Everything Felt Perfect: My Travel Diary in Cebu, Mactan

🏨 The Reef Mactan – If Only This Were My Home

The view that greeted me upon check-in was like a painting. The infinity pool at The Reef Hotel stretched out towards the sea, and the breeze flowed gently through the window of my room.

Without even changing into my swimsuit, I lay on the bed and thought, "This is what true relaxation feels like..." staring at the ceiling. I stayed like that for a while—doing absolutely nothing felt so blissful.

🍗 Jollibee – My First Taste of Local Flavor

As soon as I unpacked, I rushed to Jollibee. I was curious about the fast-food chain that’s a national favorite in the Philippines, and the taste was intriguing.

Sweet Joy Chicken + gravy sauce + spaghetti—a combination I’d never experienced in Korea. It was addictively unique, a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

🦞 The Cove Restaurant & Coconut – Dinner with a View

At sunset, I visited The Cove Restaurant near my accommodation. Dining while gazing at the sea wasn’t just a meal—it was the grand finale of the day.

Fresh seafood platters, chilled coconut drinks, and a sky painted with sunset hues. Words couldn’t capture the moment. I took photos, but the memories are even more vivid.

🏝️ Island Hopping Tour – Exploring the Waters

The next day was all about activities—an island-hopping tour! I boarded a small boat and ventured into the sea, snorkeling to meet tropical fish face-to-face, sipping San Miguel beer on deck while reapplying sunscreen.

I landed near a small island to bask in the sunlight. Blue skies, blue seas, and the feeling of floating on the waves—it was pure magic.

🌧️ Rainy Evening at the Night Market – A Romantic Touch

In the afternoon, sudden rain poured down like a tropical squall. It seemed to stop, only to start again, but the weather made me smile as I walked without an umbrella.

I arrived at Mactan Night Market, drenched but happy. The sizzling barbecue, mango juice on plastic-covered tables—the unique charm of a rainy night market lingered deeply.

🍫 Snack Time at the Hotel – The Day’s Closing Credits

Back at the hotel, after a shower, I lay on the bed with the air conditioner on, pulling out dried mango chips and Jim Beam cola from the convenience store.

I reflected on the day. I hadn’t walked excessively or forced myself to do anything, yet I felt completely fulfilled.

Outside, the sound of waves; inside, the hum of the air conditioner; and in my mouth, the sweet taste of mango.

🐚 Cebu: An Island That Sets Your Heart Free

Here, even resting felt like traveling. It wasn’t overwhelming, which made it even better, and the slow pace left a deeper impression.

The days I spent in Cebu will stay longer in my heart than in my camera.