Cebu continues to draw in tourists from new markets

CEBU, Philippines- Despite China’s not so rosy economy, Cebu is still getting an increasing number of Chinese tourists as well as leisure travelers from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Australia.

Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa general manager Nicholas Smith said Cebu’s diverse tourist offering, from culture, heritage, and natural resources, continue to draw in tourists from emerging markets into the province.

Shangri-La, which is the largest five-star resort facility in Cebu, with 530 rooms, noted an encouraging booking index from China, HongKong, Singapore, Australia, as well as United States, and Europe.

According to Smith, while the tourism trade in Cebu is largely fueled by Korean and Japanese visitors, other nationalities are slowly discovering Cebu, as fresh destination of choice.

Smith mentioned that the continuous move of airline companies opening up direct flights from Cebu to international routes like PAL's long haul flight from Cebu to Los Angeles and vice-versa, and  Cebu Pacific's active stance in connecting Cebu to countries like Japan, Taiwan, China, among others are the important boosters pulling up Cebu's ability to lure leisure and Even corporate tourists.

The promising tourism market in the province prompted the 23-year old resort to spend another round of renovations this year, particularly to improve the facilities of its premium accommodation enclave, the 186-room Ocean Wing.

Smith added the market's demand has changed and expectation for constant upgrading and achieving the highest standard is core to the well-informed world travelers.

Simultaneous to its move to modernize the look, service, and amenities within the sprawling five-star resort, Smith said offering and services would also highlight on providing stay and dining experience with strong local touch, which means the 530-room resort will promote Cebuano food favorites.

Moreover, the resort will also conceptualize unique and tailor-made events and adventures that will feature the culture, natural resources and destinations within the province, including farm-to-table, and sea-to-table dining set-up.

He said Cebu has a fantastic attraction mix, as it is not only becoming the "darling" of leisure seekers, but also business-related events, with strong come-on as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conference and Exhibition) destination.

Smith believes that Cebu’s hosting of the APEC Summit will provide long term benefits for tourism.

As an expat, who is only on his fifth-week in Cebu, Smith immediately noticed Cebu's fantastic aura as a destination, mentioning the fisherman's village, the 15th century church in Danao City, the impressive whale-shark destination in Oslob and other must-visit places within the province. (FREEMAN)