The treasures of Davao City

Now, Davao is a must-see for tourists who

have shifted their interest from the beaten

track.

Already in place are no-frills tourism

facilities.

Mary Ann M. Montemayor, SKAL national

president said "Davao has gone a long

way, a far cry from the web of dusty roads

and quaint corners." Getting to and going around the city is hassle-free as

roads are smooth. Exotic and cozy places exude a homespun charm.

Going to this Mindanao City is both a nature and gastronomic trip,

Montemayor said in endorsing the city to travelers.

Here are the city' prides:

The Marco Polo Hotel, the city's first

five-star hotel and tallest in Mindanao.

It caters to leisure and business

markets. Its Marco Polo Cafi

Restaurant whips up various

continental and exotic Filipino

concoctions in smorgasbord servings.

Homey Villa Margarita Hotel, which boasts of a crop of congenial staff, is one

of your choices of residence away from home.

Gazing at the Eden Nature Park - a magnificent panorama - is an enriching

experience. The best time to visit it is at sunrise.

Meanwhile, Malagos Garden resort is an enclosed 12-hectare nature theme

park with first- class resort amenities. The park showcases a rare collection of

indigenous Philippine flora and fauna.

Another lodging facility is the Hotel Galleria. It has 43 well-appointed

guestrooms and five suites.

For golfers, there's the Apo Golf course, which looks like an emerald carpet

from a distance, is a breathtaking sight to behold.

And for globetrotters, relax and unwind at Hill Top Restaurant. It offers tents for

campers (with air-conditioning) and a swimming pool. How do you like the idea

of feasting on tuna while marveling at majestic Mt. Apo?

Lunch at the Pescadero Restaurant, with its local and international buffet. It

was the best way to try a large buffet.

Of course one should not miss the Pearl Farm, which has been the jewel in

the province's crown. Located on Samal island, the beach resort offers

world-class facilities.

Then there is the Philippine Eagle Center, an educational mini-zoo of sorts,

bred endangered national bird.

But the focus of this trip was the lovely assignment to try out all the Marco

Polo outlets. And of course, stay in one of the rooms, with the 21st floor

picture window opening up all of Davao including, on clear days, Mt. Apo. And

yet I could have been happy just with the spray of waling-waling in my

bathroom. Ritzy life, indeed.