If you’re into travelling while studying, Cebu Blue Ocean Academy is the recommended place for you. It motivates students to study and relax once in a while. The academy is equipped with resort facilities like swimming pool and is located in the majestic island of Mactan.
Aside from swimming and sun-bathing, there are other activities you should try and may add on your bucket list when you choose to study English in Cebu. Follow our 5- point guide to maximize your stay.
Number 1: Mercato De Mactan – Eat your fill <3
The best way to enjoy traveling is having a massive food trip, and this could be done in a cheaper way through the open food market. The school is approximately 2.8km away from Mercato De Mactan, and it only takes 8-10 minutes depending on your mode of transportation and traffic situation. Mercato de Mactan is open from Thursday- Sunday, from 5pm- 1am.
Hang out and chill with friends at Mercato de Mactan and choose from wide range of food like lechon, grilled seafood, pork steak and more. There are also various drinks you can choose from such as fruit shakes or smoothies (you have to try the Mango shakeJ), lemonade, etc. It doesn’t stop there folks. A live band spices up the evening, and you can also request a special song or jam with the singers.
Price Range
Seafood: 130 -200php (with 1 cup of iced tea)
Famous Cebu’s Lechon: ¼ = 157.50php / ½ = 315php (good for 2 persons)
Number 2: Travel through time at Mactan Shrine
Include visiting historical places on your list, for it is an elevating experience! It is like traveling through time and learning something new about the city. Mactan Shrine is a must-see attraction because it tells a story about Lapu- Lapu who ruled the island and Magellan who wanted to conquer the region. Want more interesting stories? Travel through time at Mactan Shrine.
Entrance fee: Free
*Note: Bring extra budget if you’re planning to buy some souvenirs as there are souvenir shops within the area
Number 3: Neri’s Ville Selfie Corner – Trip to Bali, Indonesia and Hobbiton New Zealand
You don’t have to fly to Indonesia or New Zealand to see famous attractions like Wanagiri Hidden Hills or Hobbiton Village. On the outskirts of Cebu City, you’ll find Neri’s Ville, a tourist spot inspired by Wanagiri Hidden Hills and “Hobbit Houses”. It is an incredible place to take selfies as the site is surrounded by picturesque scenery that serves as your backdrop. It may be a little bit far from the city but every minute spent on the road is going to be worth it once you’ve reached the place. You have to bring with you some snacks as there is no restaurant in the place. Nevertheless, there’s a vendor that sells water, soda and local snack, banana cue. Enjoy taking selfies! <3
Operating hours: 8am – 7pm, Monday – Friday
Entrance fee: 50php (per person)
Number 4: Sirao Flower Garden (Pictorial Garden and Camping Site – PGCS)
Another location to take photos for your social media feed is in Sirao PGCS. There are several spots to take those outstanding shots; taking picture with the flowers is amazing itself. 😉 In addition, you need to go there with a friend as you’ll need a photographer to take your pictures especially when you climb that giant hand and the tree with big nests. A lot of people visit the garden so it is better for you to go there earlier to avoid the crowd. Take note also that food and drinks are not allowed inside.
Entrance fee: 60php (per person)
Number 5: Temple of Leah – Testimony of Undying Love
The temple was built as a testament to the undying love of a man, Teodorico Adarna, to his late wife for 53 years, Leah. Built on top of a hill in Barangay Busay, the temple’s courtyard gives the tourists a grand view of Cebu City. It was designed after the ancient Roman architecture: with Doric columns and Grecian statues.
Entrance Fee: 50php (per person)
There is so much more in Cebu, therefore don’t limit yourself when it comes to exploring the city. Take time to enjoy while studying English in Cebu Blue Ocean Academy. Travelling in Cebu is a practical way to practice your English skills as most people you’re going to encounter outside can speak English. Enjoy exploring!