MANILA, Philippines - “Family trips are very important because they foster family ties,” says mom Desiree Villegas, who takes her family on a trip at least once or twice a year. “Vacations are a source of big celebration for us. It allows us to build more precious memories with loved ones.”
For Desiree, their bonding begins even before they leave for their trip. Organizing the itinerary, booking the tickets and documenting the trip become tasks that they carry out as a family.
“My eldest, Gaby, does the research for the trip,” Desiree shares. “The pictures are taken by our designated photographers Miky, or the youngest, Javi. Of course all the booking and budgeting is my job as the financer. So the togetherness already begins even before we depart for our trip.”
Aside from revitalizing family ties, dad Carlos Melad says that traveling with his family two to three times a year is a chance for his child to learn things beyond what the books or school could teach him.“As my son grows up, each travel experience becomes an educational trip for him,” he says. “The pictures that he sees in the books and the teachings in school come to life. It also gives him an opportunity to have great conversations with young minds from different cultures.”
The peaceful paradise of Palawan and vibrant Boracay are among the local destinations that both Carlos’ and Desiree’s families frequent.
“We go to Boracay for the fine and very kid-friendly sand, while the jetski and para-sailing are great stress-relievers for the adults,” Carlos enthuses. “We just love Palawan for its wonderful people and colorful corals. The entire scenery there is just so refreshing.”
Energetic Hong Kong, meanwhile, offers many theme parks such as Disneyland and Ocean Park for a different kind of family fun.
“We have been to Hong Kong a couple of times, and we love the Ocean Park, the Victoria’s Peak Cable Car and the lively shopping district. You can also easily find Filipino Foods there, among the other local delicacies that our palates willingly explore,” Carlos shares.
With Cebu Pacific, one of Asia’s fastest-growing low-cost airlines, more Filipino families can now afford to travel more often. The airline’s year-round low fares to both international and domestic destinations enables every family to save on plane tickets and spend more at their chosen destinations.
“Cebu Pacific made traveling more affordable without sacrificing quality,” notes Desiree. “Comfort and safety are essential in any vacation spree, and Cebu Pacific makes it achievable even on a tight budget.”