Ang Dabawenyo

Typically called “zip line”, the Sky Rider is one helluva ride! In Mindanao, there are three of these things: here in Davao at the Eden Nature Park, the one in Cagayan de Oro City, and the longest in the country, at Kapatagan. I’m gonna try all of them as soon as I can!

Here’s a video of me when I tried the Sky Rider. It’s at Eden Fields, right across the road from Eden Nature Park. This was during the Davao Food Appreciation Tour. Thanks to Andrew for taking this video! Read more »

Summer is nearly upon us. As the days start to lengthen, thoughts of beach getaways and mountain picnics become more frequent in our minds, don’t they? Thankfully, both activities are within reach if you’re in Davao.

The Davao bloggers are planning a Summer 2008 gimmick, and it’ll be open to all bloggers from all over. This event will be a resort tour, which will showcase the various beach resorts and other destinations on Samal Island. The island — officially known as the Island Garden City of Samal (or “IGACOS”) — is politically separate from Davao City, but is part of the larger Davao Region. Besides, the island is so accessible from Davao City that most Dabawenyos probably feel that it’s part of their domain. Read more »

Samal island is not part of Davao City, but is most accessible from here. It’s actually a chartered city now, and is officially called the Island Garden City of Samal. The past few years have seen a steady increase in the number of beach resorts on the island, the newest of which is Hof Gorei Beach Resort. The name is pronounced hoff go-rye; “hof” is German for “farm”. The resort is owned by an Austrian couple, Mr. & Mrs. Kröll, but run by the Filipino-turned-Austrian wife, Madame April.

Photos courtesy of Alex D.

Travel agent par excellence Alex, BisayaBloggers.com aggregator site’s Ayeza and I went to Hof Gorei last Sunday (26 August). We were supposed to stay only for the day for a quick look-see, but the very gracious Mme. April had different ideas for us. Good thing we let her convince us to stay overnight. And good thing Monday was a holiday! Read more »

After a couple of false starts since after February, I think I can safely say it’s officially summer now. Today, Easter Sunday, was a lot hotter than usual, although it surprised me to see that we had a high of only 35°C this noon. I don’t know about you guys, but I had 4 showers today!

Read more »

Technically, Samal isn’t Davao… but I did say this blog is to be about the city and its environs, didn’t I?   So here’s something I’ve written about a new resort on Samal. It’s called BaliBali Beach Resort, and it’s a cute, cozy getaway.

Please click on this link to read about the resort.