Amsterdam” in Cebu with its vibrant red, purple, yellow, and orange celosia flowers. The peaceful garden is also best for those who want to breathe unpolluted air after being stuck in the metro for months during the quarantine.
3. Oslob Whale Shark Watching
Location: Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob, Cebu
Distance from Cebu City: 125 kilometers (3 hours and a 20-minute drive from the metro)
Visit the gentle giants in one of the beautiful beaches in Cebu.
Image: Oslob Cebu Facebook Page
Rich in natural seascape and relaxing scenery, Oslob houses the world-famous whale shark watching attraction. Located in Southern Cebu, Oslob Whale Shark watching should be in the bucket list of local tourists who want to see something unusual after the quarantine. This site is quite controversial among environmentalists; make sure to adhere to the guidelines to keep the whale sharks safe as much as possible.
4. Osmeña Peak
Location: Mantalongon, Dalaguete, Cebu
Distance from Cebu City: 100 kilometers (3-hour drive from the metro)
Osmeña Peak is also located in the Southern part of Cebu.
Image: Osmeña Peak Facebook Page
Standing at 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak will give you the opportunity to breathe in fresh mountain air. Despite it being the highest point of the island, trekking to the top of Osmeña Peak will only take 15 to 20 minutes. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with the view of Dalaguete and the sea. While there, savor the scent of fresh, wet grass and the exhilarating feeling of the cold wind on your face.
5. Kawasan Falls
Location: Badian, Cebu
Distance from Cebu City: 111 kilometers (3 hours and a 20-minute drive from the metro)
You can also traverse to Kawasan Falls after your trip to Osmeña Peak.
Image: Kawasan Falls Facebook Page
As one of the most famous attractions in Southern Cebu, Kawasan Falls’ breathtaking view will uplift locals who have been in quarantine. The waterfall is a three-stage cascade of clear water from the springs of the Mantalongon mountain range. Tourists can jump, swim, climb, and abseil through the cool streams. Given that most of your summer was spent indoors, taking a trip to this waterfall once it reopens will surely give your body a cool treat.
Local tourism will help the country recover from the pandemic’s impact on the travel industry. More than that, it is also a good way to promote the motherland’s beauty to its own people!
Go to Yoorekka to discover more wonderful spots you might want to visit when it's safe.
