Dumaguete, Negros Island

Cebu is a thin sliver of an island surrounded by clear, unspoiled waters. It's no surprise, then, that all over the island there are dozens of international standard beach resorts where you can swim, snorkel, windsurf or dive. And the best thing about Cebu is that many of the beaches and resorts are only about an hour's drive from downtown, so you can snorkel by day and dress for cocktails at night. Mactan island offers resort facilities and some of the best diving spots in the country. Mactan is a huge coral island that's only a short distance from the mainland and is equally famous for rope and guitar making. But the eastern coast is virtual paradise for residents and tourists as well: here you will find some of the best white beaches in the country, many of which have been developed as top-rate resorts.

Cebu is the diving centre of the Philippines with magnificent coral formations, spectacular marine life and drop-offs plunging to blue nothingness. Fine weather all year round makes Cebu a favourite for water sports. Swim, snorkel & dive; windsurf, sail or ski; ride the waves, stroll along the beach, get a glorious tan. Revel in Cebu's sun, sand, sea & sky.

Cebu is the gateway in central and southern Philippines and is the country's favourite tourist destination. It is also a jumped-off point for tourists whose itinerary includes the neighbouring islands of the Visayas and Mindanao. Cebu's Mactan International Airport stands as the best in the country today. Cebu boosts of many world-class hotels and beach resorts and many more are on the drawing board.

Cebu is best from December - May when the weather turns dry. It is coolest from December - February, hottest from March - May. Temperature can rise higher than 100ºF in the summer. The rainy season begins in July bringing torrential downpours that would sometimes inhibit movement.