This January, I had the opportunity to visit my e-commerce team in Davao, Philippines—a trip that blended work with fun. It wasn’t just a chance to see a new country across the world, but also to connect with my amazing team and explore their culture & food.

Team Bonding in Paradise

The highlight of my trip was the time spent with my team. Working remotely has its perks, but nothing compares to meeting in person, sharing experiences, and building stronger bonds. What made this even more special was getting to meet their friends & families. It added a personal touch to our professional relationships, turning colleagues into family. The warmth and welcoming nature of everyone was truly heartwarming, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the team’s daily lives.

Work Amidst Natural Beauty

Davao and it's neighboring islands offered a backdrop of spectacular scenery which made the usual grind feel like a refreshing retreat. We were very active; playing Frisbee on the beach, snorkeling the island reefs and driving through beautiful landscapes. 

Culinary Delights

The culinary experiences in Davao were nothing short of amazing. Each meal, with mainly local dishes, showed me small taste of Davao’s rich culinary heritage. Durian, the "king of fruits", was a challenge with the smell and texture, but loved everything else. The seafood & crab night was a highlight for me. 

Reflections

This trip to Davao was more than just a business visit; it was a memorable adventure that enriched our team’s dynamics and left us with lasting memories. It showed me that even though they're a world away, and grew up in a completely different environment, we have WAY more in common than I would've thought and have now become a solid, & connected team.  I returned home inspired, refreshed, and with a deeper bond with my team, making me look forward to our next get together.