Davao (pronounced as da-vow) is the bustling regional center of southern Philippines. But, before you christen the city as the “Manila of the south”, we’ll have you know that it is miles away from the country’s capital — and we’re not talking about miles in literal terms (even though the two cities are 978 kilometres apart). Like Manila, Davao is a large, progressive city, but the town is also able to maintain a laid-back vibe because of just how close it is to nature. Not only does it have the majestic Mount Apo as its backdrop, but a short drive can bring you to several white sand beaches and nature parks.
But before you reach Davao, your experience usually starts thousands of feet up on the flight there. From excitement to impatience, here are some thoughts you’ll probably have while landing in Davao.
1. So near, yet so far.
2. I can’t believe this is going to be my first time in Davao.
3. Look at that view. Davao, you are so beautiful.
4. And so green.
5. And so near the beach.
6. Wait, did I bring a swimsuit?
7. I think I forgot to bring my swimsuit.
8. Note to self: Buy a swimsuit.
9. Also, buy sunblock.
10. Why am I so forgetful?
11. Is there a mall near our hotel?
12. I wish I could google that right now…
13. Well, this is the Philippines, I’m sure there’s a mall on every corner…
14. We can still use electronics, right?
15. Because I just need to take another airplane window shot…
16. And a cloud shot…
17. And a shot of my buddy sleeping…
18. And maybe a selfie.
19. What does Davao mean anyway?
20. I wonder how the city got its name…
21. I wish I could google that right now…
22. I think I may rely too much on Google.
23. I wonder if other people feel the same?
24. I wish I could Google it.
25. If I had Wi-Fi, I’d probably be Googling right now.
26. Does Davao International Airport have Wi-Fi?
27. I’m pretty sure it does.
28. Does the whole city have Wi-Fi?
29. Probably not.
30. I heard it’s one of the prettiest cities in the Philippines, though.
31. And one of the cleanest.
32. I heard the city has banned smoking, too.
33. Thank goodness, I quit a long time ago.
34. Not bad. I don’t mind living in a pretty, clean and smoke-free city at all.
35. I guess, kudos to the mayor.
36. Isn’t he running for president?
37. What’s his name again?
38. Right, Rodrigo Duterte.
39. OMG. Is THAT Mount Apo?
40. Wow. Wow. Wow.
41. Where’s my camera?!
42. Okay, now I’m getting excited.
43. Seriously, are we there yet?
44. I need to stretch my legs.
45. Did they just say, “prepare for landing?”
46. HALLELUJAH!
47. Seat now in upright position.
48. Yes, I know, seat belts.
49. Breathe. Relax.
50. Almost there.
51. This doesn’t look like Manila at all.
52. Well, duh, it’s Davao.
53. I really should have peed before the seatbelt sign went on.
54. Seriously, bladder, not right now.
55. I can’t wait to go to the Philippine Eagle Center.
56. I need to see a Philippine Eagle in real life.
57. I also can’t wait to go to the Eden Nature Park, Crocodile Park and People’s Park.
58. Okay, maybe not so much the Crocodile Park.
59. Crocodiles scare me.
60. Davao sure has a lot of parks.
61. I heard most of the durian from the Philippines comes from Davao.
62. I’ve only tried durian once.
63. Nope, not a fan.
64. But, should I give it another chance here in Davao?
65. Okay, maybe I’ll try durian again in Davao.
66. When in Rome, right?
67. I have to get everyone durian candies, too, as souvenirs.
68. Why is everyone in my row asleep?
69. Am I the only one truly excited about arriving in Davao?
70. Should I wake up my seatmate?
71. Me thinks I should because we’re almost there.
72. TOUCHDOWN!
73. That’s one smooth landing, I have to say.
74. I can’t wait to get off this plane!
75. Can I take off my seatbelt now?
76. And turn on my phone, too.
77. Okay, fine, I’ll wait until we come to a complete stop.
78. Finally!
79. Now, where the hell is my passport?
80. Please tell me it’s not missing.
81. Oh. Dear. God.
82. THERE IT IS! Whew.
83. Yay! I’m so ready for my holiday.
Main image: istockphoto/PhotoTalk
