ThOuGhTs, iDeAs, oPiNiOnS, cHaTtEr

Davao: Day Two

Manong Marshal saved the day. He was the driver of the multi-cab that took us from our cottage to the Maranao Restaurant the previous night. He learned that we wanted to take a city tour and the taxi driver we originally made arrangements to take us is not responding in our SMS nor in our calls. He has a cousin, Mang Boy, who drives a van we can rent to take us around Davao City. A city tour would cost us PhP1,500.00. If we wanted to go to the Philippine Eagle Center, we would shell out an additional P1,000.00.

But first, before taking the 10:00AM ride to Davao Marina, we would first go to the Malipano Island where the resthouse of the Pearl Farm's owners are situated (the Floirendos own the whole Malipano Island). There are also cottages, called Villas, where one can stay.

Have to be early as there are lots of activity in store for us today. Waking up to the soft sun's rays that trickles through the glass door promises that this would be a great day. And boy, what a view (from my bed)!

Villa Beach

Malipano Villa door

Malipano Villa sala

Manong Marshal was the one who picked us up at our cottage to bring us to the Parola Wharf where we can take a boat ride to Malipano Island. But before proceeding to the Parola, we detoured to the Hilltop to get a view of Davao from the resort. On the way, he called the security at the Parola that there would be passengers taking the boat to Malipano Island.

It is just a few minutes ride to Malipano Island. Once there, we were directed to the Villa Beach. We saw a resort staff who we started to "interrogate" on what we can see on the island, whether Dawn Zulueta was in the island, etc. What we forgot to ask is whether Amy Perez is in the island since Tony Boy is. (Tsika!) On our own, we looked at every nook and cranny of the island. When given a chance, like an open door, we sneaked in to see what's inside a Villa. Even got pictures as proof! c",)

Parola Bar

Back to Samal Island, we spent some time at the Parola to have pictures taken at the Parola Bar. Afterwhich, went to the Maranao Restaurant to eat our buffet breakfast in preparation of the city tour.

Mandaya Weaving Center

Butik

After breakfast, visited the resort's weaving center and its boutique (aptly named Butik). Then, went back to our cottage to make a "deposit" (LOL). Thirty minutes before the boat's departure, we were back again at the Parola for the 10:00AM schedule.

At the Davao Marina, Mang Boy is already waiting for us. We have briefed him on what we planned to do and schedule we have to observe as not to miss the 4:00PM boat ride back to Pearl Farm.

First stop is Market Basket for the Nenita's suha. Alas! The suha is no longer available. Delivery is only on weekdays every 4:00PM.

Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague

We were just in time for the Mass at the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague. Actually, we were even on time for the novena before the Mass. The Mass is in English until... we reached the sermon. The priest switched to the local dialect and my friends and I just have to smile and take it in... hehe!

Davao from view deck

We were supposed to go to Jack's Ridge for our lunch and to have a view of Davao while doing so. Since our intention is only to have a good view of Davao City, Mang Boy suggested to do it in the view deck, go to a drive-thru for our food and eat lunch on the way to the Philippine Eagle Center. Smarts!

And we did just that.

Eagle at the Philippine Eagle Center

The Philippine Eagle Center is inside the Malagos Garden Park. Aside from the noted Philippine Eagles, named Pag-asa, Pangarap, Bayani, Marikit, Magiting and Jean(?), there are other type of birds, animals (crocodile, monkey, baboyramo) and various plants.

Our next stop should have been at Puentespina Orchids to view the plant and orchid display. But due to time constraints, we decided to proceed to Aldevinco Shopping Center instead. Here, we were able to buy some pasalubong. By the way, the best-tasting durian and mangosteen candies, according the locals, is Lola Abon's.

And for a photofinish, we were back to Davao Marina five minutes before the 4:00PM boat departure.

To remove the day's stress, we again took a dip at the pool. This time, it's at the Maranao Swimming Pool, so we can experience the infinity pool. The water is maligamgam and would have loved not to leave the pool.

The plan, actually, is to go to the beach first, but the pool was inviting. By the time we decided to try the beach, it is already too dark.

During dinner, we were "rubbing elbows" again with Tony Boy Floirendo. c",)

---

BTW, a friend SMSed me that another nice place to visit in Davao is the Eden Nature Park. Too bad it is only a three-day vacation for us.

posted by ~GFA~ @ 6/04/2006 10:53:00 PM