Tops Cebu + Top of Cebu Restaurant Food Trip with a View
Thursday, April 24, 2025
@nanaykikay Exploring @topscebu.ph this Holy Week Weekend and it did not disappoint. I will definitely be back here 😀 #topscebu #topscebucitylights #topscebucity ♬ Let's Go Explore - stay tune
Last weekend, we decided to escape the city hustle and head somewhere cooler, higher, and definitely more scenic—Top of Cebu!
Nestled on the mountainside of Busay, this spot offers a sweeping view of Cebu City from above, and honestly, it felt like we were on top of the world. The fresh mountain breeze, the lush greenery, and the perfect golden hour made our little getaway feel magical.
Getting There
The drive up was smooth, and the kids loved watching the view change as we ascended. Pro tip: make sure your camera (or phone!) is charged because the scenery on the way is already picture-perfect. Parking was available and secure, and we appreciated how everything felt clean and well-maintained.
Cebu from a New Perspective
When we reached the viewpoint, it was like time slowed down. You could see the entire city skyline, Mactan Island, and even as far as Bohol on a clear day. We took tons of photos—definitely Instagram-worthy! The air was cooler up there, so it was refreshing especially for the little ones who’ve had enough of the city heat lately.
Dining at Top of Cebu Restaurant
Of course, our trip wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the local favorite, Top of Cebu Restaurant. Known for their Filipino-fusion menu and spectacular sunset dining, this place lived up to the hype.
What We Ate – A Feast to Remember
We wanted to try something flavorful and festive—and Top of Cebu didn’t disappoint!
Fiesta Fried Rice
True to its name, this rice dish was a party on a plate! Colorful, savory, and packed with bits of vegetables, egg, and meat—perfectly seasoned to complement any main dish. It was hearty, satisfying, and one order is enough for two already. This costs around Php130.00
Sisig Gambas
This dish was the surprise star of our meal! Imagine the bold, crispy flavors of classic meaty sisig combined with juicy, garlicky shrimp—served sizzling hot. The mix of textures and that slight spicy kick made it super addicting. A must-try for seafood lovers looking for something with a twist! This one is my fave there. Its priced at Php230.00
Chicken Gata
Comfort food, elevated. This creamy chicken stew simmered in coconut milk had that rich, homecooked taste with a restaurant-quality touch. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked, with just the right hint of spice and sweetness from the gata. It paired so well with the Fiesta Fried Rice that we were all scraping the bowl! I loved this one two, its priced at around 300 plus pesos.
We had watermelon shake and mango shake for our drinks.
We dined al fresco, with the city lights sparkling below us. The ambiance was dreamy, and the service was warm and attentive. Bonus: We enjoyed open space and the cool air kept everyone comfy.
If you're looking for a romantic date night, a family escape, or even a spot to take your guests from out of town—Top of Cebu ticks all the boxes. Scenic, serene, and satisfying in every way.
Whether you’re from Cebu or just visiting, this is a must-experience destination. Just bring a light jacket, an empty stomach, and your favorite people.
Weekend Bonding at Parkmall Cebu Food Finds & Family Fun!
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Part 1 of Our Family Bonding & Foodie Adventures in Cebu
Hey there, fellow moms and fellow weekend warriors! ❤️
Welcome to the start of our Family Bonding & Foodie Adventures in Cebu blog series! We're a family of five who absolutely loves finding new places to hang out, enjoy good food, and create fun memories together. Whether it’s a spontaneous food trip, a relaxing day out, or a simple stroll, we’re all about making every weekend count.
This past weekend, we spent our family day at Parkmall Cebu—and it did not disappoint! From chill open-air spaces to a wide range of food spots, Parkmall gave us the perfect setting for quality bonding time and some serious food discoveries.
What We Loved About Parkmall
Parkmall has this laid-back, family-friendly vibe that made our whole day feel relaxed and unhurried.
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The kids had space to move around and enjoy without the usual mall crowd stress.
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Us parents? We got to sneak in some quiet coffee time while the kids were entertained (big win!).
Our Favorite Food Finds at Parkmall
Here’s where the magic happened—the food trip! We discovered so many new food spots worth coming back to:
Yang Hero – Craving some crispy, flavorful Chinese-style chicken? Yang Hero served up juicy wings and satisfying rice meals that our whole fam enjoyed.
Banh Mi Kitchen – A quick bite that packs a punch! Their Vietnamese sandwiches were crunchy, fresh, and full of flavor. Great for on-the-go munching or a light lunch option.
Hukad – For that homey Filipino feast, Hukad always delivers. We shared their crispy pata, sinigang, and unlimited rice (because, yes, we’re that kind of family 😂). Their halo-halo also hit the spot!
Pickup Coffee – Before heading home, we grabbed our caffeine fix from Pickup Coffee. Affordable, smooth, and strong—just what this mom needed after chasing toddlers all afternoon!
(We’ll be doing mini reviews of each place in future blog posts, so watch out for that too! )
Why This Day Meant So Much
More than just eating good food, what really made this day special was the time we spent together. No screens, no pressure—just the five of us enjoying each other’s company, one bite and belly laugh at a time.
Up Next on the Blog:
We’ll be breaking down each of these food spots—what we ordered, what we loved, and why you should try them too! Plus, we’re checking out more family-friendly spots in Cebu soon.
Got any recommendations for our next family food trip? Leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you!
Cebu Pacific Air Direct Flights from Mactan to Ho Chi Minh
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Embarking on a journey from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City has become more accessible and affordable, thanks to Cebu Pacific Air's direct flights. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip.
Flight Schedule and Duration
Cebu Pacific operates direct flights from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) approximately three times a week. The flights typically depart in the evening, around 8:45 PM, and arrive in Ho Chi Minh City by 10:55 PM, making the journey approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes long. Tripadvisor+6Skyscanner+6Flights+6Trip.com
Ticket Prices
One-way fares for this route can start as low as $54, depending on the booking date and availability. Round-trip tickets are available from approximately $157. To secure the best deals, it's advisable to book in advance and remain flexible with your travel dates.
Booking Tips
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Advance Purchase: Airlines often release their best fares when flights are first listed. Booking several months ahead can lead to significant savings. credits: Skyscanner
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Flexible Dates: Utilize tools like the 'Whole Month' feature on booking platforms to identify the cheapest days to fly. Skyscanner
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Price Alerts: Set up notifications on travel websites to be informed of fare drops or special promotions. Trip.com+1Cheapflights+1
Onboard Experience
As a low-cost carrier, Cebu Pacific offers budget-friendly fares, which means certain amenities might not be included in the base price:
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Seating: Standard seating is provided, with options to upgrade for additional legroom at an extra cost.
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Meals: In-flight meals and beverages are available for purchase. Pre-ordering meals during booking can sometimes be more economical.
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Entertainment: There might not be personal entertainment systems onboard, so consider bringing your own devices loaded with content for the journey.
Traveler Reviews
Feedback from passengers varies:Tripadvisor+2SKYTRAX+2SKYTRAX+2
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Some travelers appreciate the affordability and efficiency of Cebu Pacific's services.
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Others have noted occasional delays and limited in-flight amenities.
It's essential to set expectations accordingly and prepare for a no-frills experience.
Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport:Flights+2Skyscanner+2Trip.com+2
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Distance to City Center: The airport is approximately 5 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City.Trip.com
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Transportation: Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available, with a typical journey to the city center taking about 20 minutes.
Flying from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City with Cebu Pacific is a cost-effective option for travelers. By planning ahead, understanding the airline's service model, and preparing for the flight duration, passengers can ensure a smooth and pleasant journey.Skyscanner
Scenes to Capture in Ho Chi Minh City Using Just Your Phone
If you’re flying from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh via Cebu Pacific, you’re in for a visual treat! Saigon is packed with vibrant color, colonial charm, and a pulse that’s perfect for beginner phone photographers.
Here are must-capture spots:
1. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
📍 District 1
Shoot from a low angle to include the full twin towers. Golden hour here hits different with that French architecture.
2. Ben Thanh Market
📍 District 1
Capture the bustling energy of the market, colorful local goods, and street food scenes. Perfect for candid shots and textures.
3. Nguyen Hue Walking Street
📍 District 1
At night, this area lights up! Capture long exposure light trails or candid moments with locals and tourists.
4. Saigon Central Post Office
📍 District 1
It looks straight out of Europe. Use symmetry and gridlines to frame the gorgeous yellow building and the tiled floors inside.
5. The Cafe Apartments
📍 42 Nguyen Hue
A famous photo spot—a pastel-colored building filled with quirky coffee shops stacked on top of each other. Zoom out and shoot wide!
6. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
📍 District 10
Early morning is best! Catch flower vendors in action and soft lighting on vibrant petals.
7. Starlight Bridge (Cau Anh Sao)
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| travelsaigon.org |
📍 District 7
Go during the evening when the LED bridge lights up in different colors, reflecting off the water. Perfect for experimenting with night mode!
8. Saigon River Walk
📍 Bitexco Tower area
For moody cityscapes and reflections on the water, the river walk at dusk offers endless possibilities.
9. Local Alley Cafés
📍 All over Saigon
From retro to minimalist, tiny cafés with character are tucked into alleys everywhere. Great for aesthetic shots of food, coffee, and interiors.
Cebu SBKZ International Festival 2025
Cebu, Philippines – The Cebu SBKZ International Festival 2025 is bringing the world to Cebu from April 11-13, turning Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa into a paradise of rhythm, movement, and cultural exchange. More than just a festival, this is a historic moment for Asia’s Latin dance scene, featuring the continent’s first-ever Kizomba concert and a lineup of world-class artists ready to deliver an unforgettable experience.
A Tropical Dance Festival Like No Other
Since 2018, Cebu SBKZ has been the go-to event for dancers across the globe, offering more than just workshops and socials. This year’s highlights include
Cebu, Philippines – The Cebu SBKZ International Festival 2025 is bringing the world to Cebu from April 11-13, turning Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa into a paradise of rhythm, movement, and cultural exchange. More than just a festival, this is a historic moment for Asia’s Latin dance scene, featuring the continent’s first-ever Kizomba concert and a lineup of world-class artists ready to deliver an unforgettable experience.
A Tropical Dance Festival Like No Other
Since 2018, Cebu SBKZ has been the go-to event for dancers across the globe, offering more than just workshops and socials. This year’s highlights include
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| photo credits (Emma Villarente) |
Asia’s First-Ever Kizomba Concert, headlined by Mr. Energy Na Casa (Czech Republic) 💃 24+ hours of workshops and bootcamps with internationally renowned instructors 🎉 Eight themed parties, including a Grand Gala Night with dinner and performances 🌴 Two dance floors—one for Salsa & Bachata, and another for Kizomba & Zouk 🛍️ Festival Bazaar, showcasing global and local brands.
A Global Dance Community Unites in Cebu
Bringing together top artists from Cuba, Brazil, Japan, Korea, Australia, India, New Zealand, and the Philippines, Cebu SBKZ 2025 features dance icons like Rau & Isa , Nari & Garion, Monika & Victor, Armando Torres-Paez, and more.
“We’re not just hosting a festival—we’re making history,” says Coach Jilly, founder of Cebu Salsa Club. “This is about passion, culture, and connection. If you love to dance, you need to be here.”
Be Part of the SBKZ Legacy
Cebu SBKZ 2025 isn’t just another dance festival—it’s a milestone for Latin dance in Asia. With limited passes available, now is the time to secure your spot.
Get your tickets at www.CebuSalsaClub.com and experience the most thrilling weekend of the year.
The Cebu SBKZ International Festival 2025 is set to take over Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa from April 11-13, offering a one-of-a-kind experience where dance, music, and tropical paradise collide.
Now in its fifth edition, the festival continues to attract dancers from across the globe for workshops, epic parties, and a historic first for Asia—the continent’s first-ever Kizomba concert.
Why This Festival Stands Out
🌊 Asia’s First-Ever Kizomba Concert featuring Mr. Energy Na Casa from Czech Republic 💃 World-class workshops & bootcamps with top artists from over 10 countries 🎶 Eight electrifying parties, including a Grand Gala Night with performances and dinner 🌴 Two dance floors: Salsa & Bachata | Kizomba & Zouk 🎉 Unforgettable themes: Denim & Diamonds, Cultural Night, and Halo-Halo Colors
Dancers and music lovers alike will be treated to an international lineup, featuring Rau & Isa (Brazil), Armando Torres-Paez (Cuba/Japan), Monika & Victor (Japan/USA/Russia), Nari & Garion (Korea), and many more.
“This is more than a festival—it’s a movement,” says Coach Jilly, founder of Cebu Salsa Club. “We’re bringing together people from all over the world to celebrate dance, music, and cultural exchange in one of the most breathtaking destinations in Asia.”
Passes are selling fast—don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event.
🎟 Get tickets now at www.CebuSalsaClub.com
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