Book a trip from Chicago to Cebu with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD1,503

From the airport, you will have multiple transportation options from the airport to reach downtown. Taxis are convenient and take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Public buses are a more affordable choice if you prefer a more scenic route, with travel times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Start your exploration with Magellan's Cross, a historic site that symbolizes the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. This ornate cross is housed in a small chapel and is a great spot for photos, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history of the area. Nearby, you can visit the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, home to the country's oldest religious relic. The basilica features stunning architecture and a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals. While exploring these sites, enjoy the lively streets of Cebu, filled with local shops, eateries, and markets offering delicious regional delicacies such as lechon and fresh seafood.

If you’re looking to add some excitement to your trip, consider swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. Just a short trip from the city, Oslob is renowned for its friendly whale shark encounters, allowing travelers to get up close and personal with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The experience begins with a guided boat trip that takes you to the feeding area, where you can witness the incredible sight of whale sharks gliding gracefully through the water. Snorkeling alongside these awe-inspiring creatures is a unique opportunity, offering a thrilling blend of excitement and serenity as you observe their majestic movements.

Finish your holiday at the Sirao Flower Farm, often referred to as the "Little Amsterdam of Cebu." This picturesque flower farm is nestled in the mountain region of Cebu, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. When you arrive at Sirao Flower Farm, you can wander through rows of vibrant celosia flowers, creating a stunning backdrop for your holiday photos. The farm features various flowers, including sunflowers, roses, and even seasonal blooms, offering a delightful experience throughout the year. Take your time exploring the beautifully manicured gardens, and breathe in the fragrant air filled with the scent of blossoms.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the best hotels. Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan is a luxurious beach resort located in one of Cebu's most popular tourist spots, offering a splendid getaway with stunning ocean views and an array of amenities. This resort features a variety of accommodations, including Private Pool Villas, Beach Villas, and Deluxe Rooms, all designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation. Nearby, travelers can explore snorkeling and diving spots to discover vibrant marine life, visit historical landmarks like the Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro, or enjoy island-hopping tours to Cebu's surrounding islands. If you prefer a budget alternative, Crowne Garden Hotel, located on Salinas Drive in Lahug, Cebu City, offers an affordable and comfortable option. This budget-friendly hotel features a range of accommodations, accommodating groups of various sizes, from twin-sharing to sextuple-sharing rooms, making it ideal for families and friends traveling together. The hotel's prime location ensures easy access to popular attractions. Just a ride away, you'll find Asiatown IT Park, known for its diverse food choices and vibrant nightlife. In addition, shopping enthusiasts can visit Ayala Center Cebu and SM City Cebu, both located within 10-15 minutes from the hotel. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Cebu entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. The Pig & Palm is a distinguished dining destination in Cebu, brought to life by renowned chef Jason Atherton and his wife, Irha. Nestled in the vibrant Cebu Business Park, this restaurant combines modern Spanish tapas with a strong emphasis on locally sourced pork dishes. The menu offers a delightful array of dishes to share, reflecting the culinary creativity of head chef Jamie Doe. You can indulge in Chef's Snacks like Smoked Pork Empanada with miso mayo or the popular Lapu Lapu Ceviche with coconut and mango. Main courses include succulent steaks, like the 300g Kitayama Hybrid Wagyu, and seafood options, such as the Steamed Snapper accompanied by a pomelo butter sauce. Be sure to try their inventive pasta dishes, including The Pig & Palm Lasagne and Linguine Nero with clams and prawns. If you’re in the mood for Cantonese flavors, Harbour City Dimsum offers a dining experience reminiscent of Hong Kong's iconic tea houses. This restaurant is known for its classic dim sum served in the traditional style, where servers wheel delightful food carts filled with an array of enticing selections right to your table. The menu features a wide variety of classics, including steamed dumplings like shrimp har gou and pork sio mai, as well as pan-fried treats such as radish cake and spring rolls. For those craving something heartier, the menu also includes flavorful dishes like Spicy Steamed Fried Rice as well as Yang Chow Fried Rice.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Cebu.

• Currency: Philippine Peso (₱, PHP). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V Types A, B, and C
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Language: Cebuano