Maria Katrina Paras

Article (news)

Cebu Wellness Travel Itinerary

<p><strong>Cebu </strong>has always been one of those cities that I look forward to visiting. The energy is warm, the food is always worth the trip, and there’s this easy pace that’s both exciting and comforting. For my recent trip, I decided to build it around wellness (it’s the<em> trentahin</em> in me). And Cebu’s healthy lifestyle scene is just perfect for the reset.</p><p>We started at<strong> </strong><a href="http://marcopolohotels.com/en/marco-polo-plaza-cebu/offers" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Marco Polo Plaza Cebu</strong></a>, still my top-of-mind hotel-on-a-hill whenever I visit the city. The property is currently undergoing renovation, but what I appreciated was how seamless everything still felt. No chaos, no interruptions. The establishment&#x27;s flow remains calm and organized, ensuring a smooth stay. Not to mention, the service and hospitality are always on point. </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782735142631Marco Polo Cebu.jpg" style="width:700px;display:block;height:auto" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">I always get a good night’s sleep on Marco Polo’s beds.</span></span></span></div><p>Our <strong>suite</strong> was spacious and comfy, with classic hotel vibes that were still very pleasant, plus sweeping views of the city. It has a receiving area, a dining area with a complimentary fruit platter upon our arrival, a kitchen, and two toilets and baths. The suite has two entertainment screens (in the bedroom and the receiving area), a study table, and a wardrobe in the bedroom. The automated toilets in both bathrooms were a plus and came with complete toiletries— small details, but it makes travel feel more convenient. </p><div> </div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782735366828Marco Polo Cebu 2.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner"> Our suite’s receiving area is comfy, perfect for morning lounging.</span></span></span></div><p>Lately, I’ve been committed to my fitness journey; hence, despite the hecticness of traveling, it was time to move. I’m now more appreciative of hotels that make it easy to stay consistent. Marco Polo’s gym was fully equipped, and we got in a good workout (thanks, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpQ34afVgk8cRQBjSJ1xuJQ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">MadFit</a>). I like that they were thoughtful enough to provide fresh towelettes and a cold water dispenser. It’s these little things that make a big difference. </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782735777426Marco Polo Cebu Gym.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Fully equipped gym in the basement of Marco Polo Cebu </span></span></span></div><p>After our sweat sesh, we cooled down by the pool and ordered from<strong> El Viento</strong>, the hotel’s Italian poolside dining spot. This was the kind of post-workout meal that reminded me wellness does not have to look sad. We had fresh juices for nourishment (I’m a classic OJ girl), the Marco Polo <strong>signature pizza with artichoke, eggs, and salami</strong>, a juicy gourmet <strong>cheeseburger</strong>, and the <strong>Norwegian salmon steak </strong>served over <strong>creamy mashed potatoes with vegetable</strong>s on the side. Talk about protein maxxing. It was satisfying and still balanced enough to feel good and satiated.   </p><div> </div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782735983064Marco Polo Cebu 3.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner"> Poolside cool down with a delicious grub from El Viento</span></span></span></div><p>Now it’s finally time to recharge. That evening, we chose to stay in and try the hotel’s in-room massage service. We booked the hot stone therapy, which was exactly what our tired muscles needed after travel and a workout. The warmth helped soothe the body, and the convenience of not having to leave the room made it even better. Instead of forcing ourselves to explore immediately, we chose rest. Sometimes, the first day of a trip should simply be about arriving.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736086043Marco Polo Cebu 4.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Café Marco offers an extensive international selection of dishes, beverages, and pastries for its breakfast buffet.</span></span></span></div><p>The next morning began with fuel. Before our fitness and wellness plans, we needed the right nutrients to burn, and Café Marco, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, had us covered. The buffet breakfast was extensive, with cheeses, salads, sushi rolls (who says rolls have a specific time of day?), eggs, meats, pastries, and local favorites. I went for New York-style sausage with scrambled eggs, but since we were in Cebu, I could not skip the <em>danggit-champorado</em> combo. It was a strategic breakfast because we were scheduled for a bouncy workout, something I’ve never tried before.</p><div><br/></div><p>Enter:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/youngcha.wellness/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong> YoungCha Studio</strong></a>&#x27;s Bungee Physio Class.</p><p>I first discovered it through my friend’s Instagram stories. He was strapped into ropes around his waist, bouncing off the floor and doing what looked like training for Cirque du Soleil artists. Music was blasting, everyone seemed to be flying, and the whole thing looked ridiculously fun. Naturally, it piqued my curiosity.</p><p>When we arrived at YoungCha, the studio instantly felt bright and inviting. The space had strong <strong>K-vibes</strong>—floor-to-ceiling glass windows with flower strings, a gorgeous hanging glass chandelier, and warm wooden tables and chairs for dining, all of which balanced the whole interior. Yes, it is also a café, which already made me love it more.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:800px;display:block" width="800"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736244723YoungCha Studio Bungee Physio Class.jpg" style="width:800px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="800"/><span class="fr-inner">Bungee Physio is a patented workout concept straight from Korea, now in Cebu!</span></span></span> We were welcomed by <strong>Sohee Ann</strong>, the soft-spoken and charming Korean owner who’s been living in Cebu for eight years and counting. Inspired by Korean fitness trends, she brought the unique, patented Korean workout to the Philippines, creating a space that feels both trendy and intentional. Inside the workout room, the floors were padded and clean, the bungee equipment was ready, and our awesome instructor and fitness trainer, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/franzwithbenefit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Franz Osalla</a>, was blasting Moony songs that made the experience feel like a fitness class and a mini party. </div><p>Bungee physiotherapy combines elastic resistance with partial weight relief. In simpler terms, the bungee supports part of your body weight while still challenging your strength, coordination, balance, and endurance. It allows you to move dynamically while being supported, which helps engage the core and deep stabilizer muscles. It also gives you that playful, assisted feeling of “flying,” making movement less intimidating and much more fun.</p><p>And fun it was, but easy? Well… It&#x27;s still <strong>a total-body workout</strong>!   </p><p>Franz gracefully taught us the basics, and soon enough, we were hopping, leaning, lunging, flying, and laughing through the class. I seriously underestimated this. Twenty minutes in, I was already huffing and puffing with my heart rate up. It was full-on cardio, but the supported body weight made it gentler on my knees, which I appreciated as a plus-size girly.</p><p>What I loved most was how it felt like play. Yes, it was challenging. But in the middle of it all, we were laughing, moving without judgment, and trying something new without the pressure of looking perfect. I highly recommend doing this with a group of friends. It’s energizing, social, and genuinely enjoyable.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736394942YoungCha Studio Bungee Physio 2.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">A mindful crafting activity paired with tea and low-sugar treats at YoungCha studio</span></span></span></div><p>After class, Sohee Ann served us with comforting oolong tea and low-sugar pastries. Then YoungCha extended the wellness experience with a mindful crafting activity, using yarn trimmings from socks, driven by Sohee Ann’s <strong>upcycling ethos</strong>, to make cute coasters and flower charms. I loved this detail because it made the visit more than just a fitness class. It became a movement for the body, comfort for the senses, and creativity for the mind.</p><p>That afternoon, we headed to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sagehealthspa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Sage Spa</strong></a>. To be honest, I was not expecting to be so sore after bungee fitness, but by then, my body was begging for recovery. Sage Spa has become one of Cebu’s much-talked-about spa destinations, and its newer branch at Oakridge impressed us from the moment we entered.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736469340Sage Spa Cebu.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner"> Sage Spa opened its new branch at Oakridge, Mandaue.</span></span></span></div><p>With its calming mix of Zen minimalism, native textures, and warm lighting, the space instantly put us at ease. We tried their body scrub and hot oil massage, a combination recommended for aching muscles. The session began with a foot bath before we were led to our private beds. From there, everything felt quiet, professional, and deeply soothing. Their therapists were skilled, and I could feel the knots and tightness melt away with every hagod. I also appreciated how respectful and quiet they were throughout the treatment. No unnecessary chatter, no awkward sales talk—just proper, restorative care. No wonder it’s always full. Post-massage, we were treated to hot tea in their beautifully serene lounge.</p><p>Our final wellness day began back at Marco Polo with the hotel’s <strong>Saturday Farmer’s Market </strong>(open from 7 AM to 1 PM), a pandemic-era project that became a permanent fixture on its weekend calendar. From wellness shots to fresh produce, food trucks, board games, fashion accessories, and local finds, it is a vibrant market community worth visiting for weekenders in Cebu.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736535839Marco Polo Cebu Saturday market.png" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">Every Saturday, Marco Polo’s parking lot is converted into a fun farmer’s market.</span></span></span></div><p>After some wellness shopping, we headed to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/toledomedcebu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>ToledoMed Cebu</strong></a>, a reputable aesthetic clinic known for beauty innovations, excellent service, and superb patient care. The Cebu branch was welcoming, clean, and polished. More importantly, the staff was kind and pleasant, and I did not feel like I was being pushed into treatments I didn’t need. In an industry where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by recommendations, I appreciated that the team listened intently first. They were genuinely curious about my skin concerns and only suggested what felt necessary.</p><div> </div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736640619ToledoMed Cebu.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner">ToledoMed Cebu’s warm and friendly staff and aestheticians</span></span></span></div><p>We began with <strong>drip cocktails</strong> to nourish us at the cellular level, followed by a <strong>hydrating, moisturizing facial </strong>to soothe skin that had been baking under the summer sun. I also tried skin boosters under the supervision of <strong>Doctor Louie Benoza</strong> (photo below). Doc Louie is insightful, warm, and clear when explaining procedures, which made me feel assured with the treatments I was trying.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:800px;display:block" width="800"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736697140ToledoMed Cebu 2.jpg" style="width:800px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="800"/><span class="fr-inner">ToledoMed’s gold standard in beauty is shaped by its excellent doctors and aestheticians,  as well as its pristine clinics.</span></span></span></div><p><strong>Skin boosters</strong>, for those curious, are not the same as fillers. While fillers are typically used to restore volume or enhance certain features, skin boosters are more focused on improving skin quality. They are designed to help with hydration, texture, elasticity, and overall glow from within. For someone like me who loves travel, sun, and long days out, the idea of giving the skin a deeper kind of moisture and radiance felt aligned with the trip’s wellness theme. It wasn’t about changing my face; it was about helping my skin recover and look healthier. I was also surprised by how tolerable the treatment was. Thanks to their powerful topical anesthetic, the microinjections felt manageable, with only mild to moderate discomfort.</p><p>What I appreciated about ToledoMed was the confidence and authority with which they approached beauty. With years in the medical aesthetics industry and a name built on innovation, patient care, and expertise, the clinic has a polished look that feels premium yet not intimidating. The team made the experience feel informed, safe, and personal.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px;display:block" width="700"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1782736735517Suppuru.png" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" width="700"/><span class="fr-inner"> Suppuru offers effective Korean skincare products where nature and innovation converge.</span></span></span></div><p>For aftercare, I was introduced to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suppuru.philippines" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Suppuru</strong></a>, a <strong>Korean skincare line </strong>available at ToledoMed clinics, positioned as an ideal <strong>post-treatment kit</strong>. After aesthetic treatments, my skin needed support. That means calming, hydrating, protecting, and maintaining the skin barrier as it recovers (there were 3 days of downtime for me, but nothing too intense). Suppuru’s range fits beautifully into that postcare mindset, with products that feel simple and natural (featuring cold-pressed Canadian hemp seed oil as their star antioxidant ingredient) and are focused on helping the skin stay soothed and nourished without clogging the pores.</p><p>I especially liked how it completed the treatment experience. Skin care doesn’t end with the session. Good results are also maintained by what you do after: the products you use, the sun protection you commit to, and the consistency and intentionality in your routine.</p><p>By the time we checked out of Marco Polo Cebu, I felt like the trip had given me exactly what I needed: <strong>movement, nourishment, recovery, beauty, and rest.</strong> It also made me realize that the lifestyle I want can be found here, too. Who knows? I just might do a short-term stay at the refined <a href="https://federalland.ph/residential/cebu/marco-polo-residences/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Marco Polo Residences</strong></a> right beside the hotel the next time I book.</p><p>This trip wasn’t about restriction. It wasn’t about waking up at 5 AM to do six impossible things before breakfast as some wellness influencers post on Instagram. It was a good reminder that wellness can be enjoyable, social, delicious, and deeply personal. Cebu showed me that taking care of myself doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Sometimes, it can feel like a weekend away.</p>

A Day-to-Night Wellness Itinerary in Cebu

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A Day-to-Night Wellness Itinerary in Cebu

Danah Gutierrez

Published June 29, 2026 08:00 PM PHT

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Updated June 29, 2026 08:50 PM PHT

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Wellness

Cebu Wellness

Cebu Wellness Itinerary

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YoungCha Studio Bungee Physio Cebu

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