Flaky Pastry

By: Alyssa Marie Tecson 5

My grandmother likes to bake otap for us. It’s a tradition in our family to pass the recipe of the otap every generation. So this is one of the foods that I really miss to eat. Since when I was a child I use to eat otap at home with my childhood friend and until now. 

Why I love to eat otap is because it has a texture of flaky and sugary and its tastes very delicious.  And when you eat otap or just take a bite on it, it breaks into fragments as easily and creates a mess. But the otap easily melts inside your mouth and that is the one thing that I really enjoy by eating otap. This kind of pastry is very easy to bake and the ingredients are simple, easy to find. The price is also affordable and you can find it anywhere.

Making otap can be a source of income. In that way, you can start a small business. Making otap is very indemand until now; it was a great pasalubong and snack. Just like what I have said before, the ingredients are very common such as flour, sugar, and shortening only.

This snack is for family, barkada and for everyone. You can share it where ever you are. Otap`s taste is one thing that you can't forget. And especially if your otap is made from Cebu I’m surely that it was very delicious and one of a kind.

I highly recommend it for everyone who loves to eat snacks. And I also highly recommend it for everyone who will go to Cebu to try otap, because Otap is one of the most delicious signature snacks of Cebu. Go buy and try it, you won’t regret it.  

Floating Restaurants

By: Rosario D. Guerrero 5

After a tiring activity under the sea, take a break to Cao-uy which you can taste their fresh sea foods. Cao-uy is an area in Olango Island that has several floating restaurants. Actually, they were not really floating but resting on wooden stilts, and the other name for this would be "stilted restaurants". 

These floating restaurants offer fresh seafood. Their main ingredient are crabs, lobsters, fishes, shellfishes, prawns, etc. You can also tell the cook how you want them prepared — like grilled or fried, or whatsoever. And finally! You may now relax for the dishes to be served and enjoy the sight seeing of the place.

It have been a common stop for tourists who are on an island-hopping trip around nearby islands. The place was amazing and incredibly relaxing. Just admiring the view of the island and the Olango was enough to kill the time as we were waiting for our food to be served because it is slowly to cook by their chef's but hey, the waiting is worth it!

Expect that the price before to Cao-uy is very expensive because you will take many transportation's like boats and tricycle’s before you can arrive there. Also their dishes are pricier than your regular restaurants but I assure you that you will not regret it because the foods are extremely delicious! I like to invite my friends who are stingy to go here in these stilted restaurants because I know very well that they will enjoy the meal here.

Yes, the food here is really really good! It was tasty, and you surely will taste the freshly water in the sea foods. Plus you can see the over view of the whole island.

Ceboom

By: Samuel Vicente 5



Upon my arrival at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, I was a bit amazed on how the capital city of the Visayas region became a new source for modernization, commercial enterprise, traditional beauty and economic development. As we drove past, we saw lots of new establishments blooming and opening upon each road. And not to mention, the new constructions building condominiums, malls and other structures around the thriving urban metropolis.

Cebu is boldly attempting to smash Manila's imperial dominance through the boom of businesses and development that reaches far beyond to the emergence of a new stage in city hood. Unlike the choking, overcrowded and stuffy Metropolitan Manila, Cebu is blessed with fresh and open surroundings which can be a good opportunities for investors or entrepreneurs who want to make a fresh provincial start. Cebu is also not overpopulated with lots of people and there are many open lots available for those who want to seize the opportunity to start a business.

One of Cebu's growing business investments is the construction of the Cebu Park District by the Ayala Corporation. The park is a unified district of various economic zones composed within Cebu's commercial zone. This district has become the epicenter of the city's booming economy, which grew in about 18.8 percent in its total revenue last 2012. The Ayala's regional headquarters is situated in this district. Due to this, Cebu city began to enjoy the privileges of world-class standard services and products. They can live harmoniously and blissfully just like those living in the urbanized areas of Manila.

Other developments surging in the city have become a powerhouse for sustained economic growth that not just benefits the city itself but also the nation. The real-estate industry is the fastest growing in the city, with condominiums and subdivisions being built at an almost exponential rate. The city also gains particular attention in shipbuilding and furniture making, the combination of which become the magical advantage for international export.

The city of Cebu is slowly creeping up to overthrow Manila into a giant economic and commercial energizer, if it continues to multiply in growth in a matter of decades. For those who want to venture into a new opportunity in business and investment, but is too skeptical to start one in the concrete jungles of Manila, then the fresh sandy beaches of Cebu may be the right place to fill in.

Sugbu

By: Samuel Vicente 4

Upon arriving at Cebu city, there are plenty of places to come and visit which may take your breath away. The history of the city itself which spans for centuries remains remarkably preserved in the churches and monuments which make up the old, but progressive city. Some of those sites include the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, Fort San Pedro, Casa Gorordo Museum and the Magellan's Cross.

If you want to go more modern, Cebu City is also a haven for party-goers and luxury visitors. The Waterfront Hotel city of Cebu is a luxury hotel and casino for those who want to try their luck with money and fortune. A summer in Cebu will always be adventurous and hot due to the number of beautiful white-sand beaches located within the shores of the city. Among the beaches include the Sta. Fe Beach in Bantayan Island, Tingko Beach in Alcoy, Santiago Beach in Camote Island and the Dalaguete Beach Park. For shopping addicts, Ayala Center Cebu and SM City Cebu are just a drive away where people can dine in, watch movies and shop in glamorous stores throughout the shopping centers.

It is not only through these amazing locations where the city breathes in wonder and elegance, it also comes alive with colorful and fancy festivals and events that wrap up the fun in Cebu. The Sinulog festival is among the popular festivals in the Philippines where thousands come every year to witness the event. It is celebrated on the third week of January, commemorating the festival of Sto. Nino. Thousands of participants take part in this event where many people parade on the roads, dancing with colorful, traditional costumes and masks. 

This is just the taste of the many escapades of excitement that people can enjoy once they step foot on the Queen City of the South. Cebu is growing everyday, and as time passes it gets even better and more fun. As the holiday vacation comes closer to the calendar, let Cebu become an exhilarating part of your bucket list.

High quality hand-crafted guitars

By: Alyssa Marie Tecson 4

Since Cebuano’s are known to be musically inclined people. There are many singers that are from Cebu City. And some of us do not know that they are also known for making famous handcrafted classical guitars. Some of the most popular shops in Cebu are the Algre Guitar Shop and the Ferangeli Guitar Handcrafter. 

Last November 2010, I went to Cebu for a business meeting. My little brother requests me to buy him a guitar and he mention that the most of famous guitars shops are located at Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City. And the time that I look for those shops and my friends also recommend hose guitar shops. I didn’t hesitate when I bought the guitar because you can already see that the guitars they selling has a good quality. 

What I have like to this guitars are you have a freedom to customize your own instrument; you can ask them or give them some drawings or designs you want to put in your instrument. And the quality of the wood is really great.  It also has an excellent sound quality that can last longer than your usual guitars that are branded and pricey.

And until now the guitar that I have is still working and in good condition. Even though it was five years ago it looks new. And its different from the other guitar that I have bought to my brother. Normally my brothers guitars is already broken after 9 or 11 months because he really loves playing and he does this thing on his guitar were he taps it really hard, and he says its for beat. But the handcrafted guitars are different and exceptional even when he taps it really hard it will not be destroy or scratch.

I highly recommend the handcrafted guitars of Cebu because it really has a high quality that can last long. It was well made and chooses the right material. And if you really love collecting guitars I recommend for you to add this on your collection. This will be great addition to  your collection.

Dried healthy snack

By: Alyssa Marie Tecson 3

Cebu is already known for making delicious dried mangoes in the Philippines. And I'm proud to say that the best dried mango you can taste is from Cebu. The dried mangoes of Cebu are very different from the other dried mango products because of its distinct sweetness and sour taste.

Last vacation, I bought some dried mangoes from Cebu because I miss our favorite snacks since im child and until now, every time that we have a vacation in Visayas were always go to Cebu just to buy these goods and it is also good pasalubong to your  friends and family.The dried mango of Cebu is very delicious but not overly sweet and they’re super addictive one pack of dried mango is not enough cause you can't stopping eating it until you feel you're full.

Every time I eating dried mango I always remember my childhood. And there are so many reasons why I would like to thank in eating dried mangoes. Base on my own experience, when I growing up I have a healthy body because I continue eating dried mango and since it rich in vitamins C that are much needed of our body it helps me to prevent diseases and makes me strong. 

The dried mango of Cebu is a healthy snack. This snack is for all ages like kids, teenager, couple and even to your grandparents. Since its healthy snack it has a good benefits to our body.

So I recommend to all of you, this dried mangoes in Cebu. Not because it is healthy but it’s also delicious than other. That’s why Cebu considers as ‘‘famous ‘’ place of dried mangoes.

Reach for the Sky!

By: Rosario D. Guerrero 4

 

If you want to experience the thrill of being hanged on the the tallest building in Cebu, I suggest you stopped by the Crown Regency Hotel for Sky Experience Adventure. Riders are locked onto a rail seat while the Edge Coaster goes around the edge of the building. This was our last stop in Cebu and this is all worth it!

Being an adventurous person, my friends and I definitely took the Edge Coaster ride. It looks like a roller coaster but the thing is you only get to ride around the rim of the building on the 41st floor. The fact that the seat can be tilted forward up to 90 degrees making you feel like you're about to drop out of your seat, and that makes it special and exciting to ride on!

I suggest you take to ride in the evening like we did because there's no line, plus, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery and it is because of the cities stunning lights! It's kinda hard to appreciate the scenery when you're screaming your head off, Because it gives you the feeling of like falling into your seat buts hahaha! That's why you need to open your eyes and look below so that it would be definitely worth the price.

Crown Regency Hotel also offers adventures like zip line and sky walk. This is really great opportunity for the thrill-seeker and adventurous people. The entrance fee for Monday - Friday is 700php - open from 2pm till 12mn, And in Saturday & Sunday is all 700php but - open from 10am till 2am.

Be one of the bravest and craziest people by riding at Sky Experience Adventure ride. Challenge your friends, families and your fear of heights to ultimately take on this challenge! Do not miss this remarkable journey in your life!

History Fanatics

By: Rosario D. Guerrero 3

Cebu is known to have the most historical places here in the Philippines. One of those history places is the Fort san Pedro; it is built for military defense by the Spaniards. You'll see the old cannons, their headquarters and guns where they are mounted in the stones. This is a great place for photo shoot or anything.

It might look small on the outside, but it is actually quite spacious when you once entered it. The fort is just simple with a garden in the outside, a terrace, a small museum and accompanied by a historic atmosphere. It's peaceful there unlike at the busy city.

At a huge park there you will felt so comfortable during walking around. I was refreshed in the extraordinary structures. The entrance fees for regulars are 30php, Senior for 24php, lastly for students & children are 20php. You will also be guided by a tourism student or not and you can take a lot of pictures inside.

The people that are in charge of the tourism in Fort San Pedro like security officer, tourism students, etc. are very friendly and fun to talk with. One time a tourism guide offered us take picture of me and my friends then guide us on our trip there. On the outside you'll see that is just a simple place but it is really amazing when you get in, and it's because of the place historical landmarks!

This fortress has a big impact in our country's history and thus visiting this place while here in Cebu is not a waste of time. For history fanatics out there, experience this old Spanish dominated haven! The entrance fee is well worth and it is definitely a must place to visit!

Wooden Sculptures

By: Rosario D. Guerrero 2

Filipino’s are very skilled craftsman when comes to woods. In making a wood carving. you needs to require a lot of time and effort to finish one's product. A small item can take a week to create, while the larger ones are more to take months, because of it's crucial size and Cebu is very popular when comes to it.

Most of these carvings are traditional; it has been part of their culture for centuries and passed down through families.  Some of its examples are small sculptures that can be use to decorate or it can be functional. The larger pieces like life size religious carvings or furniture items are made from a large single piece of wood.

I think it’s good that Filipinos still has the tradition or old style as we our now in a modern society. Many still buy this kind of craftsmanship because it resembles our previous life style. Wood also gives us the feeling of being home even we are not in our actual homes. The small sculptures can be a perfect souvenir for your family and friends. It can be key chain, design in a bag or something, etc.

We love to invent new things that are useful to our growing economy. Of course the woods that the Cebuano are using are not illegal. They care too much for the nature to be destroyed. In fact some of the woods they are consuming are old and ready to dispose any time.

Creativity is something innate in Filipinos. If you have a skill like the Cebuano has, use it and spread it to others. As you can see nowadays, most of the teenagers don’t want to learn handicrafts or carvings because for them these are just a waste of time. That’s why our country needs more that has pleasant hands to make some carvings out of wood; it also means that we need to save our culture.

Dried Fish Heaven

By: Samuel Vicente 3

Danggit is a very famous food at Cebu. It is the favorite breakfast of Cebuanos. Their mornings couldn't be perfect without having a danggit in their breakfast. It is salted and dried under the sun to be deep fried later on. 

During my stay at Cebu, every morning! I mean is every morning! I smell this particular smell next to my window; I also hear the crackling sound that something is being deep fried. At the first week I keep on ignoring it, until I got used to the smell. One day I curiously asked the Landlord of my apartment about what she always cook every morning. She showed me this dried fish that is so flat and smelly, “its called a Danggit” she told me. 

Afterward she showed me how to cook it and let me do the rest. While frying the danggit the oil keeps on jumping out of the pan into my arms, and it hurts a lot.

She also showed me how to eat it. We have fried rice, atsara, spiced vinegar, and eggs. 

She dipped the danggit in the vinegar and got some atsara then combined with egg, lastly put in the mouth with fried rice. I tried it and I was taken in to a journey in the ocean. The saltiness of the fish was so salty that it makes you think of the sea, and then the vinegar kicks in! It will leave a “Mukasim” in you! Afterwards the atsara, egg, and rice makes a good combination to make all of the taste goes around your mouth.

This was one of the best foods I tried here in Cebu. Even though it’s just a dried fish, it will tickle your taste buds. In just a small price you will be satisfied with your breakfast, with this small fish. In this particular dish I realized that smell, looks doesn’t matter in the food. It is the taste and satisfaction it gives to the food lovers.