Wear naturalfibre, lightweight clothing. You'll feel more comfortable. Bring shorts, hat sunglasses, bathing suit, insect repellent, flashlight, sun block cream, tough shoes for walking, rubber slippers for the beach. Pack tissue paper in your purse as public toilets almost never have any. The Barong Tagalog is acceptable formal wear for men. Shorts or sleeveless shirts should never be worn when visiting churches, mosques or temples.

Most areas in Cebu are supplied with 220 volts, 60 cycles. A plug with 2 flat parallel prongs is the norm.

The Philippine currency is peso, divided into 100 centavos. Next to the peso, the US dollar enjoys wide acceptance. Most foreign currencies can easily be changed at banks, hotels, and authorized dealers. Foreign currency is not readily taken by the establishments in Cebu. Major foreign creditcards may be accepted only at major hotels, resorts, shops and restaurants. Visitors are advised to bring sufficient amount of change in small bills or coins.

Banks - 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday; government agencies and offices - 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday; private firms - 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, 9am to 12noon Saturday; Shops - 9am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday. Most department stores stay open on Sundays and holidays.

Bellhops expect a tip, as do waiters, taxi drivers, hairdressers, beauticians, and porters. Most hotels and restaurants add 10% service charge on top of the government tax. Tipping 5 15% of the bill appropriate if no service charge is included. P5 to P10 for bellboys, porters and like.

Getting around Cebu one may take a colorful jeepney or a bus at a minimal fare Tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) are popular in outlaying areas and in the suburbs, quiet notably within Mactan Island. Taxicabs are widely available.