Cebu Quick Facts

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 educations.

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 seasons begins in July bringing torrential downpours that would sometimes inhibit movements.

Philippine Time
Philippine Standard Time is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Meantime.

Dress/What to Bring
Wear natural-fiber, lightweight clothing. You'll feel more comfortable. Bring shorts, hat, sunglasses, bathing suits, insect repellent, flashlight, sun block cream, tough shoes for walking, rubber slippers for the beach.

The Barong Tagalog is the acceptable formal wear for men. Shorts or sleeveless shirts should never be worn when visiting churches, mosques or temples.

Electrical
Most areas in Cebu are supplied with 220 volts, 60 cycles. A plug with 2 flat parallel prongs is the norm.

Money
The Philippine currency is peso, divided into 100 centavos. Next to the peso, the US dollar enjoys wide acceptance. Most foreign currencies can easily be changed at banks, hotels, and authorized dealers. Foreign currency is not readily taken by establishments in Cebu. Major foreign credit cards may be accepted only at mjor hotels, resorts, shops and restaurants. Visitors are advised to bring sufficient amount of change is small bills or coins.

Business Hours
Banks - 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday; Government agencies and offices - 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday; Private firms - 9am to 7pm Monday to Saturday. Most department stores stay open on Sundays and holidays.

Tipping
Bellhops expect a tip, as do waiters, taxi drivers, haidressers, beauticians, and porters. Most hotels and restaurants add 10% service charge on top of the government tax. Tipping 5-15% of the bill 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. Tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) are popular in outlaying areas and in the suburbs, quiet notably within Mactan Island. Taxicabs are widely available.