With domestic travel on the upswing, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reinforced its tourism efforts with a trade fair between visitors and top hotels, resorts and accommodations in the provinces of CALABARZON, representing Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon.
In partnership with the Local Government Units and the private tourism sector, the DOT presented some of the country’s finest properties which included Caliraya Recreation Center in Laguna; The Farm at San Benito, Mount Malarayat Golf and Country Club, Hotel Pontefino, Eagle Point Resort, and Matabungkay Beach Resort in Batangas; Tagaytay Country Hotel in Tagaytay; Nurture Spa Village, Microtel Inn and Suites and Fuego Hotels and Properties Management Corp. in Cavite; and Club Manila East in Rizal.
“This travel trade is expected to further spur the growth of domestic tourism, and at the same time sustain inbound arrivals as local and foreign visitors seek out the region’s newly launched properties and exciting tourist activities,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.
“Aside from CALABARZON’s highlights which are its beaches, volcanic springs and historical landmarks, we have also put together other alternative activities that cater to a diverse market. Some of these packages are on wellness, golf, craft making, history and arts tour, and community outreach exposures for the local and foreign tourists,” added Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions.
Community outreach exposure involves visits to small workshops in the provinces where community members work on creating handicrafts, local delicacies and other sources of livelihood.
The buyer and seller session is just one of the trade events in the Region 4 showcase called, ‘Excite! Delight! @ the Sights CALABARZON,’ which opened last July 14, 2009 at the Clamshell, History Town: Intramuros.
“We invite the public to come and visit our showcase. It’s a chance to get very good promos and discounts, as we have some of the country’s best destinations offering exciting activities for the whole family,” shared DOT Regional Director Louella Jurilla.
Other scheduled activities in the CALABARZON regional showcase include Cavite Night, featuring dance and musical performances; and Rizal Day, presenting craft and martial arts demonstrations, cultural performances and a fashion show of local designs.