Lying at the southeastern corner of the Philippines, Davao City is the largest city in the world (in square feet). It is also considered to be the Orchid Capital of the Philippines. It is also famous for fruits and as a take-off point for climbing Mt. Apo, the Philippines' highest mountain and habitat of the monkey-eating Philippine eagle. It has a mild pleasant climate all year round and is shielded from typhoons. Its setting on Davao Gulf and the fertility of the land have made Davao the agricultural and industrial center in the South. Davao is also noted for ethnic groups that still follow their traditions as can be seen from their arts and crafts.

If you are interested to learn more or explore more about Davao City, here are some sites to check out:

1. Malagos Garden Resort - #tobeonewithnature and home of the famed Malagos Chocolate of Davao City.

2. Philippine Eagle Center - Conservation center for the critically

endangered monkey-eating eagle of the Philippines.

3. Museo Dabawenyo

Malls in the Philippines and why they are loved. Even though a small country, the Philippines have many malls. Culturally malls are all-in-one destinations that provide more than shopping. They are also centers for dining and entertainment, as well as accessing utility and government services. They are the focal social outlet for most locals and the best way to cool off from the heat of the tropics. Davao City has a few.

Here are some of the malls you most likely will visit while in Davao.

1. Abreeza Mall

2. SM Lanang

3. NCCC Buhangin

4. SM City Ecoland

5. Gaisano Mall

Most of everything you will need for amenities and groceries you can find in the malls. Options where to eat are also abundant in malls. We are sure you will find your self in one of the malls while in Davao.

1. Dencias - This is an old favorite. Chinese influenced menu.

You have to try : Fresh Lumpia, Tok'wat baboy (tofu and pork), Arroz Caldo, and Pancit (don't forget to get whole loaf to pair with pancit).

2. For the Sisig (sizzling pork) fans - stop by and grab lunch at Casa Leticia’s Sagay Ilonggo Restaurant. Their sisig is one of the best you will ever try. Their Batchoy Soup is also popular.

3. De Bonte Ko - Another old favorite. Find yourself in a Dutch restaurant in Davao City. I have not ordered anything I did not enjoy in from here.

4. Bondi & Bourke - Australian inspired steakhouse. A beautiful restaurant perfect for a fancy night out.

5. Jack's Ridge Resort - Come for the view . This restaurant commands a breathtaking view of Davao City while holding a rich historic past. They serve local cuisine and offers live music in their bar and grill section. They also have coffee shop if you need a pick me up.

Here are a few other restaurant recommendations while in Davao City:

- Luk Foo Palace at Acacia Hotel Davao (Chinese)

- Choobi Choobi - (Filipino)

- MarinaTuna Sasa location (Filipino and Seafood) try Crispy Tuna tail, grilled Tuna jaw, and Tuna belly

- The Vegan Dinosaur - For those looking for a vegan menu

- Soul Kitchen - Another vegan option and pressed juices

Since your in here might as well try some fruits and dishes you will may never see outside of the Philippines.

1. Durian - Named the world's smelliest fruit. This local favorite has been crowned the king of fruits. For us locals we love the smell and the taste. It has many types and is either loved or hated and nothing in between. It is eaten on its own or with soda. Try and see which group you fall under.

2. Bananacue - Skewered plantains cooked in brown sugar. If that didn't get your attention I don't know what will.

3. Ginanggang - Grilled skewered bananas brushed with margarine and sprinkled with sugar. Need I say more?

4. Pinaypay - Fried banana fritters. They get their name from looking like handheld fans called paypay.

5. Halo-Halo - Roughly translated as mix mix. Filipino version of bingsu. Loaded with fruits, sweet beans, flan, and ice cream. A favorite of the groom.

6. Taho - Made of fresh soft/silken tofu, arnibal, and sago pearl. All time favorite street food. Best serve from a walking peddler. Try if you want your mind blown.

(From left to right)