Boston Travel Guide (Davao Oriental/Davao Region/Mindanao/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Boston

Boston, a small but picturesque town in Davao Oriental, Mindanao, is slowly gaining popularity among travelers who want to experience the raw beauty of the Philippines. Known for its untouched beaches, rare wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and diverse cultural heritage, Boston is the perfect destination for adventurous souls, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Boston

Boston may be small but there is no lack of interesting things to see and do. Whether you are looking to soak up some history, experience local culture, or simply relax and enjoy the natural scenery, there is something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

History buffs will appreciate Boston’s rich cultural heritage and its many museums and historical places. The following are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

Boston Century-old Church – A beautiful and well-preserved church that dates back to the Spanish-era.
Boston Municipal Hall – A charming historical building that now houses the local government office.
Bostonian Carabao Center – Home to the famous Philippine Carabao, this institution provides visitors with valuable information about the carabao and farming techniques.

Natural Attractions of Boston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Boston is also known for its natural beauty, with plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. The following are some of the top natural attractions in Boston:

Aliwagwag Falls – A 33-tiered waterfall considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines.
Tinuy-an Falls – A majestic 55-meter-high waterfall that is famous for its beautiful rainbow-colored mist.
Hanginan Mountain Viewpoint – A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boston

For those who want to explore Boston’s natural beauty by foot and bike, here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

Aliwagwag Eco Park – This park is set amidst 42,000 hectares of virgin forests and features hiking trails, campgrounds, and scenic picnic areas.
Bitingon Hidden Falls Trail – A short and easy hiking trail that leads to a beautiful hidden waterfall.
Boston to Cateel Coastal Road Trip – This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and takes visitors through small fishing villages and lush forests.

Best Things to Do in Boston: Activities and Tours

For adventure seekers and culture lovers alike, Boston has plenty of activities and tours to offer. Some of the top things to do in Boston are:

Island-Hopping Tour – Boston is surrounded by pristine islands that are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing. Join a guided tour to discover the best of these islands.
Heritage Village Tour – Learn about Boston’s rich cultural heritage and history by exploring its traditional villages and meeting the locals.
Whale Watching Trip – Witness the majesty of whales up close by joining a whale watching trip from Boston’s neighboring towns of Mati and Lupon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boston

To make the most out of your trip to Boston, here’s a sample 7-day itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Arrival in Boston, check-in, relax
Day 2	Island hopping tour, beach bumming, and snorkeling
Day 3	Boston-century old church and Bostonian Carabao Center, dine at a local restaurant
Day 4	Tinuy-an Falls, Bitas River, Enchanted River, and Hinatuan Sacred Cave
Day 5	Aliwagwag Eco Park, hanginan mountain viewpoint, and trekking
Day 6	Whale watching, free time, souvenir shopping
Day 7	Check-out and departure

Food and Drink Scene of Boston

No trip to Boston is complete without trying its local cuisines and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

Kinilaw – A local delicacy made of raw fish or meat marinated in vinegar and mixed with spices.
Lechon – A Filipino-style roasted pork that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Sinuglaw – A combination of grilled pork and raw fish, mixed with vinegar and spices.
Tuna Kilawin – A unique take on the classic kinilaw, this dish is made with fresh tuna and tangy coconut vinegar.

Local Beverages

Coconut Water – A refreshing drink that is widely available in Boston as it is abundant in the region.
Tuba – A sweet, mildly alcoholic drink made from the sap of coconut palm trees.
Durian Shake – A popular drink in the region made from pureed durian fruit, milk, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Boston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Despite being a small town, Boston has a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beach resorts. Here are some highly recommended options:

Boston Paradise Beach Resort – A beachfront resort with a stunning pool, restaurant, and bar.
Lebbak Heritage Inn – A budget-friendly guesthouse with air-conditioned rooms and free Wi-Fi.
**Dive & Trek Camp **– A unique camping experience that includes hiking, diving, and local homestays.

What to Buy in Boston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Boston is known for its abundant natural resources and rich cultural heritage, which make for excellent souvenirs and gifts. Some of the best things to buy in Boston are:

Handicrafts – Intricately woven bags, mats, and hats made by the locals.
Coconut Products – Virgin coconut oil, coconut sugar, and coco jam are some of the most popular coconut-based products in Boston.
Local Delicacies – Hinatuan Ensaymada (a local pastry), Pili nuts, and mangoes are some local delicacies that you should consider bringing back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Boston

Like many areas in the Philippines, Boston has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors to Boston will surely feel welcomed by the locals. However, it’s important to be respectful of the locals’ customs and beliefs. For example, avoid pointing with your feet, as this is considered rude.

Best Time to Visit Boston

The best time to visit Boston is between the months of November and May when the weather is cooler and drier. The summer months (June through September) tend to be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons. However, the rainy season (July through October) can also bring in fresh water to the falls, which makes the waterfalls a beautiful site to see.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boston

To ensure a pleasant trip to Boston, here are some important do’s and don’ts:

Do:

Respect the locals’ customs and beliefs.
Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home.
Bargain for lower prices when shopping in markets.
Dress modestly; avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places.

Don’t:

Do not litter; dispose of trash properly.
Do not touch or disturb wildlife.
Do not disrespect historical landmarks or artifacts.
Do not initiate physical contact with strangers.

Safety and Health

Boston is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s still important to take every precaution to ensure your safety. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Boston:

Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling at night.
Keep your valuable possessions in a secure place.
Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
Only use licensed transportation services.

Health in Boston:

Always bring insect repellent when hiking in the forests.
Bring sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Stay hydrated; drink bottled or filtered water.
Only eat well-cooked food.

Getting to Boston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Boston is accessible by air, land, and sea. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Boston

Francisco Bangoy International Airport – The nearest international airport is located in Davao City.

Bus Stations Near Boston

Davao Ecoland Bus Terminal – This is the main bus terminal in Davao City and has regular trips to Davao Oriental, including Boston.

Other Options

Private Car Rental – Many car rental companies offer online reservations and pick-up and drop-off services at the airport or bus terminal.

How to Get Around in Boston

The best way to explore Boston is on foot or by motorcycle. It’s also possible to rent a bicycle or hire a tricycle driver to take you around. Public transportation options include jeepneys and multicabs, although they can be overcrowded and uncomfortable.

Where to Go Next from Boston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in the region, there are plenty of other destinations to visit nearby. Some of the top nearby attractions include:

Dahican Beach – A white sand beach known for its strong waves and its being the emerging surfing capital of the south.
Mati City – A beautiful city located on the east coast of Davao Oriental that is famous for its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking beaches.
San Ignacio Church – A well-preserved church in the nearby town of Cateel that dates back to the Spanish era.

Conclusion

From its rich cultural heritage to its natural beauty, Boston has something for every type of traveler. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this hidden gem in Mindanao, Philippines, should definitely be on your travel list. Plan your trip to Boston soon and experience all that this amazing destination has to offer!