*#NoFilter – I don’t know what my camera did.
Any place that’s overlooking the city or something to that effect always appeals to me. When you see things from the top, it’s as if you’re the king or the queen of the world. It gives a different kind of delight to your heart. I’ve been to a few places which have that kind of vibe but it’s not always easy because first, I need a car to bring me there.
But because I don’t have my own car, that “overlooking the city” kind of vibe is hard to achieve most of the time. Yesterday, I jumped at the chance of visiting one of the highest points in Cebu – the ever famous Tops Skyline Garden! Thanks to Go To Tops tour service, our travel was convenient, safe, smooth, easy, timely, and fun!
I’ve been living in Cebu for 7 years but I’ve never been to Tops even though I wanted to. It’s one of the best places to chill, relax, and take some nice photos. But I really think it’s too far and my only concern is that… I don’t wanna ride a motorcycle going up there. Riding a motorcycle is the common way of transportation to Tops and that itself is quite an ordeal because the road is steep and again, Tops really lives up to its name – it’s at the top!
Also, I’ve heard many “scam” stories from friends and other people that some motorcycle drivers would usually charge higher upon arriving to Tops even though you’ve already agreed on a price prior to riding.
Going there via a cab or taxi can be very expensive too and I don’t want my fare to be more expensive than my entrance fee.
What is Go To Tops?
Go To Tops has been transporting locals and tourists to Tops for three months now. They offer 7 trips up each day (more detailed info at the end of the post). Their shuttle van will fit at most 14 passengers comfortably from Lahug all the way to Tops for approximately 20 minutes only.
Seriously, I find this a very hassle-free way of going to Tops and to Temple of Leah. For Php 300 only per person, you get a round trip ride + ticket to Tops worth Php 100 + a free drink. This is very budget-friendly compared to your motorcycle’s fare which runs around Php 100-150 for a one-way ride and as mentioned above, may increase magically upon reaching Tops (I don’t know why, lol).
By the way, I have nothing against motorcycles and their drivers – just stating some first-hand facts based on my friends’ experiences. 😉
Some things you need to know about Tops
- Best place to enjoy a fantastic view of the city of Cebu, Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu, and even the island of Bohol
- Offers a unique backdrop that cannot be found anywhere else in the city — perfect place for photography and Instagram enthusiasts
- Situated at almost 2000 feet above the city
- Rated Top 3 Things To Do in Cebu City by Trip Advisor
- Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and has five cafes and restaurants
- Half of the entire Tops may be reserved for free for events and gatherings
- No corkage fee for outside food and drinks (yup, I brought quesadilla and ate it up there)
*Details stated above are from Go To Tops
It was already dark when we reached Tops. Like super dark. I’m not well-versed in night photography (or at least not yet, lol) because I focus on taking photos in natural light for now so it was a heck of a challenge to photograph the breathtaking view without a tripod (which I left at home).
I did my best to make some adjustments to my camera so I could take decent photos. They’re not perfect but I love them! It was cold up there and thankfully it wasn’t crowded. Here are some of my blissful snapshots.
I really love the colors, the lights, or whatever lights there were during that time. The Christmas holiday feel was a plus factor too.
*The Squad! Thanks to our driver for being so game in taking our photos. We had an instant photography tutorial. 😉 Also special thanks to Paul of Go to Tops for bringing us up there safely and conveniently.
I truly had fun despite the quick visit. I’m definitely going back to hang out with my family and take more photos in daylight. ♥
This goes without saying that on your next visit to Tops or Temple of Leah, go ahead and contact Go To Tops. 😉
Location: Cebu Tops Road, Busay, Cebu City
Rates & Updates: Check out Go To Tops Facebook Page
