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Start your year right and memorable in these reopened tourist destinations in Cebu this year!
Image: Cebu Tourism Office Facebook Page
It might be hard to believe that you missed a lot of plane rides, river cruises, and cliff jumping adventures last year due to the coronavirus pandemic. But that’s in the past! This year, you can be more optimistic and even start planning your travel itinerary!
You can kick-off your getaway by rediscovering famous spots in Cebu, one of the country’s prime tourist destinations. Thanks to new safety practices and cleaning protocols in reopened towns and tourist destinations in Cebu, you can once again fuel your adrenaline rush, take colorful pictures, and unwind in nature. Read on to see five destinations in Cebu and find out where you can begin your 2021 adventure!
1. Sibonga
Simala Church is considered to be the home of the Virgin Mary by Marin devotees.
Image: Simala Shrine Facebook Page
Set foot on the miraculous grounds of Simala Shrine in Sibonga, Cebu to meditate and say your prayers before you explore the island. The shrine is a popular destination visited by both locals and tourists alike because of its awe-inspiring European-inspired cathedrals and cultural themes. When visiting the monastery, note that you should be wearing formal attire and must be mindful of your actions and words inside the church.
2. Badian
You can also try Kawasan Canyoneering when visiting Kawasan Falls in Badian.
Image: Kawasan Falls Facebook Page
Badian and its natural wonders have always been a thrill seeker's paradise with its clear waterfalls and endless mountain trails. In the southern part of Cebu, clear turquoise water falling from Kawasan Falls make it one of the country’s most visited spots. If you came from Osmeña Peak, most tour guides recommend a walk down to this waterfall, but you can go directly from Barili.
3. Aloguinsan
Recommended place to visit: Bojo River Cruise, Bojo, Aloguinsan, Cebu
Cebu has its own huge lagoon just like in El Nido, Palawan.
Image: Aloguinsan River Eco-Cultural Tour Facebook Page
Voted as one of the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations in the World, Bojo River in Aloguinsan, Cebu is a must-visit. To explore the river, take the Aloguinsan River Eco-Cultural Tour where you can cruise down and see the flora and fauna of the river ecosystem with local fishermen. For three hours, you can experience a calming riverboat ride, go swimming, and have environmental lessons.
4. Bantayan Island
Alongside the German Ruins is a cliff 20 feet from the water below.
Image: Bantayan Island Facebook Page
Ever since the Filipino film “Camp Sawi” was released in theaters, many tourists have flocked to Bantayan Island, which was the picturesque setting of the movie. After all, who could resist the breathtaking beaches and Instagram-worthy mangrove gardens this island offers? If you got your heart hurt last year, leave the past and jump into the waves at the famous cliff-diving site, the German Ruins.
5. Moalboal Island
Meet the friendly sea creatures hiding underwater in Moalboal and Pescador Island.
Image: Savedra Dive Center Facebook Page
Just a few kilometers off the coasts of Moalboal, Cebu is one of the best diving spots in the province. You can dive underwater and see colorful sea creatures, turtles, and coral reefs with the help of Savedra Dive Center’s professional scuba divers. To top off your underwater diving experience, witness the Sardine Run near Pescador Island.
Before leaving for these destinations, remember to register at the Cebu Provincial Tourism Portal’s website:https://discover.cebu.gov.ph/ and follow minimum health standards. Their protocols will allow you to be thrilled, relaxed, and in love once again with Cebu’s diverse and wonderful destinations!
Go to Yoorekka to discover more of Cebu’s tourist destinations.
Stay safe as you travel! Make sure to follow social distancing protocols and observe health precautions wherever you go. Have a great trip!
