Davao Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Globe, Smart, and DITO present good coverage. Purchase SIM cards at the airport, malls, or convenience stores.

SIM Card Essentials

Passport: Needed for SIM registration.
Affordable prepaid data packages.
Staff at kiosks assist with registration.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Wi-Fi is free and widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and malls. Mobile data is generally reliable in urban areas.

Connectivity Options

Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi for constant access.
Hotel and public Wi-Fi speeds vary.
Mobile data coverage can be spotty in remote areas.

Postal Services

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) serves as the main postal service. International shipping options are also present.

Sending Mail & Packages

PhilPost branches in Davao City.
DHL, FedEx available for international shipping.
Sending postcards is simple.

Language Barriers & Translation

Cebuano (Bisaya) is the main language. English is widely understood in urban areas. Translation apps are handy.

Language Support

Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Google Translate app (offline for Cebuano/Tagalog) for quick translations.
Learning basic phrases shows local respect.

Important Phrases with Pronunciation Guides

Greetings & Basics

Hello: "Kumusta?" (koh-MOOS-tah)
Thank you: "Salamat" (sah-LAH-mat)
Please: "Palihug" (pah-LEE-hoog)
Excuse me / Sorry: "Pasensya na" (pah-SEN-shah nah)

Common Needs

Yes: "Oo" (oh-OH)
No: "Dili" (dee-LEE)
How much?: "Tagpila?" (tag-PEE-lah)
Water: "Tubig" (TOO-big)

Local Language Tip

Practice these phrases. Even a small effort to speak the local language garners appreciation.

Business Hours and Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday schedules in Davao City.

Shopping Malls

Open 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM daily, weekends included.

Banks

Typically 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday. ATMs operate 24/7.

Restaurants

Most 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Some open earlier, some bars close later.

Religious & Public Holidays

Federal holidays mean many businesses close or have limited hours. Plan ahead for these closures.

Holidays

Holy Week: Major religious observance.
Christmas and New Year's: Widespread closures.
May Day (in many countries): May 1STst, national holiday.

Local Davao Holidays

Davao City celebrates its own holidays. Tourism-related businesses generally stay open or extend hours.

Davao's Celebrations

Araw ng Dabaw (March): City's founding anniversary.
Kadayawan Festival (August): Major cultural event.
Check specific dates because they change slightly.

Seasonal Closures & Limited Schedules

General Availability

No widespread seasonal closures.
Smaller establishments may limit hours during major holidays.
Confirm specific hours for attractions or restaurants.

Planning Considerations

Airport services typically maintain regular hours.
Essential services remain accessible.
Transportation services may be busier or less frequent.

Timing Your Visit

For smooth operations, plan your activities around local business schedules and public holidays.

Etiquette and Cultural Norms

Respect local customs and traditions for a beneficial travel experience.

Greeting Customs

Filipinos value respect, especially for elders. Politeness goes a long way.

Greetings & Politeness

"Mano po": Gesture of respect for elders.
Nods, smiles, and "Kumusta?" for casual greetings.
Using "po" and "opo" (Tagalog) shows politeness.

Appropriate Attire

Comfortable clothing is fine for most public areas. Modest attire is important for religious sites.

Dress Code Guide

General: Casual, comfortable.
Religious Sites: Shoulders and knees covered.
Formal Events/Dining: Smart casual.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Guests are often served first. Offering food to others is customary. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

Mealtime Customs

Offer food to others before serving yourself.
How much to tip for good service is welcome.
Eating with hands in casual settings is normal.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

A polite request works well before taking photos of people. Respect any posted rules for taking pictures.

Photo Taking Tips

Ask: "Pwede po kumuha ng litrato?" (May I take a photo?)
Respect "No Photography" signs.
Be discreet in religious sites or during ceremonies.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

What to Avoid

Public Displays of Affection: Avoid overt displays.
Criticism: Do not openly criticize local customs or government.
Sensitive Topics: Avoid political or religious discussions unless invited.

Gestures to Note

Pointing with a finger: Considered rude, use pursed lips instead.
Gender: Traditional gender roles are common.
LGBTQ+: Public displays of same-sex affection may draw stares.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+ Information

Social Norms

Predominantly Catholic country, conservative values.
Traditional gender roles are often present.
No specific legal protections against LGBTQ+ discrimination.

Travel Advice

LGBTQ+ individuals are generally tolerated in urban areas.
Exercise discretion and respect local sensibilities.
Research specific venues or events for inclusivity.

Cultivating Positive Interactions

A polite and respectful approach opens doors to warm local hospitality.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges or special needs should note limited accessibility infrastructure.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Generally basic facilities. Sidewalks can be uneven, narrow, and crowded. Ramps are rare outside modern buildings.

Navigating the City

Many older establishments lack accessibility features.
Public transport (jeepneys, tricycles) is not accessible.
Uneven terrain common in some areas.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

Newer facilities often provide better access. Private transport is the most reliable option for mobility.

Finding Accessible Options

Modern malls (Abreeza, SM Lanang) offer elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms.
Some luxury hotels offer accessible designs.
Private car services (Grab or customized tours) are best.

Services for Visual or Hearing Impairments

Specific services are limited. English-speaking guides can assist with communication and navigation.

Support for Special Needs

Bring personal aids or support systems.
Communicate needs clearly to guides or staff.
Availability of braille or audio guides is minimal.

Resources & Organizations

No prominent dedicated tourist accessibility resources. Face-to-face with service providers is advisable.

Where to Find Information

Contact hotels and tour operators directly with specific needs.
Local disability organizations might offer insights.
Organize and confirm accessibility features in advance.

Planning Accessible Travel

Communicate your needs clearly when booking accommodations, tours, plus getting from a to b. Confirmation of accessibility features is always a good practice.

Davao Travel Tips