Davao accommodation from AU$35

Starting offshore, travellers who want beaches and water should head to Samal Island, which again has an exotic official name, Island Garden City of Samal. The clutch of beautiful beaches, bays and coral reefs encourage exploration, which can be a lot of fun on a motorbike. The good part is that a lot of the resorts on Samal are open to day guests willing to pay a fee – get ready to sip cocktails by the water in between sightseeing.

Back on the mainland, Davao City is a hotbed of history and culture, but also a great place to lighten your wallet. A trip to one of the many Davao City malls offers designer brands, stylish fashion and great bargains as well as entertainment at cinemas and clubs. There is also a wealth of food options here, with great Japanese cuisine, which is surprising until you learn that Japanese settlers arrived here in the 1930s – of course the amazing seafood ingredients help!

More about Davao’s past can be uncovered at Museo Dabawenyo. You’ll find the history is a complex one involving many tribes. This is why it is doubly rewarding to take to the trails near and on Mount Apo, an unmistakable multi-peaked mountain to the southeast. You’ll see some fantastic natural environments and perhaps stumble upon the indigenous population, each with their own unique dress.

If that’s not enough, some ziplining at Outland Adventure northeast of the city shows the jungle from a different perspective to say the least. Further out of town you’ll find the Philippine Eagle Centre. This massive, critically endangered bird is one of the world’s largest and nothing short of impressive up close.

Whether you want to stretch your legs or relax, this southern region of the Philippines will abide. Check out our Davao accommodation to find a hotel that best suits your travel dreams, couple it with a flight to Davao and you’re set!