Mactan Island: Ideal mix of urban, rural
The rising level of urbanization has both push and pull forces coming from cities. Urban dwellers often travel to provinces for a quick getaway from the frenzied city life, while those living in the provinces flock to cities for better opportunities. Mactan Island can offer that unique duality of urban and rural experiences, making it among the most ideal addresses.
The rising level of urbanization has both push and pull forces coming from cities. Urban dwellers often travel to provinces for a quick getaway from the hustles and bustles of the city life, while those living in the provinces flock to the cities for better living opportunities.
Indeed, choosing where to live is a difficult choice. Should I leave everything behind for a peaceful, provincial life where I wake up to a stunning view of the beach every day? Or should I just go back to the concrete jungle where everything is accessible in just a few steps?
Fortunately, a few locations in the country get to offer the duality of urban and rural life and Mactan Island is among them.
ACCESSIBLE TO LOCAL, FOREIGN VISITORS
Going to Cebu via air travel, the first place you’ll set foot on is Mactan. This city opens its doors to foreign and local tourists alike as it houses the locally-inspired, yet worldclass Mactan Cebu International Airport. A warm Cebuano welcome awaits you upon stepping off the plane.
Traveling in and out should be easy for backpackers and businessmen alike given the regular local and international flights. Mactan may also be reached via sea and land travel. Though no direct modes of sea transportation are available from Manila, vessels may dock at nearby ports. Coming from Cebu City, different modes of public transport are accessible as well. The main airport of Cebu is in Mactan, after all.
As for traveling within the city itself, usual PUVS such as tricycles, jeepneys, buses and taxis ply Mactan’s roads.
BUSINESS, BUSINESS, BUSINESS
Aside from Metro Manila, Cebu province is easily one of the top choices of companies and business process outsourcing (BPOS) companies looking for new locations. The crowded streets of Cebu City pave the way for setting up office easily, all leading to a bustling business climate in Mactan Island.
Economic zones, office buildings, shopping malls, and businessmen dressed up in formal clothing make up the urban life in Mactan Island.
If you’re too afraid of leaving the corporate life, your career path may be sought in the city’s business districts as various employment opportunities are available. The work life wouldn’t be complete without after-work drinking with your colleagues as pubs and bars also fill the city’s nightlife.
BEACH PLEASE!
With the beach just a few minutes away from Mactan, you can have those much-needed vacation weekends all-year round. Cebu is popular for its pristine, white sand beaches as well as resorts and Mactan is literally surrounded by them. Even if you already have a place of your own in the city, you can still take advantage of the resorts with the services they have to offer. You have the option of just lazing around under the sun with a martini on hand or trying something new. Thrilling water activities like island hopping and jet skiing also abound.
If you think Mactan is already beautiful on land, wait until you see what’s underwater. The coastal areas outlining Mactan Island are a haven for divers. The marine sanctuaries teeming with life boast of thick coral covers and colorful fish.
Whether you are an experienced or an amateur diver, you wouldn’t want to miss out on taking a dive here. If you’re not into diving but still want to witness the marine life, snorkeling is an alternative activity.
Don’t let the tourist attractions distract you though. If you want some peace and quiet, wait for the sunset at the beach and bask in the joy of provincial living.
CULTURE AND CUISINE
Getting to know the historical background of your new place of residence adds more appreciation to it.
You can’t miss the striking, 20-meter tall bronze statue of Lapu-lapu just outside the Mactan Airport. The first Filipino hero earned his place here for his success in battling Ferdinand Magellan. Meanwhile, his opponent is also given historical recognition in the island for spreading Christianity. The Magellan Shrine can be found near the Magellan Port.
Most usually, tourists enjoy buying trinkets as souvenirs. Some of the most famous souvenirs from Cebu include ukuleles and even guitars. In particular, the Alegre Guitar Factory is highly popular for its quality craftsmanship. You can even watch how the instruments are made at the said factory.
Moving in, you also have to try the local food. Cheat meals will turn into cheat days as authentic Cebu lechon is just around the corner. Lechon found in Manila just do not do justice to this fine but sinful delicacy from Cebu. If you’re having a hard time deciding which restaurant to eat from for lechon, Rico’s Lechon is a popular choice. More restaurants may be found around the Lapu-lapu Shrine for quiet evening dinners near this heritage site.
For a unique dining experience, the Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant is definitely worth the try. It serves your favorite Filipino food amid a scenic location. Once you’ve finished dining, you can head over to the 10,000 Roses Café next door, which has been featured in numerous Instagram posts and stories.
SAFE AND QUIET STREETS
A very important factor every person wants in their neighborhood is safety. Some flock to rural areas to avoid crimes commonly found in cities. However, tourists and residents can attest to the safe streets in Mactan. They claim that they can roam around alone at night without any fear of encountering any crimes, which is reassuring for the worried mother or the adventurous night wanderer.
After getting to know your new hometown, all you want to do now is just kick back, relax and admire what this city has to offer. You won’t regret moving to Mactan Island to enjoy both urban and rural life.