Philippines Guide
For Travelers, Expats and Pinoys
Davao Sightseeing Guide
With it’s rich and natural beauty, Davao City is never less than an interesting place for sightseeing. Found in Region XI, the coastline of the city is definitely spectacular and offers a picturesque of paradise resembling those that you see in postcards. If you are planning to visit Davao anytime soon, here’s a Davao Sightseeing guide to help in your trip.
Among the most scenic sights that the region offers is the Samal Island. A coastal destination that is mostly enjoyed by beach lovers. The white sand of the island adds up to the beauty of the scenery as it is known to be a paradise. Samal Island features a variety of beach resorts including the world renowned Pearl Farm Beach Resort. Going to the island from the city and touring the island will require the use of a boat.
Another beautiful destination is the Eden Nature Park. As the name implies, it’s like new world Garden of Eden. It’s roughly forty minutes away from the heart of the city. Eden Nature Park is a popular nature scenery in Davao. It’s sits about 3’000 ft. above the sea level thus giving that very cool and pleasant climate, not too hot and not too cold. The park has been landscaped perfectly to achieve that very nature scenery perfect for sightseeing. You can ride a public utility jeepney, a bus or a car to reach the park.
Davao City also showcases a rich culture through the Ethnic Villages within the city’s parameter. These villages offers a unique insight about the daily life of the indigens and the culture that brought them to the world. Among these Ethnic Villages are the Samal Villages in Rio Hondo, Bagobo Village of Binaton, and B’laan Village of Matanao.
Davao Sightseeing will never be complete without taking a peek on two of the most popular tourist destinations of the city, the Mount Apo and the Philippine Eagle Center. Mount Apo, or known as the “grandfather of all mountains”, peaks about 3,144 about the sea level. It is known to be the tallest mountain in the Philippines. By means of area covering, the base of the mountain is about 72,796 hectares. Mount Apo is a dormant volcano and history has never recorded an eruption in this volcano. The jungle and forest areas of the mountain includes natural scenery of epic waterfalls, lakes, geysers and flora and fauna, mostly endangered species. An organized trek to the mountain can be inquired at the local tour operators.
The Philippine Eagle Center (PEC), the home of the eagle Pag-asa which was hatched and bred in captivity in the PEC. The center is a facility that houses monkey-eating eagles and other variety of eagles. It is a fifty minute right from the heart of the city. The Philippine eagle center is among the most famous nature based attractions of the city.
Exploring the Prestigious Hotels of Davao
Davao’s hotels include many types from the lavish to the mundane and they are considered as one of the city’s important economic sources. People from all parts of the Philippines visit Davao’s hotels in order to see its famous exclusive and ordinary hotels and dine in its fine restaurants.
The hotels of Davao are among the fastest growing economic sectors in the city. In fact, Davao hotels by themselves are recognized as multi-million peso and still a progressing business in Davao. The hotels of Davao are among the major economic forces in the city as its enables growth and creation of job opportunities.
The hotel business in Davao has employed over a thousand workers who are distributed within various Davao hotels, totaling a revenue generation of billions of pesos. From recent records, the hotels of Davao have indeed become one of the most competitive businesses in the Philippines.
In spite of the increasing popularity of these hotels as an urban tourist destination, certain hotel business issues affect the influx of tourists and the revenue acquired from this business. The problem in competition for example, is one of the growing concerns of the hotel business in Davao. Fierce competition happens among the best and well-known hotels, such as Davao City Hotel, Apo View Hotel Davao, Marco Polo Hotel Davao and Insular Century Hotel Davao.
In addition, customer satisfaction is one of the highly significant priorities in the business. Being the major source of tourism revenue, the hotel business owners of, for example, the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao, Davao Galleria Hotel and Davao Grand Regal Hotel are applying various strategies that will enhance the experience of visitors coming to the city.
One of the main issues relevant to the need of assessing service quality is the significant transitions that Davao’s hotels must undergo. One of the recognized changes was the transformation of its first class and ordinary hotels. The once conventional hotels were converted into modernized ones. This transition implies the apparent increase of small firms providing tourism services at present, while the first class and ordinary hotel business in Davao used to be dominated by a few producers.
In other words, the hotel owners in Davao now have a number of accesses to strategies and factors that amplify business competition. While this tendency has in many ways improved the overall state of the hotel business of Davao City, hotel owners also encounter difficulties to operate their businesses successfully, making the evaluation of service quality all the more essential.
Hotel owners have also stated that the competition in the hotel business is augmented by new strategies introduced and implemented by various hotels. With the introduction of information and communication technology (ICT) in some of Davao’s hotels such as Davao City Hotel, Apo View Hotel Davao, Marco Poo Hotel Davao and Insular Century Hotel Davao, and the inclusion of other technological facilities, tourists have more options and control over they type of hotels they want to stay in.
Hence, with the present advancements, first class and ordinary hotels in Davao are giving more importance to specialized and enhanced forms of services for tourists, especially the service quality in these hotels.
[Tags]Davao, Philippines, Tourism, Mindanao, Davao Hotels, Service, Restaurants[/Tags]
General Santos Government Sites
General Santos City: All about Tuna
The Tuna Capital of the Philippines had been cited as the ‘Most Competitive City’ because of its economic competency and stability. Agro-industry has been the strong commercial enterprise that enhanced the city of General Santos’ financial system. This feat would never be realized without a clear cut vision and mission declaration guiding them to live with.
Mission and Vission of General Santos City
The city’s mission: ‘To provide opportunities to all sectors of society to be productive and responsible stakeholders, through execution of sound and beneficial programs, projects and initiatives anchored on the principles of justice and equity.’ The main commerce of the place is agro-industrial and for this reason, the local government provided leverage on the promotion of the local products of the city. This has proved to be very effective and it really encouraged local and small entrepreneurs to improve on their crafts.
The local government as well provides alluring incentive that keeps the enthusiasm to keep improving. The city’s vision: ‘By 2015, General Santos City, the Tuna Capital of the Philippines and the wellspring of winners will be a globally competitive and livable city whose healthy, friendly, well-educated and responsible citizens actively participate in effective governance.’ With a clear objective or goal in mind, being globally competitive would be a reality in the near future. Eco-Tourism is also a boost in the city’s economic stability and progress. The Kalaja Eco-Tourism Destination has been a favorite spot for visitors and tourists alike.
The Progress of Tuna Fishing Industry in General Santos City
The tuna fishing business had never been this thriving and prosperous since its conception from the past years to the present. The new technology, strategic location and the needed facilities for fishing had been the factor why General Santos City’s tuna industry is flourishing and for this the city is now is ‘Boom Town City of the South’. In order to make this industry progressive they need to attract local and international investors. The city’s official website (http://www.gensantos.gov.ph/) gives an overview for tourists, visitors or business financiers of what General Santos City is all about. It is loaded with a lot of information and related facts suitable for possible tourists and commercial entrepreneurs. After browsing through the official website, one can never get enough of just a glimpse of the place. An individual needs to be at General Santos City to enjoy its wonders.
General Santos Education
As one of the highly populous areas in the Philippines, General Santos City features a lineup of impressive universities and colleges. These educational facilities are key components of an excellent General Santos education system. Here, students can easily be part of extensive academic programs and enroll in highly interesting courses. From these schools, they can expect to find decent modern facilities, outstanding curricula and other key elements that are crucial for learning.
Holy Trinity College
Located along Fiscal Daproza Avenue, Holy Trinity College was considered a developing educational institution under the Commission on Higher Education Institutional Quality Assurance Monitoring and Evaluation. It has good student personnel services, which aim to provide financial assistance, counseling services and career information. In addition, the school also has some very good facilities to offer including an extensive research center, modern sports and recreational facilities as well as an information technology center. In terms of academics, it showcases numerous impressive courses under its major colleges such as the College of Criminal Justice Administration, College of Teacher Education and College of Information Technology. It also offers technical education courses like Computer Hardware Servicing NC II, Building Wiring Installation NC II and Automotive Servicing NC II.
Mindanao Polytechnic College
With all its beautiful facilities and outstanding academic programs, Mindanao Polytechnic College is easily one of the top schools in the area. Situated at Makar-Polomolok Junction, one of its major aims as an educational institution is to produce professionals who are highly competent in their chosen fields. Likewise, the school aims to imbibe in the character of students important values such as transparency, honesty and integrity. It features different kinds of degree programs, which are divided into various departments including the Department of Information Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Department of Customs Administration.
Notre Dame of Dadiangas University
Established in 1953, Notre Dame of Dadiangas University is found along Marist Avenue, which is part of the extensive General Santos education system. Under the College of Business, it offers courses like Hotel and Restaurant Management, Tourism Management and Financial Management. Furthermore, it also has the College of Engineering and Technology, where students can enroll in courses such as Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Architecture.
Mindanao State University-General Santos City
As a state-owned educational establishment, many people find it really good to enroll at Mindanao State University-General Santos City. This school offers good quality education at super low tuition fee rates. Moreover, it is provides different kinds of scholarships for exceptional students, especially those who are financially challenged. Under its College of Agriculture, students can enroll in undergraduate courses including BSA Horticulture, BSA Animal Science and BS Agricultural Education. It also has other colleges such as the College of Public Affairs, the College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, as well as the College of Health Sciences.
General Santos Beach Guide
There are a lot of activities that you can do when in this beautiful city, but definitely one of the most exciting would be to go visit the beaches in and around the area. This General Santos beach guide can give you an idea of where to go.
One of the destinations that would definitely be worth checking out is Gumasa Beach, which is only a couple of hours away. This General Santos beach guide can inform you that there are several valid reasons why it is so popular among tourists. The waters are very clear and unspoiled, with none of the problems that afflict other beaches that are frequented by too many people. Moreover, the sands around the beach are exceedingly fine, perfect for daily strolls.
Another site that should be in any General Santos beach guide is London Beach off Siguel. Siguel is only a few minutes away by motor vehicle from General Santos, and once you get there, you will be able to savor the pure air and water around the area. There are also resorts nearby so finding a place to stay in will not be a problem.
Nearby is Tropicana Beach. Compared with other beaches, it is quiet and serene, which would be welcomed by tourists and travelers who just want to spend some quiet time by the ocean shore. The cool breeze that emanates from the sea can be felt night and day, so you can visit it at any time and still savor the breeze.
Tuka Beach is also a place worthy of inclusion in this General Santos beach guide. It is situated off Kiamba in Sarangani, which is not that far off from General Santos. The beach is divided into Tuka Beach 1, 2, 3 and 4. Each one is filled with interesting sights, not the least of which are the hills and mountains covering the surrounding landscape.
All of the beaches in Tuka have their own distinct features, and there are several things that you can enjoy. You can go on a boating trip, or as most people now do, go to the nearby theme park, for which the entire place is named. This General Santos beach guide can point out that you will see a wide array of exotic animals in the area, several of which are located only in the local seas.
This General Santos beach guide only gives you an overview of the features of these sites. Once there, you will find other hidden treasures and thrills that will make your stay even more exciting.
General Santos Travel Guide
Known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, General Santos City plays home to numerous tourist destinations that attract a great number of travelers in the country. To accommodate travelers who want to take a look at the attractive sites in the province, General Santos City, Philippines, features hotels, lodges and inns, where people can have a comfortable and relaxing stay. In addition, the city also offers restaurants that serve sumptuous and mouth-watering dishes to everyone. Hence, to avoid worry-free travels to the place, it is best that people refer to General Santos travel guides for the best places to see in the city.
Tourist Attractions
One of the special sections of General Santos travel guides is the tourist destination section. In this section, people can have ideas about the famous and beautiful tourist spots in General Santos City, Philippines. For travelers who have interest in visiting natural attractions in the place, they can always take a look at Kalaja Karst Area, which features beautiful waterfalls and an attractive cave. Other attractions to see in General Santos City, Philippines, are Lake Sebu and Lake Maughan, which are known for their serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Restaurants
For the comfort of all the travelers in General Santos City, Philippines, most General Santos travel guides provide a section on restaurants or dining places in the area. Individuals who like to visit restaurants that serve authentic Filipino dishes can always go to Sud-an, Kanto, and Jam’s Restaurant. However, for people who prefer to dine in some fast foods in the city, they can refer to General Santos travel guides to know the exact locations of Jollibee, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and McDonald’s. Additionally, for those who prefer to eat light meals like pastries, pastas, and pizzas, the city also features Pizza Hut and Red Ribbon.
Hotels
Regarding accommodations, travelers have nothing to worry for General Santos travel guides provide information on the amenities, as well as accommodation rates of hotels, lodges, and inns at General Santos City, Philippines. For individuals who like to have a luxurious and comfortable stay in the place, they can always make advance reservations in three-star and four-star hotels like Family Country Hotel, Phela Grande Hotel, and Matutum Hotel. Meanwhile, for people who prefer to stay in hospitality service providers that offer affordable rates, they can always take a look at lodges in General Santos City, Philippines, like Maharlika Lodge, Shanghai Lodge, and Clara’s Lodge. Hence, with the use of General Santos travel guides, people can surely have a remarkable and enjoyable stay in the wonderful city of General Santos, Philippines.
Zamboanga Destination Guides
Overview
A tour of the southern part of the Philippines can hardly be said to be complete without a visit to Zamboanga City and dropping by several highly rated Zamboanga destinations. Zamboanga is known for its many orchid gardens and so many different varieties of flowers and this is probably why some theorize that the name Zamboanga is derived from a Malay word meaning a haven of flowers.
Cawa Cawa Boulevard
Strictly speaking, Cawa Cawa Boulevard is no longer the name that this market goes by. However despite the fact that it has been several years since it was renamed to Justice R.T. Lim Boulevard, this Zamboanga destination is still called and is more commonly known as Cawa Cawa Boulevard. One might wonder what the hype is about over a market but once one sees what is in Cawa Cawa Boulevard, one will appreciate this place. Dirt cheap shopping can be done here and there are several food stalls to choose from in case one gets hungry. It looks somewhat like Roxas Boulevard in Manila in that one can stroll by the seashore but wait for the sun to set and Cawa Cawa Boulevard comes to life. There are strips of bars here that one can grab a quick drink at, go dancing or karaoke.
Cawa Cawa Boulevard is also a favorite among residents and this was designed for those who love walking by the beach but hate the feel of sand in between their toes. One can think of this Zamboanga destination as a kilometer stretch of everything one might need from food to souvenir items to a leisurely walk.
Barter Trade Market
Another good Zamboanga destination is the Barter Trade Market which, historically speaking was established in an attempt to control the influx of goods from neighboring countries that could not be taxed. The reason for such need to regulate these items is that the government is unable to generate revenue off these and these smuggled goods had a detrimental effect on the market. The Barter Trade Market was built right on the wharf but this Zamboanga destination was totally consumed by fire in 1979. When the Barter Trade Market was rebuilt, it flourished and the local government went into a free trade arrangement with companies who wanted to bring goods in. Among the things to buy at this Zamboanga destination are motorbikes, bicycles, mechanical toys, electronic goods, hand made souvenir items and canned goods.
The Barter Trade Market is another good place for shopping although it is usually crowded during payday weekends. This Zamboanga destination is a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
Davao Restaurants
Davao City is the pride of the south. It boasts of a culture that is truly Filipino yet very interesting for any kind of exploring tourist. Among the many attractions in this side of the Philippines is the array of Davao restaurants that are out to impress every single time. No matter what you crave for, you will surely find it by looking through Davao restaurants listing.
Luz Kinilaw – This one is underrated among Davao restaurants. It serves tuna at its finest against a no frills, cozy ambience that will leave you lost for words yet it does not come out too often in Davao restaurants reviews. Tuna, either grilled or kinilaw (a local cooking method that is equivalent to the Japanese’s sashimi), should not be missed. [Salmonan, Quezon Boulevard; (6382) 226-4612]
Coco’s Grill – Great-tasting family meals is what Coco’s Grill serves best. As a family business, it understands the needs and requirements of diners with adults and kids combined. That’s why they concocted dishes that please young and young-at-hearts with every bite. Salads, pizzas, and pastas mostly compose a usual dining experience at this cozy eating hub. [F. Torres Street, Davao City]
Marco Polo – Chinese cuisine has always been a favorite. In this plush food hub, you get Chinese dishes at their finest. Crispy noodles, almond jelly, crab fuyong, and fried chicken with special Hoisen sauce are must-tries. [CM Recto St., Davao City; (6382) 221 0888]
Jack’s Ridge – If you want your food to come with lots of bonuses, this restaurant is a pretty good choice. A dining experience here is composed of reasonably priced familiar dishes plus a spectacular view on top of the hill. At night, your eyes will dazzle with the city lights. It’s a nice place to have get-togethers because the cozy ambience allows for some good talks coupled with tasty and delicious food. [Shrine Hills, Davao City; (6382) 297-8830]
Cafe Mediterranean – Fusion restaurant is pretty common nowadays. Then again, you do not always get the best of everything in all of them. If there’s one Davao restaurant that could give you the thrill of fusion cuisine, it’s Café Mediterranean. Asian, Mediterranean, French, Italian, and Spanish cuisine are put together for an exciting mix in the food menu. Lamb, chicken, seafood, and beef are cooked in every other fabulous way for mouthwatering food choices. The kebabs and gyros are must-tries. [G/F Chimes Mall, Governor Sales St. Davao City; (6382) 225 8997]
Zamboanga Hotel Guidea
Staying in the Spanish town of the Philippines is not always that easy, because you need to know a little bit about the city in order to find a great hotel. There are places big and small to stay in the little Spain of the Philippines, but none that has an international recognizable brand. Let us help you find a great hotel to stay with the Zamboanga Hotel Guide.
The first place in the Zamboanga Hotel Guide is located in the heart of the city and this hotel is one of the oldest places around. The Lantaka is not the up to date facility for young people but it still has the flair from the past which makes this place ideal for elderly travelers and families. This hotel has a pool area and of course a restaurant where you can munch your breakfast before exploring the city. This hotel has a gift shop and only costs an average of $50 per night.
If you came to the Philippines for their white beaches then the Zamboanga Hotel Guide presents you the Dakak Park Beach Resort. This hotel is a beachfront establishment where you can easily go to and fro the private beach to enjoy your daily activities. The food is great and healthy and you can relax in their pools or spa. For an average of $80 per night, this beachfront beauty seems a tad too costly, but you will surely find your reasons to stay in the little Spain of the Philippines.
The Zamboanga Hotel Guide takes you now to the Garden Orchid Hotel which is one of the most popular in this city. The Garden Orchid Hotel has everything one could want in a hotel in the Philippines and we are not exaggerating. You will find a ballroom, function rooms, convention centers, laundry services, car rentals, money changer, an executive clubhouse, a gym, a sauna, a tennis court, beauty salons and barber shops, a convenience store, a souvenir shop, a travel agency, a restaurant, and a pool area. Now you know we didn’t exaggerate. The average room rate per night ranges around $60.
The last hotel on our Zamboanga Hotel Guide is the Grand Astoria Hotel. There are many other Astoria hotels scattered throughout the Philippines but this one promises very spacious rooms and they do not disappoint. The food is good, but can also be avoided yet the rooms are a great investment. The Astoria also has a fitness gym and it is in walking distance of all the major malls. The average cost for a single room is around $80.
Enjoy your Zamboanga Hotel Guide further and maybe you will find so many more places to stay in the little Spain of the Philippines.
Butuan Restaurants
Overview
Exotic dishes are what one can expect when dining at a Butuan restaurant but for those who want to eat International favorites, there are establishments that serve these as well. Butuan restaurants are known to serve great tasting meals and provide warm service to their diners so regardless of which restaurant one chooses to dine at, one can be sure that one will be getting a good deal.
Weegols Grillhaus
Grilled fish, chicken, beef and pork are among the dishes served at the Weegols Grillhaus located on Montilla Boulevard. Butuan is especially proud of the Weegols Grillhaus because of the excellent Filipino grilled specialties served here and they have all local condiments that one could possibly ask for. This Butuan restaurant goes about everything the native way and even serves dishes on banana leaves for that truly authentic Filipino feel. When dining at Weegols Grillhaus, make sure to try their grilled chicken barbecue and one can ask the staff to make this a little spicy for that added flavor. This Butuan restaurant also has fried squid rings called Calamari and fish cooked in vinegar called Kinilaw. The Weegols Grillhaus is open air so one can dine under the stars with that special someone. Prices at the Weegols Grillhaus range from US$ 10 to US$15 and this is incredibly affordable.
Tita’s Café
For those who are constantly on the move and want good food in a snap, a good Butuan restaurant to go to would be Tita’s Café which is found on P. Burgos Street. Food served at Tita’s Café are pre-prepared so cooking time is cut in half. What’s good about this Butuan restaurant is that despite the many similarities it has with a fast food joint, the dishes served here don’t lose that home cooked taste and it’s both nutritious and delicious. Tita’s Café also serves local desserts such as sweet sticky rice cakes. For those who are looking for good tasting coffee, one can find it here at Tita’s Café where they brew their own Butuan made coffee beans. Snacks served at Tita’s Café are also good and topping the list are Siomai and Siopao.
Narra Restaurant
Named after a local tree known for its fine wood, the Narra restaurant is another favorite among locals and visitors. Local dishes are the specialty of Narra restaurant but they also serve a couple of Chinese dishes. Diners of this Butuan restaurant usually arrive here in groups because of the rates given to them so one can expect to always have more than a handful of diners no matter what time of day.
