Last October, ten Australian travel managers had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse offerings of Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal. Organized by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) – Sydney Office, this exploratory trip aimed to promote the Philippines’ unique charm to Australian tourists, paving the way for a new wave of tourism from Australia to the Davao region.
Photos courtesy of PDOT-Sydney and Mr. Olan Emboscado.
The Journey
The travel managers, hailing from various regions across Australia, including Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia, were treated to an unforgettable three-day journey from October 17 to 19. This visit followed a recent business mission by DOT Region XI to Australia, aimed at expanding Davao’s reach within the Australian market. The group’s itinerary included not only the attractions of Davao but also stops in Cebu, Siargao, and Manila, highlighting the Philippines’ diverse travel destinations.
Davao City: The Heart of Mindanao
Davao City, often referred to as the “Crown Jewel of Mindanao,” is renowned for its blend of urban vibrance and natural beauty. Here are some of the standout spots the Australian travel managers experienced:
- Eden Nature Park and Resort
A lush mountain resort offering an escape from the bustling city, Eden Nature Park is known for its cool climate, verdant landscapes, and thrilling activities such as zip-lining and horseback riding. The park gave the Australian guests a taste of Mindanao’s rich biodiversity and scenic mountain views. - Philippine Eagle Center
Home to the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, this conservation center allowed the guests to observe these majestic birds up close. The experience highlighted the Philippines’ commitment to wildlife preservation and offered an educational insight into the conservation efforts for one of the world’s rarest raptors. - People’s Park
In the heart of Davao City, People’s Park is an urban oasis filled with art installations, indigenous sculptures, and sprawling gardens. The park showcases the region’s diverse culture, with sculptures and artworks celebrating the heritage of Mindanao’s various ethnic groups. - Roxas Night Market
A visit to Davao wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the vibrant Roxas Night Market. The travel managers indulged in an array of local street food, including Davao’s famous durian and marang fruits, capturing the essence of Filipino street food culture.
Island Garden City of Samal: An Island Paradise
Just a short boat ride from Davao City lies the Island Garden City of Samal, a tropical paradise known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and laid-back charm. Highlights of the Samal experience included:
- Pearl Farm Beach Resort
Famous for its luxurious accommodations and stunning beachfront, Pearl Farm Beach Resort offered the travel managers an idyllic retreat. The resort embodies Samal’s tranquil island vibe and is known for its picturesque stilted cottages overlooking the sea. - Monfort Bat Sanctuary
Housing the world’s largest colony of Geoffroy’s Rousette Fruit Bats, the Monfort Bat Sanctuary was a unique wildlife experience for the guests. The sanctuary promotes sustainable tourism and wildlife preservation, providing insight into Samal’s ecological treasures. - Hagimit Falls
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Hagimit Falls offered a refreshing break with its cascading waterfalls and natural pools. It provided the perfect setting for swimming and taking in the serenity of Samal’s natural landscape. - Talicud Island’s Coral Garden
Known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem, Talicud Island offered the Australians a chance to snorkel and explore coral reefs teeming with marine life. The Coral Garden is a popular destination for divers, thanks to its colorful reefs and clear waters.
A Welcoming Market for Australian Travelers
The initiative reflects the DOT’s commitment to enhancing its tourism connections with Australia, encouraging more Australians to explore the lesser-known gems of the Philippines. As Davao Region opens its doors wider to international markets, its pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences promise to enchant future visitors.
The Australian travel managers departed with an enriched perspective on the Philippines and Davao Region’s tourism potential. Their journey underscored the region’s allure, setting the stage for Davao to become a new destination of choice for Australian travelers seeking fresh and authentic experiences in Asia.
