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General Information
.....Often called the “Queen City of the South” and the Seat of Christianity in the Philippines, Cebu is the country's oldest city. Exploring Cebu City, one encounters a rich historic past. Cebuanos are extremely proud of their cultural and historical heritage, a legacy which has endured through the centuries from the time the great explorer Ferdinand Magellan first planted the cross on Cebu 's shore. Time has been kind to Cebu. From Zubu, the busy trading port in 1521, it has evolved into a highly urbanized metropolitan center which now serves as focal point of growth and development in Southern Philippines. |
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Population/Language
Cebu Province has a total population of more than 3 million. Cebuano is the native tongue. While Filipino is commonly understood and spoken, the English language is widely used in business transactions and education. |
Weather
Cebu is best from December to May when the weather turns dry. It is coolest from December to February, hottest from March to May. Temperature can rise as high as 37°C in the summer. The rainy season begins in July bringing torrential downpours that would sometimes inhibit movement. |
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 Barong Tagalog |
Dress/What to Bring
Wear natural-fiber, lightweight clothing. Bring bathing suit, insect repellent, flashlight, sun block cream, comfortable shoes for walking, rubber slippers for the beach. For formal affairs, Coat & Tie or Barong Tagalog is the norm. |
Electrical Appliances
Most areas in Cebu are supplied with 220 volts, 60 cycles. A plug with 2 flat parallel prongs is the norm. |
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Money
The Philippine currency is peso, divided into 100 centavos. Most foreign currencies can easily be changed at banks, hotels and authorized dealers. Major foreign credit cards may be accepted only at major hotels, resorts, shops and restaurants. Visitors are advised to bring sufficient amount of change in small bills or coins. |
Business Hours
Banks-9am to 3pm Monday to Friday; Government agencies and offices-8am to 5pm Monday to Friday; Department stores-10am to 8pm Monday to Sunday.
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Tipping
Bellhops expect a tip, as do waiters, taxi drivers, hairdressers, beauticians and porters. Tipping 5-15% of the bill is appropriate if no service charge is included |
Public Transport
Getting around Cebu, one may take a colorful jeepney or a bus at a minimal fare. Taxicabs are widely available. |
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