CEBU, Philippines - Aside from the traditional leisure travelers and divers, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano cited the growing impact of alternative travel markets in Europe that came about from changes in the global scenario. “We are now seeing a more significant number of high-spending tourists looking for places with raw and rustic charm without the trappings of mass tourism. We are equipped for these shifts in the tourism industry’s landscape.”
Durano announced this eagerly anticipated development during the Far East Live Seminar (FELS) attended by more that 250 travel retailers of Meier’s Weltreisen’s, Europe’s biggest long-haul travel firm from Germany.
The FELS workshop entailed optional pretours to Baguio, Banaue, Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, Dumaguete, Negros, Palawan and Sagada.
The Banaue Rice Terraces, for most of the agents, stood out as a one-of-a-kind heritage site they have not encountered anywhere in the world. The caves, hills, and hanging coffins of Sagada were also cited for their distinctive and idyllic appeal even for seasoned travelers. “Most of them have been to our country for the first time. They are surprised to discover the wide range of ecotourism adventures that we offer,” Durano further said.
Eduardo Jarque Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, stated that “the country has managed to build a continuing relationship with Europe’s tourism industry through its participation in major travel missions, aggressive marketing of European-based tourism offices, concession with local partners and strong presence in foreign media.”
This is not an overnight success, but rather a long journey of negotiations, promotions, and involvement, complemented with the unyielding support of our partner hotels, resorts, transportation firms and travel operators,” Jarque said.
The Philippines is likewise a year-round destination, another desirable rarity for Europeans, according to Venus Tan, DOT Director for Western, Central and Eastern Europe.
The alternative tour group is an ideal market nitch for Philippine tourism because there are a lot of unexplored destinations still in their natural, virgin state.
With all the diverse destinations in the country, tourism definitely plays an important role in the economic progress.