This sprawling city, the culinary, cultural, economic and commercial capital of the south is, for better or worse, becoming more like Manila. More traffic, more malls, more multinationals, more subdivisions hidden behind security gates. While Davao continues to grow, especially south towards Toril, much of the land outside the city has been turned over to massive plantations growing export quantities of pineapples, bananas and citrus.
There are a couple of cheap hotels worth taking a look at before finalizing your reservation in Davao. Hof Gorei Resort features traditional bungalow accommodations. It has an outdoor pool surrounded by tropical gardens, with panoramic views of the Davao Gulf and Mount Apo. All rooms at the Hof Gorei Resort are air-conditioned and have a balcony or terrace, TV, minibar and private bathroom. Tea/coffee-making facilities are also provided. Park Inn Davao by Radisson is next to the SMX Convention Center and the SM Lanang Premier Mall. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a business center. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the entire property and parking is provided at no charge. All rooms have carpeted floors, wardrobe, a personal safe and a flat-screen satellite/cable TV. A fridge, minibar and tea/coffee making facilities are also included. Private bathrooms include a hairdryer, shower and free toiletries.
Lanikai Davao is a four star hotel located 20 minutes away from the city of Davao. It features a restaurant and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has an outdoor pool and views of the sea, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. Free private parking is available on site. Some units have a sitting area where you can relax. Certain rooms include views of the pool or garden. The rooms include a private bathroom equipped with a shower. Leticia by the Sea is a beachfront property located on Samal's Talicud Island. Surrounded by nature, it offers water sports equipment and massage services. Facilities include a souvenir shop and meeting rooms. Each villa is equipped with a fan, cable TV, and a DVD player. Tea/coffee making facilities are also provided. The private bathrooms have either a bathtub or shower.
If you prefer peace and quiet than the standard chain hotels, the boutique hotel is the right choice for you. The below are the top two independent but homelike Davao hotels. Eva's Hotel Davao has a sun terrace and views of the mountains, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar. Free private parking is available on site. Certain rooms feature a private bathroom with a spa tub, and others have bathrobes and slippers. Certain units include a sitting area where you can relax. You will find a kettle in the room. Superior rooms have a sauna or a hot tub. A flat-screen TV is featured. Hotel Seda Davao features a fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the outdoor pool. It also offers complimentary Wi-Fi access. The property is a 20-minute drive from the Aldevinco Shopping Center and Davao International Airport. It is an hour from the port where guests can take a boat to Samal Island's beaches and diving spots.
Below are reviews of the city of Davao, Philippines from an actual visitor's perspective.
The food is great! The people are warm.