matccopublishers

Boracay Island

Cebu City

Philippines

Davao City

Davao is a bustling city known not only for its size but the rich intersection of Eastern, Western and ethnic elements. The Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague, the mark of early Spanish Christian influence, offers a good view of the town. The Lon Wa Temple (or Long Hua Temple) illustrates the Eastern presence, and carries excellent woodcarvings and statues of Buddha. It is the biggest Buddhist temple in Mindanao and houses the Philippine Academy of Shakya. The Etnika Dabaw and Dabaw museum feature the weaving and decorating skills of the region's cultural minorities, such as the Mansaka, Manobo and Bagobo.

Davao is also famous for its flora, particularly the orchids. Over 1,000 species of this flower grow in the Philippines, and the vanda sanderiana is native only to Mindanao. Some of the more famous orchid gardens are the Puentaspina Orchid Gardens, GAP Farming Orchid Resort, and the Derling Orchid Resort. Aside from the fauna, Davao is famous for the Philippine Eagle and the Philippine Eagle Breeding Station on Mt. Apo.

Davao's beaches are another favorite tourist destination. Particularly beautiful are Paradise Island Beach, Talikud Island and Eagle Camp, where white sands and deep sparkling seas tempt the guests to bathe under the tropical sun, jetski, or scuba dive. Golfers will enjoy the Apo Golf and Country Club, and for those who want a more adventurous trip, there is the Caroland Resort for horseback riding and fishing.

Davao is also a good place to shop. Tourists can purchase batik, antiques, brass, baskets, musical instruments, chinese wares, art work and tribal artifacts for relatively cheap prices, or head for the markets for fruits (try the infamous durian, Davao's speciality fruit that 'stinks like hell but tastes like heaven'). A famous and popular market is the Aldevinco Shopping center.