Trip to Davao, Day 1

January 8, 2011

Davao City

They say that patience is a virtue. That saying perfectly describes my first out-of-town trip in the Year of the Metal Rabbit. We bought the tickets last June 2010 through Cebu Pacific's piso fare promo. Mind you, we only spent Php 497 for our roundtrip tickets. It was indeed a very, very excellent deal considering that there are five (moi, Ma & Pa, fiance and nephew) of us in this trip.

So, the first photo is my way of showing my gratitude to Mr. Lance Gokongwei's business.

 

An obligatory airport shot for our piso flight

Did you know that Davao International Airport collects Php 200 as terminal fee? I learned that when we took our flight back to Manila. It's quite expensive, if you ask me. Anyway, we checked in at the Bagobo House Hotel located in Governor Duterte Street, downtown area. Because it's brunch time when we landed, we searched for comfort food and we found it at Penong's.

 

I literally burped after our delicious meal at Penong's.

Now, it's time to pay the touristy spots a visit.

 

We visited Pag-asa, the famous Philippine eagle, at the Philippine Eagle Center. Is there hope to see Pag-asa up close? I hope so.

 

A loner croc at Davao Crocodile Park

 

I got fascinated with this replica of a native house at the Tribu K' Mindanawan Cultural Village. Reminds me of Tam-awan Village in Baguio City.

After taking pictures and more pictures until I get satisfied, we rewarded ourselves with a heavy meal at Pard's Restaurant, just beside Penong's. We initially wanted Penong's but it was so jampacked with hungry diners. Since we're not that patient people when it comes to food, we dined at Pard's. Quick service, tasty food and very affordable.

  

My ultimate favorite: fresh kinilaw tuna from Pacman's territory

Overall, my trip to Davao has been very educational and a bit nostalgic in a strange way. It's where my folks met and fell in love and decided to make me their firstborn. Although I don't have a vivid memory of the place anymore, I really felt that every cell of my body originated in this friendly city. I hope to be back for the ubiquitous durian!