Mandaue: Highly Urbanized Gem in Southern Philippines
Mandaue, Philippines is located close to the industrial hubs of Lapu-Lapu and Mactan Island. It is in itself a highly urbanized city, and is known as both the Industrial Capital of Southern Philippines and the Furniture Capital of the Philippines. Tourists can enter the city through either the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, which is 23 minutes away, or via the Tagbilaran Airport, which is a 3-hour journey from the city. There are plenty of business-oriented Mandaue hotels and leisure resorts to choose from.
Best Time to Visit
Tourists should schedule a trip to Mandaue, Philippines in the first and second week of May to experience the fun and exciting Mantawi Festival, which features the city’s rich heritage and bountiful cultural gifts. Travelers should also consider visiting the city in December to experience the best of the Philippine holiday season. September and October sees lower crowd turnouts because of the occasional monsoons, and tourists can take advantage of lower hotel rates during this time.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Families with kids will find plenty of fun activities at the St. James Amusement Park, which features carousel rides as well as interactive booths. Lake Sebu is a popular spot among outdoor enthusiasts with its boating and fishing offerings. Tourists can head to J Centre Mall for some retail therapy. The mall can be reached via a taxi or tricycle ride, and it has a collection of local restaurants with regional dishes that tourists should sample. The Bai Hotel Cebu is a 4-star hotel that features a rooftop pool and bar and offers free breakfasts. Other accommodation options include Castle Peak Hotel and The Orchard Cebu Hotel & Suites.