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Get To Know Davao: Crown Jewel Of The South
Davao City is located in the southern part of Mindanao and is known for its vibrant culture, booming economy, and breathtaking views. The city is characterized by a mix of urban development and natural beauty, including Mount Apo, located nearby and known as the highest peak in the Philippines. Davao City’s economy is diverse, with key industries including agriculture, manufacturing, trade, and services. It is a major center for the production and export of various agricultural products, such as bananas, pineapples, and other tropical fruits.
It is one of the places in the Philippines that is known as a strategic location with access to the sea and is surrounded by diverse natural landscapes, including mountains, hills, forests, and coastlines. Get to know the ultimate guide when visiting Davao City.
What is Davao City Famous For?
Davao: Crown Jewel of the South
When you visit Davao City, there are three remarkable things that you will notice. The smiling faces of Davaoeños, the beautiful sceneries, and the growing economy. Its primary economic booster is Agriculture. That is why local, international, and multinational corporations’ headquarters can be found in the city, namely, Del Monte, Dole, and Sarangani Agricultural Corp. Other industrial and manufacturing plants are also based in Davao City, like Pepsi-Cola, Coca-Cola Bottlers, and Phoenix Petroleum. Additionally, the city center also has business centers and shopping malls, including Gaisano Mall, Abreeza Mall, and SM Lanang Premier.
These are just a few reasons why it is called the Crown Jewel, not because of precious stones but because of the unmatched treasures it offers.
Safety and Cleanliness in the Crown Jewel of the South
Davao City is often recognized for its reputation as one of the safest and cleanest cities in the Philippines. The local government has implemented strict regulations and policies aimed at maintaining order and cleanliness. In the year 2017, despite the city’s rapid development, a national environmental body designated Davao City as a “Clean Air City” and former Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio as a Clean Air Champion for maintaining clean and fresh air.
Durian Capital of the Philippines
The city is also known for its thriving fruit planting, but there is one fruit that represents the city. Durian fruit is famously associated with Davao City, it is often referred to as the “King of Fruits.” Durian has a distinctive odor that some find unpleasant, but it is considered a delicacy by many locals and is a significant part of the city’s identity.
The combination of Davao’s rich volcanic soil and moderate climate makes for ideal growing conditions for durians. Another fruit that benefits the local ecosystem is Mangosteen. These factors make Davao City one of the Mindanao region’s top exporters of exotic fruits.
What To Do In Davao City, Crown Jewel of the South?
Staying for a night or two inDavao City is not enough because of the many things it could offer. You could stay in some famous hotels like the Marco Polo Davao, or if your heart discerns to stay for good, you could look for a luxury real estate or luxury condo that Brittany Corporation offers. However, here are just some travel tips when going to Davao- Crown Jewel of the South.
1. Hiking to Mount Apo
Davao City has the most accessible path for trekking and hiking the country’s highest mountain, Mount Apo. The best time to hike Mount Apo is during the dry season or the hottest months, which typically falls between this month (November) and April. The weather is more favorable, and the trails are less slippery. Avoid hiking during the rainy season due to increased risks of landslides and difficult trail conditions.
Hiking Mount Apo can be physically demanding. It is recommended that you have a good level of fitness and endurance. Start training well in advance with cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking to prepare your body for the rigors of the trail. But do remember that while climbing, it requires some preparation and a guide. Exploring the lower slopes and enjoying the beautiful surroundings is an option for all fitness levels. Hiking Mount Apo is not just about reaching the summit; it’s also about enjoying the journey, taking in the breathtaking scenery, and appreciating the unique flora and fauna that you’ll encounter along the way.
2. Island Hopping to Davao’s Beaches
When visiting Davao City, you may be in awe seeing how clean, safe, and well-organized the Davao International Airport formerly known as the Francisco Bangoy International Airport. But that is just the start of your beautiful trip to the city. Although it is considered the largest city in the country in terms of land area, the place is also famous for its well-known white sand beaches like the Samal island.
Outside the Davao International Airport, you will step out of the warm and fresh air brought by the ocean breeze. Island hopping to Davao’s beaches is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful coastal areas and nearby islands of Davao City and the surrounding region. As mentioned above, Samal Island is one of the go-to beaches in Davao City. They say you never went to Davao when you did not reach Samal island.
Samal Island, also known as the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCOS), is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Davao City in the southern Philippines. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike due to its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of attractions. Hagimit Falls is a popular natural attraction on the island. It’s a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation. Many luxury resorts on the island offer spa and wellness services, so you can enjoy massages and relaxation treatments in a serene, natural setting.
3. Celebrating Kadayawan Festival
Davao City celebrates an annual week-long festival during the third week of August which is called the Kadayawan Festival. You can witness their colorful attire, traditional dances, and rituals during the festival.
The festival’s name “Kadayawan” is derived from the local Mandaya word “madayaw,” which means “good” or “beautiful.” The festival has its roots in the indigenous tribes of Davao and is a way to celebrate the city’s cultural heritage, bountiful harvest, and the good things in life. Kadayawan Festival features a wide range of events and activities that highlight the cultural diversity of Davao including street dancing competitions, a floral float parade, an agro-industrial fair, food and crafts fair, and ethnic sports and games.
4. Visiting the Famous Attractions
Philippine Eagle Center
The Davao Philippine Eagle Center, often referred to as the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC), is a wildlife conservation and research facility that plays a crucial role in the conservation efforts of the critically endangered Philippine eagle- one of the world’s rarest and most majestic raptors.
The main attraction at the center is the Philippine eagle, often called the “Monkey-eating Eagle” (also known as the country’s national bird) due to its historical reputation. The center conducts research on these birds, studies their behavior, and works to protect their natural habitat. In addition to Philippine eagles, the center is also involved in the conservation of other endangered species, such as the Philippine hawk-eagle, the Philippine serpent eagle, and the Philippine owl.
Davao Crocodile Park
Davao Crocodile Park is not only an entertaining and educational destination but also a hub for wildlife conservation efforts. It is a great place for families, animal enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about reptiles and wildlife conservation. The park offers entertaining and educational animal shows that showcase the behaviors and abilities of crocodiles, as well as other animals such as different birds and snakes. These shows are both informative and engaging for visitors of all ages.
Malagos Garden Resort
Malagos Garden Resort is one of Davao’s famous eco-tourism destinations. It is located at the foothills of Mount Apo and offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors including a chocolate museum where you can learn about the cacao bean’s journey from tree to bar.
The Malagos Chocolate Museum is part of the Malagos Garden Resort in Davao. It is known for its involvement in the chocolate-making process, from cacao farming to the production of high-quality chocolate products. You can take a guided tour to learn about cacao and make your own chocolate. Another eco-tourism destination is the Eden Nature Park- a serene and family-friendly destination where you can connect with nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a place where you can relax, explore, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Philippines.
Conclusion
Davao City has surely captured many tourists’ hearts and souls. It is worth noting that the city has attracted residents and tourists for its unique blend of safety, cleanliness, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities.
Brittany Homes in Davao City offers luxury condominiums which is an excellent location when you want to live the best of your solo living or build a family. With the ease of safety, you also have the opportunity to live near the country’s beautiful destinations, may it be at sea or on land.
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