Radisson Group cut ratesto spur domestic spending

CEBU, Philippines —  Trying to stay afloat during the lowest season so far in history for hotels amid the Covid-19 effects, the Radisson Group of hotels in the Visayas and Mindanao announced slashed rates to spur domestic spending. Radisson Blu Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, and Park Inn by Radisson, announced their respective special rates to cope with the occupancy downtime.

According to Ruby Nepomuceno, Radisson Blu Cebu director of business development, what is inspiring to note for the Cebu property is the local marketis receptive to the hotel*s attractive offer, particularly the walk in diners.The reduced local rates, which is also embraced by Cebuanos and out of town travelers, sustained the hotel*s business, Nepomuceno said.Nevertheless, the usual business, which is supposedly high this season hasbeen affected, she admitted.Last year, the hotel registered 79 percent to 80 percent occupancy rate during this particular season. Today, it*s a far cry from last year*s high.Likewise, Josette Palma - Director of Sales ay Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, said the 199-room hotel, which just opened in September last year, said the domestic market has kept the business alive.

At present, Iloilo property is registering 40 percent to 50 percent.Meanwhile, occupancy for Park Inn by Radisson registered the highest rate among the other properties due to strong domestic guests profile, said Flordeliza Gamo, director of sales at Park Inn by Radisson Davao.Despite 60 percent to 65 percent occupancy rate, Davao property is also offering attractive packages.Tourism stakeholders hope to keep surviving amid the virus-induced slowdown, as long as the domestic market keeps in spending vacations within the country.