Discover Davao City, an emerging digital nomad haven boasting thriving tech hubs, vibrant culture, and unique modes of transportation.
Davao City, located on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, is rapidly gaining popularity as an off-beat destination for digital nomads seeking adventure. With high-speed connectivity, affordable living costs, and a welcoming community, the city has become a rising star for remote work.
Beyond polished co-working spaces bursting with startups, Davao also delights visitors with lush landscapes, delectable cuisine, and modes of transport found nowhere else. The iconic Tuk-Tuk auto rickshaw has become part of the city’s charm.
This definitive guide uncovers everything you need to know about living and working remotely in Davao City.
Why Davao City is a Digital Nomad Dream Destination
For digital nomads seeking vibrant new frontiers, Davao City ticks all the boxes.
High-Speed, Reliable Internet Connectivity
With fiber optic infrastructure and internet speeds averaging 16 Mbps, connectivity is primed for digital work. WiFi connection is easily accessible at cafes, hotels, and co-working spaces across the city.
Thriving Startup Ecosystem
Government initiatives like Davao Innovative Hub foster tech and creative startups, with funding, training, and incubation support. The startup scene is thriving – expect to rub shoulders with founders and developers in co-working spaces like The Hive.
Affordable Cost of Living
At just $800 per month, costs in Davao City are lower than in Manila or Cebu. Shared accommodation starts from $150 per month, while food from lively street markets and carinderias (local eateries) cost only a few dollars.
Accessible Co-Working Spaces
Global chains like CoCo and WeWork provide polished co-working environments, while Piso CoWorking offers affordable hot desking at $30 per week. Spaces boast strong WiFi, private nooks, and networking opportunities.
Whether you’re a nomad, expat, or startup founder – Davao City has the work-life infrastructure for sustained success.
Inside Davao’s Thriving Tech Hubs
Beyond gorgeous landscapes lies a quietly progressive economy centered around technology and innovation. Meet some of the hubs propelling Davao forward:
Founded in 2018, The Hive is one of Davao’s pioneering co-working spaces catering to startups and freelancers. The collaborative hub hosts over 50 members across private offices and hot desks.
Key Highlights:
- Startup incubation facilities like free legal and accounting advisory
- Member-driven events like Startup Grind speaker sessions
- Onsite coffee bar and wellness room for breaks
As a pioneering government-led initiative under Davao City Investment Promotion Center, Davao Innovative Hub aims to nurture tech innovation.
Major Functions:
- Co-Working Space – Affordable hot desks and private offices for lease. Members enjoy meeting rooms, hammock zones, even nap pods!
- Incubation & Acceleration – Startups undergo a structured program with mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities.
- Skills Training – Free workshops, boot camps, and hackathons facilitate upskilling. Covering topics like UI/UX design, digital marketing, and data analytics.
- Networking – Regular innovation forums and pitch events bring ideas to life.
Accenture and Multinational Presence
Homegrown success has attracted large enterprises and MNCs like Accenture, Convergys, and Hewlett Packard, creating ripple effects across smaller players to supply chains. These big guns provide specialized training and augment talent development across Davao’s ICT landscape.
Immerse in Davao City’s Vibrant Culture
Beyond dynamic workspaces lies a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors – indicators of Davao City’s vibrant living culture that captivates digital nomads.
Feast on Mindanaoan Flavors
Fruits, seafood, exotic meats – Mindanaoan food incorporates flavors from the diverse tribes and traders of its past. Must-try local fare includes:
- Durian – Infamously pungent yet sweet fruit
- Marang – Described as sweeter and smoother than Durian
- Tinola Baboy Ramo – Herb-infused ginger soup with marinated pork
- Kinilaw na Tuna – Fresh tuna ceviche
- Bacolod Chicken Inasal – Grilled chicken with crispy skin
From hotel buffets to humble street food carts, expect an endless feast here in Davao!
Immerse in Colors of Nature
Between work sessions, refresh yourself by diving into nature’s playgrounds found near Davao City.
Popular escapes include:
- Malagos Gardens – Lush botanical paradise stretching over 200 hectares
- Eden Nature Park – Sprawling resort with pine forests, waterfalls, and mountain trails
- Pearl Farm Beach Resort – Pristine island beaches reached by boat
- Mount Apo – Experience sunrise atop the Philippines’ highest peak
Connect With the Locals
Known for warm smiles and hospitality, Davaoenos welcome newcomers with open arms. Seek the locals’ input on the best-kept secrets of the city!
Brush up on conversational Tagalog phrases, settle down for a ride on colorful jeepneys, and open your eyes to cultural nuances. Soon, you’ll discover that the greatest adventures emerge from genuine human connections.
Want to explore Davao City efficiently while soaking in local flavors? Hop onto an ever-present icon – the auto rickshaw Tuk-tuk. These colorfully decorated three-wheelers zip through streets, bringing travelers straight to cultural and commercial hotspots.
Why Tuk-Tuks?
Convenience – As a compact vehicle deftly navigating lanes and tight corners, Tuk-tuks bring you directly anywhere without fuss. Beats walking under the tropical heat!
Cost Savings – Running on gas and maintenance costs way under taxis, Tuk-tuks translate to big savings. Short 1-3km rides cost as little as 30-50 pesos ($0.60-$1).
Thrill – Zipping through side streets and alleyways atop these zippy three-wheelers certainly accelerates your pulse! Drivers may even let you honk the horn.
Environment – Electric Tuk-tuks supported by the Asian Development Bank now ply Davao’s streets, reducing noise and carbon footprints.
Tuk-Tuk Travel Tips
Here are some pro tips for ensuring smooth Tuk-tuk journeys:
- Negotiate Fares Beforehand – Agree on rates before setting off to prevent billing surprises later. As a tourist, 150-300 pesos per hour would be reasonable.
- Small Bills – Drivers rarely carry change for large bills. Payment by the exact amount keeps things simple.
- Cover Belongings – With open side vents, Tuk-tuks leave belongings exposed. Drape bags or cloak over valuables.
- Hang On – With steep inclines and abrupt turns, prepare for bumpy rides! Footholds and grip bars stabilize your balance.
Wrap Up
As Davao City transforms into a rising star for digital nomads, remote work can finally align with adventure.
Beyond the numbers game of internet speeds and affordable costs, genuine treasures become accessible. From dynamic startups and tastebud tantalizations to nature’s treasures and modes of transport found nowhere else – surprises await at every turn.
The time to unleash your inner nomad is now. Target Davao City for digital adventures balancing fruitful work and footprint-free fulfillment.
Hop onto a Tuk-tuk and let unexpected delights unfold!
