Davao, here I come. While I was no stranger to the bustling metropolis of Manila in my pre-pandemic travels, for me, Davao remained unknown. I recently had the opportunity to spend four unforgettable days discovering everything Davao offers, and it was an incredible experience! Pictured above Expat Choice Reporter, Douglas Peris visit Davao.
Often called the "Crown Jewel of Mindanao" and the "Durian Capital of the Philippines," Davao has a population of 2.1 million people and is home to the magnificent Philippine Eagle. The city is enormous, with a land area four times Singapore's. The city is clean and well-maintained, and the nearby islands have crystal-clear waters perfect for a beach and island getaway.
Davao has a rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty. I highly recommend adding it to your travel bucket list—you won't be disappointed! The region is renowned for its thriving agricultural sector. It is abundant with fruit, vegetable and coconut products.
The ocean provides a seafood feast, with tuna being a prime export. All this contributes to the city’s vibrant culinary scene. The Davao region also produces some of the finest chocolate worldwide, and cacao is exported worldwide. I even got to make my own chocolate but more on that later.
Cebu Pacific provides direct flights from Singapore to Davao four times a week, and they will soon expand their fleet by adding fifteen more aircraft.. The flight from Singapore was smooth and uneventful, which is a good thing!
Cebu Pacific is among the first carriers in the world to adopt carbon emission reduction initiatives. They are committed to investing time and resources to become the greenest airline in Asia. In November 2022, they received the Asia Environmental Sustainability Airline of the Year from the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) for its leadership in sustainability performance in the regional aviation industry.
There were no delays in getting to the coach to the Seda Abreeza Hotel (pictured above) for my overnight stay. The warm greetings and prompt check-in meant I could hit the pillow with minimal fuss and rest for the next day’s activities. My room was comfortable with all the usual amenities and had a great view of the city landscape.
The buffet breakfast served at Misto restaurant offered a limited but delightful mix of local and international dishes, various pastries, fruits, and an egg station. There was something to satisfy every palate. The Abreeza Mall is just across the street, offering various retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
Day 1 and the first stop was at the Philippines Eagle Centre. This remarkable conservation facility, nestled in the lush Malagos Watershed, offers an unforgettable encounter with the majestic Philippine Eagle.
The Philippine Eagle Centre's primary purpose is to conserve and rehabilitate the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. This sanctuary houses these awe-inspiring birds, many of whom have been rescued from captivity or saved from life-threatening injuries.
A notable resident of the Philippine Eagle Centre is Viggo, a Philippine Eagle, a majestic bird that has become a symbol of pride for the country. Viggo's striking image adorns the Philippine 1000-peso banknote. The Philippine Eagle Centre is also home to much other native wildlife, including crocodiles, deer and various bird species.
These animals, many of which are endemic to the Philippines, provide guests with an opportunity to learn about the country's biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts. The best time to visit is when the animals are most active in the cooler morning hours. The Philippine Eagle Centre is primarily funded by the non-profit Philippine Eagle Foundation.
The next stop, and a welcome stint in the air-conditioned van, was the Malagos Nature Park. This beautiful park is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The park boasts a bird park, a butterfly sanctuary, a petting zoo, and an orchid farm. I had fun at the bird park, where I hand-fed the friendly budgies. Pretty amazing to see them on my arm and even perched on my phone as I tried to grab a few pics.
You must also visit the Chocolate Museum, which showcases Davao's rich history of chocolate production. This family-owned, tree-to-bar chocolate factory has put Davao on the global map as a producer of fine-quality chocolate while offering visitors a fascinating insight into the region's rich history of cacao cultivation.
The factory's accolades include multiple international awards, such as the prestigious Academy of Chocolate Awards and the Great Taste Awards, which stand testament to the exceptional quality of Malagos chocolate.
The tour also included a tasting session of the various types of chocolate produced. The Malagos Chocolate Factory conducts chocolate-making workshops, where I learned the art of crafting my own chocolate treats under the guidance of expert chocolatiers. Chilli chocolate, anyone?
An hour’s drive from the Malagos Nature Farm is Eden Nature Park. It recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and offers an escape from the city that combines nature, adventure, and sustainability.
This sanctuary stands out as a prime example of the eco-friendly tourism of Davao. Spanning 80 hectares of lush, mountainous terrain, Eden Nature Park provides various outdoor activities to cater to all ages and interests.
Guests can explore the park's many walking trails, colourful gardens, and butterfly sanctuary. The thrill-seeking activities include the park's Skyrider zip line or the SkySwing. It is an excellent destination for families with children.
Eden Nature Park's commitment to sustainability extends to its accommodations and amenities. Cozy log cabins, spacious family villas, and charming mountain huts are constructed using eco-friendly materials, ensuring a minimal environmental impact.
The park's picturesque setting makes it a popular wedding destination for couples to exchange their vows. This is an ideal place for travellers seeking a harmonious blend of adventure, relaxation, and sustainable practices.
The day wasn’t over yet. I had dinner at the Balik Bukid Farm and Kitchen. This quaint farm-to-table restaurant stands out as a testament to the region's rich agricultural heritage. Balik Bukid's culinary philosophy deeply respects the land and its bountiful produce.
Helmed by the passionate and talented Chef Paolo Garcia, the restaurant takes pride in utilising fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create delectable Filipino dishes with a modern twist.
The menu celebrates flavours, textures, and colours, showcasing the best of Davao's culinary scene. Tonight’s meal included squash and coconut stew, grilled tuna belly, a signature dish, pork leg in black vinegar and a prawn and clam medley. Each dish is meticulously prepared, with the chef’s expertise and creativity shining through in every bite.
The farm's organic garden also provides fresh herbs and vegetables. Chef Paolo’s sister, local artist Willie Garcia adds her creative touch to Balik Bukid. Her vibrant paintings and sculptures adorn the walls and add to the unique artistic charm of the restaurant. The restaurant offers various entertainment options, such as live acoustic music and traditional dance performances. Balik Bukid offers a beautiful feast for the senses steeped in the rich heritage of Filipino culture.
Day 2 was an early start. Leaving the hotel at 7:00am, I was looking forward to a day out embarking on an island-hopping tour to explore the region's hidden gems, from the pristine white-sand beaches of Samal Island to the enchanting coral gardens of Talicud Island.
The boats used for these tours are well-maintained and operated by experienced and safety-conscious crews, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey across the turquoise waters. Snorkelling around Samal Island provides a fantastic opportunity to discover a vibrant underwater world with diverse marine life. This tropical paradise blew me away.
Its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and diving sites are world-class. The region's shipwrecks, such as the coral-encrusted remains of a World War II Japanese vessel, offer thrilling diving experiences for underwater explorers. The clarity of the water is exceptional. There are beautiful colourful coral formations, countless schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and, I’m told, even the occasional reef shark.
Davao is also home to one of the world's largest populations of giant clams. A snorkelling tour of the giant clam sanctuary is a must-do for those keen on witnessing these magnificent bivalves up close. What’s a holiday without seeing a giant clam?
The best time to visit Davao for diving and snorkelling is between April and November when the seas are the calmest, and the weather is generally sunny and warm. I lunched at the Dayang Beach Resort, where I had the deliciously grilled tuna jaw for lunch. Now I don’t know how I could eat tuna any other way.
I boarded a different speedboat for my next destination, the Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort. Tucked away on the white sandy shores of Pindasan Beach, the resort is a serene tropical sanctuary that effortlessly combines Davao's natural beauty with Thai-inspired luxury. I recommend everyone to make a short getaway here.
The resort has 18 well-appointed villas and suites, each designed to evoke a sense of peace and serenity. The spacious, airy accommodation has a definite Thai architectural style. Whether you opt for the Beachfront Villa with its plunge pool or the more exclusive Oceanview Suites, you'll get stunning views of the sea, the white sand, and the lush greenery surrounding the resort.
My room was spacious, and the small balcony was a pleasant retreat to sit and watch the sea and the clouds drift by. Here’s a welcome bonus. Every guest gets a complimentary 10-minute foot bath in your room. Bliss!
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast buffet at The Market. The restaurant offers an array of local and international dishes. There are many other dining options, and the Burger Bar offers nice selection of juicy gourmet burgers, artisan pizzas, craft beers and cocktails, as well as indoor fun and games. It was fun reliving my younger days on the Space Invader machine.
At the Recording Studio, you’ll find a fully-equipped karaoke room with thousands of songs to choose from. If you prefer to stay close to the resort, the private stretch of the beach (pictured above) offers ample relaxation opportunities.
Enjoy a leisurely swim in the warm, clear waters or venture out on a kayak to explore the coastline at your own pace. The Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort is ideally suited for those who come to relax and chill out with everything you need at your beckoning.
Day 3 and time to pack the bags and head back to the mainland for the evening flight back to Singapore. Lunch was at The Marina Tuna Restaurant a landmark restaurant known for fresh, sustainable seafood. Marina Tuna's pièce de résistance is undoubtedly its extraordinary "Tuna 10-Ways" menu, showcasing the versatility and deliciousness of the prized fish.
This unique experience takes you on a journey, with each dish highlighting the rich flavours and textures of the tuna. From the melt-in-your-mouth grilled tuna panga (jaw) and succulent tuna sashimi to the comforting tuna sinigang (sour soup) and the crispy tuna buntot (tail) – believe me, it was all different and delicious.
Founded in 2006 by a local fishing family, the The Marina Tuna Restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to sustainable fishing practices and its unwavering dedication to quality. More than just a culinary destination, Marina Tuna proudly advocates social and environmental responsibility.
The restaurant's social agenda extends to supporting local communities and providing jobs and skill development opportunities for the region's fishermen and their families. This social commitment and sustainable fishing practices have earned Marina Tuna a loyal following of patrons who appreciate its delicious offerings and heartfelt mission.
Finally, it was time to head to the airport. A jam-packed three days, but I am thankful to get an exciting insight into Davao, its history, culture, people and economy.
Thank you Cebu Pacific, Department of Tourism, Seda Abreeza and Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort for hosting your reporter. A paradise found and has earned a place for my future beach holidays.
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