Southern Jaunt XVI - Durian

If Camiguin is known for its Lanzones, the Davao Region is considered as the Durian Kingdom of the Philippines. This is evident from the ubiquitous stalls selling durian, as well as the different concoctions derived from durian that has become famous throughout the years which include durian flavored candies, tarts, ice cream, and coffee.

Magsaysay Park

Further proof of how important the durian is to Davao is the sculpture “The Durian” that is located at the parking area of the Davao City International Airport. Kindly refer to Southern Jaunt I for further details.

just opposite the gate to Chinatown

We were really fortunate that it was durian season when we first visited Davao City two years ago. We really ate a lot of durian fresh from the farm of the Ais’ Family. Tita Nelia even taught us the difference between the Arancillo and the native varieties. Just like in Farmville, I also saw the Chanee variety being offered at Robinsons. Nonetheless I tell you, although the other varieties are also good, the native variety is the best and most delicious durian.

Durian and Pomelos

Hailed as the “King of Fruits”, the durian has that strong and distinctive odor which some find to be aromatic. On the other hand, others claim it to be offensive for being similar to the stench of rotten onions or sweaty socks. Hence the popular saying, “it smells like hell, but tastes like heaven”. Good thing, since my father is a durian-lover, I grew up loving the smell and taste of the durian.

This time, Tito Frank bought durian at the stalls near Magsaysay Park which we ate as dessert for dinner. It was really so yummy. Durian is definitely one of the best things that Davao has to offer. It is a must do for every traveler in Davao City to have a taste before leaving the place.

*Other Photos Courtesy of Ivy Buno

Southern Jaunt XV - Lola Abon's Durian Candy

When it comes to Durian Candy and other sweets, I bet most Davaoeños would recommend Lola Abon’s.

As a backyard industry, Lola Abon’s started to sell her durian candies in the garage of her home. But now, their store is already made of concrete where lots of good-tasting Durian candies are displayed for buyers to choose from. We were also fortunate to buy loads of durian ice cream. I was really craving for it since our last trip to Davao City two year ago. It was really very good.

Durian Ice Cream

Aside from durian candies, Mangosteen candies are also being sold at Lola Abon’s. In fact, these are really very delectable and reasonably priced. So do not shy away from buying some for personal consumption and pasalubong as well.

Moreover, what I like most about Lola Abon’s is the friendliness of the people. I remember the first time that we were in Davao, we went to a different store but to our dismay, the seller who happens to be the owner of the establishment was so rude and boorish. So we made it a point not to return and buy any products from that establishment again. From what I heard, others also experienced the same disrespectful treatment from the same person.

So if you want the best durian candies in Davao City, go to Lola Abon’s because as they say it, it is "(t)he most popular durian candy throughout the world."

Lola Abon's Durian Candies, Inc.
23 San Miguel Village, Matina, Davao City
Tel. No. +63 82 297-2391

*Credit goes to Tita Nelia and Ivy Buno for the other pictures

Southern Jaunt XIV - Kuilan's Siopao

Kuilan’s is perhaps the most famous siopao in Davao City. Although smaller in size as compared with the usual siopao offered by the different convenience stores and stalls around Metro Manila, Kuilan’s is nonetheless bigger in bite. The siopao at Kuilan’s is overstuffed with filling leaving no room for air pockets inside. Besides, it is very affordable as it costs only P12.00 / P13.00 depending on the flavor (chicken, pork, mongo). Another thing is that it is the only siopao that I know that do not come with a separate sauce.

formerly La Paz Siopao

I can eat a box of Kuilan's Siopao in a day

Although Kuilan’s produce lots of siopao everyday, make sure to buy in the morning or early in the afternoon since their supply for the day really gets sold out very fast. I bet, once you get a hand of this siopao, you’ll definitely crave for more.

An acquiantance that happens to be from Davao City, also mentioned that their empanada is also worth trying. Too bad, I got to know of this just after our trip. Next time, maybe.

always packed with customers buying Siopao

Kuilan’s Foodhaus is located somewhere in Dacudao Avenue (just after Opal St.), Agdao, Davao City.

Southern Jaunt XIII - Rancho Palos Verdes

Rancho Palos Verdes is the premier residential and recreational paradise in Davao City. A joint venture of Sta. Lucia Realty and Dizon Farms, it is supposedly the grandest development of its kind in Mindanao. It offers an 18-hole golf course designed by Andy Dye, hugs the natural rolling terrain in the area.

During the last day of our stay in Davao City, we were fortunate that Tito Frank is scheduled to go to Palos Verdes since he was then busy organizing a golf tournament. It really took me a while to again thread on the fairways and greens of a golf course. And this golf course really is impressive.

golf cart...for the Chairman

Since we really are not golfer, we just roamed the clubhouse and took pictures. Maybe next time we'll be able to play golf and shoot for birdies and eagles in this golfer's haven. Who knows?

Restaurant at the Clubhouse

Happy Shiny People Laughing

Hole

Southern Jaunt XII - Pearl Farm

Pearl Farm Beach Resort is the most famous of all the beach resorts in Davao. Of course, it is the most beautiful and prestigious as well. It has become popular not only to local tourists but also to foreigners.

So when we were informed that Pearl Farm is offering discounted day-tour rates at P1500, we immediately grabbed the offer. This is already cheap since the usual rates start at P2500 per person. Also, the published rate for the buffet lunch is already P700, add to this the roundtrip transfers to and from the resort, so we really had a bargain.

Off to Pearl Farm

Owned by the Florendos, Pearl Farm got its name from the fact that it is a former cultivation farm of south sea pearls. It is actually located in two islands. The main resort is located in the Island Garden City of Samal (Samal Island) while the luxurious Villas are located in nearby Malipano Island.

Colorful Schools of Fish

Running against the clock in going to the resort’s wharf in Sasa, we were so relieved that we arrived just in time for boarding. One thing that you have to remember, guests need to first book on-line or through one of the resort’s sales offices. We booked ours at their booth located on the second floor of the Gaisano Mall in Davao. Keep in mind that Pearl Farm has its own Marina and the boat leaves only per scheduled trips, the earliest of which is at 8:00AM and the last trip is scheduled at 4:00PM.

Reception Area at Malipano Island

Malipano Island offers beautiful white sand beaches

It will take another one-hour boat ride from the marina to Pearl Farm depending on the type of boat used. We tried to transfer to a bigger boat along the way but strong waves made it too risky, hence the boatmen decided to forego the idea. We were not in a hurry anyway. Besides, the view along the way adds more excitement to newbies like us.

Parola Bar

The Samal Suites

Guests are welcomed at the Parola Bar, which also serves as the departure area for guests. It is perhaps the most photographed building in the resort. After a short briefing, we proceeded to tour the resort.

Infinity Pool

Mt. Apo beckons

Samal Suite Beach Area

Hey Hunny

Stairway to the Hilltop Houses (Balay Rooms)


white sand is visible through the very clear sea

Two pools are available for the guests. The infinity pool is located just after the Parola Bar, near the Maranao Restaurant while the other is located in the Mandaya Beach Area. Getting around the resort is relatively easy, as electric vehicles are available to bring anywhere in the resort. Aside from the two beaches in the main resort, Malipano Island offers beaches and pristine waters as well, which guests may visit through a 5-10 minute boat ride. The boat ride is free by the way.

Ylang Ylang Spa


That's Davao City on the background

Maranao Restaurant

Beach at Malipano Island opposite Samal Island

Beach lovers will surely fall in love with Pearl Farm. The relaxing environment set in a very receptive manner adds that distinctive allure to the resort. The clear and azure sea is also home to various species of fish and corals, so don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gears with you.

Hunny....at the fairway of the golf hole in Malipano

At the beach near the Villas in Malipano Island

Malipano Villas

Boutique for souvenirs

Electric Car

glimpse

Pool at the Mandaya Area

Low tide at the Mandaya Area

Wanna Relax?

We truly had a wonderful time in Pearl Farm. Great scenery, wonderful atmosphere, scrumptious buffet, and warm resort staff, Pearl Farm has it all. For more details, just visit http://www.pearfarmresort.com/

Low Tide

Beach at the Mandaya Area

Coconut

Serene moments are a plenty

Bye for now...

Slides in the middle of the sea

Davao City skyline

Sunset in Davao City

Boy

Hello Ladies

when the light gives way to darkness

Pearl Farm personnel

Yeehaa