Cebu is not as polluted as Manila. It has many shopping malls easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. Lots of students because of many universities and schools. There are many foreigners in their senior years who live there now who had married filipina women. You don't need to bring so much clothing when you travel there because things are affordable. The climate is humid and the weather can be rainy or hot. You will be wearing thin type of clothing most of your stay and use sandals. People speak Cebuano, the local language but they can understand English well compared to other Asian cities. If you are concerned about safety when you travel in a third world country then just be simple in the way you look.

Before, Cebu wasn't really considered so cool because it's a province. But now, it's getting better and more popular than Manila. Good nightlife, less pollution, good schools, less crime. A lot of foreigners go there now. If you want to go to the Philippines for a visit or stay, and if you're sick of Manila, I highly suggest you try Cebu.