GVB wins awards at 21st PTAA Travel Tour Expo

MANILA, Philippines - The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) represented Guam at the biggest and most anticipated travel show in the Philippines.

The 21st Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) Travel Tour Expo was held on Feb. 14-16 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The expo was opened by Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, who signaled for the growth of the Filipino economy and demand for overseas travel. Over 200 airlines, cruise liners, travel agencies, hotels and tour companies participated in this year’s event. The show was also well attended by over 80,000 travelers looking for affordable destination packages.

“The travel expo was a great success in showcasing our beautiful island,” said GVB acting general manager Nathan Denight. “While we highlighted Guam’s rich culture, flavorful cuisine and captivating beaches, we played up how our duty-free shopping is actually more affordable.”

Denight led a small team of GVB officials consisting of marketing officer II Gina Kono, marketing officer I Haven Torres and GVB Philippine representatives during this three-day event. They aimed to further promote shopping in Guam and group travel for professionals and entrepreneurs.

Guests who visited the GVB booth were treated to a colorful and lively show by Guam’s Chamorro cultural dancers, who also performed a couple of live performances on the travel expo’s main stage.

GVB also became a highlight of the event after receiving two major awards: Most Popular Booth (International Pavilion – 2nd Level) and Overall Winner for Best Performance by the Guam Cultural Chamorro Dancers.

The Guam team also promoted GVB’s signature events such as the Guam International Marathon on April 13 and Guam Micronesia Island Fair from April 25-27. They also expanded on the upcoming Shop Guam Festival in November 2014 and the next Festival of the Pacific Arts (FESTPAC) that Guam will be hosting from May 22-June 4, 2016.