The Epic Escape: Cebu City & Bantayan Island with the Ultimate Travel Crew
February 10, 2023 — Cebu, Philippines
If there’s one trip that hit every single mark — adventure, culture, food, fun, and island paradise — this was it. Our journey through Cebu City and Bantayan Island was the kind of experience that doesn’t just live in your camera roll... it lives in your soul.
With the best people by our side, we turned this getaway into an all-out, high-energy, feel-everything kind of adventure. And guess what? It was EPIC from start to finish.
Cebu City: Grand Sights, Street Feasts & City Legends
Our journey started in Cebu City, where every corner has a story, and every stop brings a surprise. We walked through history at Magellan’s Cross and the Santo Niño Basilica, got a little dramatic at the ancient Fort San Pedro, and felt like explorers as we uncovered the roots of Cebu’s past.
Then we climbed to the peaceful Taoist Temple, where we lit incense, made wishes, and soaked in panoramic views of the city below. It felt like a quick escape into another world — peaceful, colorful, and quietly powerful.
But nothing prepared us for the grandeur of the Temple of Leah. Massive pillars. Marble statues. Gold accents. It was like stepping into a scene from Gladiator or Game of Thrones. Every corner screamed photo op, and every minute up there felt royal.
As the sky began to change, we headed to 10,000 Roses Café in Cordova — and watched the field of glowing white roses come alive under a cotton-candy sky. With the sea breeze in the air and chill music playing, it was straight-up magical.
And just when we thought the day couldn’t get better… Larsian BBQ happened. Smoke in the air, sizzling skewers everywhere, and tables packed with friends going all in on pork, chorizo, seafood, and the legendary puso. It wasn’t just dinner — it was a feast, a food war, and a flavor party all in one.
Bantayan Island: Pure Paradise, Nonstop Fun
Next stop: Bantayan Island — and wow, paradise doesn’t even begin to describe it. One ferry ride later, we were stepping onto soft white sand, greeted by clear turquoise waters and island vibes so good they felt unreal.
The island gave us everything: chill mornings, wild adventures, and moments that felt like they belonged in a travel documentary.
We hopped on a boat and cruised through the sea, stopping at Virgin Island for snorkeling, swimming, and the freshest grilled seafood right on the sand. The laughter? Nonstop. The views? Out of this world.
We jumped into the cool, crystal waters of Ogtong Cave, and it felt like discovering a hidden gem — refreshing, fun, and totally unexpected.
And for that touch of comedy and movie magic? We made a stop at the one and only Camp Sawi. Whether you’ve been heartbroken or just wanted to reenact a dramatic teleserye scene (guilty!), it was a hilarious, must-visit moment. We posed under the “Welcome to Camp Sawi” sign, shared laughs, and created fake break-up scenes that had us crying — from laughter, not heartbreak.
Back in Santa Fe, we biked along peaceful roads, danced in the sand at sunset, and found quiet cafés to chill, connect, and just be in the moment.
Our last stop was the beautiful Bantayan Church — peaceful, historic, and the perfect place to reflect before heading back home.
Why This Trip Was More Than Just a Vacation
This wasn’t just a trip — this was a full-on, all-in, life-is-meant-to-be-lived adventure. Every second was packed with joy, energy, and that unbeatable feeling of being alive and surrounded by people who matter.
From city lights to island nights, from temples to caves, BBQs to boat rides — we did it all. And we did it together.
So if you’re planning your next escape and want something that's not just beautiful, but epic, soul-filling, and insanely enjoyable, take our word for it:
Cebu City and Bantayan Island are calling.
And when you go — don’t just visit. Live it. Feel it. Own it.
By: Meme Borja
