Ang Dabawenyo

I must admit, one low-cost activity I enjoy with friends is going to a KTV joint for some drinks and unabashed, soul-satisfying crooning to 80s tracks and pop music. One favorite place for this in Davao is K1 Family KTV.

This entertainment establishment, which has its roots in Cebu, has a coffee shop, and a number of private rooms for small and medium-sized groups. Each room is equipped with karaoke machines that load your chosen music via remote control. I just wish they had more updated tracks, though.

The main branch of K1, on F. Torres St., also has a spa. The massage service is good, but I don’t know why they call themselves a spa, because they don’t even have a sauna. Don’t count on getting a hot shower either, because the bathing facilities are at bare minimum, if you get my drift. Still, I would recommend their massage.

They have another branch on Quimpo Boulevard, Juna Subdivision, Matina, across the street from the Central Convenience Store there. No karaoke there, though — just the massage and coffee shop.

Both coffee shops have free Wifi. Food is decent and so is the coffee (but they could do better). I like the one in Matina — it’s quieter, although it’s a lot smaller.

The main branch is in one of the city’s busiest entertainment centers, so it can get rowdy over there. But if that’s your trip, go!