About Cebu
Snapshot of Cebu
The province of Cebu is composed of the main island of Cebu and more than 160 surrounding islands and islets. Home to Cebu City - known as the “Queen City of the South” and the oldest city in the Philippines - Cebu holds a significant place in the country’s history as the first Spanish settlement. With a total population of over 5 million, Cebu is one of the most dynamic provinces in the country. Cebuano is the native language, but English is widely spoken, making it easy for international travelers to communicate. Cebu is celebrated for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine sanctuaries, world-class diving spots, and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a perfect balance of nature, history, and modern city life.
Local Currency/Payments
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Currency exchangevservices are available at airports, major hotels, shopping malls, and banks. Most upscale establishments accept Visa and Mastercard, though carrying some cash is advisable for tips, small purchases, and local shops. ATMs are widely available throughout Cebu and resort areas.
Local Transportation
Colorful jeepneys that are the city’s main public transportation are only for the adventurous. Proceed with extreme caution and with plenty of help from your hotel concierge regarding routes. What we recommend: - Grab (the local equivalent of Uber) is highly recommended for convenience, safety, and transparent pricing. - Private transfers and hotel-arranged vehicles. - Metered taxis are affordable and readily available.
Electricity & Connectivity
Standard Philippine voltage and mobile networks apply. Coverage is strong in city and resort areas. Electricity runs on 220V / 60Hz using Type A, B, and C plugs. Most luxury hotels offer universal outlets or adapters, but we recommend packing your own. We recommend purchasing an E-Sim prior to arriving for cellular data access. Local pre-paid SIM cards for cellular data only are also available for purchase at the airport.