If you're visiting the wondrous country of the Philippines, then make sure to include Cebu on your list. Cebu City, the province's capital, is known as "The Queen City of the South."

There are so many fun things to do and beautiful places to explore while visiting this Philippine gem, but let's take a look at the five things you shouldn't miss when wandering Cebu:

Go swimming with whale sharks. It's not every day that you get to say you've swum with whale sharks right beside you, so if you want to avail this once-in-a-lifetime experience, then make sure to go to Oslob, Cebu, where this recreation is located. It's just a few hours' drive south, and there you will get to see and be with the world's gentlest sea giants.

Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls. The drive to get here may cost you 4-5 hours, but the trip will definitely be worth it! The canyoneering course features 3 waterfall jumps, complete with hiking trails and sliding on rocks to get to the river! It's a fun, extreme water-sport activity that's slowly getting global popularity. Another reason is because the river and falls is so breathtakingly beautiful. Make sure you don't miss it!

Indulge in the Sugbu culture in Larsian. You may have probably eaten barbecue even at least once in your life, but Cebu barbecue isn't like anything you've ever tasted. And in Larsian, all varieties of barbecue are yours to devour and taste, from seafood, chicken, and pork. Wash it down with their local beer and share it with friends. The best thing is, they're super cheap!

Experience Sinulog festival. If you decide to travel in Cebu, schedule your trip to be around the first 3 weeks of January so you could catch the celebration of Sinulog festival. This 9-day festival is one of the grandest and most celebrated in the whole country by honoring Sto. Nino, the province's patron saint. A grand street parade is usually the highlight of the whole festival, featuring lots of cultural dance and colorful floats. At night, the whole Cebu sky is lighted with beautiful fireworks, while tourists and locals alike mingle at the streets to party and have fun. It's like Mardi Gras, but for religious reasons.

Eat Cebu's Lechon. Your Cebu trip wouldn't be complete if you won't get a taste of their famous Lechon. This roasted pig is marinated in secret herbs and spices that only Cebuanos seem to know about, resulting in a really savory and flavorful dish-- from the pig's crispy skin up to the tasty meat underneath. International TV host Anthony Bourdain fell in love when he got a taste and called it "the best pork dish in the world."