First-time in Davao City

Davao is a place where fruit and seafood are delightful treats. Geographically, it is the largest city in the Philippines, with its hills stretched over the expanse of the city. However, the main commercial district is just a small area where the malls, offices, shops, and hotels are located.




Davao is also the home of the country’s most delicious durians. This is where I tasted my first Durian, with Davao being famous for this aphrodisiac fruit. Every dining experience is excellent in Davao. But what is most exciting about Davao is that it has a lot of nature adventures: climbing Mt. Apo, Philippines’ highest peak, or white-water tubing (using the interior of rubber tires) in the river.

Davao is also home to Filipino artists whose works are seen in many parts of Davao. A trip around the city to the Philippine Eagle sanctuary is worthwhile. For more nature-tripping, Mount Apo National Park is the place to be with its lakes, hot streams and waterfalls.

The tourism office offers white-water tubing with equipment rentals and a guide. The price is very affordable and not a big problem at all; just make sure you bring some food with you.

There are also gigs of known bands in different night spots. Many artists and performers come here to unwind and have fun or treat Davaoeños for great music. Local newspapers and magazines provide schedules of events and happenings in the city.

Taxis are very reliable here and more organized compared with those in Manila. You may call the local taxi operators or ask your hotel front desk to help you out.

You can take a walk around the city, with most establishments within walking distance. The local jeepney is also a good alternative to go around Davao. Just ask a local of the routes they are plying to make sure you don’t get lost.

Dining with bare hands at Kulasa’s

Kulasa’s is a very popular dining place in Davao. It serves grilled chicken parts and other local delights. You just have to use your bare hands to eat. Sounds backward? Well, taste their food and you would be amazed by how delectable the food they serve.

The ambiance is very native with the building and the furnishings made of bamboo or wood. Families and tourists come here for a filling dinner. When you get to eat their native delicacies, it’s so good that you would even forget where you are.

Marco Polo Hotel

The best hotel in the city and right in the center of it. It has nice rooms complete with desk and internet connections. It overlooks the Davao coast and the major city streets.

Not only are their amenities complete and their rooms well-equipped, the front desk people are also warm and welcoming. They have great function rooms and a festive buffet in their restaurant. Many personalities stay in Marco Polo whenever they are in town.

Ponce Suites

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, Ponce Suites it is! This is home to the artistic fruits of the owner’s son, named Kublai, a friend of mine (the same Kublai in Camiguin’s Enigmata Tree House). You’ll find giant garden set at the roof deck and giant ants crawling on the ceiling. It has a television set, air-conditioned rooms with private baths.

The last I heard, Kublai added more sculptures within and outside the hostel. It is an artist haven and is a very private place since this is located inside a village which is a few distance from the main thoroughfares.




Ranchero Grill

Mouthwatering steak and fresh sea food are delectable feast here in Ranchero Grill. It has a lovely ambiance, complete and aviary, as well as a private room for special functions. It’s strategically located in the heart of the city but offers privacy to its diners. The price is just right and the food are awesome!

Aldevinco Shopping Center

Tourists and shoppers come to one place in Davao, Aldevinco. Souvenir items and cheap local products are sold in small stalls in this shopping complex. What’s more, you can haggle for a cheaper price, as is common in most Filipino stores. You can find shawls, sarongs, musical instruments, wood carvings, and many native products at Aldevinco.