DavaoTraveler.com

Davao Travel and Tourism Guide : Hotels, Tours, Adventures, Etc.

Outdoors

Wakeboarding in Davao

by

When you suddenly find yourself aching to stretch some muscles and have some serious water-fun under the sun, the city of Davao will never disappoint.

From long pristine shores to varied water sports to epic water slides, the city also boasts of indoor facilities that exhibit pools of Olympic proportions. And when you thought that was all, then you probably missed the latest water-sport sensation to hit the city and make a lot of waves.

The Deca Wakeboard Park

The first and only wakeboarding facility in Mindanao, the Deca Wakeboard Park, is located in Brgy. Tacunan, Mintal, Davao City. That would be some 20 minutes away from Davao’s downtown; 20 minutes worth of slow-drip anticipation waiting to give away to a lot of mouth-watering fun.

The Deca Wakeboard Park opened its doors on August 2009 to a hefty number of wakeboarding enthusiasts. Both new and experienced wakeboarders were treated to a wild ride as they were introduced to the facility with an outstanding set of facilities and well trained personnel.

Since then, the park has seen an enormous following, with local and international wakeboarders flocking in and around the facility day in and day out.

Being one of the top running wakeboarding facilities in Asia to date, the Deca Wakeboard Park aims to make it even bigger especially on the international arena. The developers are reportedly keen on constantly developing the park’s overall facilities to suit international competitive standards. That, plus a number of amenities around the park to accommodate enthusiasts and visitors in style; expect a multitude of restaurants, sport shops and massage centers to bloom in the area to cater to every conceivable need.

Where In Davao

The Deca wakeboarding facility is actually located in a residential area, the Deca Home Resort Residences. This gives the place a sort of calmness, just like going to the beach on an easy-going weekend. However don’t be deceived by its uptown residential atmosphere, the non-stop action should leave you in awe.

Deca Wakeboard Park Is Waiting

So what are you waiting for? Gather your friends and experience the newest and hippest tourist destination in the city.

The Deca Wakeboarding Facility is open seven days a week, from 8:30 in the morning to 5:30 in the afternoon.

Rate starts at PhP 400 up to PhP 1,000 per person and it comes with the free usage of wakeboard, vest and helmet.

Discounts are available for Davao City residents and the residents of the Deca Home Resort.

Deca On Amateur Cam

This amateur video shows you some folks having fun at the Deca Wakeboard Park one unplanned summer day.

Contact Details

If that sounds like you wanna get some water fun this summer, get in touch with them at

Deca Wakeboard Park
Tacunan, Mintal, Davao City, Philippines

Email : info@xtremewakeinc.com
Phone : (082) 3046005 / (082) 2864078

~~~

Wakeboarding in Davao is written by Randolph Reserva.

Experience Davao Seagull Resorts

by

A chain of resorts in Davao City has provided locals and tourists with countless relaxation and enjoyment through the years. What started out as one resort business gave birth to another two. Located in different areas in the Davao Region, the three Seagull resorts offer different adventures and experiences to people while advocating on one aim — that is to provide the people with the best resort amenities and services possible.

Seagull White Sand Beach

Location : Resort Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya

Along the wide stretch of white sand in Punta Dumalag in Matina Aplaya, the Seagull White Sand Beach Resort can be found. The place is a favorite among beach lovers residing in the city who don’t want to travel in long distances just to relax by the beach. It also became a favorite venue for family gatherings, celebrations, reunions, weekend barkada hang-outs and other social events. And because it has amenities suitable for formal gatherings, the place also became an ideal venue for conferences, symposia and seminars as well as company meetings and gatherings. People enjoy the place’s inviting waters. Deluxe Units, Rest Houses and Picnic Cottages add up to the homey and relaxing feeling that the place provides. Aside from swimming, the area is also good for boating, paddling, wind surfing and many other water activities.

Seagull Mountain Resort

Location : Davao-Bukidnon Road, Brgy. Kitaotao, Lorega

Located 4, 200 feet above sea level, the Seagull Mountain Resort located at the Bukidnon-Davao Highway (BuDa), is perfect for those who are looking for a cooler and quiet place. The place provides a different ambiance the gives people peace of mind. You can actually see mountain fog while enjoying the free-flowing and gushing swimming pool. For those who can stand the cold, they can take a hike at the extensive area and visit the hidden natural waterfalls. Sights of pine trees and large areas of forest lands can be viewed from one of the cottages. There are different kinds of Cottages and Log Cabins perfect for overnight stays. All accommodation rooms are fully furnished to ensure comfort and convenience.

Photos Of Seagull Beach Resort and Seagull Mountain Resort

Seagull Inland Resort and Spa

Location : Camp 10, Guihing, Hagonoy, Davao del Sur

The newest addition to the Seagull resort chains was established in 2005. Located at Camp 10, Guihing, Hagonoy, Davao del Sur, the Seagull Inland Resort and Spa is fast becoming the prime tourist resort destination in the province of Davao del Sur. The place provides a good outdoor experience considering that it was built on a former 5.5-hectare coconut and corn farm. With well-kept environment and convenient facilities and amenities, the resort is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, corporate retreats, outdoor vacations and others. The spa staff is very hospitable ready to assist you as you enjoy their nearly Olympic-sized swimming pool, outdoor fire range, organic gardens, and coffee shop. There is also a Spa that offers relaxing body massage, facials, and other spa services as well as private Jacuzzi rooms. The place is perfect for a relaxation escapade away from the noise of the city.

Seagull Resorts offer a myriad of alternatives to people. Wherever you are and whatever you want to do, these Seagull Resorts is perfect for your escapade.

Contact Seagull Resorts

Booking Office : +63.82.2960303 or 2970221 (Mondays – Saturdays, 8am – 5pm)
Beach Resort Front Office : +63.82.3010100 or 3010097
Mountain Resort Office : +63.82.2864124
Inland Resort Office : +63.82.2863233

Email Address : davaoseagullresorts@gmail.com

~~~

This article on Seagull Resorts is written by Matias Regis, Jr.

Wet and Wild: Whitewater Tubing in Sibulan River

by

Whitewater tubing is one of the most exciting and popular river activities in the world. It is another fun way to bathe in the sun, laugh with family and friends and cool off from the heat while braving the river’s waters. Being drifted by the strong current without the control of a paddle sweats out the adventure juices in you.

Destination: Sibulan River

If you are in Davao City and loves this river adventure, well, you are not that far away from this exciting wet and wild outdoor adventure. Whitewater tubing is already in the Davao region and it gives you more than the river escapade you crave for. The Sibulan River in Darong, Sta. Cruz Davao del Sur is known for whitewater tubing and have been a preferable destinations by water sports enthusiasts, local and foreign tourists through the years. Often visited during summer, the place surely makes people wet and wild. Even frequent Davao City tourists come and take a plunge in Sibulan since it is very close to the Davao’s southern boundary.

Going There

Going to Sibulan River from downtown Davao City would be better with someone who knows the direction especially if you do not have a personal transportation service. People who go to Sibulan River the first time should keep his eyes open since no particular highway signage indicates direction towards the river. Stop by at Ayala Agricultural Development Corporation in Brgy. Sibulan. For those who have cars, go right along the bumpy rough road until you reach a copra processing area. It is approximately 100 meters from the national highway. From the processing plant, make a left to the open parking space area. Parking is charged Php 40.00 per vehicle.

Public transportation is also available for those who want extra adventures on their way. One may ride a bus going to Sta. Cruz at the Davao City Transport Terminal beside SM City at Quimpo Blvd. If this is your preferred way of going there, stop by at the Ayala Agricultural Development Corporation and look for an available “habal-habal” or motorcycle and ask to be brought at the whitewater tubing base site. This may cost you Php20- Php 30. The Ayala Canteen is the base site for whitewater tubing.

From the base, you need to walk a more than 100-meter rocky and muddy road, so you have to secure durable sandals or you may have to take it off to avoid slipping. With friends, this trail would be nothing but fun. You may also enjoy the rich vegetation along the way. And once you reach the river, the whitewater tubing fun will begin. You may want to pay for a guide for more security.

davao white water tubing outdoor adventureTransportation expenses, guide fees and equipment rentals will only cost you no more than Php 400 per head. But the experience is way more than worth it.

The river activity is indeed exciting and at some point, extreme. The splashing current that will bounce you on rocks may cause little scratches and bruises but it would all be fun. Also you may fall from the tube more than once but just hold on, your guide would not let you slip off. Two hours of this and you have completed the Sibulan River whitewater tubing adventure.

Need A Tour Guide?

Should you need a tour guide or a general overview of the place, you may want to contact Engr. Albert Gabriel. Please refer to his website so more information and some photos of the Sibulan River Water Tubing.

View Albert’s Website at http://photocollectionbyalbert.wordpress.com

Photos of White Water Tubing can be viewed here.

~~~

This article on Whitewater Tubing is written by Matt Regis.

Let’s Get Physical

by

For the adventurous traveler, there’s no better drug than a dose of adrenaline rush. Consider Davao City as your one stop shop not only for savvy and exquisite activities – more than that, Davao also offers the extreme. This time around, let’s look at what you can do while in town to get your adrenals pumping hard, and make your trip a truly unforgettable one.

Hike (and bike) your way to the heavens

If at one point or another, you’ve researched about Davao City, chances are, the highest peak of the Philippines that is Mt. Apo have come to your knowledge as well. Also, there’s a big chance of that knowledge spurning your dreams of conquering peak after peak after peak.

If you’re a newbie climber wanting to experience the Mt. Apo climb once and for all, this is one big leap for you. For experienced climbers, the climb never fails to offer good recreation — a clean environment, pristine flora and fauna, wonderful views. Either way, whether you’re a novice or a pro, climbing Mt. Apo is a one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

But it’s not only Mt. Apo that’s worth trekking in the region. Davao City is also home to immaculate forests and eco-parks. Of course you might have come across the name Malagos Garden Resortwhere you can find indigenous plants and animals at their healthiest. You can also hike or bike around Samal Island, Eden Nature Park, the Kapatagan Trail, or perhaps Davao’s entire third district. Wherever you go, you’ll greet the green and just keep on going!

And if you’re tired of walking and pedaling, how about flying? Try zip-lining! A number of resorts such as Eden and Camp Sabros in Kapatagan, Digos are offering this really exciting ride. So, prep your lungs and shout out loud when you’re riding the air while you’re hanging on a line.

Davao Traveler Tip 1: Just as the responsible mountaineer’s credo says, we’d appreciate it if you take nothing by pictures and leave nothing but footprints. And, of course, come back when you have the chance.

Davao Traveler Tip 2:Come September 2009, a group mountain climbers has organized a team and inviting every adventurer to conquer the Mount Apo. For details, please visit this link.

Water Adventures

Under the sea…
under the sea…
Darling it’s better,
Down where it’s wetter
Take it from me

I just can’t help but sing that song whenever I think about Davao’s rich waters. And no, Davao’s water isn’t only one of the world’s best when it comes to potability, it’s also world class when it comes to recreational value.

Go snorkeling or underwater diving in the Davao Gulf, where the coral gardens are still young yet already blooming with beauty. Just as the Davao Gulf is filled with a lot of “dive-stinations”, Davao also has a number of dive shops to cater to your underwater needs.

For the lovers of speed and power, Samal Island resorts offer a variety of water sports for your total fun under the sun experience. Speed boats, banana boats, jet-skis, name it, and they probably have it. Or if you want to relax, why not rent a boat and tour the gulf and Samal’s resorts for a whole day? That should be fun.

If those weren’t extreme enough for you, then white water tubing and kayaking should push you towards the edge. Tube the rapids of the legendary Davao River and feel the thrill of speed, and the rush of turning and twisting while maneuvering the rocks. If this doesn’t make you shout your lungs out, rinse and repeat – just have fun as much as you can.

Davao Traveler Tip 3: Although these activities are monitored by professionals who will be always there for your safety and comfort, watch out for your kids. Also remember that some activities may require a minimum age limit of 9 years old, a signed waiver, and a lot of guts (the last one shouldn’t be a problem, right?).

Be the Tiger of Davao’s Woods

If you didn’t get that, it means we really want you to become one of the world’s best. And while in Davao, you can practice your strokes in the city’s beautiful golf courses. While the view is breathtakingly relaxing, the courses in the city are never short of challenging. Two of the must visit courses in Davao are the Davao Golf and Country Club, and the Ranchos Palos Verdes. Year in year out, these two courses attract golfers from all over the Philippines, even ones from outside the country.

Davao Traveler Tip 4: If you weren’t born to play golf, don’t fret – Davao is never short of sporting activities to cater to your athletic needs. Basketball courts all over the city can be rented on a per hour basis for you and your friends. You can also play beach volleyball and Frisbee in Samal. And for lovers of football, you don’t have to go far from the city. You can visit the Tionko field in Quimpo Boulevard for a day of kicks under the sun.

So there you go, another feature on what you can possibly do while in Davao. Tune in again next time for more of these. Hopefully, you’ll experience these things yourself.

~~~

Let’ Get Physical is written by Randolph Reserva

Freedom Climb

by

Imagine this: Six towering mountains all over Mindanao…. Eleven Mountaineering Groups… Each mountain climber determined to reach the peak.

“What to do there?”

Simple: Raise the Philippine Flag. That’s it.

“Are you nuts?”

Not for those mountaineering folks from the Philippine National Mountaineering Society. The group aims to gather the mountaineers all over the country to organize the biggest celebration of Independence Day in different Mountain peaks all “over the Philippines as a tribute to our fallen heroes in commemoration of their gallantry and struggle for our freedom.”

“Independence Day, you say?”

Yes my friend, at exactly 7:00 AM in the morning of June 14, 2009, a simultaneous flag raising ceremony will be done.

Now that’s one heroic and patriotic idea.

All Mountaineers Unite

So for those who want to participate in this big event you can coordinate to the Mountaineering Groups involved in this activity.

Here in Mindanao area, the following mountains will be conquered:

  • Mt. Apo – Needs no mention, this is simply the highest of them all.
  • Mt. Kitanglad – said to be the fourth highest mountain in the Philippines. This is located in Bukidnon Province
  • Mt. Putting Bato – the highest peak in the nearby Samal City
  • Mt. Talomo – this one is just in Davao, going farther up the Toril area.
  • Mt. Magwawa – in Davao del Norte
  • Mt. Katambad – somebody please tell me where this mountain is.. 😉
  • Cliff Hanger Peak – do we really have this in Mindanao?

And the eleven Mountaineering Groups that will be joining the activity:

  • MFSM (Mountaineering Federation of Southern Mindanao)
  • TEAK (Telecommunications Ecological And Adventure Klab)
  • LOGSAC (Local Government of Sta. Cruz) Adventure Club)
  • SAVERS (Sta. Cruz Active Volunteers for Emergency & Rescue Services)
  • MOSS (Apo Mountaineering Outdoor Sports Society,Inc.)
  • MOSACA (Mountain Scaler Asian Club Adventure, Inc.)
  • ADAMCI (Adventist Davao Mountaineering Club, Inc.)
  • Care Group (Coordinated Action Responding Emergency)
  • TRIMMOC (Tribong Mindanao Mountaineering Club)
  • CALMOC (Calinan Mountaineering Club)

So, all mountaineers in the Philippines, unite! The date is one June 14, 2009, (Independence Day is June 12) but you should get in touch with your mountaineering group prior to that.

~~~

This article is contributed by:

Engr. Albert C. Gabriel
MCTCA Vice Chairman for Eco-Tourism
Freedom Climb Coordinator for Mindanao

10 Minutes To Paradise

by

One of the things I love about being a Davaoeña is the fact that “burn out” is an abstract concept to me. With the pace of life here in Davao there is always time to do the things I need to do and still have time to relax in between. Allow me to share with you my relaxation quick fix. Whenever I feel like I am starting to get stressed, I get into a cab, direct the driver to Barrio Pampanga, hop on a boat and in about ten minutes I find myself in paradise. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a work day or the weekend; paradise is always just ten minutes away from Davao City.

Paradise Island is a resort on a stretch of beach in Caliclic, Samal Island. Not just boasting its beach line, this resort has developed its amenities and now offers not just the benefits of sand and sea but a host of inland activities and sights. What I like about this resort is that it is still quite affordable, the prices are tourist friendly without compromising the service.

White Sand, Clear Blue Water

Beating the heat in cool, clear blue water is always enough to while your troubles away. I would recommend the early mornings up until about 10 am where the tide is still high and the water is almost kissing the picnic tables where you can enjoy your breakfast. If you want the beach all to yourself, visit the resort on weekdays. Sometimes the best way to clear a crowded head is to just sit and listen to the waves lap the shore. You can hang out by their break water steps and feed the fish (the kids really get a kick out of this one by the way!), go swimming, or you could just lie back on one of their sun beds and take a relaxing nap. They even have a house of massage which is just by the water.

Delicious Food

Since this resort is so accessible from the city, you can visit this resort over an extended lunch. The food is delicious and not as pricey as you would expect from a resort. You can just kick off your shoes for a bit and take in the sights while you enjoy a good meal. The barbeque and seafood selection is a must try as well as their refreshing tropical shakes and treats. Or if you are really going to there for the beach, you don’t have to stress about preparing a picnic basket because you can just order from their extensive menu. With that worry out of the way, you can just wear your board shorts, pick up your snorkeling gear and sun block, hop in a cab and head for Paradise.

Aqua Sports Galore

For those of us who are after something more than just the beach experience try the array of water sports. My personal favorite is the intro dive which you can do for a very affordable price or you can just rent some snorkeling gear and check out the beauty of the world beneath the sea. The corals are alive just beyond the nets they set up in the water for the safety of swimmers so there is no need to rent a boat just so you can appreciate the beauty the bottom of the ocean has to offer. If scuba diving is not your thing, there are still a host of other things you can do, like kayaking, aqua cycling and jet skiing.

Other Stuff You Can Do

If you are not in the mood for swimming or all the other things I just mentioned, there are still other things to do at this particular resort. You can visit their aviary or their mini zoo or just take a stroll in their gardens. The resort also has ping pong and billiard tables where you can sip beer or one of those yummy fruit shakes and relax over a game or two. Or if you are up for something more adventurous, you can go trekking or take an inland tour of the island.

I don’t mind mentioning that the resort is best enjoyed with some companions although going there won’t be boring either. So if you ever find yourself in need of a relaxation quick fix, this resort is definitely something you should consider. In my opinion, relaxation should never be expensive and at this resort you don’t need to worry so much about dishing out too much just to unwind. What’s important is that you get to enjoy leisure without really going out of your way to escape the hustle of the everyday routine.

Have fun! Go ahead and relax. You deserve it. Besides, its not a world away. It’s just 10 minutes to paradise.

~~~

This article on Paradise Beach Resort in Samal is written by Monique “Nikki” Musni, just in time for the Lenten Season when everyone is thinking of going to the beach to unwind. Nikki loves the Paradies Island Resort, unfortunately her photos of the resort is not yet ready, so it’s best to check out their website if you need to contact them. The resort’s Web Address is at http://www.paradiseislanddavao.com.