It is Davao’s interesting mix of urban and natural elements that makes it such an appealing destination. On one hand, you can spend your time wandering the city streets, visiting quirky tourist attractions and sampling delicious street food. But as soon as you need a break from concrete, crowds and neon, you can jump on a boat and find yourself on a secluded beach in no time. Here’s why you should find Davao city hotels now and start putting together plans for your trip!
Checking out unusual tourist attractions
Most cities offer the usual run of tourist activities. You know how it goes: the local zoo, the tallest building, the botanic gardens and so on. But, in Davao, every attraction comes with its own special twist. Take, for example, People’s Park. From the outside, it looks like yet another run-of-the-mill central grassy area, offering urbanites a moment of green respite. Walk inside and you’ll discover that it’s a whole different story.
For a start, there’s a dancing fountain. Music plays and the water responds, drawing on 59 various special effects and in excess of one hundred lights. Then there’s a man-made waterfall of some ten metres in height, made especially dramatic by its backdrop, which is comprised of volcanic rock. There’s a dome devoted to the durian fruit, a Filipino culinary experience that you really must try!. The rest of the park’s four acres provide a running track, a children’s playground and some truly amazing sculptures of both people and animals.
Hanging out with exotic wildlife in the city
Davao is home to both the Philippine Eagle Nature Centre and a Crocodile Park. In the former, you can see thirty-six Philippine Eagles, a species on the brink of extinction. There are also ten other bird species, plus a few mammals and reptiles. The entry fee is P50 for adults and P30 for children, with much of the money going towards protecting, researching and saving the Philippine Eagle.
At the latter, you can spend some time with one of the world’s most ancient and terrifying creatures – the crocodile. Their efficiency at killing means they haven’t had to bother with evolution for millions of years. The Davao Crocodile Park, also known as Ma-a, is home to both ‘friendly’ freshwater crocs and not-so-friendly saltwater ones.
Eating delicious street food
To sample the best of what’s on offer, head to Palma Gil Street, San Pedro Street or JP Laurel Avenue. San Pedro can get incredibly busy, but experiencing the buzzing atmosphere should be part of any Davao adventure. The highlight of Filipino street treats is undoubtedly ‘kwek kwek’ – hard boiled quail eggs deep-fried in batter.
Spending time at stunning natural assets
You don’t have to travel far to come across some utterly stunning beaches and fantastic opportunities for hiking and camping. If you’re a beach person whose favourite past time is relaxing on the sand with a great book and a picnic, then make time to visit the Island Garden City of Samal. You’ll discover crystal clear water, silky white sand and secluded coves that’ll make you feel as though you’re a million miles from anywhere. Catch a boat there from Sta Ana Wharf.
For those who enjoy the challenge and rewards of hiking and camping, Mt Apo is but a hop, skip and a jump away. At 2,954 metres, it is the Philippines’ highest mountain. If you’re bubbling over with energy and enthusiasm, take on the peak walk, the views are awe-inspiring. Otherwise, settle for a shorter, easier stroll. The landscape includes wetlands teeming with wildlife, virgin forests and rugged rock crags formed by volcanic activity.
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