Davao.
Here is a travel guide for Davao:
1. Recommended attractions:
• Mount Apo: Located about 30 kilometers southwest of Davao City, with an altitude of 2954 meters, it is the highest peak in the Philippines. It is an active volcano, but it has not erupted for nearly a hundred years. The surrounding area is covered by tropical hardwood forests. There are waterfalls and hot springs, which have been developed into Mount Apo National Park, a great place for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts. Climbing to the top of the mountain offers stunning views of Davao City, but it requires a certain level of physical fitness.
• Malagos Garden Resort: The resort is covered by lush vegetation, like a large botanical garden. It has a chocolate museum and a DIY chocolate experience center, where you can learn about the chocolate making process and taste delicious chocolate. There is also a bird park, and the woods are dotted with giant chocolate dessert models, perfect for taking photos.
• Eden Nature Park and Resort: Built on a mountaintop, overlooking Davao's coastline. It offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking in the pristine forest, strolling through the organic farm, aerial cycling, jungle zipline, and high-altitude bungee trampoline, allowing you to fully experience the thrill of outdoor sports.
• Pearl Farm Beach Resort: The hotel is located next to a pearl farm, hence the name. You can stay in a water villa, each room with a sea view. The hotel's facilities and dining reach five-star standards, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable vacation.
• Davao Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo: The park houses the world's second-largest crocodile, as well as pythons, lizards, and other animals. Although smaller in scale compared to domestic zoos, it provides an insight into the local animal ecology.
• Talikud Island: Not far from Davao City, it is a beautiful island. The seawater is clear, the beach is white, and there are large coconut groves, with stunning scenery. You can swim and snorkel in the sea, admire the underwater world, or sunbathe and relax on the beach.
• Samal Island: Only 900 meters from Davao City, a boat trip from Davao City's pier to the island takes about 40 minutes. There is no industry on the island, only lush trees and wooden houses, with a very good ecological environment. You can enjoy a leisurely vacation here.
2. Recommended food:
• Durian: Davao is the hometown of durian, and the durian here is rich in flavor and sweet. There is also a durian festival in August, so durian lovers should not miss the opportunity to taste it.
• Seafood: Davao, located near the sea, has abundant seafood resources. Grilled seafood and seafood soup are must-try dishes. You can taste fresh and delicious seafood dishes at night markets or seafood restaurants.
• Roast chicken: Philippine roast chicken is also very special, with tender and juicy chicken meat, golden and crispy skin, and a special sauce, the taste is very delicious.
• Fruits: In addition to durian, Davao also produces mangosteen, custard apple, mango, coconut and other fruits. These fruits are fresh and juicy, with high sweetness, and can be purchased and tasted at local markets or fruit shops.
3. Recommended shopping:
• SM City Davao: Located in the city center, it is one of the largest shopping malls in Davao. It offers a wide variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and other brands. There are also supermarkets, restaurants, and cinemas, which can meet your shopping and entertainment needs.
• SM Lanang: Only 10 minutes by car from the airport (20 minutes during traffic jams). There are also many brand stores and restaurants here, making it a good place for tourists to shop and relax.
• Gaisano Grand City Gate: If you arrive in Davao on the first day, this small mall near the airport is a convenient choice, where you can buy some daily necessities and snacks.
4. Accommodation arrangements:
• City hotels: If you want to shop and visit attractions conveniently, you can choose to stay in a city hotel. There are many types of hotels in the city, ranging from budget to luxury, you can choose according to your budget.
• Beach resorts: If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the beach and a leisurely vacation, you can choose to stay in a beach resort, such as Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Eden Nature Park and Resort. These resorts have beautiful environments and complete facilities, but the prices are relatively high.
• Homestay: There are also some homestays available in Davao, which are relatively cheaper and allow you to experience the local life. However, when choosing a homestay, pay attention to the reviews and facilities to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
5. Transportation guide:
• Airplane: Davao International Airport is the main transportation hub for entering and exiting Davao, with domestic and international flights. You can take a flight from Manila and other cities to Davao.
• Taxi: In Davao City, taxis are a convenient means of transportation. Try to choose a white taxi and confirm that the meter is working properly.
• Jeepney: This is a unique Philippine transportation tool, similar to a small bus, with cheap fares, usually 8 pesos per trip. You can hail a jeepney on the road, but pay attention to the route and direction.
• Car rental: If you want to visit attractions further away, such as Mount Apo and Enchanted River, you can choose to rent a car. Car rental can be arranged according to your itinerary and time, which is relatively free and convenient, but the price is relatively high.
6. Precautions:
• The climate in the Philippines is hot and sunny, so take precautions against sunburn and moisturizing. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats with you.
• When participating in outdoor activities, pay attention to safety and follow the guide's instructions to avoid accidents.
• Respect local culture and customs, and abide by local laws and regulations.
• When tasting food, pay attention to food hygiene and avoid eating unclean food or drinking raw water.