Davao Region Philippines Travel Guide
Globe, Smart, and DITO present good coverage. Purchase SIM cards at the airport, malls, or convenience stores.
Wi-Fi is free and widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and malls. Mobile data is generally reliable in urban areas.
The Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) serves as the main postal service. International shipping options are also present.
Cebuano (Bisaya) is the main language. English is widely understood in urban areas. Translation apps are handy.
Practice these phrases. Even a small effort to speak the language of the area garners appreciation.
Understand usual business hours and holiday schedules in Davao City.
Open 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM daily, weekends included.
Typically 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday. ATMs operate 24/7.
Most 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Some open earlier, some bars close later.
National holidays mean lots of companies close or have limited hours. Plan ahead for these closures.
Davao City celebrates its own holidays. Tourism-related businesses generally stay open or extend hours.
For smooth operations, plan your activities in the vicinity of local business schedules and public holidays.
Be respectful of customs for a beneficial travel experience.
Filipinos value respect, especially for elders. Politeness goes a long way.
Comfortable clothing is fine for most public areas. Modest attire is vital for religious sites.
Guests are often served first. Offering food to others is customary. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
A polite request works well before taking photos of people. Respect any posted rules for taking pictures.
A polite and respectful approach creates access to warm local hospitality.
Travelers with mobility challenges or accessibility needs should note limited accessibility infrastructure.
Generally basic facilities. The sidewalks might not be level, narrow, and crowded. Ramps are rare outside modern buildings.
Newer facilities often provide better access. Private transport is the most reliable option for mobility.
Specific limited services are available. English-speaking guides can assist with communication and navigation.
No prominent dedicated tourist accessibility resources. Face-to-face with service providers is advisable.
Communicate your needs clearly when booking accommodations, tours, plus getting from a to b. Confirmation of accessibility features is always a good practice.
