Mandaue City Guide

Local dishes like Lechon, Kinilaw, and Sutukil are popular. You'll find many Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Western restaurants. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Some spots and fast food chains are open 24/7.

Nightlife is growing with bars, pubs, and karaoke spots. It's smaller than nearby Cebu City's scene but offers casual entertainment.

Coffee culture is growing with local cafes, specialty roasters, and international chains.

Tipping isn't mandatory but appreciated. Restaurants often add a service charge; 5-10% extra tip is common. Taxi tips usually mean rounding up.

You can buy SIM cards from Globe and Smart at the airport or malls. Prepaid plans are common. ID or passport is needed for registration. eSIM support is growing.

Main roads are fairly clean; smaller streets vary. Waste pickup is regular but recycling is limited.

Many 24-hour convenience stores and some late-night pharmacies. Night clinics are rare but accessible nearby.

Major supermarkets like SM Hypermarket, Rustan's, and Metro stock international goods. Fresh local produce and seafood are at Mandaue Public Market. Supermarkets run 9 AM to 9 PM, including some Sundays.

Cards are accepted in malls, supermarkets, and big restaurants. Cash is needed for small vendors, markets, and public transport like jeepneys and tricycles.

ATMs from major banks like BDO, BPI, and Metrobank are common in malls and convenience stores. Foreign card withdrawals often have fees of about 200-250 PHP.

University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu & Mandaue is a local option. International schools are mainly in Cebu City, like Cebu International School. English and Filipino are used for instruction.

The digital nomad scene is small in Mandaue but overlaps with Cebu City's community. Nomad meetups mostly happen in Cebu City.

Green spaces are limited in urban areas. Some shaded walking spots exist in commercial areas.

Running routes exist but can be affected by traffic. Safety is good in populated areas. Scenic waterfront runs are limited locally but better nearby.

Gyms and fitness centers are available, including popular chains.

Tennis courts are at private clubs and resorts around Mandaue and Cebu City, some with equipment rental.

Padel is less common but growing in the area.

Yoga studios and wellness centers offer various classes. Many instructors speak English.

Martial arts gyms offer Taekwondo, Karate, Boxing, BJJ, and Muay Thai. Some English instruction available.

No skiing options due to tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are available nearby on Mactan Island with rental and guided tour options.

No surfing in Mandaue itself. Surf spots are on other islands requiring travel.

No dive sites in Mandaue but near Mactan Island, which offers many dive resorts and certification centers. Dive sites suit beginners and advanced divers.

Hospitals like Chong Hua and Perpetual Succour have English-speaking staff. Private hospitals usually provide better care. Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Rose Pharmacy are common and often open late.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés are mostly within malls. Baby supplies are easy to find. Nearby attractions include Skywaterpark Cebu and mall play areas.

Generally tolerant and safe. Legal protections are growing. Pride events are bigger in Cebu City.

Pet policies vary. Veterinary services and supply stores are available. Pet-friendly places are increasing but still not universal.