The Farm at San Benito, El Nido bag top honors in int’l tourism events

MANILA, Philippines - Two of the country’s premier resorts – The Farm at San Benito in Batangas and El Nido Resorts in Palawan – have received the highest international honors from prestigious travel and tourism fairs in Berlin and Abu Dhabi, respectively.

Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said these international recognitions prove the Philippines’ commitment to improve the tourism industry.

 â€œIt is our pride that our country’s tourist destinations get recognized not only for their world-class amenities, high standard services, and unique brand of Filipino hospitality they provide, but more importantly for their commitment to social responsibility. We are definitely delighted with all the accolades we have been receiving, but being honored for responsible tourism is the ultimate reward as it is a community effort,” Jimenez said.

The Farm at San Benito was adjudged the Best Medical Wellness Resort worldwide at the International Tourismus Borse (ITB) held early March in Berlin, Germany.

For two consecutive years, SENSES Wellness Awards, the most prestigious recognition in the spa industry, has cited The Farm’s commitment to its guests of empowering them towards optimum health and embracing conscious living.

The only resort in the country that offers natural and holistic health programs focused on cancer care, diabetes, hypertension and obesity, The Farm promises its guests to attain and sustain improved quality of life through preventive health strategies, integrative medical services, and nourishing food.

In 2002, its detoxification and cleansing retreats with raw, live cuisine were considered revolutionary. And in just a decade of operation, it has already boasted of a long list of international accolades.

SENSES Wellness Awards acknowledges outstanding resorts and spas that adhere to and embody the award’s philosophy – offering comprehensive, holistic service that includes exemplary wellness standards, medical treatments and therapies, expertly administered by highly-trained staff at unique, serene and tranquil locations.

ITB, on the other hand, is one of the world’s largest tourism fairs that gathers influential members of international hotel chains, lifestyle, and wellness industries to promote and support the premium lifestyle and wellness guide.

Equally recognized for being the driving force behind sustainable development of its local community for more than three decades, El Nido Resorts in Palawan received the Community Benefit Award during the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC’s) Tourism for Tomorrow Awards ceremony held in Abu Dhabi last April 9.