Dazzling Davao

It is my first time to go to Mindanao and we chose to go to one of the Most Progressive cities in the Philippines - Davao City! The Waterfront Insular Hotel became our home for the weekend.

Morning view from our room

Waterfront Lobby at Night with Christmas Decors

Waterfront Deluxe Room

 We immediately noticed the clean streets even the clean markets around the city. And when we say progressive, Davao really is! Aside from having an Ayala Mall - Abreeza and a huge SM Mall - SM Lanang which has an IMAX and is said to be the second largest SM mall next to Mall of Asia,  there are a lot of establishments and hang-out places around the city.

 Since we just wanted a quick chill getaway, we only opted for a city tour. As first stop, we went to Eden Park where we strolled around the hectares of nature lover's haven. We also visited their fishing village and got the chance to tick off our 2012 list of catching a fish and have it cooked.

Have your fish and eat it too :D

Eden Park Entrance

Eden Park - Nature Lover's Haven

  We also had lunch at Jack's Ridge which offers a breathtaking view of Davao City. Food is a bit pricey considering it is already a must for any tourist to drop by the place. But, the food we tried is delicious and worth the price.

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View from Jack's Ridge - Karlo's Gourmet and Coffee

  We had the chance to visit the Japanese tunnel which is very significant for Jz because it was in Davao where his grandfather was harmed by the Japanese during the Japanese war. Entering the tunnel gives you that goosebump-y feeling but knowing the stories while seeing the preserved part of the tunnel is a cool experience. The tunnel was unexpectedly discovered during the1960s when the National Highway of Davao was being built.

Davao's Japanse Tunnel

Travel Thoughts:

- The city governance is strict on implementation. Thus, you will inevitably notice the high police visibility in the area. As a tourist, one must be aware that  "No Smoking" zones in public places/jeepneys are strictly implemented. There are only designated smoking areas.

- Another tourist must-know: Alcoholic beverages are only served until 1am and bars/clubs operate only until 2am. This is strictly implemented as well.

-  Interesting Trivia: Mt Apo is very visible in the city especially if one is headed to Eden Park. However, the highest peak in the country is not really located in Davao exactly but in Cotabato. Most climbers are from Davao though. And the most scenic view is seen in Davao. Our tourist guide also shared that most  mountaineers flock Mt Apo during Holy Week.

- If you happen to stay in Waterfront Hotel, their Caesar Salad is the bomb! You can order for additional or less parmesan and other toppings when you order and their veggies are soo crunchy.

- The best Durians are the ones being sold accros Chinatown entrance. Another interesting fact is that the Chinatown in Davao is one of the largest in a foreign Asian country.

Davao's Chinatown at Night