Dreaming of Paradise? Cebu Awaits with This Incredible Airfare Deal!
Hey travel enthusiasts! I’m back with some seriously exciting news that’s practically begging you to dust off your passport. If you’ve been dreaming of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, then listen up: Round-trip airfares from Los Angeles (LAX) to Cebu City, Philippines (CEB) are currently available for as low as $697! Yes, you read that right. This incredible deal is on United Airlines and All Nippon Airways (ANA) in basic economy, but it includes one free checked bag. And the travel window is expansive, spanning from August 2025 all the way through February 2026. So, let’s dive into the details of this deal, why it’s worth considering, and how you can maximize your rewards using the right travel credit card.
The Nitty-Gritty: Flight Details and Availability
This deal is primarily available on United Airlines and ANA, and is searchable through various online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Google Flights and directly through the airlines’ websites. I always recommend starting your search on Google Flights to get a good overview of available dates and prices. Then, you can book directly with the airline or through your favorite OTA, depending on your preferences for earning rewards or using existing travel credits.
The key to snagging these fares is flexibility. The best prices are typically found on flights during off-peak season, which fortunately aligns with the available travel window. Aim for departures and returns on weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) as these tend to be cheaper than weekend flights. Remember, basic economy comes with restrictions, so make sure to factor those into your decision.
Why Cebu City? Beyond the Beaches
Cebu City isn’t just a gateway to stunning beaches (although, let’s be honest, those beaches are a major draw!). It’s a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and culture. You can explore historical landmarks like Fort San Pedro and Magellan’s Cross, immerse yourself in the bustling Carbon Market, and indulge in delicious Filipino cuisine. Beyond the city, Cebu province offers incredible opportunities for adventure:
* Island Hopping: Explore nearby islands like Bohol (home of the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers), Malapascua (famous for thresher shark diving), and Moalboal (renowned for its sardine run). * Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls: For thrill-seekers, canyoneering through the turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls is an unforgettable experience. * Diving and Snorkeling: Cebu is a diver’s paradise, with diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs. * Relaxation: If you want to relax there are some truly world class resorts that can be had for relatively little compared to places in the US.
Cebu offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. And with this airfare deal, it’s more accessible than ever!
Basic Economy: Understanding the Restrictions
Before you jump on this deal, it’s essential to understand the limitations of basic economy fares. Typically, these fares include:
* Seat Assignment: Seat assignment is usually at the discretion of the airline at check-in, and you may not be able to choose your seat without paying an extra fee. * Carry-on Baggage: Basic economy fares often restrict you to only a personal item that fits under the seat. * Boarding: Basic economy passengers are usually among the last to board, meaning overhead bin space may be limited.
However, in this case, the inclusion of one free checked bag significantly mitigates the drawbacks of basic economy. It alleviates the worry of fitting everything into a small personal item and avoids the potential for gate-checking fees.
Maximizing Rewards: Choosing the Right Credit Card
Now, let’s talk about how to make the most of this deal by using the right travel credit card. The key is to choose a card that offers bonus rewards on airline purchases, flexible travel redemption options, and valuable travel perks. Here are a few of my top recommendations:
* Airline-Specific Credit Cards (United): If you are loyal to United Airlines, consider the United Explorer Card. While I’m not always a fan of being beholden to a specific brand, these cards offer benefits like free checked bags (which is redundant in this case, but still a nice perk for future travel), priority boarding, and bonus miles on United purchases. I love these cards because they often come with decent welcome bonuses. Moreover, having elite status on an airline can sometimes help you navigate the restrictions of basic economy, potentially allowing you to choose seats earlier or upgrade at the gate.
* Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This is my go-to card for general travel spending. It earns valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be redeemed for travel through the Chase portal, transferred to airline and hotel partners (including United!), or used for cash back. The flexibility of Ultimate Rewards points makes this card incredibly versatile. The Sapphire Preferred also offers travel insurance, which can be a lifesaver in case of flight delays, cancellations, or lost luggage.
* Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: This card offers a simple and rewarding travel experience. It earns Capital One miles on all purchases, which can be redeemed for travel credits or transferred to partner airlines and hotels. The Venture X also provides access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass lounges, which can make your airport experience much more comfortable. The annual fee is relatively high, but it’s easily offset by the card’s generous travel credits and rewards.
* American Express® Gold Card: If you spend a lot on dining and groceries, the Amex Gold Card is worth considering. While it doesn’t offer bonus rewards specifically on airfare, it earns a generous amount of Membership Rewards points on dining, groceries, and at U.S. supermarkets. Membership Rewards points can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel partners, including ANA, one of the airlines offering this deal. While I don’t use this card for airfare itself, I would use it for the associated dining expenses on the trip to maximize earnings.
Pro-Tip: Consider Booking Through an OTA with Travel Protection
While I often advocate for booking directly with the airline for better customer service and easier changes, booking through an OTA like Expedia or Priceline can sometimes offer additional benefits, such as built-in travel protection plans. These plans can provide coverage for trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage, offering peace of mind in case of unexpected events.
However, make sure to carefully review the terms and conditions of the travel protection plan before booking, as coverage varies depending on the provider and the specific situation.
Don’t Delay: Book Your Dream Trip Today!
This airfare deal to Cebu City is too good to pass up. With a wide travel window, flexible booking options, and the inclusion of a free checked bag, it’s an incredible opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of the Philippines without breaking the bank.
Remember to use the right travel credit card to maximize your rewards and take advantage of valuable travel perks. I recommend starting your search on Google Flights, comparing prices across different airlines and OTAs, and being flexible with your travel dates to find the best deals. I know that I’m already looking at my calendar to see when I can book this trip. This might be the perfect getaway for me!
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Cebu adventure today!
Happy travels!
