Davao is a lively coastal city in the Philippines that sits among beautiful beaches and natural formations. It is also home to the “Durian Dome,” truly one of Southeast Asia’s most famous fruits. The city is an economical yet amazing destination to explore, and will leave you inundated with its range of attractions to visit.
So, pack up and set off to this vibrant Philippine city for an unforgettable vacation experience. As part of your packing and preparation, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance.
Davao Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
What is the one tool that you absolutely need to enjoy a secure and stress-free vacation abroad?
That’s right, travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Davao?
If you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, travel medical insurance is now optional for visitors to the Philippines. However, if you remain unvaccinated for COVID or cannot provide proof of vaccination, you are required by law to have travel insurance providing at least $35,000 in coverage, including coverage for COVID-19.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Davao?
Accidents and health emergencies can occur at any time. However, accessing the right treatment at a reasonable cost in a foreign country can be an intimidating task. Travel medical insurance is the best way to protect against this financial risk. With the right policy, you can access quality healthcare without solely shouldering the financial strain of treatment.
Things To Do for Travelers in Davao
Here are our top five must-visit places in Davao:
Lounge on the beaches of Samal Island
Samal Island is a fascinating blue-water beach just a few miles from the city. You can chill out on the sandy shore, or grab some goggles and jump into the depths of the Samal Coral Garden. The sheer underwater natural beauty of the reef formations will take your breath away.
Climb atop Mount Apo
Standing at 10,311 feet, Mount Apo is the Philippines’ highest peak. The partly rocky and partly icy faces make it a must-do hike for all experienced climbers. The climb is challenging, but the awe-inspiring view from the peak is certainly worth it.
Gorge on some Malagos Chocolate
Malagos Chocolate is a staple of Davao’s culture. Chocolate has been an important part of the city’s history of trade and leisure. Experience the full bean-to-bar journey at the Malagos Chocolate Museum and the Magalaos Garden Resort.
Catch an eagle sighting
The Philippine Eagle is a magnificent bird of prey. Unfortunately, it is on the endangered list today and must be protected in sanctuaries. You can see these mighty birds in their natural habitat at the Eagle Rescue Center and contribute to their protection. If you’re enthusiastic, you can even volunteer at the center for a day.
D’Bone Collector Museum
A truly unique attraction in the city, D’Bone Collector Museum is home to the skeletons and bones of hundreds of unusual animals. From whales to tigers and ostriches, the collection is a reminder of our responsibility to preserve our flora and fauna from endangerment.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Davao
Five things you should keep in mind while planning your trip:
Best time to visit
Davao has a fairly pleasant climate throughout the year. You can expect heavy rainfall during the May-August monsoon season. So, if you have planned for a lot of outdoor trips and destinations during your vacation, it is a good idea to avoid this time of the year.
Insects and diseases
Watch out for disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs. Some insects in the Southeast Asian region could carry harmful diseases like malaria, Zika virus, dengue, etc.
Take adequate precautions against bites like using insect repellent spray and long-sleeved clothes.
Rash driving and road safety
The Philippines is known for its traffic snarls and crowded streets. However, this phenomenon is not quite as bad in smaller cities like Davao. Although, you must remember to be extra careful while crossing roads, biking around, or driving a rental vehicle.
Handy tip for Wi-Fi
Some of the remote parts of the city do not have a stable mobile network connection. Therefore, many travelers recommend getting a portable Wi-Fi device with a dedicated internet connection. This could also be useful in times of health and safety emergencies.
Tourist scams
Although Davao is a safe city for tourists from all over the world, you should beware of petty scammers. Read up on the going rates for taxi rides, guided tours, and souvenirs. If you find someone overcharging you, just move on. There will be dozens of other alternatives.
Before You Travel to Davao - Do This
Stay safe in the rainy season
The monsoon in Davao could catch you off-guard. There are times when it doesn’t stop raining for days on end. Be prepared with the right gear and medicines to stay safe on your trip.
Check your vaccination status
We recommend that you get a health check-up before flying off to Southeast Asia. Check if you need any booster vaccination shots to protect against prevalent diseases.
Get insured
Research and compare various travel medical insurance policies to see which plan is most suitable for you.