Lovely Mati

Summer in the Philippines has begun. We can’t deny the fact that we are already experiencing the warmness and humid air transversely in the archipelago. For us Filipinos, one of the best ways to escape the exasperation and high temperament is to go somewhere near seaside. Otherwise, eating Halo-halo. Huh! Where else can we go to? Undeniably, lovely Mati is the finest place.

Mati is a 5th class city and capital province of Davao Oriental, Philippines. Riding a private car, usually, you will be able to reach the metropolis around 3 to 4 hours from Duterte’s home town. But since my friend Ebs is a fast and furious skilled motorist, we’re able to reach Mati at 2 hours’ drive only. Imagine, with car handles broken. Kidding! If you don’t have a private car, you have option to ride a van- same time travel with private car - or via bus around 4 to 5 hours. Price rate ranging from P220 – P250 per person more or less. Vans and buses are accessible at Ecoland Terminal.

This place is located in the south-eastern side of Mindanao and is politically subdivided into 26 barangays. As a not so new sightseer, I find Mati as a progressive city. Certainly, change is coming. Commercial buildings, trademarked restaurants and good people summoned everywhere. I can say that in few years’ time, this municipal will be the next Boracay or Palawan of the south.

Along the way, you will be able to see blue and green Instagramable landscapes. Let’s say, 15 minutes before heading to town proper, you’ll encounter the beautiful Pujada Bay and mystic “Sleeping Dinosaur” from Badas point.

For once, cheap thrills are valid as this scenery, right? Nah, it’s more than that. Happy moments seeing it with friends and loved ones will matter most.

Upon checking places, we have noticed that they have their own provincial museum. It’s called “Subangan”. Inside the exhibition hall, you will be able to come across with Davor. A 20 ton preserved sperm whale that measures 53 feet in length and is considered the 7^th largest whale on exhibit in the world. The rest are Davao Oriental’s history, lifestyle, tourism and etc. 

While travelling around the area, you will witness that the city offers different sorts of beach sites. You have option to catch waves and experience calm sea. Furthermore, our group decided to go to Dahican beach since it has been tagged as the famous beach spot and we want to experience the big waves buzzes by locals.

While roaming around the beach and as I am approaching the coastline, my naked eyes sees clear blue water. I thought Siargao is the only surfing spot in Mindanao? But I'm so darn wrong! Dahican beach has big blue waves and steep shore. Stunningly, it was all perfect for surfing and skim boarding. It has a long wide beach shore and creamy white sand which are perfect for sun bathing, FB my day and Instagram story. With conviction, you’ll love to stay here forever. LOLS.

Moreover, the beach tender’s different resorts to stay. Our group decided to checked in at Menzi Beach Park and Campsite. The accommodation is cheap, organized and clean. We have paid for our cottage worth P600 good for 24 hours and entrance fee of P200 per person only. There will be additional charge if you want to use their tent.

Purposefully, the resort is for back packers and campers. It has its own electricity and power source where you can plug your speakers and charge your CP’s to your assigned cottage. You will enjoy the place and all the freebies such as beach volleyball courts, grilling area, bathrooms and shower outside. Plus, they have local carenderias available nearby that mostly selling the eminent Maguindanaon delicacy, Pastil. And you’ll see colorful tent’s and foreigners across the shoreline enjoying the view of the Pacific gulf.

There are several activities that you can do in Dahican. After morning walk along the long white sand, prominently, surfing and skimboarding are few of the best. You could get surfing lesson at different resorts and It will cost you P400 to P500 for an hour. Luckily, Aira’s instructor has a kind heart and has extended his time to teach her for free.

Indeed, Dahican is an awesome place for surfers, to cool down, and hang out with your friends and family. I highly recommend you to stay on this campsite and include this one on your bucket list. This is the best place to be. Lovely Mati worthy experience!

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