Going to Davao

There are two ways to go to Davao City: through Singapore or Manila. If you choose Singapore then you need to take Silk Air. If you choose the latter then you can go to Davao City by land, by water and by air.

Land
Yes, I am serious. You can drive any vehicle through the Roll-on Roll-off System of the national government. The idea is that your vehicle will roll on to a ship that will ferry you from one port to another where you will roll off. It is the most expensive but the most adventure-filled route. I can't give the costing because of the fluctuating fuel prices. But in October 2007 we estimated that we will be spending PhP12,000 to feed our diesel-powered Starex van. Then you need to add the daily living allowance for three days. But just think that you are able to tour at least five provinces this way.

Sea
If you are paranoid about the Sulpicio Lines Tragedy then try the reliable Aboitiz Group. The trip will cost you 36 hours and around PhP1500 for some comfort. I think this is the most scenic and relaxing route. Maybe I will take this route going home to Manila after my contract in Davao finishes.

Air
There are more than 25 flights in and out of Davao City through Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Asian Spirit. Flights are usually 1.5 -2 hours long depending on the size of the plane. I would recommend that you take Philippine Airlines' PALakbayan deals because you can taste the most luxurious stay at Marco Polo Hotel for three days for less than PhP10,000 including airfare and breakfast and airport transfers.

Next: Where to stay while looking for something permanent

Why move to Davao City?

I first landed on Davao City soil in January 2004. Everything about the city felt right. That feeling led me to declare that I am going to live in Davao City soon. I kept on traveling back and forth from Manila to Davao for three years because of work. My longest stay was two weeks, my shortest was 11 hours. Three years later I fulfilled my promise. I moved to Davao City in March 2007.

This blog was born when I noticed that everyone was writing about how much they love the city. They explained how great it is to live here but nobody really told anybody how to move here. My suspicions were confirmed when I spoke with an expat about their difficulty in starting. No website told them how to get where. All websites just told them to go. So it with great hope that this blog can address that great void.