Guide

Aside from being Mindanao’s major business hub, Davao city is always a great place to travel and visit. There’s so much here to explore and many things to do.  Visit Davao and stay for a few days. You would be surprised that the city has much to offer.

1. Davao is safe

Compared to Manila, Davao is relatively safer. You can brandish your phone and no one would dare to steal it. You can even wander at night without the fear of getting harassed or mugged. Furthermore, police and security personnel are posted all around the metro to ensure everyone’s safety.

2. The people are nice

Davaoeños are as nice and as warm as its climate. It’s not difficult to strike friendly conversations or ask for directions as you travel the city. You can approach anyone anytime and they’ll gladly answer your question or point you to the right direction.

3. A melting pot of culture

Originally, Davao is home to 13 indigenous tribes with their own beliefs, culture and heritage. As years go by, the city became home to Spanish colonists, Chinese businessmen and Japanese laborers. They too added flavor to the city which is evident to some of the city’s landmarks such as San Pedro Church, Chinatown and Little Tokyo.

Every so often, you’ll see “lumads” hawking their wares or playing their traditional music in the streets. You would see “badjaos” selling pearls and accessories to make a living. During festivities, various tribe members would descend the city to join the fun and share their way of life.

4. Enjoy good food

Like every Filipino, Davaoeños love to eat. They love to eat so much that you’d find food stalls, restaurants and peddlers wherever you go. You ought to try Davao’s cuisine because you might discover flavors you haven’t tried yet.

If you want fresh and delicious fruits, you should head to Madrazo or Magsaysay fruit stands. If you want an affordable gastronomic treat, try the Roxas Night Market, Damosa Food Fest or Bankerohan food stalls. If that’s not enough to sate your stomach, visit Ahfat Restaurant, Dencias or Jack’s Ridge.

5. Staying in Davao is very affordable

Cost of living in Davao is very affordable and you can stay here for a while without worries. The city enjoys the same amenities that you would find in large cities like Manila or Cebu. The only difference here is that prices are much lower in Davao.

6. Davao has the most affordable Durian

Speaking of affordable, did you know that the city has the most affordable Durian in the world? This pungent, spiky and creamy delicious “King of fruits” is available for ₱200 (almost $4) and that’s just during off-season. During peak season (March to September), durian prices drop from ₱100 to ₱40 ($1.9 to $.7).

7. Davao is very convenient and accessible

The city is your initial stopover when touring Mindanao. It has a network of bus and ferries that connects the city to the rest of Mindanao. Furthermore, the city’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport offers domestic and international flights, connecting you to the rest of the country and the world.

8. Weather is predictable

Typhoons are usual in the Philippines, but surprisingly, they are rare in Davao. This makes the weather predictable. It’s mostly summer and fair weather all year round. The sunny climate allows you to enjoy the beaches anytime of the year.

9. Davao’s Abundant Nature

Visit the city for a slice of its abundant nature! Head to the Philippine Eagle Center to meet and greet one of the most majestic eagles in the world, the Philippine Monkey-eating Eagle. You may also check out the huge crocodiles at Davao Crocodile Farm where you can learn much about these fearsome reptiles. If you fancy beautiful flowers, Davao has the rare and beautiful Waling-Waling, which is abundant and in full bloom at Davao Orchid Farm.

The city also has parks and gardens where you can step away from the busy city and commune with Mother Nature. You can go on a retreat at Malagos Garden Resort or Eden Nature Park. If you’re in a budget or in the city for a short trip, dedicate one of your afternoons to relax and have a picnic at People’s Park.

10. Go on an Adventure

Take a breather from the mundane life and have an adventure in Davao. We recommend island hopping on Samal where you can enjoy the blue waters and beautiful sceneries. Take a relaxing vacation and stay at Pearl Farm Beach Resort or Kaputian Beach Park Resort. If you prefer hiking, head to Mt. Apo and experience a wondrous sight at its peak.

If you prefer adrenaline pumping thrills, Davao has plenty of thrilling activities to choose from. You can go white water rafting, diving, zip lining, sky swinging, sky cycling and so much more.

Did we miss any of the top reasons to visit Davao? Let us know what you want to say by commenting below.

Marked as one of the world’s safest cities, Davao City has a lot to offer when it comes to nightlife. Even though nightlife in Davao is limited due to the City Government’s curfew and liquor ban, there are still a lot of things to do. Nightlife can also be described as hanging out with friends and enjoying each other’s company while trying different kinds of food. If you just want to chill at night, you can visit these following places:

1. Roxas Night Market

This is one of the most visited places in the downtown area of Davao City. At exactly 5 o’clock in the afternoon, the Roxas Street will be transformed in to a long lane of different stalls. Your cravings can be satisfied without spending a lot of money. Actually, a P100 ($2) will allow you to fully enjoy the place. You can enjoy different kinds of street foods like kwek-kwek (fried boiled egg), fish balls, fried chicken skin and intestines, and balut (fertilized duck egg). Fresh fruits, drinks and desserts like durian ice cream are also a must-try.  You simply choose a stall, pick the food you want and wait for it to get cooked.

Aside from the food, outdoor massage is also offered here. You can enjoy a whole body massage for P200 ($4) only. If you are also into shopping, Roxas Night Market has an “Ukay-Ukay” (mixed clothing) section, where you can buy clothes, bags and shoes for a low price. You don’t have to bring huge amount of cash unless you plan to eat and buy a lot.

2. Matina Town Square

Matina Town Square is known as an entertainment center because of the live performances of local bands and homegrown music artists. MTS is a place where people hang out after a long day of work. Catching up with friends while eating and listening to good music are nice ways to end a day.

There are a lot of good place to hang out like restaurants, food outlets, cafés and bars. Aling Fopping’s Halo-halo or the Durian Coffee of Blugre are good meal conclusions. During special occasion like Araw ng Dabaw or Kadayawan, MTS also organizes weekend bazaars.

3. Boxed Up

With 30 different food outlets in shipping containers, each outlet was made in a creative architectural design which attracts the locals to drop by and experience this new food hub. Aside from the ambiance, each outlet is offering something different from one another.

They have tacos, burgers, dumplings, barbecue and desserts. The prices of the food vary depending on the outlet.  Most range from P45 to P200 which is not bad at all. They are open every day starting at 5pm.

4. Jack’s Ridge

Located at the top of Shrine Hills-Matina, Jack’s Ridge is one of the best places to spend the night in Davao. It has a nice panoramic view of the city where you will enjoy the cold breeze and the city lights. There is also an amphitheater and a playground where kids can run around and play. They also have a swimming pool if you want to have a dip at night.

Jack’s Ridge also offers premium food from their restaurant named Taklobo. Seafood platter, sisig (sizzling pig’s mask and liver) and Kare-Kare (stew in peanut sauce) are the best sellers in their menu. They also have commendable desserts and drinks at their coffee shop where they also serve Durian coffee and Durian cheesecake. There are bars below the coffee shop where you can enjoy live performances daily.

5. Damosa Gateway

Damosa Gateway is buzzing even late at night because of the different IT and BPO companies around the area. This place has a lot of different restaurants, coffee shops, bars and hotels. It is also known as a spot for local concerts and band performances. Food Festival is held here during holidays, long weekends or local festivities.

6. SM Lanang Weekend Market

Davao’s local entrepreneurs are always on the watch for weekend markets. A huge tent filled with food stalls keeps the fountain court of SM Lanang lively. The weekend market is organized in a scheduled basis either on holidays, long weekends or during local festivities. The organizers are inviting both local and eminent bands for a mini concert. It is really a perfect venue for family time and bonding with friends.

7. Torres Street

F Torres Street caters to different people’s wants. The whole street is full of both new and old establishments. Bowling lanes, spa, restaurants, coffee shops, bars and dessert shops mark this long street a night life haven.

Coco’s grill, Bistro Rosario, Rekado, Harana and Bigby’s are on the top of the list for wonderful dinner. Yoh Froz, Snow Shack, Tiny Kitchen, Café Demitasse, Green Coffee, Frog Kaffee and Roastery for dessert cravings. Prime square has Zigudu, a comedy bar, just for fun. This is a one-stop place for anyone who just wants to have fun.

8. K1 KTV Café SPA

Videoke is the favorite pastime for Filipinos. K1 has a wide selection of songs. They also have Kinect and WII where you can do your moves. Depending on your group size, there’s a package room as low as P200 ($4).

K1 café serves wide choices of drinks, pica foods and hearty meals. To complete it, they also have a spa where you will be pampered with a good massage.

9. The Peak

Located on the rooftop of Gaisano Mall, The Peak is a great place to be during night time. It provides a beautiful panoramic view of the downtown area. It has a fountain area with colorful lights that provides delight to the guests. From pizza to frozen yogurt, The Peak has a lot of restaurants and coffee shops that serves affordable meals and tasty desserts.

10. People’s Park

Family picnics, barkada (friends) outing, lover’s dating nest and for exercising are the best things to do at People’s Park without paying entrance fees. It is open every day from 5am to 8am for those would like to jog. It will be closed from 8am to 12 noon for maintenance clean up. It will be opened again from 1pm to 10pm (Monday-Thursday & Sunday) and 1pm to 11pm for Fridays and Saturdays.

They are quite strict here when it comes checking of bags but it’s for the safety of everyone. The giant statues of the Philippine Eagle, waling-waling flower and the tribes which can be found in Davao City are some of the attractions here. The Durian-like dome has a display of pictures about Davao City.

What other places in Davao City would you recommend? Let us know below.

It’s no surprise that Mindanao’s business hub has found an influx of establishments that cater to the young and seasoned alike. With this, a lot of hidden gems have been sprouting around the metro. So here are top 10 hidden gems found only in Davao.

1. The Flea Market Davao

This little boutique located at Roxas Artiaga St. a wide range of products such as make-up, clothing, skin care products, accessories, and other affordable finds. With prices that start for as low as PHP 99.00, you’ll definitely get a bang for your buck.

2. Laboratoire Café

Stepping into Laboratoire Café is like stepping into a mad scientist’s playground. This science–themed café is in one of the spaces of the SPH Medical Arts Building. The usual café treats like coffee, lattes, frappes and meals are served in beakers, flasks and even test tubes as part of the laboratory aesthetic. It also offers student friendly budget meals.

3. Kaizen 

If you’re looking for Japanese street food that is worth your time and money, Kaizen is the place for you. It is located at Pryce Road corner F. Torres St. Kaizen prides itself with its delicious and authentic Japanese street food.

It dishes out different kinds of Ramen, Sushi, Donburi, and other Japanese favorites. This casual dining restaurant not just has great food but also offer great service and a great ambience.

4. Yolks Flower Café + Cupcakery 

This cafe is fit for those of you who love flowers and coffee. It’s the first premium flower café and restaurant in Davao. Yolks offers the familiar café fare that is served and decorated with a wide range of flowers that taste as tantalizing as it looks. It is a bit on the pricier side of the spectrum but it is definitely worth the visit. The café is situated at Doors A & B, Bella Vie Building, Circumferential Road.

5. Rumah Kari

Searching for authentic Malay and Indian cuisine? Look no further for Rumah Kari has just what you’re looking for. Rumah Kari is a restaurant that serves authentic Malaysian and Indian cuisine. Sticking to its authentic Indian and Malay cuisine theme, all the food that Rumah Kari offers is 100% Halal.

The restaurant serves Rendangs, Currys, Tandoori Chicken and other Malay cuisines with prices that are reasonable. It is located at Corner Coral St., and Ruby St., Marfori Heights.

6. Café Canary Davao

Café Canary Davao is home to the brick oven pizzas that come in a variety of flavors and toppings. This café/pizza parlor is a great place to hang out with friends or enjoy the company of family. The entire café setup is also very Instagram worthy. Located at Calachuchi corner Acacia St., Juna Subdivision, Matina (near Ateneo Gate 8).

7. Pawsome Dog Café

Ever thought about taking your pooch out on a date? Well look no further or Pawsome Dog Café can give you just that. A 1.5 hour date with your furry friend will cost you P190 per person which includes 1 free drink.

This shaggy utopia is located at Door 5 Autoville Bldg., F. Torres St. You can also tag your Lolos (grandfathers) and Lolas (grandmothers) along every Tuesday for free by availing of Pawsome’s Senior’s Day discount.

8. Wild Garlic

For those of you who want to try good old Tagalog classics with a foreign twist, Wild Garlic is the restaurant to go to. It’s located at 497 South St., DBP Village Ma-a. The restaurant serves fusion dishes like binagoongan paired with garlic laced laing, old-style callos simmering in olive oil, grilled peri-peri inspired chicken and many more.

9. The Shoppers’ Hub

The Shoppers’ Hub located at Door 6, C5 Dormitel Bldg., Roxas Ave. is a great place to buy good quality items for a great bargain. The Shoppers’ Hub offers a wide range of products such as makeup, clothing, bags, accessories and other great trinkets.  This hole in the wall sells not just international brands but also quite a few brands owned by locals themselves.

10. Stre3ts Urban Lifestyle Pub

Want to quench your night life thirst? Say no more because Stre3ts Urban Lifestyle Pub has got you covered. With its flavored beers, cocktails, good food and great music, Stre3ts Urban Lifestyle Pub is going to satisfy all your party cravings. And for all you ladies out there, they also have #BottomlessGirlsNight every Wednesday. It’s located at JJ’s Commune, Loyola St., J.P. Laurel, Bajada.

So what are you waiting for? Come and, visit these hidden gems.