Oh, Davao!
I was so excited to visit Davao because of the postive things I've heard - how clean, how tight they are in implementing traffic rules, how disciplined the people are and most especially how safe the city is.
We've got only 3 days to explore Davao. We had to pick three places - City tour on our first day, Samal on our second day and Eden Park on our third day.
We arrived in Davao City via Cebu Pacific. It was a two-hour plane ride from NAIA Terminal 3 in Manila. Upon arrival, instead of taking a cab, we walked towards the airport's exit leading to the highway. So, when you exit the airport building, walk your way to the right side where you will see a sidewalk from afar with a long shed. Follow that shed as it leads to the airport's gate and the highway.
We asked some policemen who were stationed at the gate's airport on how to reach People's Park, the landmark of our hotel - Hotel Galleria.
We alighted at People's Park and ate lunch at one of the hotels just in front of park. Then we walked towards Gov. Duterte, where our hotel is.
HOTEL GALLERIA
I booked this hotel thru Travelbook.ph. It is one of the cheapest hotels in the city. However, comes with the price are the mixed reviews from Travelbook and Tripadvisor.
Well, what I can say?
I only have few bad things to say... First, the building is old and so when you enter the hotel, you'll be slapped by this distinct old smell. It's probably from the old carpet on the stairs, which is just right beside the entrance. Second, shower was not working and the shower area is too small. Lastly, parking on has 4 spaces and most of the time occupied.
Now, to the good things. A lot actually. First, there's a strong wifi which is perfect! Second, it has a pool. They have hot and cold water dispenser on every floor, buffet breakfast, perfect location at the center of the city, no credit card or advance payment is required (just need to pay at the hotel) and lastly, nice and friendly staff.
Well, there are some not-so-good-but-I-can-live-with-it-anyway things. Things that I don't really expect for a 3-star hotel to have, like old type TV with cable adapter box. Beddings and pillows are just fine.
Overall, all the good compensated the bad, and therefore I am just fine with my stay.
This museum is free for the public. What's nice about it is that there is a guide to explain what you'll see inside - the history, culture and tribes. Taking in photos is strictly not allowed. But we're able to take a photo with Duterte's life size standee.
ISLA RETA, SAMAL ISLAND
3 Valid ID's
-Driver's License
-Credit Card or Cash for deposit (10,000-refundable)
-Advance Payment (for the car rental)
Rates:
Toyota Wigo MT - Php 1,000
Toyota Vios MT - Php 1,600
*Rate is good for 24 hours self drive without fuel. With 200km mileage capacity, excess mileage charged Php 2.50/km.
The staff were very friendly. They'll ask where you'll bring their car, what purpose. Then, they'll the terms and conditions.
Here's what I remember:
1. They require credit card or cash deposit (Php 10,000). For credit card holders, they will put a temporary charge in your card, which they will cancel upon return of the car key without any serious damage.
2. All their cars are insured. So, in case you damaged the car pretty bad, they'll collect participation fee which they will deduct from your deposit.
3. They collect rental fee in advance. For us, it's Php 1,000 for Wigo MT.
4. Gas is in full tank. Before returning the car, make sure to drop by the gas station to refill it full.
5. There is mileage limit. After 200 km mileage, will be charged Php 2.50/km (not bad!)
6. There is GPS attached to the car so they'd know your exact location
7. A guys will show you the car's dents and scratches that are already there. So, if there is a dent/scratch that's not in their checklist, it's considered as your liability. So, make sure that you check the car and it's checklist.
8. 24 hours is the time limit but they provide a lee-way of 1 hour.
9. After returning the car key, those who provided their card, they'll call their bank to remove the temporary charge. You'll be given a receipt that the transaction was cancelled. For your own peace of mind, you can call your bank.
I think, that's it.
EDEN NATURE PARK
It's true, Eden Nature Park is one of the must-visit place in Davao. It's best to spend an entire day here especially if you have kids. This park has an awesome playground. Their restaurant is a must-try with good buffet spread (and ice cream too!). This park has so many things to offer! Better check it out!
The hightlight of our trip is the sky adventure! Don't ever miss this. Sky cycling is fun! I got scared at the first few seconds but had a blast afterwards.
It was Bee and Alviss' first time to try zipline and it was memorable. The guides were even so kind enough to take our photos and videos using our phones.
After lunch, we decided to leave Eden. It was an hour drive back to the city and we had to stop by pasalubong center.
PASALUBONG
We were so pressed with time that we didn't get a chance to explore different places to buy pasalubong. We only had 3 days in Davao. We were able to get to Pasalubong Center infront of Apo View Hotel (we bought candies and chocolates. very few choices), Aldevinco Shopping Center (where we bought our T-shirts and wallets. You have to haggle) and Market (where we bought Pomelo and candies).
There, our Oh, Davao trip with Alviss! There are still a lot of things to visit. A 5-day visit is a must.
ITINERARY
Here's the summary of our trip:
Day 1 -
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM - Departure from NAIA Terminal 3 and arrival in Davao International Airport
9:00 AM - 12:00 NN - Travel to People's park and lunch
1:00 PM - check in at Hotel Galleria
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM - explored by foot - City Hall, Museo Dabawenyo and park. Then dropped by Pasalubong Center.
Day 2 - Isla Reta
6:00 AM - wake up call
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM - breakfast at the hotel
7:30 AM - 7:45 AM - left hotel and arrival in Sta. Ana Wharf via a cab/taxi
10:45 AM - 11:00 AM - left Sta. Ana Wharf and arrival in Isla Reta, Talicud Island
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Free time
3:00 PM - 4:15 depart Isla Reta and back in Sta. Ana Wharf
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM - depart the Wharf. Via a taxi, bound for Diamond Cars to pick up the rented car
6:00 PM - left Diamond cars and drove back to the hotel
Free Time
Day 3 - Eden Nature Park
6:00 AM - wake up call
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM - breakfast at the hotel. check out
-- dropped by the market to buy pomelo --
8:45 AM - arrival in Eden Nature Park
-- free time --
1:30 PM - left Eden Park. dropped by Aldevinco Shopping Center
5:00 PM - dropped off Diamond cars to return the car
5:30 PM - left Diamond Cars, going to the Airport
6:00 PM - checked in at Davao International Airport
7:50 PM - 9:50 PM - departure from Davao International Airport; Arrival in NAIA Terminal 3
Here's the video of our entire Davao trip:
We've got only 3 days to explore Davao. We had to pick three places - City tour on our first day, Samal on our second day and Eden Park on our third day.
We arrived in Davao City via Cebu Pacific. It was a two-hour plane ride from NAIA Terminal 3 in Manila. Upon arrival, instead of taking a cab, we walked towards the airport's exit leading to the highway. So, when you exit the airport building, walk your way to the right side where you will see a sidewalk from afar with a long shed. Follow that shed as it leads to the airport's gate and the highway.
We asked some policemen who were stationed at the gate's airport on how to reach People's Park, the landmark of our hotel - Hotel Galleria.
We alighted at People's Park and ate lunch at one of the hotels just in front of park. Then we walked towards Gov. Duterte, where our hotel is.
HOTEL GALLERIA
I booked this hotel thru Travelbook.ph. It is one of the cheapest hotels in the city. However, comes with the price are the mixed reviews from Travelbook and Tripadvisor.
Well, what I can say?
I only have few bad things to say... First, the building is old and so when you enter the hotel, you'll be slapped by this distinct old smell. It's probably from the old carpet on the stairs, which is just right beside the entrance. Second, shower was not working and the shower area is too small. Lastly, parking on has 4 spaces and most of the time occupied.
Now, to the good things. A lot actually. First, there's a strong wifi which is perfect! Second, it has a pool. They have hot and cold water dispenser on every floor, buffet breakfast, perfect location at the center of the city, no credit card or advance payment is required (just need to pay at the hotel) and lastly, nice and friendly staff.
Well, there are some not-so-good-but-I-can-live-with-it-anyway things. Things that I don't really expect for a 3-star hotel to have, like old type TV with cable adapter box. Beddings and pillows are just fine.
Overall, all the good compensated the bad, and therefore I am just fine with my stay.
EXPLORING BY FOOT!
One of the advantages of our hotel is it's location, which is right at the city center. That means less of a problem visiting places like the City hall, Museo Dabawenyo and parks!
MORE PARKS, MORE FUN
One of the advantages of our hotel is it's location, which is right at the city center. That means less of a problem visiting places like the City hall, Museo Dabawenyo and parks!
MORE PARKS, MORE FUN
I think, Davao City has the most parks in the Philippines. Near the city hall, has already 3 parks - Quezon Park, Rizal Park and Osmena Park. This is really nice considering I love parks because of my kid - kid gets to play at the playground, while I get to rest.
I love that there are doves in the park. You can buy corn from a vendor for P5 to feed these doves. I don't think these doves will survive alive here in Manila considering they are tasty to some! **kidding**
I love that there are doves in the park. You can buy corn from a vendor for P5 to feed these doves. I don't think these doves will survive alive here in Manila considering they are tasty to some! **kidding**
There was a free caterpillar ride for kids in Rizal Park when we were there, provided of course by the City government. I think it was ride all you can. Kids just need to fall in line to wait for their turn. Nice, isn't it?!
One of the new things I found out here is that in the isawan, all sticks are of the same price for all kind of isaw. Aside from the isaw, they also sell rice, packed in a transparent plastic. So, if you are hungry and only want to spend P10 for a meal. Just go to this place and buy one isaw and one rice and eat right there, standing.
MUSEO DABAWENYO
MUSEO DABAWENYO
This museum is free for the public. What's nice about it is that there is a guide to explain what you'll see inside - the history, culture and tribes. Taking in photos is strictly not allowed. But we're able to take a photo with Duterte's life size standee.
ISLA RETA, SAMAL ISLAND
The next day, we went to Isla Reta. Isla Reta is located at Talicud Island.
They offer day visit and overnights. You can check out their Facebook page for details of rooms and boat schedules. Click here => Isla Reta
For us, we made sure to get to Sta. Ana Wharf as early as possible. We read that once the boat is full, it will leave earlier than the scheduled time. It was a Saturday and I expected it's packed of tourists. We rode a cab going there.
Boat ride to Isla Reta takes an hour. We left Sta. Ana Wharf around 9:45 AM and reached the island at around 11:00 AM AM. Boat is scheduled to leave Isla Reta at 3:00 PM and so we didn't waste any time. We basked under the sun!
Isla Reta is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, camping and events venue. The sand is white, clear blue waters and long shoreline (perfect for camping). You can use their cottages or tables for free. You may bring your own food without corkage fee or you may opt to order food from the resort. I suggest you bring your own food as it's expensive in Isla Reta for obvious reasons.
We only stayed for a day. Our initial plan was to spend a night in the island. But since I needed an internet connection (because of work), I worried there might not be cellular signal there. It turns out that cell signal is pretty strong in the island.
We left Isla Reta against our will :( We wanted to stay longer...
Next time....
I highly recommend this place. Be sure to stay overnight - camp or book a room.
Boat ride to Isla Reta takes an hour. We left Sta. Ana Wharf around 9:45 AM and reached the island at around 11:00 AM AM. Boat is scheduled to leave Isla Reta at 3:00 PM and so we didn't waste any time. We basked under the sun!
Isla Reta is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, camping and events venue. The sand is white, clear blue waters and long shoreline (perfect for camping). You can use their cottages or tables for free. You may bring your own food without corkage fee or you may opt to order food from the resort. I suggest you bring your own food as it's expensive in Isla Reta for obvious reasons.
We only stayed for a day. Our initial plan was to spend a night in the island. But since I needed an internet connection (because of work), I worried there might not be cellular signal there. It turns out that cell signal is pretty strong in the island.
We left Isla Reta against our will :( We wanted to stay longer...
Next time....
I highly recommend this place. Be sure to stay overnight - camp or book a room.
SELF-DRIVE CAR RENTAL thru DIAMOND RENT-A-CAR
We opted to rent a car to get to Eden Nature Park. On our 3rd and last day, we checked out from the hotel at around 7AM, placed our luggage at the back of the car and off we went! It was so convenient especially seeing that Eden Nature Park is far from the City's highway and commuting looks like a hassle. Most of the taxi's and vans I noticed are rented. Also, we were able to stop by some stores to buy pasalubong. Imagine, it won't be this much convenient had it been we hailed a cab everytime we wanted to go to one place to another.
You can either email Diamond prior your arrival. Responses based on my experience takes a while, so it's best to call them. No advanced deposit required. They will just get your name, date of reservation and contact number. Be sure to reserve in advance!
Diamond Rent-A-Car
Address: Unit 5B Bajada Plaza Bldg., J.P Laurel Avenue, Davao City
Contact Numbers: (082) 222-4935 / (0917) 824-5659
Email Address: davao@diamondfleetmanagement.com
Website: http://www.diamond-rentacar.com/home.php
Requirements:You can either email Diamond prior your arrival. Responses based on my experience takes a while, so it's best to call them. No advanced deposit required. They will just get your name, date of reservation and contact number. Be sure to reserve in advance!
Diamond Rent-A-Car
Address: Unit 5B Bajada Plaza Bldg., J.P Laurel Avenue, Davao City
Contact Numbers: (082) 222-4935 / (0917) 824-5659
Email Address: davao@diamondfleetmanagement.com
Website: http://www.diamond-rentacar.com/home.php
3 Valid ID's
-Driver's License
-Credit Card or Cash for deposit (10,000-refundable)
-Advance Payment (for the car rental)
Rates:
Toyota Wigo MT - Php 1,000
Toyota Vios MT - Php 1,600
*Rate is good for 24 hours self drive without fuel. With 200km mileage capacity, excess mileage charged Php 2.50/km.
Here's what I remember:
1. They require credit card or cash deposit (Php 10,000). For credit card holders, they will put a temporary charge in your card, which they will cancel upon return of the car key without any serious damage.
2. All their cars are insured. So, in case you damaged the car pretty bad, they'll collect participation fee which they will deduct from your deposit.
3. They collect rental fee in advance. For us, it's Php 1,000 for Wigo MT.
4. Gas is in full tank. Before returning the car, make sure to drop by the gas station to refill it full.
5. There is mileage limit. After 200 km mileage, will be charged Php 2.50/km (not bad!)
6. There is GPS attached to the car so they'd know your exact location
7. A guys will show you the car's dents and scratches that are already there. So, if there is a dent/scratch that's not in their checklist, it's considered as your liability. So, make sure that you check the car and it's checklist.
8. 24 hours is the time limit but they provide a lee-way of 1 hour.
9. After returning the car key, those who provided their card, they'll call their bank to remove the temporary charge. You'll be given a receipt that the transaction was cancelled. For your own peace of mind, you can call your bank.
I think, that's it.
EDEN NATURE PARK
It's true, Eden Nature Park is one of the must-visit place in Davao. It's best to spend an entire day here especially if you have kids. This park has an awesome playground. Their restaurant is a must-try with good buffet spread (and ice cream too!). This park has so many things to offer! Better check it out!
The hightlight of our trip is the sky adventure! Don't ever miss this. Sky cycling is fun! I got scared at the first few seconds but had a blast afterwards.
It was Bee and Alviss' first time to try zipline and it was memorable. The guides were even so kind enough to take our photos and videos using our phones.
 |
| Alviss was still scared of riding on his own zipline. |
After lunch, we decided to leave Eden. It was an hour drive back to the city and we had to stop by pasalubong center.
PASALUBONG
We were so pressed with time that we didn't get a chance to explore different places to buy pasalubong. We only had 3 days in Davao. We were able to get to Pasalubong Center infront of Apo View Hotel (we bought candies and chocolates. very few choices), Aldevinco Shopping Center (where we bought our T-shirts and wallets. You have to haggle) and Market (where we bought Pomelo and candies).
There, our Oh, Davao trip with Alviss! There are still a lot of things to visit. A 5-day visit is a must.
ITINERARY
Here's the summary of our trip:
Day 1 -
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM - Departure from NAIA Terminal 3 and arrival in Davao International Airport
9:00 AM - 12:00 NN - Travel to People's park and lunch
1:00 PM - check in at Hotel Galleria
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM - explored by foot - City Hall, Museo Dabawenyo and park. Then dropped by Pasalubong Center.
Day 2 - Isla Reta
6:00 AM - wake up call
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM - breakfast at the hotel
7:30 AM - 7:45 AM - left hotel and arrival in Sta. Ana Wharf via a cab/taxi
10:45 AM - 11:00 AM - left Sta. Ana Wharf and arrival in Isla Reta, Talicud Island
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Free time
3:00 PM - 4:15 depart Isla Reta and back in Sta. Ana Wharf
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM - depart the Wharf. Via a taxi, bound for Diamond Cars to pick up the rented car
6:00 PM - left Diamond cars and drove back to the hotel
Free Time
Day 3 - Eden Nature Park
6:00 AM - wake up call
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM - breakfast at the hotel. check out
-- dropped by the market to buy pomelo --
8:45 AM - arrival in Eden Nature Park
-- free time --
1:30 PM - left Eden Park. dropped by Aldevinco Shopping Center
5:00 PM - dropped off Diamond cars to return the car
5:30 PM - left Diamond Cars, going to the Airport
6:00 PM - checked in at Davao International Airport
7:50 PM - 9:50 PM - departure from Davao International Airport; Arrival in NAIA Terminal 3
Here's the video of our entire Davao trip:
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