DAVAO THE ROYAL CITY

Hb and I plan ahead of time to visit some of the great attractions in the city, but it turned out to be a delightful gastronomic journey of discovery where we enjoyed the wonderful flavors and aromas of Davao.

City Hall of Davao - the former
municipal building constructed in 1926

The Commemorative Monument
of Peace and Unity in front of the city hall

city street


As a new visitor, I just found out that Davao has numerous exciting places to eat out. Although, most of the restaurants specializes more in Inihaw (grill) and Kinilaw (a raw fish normally spiced with vinegar, lemon, ginger, onion or chili), there are also variety of dishes to offer that would certainly entice culinary diners, and sure to please even the most discerning palate. Moreover, locals and visitors alike will be spoilt for choice when it comes to many friendly hang out spots and nightlife in Davao.

(inihaw) grilled chicken


We spent our weekend getaway just "restaurant hopping" in the city. We visited Majid's Kabab, Ahfat Seafood Plaza, Blugre Coffee, Talaba Joe Oyster Bar and Restaurant, Banoks, Karlo's Coffee, Pards Seafood Grill and Restaurant, and Penong's Barbecue Seafood and Grill.



We also experienced Davao at Jack Ridges, Matina Town Square and People's Park, and popped into several shopping centers like Aldevinco Shopping Center (it houses over 1oo shops showcasing various batik products, imported textiles, antique & brass items, and indigenous musical instruments), Lachmi shopping mall and Latikan shopping mall.

some of the shopping centers in Davao


Davao also pride itself for its copious supply of fresh seafood and succulent fruits.



For those who don't know, Davao City is the capital of Region XI and in the southern part of Mindanao, Philippines. It is the third biggest metropolitan area next to Manila (a two-hour flight) and Cebu (one-hour flight). It is also known as the world's largest city in terms of land area and is one of the most peaceful cities in Asia.

Ateneo de Davao University is a private Catholic
university owned and operated by the Society of Jesus
Rizal Park
Rizal monument in Rizal Park
Some notes that I read about San Pedro Cathedral said that it was originally built in 1847 during the Spanish colonial period using only nipa and bamboo materials, but later rebuilt in wood in the mid 1900s, and remodeled in concrete in 1964, but some said it was changed in the 70's.
San Pedro Cathedral
inside the cathedral
The roof line of the cathedral look like a vinta (a traditional boat found in the island of Mindanao) carrying a cross at its helm. It is said that vinta represent Muslim Mindanao and the cross represent Christianity - united in spite of their differences.
Davao has been known as the Royal City because it boasts of the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo, the most prized Philippine orchid species like the Waling Waling, the exotic Durian fruit, and the endangered Philippine Eagle.

Taxis are the best way to get around the city or you can hop-on/hop-off a jeepney where the locals do. Alternatively, you can also choose hopping on a tricycle and explore its nooks and crannies.

🌸 If you like this post, click the link below to SHARE! Thank you.

You Might Also Like

10 comments

AN ASIAN TRAVELER, Exploring Asia!