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Pastry chef and cosplayer Miles Semblante (Photography by Beth Lobitaña of Snapholic/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle July 2015)
BEST PLACE TO DINE My appetite demands a lot, and Bada Korean Restaurant is always my answer. You cook samgyeupsal or marinated meat on the spot while munching on delectable Korean side dishes. Did I forget to mention that everything is unlimited?
MUST-TRY DISH IN CEBU For those with an adventurous palate (and stomach), chicken proven is the new ginabot. I recommend these to friends after a long night out, and I never disappointed them. Stalls are found near J.Y. Square, Cebu I.T. Park, and at the back of Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital.
BEST PLACE TO HAVE DRINKS I have been a customer here for almost five years, and it is always the same order: chicken tonkatsu and a set of beer. Iamik’s Chicken & Beer promises good vibes, good music, good food, and the waiters there become your bros instantly.
FAVORITE PLACE IN THE CITY Café Egao in Talamban gives me that warm feeling of home if you were in Japan. My favorites include their delicious cold ramen and Takoyaki. Their shaved ice has saved me from hot afternoons numerous times. And their coffee, I always order their coffee.
BEST OUT-OF-THE-CITY DESTINATION Sileo in Gaas, Balamban is the perfect getaway. It’s in the mountains, so expect serenity, fog, and Sweater Weather temperature. Great place to unwind, bring a date, or just escape the city. Guests can rent rooms (or even the entire house!) and can expect a hearty breakfast in the morning.
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, November 2015
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John Rey Guadalquiver (executive strategic manager of Tri-J Marketing, owner of John’s Detox Bar, founder of Healthy Shots/photography by Joseph Ong)
Authenticity is becoming harder to come by in our city, but this quaint restaurant will indubitably give you soul-satisfying Filipino dishes, accompanied with an unpretentious ambiance. It’s such a delight to feast on traditionalist native specialities, such as their Adobong Bangus Belly and Mongo Soup.
Bellini Champagne Bar has an extensive menu of decent wines, apt for yuppies, who wants to unwind with a charming view of the city and a casual European ambiance.

Bellini Champagne Bar (Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015)
This fresh and funky boutique hotel sets apart from all the orthodox hotels in Cebu. Each room and floor of this postmodern hotel is never the same, it’s like you’ve been transported to an art gallery.

The Henry Hotel (Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015)
For thrill seekers such as myself, this is a perfect weekend go-to for exhilirating water sports adventures. Try their rip-roaring wakeboarding, or if you are feeling a little daring, rapel down a 60-feet waterfall. I recommend camping here overnight to truly experience an action-packed get-away.

Danasan Eco-Adventure Park (Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015)
Bojo River Eco-Cultural Tour in the town of Aloguinsan promotes the natural heritage of the river and their unspoiled mangroves. The hospitable women, who welcomes you with a lei, and knowledgeable boatmen, are all locals empowered to protect their natural environment and culture.

Bojo River Eco-Cultural Tour (Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015)
What better way to start a riveting canyoning than to jump off a 20-feet waterfall! If you’re nonchalant, get ready for an ultimate life-changing adventure that challenges your mental and physical potential. You will be making your way down the lush Matutinao valley, gazing on mesmerizing stalactites, and leaping countless waterfalls.

Canyoneering in Badian (Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015)
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015. Like Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook.
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EAT YOUR HEART OUT Maya Mexican Restaurant. I absolutely love their Queso Fundido! It’s my all-time favorite comfort food. Their fish tacos and quesadillas are great as well. I love the interiors and ambience of this place, too!
Crossroads, Banilad
6332. 238 9552, 238 9618
www.theabacagroup.com
CHEERS TO THAT Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s BLU Bar & Grill has impressive food and extensive cocktails, and the breathtaking view of the city from a thousand feet; and The Ibiza Beach Club at the Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, with its chic and upbeat Mediterranean atmosphere, is perfect for when you’re up for some lively music, tapas, and drinks right by the beach.
Cebu Veterans Drive, Nivel Hills
6332. 253 1111
www.marcopolohotels.com
HAPPY PLACE Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa. It has everything: the best fine dining restaurants, the cleanest white sand beach, sprawling grounds and beautifully manicured lawns and landscapes, excellent rooms, and world-class service.
Punta Engaño Road, Mactan
6332. 231 0288
www.shangri-la.com
Edited from ‘Locales’, originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, March 2015. Like Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook.
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TV host and restaurant owner Alexis Yap (Photography by Kurt Fick/Zee Lifestyle November 2014 issue)
ALEJANDRO’S CRISPY PATA
I feel relaxed sitting outside at night with the cool breeze, enjoying a glass of calamansi juice, while hanging out with my friends. Also, it’s home to the best crispy pata in Cebu!
Century Plaza Commercial Complex
Juana Osmeña St., Cebu City
6332. 253 7921
BURGAHOLIC
Located near Sacred Heart School for Girls’ back gate, this hole-in-the-wall burger place makes the meanest, honest-to-grilled-goodness sirloin beef burgers! Their special sauces that add to the kick are just to-die-for.
M.P. Yap Street, Cebu City
6332. 254 0990
MOUNTAIN VIEW
I like going to Mountain View because it takes you away from the cray in the city. The cooler temperatures and cleaner are are quite refreshing.
Sitio Garahe, Busay, Cebu City
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, February 2015. Like Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook.
With 11 hectares of secluded grounds, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa feels like its own tranquil world apart from the rest of the island’s offerings. Large saltwater lagoons are flanked by villas and rooms in colonial-plantation architecture, complementing the overall feeling of being “away from it all.”
Take the escape even further by booking treatments at Mogambo Springs – situated in the middle of the resort but feeling like a destination on its own, the spa is inspired by an 18th century Tokugawa Japanese village and offers a wide range of relaxation and wellness packages.
Marigondon, Mactan Island
6332. 505 9800
www.plantationbay.com
With more than two decades of operation, Bluewater Maribago remains a favorite weekend destination for the consistently updated rooms and facilities, remarkable gastronomical offerings and warm Filipino hospitality.
A stay at the resort finds a wide range of dining options that will have your taste buds rejoicing at the holiday as well – the Allegro offers al fresco dining with Filipino; Asian and continental cuisine; The Cove is a live seafood restaurant that overlooks the resort’s private island; Molto Italiano is best known for its brick oven specialties; the Amuma Juice Bar and Spa Café offers light fare to complement the spa’s services; and the open-air Oyster Bar is a great place to unwind and enjoy fresh shellfish with cocktails.
Buyong Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City
6332. 492 0100
www.bluewatermaribago.com.ph
LOCALES PICK: FREEDIVE HQ IN MACTAN
For the free divers at heart and the aspiring, this is the spot for you! It is my personal quick getaway from all the hustle and bustle in the city. They have one of the most beautiful and natural coral landscapes, so that makes diving a godsend. Freedive HQ employs champion SSI free divers for your utmost convenience. So get learning and get diving! Oh, and they host amazing trips to some of Mactan’s beautiful islands as well. What’s not to love? – Veronica Chiongbian (Zee Lifestyle Directory, November 2014)
Freedive HQ is an Scuba Schools International Diamond free diving facility offering SSI programs. For inquiries, click here.
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, April 2015. Like Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook.

Sam Despi (Photography by Dani Bautista)
Not a lot of people know about Paradise Beach and its crystal clear waters, even though it’s featured on the Welcome to Cebu billboard at the airport. It’s in a secluded area of Bantayan Island and there are only two ways to get there: a 20-minute trek on rough terrain or by boat. The beach’s remoteness often means you’ll be the only people there, so it’s like being on your own private resort.

Paradise Beach, Bantayan Island
One of my favorite places to hang out in at dusk is the Emporium Skate Park behind the Kokodine building in downtown Cebu. It’s the perfect place to watch the colors of the sunset behind the iconic Compania Maritima along SRP. Watching the skateboarders is equally mesmerizing.

Emporium Skate Park (Photography by Cliff Rigor/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, October 2014)
This cozy café’s been bitten by the travel bug. Its walls and shelves are adorned with the Zosa family’s mementos from around the world. The food is yummy and the neighborhood is quiet. It’s a great place to unwind after a long day.

A Little Piece of Sky Cafe
Originally published in the Zee Lifestyle Directory, October 2014. Like Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook by clicking here.
]]>Every time I drive down south, I love making a stop at the Molave Milk Station in Barili. It’s a little tricky to find, but when you get to the town, look for a cow farm on the right side of the road. The Milk Station is right by a curve turning left. I always have to get a few cones of their ice cream! It’s soft ice cream made from fresh cow milk, so it’s definitely mouthwatering. They also sell items like barquillos.

Mayan with a friend at the Molave Milk Station (Photo from Mayan Benedicto/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, May 2014)
There is a secluded beach in Camotes Island called Bakhaw Beach. It. Is. Just. Breathtaking! Most people go to Santiago Beach, but I find this beach more attractive because it’s not surrounded by any resorts or restaurants. If you plan on doing a beach/camping trip, this is your spot. Pitch in your tent and soak up in the sun!

Bakhaw Beach (Photo by Mayan Benedicto/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, May 2014)
Osmeña Peak in Mantalongon, Dalaguete is popular among climbers. I’m no climber, yet I still love going back there. The hike awaiting you from the Mantalongon market up to the peak is full of breathtaking views, overlooking the vegetable farms. And the best part is when you reach the peak – what a majestic view! It never gets old. You can also camp there overnight. No fees. I warn you, though, it can get really cold!

Mayan at Osmeña Peak (Photo by Ma. May Saludsod/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, May 2014)
Edited from ‘Locales’, originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory Vol. 5 No. 4 May 2014. Like the Zee Lifestyle Directory on Facebook.
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Islands Pasalubong (Photography by Jean Yu: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory December-January 2015)
If you’re in Cebu and planning to buy something for your family, friends or co-workers, visit Islands Pasalubong, a one-stop shop housing Cebu’s hard-to-find local delicacies and homemade varieties. It focuses mainly on pasalubongs, making it convenient for tourists to shop without having to wait for long lines in groceries and department stores. Let your loved ones back home enjoy what Cebu has to offer as well!
JEAN YU
Life on a Flavored Runway

Ralfe Gourmet (Photography by Roriza Reyes: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, Dec-Jan 2015)
Get to know a chocolatier’s journey and sample Raquel Choa’s artisan chocolate boutique at Ralfe Gourmet in Topaz St., Casals Village, Mabolo. Set an appointment by e-mailing info@ralfegourmet.com.
KRISTINE ROA
The Style Cebu
“During Sinulog, I would suggest a visit to the famous Basilica Del Sto. Niño. For interior geeks like me, the beautiful mixture of Spanish Baroque, Greco-Roman and Neoclassic concepts of one of the oldest historical sites here in Cebu is a must-see!”
GILLIAN UANG
By Details

Pizza Republic (Photography by Marco Diala: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory-Dec-Jan 2015)
Be adventurous and create your own pizza masterpiece at Pizza Republic. Customers can dress their pizza with as many toppings as they want and choose from over 60 ingredients for a fixed price. The taste of the pizza really depends on the toppings, so carefully choose the ingredients that will taste good together. They also do ready-made pizzas for the less adventurous customers at the same price.
MARCO PAULO DIALA
Lami Kaayo!

Camotes Island (Photography by Edd Buenaviaje: Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory, Dec-Jan. 2015)
From a cool dip in the clear natural pool inside Timubo Cave and a swim in turquoise and sapphire waters of Santiago and Mangudlong Beaches, to a refreshing shower at Poro and Tudela Waterfalls and underwater adventures through snorkeling or diving, Camotes Island offers boundless activities that would surely marvel any nature lover. Don’t forget to watch out for the dolphins as you cross the Camotes Sea!
DOYZKIE BUENAVIAJE
I Luv Cebu
Originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory’s December 2014-January 2015 issue. Lead photo by Vincent Gallarde.
]]>9:00 A.M. – BREAKFAST AT A CAFÉ
True, it’s not the most local stop, but The Abaca Group’s favorite brunch hangout has a menu that’s definitely worthy of a visit. The Eggs Benedict and Biscuits with Gravy are enough to power you up for the rest of the day.

The A Cafe’s Eggs Benedict (Photography by Genesis Raña, originally published in Zee Lifestyle Hotel Edition July 2011)
10:00 A.M. – TOPS
No matter how often it’s mentioned, Tops remains a favorite stop on tours around the city for the stunning views of the city, the sea, and the neighbouring islands below.
12:00 N.N. – LUNCH AT CIRCA 1900
Circa 1900, located in a turn-of-the-century ancestral home, has become a must-visit dining destination not only for its cuisine, but also to experience history and culture in Cebu. Its menu features international dishes that pay homage to Filipino culinary heritage through the use of local ingredients—definitely something for the tourists to check out.
2:00 P.M. – MAGELLAN’S CROSS
Planted by Ferdinand Magellan’s men upon arriving in Cebu on April 21, 1521, the Magellan’s Cross is the symbol of the Cebuano’s acceptance of the Christian faith.
2:30 P.M. – MUSEO SUGBO
A first visit to Cebu will never be complete without a short visit to the Museo Sugbo. Take a short hike from the Magellan’s Cross and travel back in time with the century-old galleries depicting Cebu’s rich history and culture.
3:30 P.M. – MERIENDA ON THE STREET
Once done with Museo Sugbo, take a detour on the nearby side streets and grab a bite from the numerous vendors that line it. You can find carts stocked with roasted peanuts, steamed corn, pork barbecue and delicacies like rosquillos, barquillos and chicharron.
4:30 P.M. – SKY EXPERIENCE ADVENTURE
Take a walk on the wild side—at 35 stories up, that is. Sitting atop Crown Regency right along the bustling Fuente Osmeña, you can walk around the building’s ledge, ride a coaster that can tilt you to the ground, or take a zip line from one tower to the other.
6:30 P.M. – DINNER AT ZUBUCHON
What better way to indulge with some succulent roasted pork? Although their version isn’t exactly the trademark Cebu lechon, Zubuchon’s roasted pork is crisp, full of flavour, and definitely worth the calories.
8:00 P.M. – SOUVENIR SHOPPING
You can’t leave town without something to remember your trip by. Islands Pasalubong carries all the delicacies and products you’ll want to bring home, from dried mangoes and danger to Cebu-themed shirts and accessories.

Islands Pasalubong (Photography by Jean Yu, originally published in Zee Lifestyle Directory December-January 2015)
9:30 P.M. – DRINKS AT POLITICS
If you have enough time for a nightcap, grab a drink or more at the Politics Cafe + Public House. A modern mix of industrial and brick walls complimented by plush leather seats and warm lighting make it an ideal place to wrap up an eventful day in Cebu.
This is an updated list from the 24 Hour: Tourist Trail originally published on the Zee Lifestyle Directory, December 2014-January 2015 issue.
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Jen Sarmiento, DJ and CEO of Beauty and Beyond Philippines

A view of Cebu from Tops
Out of all the places in Cebu, I would probably say that Tops is my all-time favorite spot. This place is not only romantic, but it is extremely overwhelming and relaxing as well. If you simply want to wander off and be somewhere out of the city, this would be the perfect spot. Not only do you get the cool refreshing wind sensation tingling down your spine, but you also get a breathtaking view of the city. The most ideal time to go here would be at night, where the area transforms into a real life planetarium. There were times in the past that I was even able to witness a meteor shower. Tops truly is an amazing spot worth visiting, taking into consideration that is just 30 minutes away from the city. Tops in one word is breathtaking.

Cowrie Cove
Another favorite spot to hang out in a “chill” atmosphere would be the cowrie cove beach front. This is an ideal place to watch the sunset with your favorite people in the world. I’ve done this a lot and the feeling is fulfilling every time. Moreover, you get to enjoy their delicious cocktails and quick bites and you can have fun frolicking in the sand ’til night time.

Jen with her family and friends at Oslob
For nature lovers like me, Oslob is one of the spots I truly enjoy. In Oslob, I was able to experience swimming with the world’s largest fish. It is quite a remarkable experience for people who enjoy long drives and a mix of adventure. The icing on the cake would probably be the unforgettable whale shark or “butanding” in the local dialect.
Edited from the published article Locales in Zee Lifestyle Directory April 2014 Vol 5 No. 3