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Our 3D2N Davao Trip: Reconnecting with Family and Discovering the Beauty of the City

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Heartfelt 3 Days and 2 Nights Family Trip to Davao City: Visiting Grandma and Exploring the Best of Davao

Traveling to Davao City has always been more than just a getaway — it’s a journey back home, filled with family memories, warm reunions, and heartfelt moments. Our 3 days and 2 nights trip to Davao City was both emotional and refreshing as we visited my grandmama in Mintal and my brother’s family in Mandug, while exploring some of the city’s must-visit destinations.

Day 1: Early Flight to Davao and a Heartwarming Reunion

Our adventure began early morning with a 6:00 AM flight, and after about an hour of travel, we landed safely at Davao International Airport around 8:00 AM. Since our check-in time at Crown Regency Hotel Davao was still at 2 PM, my Aunt kindly fetched us and brought us to their home in Mintal.

On our way, the tempting smell of fresh durian caught my attention. We stopped by a stall and bought the Puyat variety, one of the creamiest and sweetest durians in Davao — absolutely a must-try for fruit lovers.

When we reached my Aunt’s house, I finally saw my grandmama Nanay Loreta after a long time. She’s now 86 years old, bedridden, and still recovering after being hospitalized a few months ago. It truly broke my heart seeing her so frail and dependent on her caregiver. Yet, my heart was comforted when she recognized me and my husband despite her fading memory. We shared lunch together, enjoyed the durian, and spent a few precious hours talking and reminiscing.

In the afternoon, my Uncle drove us to the hotel for check-in. Crown Regency Hotel may not be modern, but it has a rustic charm — with its vintage furniture, spacious lobby, swimming pool, and gym. We took the rest of the day to relax and unwind.

That evening, we dined at Coco Bar, located just outside the hotel. Their buko pie and sisig meals were delicious, the perfect way to end our first day in Davao.

Day 2: Food Trip, Souvenirs, and Adventure in Davao City

The next day, we started our Davao adventure by riding a jeepney to Poblacion Mall, where we visited the famous Lachi’s Sans Rival Atbp. — a well-loved restaurant known for their heavenly desserts. I also grabbed a few souvenirs to bring home.

For lunch, we went to Penong’s Grill House, one of the most popular local restaurants in Davao serving authentic grilled dishes that truly capture the Davao taste.

After our hearty lunch, we explored People’s Park — a vibrant green space filled with sculptures, fountains, and tropical plants. It’s one of the most relaxing places to walk around in the city. Then we visited the Davao Museum, where we learned more about the region’s culture, history, and indigenous heritage. The exhibits were fascinating and well-curated.
Later that afternoon, we returned to my Aunt’s home to pick up my niece, who helps take care of my grandmama, before heading to Davao Crocodile Park. But before that, we dropped by at the public cemetery in Ulas to visit my Lolo Cristutu's resting place. We finally visited him for almost 16 years. I wasn't able to attend on his funeral because I'm about to give birth on our 3rd child that time. After there, we moved to the next visit. We arrived just before closing time, but still got to enjoy the experience. The entrance fee was ₱450 per person, and it was worth every peso seeing the crocodiles, birds, and other animals up close.
From there, my Uncle suggested we head to Mandug to visit my brother and his family. We stopped by my Aunt’s house along the highway but since no one heard us, we continued to my brother’s place. Seeing him again after so long brought me so much joy. We dined together at Charles Kitchen and Sizzling House, ordering a feast of beef steak, lumpia, fish fillet, buttered chicken, sisig, bam-i, and of course, 3 liters of Coca-Cola to share. We had fun conversations over dinner, even as the rain poured outside. It was truly a wonderful family night.

Day 3: Philippine Eagle Center and a Tearful Goodbye

On our last day, my Uncle picked us up early from the hotel and we visited the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, Baguio District. Entrance fee was ₱300 per person plus an environmental fee of ₱5. A student tour guide warmly welcomed us and led the tour, introducing us to the majestic Philippine Eagles, reptiles, monkeys, and other wildlife.

We saw Vigo, the famous eagle featured on the ₱1,000 bill, and learned about their conservation programs and how people can “adopt” an eagle by donating. We also saw the Burmese python, crocodiles, monkeys, and even a massive Lego-built Philippine Eagle frame — truly impressive. Before leaving, we bought souvenirs and fed the fish at the pond.

After the tour, we stopped by my grandmama’s home once more to say goodbye. It was an emotional moment — she cried, and so did I. But I promised to visit her again soon, in God’s grace.

By 1:00 PM, we were already on our way back to the Davao International Airport for our flight home, hearts full of love and memories.

Final Thoughts

Our 3 days and 2 nights in Davao City was a meaningful mix of family reunion and local adventure. From the taste of fresh Puyat durian and flavorful Penong’s grill dishes to the heart-touching moments with my grandmama, every part of this trip reminded me of the beauty of family and the richness of Davao’s culture.

If you’re planning a family trip to Davao, include People’s Park, Davao Museum, Crocodile Park, and the Philippine Eagle Center on your itinerary. But above all, don’t forget to reconnect with your loved ones — because no journey is more memorable than the one that brings you closer to family.

Tags: couple travel,Crown Regency Hotel Davao,Davao City itinerary,Davao Crocodile Park,Mintal and Mandug visit,People’s Park,

JustMom | Lifestyle, Recipes, Exercises and Product Reviews by Meachel, pinay mom of four.

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