Travel and Tourism Industry - Compiled Threads [Archive] - Page 21

Kintoy

January 12th, 2010, 02:45 PM

by Jeremy Kressmann (RSS feed) on Aug 24th 2009 at 10:00AM
www.gadling.com (http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/24/top-10-musical-destinations/)

Music has a way of taking you on a journey. Like any great trip, the songs that inspire us are filled with joyous highs and sobering lows, unexpected revelations and exotic uncertainties. It's only natural then that each of us seeks out music during our travels. Whether it's a CD stand in a bustling market in Morocco or a classically-trained violinist playing on a street corner in Paris, music offers travelers a visceral way to cut through the confusion of language and custom, revealing the true essence of a destination.

Wherever we go, melodies both familiar and exotic burst out of speakers, vibrate in concert halls, groove around city streets and drip off the walls in sweaty dance clubs. Yet it's only in a few select spots around the world that the culture of music becomes a truly tangible attraction. These are the special places where a unique confluence of cultural cross-pollination, inherent creativity and a critical mass of kick-ass musicianship coalesces to create something truly special.

In the course of our journeys here at Gadling, we've uncovered some of the world's most unique and memorable destinations for music. The following list is by no means the end-all-be-all of musical places to visit, but each of the ten spots we've chosen is without a doubt one-of-a-kind and a true musical hotspot. Did we choose any of your favorites? Click below for our picks...

Number 10 - Mali's Festival in the Desert

At first glance, it would be easy to mistake Mali's Festival in the Desert as a cruel mirage. Yet every year this wind-swept country in Northwestern Africa puts on one of the continent's best musical events, featuring traditional Tuareg tunes as well as music from around the globe.

Number 9 - Pitch-perfect karaoke in Manila

Love it or hate it, Karaoke has spread its melodies around the world, from the drinking dens of Tokyo to the back streets of New York. But to truly experience Karaoke talent, head to Manila. Filipino cover bands are legendary for their pitch-perfect renditions of Western pop songs. In fact, if you closed your eyes, you'd be hard pressed to tell the difference from the originals.

Number 8 - Concert hopping in Austin, TX
They like to say everything is bigger in Texas, and Austin's annual South by Southwest music festival certainly doesn't disappoint. Each March, over a thousand bands from around the world descend on the state's capital for four days of drinking, dancing and music industry schmoozing. If you're hoping to catch rock's next great thing or simply looking for a good time, South by Southwest is definitely one of the USA's best music events.

Number 7 - Tokyo Record Collecting
Tokyo, Japan is one of the world's great cultural epicenters, consuming and re-creating pop culture trends at a furious pace. This intense consumption is particularly true of music, where the Japanese excel as the world's consummate music collectors. If you need proof of Tokyo's status as the crown jewel for record shopping, one need only stroll the back alleyways of Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku district. Along the narrow side streets you'll stumble upon hidden second floor record shops packed floor to ceiling with obscure vinyl and out-of-print rarities.

Number 6 - New Orleans gets Jazzed
New Orleans is known as the birthplace of Jazz music. It was the city's unique mixture of French, Spanish and African traditions that allowed the city to develop this particularly unique musical heritage, one that is evident even today. One of the best ways to experience the Big Easy's Jazz culture is the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, perhaps the world's best showcase of this distinctly southern-tinged style.

Number 5 - The London Remix
London has a reputation as a musical chameleon, a city that takes on the world's constantly evolving musical styles, remixing and reinterpreting in a uniquely British way. Whether it's Punk or Techno, Indie Rock or Dubstep, London has something to suit the tastes of about every music lover. Check out this list of London music venues, this rundown of record stores, or top-notch dance clubs like Fabric if you're looking to jump along to the beat.

Number 4 - Kingston sound system parties
Jamaica holds an outsize reputation in the world's musical lore, having birthed world-famous artists like Bob Marley along with hundreds of other equally talented Jamaican singers, producers and musicians. Though the laid-back vibe of Tuff Gong has long-since morphed into the raw sounds of Dancehall and Ragga, you can still experience Jamaican music at its finest at some of Kingston's weekly sound system parties like Passa Passa and Weddy Weddy Wednesday. These rough and tumble affairs take over Kingston's parks and streets with huge speakers, raucous dancing and plenty of fun.

Number 3 - All night techno in Berlin
Something happened when the Berlin Wall came down in 1989. As a divided city was slowly mended together, music fans began to take over the city's abandoned buildings and spaces for semi-legal dance parties. It was the beginning of Techno, a music scene that would soon sweep the capital and most of Europe. Berlin today is ground zero for electronic music fans, with some of the world's best DJ's playing parties that can last all night and into the next day and beyond. Check out the events list at Resident Advisor for a good listing of what's happening.

Number 2 - Shake to the rhythm of Brazilian Carnival

Much like New Orleans and Jamaica, Brazil is the product of a unique confluence of cultures, bringing together Portuguese, African and indigenous influences. Nowhere does this unique cultural history make itself better felt than during Brazil's annual Carnival festivities, when cities across the country like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador erupt in wild displays of samba dancing and furious drumming. Check out this Rio Carnival guide to get started.

Number 1 - Find what's new in New York City

It's hard to even describe how important New York has been to 20th Century musical innovation. Jazz. Punk. Disco. Hip hop. Whatever your preferred style of music, you can find it here...whether its an Indie Rock show at the Bowery Ballroom or killer night of Jazz over at Blue Note, New York's got it all. Spend a day browsing through record stores like Other Music and A-1 Records before catching a show at Mercury Lounge, S.O.B.'s or Lincoln Center.

RonnieR

January 15th, 2010, 04:48 AM

Philippine Starball 2010, February 13, 2010
http://www.philippinestarball.com/header.jpg
http://www.philippinestarball.com/schedules.html
About 80 international, high caliber dancers have already confirmed their participation in the competition. They will be coming from all over the world—USA, Italy, Denmark, Russia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Poland, Australia, Germany, Serbia, England, Bulgaria, Croatia, Latvia, Canada, Norway, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Austria, as well as our Asian countries—Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan.

Emcee of the 3rd Philippine StarBall will be Gary McDonald, 10-time US national champion. The television special will be hosted by Charlotte Jorgensen and Filipino theatrical actor/singer Audie Gemora. Charlotte was seven-time Danish champion and World and European amateur champion. She was featured in the very first season of ABC’s "Dancing with the Stars," and teacher of Jennifer Lopez and Richard Gere in the movie "Shall We Dance?"
photos of 1st Philippine Starball
http://bp3.blogger.com/_ylltOjBAKnQ/R8KcnFkjTKI/AAAAAAAAAGw/BzMTjsdAVMc/s400/starball01.jpg

http://bp3.blogger.com/_ylltOjBAKnQ/R8KcMFkjTII/AAAAAAAAAGg/CgwUGI83ois/s400/starball02.jpg

http://bp2.blogger.com/_ylltOjBAKnQ/R8KXt1kjTHI/AAAAAAAAAGY/fcHs5ly6uAw/s400/starball03.jpg
http://joegalian.blogspot.com/2008/02/1st-philippine-star-ball.html

hakz2007

January 16th, 2010, 06:00 AM

World Class
(http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/latest-news/)

http://camsur.com/images/stories/CamSurNews/world%20class.jpg

After the unprecedented triumph of CamSur in landing the top spot in Philippine tourism, Gov. LRay Villafuerte is even more driven to bring higher prestige to the teeming tourism industry in the province with bigger and more grandiose activities lined up for 2010. Gov LRay's massive tourism drive in CamSur has been the catalyst for the prodigious growth of economy of the province, speaheaded by the governor's unconventional and innovative vision for progress and development.

hakz2007

January 16th, 2010, 07:18 AM

Caramoan continues to draw ‘Survivor’ to Camarines Sur (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/breakingnews/breakingnews/view/20100114-247339/Caramoan-continues-to-draw-Survivor-to-Camarines-Sur)

CARAMOAN, Camarines Sur, Philippines -- For the second time around, Survivor Israel will rent the whole of the Gota Village Resort, a local government-operated tourist destination in Ilawod, Caramoan, Camarines Sur, to film two editions of “Hisardot (Survivor).”

Hisardot’s non-celebrity shoot would last 40 days and the celebrity edition, 30 days, excluding the one and a half months allotted for pre-production so equipment, props and sites could be prepared for the show, said Jimmy Binyamini, production manager.

He said Gota Village was the “best place" to shoot Survivor Israel there, citing the "good people" and the "unique sites” the tourist spot offered.

They were here in 2009 in the same month to shoot one edition of Hisardot whose broadcast ended last month via Israeli national television Channel 10.

This time, they will again start shooting on Feb. 28 and end filming sometime in late May or early June.

Aside from promoting the adventure appeal of Caramoan Islands, which will be shown throughout Israel, the Hisardot will employ some 200 local crew to assist their 120-crew production, according to Binyamini.

“Caramoan is a great adventure site ideal to our show, that’s why we are here again,” he said.

Hisardot has two parts, the “reality” part and the game part where the participants’ wits and survivor instincts are tested, according to Binyamini.

Like castaways on an island, the participants of Survivors are made to live in primitive conditions for 40 straight days, followed by a camera 24 hours a day.

Hisardot is actually the second media outfit of Survivor that filmed their editions on the small islands strewn at the northeast of Caramoan facing the island province of Catanduanes.

The French Survivor, Koh-Lanta Caramoan, was the first media outfit that filmed Survivor in 2008, followed by media outfits from Israel, Bulgaria and Serbia in 2009.

Koh-Lanta was shown in Europe with an estimated 12 million viewers.

A top executive of the Camarines Sur provincial government, who asked not be named because the negotiations are still ongoing, revealed that Survivor USA has been considering filming here starting 2011, until 2012.

He said the production crew of Survivor USA has searched many areas in the Philippines and found Caramoan the most ideal place for their filming because of the unique geographical features of the place and the available facilities that meet production standards.

Caramoan has become a favorite place for the Survivor shoot because of the variety in scenery and unique sites that catered to adventurous tourists, said Jovi Villareal, recreational officer of Gota Village Resort.

Ning Villanueva, provincial tourism officer, said the provincial government's hosting of Survivor brought in droves of foreign tourists, making Camarines Sur the most visited destination in 2009.

Citing records from the Bicol regional office of the Department of Tourism, Camarines Sur was the top tourist destination in the Philippines in the first nine months of 2009, with 1,022,092 visitors, of which 206,937 were foreign tourists.

Among the foreign tourists, Israel was the second highest number of arrivals after the US citizens.

Visitors from the United Kingdom, Australia and Japan also arrived in the province.

The regional revenue generated from tourism reached more than P1 billion, of which P0.7 billion was contributed by Camarines Sur.

Villareal said the local government-owned facility is within the 4,000-hectare national park being managed by the provincial government as agreed upon with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Some 2,000 hectares of this park has been declared a protected area being developed for eco-tourism purposes, he added.

He cited many unexplored sites like tiny lakes, subterranean passages and underwater caves in the small limestone islands here that could cater to the more daring and skilled adventurous tourists.

Within the eco-tourism area, small islands are scattered sporadically with plants and weed trees, at the base of which are a number of narrow beaches and coves accessible by boat or kayak, according to him.

On the fringes of the land within the Gota Village Resort, towering vertical limestone walls suitable for rock climbing abound while a newly discovered subterranean river awaits exploration.

The primary attraction of the Gota Village Resort’s tourist area is the scenic view, which is defined by its unique geologic configuration in the middle of a wide coastal marine environment.

According to a 1981 study of the Bureau of Mines and Geosciences, Caramoan exhibits the so-called karst topography.

This means a landscape defined by varied formations of limestone masses which were subjected to geologic processes that created vertical cliffs.

Euphi Peñano, resort manager, said the geologic features of the place highlighted the area’s natural tourism assets.

“As for the Survivor production coming back, they must be profiting from the scenery here that draw television viewers to their show,” he said.

bledzoe

January 16th, 2010, 04:57 PM

^^yehey!

bledzoe

January 16th, 2010, 05:05 PM

i hope this will compound the supposed benefits that we shall reap from Tourism Act...

ASEAN ‘open skies’ accord expected in April—Durano (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20100116-247688/ASEAN-open-skies-accord-expected-in-AprilDurano)
By Kristine L. Alave
Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 19:21:00 01/16/2010 Filed Under: Air Transport, Tourism, ASEAN

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines is to sign an "open skies" agreement with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in April, a pact that the Department of Tourism said would dramatically increase tourist arrivals in the country.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said the ASEAN member countries and the Philippines could sign the policy around April. The agreement, he noted in a statement, would liberalize air space among ASEAN member countries.

The open skies agreement, Durano explained, would encourage more airlines to land in the country by removing certain tariffs and add-on expenses, increasing flights and providing more options for passengers.

“We are taking positive steps towards the signing of the agreement, as the benefits of air space liberalization for the country signal a region-wide increase in cooperation and tourism activity,” he said.

Durano also noted that the open skies deal would mean greater trade between the Philippines and its ASEAN neighbors and innovations in the aviation industry.

“The sealing of this deal strengthens not only tourism but more so, economic relations between the country and our ASEAN counterparts. We see this as a welcome development, contributing to the growth of the airline industry through increased availability for more passengers.”

DoT officials said the Philippines was late in liberalizing its airline sector, compared to other ASEAN countries.

“Our neighbors in the region have seen the benefits of the open skies agreement, and we hope to replicate the same success here in the country, ” Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr. said.

He noted that Singapore and Malaysia, which were among the first to restructure their airline industry, have been reaping rewards. The two countries, Jarque said, have enjoyed robust tourism growth in the past years.

The DoT said it is prepared to host steady influx of domestic and foreign tourists in the coming years.

Rolando Cañizal, Director of Tourism Development Planning, said there has been an increase in interest and investments in the local tourism sector.

“Investments in hotels, resorts, and tourism-related establishments have continually progressed from the past years, which added to the country’s capacity to host more guests,” Cañizal he said.

In 2009, at least P36 billion poured into investments in tourism facilities and projects from the private sector, the DoT said. The projects, which will open between 2010 and 2014, are expected to generate 15,000 jobs and will provide 4,000 additional rooms.

juniordiscovery

January 17th, 2010, 03:51 PM

wino

January 17th, 2010, 10:22 PM

^^ malamang malugi lalo ang PAL!! haha mahal kasi sila sumingil

ang mag bebenefit jan Cebu Pacific - low cost carrier kasi

kalbongdad

January 18th, 2010, 12:54 PM

that is the good news about competition....

in_a_rush

January 18th, 2010, 06:11 PM

DOT reports P36B tourism investments in ‘09
By Lynda B. Valencia

MANILA, Jan. 16 (PNA) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) has listed P36 billion worth of endorsed investments composed of tourism-related facilities and establishments between January and November 2009, generating at least 15,000 jobs and 4,000 additional rooms.

“These projects mean strong investor confidence, more jobs and a gainful economy," Tourism Secretary Joseph 'Ace' Durano said, adding that tourism is bound to have a banner performance in the coming years.

Endorsed to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Board of Investments (BOI), the list is composed of projects which include the Eagle Entertainment City and Bagong Nayong Pilipino Entertainment City in Paranaque City; M Hotel in Binondo; Remington Hotel in Pasay City; Big Cedar Hotel in Malate, Manila; Microtel Inns and Suites in Pasig City; The Bayleaf Hotel Manila in Intramuros; Go Hotels-Cybergate in Mandaluyong City; Newport Entertainment and Commercial Center in Makati City;

Highlander Hotel and Resort in Nueva Vizcaya; Dagupan Doctors Villaflor Memorial Hospital and Dasoland: A Family Adventure Park in Pangasinan; Green Canyon Eco-tourism Park in Tarlac, Clark Wakeboard Camp in Angeles; Sheridan Beach Resort and Convention Center, A & A Hotel Special Tourism Zone, Cagdanao Resort, West Villa Resort, Cuyo Land Villa and El Nido Adventure Sports in Palawan;

Embarcadero de Legazpi Special Tourism Zone in Legazpi City; Akean Resorts in Aklan; Ilawod Estate Tourism Zone in Iloilo; Costa de Leticia Resort and Spa, Museum and Art Gallery, Marine Sports and Leisure Center, and Caracalla Spa in Cebu; and expansion of Garden Orchid Hotel Annex in Zamboanga.

A few of the listed facilities had their groundbreaking in mid-2009, while others are set to open between 2010 and 2014.

Durano likewise noted the strong diversity of these investments, which have been classified into Accommodations, Resorts, Medical Tourism facilities, Sports and Recreational facilities and Agri-Tourism facilities.

“Upon registration with the BOI, these tourism endorsed projects are eligible to avail of an income tax holiday for four to six years, and duty-free importation of selected capital equipment for operation of accommodations and facilities,” said Atty. Victoria Jasmin, director of the DOT Office of Tourism Standards.

The DOT urges the business community to invest in tourism estates, accommodation facilities, retirement villages, healthcare and wellness products and services, ecotourism and agri-tourism projects as a response to the global demand for an integrated development in the industry.(PNA)
scs/LBV

watcher09

January 19th, 2010, 03:15 PM

^^ malamang malugi lalo ang PAL!! haha mahal kasi sila sumingil

ang mag bebenefit jan Cebu Pacific - low cost carrier kasi

I don't think so! PAL has lost domestic market share dominance to Cebu Pacific, though, with their current promo rates, theirs are already at par if not lower with that of Cebu Pacific's. When I went to Mindanao last December, I chose PAL because they were giving lower rates. I'm now booking for my friends and I'm surprised, Cebu Pacific's rates are higher. Maybe in some destinations...

wino

January 19th, 2010, 08:37 PM

ruralvillage

January 20th, 2010, 04:43 AM

Tourism sector projects $3-billion windfall from MICE promotions (http://mb.com.ph/articles/239265/tourism-sector-projects-3billion-windfall-mice-promotions)
By BERNIE CAHILES-MAGKILAT
January 19, 2010, 4:58pm
Manila Bulletin (http://mb.com.ph/articles/239265/tourism-sector-projects-3billion-windfall-mice-promotions)

The country’s tourism sector sees a $3-billion windfall from the continued surge of the global market for meetings, incentive travel, conventions and exhibitions (MICE).

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said that while this amount ($3 billion) represents a mere one percent of the $300-billion MICE market worldwide, it is big enough to boost the country’s annual tourism receipts and compensate for any slump in the other industry sectors or market segments.

Durano issued this statement as visitor arrivals from crisis-affected countries threatened to dwindle, prompting the Department of Tourism (DoT) to look for other foreign markets and sectors that could fill up the gap.

He cited the MICE market as a stable source of foreign visitors because of its resiliency and year-round vigor, making it invulnerable to price fluctuations and seasonality.

Being mostly corporate and industry driven, this market is active all year round since MICE activities make up a necessary business and social function.

“Multinational companies, for example, can hardly do away with meetings involving their numerous executives in various countries.

We can, therefore, take advantage of our country’s position as a regional headquarters of many multinational firms and serve as host to these international corporate meetings that bring in hundreds, if not thousands, of visitors from all over the world, particularly Asia Pacific,” Durano explained.

The Philippines strategic location in the heart of the Southeast Asia can also make it a preferred choice for regional corporate events, including incentive travel, conventions and exhibitions, Durano added.

He said many of these events would now include marketing as their main objectives, especially incentive travel, industry conventions and trade exhibitions.

“In fact, incentive travel is now a popular reward, not only to a company’s employees, but also to its dealers and even loyal consumers. Worldwide, many corporate and product promos offer foreign trips as a marketing come-on to their target markets,” Durano said.

Likewise, industry and professional conventions are being used as a venue to introduce new products. These include breakthrough pharmaceutical products that are traditionally introduced to the medical profession via company-sponsored conventions in foreign countries, which form part of the marketing incentive.

RonnieR

January 20th, 2010, 04:59 AM

^^ I believe that Sec. Durano is doing a great job in Department of Tourism.

Maxxclip

January 20th, 2010, 09:37 AM

by Helen Flores

MANILA, Philippines - The Federation of Tourism Industries in the Philippines (FTIP) yesterday urged Congress to look into the implementation of the National Tourism Policy Act of 2009, claiming the Department of Tourism (DOT) has violated some of its provisions by failing to consult many accredited travel agencies when it implemented the law.

FTIP president Alejandra Clemente said the DOT violated the rights of representation of many accredited agencies when they were not properly consulted on the drafting of the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

It also claimed that the finished IRR went beyond the intent of the Tourism Act.

“The accredited tourism enterprises were not properly represented... There was already misrepresentation from the very beginning,” Clemente told The STAR.

She said many accredited agencies were also not able to participate in the selection of nominees to head the new DOT sub-agencies Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Duty Free Philippines Corp. (DFPC).

Clemente said the group is willing to discuss the issue with Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano.

She also asked the principal authors of the law, Sen. Richard Gordon and Bohol Rep. Ed Chato, to make their position on the issue known.

“I don’t know why the authors are very silent,” Clemente said.

The group threatened to question in court the legality of the IRR and the convening of the Tourism Congress last Nov. 25.

“We’re avoiding court cases, it is our last resort,” Clemente said.

President Arroyo signed the Tourism Act in May last year to make local Philippine tourism globally competitive.

RonnieR

January 21st, 2010, 07:50 AM

:cheers:
British & French tourists in top cruise ship visit RP
Posted on January 20th, 2010 under The Good Balita
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/MS-Spirit-of-Adventure.jpg
The famous cruise ship MS Spirit of Adventure has docked in the Philippines bringing in more than 300 British and French nationals to the country.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano hailed the ship’s arrival, saying, “Complementing our chartered flights, the cruise ship tours are fast becoming a competitive source of arrivals, bringing with it the high-spending segment from Europe, US and Asia.”

The DOT welcomed the guests with cultural performances on each port of call. “A festive welcome serves to let them know that they have reached Philippine shores, where the people are warm and wonderful, and the destinations equally so,” shared Eduardo Jarque Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions.

The cruise ship’s Master Captain Frank Allica also noted, “The reception is one of the grandest I have ever seen in all the places we have been. Our guests can’t wait to see more of this warm and welcoming country.”

The MS Spirit of Adventure, owned by Acromas Shipping Limited in England included the Philippines in its 16-day tour of Asia-– the Charm of the Exotic East Voyage.

The Berlin, the MS Spirit of Adventure was also touted the “Love Boat’’ for its romantic cruise tour that lures passengers to the exotic charms of Asia.

The Philippines had the longest itinerary in the tour, as the ship docked in four different ports of call which included Cebu, Boracay, Manila, and La Union. p>Upon reaching Manila, guests were treated to the Manila Old Town Tour which featured Intramuros, Manila Hotel and the Rizal Park. Other guests hiked off to Tagaytay to see the Taal Volcano.

After Manila, the luxury cruise liner proceeded to La Union for a tour of Baguio. The tourists were brought to a weaving school where students use hand-operated wooden looms.

The Baguio tour also introduced the Tam-awan Village which displayed century-old Igorot huts, Mines View Park for a panoramic sight-seeing of the summer capital, the Mansion House, Wright Park and Session Road to the guests.

In Cebu, the group was brought to a historical exploration of the city’s landmarks, shopping at Carbon Market and an Arts and Crafts tour, which included trips to factories of acoustic guitars, bandurias (Filipino mandolins), banjos, ukeleles, as well as handcrafted jewelry.

Some of the tourists also went to Bohol to see its eco-sites such as the Chocolate Hills and the Loboc River.

Dismal weather, however, prohibited the ship from docking at the pristine White Beach of Boracay where it was also scheduled for a stop.

Aside from the Philippines, the ship listed Malaysia, Brunei, Borneo, and Hong Kong in its 16-day cruise itinerary.
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/?p=10049

RonnieR

January 21st, 2010, 08:13 AM

Celebrating the Philippines’ most colorful festivals
Posted on January 20th, 2010 under Beauty of the Philippines

By Harold Geronimo

There’s no doubt that Filipinos are among the happiest people in the world. No matter how many times calamities hit the country, the Filipino’s pursuit for happiness remains and never changes. In fact, revelry and merrymaking continue in different parts of the archipelago as many provinces and cities celebrate their festivals month after month. Just as we start the year, three major festivals honoring the Santo Niño are held in Cebu, Iloilo and Kalibo. These festivals draw hundreds of thousands of local and international tourists every year.

There are more than a hundred fiestas being celebrated in the country yearly, and most of them are religious in nature. I’ve been to most of these festivals and all these joyous, colorful festivities make me more proud to be Filipino!
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Masskara-Festival.jpg
Masskara Festival [Jojie Alcantara]

Masskara Festival—Bacolod City
When it comes to colorful parades, Bacolod’s MassKara Festival definitely tops the list. This weeklong celebration in the capital city of Negros Occidental is highlighted by a street dancing competition of colorfully-masked dancers gyrating to the beat of Latin music. This is Bacolod’s version of Mardi Gras, which started during the sugar crisis in the early 80s, and the sad faces of the Negrenses were concealed by masks decorated with beads and colorful ornaments. MassKara came from the words mass, which means many, and kara, the Spanish term for faces. Thus, MassKara is a showcase of many faces that are smiling, making Bacolod as the Philippines’ City of Smiles since the 1970s.

http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Panagbenga-Festival.jpg
Panagbenga Festival

Panagbenga Festival—Baguio City

Held every February, Baguio City’s Panagbenga Festival is definitely a must-see and must-experience festivity in the country. Similar to Pasadena’s Rose Parade in the United States, this festival is highlighted by a parade of floats decorated with fresh flowers. It is also highlighted by a street dance, performed by dances clad in flower-inspired costumes inspired by the Bendian, a traditional Ibaloy dance of celebration in the Cordillera region. This month-long annual flower festival was created as a tribute to the city’s bountiful flower produce, and as the people’s way to rise up from the devastation of the 1990 Luzon earthquake that badly hit the city and claimed thousands of lives. Every year, the month of February becomes the busiest month for the City of Pines as thousands of foreign and local tourists visit this lovely city. This congestion of tourists extends up to the months of March and April as Baguio becomes one of the most visited places in the country during the summer season.

http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Ati-Atihan.jpg
Ati-Atihan [Mai Geronimo]

Ati-Atihan, Sinulog and Dinagyang Festivals

These January festivals are held to honor the feast of the Santo Niño or Child Jesus. The Ati-Atihan Festival of Kalibo, Aklan is known to be the Mother of All Philippine Festivals since it is one of the oldest festivals being celebrated in the country every year. It is also the wildest among Philippine fiestas as revelers paint their faces with black soot and wear outlandish costumes as they dance during the last three days of the two-week long festival. Sinulog Festival, on the other hand, is known to be the grandest Philippine festival celebrated by the Queen City of the South. Cebu becomes the central venue of Pinoy merrymaking during this time of the year. The dance ritual commemorates the Cebuanos’ pagan origin and their acceptance of Christianity. Likewise, the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City is both a religious and cultural festival as it commemorates the arrival of Malay settlers on Panay island and the subsequent selling of the island to them by the Atis (black people). These three festivals share their own unique cultural identities as they all shout Pit Senor!

http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Pahiyas-Festival.jpg
Pahiyas Festival

Pahiyas Festival—Lucban, Quezon
The 15th of May marks the celebration of Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, Quezon in honor of the patron saint of farmers, San Isidro de Labrador. The festival showcases a street of houses that are adorned with agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, as well as handicrafts and kiping, a rice-made decoration in different colors that are usually edible. Some local folks would fry or grill these kipings to serve to guests during the celebration. This is Lucban’s way of thanksgiving for the year’s bountiful harvests. The best decorated houses are being awarded every year.

http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Kadayawan-Sa-Dabaw.jpg
Kadayawan Sa Dabaw [Rhonson Ng]

Kadayawan Sa Dabaw
The Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival is an annual celebration in Davao City held every third week of August. The festival is a celebration of life and the Davaoenos’ thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, wealth of culture, bountiful harvests and the serenity of living. Dancers clad in colorful native costumes perform in the streets during the highlights of the celebration. The name Kadayawan is derived from the local friendly greeting madayaw, from the Bisaya term dayaw, meaning good, valuable or beautiful. During this weeklong festival, Davao City also showcases its popular local produce Durian which can be sold everywhere in the city.
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/?p=10052

Kintoy

January 21st, 2010, 12:17 PM

CNN recommends: Boracay windsurfing cup, Christmas in Manila

By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
(http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20100121-248631/CNN-recommends-Boracay-windsurfing-cup-Christmas-in-Manila)First Posted 17:59:00 01/21/2010

ILOILO CITY, Philippines—Boracay's International Funboard Cup and Manila's Christmas festivities have been named by Cable News Network (CNN) among the top suggested weekend destinations in the world for 2010.

The two events were the only ones from the Philippines that were included in the “52 Weekends: Go somewhere every week” posted at CNNGo.com, a division of the international news network CNN, which focuses on travel, lifestyle, and entertainment.

The international funboard competition in Boracay was listed for January 22-24 while Manila's Christmas festivities were suggested for December 24-26.

The destinations were recommended by experts around the world “for the best of the best weekends from January to December,” according to CNNGo.com.

Also included on the list were famous world events and destinations including the World Cup in South Africa, Australian Open in Melbourne, International Noodle Festival in Shanxi in China, Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, and Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

The short separate articles about the Philippine destinations were contributed by Estan Cabigas, a Filipino traveler and photographer who maintains the Ang Langyaw blog (www.langyaw.com).

The Boracay International Funboard Cup was cited as one of the biggest wind surfing events in Asia.

Aside from its famous beaches, Boracay was named as a destination to enjoy water and land-based activities, especially Bulabog beach on the other, windier side of the island, a favorite water sports destination.

The article also cited Boracay's international cuisine and vibrant nightlife along the eight-kilometer beach of the 1,032-hectare island.

It also suggests hotels according to one's budget and preference and other activities in Boracay including island-hopping, kite-boarding, hiking and horseback riding.

The CNNGo.com article also noted that December 24-26 this year would be better spent for the Christmas celebration in Manila.

“As soon as the '-ber' months commence, expect to hear carols on the airwaves and see Yuletide cheer in malls and homes. Manila’s traditional Xmas festivities are the perfect excuse to visit. Just don’t exclaim in wide-eyed wonder, 'Wow, a lighted Christmas tree and Santa figures in the middle of September,’” it said.

Kintoy

January 21st, 2010, 01:44 PM

the issue's cover is about Google & China

http://i877.photobucket.com/albums/ab335/kin_toy/photo-newsweek.jpg

sfo way sipyat

January 21st, 2010, 09:29 PM

^^ domestic maybe, but not as low as international carriers still
PAL has one of the most expensive seats in terms of international flights.. specially those in North America. If ASEAN has open skies established, other ASEAN international carries will benefit from it.. PAL not so much.. it's a lose situation for PAL. PAL only grew because of the monopoly it once had in the Philippines. not anymore.. they have to really lower their fares if they wanna be competitive :P

You're right!! talagang mahal ang pasahe ng PAL compared to other airlines from North America. Pareho lang naman na may stop over. There,s something wrong that PAL must be properly corrected to stay alive.Aside from their prices they must also develop their customer service especially to passengers connecting to the southern cities of the Philippines.

RonnieR

January 22nd, 2010, 05:44 AM

swatch69sg

January 22nd, 2010, 05:55 AM

I don't think so! PAL has lost domestic market share dominance to Cebu Pacific, though, with their current promo rates, theirs are already at par if not lower with that of Cebu Pacific's. When I went to Mindanao last December, I chose PAL because they were giving lower rates. I'm now booking for my friends and I'm surprised, Cebu Pacific's rates are higher. Maybe in some destinations...

I kinda agree with you. I just booked my flight SIN-MNL this March and mas lower pa ang Econolite Fare ng PAL from Cebu Pacific by 30 SGD. And to think that even Econolite passengers are now being offered with an in-flight meal.

Pero ang pinakamurang flight talaga from SIN-MNL ngayon is Zestair...aside from the 30 KG, may in-flight meal din sila. Yun nga langg pangit ng sked nila..they don't have flights everyday!

louklak NI

January 22nd, 2010, 05:44 PM

Visit Algeria

BQ_90ApfiCg

lOm1Fq3Mzxs

wino

January 22nd, 2010, 07:14 PM

bakit nasingit ang Algeria dito?

amigo32

January 23rd, 2010, 07:20 AM

naligaw?:D

bledzoe

January 23rd, 2010, 05:54 PM

^^ to promote their country...

bledzoe

January 23rd, 2010, 05:59 PM

RP birdwatching site is newest ASEAN Heritage Park (http://goodnewspilipinas.com/?p=10076)
Posted on January 21st, 2010 under The Good Balita

http://widner.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/imgp4693axf5.jpg

A popular birdwatching site, the Mt. Kitanglad Range Protected Area (MKRPA), has been declared as the 28th Association of SouthEast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Heritage Park. The park is home to Mt. Kitanglad, a dormant volcano touted as the fourth highest peak in the country. Also known as the mystical mountain, it has a thickly populated forest where some of the country’s well-known medicinal herbs grow.

The pronouncement was made at the 11th Annual Meeting of ASEAN ministers of environment where the participants reviewed the regions’ efforts on a number of issues, particularly those relating to environmental sustainability of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint.

“Coming at a time when the world is celebrating the year of ecological biodiversity, this recognition pushes us to strive even harder in preserving our natural wealth, and imbibe a ‘green’ consciousness,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

The country’s protected ecotourist area is also the abode of the endangered Philippine Eagle and rare winged creatures such as the McGregor’s Cuckoo Shrike, Elegant Tit, Streak-breasted Rhabdornis and Black-and-Cinnamon Fantail.

Following the objective of the ASEAN group of nations, the ASEAN Heritage Park ‘aims to establish a regional network of national protected areas conserving critical representative ecosystems in the said region.’

According to Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, “Mt. Kitanglad truly highlights the unique balance of having different cultures coexisting in an ecologically abundant area.”

The site is the ancestral domain of several tribes such as the Higaonon, Manobo, and Talaandig.

Accessible via plane or boat through the Cagayan de Oro terminal/port, the newly named ASEAN Heritage Park in Bukidnon is open to tourists, the deparment said.

Attorney Victoria Jasmin, Director for Tourism Standards, shared, “We have a 10-days/9-nights birdwatching package that includes a late afternoon camping in the area to see the rare Philippine Eagle.”

The Lower Eagle View Point and Higher Eagle View Point also offer sightings of the White-cheeked Bullfinch, Cinnamon Ibon, and Mountain White-Eye, Jasmin added.

Other adventure packages for Mt. Kitanglad include a three-day hike up its peak – a popular must-climb site of seasoned trekkers.

The MKRPA is the third ecotourist spot to become an ASEAN Heritage Park, joining two others which are Mt. Apo in Davao, the country’s highest peak and Mt. Iglit-Baco in Oriental Mindoro, the domain of the endangered Tamaraw.

The list includes 28 other destinations namely Tasek Merimbum in Brunei Darussalam, Preah Monivong National Park, and Virachey National Park in Cambodia; Leuser National Park, Kerinci Seblat National Park, and Lorentz National Park in Indonesia; Nam Ha National Biodiversity Conservation Area in Lao PDR; Kinabalu National Park, Mulu National Park, and Taman Negara National Park in Malaysia; Alaungdaw Kattapha National Park, Indawgy Lake Wildlife Santuary, Inlay Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, Khakaborazi National Park, and Meinmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary in Myanmar; Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve in Singapore; Ao Phangnga – Mu Koh Surin – Mu Koh, Similan Marina National Parks, Kaengkrachan Forest Complex, Khao Yai National Park, Tarutao National Park, Ba Be National Park in Thailand; Chu Mom Ray National Park, Hoang Lien Sa Pa National Park and Kon Ka Kinh National Park in Vietnam.

juniordiscovery

January 25th, 2010, 04:05 AM

Foreign visitors up in 2009 despite global recession -- BI

MANILA, Jan. 24 (PNA) -- The number of foreigners who visited the Philippines in 2009 still went up compared with the previous year despite the global economic recession, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

In a report to Immigration Commissioner Marcelino Libanan, BI Immigration Regulation chief Edgardo Mendoza said that a total of 5,965,078 foreigners arrived in the country from January to December 2009, slightly higher than the 5,927,128 who came in 2008.

Mendoza said tourists totaling more than two million accounted for the bulk of the foreign visitors, and most of them were 'Balikbayans' who numbered nearly 700,000.

The others were holders of the various types of immigrant and non-immigrant visas that were issued to them either by the BI or the Philippine consulates abroad.

Upon receiving the report, Libanan said he was pleased that foreigners did not shy away from the country even in the face of the global financial slowdown.

He said the BI will continue to do its part in helping the government attract more foreign visitors by liberalizing its immigration rules, policies and procedures to make it easier for foreigners to stay or do business in the Philippines.

The BI chief added that he hopes Congress will finally pass a new immigration law for the country that will replace the 1940 Immigration Act which he described as “antiquated and no longer attuned to present realities.”

Among the programs that the BI has launched to lure foreign businessmen is the Special Visa for Employment Generation (SVEG) or job visa.

The said visa entitles the holder to stay indefinitely in the Philippines provided that he maintains investment in a business enterprise that employs 10 or more Filipino workers.

Statistics show that Americans, numbering 679,312, topped the list of the foreigners who arrived last year, followed by 523,145 Koreans, 331,279 Japanese, 225,577 Chinese, 140,098 Australians, and 126,001 Britons. (PNA)
scs/FMB

source: http://www.positivenewsmedia.com

absinthe_888

January 25th, 2010, 06:57 AM

Durano sabotages Tourism Act (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=543577&publicationSubCategoryId=66)
DEMAND AND SUPPLY By Boo Chanco (The Philippine Star) Updated January 25, 2010 12:00 AM

Somehow, I am not surprised. When private sector industry leaders complained to me about how Tourism Secretary Ace Durano is doing everything to sabotage the implementation of the Tourism Act, I figured it was to be expected. Mr Durano never liked the law to begin with. He never supported its passage by Congress and he is just doing everything he can to prove that the law will not deliver on its promises for the tourism industry.

The law, principally authored by Dick Gordon and Bohol Rep Ed Chato, was designed to showcase a private sector led effort to promote tourism with government providing the infrastructure and the incentives to make things happen. Among other things, the law provides for a tourism promotion effort that builds on past efforts and does not change every time a new administration takes over.

The new law rationalizes current government bureaucracy in tourism so that we don’t have a tourism authority that works in a direction different from the tourism department. Most important of all, it sets standards of service that is as close to world class as possible so that a 5-star rating will not vary from province to province.

The spirit of the new law calls for a very strong private sector involvement in the formulation of policies and in the implantation of programs. Probably, that is what the politician in Durano dislikes. As a result, the private tourism entrepreneurs are now complaining that Durano has misused powers in the law to make midnight appointments among other things. Rather than streamlining the tourism bureaucracy as called for by the law, Durano was said to have bloated it some more.

What the private sector finds objectionable is the way Durano rushed the appointment of members of the Tourism Board. Given that the administration is about to bow out (hopefully) and the term of office of the appointees is for three years, anyone with a sense of delicadeza will give the next government the right to name the people they will need to work with.

There is no real urgency in filling up positions as Durano claims, because the time between now and June 30 should be used to do extensive consultations with the various private sector entities involved in the tourism trade. As it happened, there was no real consultation and as a result, there is wide dissension in the industry created by the divisive actions of Durano. That’s obviously counterproductive to the national effort to promote our tourism industry.

The legitimacy of the Tourism Congress called by Durano is being questioned. One private sector association, in a letter to Durano, asked: Who are entitled to be members of the Tourism Congress? They are complaining that only 58 persons were invited to the Congress even as there are 1,360 enterprises that qualify under the definition provided by the new law. They are also questioning the implementing rules drafted by Durano which among others, made representation in the Congress geographical rather than sectoral as provided for by the law.

The private sector representatives are now asking for the Congressional Oversight Committee chaired by Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, to look into how Durano is implementing the law. The way it stands, the next tourism secretary may have his hands tied by the machinations of Durano. His cronies will be in a position to damage the tourism effort long after he is gone. Sen Gordon should take a break from his campaign to save his pet measure.

Oh well… we can’t expect Durano to have any sense of decency in the matter of midnight appointments. His own boss desperately wants to appoint the next Supreme Court Justice even if there is a clear prohibition for her to make that appointment. A decent person would leave that power to her successor. Then again, this is an indecent regime and we just have to suffer a few months more.

RonnieR

January 26th, 2010, 06:42 AM

Asia Pacific News
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/southeastasia/view/1032958/1/.html

Apl.de.Ap to help promote Philippines to the young and hip crowd
By Channel NewsAsia's Philippine Correspondent Christine Ong | Posted: 26 January 2010 0031 hrs

MANILA: International recording artist Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas has teamed up with the Philippine's tourism department to help promote the country to the young and hip crowd.

The award-winning hip hop artist is doing this through a music video which was created in collaboration between the Philippines' Department of Tourism and MTV.

Apl.de.Ap, singer, Black Eyed Peas, said: "When I was recording my solo album "You Can Dream", I wanted to represent where I came from. I wanted to write something about the Philippines and I wanted to encourage all the Filipino-Americans to come visit Philippines.

"And in that way, when a lot of people come here, it creates jobs and opportunities for the people in the Philippines, and that's when 'Take You to the Philippines' came about."

Aboard the iconic tricycle, the Filipino-American artist takes the viewer to the Philippines' famed tourist destinations such as the famous white sandy beaches in Boracay and Palawan, as well as other exciting tourist spots in Cebu, Bohol, and of course, his beloved hometown Pampanga.

He added: "We have a beautiful culture and I want to be able to share that all over the world. And also, we have a lot of beautiful islands and places to go to and I want to share that all over the world, for people to see."

Over three million tourists visited the Philippines last year and the Department of Tourism hopes that their new and hip global campaign will help attract more young adventure travellers to explore the country's 7,000 islands.

More than 70 per cent of the country's tourists are young travellers aged 18 to 35. They are among the most avid travellers and shoppers in the world. And despite the calamities that struck northern Philippines last year, the tourism department is confident of more visitors this year.

Eduardo Jarque Jr., Undersecretary, Department of Tourism, said: "The beauty of the Philippines is never concentrated on one. Unlike some areas wherein if they have a calamity, it's close shop. When there's a calamity somewhere, we have 7,107 islands, so somewhere, the sun still shines.

"So we're lucky to be in an archipelago. So when one thing closes temporarily, a lot of other places are open."

The department is promoting adventure trips like wakeboarding in Camarines Sur and surfing in Siargao, to reach its target of five million tourists by the end of 2010. - CNA/vm

RonnieR

January 26th, 2010, 06:56 AM

Guys, do you know that the Dancing Inmates in Cebu is now a "tourist" attraction?

I have yet to see it personally :)

Latest news : This is It
http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/852/genphoto1hiresq.jpg
The dancing inmates of the Cebu Provincial Jail perform with pop superstar Michael Jackson’s choreographer Travis Payne (center) and dancers Daniel Celebre and Dreis Reid in a new video which was uploaded on YouTube yesterday by Sony Entertainment. Payne and his crew spent two days last week at the jail to record the dance, which involved 1,200 inmates clad in black ‘This is it’ shirts and orange prison jeans. The video is part of the launch of Jackson’s ‘This is it’ DVD.
http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=543996&publicationSubCategoryId=63

Mr. Sandman

January 26th, 2010, 08:13 AM

^^^^^^

<object width="580" height="360"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mKtdTJP_GUI&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mKtdTJP_GUI&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="580" height="360"></embed></object>

mAiNsTrEaMhunter

January 26th, 2010, 11:11 AM

Guys, do you know that the Dancing Inmates in Cebu is now a "tourist" attraction?

I have yet to see it personally :)

i thought you knew it all along sir @ron?! :D:nuts:

RonnieR

January 26th, 2010, 11:13 AM

i thought you knew it all along sir @ron?! :D:nuts:

I knew it but I haven't seen it...plan to visit Cebu again during Holy Week. I might drop by. Do you know if I have to book if I want to visit? I heard that there is a schedule for dance show of the inmates.

mAiNsTrEaMhunter

January 26th, 2010, 11:17 AM

^^
personally i haven't been there yet. too far away from where i live and work. its far from the city center actually.

i guess you might as well inquire it at cebu thread sir @ron. albeit most of my fellows there know exactly when and how frequent do they perform. ;)

RonnieR

January 26th, 2010, 11:20 AM

^^ thanks

RonnieR

January 27th, 2010, 10:29 AM

FLOW, show at PACGOR THEATER

http://www.pagcor.ph/entertainment/images/mediaplayer2/flow.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3653/3379296560_4ef32002af_o.jpg

http://www.blog.pagcor.ph/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/flow-pagcor.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3608/3378478173_c9f2e4df0d.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3638/3379297946_3c117e6953_o.jpg

http://www.blog.pagcor.ph/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/flow-image1.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/3379298470_e64631a6e3_o.jpg
http://www.annalyn.net/2009/03/23/flow-now-showing-at-the-pagcor-grand-theater/http://www.pagcor.ph/entertainment/shows-majorshows.html

^^guys, I've watched the show, FLOW, last Friday, Jan. 22, 2010. It was a combination of Filipino dancers, singers, Chinese acrobats, Spanish flamenco dancers, ballroom dancers, tap dancers. :) I learned that the male and female foreign dancers came from Cuba.

juniordiscovery

January 27th, 2010, 04:27 PM

RP forges stronger tourism business at ATF

ANILA, Jan. 22 (PNA) -- The Philippines is all-set for its strong participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Tourism Forum (ATF) in Brunei Darussalam from January 23 to 28, an event expected to welcome over 1,600 delegates from some 400 tourism organizations and over 400 international buyers and international media.

The ATF is a cooperative regional effort to promote the ASEAN region as one tourist destination.

This annual event involves all the tourism industry sectors of the 10 member nations of ASEAN: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said, “This year marks numerous milestones in the industry, especially positive and fruitful relations of the tourism industry stakeholders with their counterparts in Southeast Asia.”

Under the theme ‘ASEAN - The Heart of Green’, the ATF 2010 is set to echo the success of ATF in the previous years in promoting tourism in the region, and more importantly, in advancing 2010’s green theme in promoting responsible environmental and social practices in tourism-related businesses.

“The Department is optimistic in successful sales missions and fruitful business appointments in this significant event. The countries’ proximity to each other encourages travel within the whole region,” Durano added.

With a three-day intensive business exchange at the TRAVEX 2010 as an integral component of ATF, members of the private sector anticipate an increase in confirmed bookings to the Philippines for the year with a stronger focus on our nature and ecotourism sites.

Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, Eduardo Jarque Jr. said “The Philippines is a multi-faceted destination that entices travelers from all over the world. Aside from eco-adventure sites, the country is blessed with a rich history and diverse culture.”

The country’s delegation is composed of prime tourism establishments and the biggest players in the industry, namely; Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort, Annset Holidays, Inc., The Bellevue Manila, Microtel Inns & Suites, Linden Suites, Hyatt Hotel & Casino Manila, Waterfront Hotels & Casinos, Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa, Quantum Hotels & Resorts, Shangri-la's Mactan Resort and Spa, and The Manila Hotel., Southeast Asian Airlines (Seair, T.R.I.P.S. Inc., Blue Horizons Travel & Tours, Inc., Golden Sky Travel & Tours.

Reports showing a notable increase in the influx of tourists from our Asian neighbors has been evident since the promotion of regional cooperation in tourism.

Tourism leaders are also pushing for a common ASEAN visa, which further promotes ease-of-access to all member countries; and the open skies pact that liberalizes air policies from within the region.

These are among the positive changes that would further boost tourism traffic and add to the economic growth of Southeast Asia. (PNA)
vcs/LOR

source: positivenewsmedia.com

RonnieR

January 28th, 2010, 11:08 AM

Survivor’ won’t desert Caramoan:cheers:

By Juan Escandor Jr.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 21:57:00 01/27/2010

Filed Under: Tourism, Television, Government

AGAIN, “SURVIVOR ISRAEL” will rent the whole Gota Village Resort, which is owned and operated by the local government, in Ilawod, Caramoan, Camarines Sur, to film two editions of “Hisardot (Survivor).”

Jimmy Binyamini, production manager, cited “best place, good people and unique sites” as reasons for the comeback and filming three straight times.

Last year, one edition of “Hisardot” was shot and shown until last month on Israeli national television Channel 10.

This time, the shooting will start on Feb. 28, while filming will end in late May or early June.

The no-celebrity shoot will last 40 days and the celebrity edition, 30 days, excluding the 45-day pre-production to prepare equipment, props and sites, according to Binyamini.

Adventure site

Aside from promoting the adventure appeal of the Caramoan Islands throughout Israel, “Hisardot” will employ some 200 Filipino workers to assist the 120 production members, Binyamini said. “Caramoan is a great adventure site ideal to our show,” he said.

“Hisardot” has two parts—the “reality” and games to test the participants’ wits and survivor instincts. Like castaways on an island, they will be exposed to the cameras under very primitive conditions round-the-clock for 40 days.

“Hisardot” is actually the second media outfit of “Survivor” to film their editions on small islands strewn northeast of Caramoan, facing the island-province of Catanduanes.

The French Survivor, “Koh-Lanta Caramoan,” filmed its edition in 2008, followed by media outfits from Israel, Bulgaria and Serbia in 2009. “Koh-Lanta” was shown in Europe to an estimated 12 million viewers.

A top executive of the provincial government, who asked not to be named because negotiation was still ongoing, revealed that “Survivor USA” would also be filmed here next year until 2012. Its production crew searched many areas in the Philippines and found Caramoan the most ideal place for filming because of its unique geographical features and available facilities that meet production standards.

Ning Villanueva, provincial tourism officer, said Camarines Sur’s hosting of “Survivor” had brought in droves of foreign tourists, making it the most visited destination in the Philippines last year.

Records from the Department of Tourism office in Bicol showed that in the first nine months last year, 1,022,092 visitors came to the province, 206,937 of them foreigners. Americans comprised the biggest number of arrivals, followed by Israelis, British, Australians and Japanese.

Tourism revenues in the region reached more than P1 billion, of which P700 million came from Camarines Sur.

Protected area

Caramoan’s variety of sceneries and unique sites cater to the adventurous spirit, said Jovi Villareal, recreational officer of Gota Village. The resort is inside a 4,000-hectare national park being managed by the provincial government as agreed upon with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Half of the area is protected and being developed for ecotourism, Villareal said.

The park has many unexplored sites, such as small tiny lakes, subterranean water passages and underwater caves in the small limestone islands. Islets are scattered sporadically and swept by plants and weed trees, and offer narrow beaches and coves accessible by boat or kayak, he said.

On the fringes are towering limestone walls suitable for rock climbing.

Geologic configuration

The primary attraction is the scenic view of a unique geologic configuration in the middle of a wide coastal marine environment.

Caramoan exhibits the so-called karst topography, according to a 1981 study of the Bureau of Mines and Geosciences. This means a landscape defined by a varied formation of limestone cliffs created through geologic processes.

“As for the “Survivor” production coming back, they must be profiting from the sceneries here that draw television viewers to their show,” said Euphi Peñano, the resort manager.

jhunix

January 28th, 2010, 12:09 PM

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/1899/20539132247393549610402.jpg (http://img695.imageshack.us/i/20539132247393549610402.jpg/)

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/9981/20539132247457551210402.jpg (http://img163.imageshack.us/i/20539132247457551210402.jpg/)

http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/7186/20539132247465551410402.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/i/20539132247465551410402.jpg/)
Davao Deca Wakeboard

:cheers::cheers::cheers:

kevinb

January 28th, 2010, 08:36 PM

^^ :cheers:

How's the wakeboard facilities in Cavite and Subic? Constructions still on-going? Wow. Biglang nagsulputan ang wakeparks ah.:D

RonnieR

January 29th, 2010, 07:18 AM

RP tourism gets media boost for 2010 travel season

by Patrick Camara Ropeta, ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau | 01/29/2010 12:16 PM

The outlook for Philippine tourism looks promising after it received a string of good publicity from online and print media, boosting the country’s profile at the start of 2010.

Following its inclusion in the “25 Best New Travel Destinations in the World” in National Geographic magazine, the Philippines was again featured in 3 other publications, namely: Selling Long Haul Magazine, TIME Asia, and CNNgo.com.

"The wave of publicity helps usher in a good year for tourism. The optimism of the foreign media reinforces our image as a desirable destination," said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano, in a statement released by the Department of Tourism.

"Fascinating"

The January issue of Selling Long Haul magazine, a trade publication for the travel industry in Britain and Ireland, features the Philippines alongside popular destinations like Bali, New Zealand and Bermuda.

In a 3-page article, the magazine recommends the Philippines for its "fascinating mix of Asian and western culture, pristine powdery beaches and stunning landscapes."

It lists a number of attractions that may appeal to travelers, including the cosmopolitan lifestyles of Manila and Cebu, the colonialism of Vigan, the adventures of Palawan, and the beauty of Taal, Mayon, and Chocolate Hills.

The monthly magazine also highlights the Philippines as one of the best destinations for bird watching and diving.

"Beguiling"

Manila is described as "beguiling and reinvigorating for even the most world-weary" in the January issue of TIME Asia, one of the most respected publications in the world.

The 3-page feature also lists a number of attractions in the capital city, including the historic district of Intramuros, cultural museums, local delicacies, music venues, and souvenir shops.

It also recommends an out-of-town trip to the beaches and farms of El Nido in the island of Palawan.

A must experience

The Philippines is included twice in the list of ‘52 Best Weekends of 2010’, created by CNNgo.com as a travel guide for every weekend of the year.

The travel website, part of the CNN group, recommends the Philippines for the Boracay International Funboard Cup in January, and the nationwide Christmas celebrations in December.

It highlights the Boracay event as one of the biggest windsurfing competitions in the world, attracting travelers and enthusiasts to the island, besides the beaches, culture, and accommodation and water sports on offer.

It also considers the Philippine Yuletide season as the world's longest Christmas celebration, an experience not to be missed. It focuses on the Filipino spirit that creates a positive atmosphere, particularly at this time, as demonstrated by jolly carolers, elaborate festive decorations, social gatherings and special events, as well as through warm and friendly hospitality.

The compilation includes other interesting events in destinations like Australia, Japan, Nepal, Canada and Hong Kong.

Good Publicity

The Department of Tourism expects more travelers to visit the Philippines following the renewed interest it has received from the media. They hope to build from the good publicity and continue to promote the country through advertising, special offers, trade shows, and cultural programs.

They also believe that the country is ready to cater for more travelers, and is encouraging all Filipinos to help in raising its profile around the globe.

Secretary Durano explains: “The entire industry is more than ready to accommodate the influx of guests. We urge all Filipinos, not just the media, to commit themselves to uplifting the country’s identity to the international community.”
as of 01/29/2010 12:16 PM

wino

January 29th, 2010, 10:59 AM

http://emag.sellinglonghaul.com/showmag.php?mid=rtwthd#/page38/

RonnieR

January 29th, 2010, 04:54 PM

'Feel the warmth' in South-East Asia

Friday, January 29, 2010

Catherine Deshayes

http://www.themovechannel.com/news/dffe2f19-f5f0/

A brand new tourist campaign has been introduced in South East Asia in a bid to attract more tourists from Australia, India, USA and the UK - so just what is the 10-member Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) rolling out...

ASEAN consists of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Burma, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The new campaign, entitled ‘South-East Asia: feel the warmth,' is focused on a new promotional website SoutheastAsia.org and both will work to emphasize the warmth of Southeast Asia's hospitality and climate and the diversity of the region's cultural attractions and tourism activities.

The campaign is hoping to entice new international visitors to the countries following a fall of around four per cent in these visitor numbers last year as a result of the credit crunch.

The UN World Tourism Organisation said last week that international tourist arrivals should increase 3.0 to 4.0 per cent in 2010 after a difficult year.

Mainly targeting tourists from markets such as Australia and India, as well as further afield in Britain, Hong Kong and North America, the campaign will also be used as a tool to fight poverty for the poorer members of ASEAN.

ASEAN Tourism Association chairman Felix Cruz says the initiative will promote travel to multiple destinations in South-East Asia.

His Excellency Pehin Dato Yahya, Brunei's Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, told ASEAN Tourism Forum delegates and media that the new campaign had been built on four principles: "First, the fact that 'Southeast Asia' has greater recognition in international source markets than 'ASEAN'. Second, the trust that online consumers now put in meta-search tools and user-generated content. Third, the importance of authenticity and 'warmth' in travelers' decision making processes. And fourth, the tremendous opportunities that Southeast Asia offers to visitors who are interested in exploring niche themes such as culture, adventure, shopping, ecotourism, island holidays, train travel, spa, culinary experiences, river and sea cruises, and much more."'

As part of the roll-out, the ASEAN Tourism Association has agreed to establish an ASEAN Tourism Marketing Centre, initially within the ASEAN Competitiveness Enhancement (ACE) project in Bangkok. This centre will build awareness of SoutheastAsia.org and handle consumer queries.

RonnieR

January 29th, 2010, 07:02 PM

Dirtiest Hotels - Asia
(based on TripAdvisor traveler reviews)

* 1. Phi Phi Don Chukit Resort, Ko Phi Phi Don, Thailand
* 2. Raj Residency, Chennai (Madras), India
* 3. Goldkist Beach Resort, Singapore, Singapore
* 4. Mahkota Hotel Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia
* 5. Centaur Hotel, IGI Airport, New Delhi, India
* 6. Tatami Hampton Hotel, Hong Kong, China
* 7. Pearl of the Pacific Boracay Resort & Spa, Boracay, Philippines
* 8. First Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
* 9. Seri Costa Hotel-Resort, Melaka, Malaysia
* 10. Royal Peacock Hotel, Singapore, Singapore

http://www.tripadvisor.com/DirtyHotels-g2

ruralvillage

January 31st, 2010, 12:22 AM

Palawan: The Last Frontier (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/241063/palawan-the-last-frontier)
By JACKY LYNNE A. OIGA
Manila Bulletin (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/241063/palawan-the-last-frontier)
January 30, 2010, 7:59pm
Palawan - Underground River

With an astonishing mix of pristine dive sites, vertiginous cliffs and idyllic islands and beaches, Palawan is once again being hailed as one of the top 10 best destinations for elite travelers in China. Initiated by Ctrip.com, China’s leading and trusted online travel agency and popular high-end travel glossy Elite Traveler, the polling for top overseas destinations of 2009 gathered a total of 4,340,122 valid votes through Internet voting, emails, fax, and snail mail.

Reaffirming the distinction of being the most sought-after destination for the Chinese market, the country continues to pride itself with natural wonders and eco tourism sites. The Palawan Underground River has also been continually in the top list of the New7Wonders of Nature online poll, and is now officially the country’s bet for the final stage which will be held in 2011.

Palawan’s interior charm, although difficult to penetrate with thick jungle mountains and strikingly sharp limestone rock faces, boasts of ecotourism sites such as: El Nido and its towering marble cliffs and white sand beaches; the Underground River in Puerto Princesa where tourists can take a boat trip under limestone cliffs and sepulchral chambers along a subterranean river; Cayangan Lake in Coron, hidden lagoon where you scramble uphill to a dazzling volcanic lake; and the Tubbataha Reef Marine Park.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano stressed, “Receiving this recognition for one of our carefully protected eco-tourism sites is indeed a great milestone ushering for more positive news in tourism at the onset of the year.”

“More than promoting our destinations to travelers, we aim to raise awareness on the preservation and protection of our natural wonders through responsible travel,” added Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr.

The list of 10 Top destinations include the Pyramids of Egypt; the Gold Coast of Australia; Masai Mara in Kenya; Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand, the cosmopolitan city of Paris, France; Jungfrau in Switzerland; beach destination of Maldives; Disney World in Orlando, USA, and Bali Island in Indonesia.

Representatives and travel agencies from more than 30 countries and regions were present at the grand awarding ceremonies held in the Radisson Plaza Xing Guo Hotel in Shanghai, China.

Accepting the award was Gerry Panga, Tourism Attaché for DoT Shanghai. “We are pressed to maintain the Philippines’ position as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, through our intensified marketing programs to promote our country’s treasures to the nature-loving Chinese travelers.”

On the other hand, according to Third Quarter Industry Report of the Department of Tourism, China remains as the country’s third largest source market for tourists. The North East Asian market accounted for the bulk of the total foreign tourists at 59%, with the Chinese and Taiwanese arrivals posting a share of 23% and 16%, respectively.

the glimpser

January 31st, 2010, 03:19 AM

The new Manila Hotel amazes :banana::banana::banana:!!!

Manila Hotel gets its sexy back

By Tina Arceo-Dumlao
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 19:43:00 01/30/2010

MANILA, Philippines—For a long while there, the Grand Dame let herself go.

The historic Manila Hotel, which hosted such familiar names as General Douglas MacArthur, the Beatles and His Royal Highness Prince Charles, did not invest enough in the daily maintenance work and grand multimillion-peso changes that would have allowed it to retain its appeal and keep up with changing customer tastes.

And so corporate clients, as well as leisure travellers who could no longer stay on nostalgia alone, gradually left and transferred their considerable business to the more modern luxury hotels that now crowd the Makati and Ortigas central business districts.

But as the country’s first five-star hotel moves closer to its 100th birthday, Manila Hotel is getting itself back into serious shape to lure them back in.

The first order of business was to invest in the long-delayed renovation of the

98-year-old hotel, and the new owners of the hotel led by businessman Emilio T. Yap have opened up their wallets and let go of millions to see that those renovations bring Manila Hotel to the 21st century.

Renovations started in the last quarter of 2008, starting with Mabuhay Palace, the Manila Hotel’s Chinese restaurant. Sweeping improvements of the pool, garden and guest rooms followed in the first quarter of 2009, then the spa and health club in the second quarter of 2009.

The rooms in the older main building were refurbished while those in the Tower section underwent full renovation. All 500 rooms will be touched by the renovation.

“Our renovations around the hotel revolve around one objective: further elevating our lofty standards to create an inimitable hotel experience,” Manila Hotel President Marcelo S. Ele Jr. told the Inquirer.

“As we near our 100th year, our resolve to deftly balance tradition and innovation—and to make that fusion apparent in our outlets and amenities—is stronger than before,” added Manila Hotel General Manager Leon Keekstra, “We are, after all, the country’s first five-star hotel. And the legacy of service and luxury that we have preserved throughout the years will get better and better with time.”

The changes go all the way to the amenities and features of the guest rooms. These include a waterproof television in the bathroom, L’Occitane bathroom essentials, and a walk-in shower. For those who cannot leave business behind, high speed Internet access is available.

Keekstra said the renovation at such a grand scale was made more difficult by the need to keep intact much of what makes the Manila Hotel unique.

At one time, the Manila Hotel on Roxas Blvd. was the standard of opulence and the essence of Manila. And traces of those bygone days can still be found in abundance, such as the new and improved grand lobby—with its original Amorsolos and chandeliers of expensive capiz, crystals and brass—and the Filipinana-themed suites with a perfect view of the famed Manila Bay sunset that have appealed to such luminaries as author Ernest Hemingway, astronaut Neil Armstrong and actor Marlon Brando.

“As a testament to our legacy of luxury complemented by genuine Filipino hospitality, we are now undergoing major renovations to keep up with society’s demanding needs,” Keekstra said, “This transformation is not easy, especially when the original one is a masterpiece in itself.”

“We therefore make sure that as we complement Manila Hotel with the convenience and modernity of the present times, we continue to preserve our rich history and the elegance of the past. Further, we are in a constant quest to elevate our level of service, ultimately treating every guest as royalty,” he added.

That the investments are coming in at a time of great global economic uncertainty confounds many observers. Because while others are cutting down costs, the management of Manila Hotel is spending on renovations and new amenities.

Ele said, however, that these investments would pay off in the end.

“We are optimistic about the market and we believe that our guests deserve the very best. This ultimately makes all of the improvements worth it. Our guests can expect that this is just the beginning,” Ele said, “The all-new Manila Hotel will be a landmark in Asia that will rank alongside the world’s finest hotels such as Raffles in Singapore, The Ritz in Paris and The Sukhothai in Bangkok.”

“Manila Hotel is not here to compete directly with the other hotels. We are here to create a category of our own. Besides, Manila Hotel will not be regarded as the Grand Dame and considered part of the patrimony of the country for nothing,” he added.

Now all the Manila Hotel hopes for is that travelers will go and see how it is getting its sexy back.

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5459/pic01310411210452.jpg
MANILA Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1912, is out to win back old clients and reel in new ones.

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/773/pic01310413140048.jpg
All guest rooms of the hotel will have a new look and feel.

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/3120/pic01310411590760.jpg
THE HOTEL’S renovations started with the Mabuhay Palace.

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/392/pic01310412350659.jpg
THE CHAMPAGNE Room, with that Old World Europe feel, remains one of Manila Hotel’s most popular restaurants.

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/2897/pic01310413510466.jpg
Enjoy cocktails at the Sea Breeze.

RonnieR

January 31st, 2010, 06:11 AM

Maggie Koerth-Baker
http://www.boingboing.net/2010/01/29/philippine-island-qu.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+boingboing%2FiBag+(Boing+Boing)

POSTED AT 8:47 AM January 29, 2010
Philippine island qualifies its way to a "World's Largest" title
:cheers:
http://www.boingboing.net/Taal_Volcano_satellite_image.jpg
Taal_Volcano_satellite_image

Qualifiers are a lot of fun. Example: Greenland is the world's largest island. The world's largest lake is the Caspian Sea.

But the world's largest island on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island?

Then the title goes to Volcan Point in the Philippines. Treehugger has a great series of zoom-in photos that show you how that complicated geological title was won.€

juniordiscovery

January 31st, 2010, 06:32 AM

juniordiscovery

January 31st, 2010, 06:34 AM

Airport restrictions hurting Boracay tourism

FLYING TO THE WORLD-FAMOUS Boracay Island for a weekend getaway in one of its many resorts used to be a fast, convenient and affordable experience for hundreds of thousands of foreign and local tourists each year.

Up until the third quarter of last year, visitors could fly from Manila to nearby Caticlan airport in as little as 35 minutes, take a short ferry ride to the island’s white sand beaches, and check into a hotel room within an hour and a half of leaving the metropolis.

All this changed when aviation authorities imposed flight restrictions on Caticlan airport after a string of aircraft accidents and “near misses.” That left only high-end niche carrier Southeast Asian Airline as the sole operator to the gateway of Boracay.

More affordable flights operated by PAL Express, Cebu Pacific and Zest Air—all of which charged cheaper fare—had to be diverted to Kalibo Airport which is a two-hour land trip away from Caticlan.

“The effects of this flight diversions really hit the local tourism industry badly,” said Ike Guanio, who is the chief operating officer of Boracay’s sprawling Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club.

“At one point, [reservation] cancellations [for local resort hotels] reached as high as 70 percent,” he added. “We were all affected.”

In an interview with the Inquirer, Guanio explained that a large number of tourists who visit Boracay Island do so during weekends, flying in on Friday afternoons or Saturday mornings, and returning to Manila or Cebu on Sunday afternoons.

The limited operations of Caticlan airport—which forced most airlines to fly tourists in via Kalibo—had turned off many potential travelers, putting a dampener on the island’s multimillion-peso tourism industry.

“Time is precious for weekend tourists,” Guanio said. “They don’t want to spend half of Saturday getting to Boracay and half of Sunday getting out of Boracay.”

“Right now, it has become really inconvenient for people to come to Boracay, especially if they fly in via Kalibo,” he said, pointing to the approaching peak summer travel season. “We need Caticlan to resume operations to restore, or even improve, tourist traffic.”

Over the long term, what is needed is for Caticlan airport’s 900-meter runway to be extended to at least 1,800 meters for it to be able to accommodate the Airbus A320 aircraft.

For the short term, a 50-meter-high hill on one end of the runway has to be reduced in size. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap), the hill prevents larger turboprop aircraft from flying in and out of the airport.

The challenge was taken up by the the Caticlan International Airport Development Corp. (CIADC), a consortium majority-owned by businessman George Yang, more famously known for bringing the McDonald’s fastfood chain to the country.

With a P2.5-billion bid, CIADC secured a 25-year build-operate-transfer (BOT) deal to extend the runway and build a new terminal for the airport.

Recently, however, the deal has come under intense attack from critics who claim that the airport expansion will adversely affect the environment on Boracay Island, which is separated form Caticlan by a deep channel.

In particular, critics of the deal have presented to the media one environment official who claimed that the development plan would eventually cause Boracay’s white sand beaches to be eroded.

In several interviews made with local stakeholders, however, another motive has emerged for the opponents of the Caticlan airport expansion: property speculation.

“There’s another group that’s pushing for the development of an international airport on Carabao Island,” said Aklan lawmaker Florencio Miraflores. “It’s just a proposal [at this point], but it’s being aggressively marketed as an alternative project.”

Along with other local officials, Miraflores believes that business—and not the environment—is the root of the opposition to the Caticlan airport expansion. (To be concluded.)

source: inquirer

RonnieR

January 31st, 2010, 06:44 AM

MARRIOTT HOTEL MANILA
http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/7015/travel1hires.jpg

QUAN SPA
http://www.quanspa.com/spa/hotels/hotel-information/travel/mnlap-manila-marriott-hotel/images/manila-index_02.jpg

Bricken Ridge

January 31st, 2010, 11:29 AM

RonnieR

January 31st, 2010, 11:38 AM

This is a pretty tough act for Manila Hotel to win back their clients with deep pockets. With Fort Bonifacio building even more high end hotels, history may not be enough to pay this old dame a visit.

I thought Manila Hotel is now owned by a Malaysian company?

The owner is Yap of Manila Bulletin. If I'm not mistaken, the highest bidder at that time was a Malaysian company but SC ruled that since this hotel has significant role/place in the country's history, it should be awarded to a Filipino company.

Bricken Ridge

February 1st, 2010, 03:07 AM

The owner is Yap of Manila Bulletin. If I'm not mistaken, the highest bidder at that time was a Malaysian company but SC ruled that since this hotel has significant role/place in the country's history, it should be awarded to a Filipino company.

Thanks for the info Ron. I guess I missed the follow up story on this one.:)

le Reine

February 1st, 2010, 12:07 PM

I am not enthusiastic about this renovation of the Manila Hotel. I guess I have to go there and see it personally.

xavierdude

February 1st, 2010, 02:45 PM

kalbongdad

February 2nd, 2010, 05:27 AM

This is a pretty tough act for Manila Hotel to win back their clients with deep pockets. With Fort Bonifacio building even more high end hotels, history may not be enough to pay this old dame a visit.

I thought Manila Hotel is now owned by a Malaysian company?

akala ko beijing hotel.....look closely....those are chinese art....anong ginagawa nyan dyan....sa MANILA hotel....:lol: dapat rename yan na beijing manila...hotel...o di kaya...shanghai-manila hotel

Bricken Ridge

February 2nd, 2010, 06:05 AM

akala ko beijing hotel.....look closely....those are chinese art....anong ginagawa nyan dyan....sa MANILA hotel....:lol: dapat rename yan na beijing manila...hotel...o di kaya...shanghai-manila hotel

That one pic is. But all these themed rooms is what made Manila Hotel so renowned. Cafe Ilang-ilang and the Champagne Rooms are my favorites.

mAiNsTrEaMhunter

February 2nd, 2010, 07:01 AM

kiretoce

February 2nd, 2010, 07:12 AM

^^
2 - Thailand
2 - India
2 - Singapore
2 - Malaysia
1 - China
1 - Philippines

On the brightside, that's one less in the Top 10 than the other countries. ;)

mAiNsTrEaMhunter

February 2nd, 2010, 07:29 AM

^^
right. but you know what, when we went to boracay, we check out PPB and surprisingly i find PPB clean, nice and really cool location although yeah, i really don't expect continental tourists to actually think the same way as i do. i admit, there are also downsides at PPB and from what ive heard their prices don't justify their being a luxury hotel. luckily for me, im an outdoor guy so ive never noticed it. :D

Bricken Ridge

February 2nd, 2010, 10:10 AM

Originally Posted by RonnieR
Dirtiest Hotels - Asia
(based on TripAdvisor traveler reviews)

* 1. Phi Phi Don Chukit Resort, Ko Phi Phi Don, Thailand
* 2. Raj Residency, Chennai (Madras), India
* 3. Goldkist Beach Resort, Singapore, Singapore
* 4. Mahkota Hotel Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia
* 5. Centaur Hotel, IGI Airport, New Delhi, India
* 6. Tatami Hampton Hotel, Hong Kong, China
* 7. Pearl of the Pacific Boracay Resort & Spa, Boracay, Philippines
* 8. First Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
* 9. Seri Costa Hotel-Resort, Melaka, Malaysia
* 10. Royal Peacock Hotel, Singapore, Singapore

I read most of the reviews of this hotel but a couple that were most disturbing are 1. One customer claimed this hotel changes its name constantly so people won't find reviews about it ( but this time the hotel was not able to change their name fast enough), and 2. another customer said they requested to change a room after finding so many problems in their room but the hotel refused even though a lot of the rooms were empty at that time.

rally

February 2nd, 2010, 10:20 AM

The owner is Yap of Manila Bulletin. If I'm not mistaken, the highest bidder at that time was a Malaysian company but SC ruled that since this hotel has significant role/place in the country's history, it should be awarded to a Filipino company.

correct, specifically, the SC said its part of the "national patrimony".

RonnieR

February 2nd, 2010, 11:27 AM

Thanks for the info Ron. I guess I missed the follow up story on this one.:)

Welcome.

Here's another good news on Philippine tourism from Gulf. They featured Tagaytay, Boracay and Cebu :cheers:

http://gulfnews.com/life-style/travel/destinations/philippines-love-triangle-1.571543

Philippines love triangle

Next time you're planning a romantic break, get adventurous and head to the exotic Philippines archipelago. With its diverse natural and cultural attractions it is easy to fall in love with this upbeat, postcard-perfect nation. samples a triple treat.

* By Sally Emery, Aquarius
* Published: 00:00 February 1, 2010

kiretoce

February 2nd, 2010, 01:21 PM

Lemme waste this post so that we can close this thread. :lol:

kiretoce

February 2nd, 2010, 01:21 PM

Post away folks! :colgate:

Link to Thread 7 (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=435396&page=254) in the Archives. :okay:

kiretoce

February 2nd, 2010, 01:22 PM

New thread! (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1058719) :colgate:

:lock:

bledzoe

February 2nd, 2010, 05:32 PM

Best New Trips for 2010 (http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/2009/11/best-new-trips-2010/trips-text/5)

PHILIPPINES
Summit to Sea

http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/2009/11/best-trips/philippines-450.jpg

The Philippines has a PR problem. While it harbors as many islands as the Caribbean and some of the most spectacular reefs on the planet, the nation sees only a fraction of the visitors of nearby Thailand. Even travel companies, it seems, have bought the bad rap: Other than the occasional sea kayaking trip, U.S. guides have largely avoided the archipelago. But Wilderness Travel has finally gotten wise. This May the outfit will lead clients high into the 4,000-foot Cordillera Central, then deep into the world’s most biodiverse marine environment. The trip begins in Banaue, where travelers spend days hiking into terraced mountains and nights back at the town’s namesake hotel (pine cabins, private balconies, killer views). Then it’s down to the island of Cabilao, trading butterflies for fish� species of them. For the next five days, you’ll bob around reefs, scanning the area’s 350 varieties of coral (including table coral that’s a whopping nine feet wide). But don’t forget: The best snorkeling starts at dusk. “It’s like being in a train station during commuting hours,” says Barbara Banks, Wilderness Travel’s director of new trip development. “The day fish are moving out and the night creatures like octopuses and eels are moving in.”

Outfitter: Wilderness Travel; wildernesstravel.com
Price: $3,300 ($$)
Length: 12 days
Departs: May

kevinb

February 2nd, 2010, 05:44 PM

http://xa.yimg.com/kq/groups/32647863/hr/238552463/name/scan0001.jpg

:cheers:

Bricken Ridge

February 3rd, 2010, 10:11 AM

RonnieR

February 3rd, 2010, 11:05 AM

RP tourism gets positive publicity from global media
Posted on February 2nd, 2010 under Beauty of the Philippines

Philippine tourism received a series of positive publicity from the foreign media, following TIME’s travel piece on Manila and CNN’s features on Boracay windsurfing and the Filipino long Christmas celebration.

“The wave of publicity certainly helps usher in a good year for tourism. More importantly, the optimism of the foreign media reinforces our image as a desirable destination,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

In the January 25th issue of TIME Asia, the city of Manila was portrayed as “beguiling and reinvigorating for even the most world-weary” by correspondent Lara Day. The Hong Kong-based writer, photographer and editor for TIME and Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia however lamented that the country is less-frequented by travelers mainly because of a “flawed image problem.”

A recent feature in the National Geographic pointed out to the similar PR issue affecting the country, while the magazine listed the Cordillera mountains as one of the 25 best destinations for 2010.

“To sustain the efforts of the foreign press, we urge all Filipinos, not just the media, to commit themselves to uplifting the country’s identity to the international community,” continued Durano.

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr., likewise emphasized the value of self-promotion to address remarks of outsiders that the country is highly underrated, “We have everything to gain if only we choose to highlight the beauty of our islands, even by way of personal blogs and social networking accounts.”

TIME Asia featured 10 attractions of Manila which varied from the Intramuros tour, museum explorations, halo-halo, music venues, to unusual shirt souvenirs. A side trip of El Nido was included in the three-page article.

Meanwhile, CNNgo.com included the country twice in its 52 best weekends of 2010 segment, which offers readers must-experience activities, destinations and festivals for all weekends of the year. A subsidiary of CNN, CNNgo.com is an insider’s online guide for travel and entertainment in Asia and the world.

The 52 Best Weekends of 2010 listed popular events such as the Australian Open in Melbourne, the Olympic Winter Games in Canada, the Dragon Boat Festival in HongKong and other avant-garde attractions as the Fuji Rock Music Festival in Japan, Trekking in Nepal and the Colombo World Spice Festival.

Claiming the year’s bookends, the Philippines captured the weekends of January 22-24 and December 24-26 for the Boracay International Funboard Cup and the world’s longest Christmas celebration, respectively.

CNNgo.com contributor Estan Cabigas of the travel blog http://langyaw.com featured the two attractions.

One of Asia’s biggest water sports events, Boracay’s windsurfing competition is where top slalom racers battle it out for global prestige. Avid water sports enthusiasts flock to this yearly contest.

Cabigas’ entry also gave detailed information on Boracay’s accommodations – from the pricey resorts to the modest inns – plus other adventure packages such as diving, island-hopping, kite-boarding, trekking via bicycles or ATVs (All Terrain Vehicle) and horse-back riding.

Last on the online guide’s list is Manila’s Christmas celebration which was touted as the world’s longest and most festive. Cabigas referred to the Filipino Yuletide spirit – signified by house-hopping jolly carollers, heavily decked out malls, and a generally more warm and friendly atmosphere – that permeates the whole country as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. CNNgo.com’s 52 Best Weekends can be seen on this site, http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/none/52-weekends.

The DOT expects tourist arrivals to surge with the country’s exposure through two of the world’s most prestigious media outfits referred to by millions all over the globe.

“Hotels, tour operators, the transportation sector, the entire industry are more than ready to accommodate the influx of guests,” said Durano.
http://goodnewspilipinas.com/?p=10227

jpdm

February 4th, 2010, 01:06 AM

Hopefully with the election of a new president in May 2010, the Philippines can make a new start...finally...:)

And our main asset, our beautiful islands and people will be given more media mileage instead of those controversies hounding our government, society and people.:)

jpdm

February 4th, 2010, 01:08 AM

RonnieR

February 4th, 2010, 06:05 AM

The foreign tourists continue to play at the casinos although Pinoys still contribute the biggest.

Pagcor hits P29.78-billion income
(The Philippine Star) Updated February 04, 2010 12:00 AM

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) showed extraordinary resiliency in 2009 after it hit its income target for the year, in spite of the financial crisis across the globe.

PAGCOR posted a P29.78-billion unaudited total annual income, almost one per cent higher than its P29.61 billion total annual income in 2008.

Although the increase in income was smaller compared to the previous years, the PAGCOR management said it “was a notable achievement” especially given the devastating impact of the global economic crunch, even to the most powerful economies in the world. Also, amidst the crisis, PAGCOR’s total income in 2009, according to PAGCOR chairman Efraim C. Genuino, was recorded as the highest in history.

“The year 2009 was tough for many industries, including the gaming and entertainment sector in Asia and the United States. A huge percentage of Las Vegas, for instance slowly became bank-owned due to the high foreclosure rates of hotel and commercial properties. Unemployment rate in the Las Vegas strip alone jumped from 3.8 percent to 12.3 percent after numerous commercial and gaming establishments closed shop,” Genuino said.

The PAGCOR chief said that the state-run gaming firm was not spared from the economic recession. However, the Philippine gaming industry thrived amidst the crisis by providing alternative entertainment and amusement options.

“Our country is surrounded by vast natural wonders, relaxation sites and world-class accommodations that are easy on the pocket. We offer foreign tourists a good chance to unwind and enjoy the good life without having to shell out a fortune,” Genuino added.

Genuino cited that next to the PAGCOR casino branches in Manila, which posted the highest business income in 2009, Cebu City, Tagaytay and the provincial branches in Luzon are the next favorite destinations of players, who are potential tourists as well.

Apart from the country’s tourism potential, PAGCOR management attributed the firm’s success to excellent customer service, win-win marketing strategies, the commitment of its 12,000 strong workforce and the business paradigm shift from mere casino gaming to total entertainment.

Currently, PAGCOR is staging the world-class theatrical dance production dubbed Flow at the PAGCOR Grand Theater in Paranaque City as part of its plan to make the Philippines a venue for international shows.

“We have not stopped thinking of creative ways to attract more customers and boost the corporation’s income. We have to rise above any crisis and be competitive, otherwise, we will be left behind by our international counterparts,” Genuino said.

kiretoce

February 4th, 2010, 09:35 AM

I'll Take You To The Philippines by apl.de.ap

E4pMbskvFYk

jpdm

February 5th, 2010, 01:39 PM

I'll Take You To The Philippines by apl.de.ap

E4pMbskvFYk

Nice!!:cheers:

kiretoce

February 6th, 2010, 03:02 AM

Well-heeled Pinoys prefer to travel to the U.S. over other destinations (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/241823/wellheeled-pinoys-prefer-travel-us-over-other-destinations)

The charms of Lady Liberty, the glamour of Hollywood and the irresistible low prices from signature outlet stores - these are among the many reasons the United States is the most preferred destination for Filipinos who have the means to satiate their wanderlust without breaking a sweat.

According to a recent survey conducted by Visa International entitled Visa Spending Patterns and Perspectives of High Income Households Survey, the US is overwhelmingly the top travel destination of choice for affluent Filipinos, capturing a staggering 51 percent of the respondents’ votes followed by Hong Kong at 26 percent and Australia at 23 percent.

The study was conducted among the Social Economic Class AB segment market earning a household income of at least PhP 100,001.00 per month. Aside from the Philippines, some 500 respondents each from nine Asia Pacific countries and territories, namely Australia, Japan, South Korea, India, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan were interviewed.

Aimed to further understand the attitudes, motivations and behaviors of consumers the study produced interesting insights on how Filipinos prefer to spend their money on luxuries and other things. In spite of the recent boom in domestic travel, the survey showed that Filipinos still manage to get a break and travel abroad as a form of relaxation and leisure.

The results also revealed that the respondents prefer long haul travel to weekend breaks as the majority of them go on vacation every six months or less. The respondents were also willing to spend more on long term luxury items and experiences such as a luxury weekend for two.

The study concurred that traveling is an important activity for the family which is the Filipinos’ ideal way of spending holidays and vacations. The study re-affirms the strong Filipino family value of enjoying things together, one of which is through traveling. This indicates why Filipinos scored the highest on the preference of traveling with families with 64 percent. The Koreans on the other hand ranked second with 41 percent.

Shopping, bonding and seeing the world are among the top passions of the affluent Filipino family as the survey revealed that they were willing to spend for it. It also showed that a large portion of the average monthly income of affluent Filipino households goes to traveling. Grocery-shopping tops the list of the monthly spending of the Filipino family while utilities spending comes in third.

In terms of travel reservation, 52 percent of affluent Filipinos will rely on travel agents to book their travels for them but at the same time, being proactively involved in meeting with their agents themselves.

And although the Philippines is still experiencing the crunch of the economic downturn, 78 percent of affluent Filipinos are still keen on travelling abroad which tops their list of passions and hobbies to pursue in the near future.

bledzoe

February 7th, 2010, 04:43 AM

bledzoe

February 7th, 2010, 04:52 AM

Baywalk offers newest come-on
(http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view/20100206-251658/Baywalk-offers-newest-come-on)
Nostalgia on the menu

By Tina Santos
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 21:21:00 02/06/2010

Filed Under: Culture (general), Lifestyle & Leisure

http://www.ricexpats.com/images/baywalk2-598x391.jpg

MANILA, Philippines—Promenaders now have another reason to hang around the Baywalk strip on Roxas Boulevard, apart from enjoying the famed Manila Bay sunset.

Every Saturday until March 6, families and tourists on weekend strolls can now watch cultural performances for free at the tree-lined walkway right across Rajah Sulayman Park.

“Sining at Kalinangan sa Baywalk” features cultural dancers and musicians from the city’s public elementary and high schools.

The presentations, held from 5 to 7 p.m., are made even more enchanting as it uses the sun setting on Manila Bay as backdrop.

Dr. Ponciano Menguito, Division of City Schools superintendent, said the program is a revival of the program initiated by Mayor Alfredo Lim when he assumed office in 2007.

Concept

The cultural show is Lim’s concept of “wholesome” entertainment, Menguito added.

At the onset of his second term as mayor, Lim ordered the dismantling of restaurants and bars on Baywalk—a project of his predecessor, former Environment Secretary Lito Atienza—because of complaints from nearby residents about the noise created by loud band music playing in the area. Atienza is one of the contenders for the mayoral post in the coming May elections, along with former Philippine National Police chief, Avelino “Sonny” Razon.

Lim admitted that Atienza’s idea was applauded at first, but complaints started coming in after watering holes sprouted one after the other, raising the noise decibels and compounded by raucous music. He added that he banned the sale of liquor in the strip because of an ordinance prohibiting the drinking of alcoholic beverages in public places.

Revival

The mayor also blamed the stalls for adding trash to the already polluted Manila Bay. He added that an estimated P7 million in unpaid dues has yet to be collected by the Manila City Treasurer’s Office from bar owners that used to operate in Baywalk.

The Baywalk is becoming a hot election topic in Manila, with Lim and Atienza issuing opposing statements about the project.

But while Atienza vowed to reconstruct the project if he is back in the saddle, Lim is reviving entertainment in the area with the help of rondallas and student bands.

“’Sining at Kalinangan’ is a cultural program intended to entertain the public and their families,” the mayor said. “So instead of scantily-clad dancers and loud band music, it should therefore feature shows and activities fit only for family entertainment.”

Lim added that the program, which coincides with the celebration of the National Arts Month, aims to promote among the public, especially the youth, a love of their own culture and arts.

“It is also the city government’s way of giving recognition to the talents of students by highlighting the country’s rich heritage via songs and dances that are truly our own,” the mayor stressed.

“The students from our city schools will offer colorful cultural performances so unlike the ones we see daily on television, most of which promote foreign talents and styles,” he added.

Yesterday, members of the Carlos P. Garcia High School Dance Troupe performed folk dances before an enthusiastic crowd, while the Juan Luna Elementary School Choir serenaded promenaders with a medley of classic Filipino love songs.

Apart from traditional songs and dances, other groups will perform using different musical instruments, including the banduria and angklung.

Menguito took pride in saying that the performance of the participants in this year’s “Sining” is at par with professional groups.

“They’re really good performers,” he said, adding that some have already won top awards in various competitions.

The school official said he is also happy with the positive feedback he has been getting about the project.

He said that among those who dropped by when the show kicked off last week were tourists who watched in awe of the youthful performers, and elderly people who enjoyed watching and listening to the music of their generation.

davaob4now

February 7th, 2010, 05:39 AM

Newest Tourism Ad daw ito ng Philippines aired sa CNN and other foreign TV networks..

DmOvgHL5RBk&feature=related

RonnieR

February 7th, 2010, 11:29 AM

MICECON 2010 puts Subic in int’l MICE map
February 7, 2010, 3:04pm

SUBIC Bay – The Philippine conference on meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE), which ended here Sunday, successfully reinforced Subic Bay Freeport’s bid to become a regional and international destination for such tourism-related activities.

More than 300 delegates to the first Philippine MICE Conference (MICECON) 2010 from all over the archipelago and across the world took notice of the freeport’s complete facilities, which are even undergoing further improvements up to the next three years.

Welcoming the guests at Friday’s opening of MICECON 2010, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Armand Arreza said the freeport hosted more than 100 MICE events in 2009 and hopes to do more this year.

Arreza said the MICE sector accounted for a significant share of the freeport’s 4 million visitors last year, 60,000 of them were participants in the over 100 MICE events held at the Subic Exhibition and Convention Center (SEBCC).

The SBECC was the venue of the MICECON 2010, which ended yesterday. With a total floor area of 12,000 square meters and a theater capacity of 10,000 people, the SEBCC is so far the country’s biggest convention facility.

The SEBCC will also be the venue for the convention of the Asia Pacific Int’l League of Guam on Feb. 18 with 500 foreign and local delegates, the Government Association of Certified Public Accountants in March with around 6,000 participants, and the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines in October with 1,000.

Last month, the SEBCC hosted the MICE events of the Coca Cola and Couple’s for Christ with a combined attendance of 5,000.

Complementing the SEBCC are Subic’s almost 2,000 hotel rooms, with another 2,000 to be built over the next two years, according to Arreza.

In his keynote speech, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano lauded Arreza and the SBMA for their “generous” contribution to the national effort to make the Philippines a MICE hub in this part of the world.

Globally, the MICE market is estimated to be worth more than $300 billion, about one percent or $3 billion of which is being targeted by the Department of Tourism, which is grooming selected parts of the country as alternative MICE destinations outside of Manila.

Among these alternative destinations is Subic, whose whopping $5.9-billion tourism receipts included revenues from MICE events.

“The staging of MICECON 2010 in Subic is intended to develop and market the North as another international MICE destination outside Manila,” Durano earlier said.

MICECON 2010 also brings guests around the freeport and along the Subic-Clark corridor, including Balanga town in Bataan, now a popular destination for birdwatching.

The tour highlights Subic’s complete amenities for MICE activities as these also complement those of its neighboring localities.
http://www.mb.com.ph/node/242333/micecon-2010-put

Ph Man

February 7th, 2010, 11:57 AM

http://images.inquirer.net/media/networkindex/images/pic-02070224330832.jpg
BIRDS OF THE SAME FEATHER It’s well worth reprinting the brown boobies of Tubbataha as photographed by Melvyn Calderon during a bird-watching trip in that bird sanctuary islet in Palawan.

It's very heartwarming to see those winged visitors stop by. Tubbataha is simply too far away from the mainland. I wish the place becomes more accessible in the future.

Too bad but I've been reading a lot of not so good news that the people of the Cordillera are no longer keen on the rice terraces' upkeep. The cost vs. benefit is just enormous.

This is the part where government aid is needed.

kalbongdad

February 7th, 2010, 12:35 PM

kiretoce

February 7th, 2010, 08:19 PM

Ships, Ahoy! (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/242239/ships-ahoy)

http://www.mb.com.ph/sites/default/files/MV-Discovery.jpg
MV Discovery docks on its maiden call to Manila

She arrived with a toot of her foghorn and a message of cheer.

The cruise ship MV Discovery recently made its first scheduled stop in Manila with almost 600 passengers from Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Serbia, and the United States aboard. The 20,000 ton cruise ship docked for a two-day stop at Pier 13 from Hong Kong.

Originating from the United Kingdom, the cruise ship is on its course to traverse the globe and give its passengers the chance to see some of the beautiful places around the world. With most of the passengers and even some of the cruise ship’s crew setting their sight and foot on Philippine soil for the first time, it was clearly a “cut loose” time for them to enjoy the warmth of Philippine sunshine and its people.

The tourists enthusiastically embraced the warm welcome and said they owed this anticipation of experiencing the country to the 237 Filipino crew members onboard the MV Discovery. “There are so many cheerful Filipino crews on the boat that we wanted to see where they come from and why they are so happy,” shares Walter Girven of Wiltshire, England.

Aside from the captivating personalities of Filipinos, the tourists were also interested in learning more about Philippine culture and heritage. It’s not easy to sum up the Philippines in two days but the cruise organizers made most of the time by arranging visits to key tourism spots in the metro - Old Manila City tour, Pagsanjan Falls, Hidden Valley in Laguna, Villa Escudero, Tagaytay Ridge, and Corregidor Island.

The MV Discovery will cruise the rest of Asia after its two day stay in the Philippines. Its next stop would be Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu in Borneo, then off to Brunei and the rest of its destination around the globe.

This cruise ship’s maiden voyage to Philippine seas is a testament to how well the rest of the world is receiving the Philippines as a prime tourism spot not only in Asia but in the rest of the world. “Our country is getting more and more into the radar, and more and more we are being included in catalogues of cruise ships,” says Eduardo Jarque Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions of the Department of Tourism (DoT).

Jarque added that from among all the ports where these cruise shops dock, it is in the Philippines that passengers get the warmest welcome.

Through the efforts of the DoT, drum and lyre bands and different dance groups meet the liners at the dock to head the welcoming committee. This gives the tourists a glimpse of our festive nature and helps set the mood for the rest of their stay in the country. A fiesta atmosphere usually pervades in the welcome reception for cruise ship passengers and crew and this alone has made Manila an important port of call.

kevinb

February 7th, 2010, 10:32 PM

Newest Tourism Ad daw ito ng Philippines aired sa CNN and other foreign TV networks..

DmOvgHL5RBk&feature=related

That's nice.:okay:

I saw this after watching that vid.

_seqGWjTkuQ

Philippine Tourism TVC as seen at MTV Channels

jpdm

February 8th, 2010, 03:02 AM

RonnieR

February 8th, 2010, 05:30 AM

Ships, Ahoy! (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/242239/ships-ahoy)

http://www.mb.com.ph/sites/default/files/MV-Discovery.jpg
MV Discovery docks on its maiden call to Manila

She arrived with a toot of her foghorn and a message of cheer.

The cruise ship MV Discovery recently made its first scheduled stop in Manila with almost 600 passengers from Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Serbia, and the United States aboard. The 20,000 ton cruise ship docked for a two-day stop at Pier 13 from Hong Kong.

^^ wow...

Domestic tourism hikes 2009 air traffic by 25%

BusinessWorld | 02/08/2010 9:42 AM

MANILA, Philippines - Passengers on domestic flights rose 25% due to strong domestic tourism in 2009, as local cargo grew 8%, data from the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) released over the weekend showed.

Specifically, the number of domestic air passengers rose to 14.7 million from 11.8 million in 2008, as airlines increased the number available seats by a fourth to 18.96 million from 15.13 million. Domestic air cargo rose to 148 million kilograms from 136 million kg, the same data showed.

In an interview on Friday, CAB Executive Director Carmelo L. Arcilla attributed the increase in domestic passengers to more leisure travels by locals. "The increase is really due to the fact that we have stronger domestic tourism now, coupled with the promo fares of airlines and the rise of budget carriers," he said.

CAB had earlier said that it and the country’s carriers are banking on growing local tourism to offset the global slump in international air travel.

Philippine Airlines experienced a 23% growth to 6 million domestic passengers last year from 4.9 million in 2008.

Budget carrier Cebu Pacific reported a 35% increase in domestic passengers to 7.2 million last year from 5.35 million in 2008.

The airline attributed the increase to its lower fares. "For Cebu Pacific, higher loads were brought about by successive seat sales and lowest year-round fares offered by the airline. We were able to stimulate travel despite the market conditions," said Cebu Pacific Vice-President Candice A. Iyog in a text message.

Zest Airways, Inc. more than doubled its domestic passengers to 872,223 from 374,145.
as of 02/08/2010 10:28 AM

RonnieR

February 8th, 2010, 05:48 AM

Taste of the Philippines

Kezia Toh
The Straits Times
Publication Date: 05-02-2010
http://www.asianewsnet.net/photo/news/wolfgang_copy1.jpg
(Photo courtesy of Wolfgang)

The members of popular Filipino heavy metal and grunge band Wolfgang are reuniting for a gig in Singapore.

For this weekend's Filipino Fort Fiesta, the band's lead vocalist Sebastian Roig Artadi, better known as Basti, will fly in from San Francisco, where he is currently based.

The one-day music festival, which has the theme of 'Pagkakaisa Sa Musika' (Tagalog for Unity In Music), brings together a host of musical acts from the Philippines, including alternative rock outfit Urbandub, funk pop-rock group Kapatid and Philippine Idol winner Mau Marcelo.

Organiser Daniel Joseph, 37, said: "We are hoping that the event will be something that the Pinoy population here can own and embrace on an annual basis."

Headliners Wolfgang, particularly, have stirred much interest among fans here, said Joseph.

"Plenty of bands are trying to get exposure outside the Philippines. Since there is a huge Filipino population in Singapore, there is the potential to market Filipino music here," he explained.

The Filipino population in Singapore is estimated at 160,000.

It is not Wolfgang's first visit to Singapore. They played an unplugged set at the Mosaic Music Festival in March last year.

The Fiesta, which will cost close to S$100,000 (US$70,700) to stage, aims to replicate the atmosphere of festivals such as Big Day Out, an annual outdoor music festival held in several cities in Australia and New Zealand. The fiesta is organised by LinVan Productions, an event management consultants company here.

Along with the headline acts, festivalgoers can also expect a taste of Filipino cuisine. A showcase of home beers such as San Miguel and Red Horse will be on site, and a stall will sell familiar Filipino favourites such as the pancit palabok (round rice noodles coated with shrimp sauce) and leche flan (a milk custard dessert similar to creme brulee).

Close to 1,200 tickets have been snapped up and Joseph is hoping to attract some 4,000 partygoers to the event.

He said: "Tell a Filipino about a 'fiesta', meaning party, and they will be very excited because they know that they will be in for a great time."
http://www.asianewsnet.net/news.php?id=9933&sec=10

c6josh

February 9th, 2010, 01:39 PM

I'll Take You To The Philippines by apl.de.ap

E4pMbskvFYk

^^love the video and the song...his love of country really has shown in this clip.

okidok

February 10th, 2010, 03:06 AM

Top 10 Destinations for Independent Travelers in 2010

By: BootsnAll Staff

10 – Fukuoka, Japan

Fun to say? Sure. But on top of that Fukuoka is a highly recommended destination for anyone wanting to see what Japan is like outside of its insanely huge and crowded capital of Tokyo.

In spite of having a population of 1.5 million, Fukuoka is compact enough to see on foot, but they’ve also got a clean and efficient subway system for those with a bit less energy. For great views of this modern city you can head to the 234-meter Fukuoka Tower or the giant Sky Dream Ferris Wheel for a 20-minute ride. For something uniquely Japanese you can go to Robosquare, where you can watch or participate in demonstrations of personal robots for free.

The city also has its famous Canal City shopping complex, where you can get an up-close look at the Japanese retail obsession, complete with wacky one-of-a-kind souvenir items and all manners of trendy fashions. And if the sun is out you can head over to Mitoma Beach to see how the locals cool off and even surf when the waves are good. The notable local cuisine is a variety of pork-flavored ramen noodles that are found pretty much everywhere.

Day trips from Fukuoka include Hiroshima, Mt. Asa (an active volcano) and Beppu, a resort town with hot springs, monkeys, and themed pools termed “The Hells.”

You can fly directly into Fukuoka from most major cities in Asia and all over Japan, or you can take a 5-hour train ride from Tokyo if you are combining the two.

9 – Durban, South Africa

This is a very special year for South Africa, and for Africa as a whole. In June, the 19th World Cup, the largest and most-watched event in sport, descends on South Africa. Never before has a World Cup, or any event of this size, been held anywhere on the continent, and our pick of the ten cities hosting the Cup is Durban.

No stranger to visitors, Durban is the busiest port city in Africa, and also one of the most tourist friendly. The Golden Mile, Durban’s famous stretch of beach, is a must-see for the traveler who wants more out of their African vacation than just Big Five wildlife tours. Surfing is popular here, and though South Africa is famous for its sharks, netting protects the Golden Mile’s beach from the marine predators. If you want a safer look at the sharks that are swimming just beyond the nets, the uShaka Marine World aquarium has the world’s largest shark tank.

There’s no doubt that Durban (and South Africa overall) has its problems, with crime rates that might scare off some tourists, but it also has so much to offer to the educated traveler. Add in the world’s biggest international party, the World Cup, and you have a must-see destination for 2010.

There aren’t many international flights straight into Durban, and most travelers will have to enter South Africa through the main hub, Johannesburg. There are several small carriers like Mango and Kulula that run daily domestic flights to Durban from all the other major cities in South Africa.

8 – Iceland

By now most people are aware of Iceland’s financial mini-collapse, and as awful as that may be for many of its citizens, the silver lining is being enjoyed by budget-oriented travelers who can suddenly afford a visit. Long described as stunning, unique, and jaw-droppingly expensive, it seems that prices are actually now in line with other European countries so that third part is on hold, at least for a while.

You’ll fly in near Reykjavik and almost everyone enjoys spending the first day or so checking out the small and charming capital, but Iceland is similar to New Zealand in that the largest city is perhaps the least spectacular thing about the place.

One popular strategy is to rent a car for a week or so and trace the Route 1 – Ring Road around the island in either direction. Along the way you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, national parks, lakes, volcanic craters, and fjords along with a bit of wildlife.

Flights from either North America or Europe are reasonable, thanks to Iceland Air and their program that allows free Transatlantic stop-overs for those not satisfied with making Iceland their only destination. And the country’s most famous single attraction – the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa – is an easy stop near the airport.

7 – Sighisoara, Romania

Independent travelers wanting to visit Central-Eastern Europe typically start with Budapest, Prague, or Budapest and hardly ever go deeper than that. But those looking to explore some of the jewels of the region should definitely consider Sighisoara.

The Romanian town of Sighisoara, located deep in Transylvania, on Tarnava River, has preserved the features of a small medieval fortified city in a remarkable way. The landmark of this picturesque town, which has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, is the Clock Tower, a 64-meter tower built in 1556, currently home to the Museum of History (and from the top balcony offering the best views of citadel and surrounding areas).

Near the end of July each year the tiny cobblestone streets of the citadel are flooded with visitors from all over the world coming here for the Medieval Festival. English, French and German are useful here, regardless of the time of the year when you visit, although if you venture into the new parts of the town, it’s useful to know at least some Romanian phrases.

In addition to the well-preserved medieval buildings, Sighisoara is also famous for being the (alleged) birth town of Vlad Dracul (a.k.a. Dracula). The house where he was born still exists and is located close to the Clock Tower (currently it’s a restaurant).

You can get to Sighisoara by train from any major Romanian city (Bucharest, Cluj Napoca, Brasov, Sibiu, etc.) and there are direct train connections from Budapest, Vienna and Prague as well.

6 – Philippines

As most of the world’s budget travelers seem to be descending on the mainland part of Southeast Asia, those looking to get off the well-trodden tourist trail will be heading to the Philippines. With over 7,000 islands in the archipelago, it makes perfect sense that you’ve got a lot of options when it comes to scenery and activities.

There’s world-class diving and snorkeling available, at prices that are significantly lower than in most of the rest of the world. Whitewater rafting is also big in the country, but for those who are more interested in just relaxing you’ve got a choice of excellent beaches of every variety, with Boracay Beach being the most famous internationally.

The culture is a mix of a variety of indigenous peoples along with some notable Spanish influences and even some American thrown in. The locals have a reputation as some of the friendliest towards outsiders in the world, and nearly everyone speaks at least some English so if you can read this article then there will be no language barrier to worry about. Prices for almost everything are quite low, so your travel fund goes a long way here and might allow you much more luxury than you are used to.

Most visitors will fly into Manila, which is certainly worth a look on its own, but another option is the large and modern seaport of Cebu, which seems to be gaining on the capital as a favorite entry point for travelers.

5 – Split, Croatia

It seems like everyone was talking about Croatia a few years ago so this is yet another spot where you certainly won’t be the only tourist in town. Still, it’s worth considering a visit for a great number of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that the country continues to be more affordable than most of its neighbors, and loaded with interesting things to see and do as well.

Those who want to get past Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb will usually head to Dubrovnik, but many people complain that it has gotten too touristy in the past few years in the same way that Prague seems to be bursting at the seams with gift shops. But Split isn’t yet suffering from that syndrome, so there’s still time to check out all the Roman ruins and palaces and unique culture without feeling like you are part of one big tour group.

Split is yet another city that has a well-preserved and easily walkable historic city center, so you’ll be able to take in all the cathedrals, temples, museums, and markets your heart desires. But of course you’ve got lovely beaches with opportunities to do water sports if you’ve got the energy, plus abundant ferries to nearby Adriatic islands for something more exclusive.

If you shop around you might want to look for a cheap flight into Zagreb and then take a train or bus to Split, but there are plenty of flights directly into Split itself so that’s worth a try, especially if you’ll be coming from nearby.

4 – British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia is going to be in the news in a really intense way in a month or so when the Olympics descend upon Vancouver. If past Olympics coverage is anything to go by, they should do a pretty good job of showing off the natural beauty of the region – but just in case you’re not glued to the TV, we wanted to make sure you still had BC on your tourism radar.

City lovers will find plenty to get excited about in Vancouver, but we would suggest British Columbia is more about wilderness. Two big mountain ranges, thick forests, and an intricate network of islands off the coast – some of which are extremely remote – are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg when it comes to BC’s great outdoors.

And even though exploring the far reaches of Northern British Columbia isn’t exactly practical during the height of winter, by all means get excited about a BC trip during the 2010 Olympics and plan your own trip for the summer of 2010. BootsnAll writer Jessica Spiegel did a road trip through BC in August 2009, and highlighted “5 reasons to visit British Columbia” in a recent article.

Most visitors will want to fly into Vancouver, but flights to Seattle might be cheaper and it’s only a few hours away if you are doing the road trip thing anyway.

3 – Scotland

The majority of travelers coming to Britain don’t ever leave the confines of London, and this is a great shame, because just a short flight or train ride north is Scotland, land of whisky, bagpipes and golf.

Clichés aside, there are few travel destinations that offer so much to so many different kinds of travelers. Whether your idea of the perfect vacation is playing golf on world-famous courses like Turnberry or St. Andrews, or backpacking through some of the most rugged trails in Europe, you will find it here.

Edinburgh is by far the most popular tourist city, and home to one of Britain’s most visited attractions, Edinburgh Castle. For the more party-minded, Glasgow has a fantastic bar and live music scene, and has become one of the hotspots of British rock in the last decade. But it’s outside of the cities that you find the real heart of Scotland, especially up north in the famed Highlands.

Anyone who loves the outdoors (and doesn’t mind a bit of rain on their back) would be hard-pressed to find a better definition of heaven, with beautiful landscapes dotted with the ruins of medieval castles. And even farther up the map, the Orkney Islands offer a totally unique blend of Scottish and Norse culture and some of the best whale and wildlife watching in northern Europe. Scotland is definitely rugged, and the winters are not for the meek, but those who brave the chance of rain get back more than they ever expected.

Though you can get flights straight to Edinburgh from several cities in Europe, most people get their international flight to London Heathrow, then add a domestic leg on one of the budget airlines to Edinburgh or Glasgow. If you want to get out of the city and into the Highlands fast, fly from London straight to Inverness, capital of the Highlands and home of world famous Loch Ness.

2 – Pucón, Chile

For 2009 we recommended Bariloche, Argentina, and this year we are going with what is more or less considered the Chilean version of that, at least in that it’s known as the adventure capital of the country and is popular all year round.

Located in the Lake District on Lago Villarica, the entire area is gorgeous as the backdrop often includes the stunning and perpetually snowcapped Villarica Volcano. You can take a non-technical guided hike up the volcano and even visit the lava crater if that appeals to you. During winter the area is a major center for skiing and snowboarding, and there are plenty of natural hot springs to visit as well.

During warmer months it might take less space to list the things that aren’t available, but just to hit some highlights you’ve got easy access to hiking, white-water rafting, canopy tours, horseback riding, cycling, golf, and fishing. And since the place is a mecca for international backpackers as well as those from the region, it’s no surprise that there is active nightlife that can take on almost any form. Well-heeled Chileans also use the area as a summer resort, so there’s more going on than just catering to backpacker types.

Getting there can be a bit tricky, since the airport is only open during warm months (December through February), though affordable overnight buses from Santiago operate all year round.

1 – New Zealand

Picking New Zealand for a list of great destinations for independent travelers is a bit like picking the Beatles for a list of great British bands, so here it is. If you haven’t yet had the privilege to visit this country you are probably already sick of hearing people rave about it, but still, the visit itself is likely to be so different from anywhere else you’ve been that it’s hard to stay quiet about it.

First off, Auckland is a pleasant enough city, but don’t waste more than a day or two at the beginning and/or end of your trip in the city, since all the magic is elsewhere. Train service in New Zealand is limited and slow, so most people either get around on one of the backpacker bus companies, or rent a vehicle of some kind for a DIY tour. Cars and motorbikes are available, but the true classic New Zealand adventure is done by renting a campervan (motor home) and staying in the cheap holiday parks (camp grounds) all over both islands that also serve the social function of hostels everywhere else.

Auckland is on the North Island, which is also home to many popular sights and attractions, but nearly everyone agrees that the South Island is the more special of the two, so don’t even think about limiting your trip to just one or the other. Queenstown on the South Island is gorgeous and loaded with things to do all year round, so make sure you don’t leave that one off your itinerary if it can be helped.

Flights to Auckland tend to be the cheapest and easiest to find, though if you are in the region already you might head straight for the pleasant city of Christchurch on the South Island instead.

http://www.bootsnall.com/articles/09-12/top-10-destinations-for-independent-travelers-in-2010.html

kevinb

February 10th, 2010, 04:47 AM

DOT Launches Kayaking in the Philippines (http://www.dotpcvc.gov.ph/Events/2010%20PHIL%20MICE%20CONFERENCE/news.html)

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has recently launched its newest tourism product that features kayaking around the Philippines.

Introduced to major foreign buyers attending the Philippine Travel Exchange '09 (PHITEX), the new tourism product highlights kayaking adventure in beaches, lagoons, rivers, lakes, springs, and fjords.

"In a country of 7,107 islands, one can only imagine the infinite possibilities of kayaking adventure. Exploring the span of our clear waters surely opens travelers to the unique splendor of our country," said Ace Durano, Secretary of Tourism.

A short video on kayaking in the Philippines was presented to top travel buyers from Asia and Europe, with delegates comprised of tour operators, travel agencies, retailers, corporate planners, alternative tours companies, and incentive travel firms.

"Kayaking allows tourists inside secret coves, inlets, channels that lead to stunning views of our mangrove forests, limestone cliffs, unspoiled coastlines and other exciting mysteries around our islands," shared Eduardo Jarque Jr., Tourism Undersecretary for Planning and Promotions. A book entitled, Kayak Philippines, was also handed out to participants. Apart from kayaking tips and basic paddling symbols, the book showed top sites and trails, which include, Pinacanauan River, Hundred Islands, Cavite-Corregidor-Bataan, Caramoan Peninsula, Northern Palawan, Cebu, Bohol, Samar, Siargao Island, and Samal Island.

The Cavite-Corregidor-Bataan features a historic kayaking trail, starting at the entrance of the Manila Bay, passing Cavite, and then Corregidor Island which bore witness to World War II. Tourists can opt to disembark on the island and enjoy a walking tour of sites in Bataan including Mt. Samat, the Shrine of Valor.

The Caramoan Peninsula offers a view of limestones, rugged coastlines, and white sand-ringed islands, complemented by a stunning view of underwater marine life by snorkeling around shallow waters.

For the high-spending market, the DOT offers Luxury Kayaking in Palawan. Known for its idyllic beaches, lagoons and caves, Palawan enjoins travelers to kayak in El Nido and Coron.

Cebu draws attention to paddling in Hilutungan Island and Marine Sanctuary, Sulpa Island, Olango Island and Mactan Island for moonlight kayaking.

Bohol, the frontier of ecotourism, lists several sites for kayaking which include, Banacon Island, Pandanon Island, Dumog and Ubay Islands, Abatan River, and Punta Cruz, which teem with mangrove forest and sandbars. Lagoon moonlight paddling is also offered in Panglao Island.

In Samar, the unspoiled waters of Marabut, and Sohoton Natural Bridge Park are featured. While Siargao has Guyam Island, Sohoton Cove, and Del Carmen Lagoon. Samal Island in Davao is likewise a kayak site, promising reefs, mountains and caves along the way.

Stanie Soriano, Corporate Relations Manager of Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation, (PCVC) DOT's partner in the project, added that, "These paddling spots can be availed through several tour packages such as the New Adventure-Kayak Hundred Islands, Historic Manila Bay Kayaking Adventures; Luxury Kayaking Safari in Bacuit Bay, Palawan, and Bohol Extreme Packages: Kayamping (Kayak and Camping)."

:cheers:

sandwindstars

February 10th, 2010, 07:58 AM

RonnieR

February 10th, 2010, 09:37 AM

This post is my beef about the DOT Portal, Wow Philippines (http://www.wowphilippines.com.ph/). I liked the old WOW Philippines website which was user friendly, visually appealing, and invites the viewer to point and click. The way it was designed, it had the potential visitor and buyer in mind.

I will be in Northern Luzon in April/May, and a friend based outside of Xiamen, wants to meet me there, her first time in the country. I suggested Laoag where there are a few charter flights from HK. I checked the Wow Phil website for Ilocos Norte/Sur. Holy smokes, it was difficult to find the destinations (it's under Philippine Tourism/Plan A Trip/Select Regions) a small button; then I found the interactive map, clicked on Region 1. I tried to send it to my friend but it doesn't have a url, it reverts back to the main url only. I tried the regional sites www.myphilippines.com (http://www.myphilippines.com) and its not fully functional. Now tell me, how can an ordinary traveller get excited about the country when they can't even access a proper site for the Philippines. This Phil tourism portal is focused what they do, their strategy, all about the department etc. Who the f... cares about what the department does. All a wanna be tourist wants is useful and exciting information to get them to visit. This site even has a pic of the Sec of Tourism on the home page! (Is he some sort of a tourist site?)

My friend is from Canada, doesn't know much about the area, needs info, where to go, what to do, what to see, where to stay, how to get there. I ended up sending her Lonely Planet Philippines instead which is way better designed/constructed, more down to earth, very useful information by destination, with reviews from bloggers.

For a comparison, check out Norway (http://www.visitnorway.com/); Germany (http://www.germany-tourism.de/);Papua New Guinea (http://www.pngtourism.org.pg/). In a very competitive world, travelers like to travel independently, (f.i.t), are internet savvy, with more sophisticated travel habits, and this current Phil tourism site is so amateurish. I want the old Wow Philippine website back. No wonder tourism in the Phil is lagging behind. 80% of travel sales and marketing is done through the internet, and the country doesn't even have a good one. Aaaaarghhhh....

This should be addressed by DOT. We have so many IT professionals...

Cable car system to link La Union, Baguio pushed
By DEXTER A. SEE
February 9, 2010, 6:00pm

BAGUIO CITY – A top official of the Department of Transportation and Communications here said the best way to attract more foreign and domestic tourists to Baguio would be a cable car system from the lowland province of La Union to this mountain resort city.

The proposed cable car system will help shorten the one-and-a-half hour travel time from Baguio to La Union and vice versa to only 30 minutes, and would provide tourists a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

DOTC Undersecretary Giling Mamondiyong said there is no longer room for the expansion of Baguio’s Loakan Airport although it will still remain open for smaller planes. He said the development of the Poro Point International Airport in nearby San Fernando City, La Union will also help strengthen the local tourism industry.

Mamondiyong told local officials that he will request President Arroyo to allocate funds for a feasibility study for a cable car system, which he said will also address the perennial problem of major road closures between Baguio and the lowlands during typhoons and landslides.

The DOTC official admitted that the development of the Poro Point International Airport slowed down a bit because of marketing problems that could result to bigger problems in the future. He said appropriate remedies are being implemented to make the airport operational within the year.

The airport was supposed to begin full operations last October to cater to the increasing number of tourist arrivals in La Union, from where tourists usually motor up to Baguio.

Mamondiyong said the national government is not abandoning plans to rehabilitate and upgrade the Poro Point airport because it will serve as an air transport hub in Northern Luzon.

The official said establishing a cable car system between La Union and Baguio could be one of the best legacies of the Arroyo administration to the people of Northern Luzon who rely on tourism as a major source of income.
http://www.mb.com.ph/node/242696/cable-car-

jpdm

February 10th, 2010, 11:27 AM

^^^^
This is a good project for Baguio tourism:cheers:

Ronskie

February 10th, 2010, 03:35 PM

^^^^
This is a good project for Baguio tourism:cheers:

Ayusin muna nila yun urban planning, congested na baguio and wala man lng magawa yun local na pamahalaan. Ang pangit na tingnan ng Baguio sa aerial view sa dami ng mga barong barong na bahay, parang gabundok na basura pag tiningnan sa malayuan. :ohno:

wino

February 10th, 2010, 04:41 PM

^^ yea.. actually ayoko nang bumalik sa baguio.. CITY OF BASURAS at PUTIK , lalo na sa palengke.. ang baho baho..

when i was kid, i love going there.. very refreshing at relaxing ang paligid..
the last time na nagpunta ako dun (4-5 years ago i think).. mas lalo ako na stressed.. sobra na sikip kahit saan ka magpunta.. ang papanget pa ng mga construction.. haaayss... i can't imagine how it looks right now..

kung ang Metro Manila ay city of squatters.. baguio is a city of basuras. no wonder mga Pinoy lang ang matiyagang magtour dito..

sandwindstars

February 10th, 2010, 07:53 PM

This should be addressed by DOT. We have so many IT professionals...

[/url]

No this is a marketing issue, it needs a marketing expert to create the focus, message, objective, and how to "sell" the destinations. An internet site is a marketing collateral, an online brochure etc. In the industry sometimes referred to as a "lure" piece - to lure the potential client. The technical specs come after that.

RonnieR

February 11th, 2010, 07:35 AM

Turning a 'place' into a 'destination'
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/NEWKHSITE/data/html_dir/2010/02/11/201002110060.asp

Boracay, the tropical island of the Philippines known for powdery white sand and good shallow coral dives, was not a familiar name here until the early '90s. It was then when the Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation, the marketing arm of the country's Department of Tourism, started promoting the destination in Korea.

At the center of efforts to spread the word about the favored vacation spot was Nancy Choi, president of Seoul-based public relations firm CJ's World, which took a lead in the project as the official PR agency for the PCVC.

"The beauty of the beach and the ocean was simply beyond my imagination, and there was no limit to the fun we could have there - fishing, sailing, barbequing and napping on the hammock - although we had no electricity at our bungalow," Choi told The Korea Herald last week, looking back on her challenging yet exciting first encounter with the island.

Having devoted about half of her professional life to the promotion of various tourist destinations around the world, Choi recently published the book, "Nareul marketing hago segyereul PR hara" (Lux Media, 287 pages). Translated loosely as "Market me and promote the world," the Korean-language essay is full of vivid descriptions of popular travel spots. It is in great part thanks to her intensive and extensive PR activities over the years through which Koreans have become familiar with these destinations.

A more recent example is Norway, the beautiful country of fjords and great explorers, which sought to reposition itself as the Scandinavian tourism hub in 2008 under the slogan of "Norway - Powered by Nature."

In cooperation with CJ's World, the country organized a wide range of marketing and promotion activities throughout the year, such as inviting Korean news reporters and conducting co-promotions with Korean companies.

"When I and a group of Korean reporters arrived at the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam to change planes for Bergen, Norway, a strike had closed Bergen Airport. So we had to use the ferry instead to get to Bergen from Stavanger, which was quite an adventure," said Choi, who started out her career as a flight attendant for Pan American Airways in the 1990s.

The promotion was a success. The number of Korean tourists visiting Norway had increased near 10 percent year-on-year in August 2009 despite the global economic downturn and Norway's notoriously high cost of living that should have worked against its appeal as a travel destination.

"Brand is formed when images accumulate, and the brand of a country is no exception," Choi said. "Images about a country's people, traditions, history and lifestyle form the country's brand."

Explaining further her brand-building theory, Choi cited the example of Austria, which she said owes much of its strong national brand to one great musician: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. "Using a celebrity or a historical invention from the country can be an efficient way to promote a country to rest of the world. It would be too time-consuming to promote a country as a whole to the rest of the world," she said.

Although much of her official work is promoting foreign countries and cities to Koreans, she has also taken on an unofficial duty of promoting Korea to her predominantly European business partners.

"Of course Europeans know Korea, but in many cases all they know are 2002 World Cup soccer finals and companies like Samsung and Hyundai. We should not presume that Europeans would know Korea as much as Chinese and Japanese people do when we meet and talk with them," Choi said.

(danlee@heraldm.com)

By Lee Yong-sung

RonnieR

February 11th, 2010, 07:38 AM

xxxriainxxx

February 11th, 2010, 02:21 PM

sobra naman sinabi mo about Metro Manila. Yes, totoo may problema tayo sa squatters but based on MMDA's actual count, 18% of the population are squatters. Anyway, the government has started with its relocation program.

I think you guys are both right in some ways... Yeah, Baguio really have to deal with revitalization of their city. Puro na lang bubong kasi ang makikita mo, wala ng masyadong pine trees. It is one tourist trap after another. The last time I was in Baguio was last May 2009 kasi daanan namin going to Sagada and back. Sagada and Baguio really is like light years away from each other. Sagada have more charm, cleaner, and the folks are friendlier. No one is trying to sell you anything and it is much safer too than Baguio. One time I was walking in Baguio's Bokawkan Rd. at night a few years ago, my uncle said to be really careful as I may get stabbed. There was a study a few years ago which ranks Baguio as having the most polluted air in the country, because of its elevation, exhaust fumes tends to hover around the city.

What Baguio needs to do-

1) Stop any further construction. Demolish old structures.
2) Regreen the city.
3) Establish an eco-friendly and more efficient transportation infrastructure

There is still hope of course. But Baguio residents and leaders should take the initiative to make their city more attractive again.

Ph Man

February 11th, 2010, 02:58 PM

And control population also....

Baguio still has its charm that makes us return to the place. Maybe it's the people and of course, the climate. :)

hakz2007

February 11th, 2010, 03:58 PM

RP needs tourism brand to excel—Gabor (http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=21749:rp-needs-tourism-brand-to-excelgabor&catid=45:regions&Itemid=71)

SUBIC BAY FREE PORT—The Philippine tourism industry needs one single distinct brand for the country so that local attractions would attain top-of-the-mind status among the world’s best.

This was the exhortation from former tourism secretary Mina Gabor, who spoke during the opening of the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) Conference 2010 held over the weekend at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) in this free port.

“The Philippines needs to create a Philippine Branding Council that will put the country’s tourism industry back on the right track, and establish a respectable brand that we decide for our country,” Gabor said.

The council, she added, will be composed of individuals of diverse disciplines, “who will seriously study the nation’s global image, take into account all the important talents and treasures in the country, and study other countries’ best practices and how they influence the nation.”

Gabor, who is now consultant to the World Tourism Organization and considered as one of the most powerful women in the field by Travel Agent, a newsweekly published in New York, lamented that while the Philippines is aspiring to be a global tourism player, little has been done to create a distinct Philippine brand.

She recalled asking friends based in Europe, Japan, the United States, Australia and Canada about what they thought of the Philippines today and receiving an odd mixture of answers.

“Sad to say, Imelda’s [Marcos] shoes still topped the list,” Gabor said. “The rest mentioned disasters, terrorism, corruption, domestic helps and poverty.”

Gabor also mentioned that in Spain, “Filipino” is a biscuit with chocolate and mocha flavor, while “Filipina” means a domestic helper.

This should not be the case, said Gabor. “‘Filipino’ must be synonymous with talented actors and actresses—the likes of Lea Salonga, as well as for excellent health care, human resources and fine embroidery, among others,” she added.

Alongside the creation of a Philippine Branding Council, the local tourism industry should also stage global events that make the country “known, respected and influential.”

“And we need a very supportive media,” she added.

“Until then, we can only dream of a Philippines that is a top tourism destination,” Gabor said.

Meanwhile, Tourism Sec. Joseph “Ace” Durano cited the Subic Bay free port as an example of how stakeholders in the MICE industry could tap into the $300-billion global MICE market.

Stressing how Subic literally rose from the ashes of the Mount Pinatubo eruption in 1991 and transformed itself into a bustling free port and tourism attraction, Durano told local tourism companies to “assess the situation and formulate appropriate strategies.”

“There is always an opportunity that comes with change,” Durano added.

He said MICE players can respond to the challenges faced by the industry in two ways: either “to be like an immovable object, which eventually is toppled by the wind, or [be] a kite that soars higher as the wind gets stronger.”

Meanwhile, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator Armand Arreza told the more than 300 delegates to the convention that Subic “has reaped much benefits after the SBMA decided to invest in the MICE industry.”

He said the agency’s decision to become a player in tourism gave rise to the 12,000-square meter SBECC, which now boasts of having one of the best convention facilities in the country today.

The SBECC, which was formerly the shell of an abandoned computer parts factory and warehouse, and refurbished by the SBMA at the cost of P350 million, has poured from $10 million to $12 million in income to the local economy since it first opened for the 20th Philippine  Advertising Congress in 2007, Arreza said.

wino

February 11th, 2010, 04:53 PM

I think you guys are both right in some ways... Yeah, Baguio really have to deal with revitalization of their city. Puro na lang bubong kasi ang makikita mo, wala ng masyadong pine trees. It is one tourist trap after another. The last time I was in Baguio was last May 2009 kasi daanan namin going to Sagada and back. Sagada and Baguio really is like light years away from each other. Sagada have more charm, cleaner, and the folks are friendlier. No one is trying to sell you anything and it is much safer too than Baguio. One time I was walking in Baguio's Bokawkan Rd. at night a few years ago, my uncle said to be really careful as I may get stabbed. There was a study a few years ago which ranks Baguio as having the most polluted air in the country, because of its elevation, exhaust fumes tends to hover around the city.

What Baguio needs to do-

1) Stop any further construction. Demolish old structures.
2) Regreen the city.
3) Establish an eco-friendly and more efficient transportation infrastructure

There is still hope of course. But Baguio residents and leaders should take the initiative to make their city more attractive again.

PINE TREES (seriously, Filipinos go there to see one) was the niche of Babuio before.. pero pag pumunta ka dun ngayon.. wala ka nang maciadong makikitang GREEN.. puros kulay ng kalawang makikita mo..
and so was FRESH COOL air .. ngayon puros usok, mapanghe at mabaho
Baguio did not concentrated on it's strength.. it's has lost it's niche already..

anyway.. i just hope they will have a disciplined, sustainable development there.. more GREEN parks to enjoy and less commercial and Makeshift buildings.

i think SAGADA is very much ready to steal the title SUMMER CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINES from Baguio. It still has the refreshing and cool environment that Baguio used to have.

fengrun

February 11th, 2010, 05:03 PM

we are slowly growing on the tourism aspect, although still not enough. Come to think of it, Thailand who's main economy is probably agriculture, and tourism is much ahead of us. We are a much bigger and English speaking country. We should be better than Thailand. Although negatively, one that draws tourists in Thailand is its sex industry.

But from the way I see it, a lot has improved in the Philippine in terms of attracting tourist. We just need to keep it up, and continue to improve.

wino

February 11th, 2010, 05:17 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 11th, 2010, 06:45 PM

^^ Thailand knows what it meant by International Standard in terms of accommodation.. so tourist really enjoy their stay in the country.. it's in their culture to aspire for "PERFECTION" even in the slightest detail..

sa Pilipinas usong uso ung salitang "PWEDE NA YAN.'
mura nga, very poor quality nman..
in short.. hinde alam ng mga Filipino ang salitang "LUXURY."
One mentality of tourists are.. we don't mind to pay more, as long as everything is perfect! It has to be, coz not everyone are able to tour everyday.
while in fact, most tourists are looking for luxury, coz they have money, that is why they are able to travel.

I actually agree with you two. Being a travel writer I've been to a lot of places in the country.. That's one thing we really have a problem with - correct pricing of accommodations. When I went to Pundaquit, we were paying 1,800 a night on a room at the Canoe Beach Resort- the room was fugly, the showers weren't working, the A/C wasn't working and I had a strand of hair on my overpriced bowl of sinigang (3-4 small pieces of pork). I mean for 1,800Pesos I could get a far better accommodation like that.

Oh yeah, one thing why Thailand is so successful with its tourism industry is because any of these things:

1. Good infrastructure.
2. Bangkok is a major airline hub in SE Asia.
3. Sex industry.
4. And like most of the countries in our region, they are never squeamish in hiding all their flaws.
5. They actually spend a lot of money on advertising abroad.

In the Philippines, we really are a victim of bad PR. We all love to criticize our own country. I noticed most of the Filipinos who says a lot of bad things to say about our country are those who have not even traveled a fraction of the Philippines. These negativity is further reinforced by our local media, our politicians and then picked up by the international press.

In Malaysia, they have really bad slums too which looked similar to some of our worst slums here. What do they do? Fence it and hide it from the tourists. Superficial? Yes. But it works. In Brunei, boatmen charged us 10-15BND for a boat ride their Kampung Ayer (Water Village) which more like wooden shanties on stilts on their muddy (and quite smelly) river.

To think of it, we have more and better destinations in the Philippines. We have the best beaches that I have ever seen, we have a totally diverse culture and colorful history as well as the richest flora and fauna. There is so much to see and be proud of in this country if everyone only knows how to take good care of it, and actually care to visit it.

wino

February 11th, 2010, 06:57 PM

Juan Pilgrim

February 11th, 2010, 07:00 PM

wino

February 11th, 2010, 07:04 PM

^^ I do agree with this too.. but with label quality should come too.. don't forget that.
puros advertisment nga.. pagdating naman ng turista ma didisappoint lang! wala rin.. hinde na babalik un..

Everything and everywhere you look should be picture perfect!

fengrun

February 11th, 2010, 07:19 PM

Juan Pilgrim

February 11th, 2010, 07:24 PM

when they read or hear the word

PHILIPPINES:
Tropical Paradise Islands of ADVENTURE.
(Pristine beaches, Vibrant cities, Colorful festivals...)

FILIPINOS:
Friendly, hardworking and funloving people...
Cultured, well educated, disciplined, tolerant, peace loving people...
Beautiful people...

:horse:

fengrun

February 11th, 2010, 07:30 PM

and to think na sometimes ang mga turistang napunta sa Pilipinas.. ang mga natitikmang pagkain ay mga Karindirya menu.. that's why laging comment ng mga tourists ay uhmmm... food is not so great..

one time nasa puerto gallera ako.. umorder ung European ng spaghetti..
weird thing is.. the spaghetti was topped with hard boiled eggs..
naweirduhan ung lalake.. hinde na tuloy kinain..
now, that is a really bad image and experience for a guy who travelled thousands of kilometers away from home to travel and taste something different.. and get disappointed with spaghetti with hard boiled eggs.. eh kahit ako hinde ko kakainin yun e!! Where is the quality here??
WHAT IS THE IMPRESSION PEOPLE ARE WE GIVING TO THESE TOURISTS?? GOOD THING OUR COUNTRY IS REALLY BEAUTIFUL
and to think that these people are willing to spend big money just to experience different quality food.
again, Filipino food is far away from being luxurious..

I think it's time for the DOT to give attention to the Filipino cuisine.. TRAIN COOKS who will specialize in the tourism industry.

It is the small things that we take for granted that really gives the biggest impression on the tourists.

the Philippines is a beautiful country, with very friendly people but with bad accommodation, and unsatisfying food.
that is the usual comments of travelers.

it's not fair though for that european to generalize everything bad about Filipino food just because some lousy tindera gave him a lousy meal. There's nothing wrong with spaghetti with boiled egg. Maybe he is expecting chef prepared food.

In other stores you will get a much worse service than that. I have experienced one vietnamese bakery where the tindera was holding the bread that I bought with bare hands. I got upset I left.

I avoided that store after that, but I continue to buy from another vietnamese bakery with better, more hygienic service.

wino

February 11th, 2010, 07:44 PM

^^ i don't think he generalized in that situation..
but you see.. Impressions last...
and these small things is what makes places really memorable.
in your case, you never came back to that bakery coz you had a bad experience.. and was disappointed..
it's the same case with tourists.. if we keep on disappointing them.. then who will wanna go back to the Philippines..

how can you be included in the world's most desired places to travel.. if you can't event barely offer something memorable.. in this case food.
well it was memorable alright.. a bad memory..

Specifically, if Puerto Gallera wants to be in the map of most desired destinations in the world.. they should at least be able to offer top quality restaurants too.. not to mention hotels... even I a local Filipino never appreciate the food there..

The only reason i would love to go back to to Puerto Gallera is because of the beautiful view of the clear waters.. never will I miss the food they have there... really really poor..

like i said.. we will never be on top as long as we have this "PWEDE NA" mentality.
in the TOURISM INDUSTRY.. HIGH QUALITY is your main investment.

RonnieR

February 12th, 2010, 07:55 AM

In the Philippines, we really are a victim of bad PR. We all love to criticize our own country. I noticed most of the Filipinos who says a lot of bad things to say about our country are those who have not even traveled a fraction of the Philippines. These negativity is further reinforced by our local media, our politicians and then picked up by the international press.

In Malaysia, they have really bad slums too which looked similar to some of our worst slums here. What do they do? Fence it and hide it from the tourists. Superficial? Yes. But it works. In Brunei, boatmen charged us 10-15BND for a boat ride their Kampung Ayer (Water Village) which more like wooden shanties on stilts on their muddy (and quite smelly) river.

To think of it, we have more and better destinations in the Philippines. We have the best beaches that I have ever seen, we have a totally diverse culture and colorful history as well as the richest flora and fauna. There is so much to see and be proud of in this country if everyone only knows how to take good care of it, and actually care to visit it.

I highlighted the one that is really the truth. That's the difference between the Filipinos and other neighbors. Filipinos like to shoot themselves - as if the worst is here. Being also a traveler abroad, we are not bad. Our slum situation is not the worst.

Yong sa Brunei, totoo yun. Nakita ko yun. I told a Bruenian friend that it's like a shanty if that similar structure is in Manila....you know what...the reply? No, it's not a shanty but a "water house". SEE THE DIFFERENCE. So many tales on how they defend their own....unlike the Filipinos kung makatuligsa sa bansa.

xxxriainxxx

February 12th, 2010, 08:14 AM

[QUOTE=xxxriainxxx;51732195]

3. Sex industry.
[QUOTE]

I don't agree you with this one. No way will the church or most of us would allow sex tourists to come in here. No thanks, but we are better off without tourists if we need to include that.

Thailand had a booming tourism industry, but in exchange for HIV infections. It has the most HIV cases in the world. And the highest in Asia.

Believe me sex tourism exists in the Philippines. In fact these packages are being sold abroad. Angeles City. Burgos (in Makati), and Malate (Manila) for one is high on the sex tourists must-go list in the Philippines. The Church and the government cant really do nothing about this. There is a market and there is a supplier - it is the economics of things.

I agree we are better off without them, but what I meant about in my earlier comment, is that Sex Tourism was tacitly approved and tolerated in Thailand. By all means, we must turn these sex tourists to the police.

BlueCrab

February 12th, 2010, 03:47 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 12th, 2010, 04:06 PM

Maybe it's just a communication problem!:ohno:

PR really my friend.

Dr. Richard Espeno

February 12th, 2010, 05:30 PM

and to think na sometimes ang mga turistang napunta sa Pilipinas.. ang mga natitikmang pagkain ay mga Karindirya menu.. that's why laging comment ng mga tourists ay uhmmm... food is not so great..

one time nasa puerto gallera ako.. umorder ung European ng spaghetti..
weird thing is.. the spaghetti was topped with hard boiled eggs..
naweirduhan ung lalake.. hinde na tuloy kinain..
now, that is a really bad image and experience for a guy who travelled thousands of kilometers away from home to travel and taste something different.. and get disappointed with spaghetti with hard boiled eggs.. eh kahit ako hinde ko kakainin yun e!! Where is the quality here??
WHAT IS THE IMPRESSION PEOPLE ARE WE GIVING TO THESE TOURISTS?? GOOD THING OUR COUNTRY IS REALLY BEAUTIFUL
and to think that these people are willing to spend big money just to experience different quality food.
again, Filipino food is far away from being luxurious..

I think it's time for the DOT to give attention to the Filipino cuisine.. TRAIN COOKS who will specialize in the tourism industry.

It is the small things that we take for granted that really gives the biggest impression on the tourists.

the Philippines is a beautiful country, with very friendly people but with bad accommodation, and unsatisfying food.
that is the usual comments of travelers.

parang sira, ano namang masama sa spaghetti na may hard boiled egg ahhahahahaha kakatawa. Yun lang nasabi na di masarap ang pinoy fud hahahahaha ang babaw.

wino

February 12th, 2010, 09:59 PM

fengrun

February 12th, 2010, 11:01 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 13th, 2010, 04:59 AM

xxxriainxxx

February 13th, 2010, 06:12 AM

It may be awful for him, but what if that's the resto's way of serving spaghetti or puerto galera's spaghetti? If he would have known that Filipinos put catsup on the spaghetti, he might puke.

I tried eating kimchi,but it tasted and smell awful. But it doesn't mean I won't go to korea.

I don't like Korea but Korean food is good in Korea. But that's the problem, there are no other choices but Korean food. The steak was pretty bad too and I paid 75USD for a 3 course meal at the Youksam Bldg (one of their tallest buildings).

Samgyopsal

http://images.xxxriainxxx.multiply.com/image/13/photos/93/500x500/1/photo-1.jpg?et=3t15yynpxVkyKDdiLiiPkA&nmid=98011831

Good thing they've got Filipino stuff.

http://images.xxxriainxxx.multiply.com/image/7/photos/93/500x500/15/photo-15.jpg?et=FFx6ik9sG%2CS284jULoCovg&nmid=98011831

If you complain about the pollution in Manila, it's worse in Seoul

http://images.xxxriainxxx.multiply.com/image/10/photos/92/500x500/182/seoul.jpg?et=pc1bBVM3kVUlhCecvBTarQ&nmid=97569371

http://images.xxxriainxxx.multiply.com/image/8/photos/92/500x500/188/seoulpolluted.jpg?et=ExcbKB%2BTDPHVgIiRLXsosQ&nmid=97569371

All photos taken by myself. If you gonna ask me if it's worth to go to Korea, nope, head out to Japan instead. :)

xxxriainxxx

February 13th, 2010, 06:13 AM

^^^ And no it is not raining... that's smog. Taken from the 63 building viewdeck.

Dr. Richard Espeno

February 13th, 2010, 07:35 AM

^^
dude, i don't think that guy traveled thousands of kilometers away just to taste something that aweful.
If you were in his shoes, would you recommend that place to your friends?
or would you go back there?? i doubt it!

again, what is the Impression of the Philippines being painted here?

definitely that guy didnt travel thousand kilometers just to try the spaghetti with hardboiled egg which by the way isnt aweful in anyway, he travelled to Philippines for more important reason and that is to enjoy and experience our beautiful landscapes and seascapes and our proud and yet humble people.

Are u a culinary expert? Ive already brought a lot of my singaporean and malaysian friends to the Philippines and have travelled from Ilocos, Sagada, Bagiou, tagaytay, Batangas, Pampanga, Manila, Palawan, Boracay, Bohol, cebu, to Cagayan de oro, davao, camiguin .... and i guess eating in Carinderia and be served with spahetti with hard boiled is just a part of the whole adventure/experience of the Philippines, our uniqueness our idiosyncrasies, our diversities our being Filipinos. For my foreign friends Balut is even more disgusting but i will still let my foreign friends to try it.

If i like my friends to have a real italian spaghetti then i will bring them to an italian restaurant and not to a carinderia hahahahahahaha, really too stupid and shallow.

wino

February 14th, 2010, 07:51 AM

That's the thing though, if you are a culinary tourist, you know where to go. And if you are a traveler, you can't generalise an entire country's cuisine just because of one badly made spaghetti. If he is a serious foodie, he should know that the Philippines have a very diverse culinary tradition by region/provinces.

I've had my share of really bad food when traveling abroad but I don't generalise. For example, I got served really bad Chinese food in Shanghai and the spaghetti in my hotel looked like it was swimming in oil and chili sauce. Same in Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore and Korea where I had similar experiences.

dude.. i don't think the guy generalize all food in the Philippines to be like that..
I was just making a point, since most of the comments i read in travel guides that one of their complaints are that food is not really that great in the Philippines.. Face it, FILIPINO Cuisine is not really popular, like those in Japan, China, Thailand and Malaysia..
Most tourist also travel with Food being one of the attractions.. and clearly the Philipines fails in that category.
If the Philippines really wants to take TOURISM seriously.. they should think twice in promoting Filipino Culinary. It is definitely one of the categories that needs IMPROVEMENT.
If the Philippines wanna be on top of the TOURISM WORLD.. they should know how to package a world renown destination, accommodation, culture, service, luxury and Culinary ALL TOGETHER.
we only pass on 2 of these criterias.. SERVICE AND DESTINATION.. the rest needs a big IMPROVEMENT

thanks to Anthony Bourdain for promoting the LECHON, Tourists become curious about the Philippines. now, if we can promote more food like that.. it could help a lot in attracting tourists in the country.. setting aside the spaghetti with egg image..

culinary is something you shouldn't call stupid and shallow.. in the first place.. it's one of the major reasons for FRANCE, ITALY, MEXICO and JAPAN's success in tourism.

TOURISM is a COMPETITION (if it's not, why do other countries invest in billion dollars? as a matter of fact, IT IS THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY IN THE WORLD), hinde sapat yung maganda lang ang place at mababait ang tao.. after all, hinde lang naman ang Pilipinas ang nag iisang bansang may magagandang lugar at mabait na tao... and these are not the only reasons why people travel.. we need to Capitalize on other categories as well.. don't stop there.. we could offer more than that! ALWAYS STRIVE FOR PERFECTION!! wag yung "pwede na yan atittude"..
WE NEED TO COMPETE!!!

WOULDN'T IT BE GOOD IF TOURIST COME BACK TO THE PHILIPPINES, FOOD BEING THE MAIN REASON? :D

xxxriainxxx

February 14th, 2010, 08:42 AM

dude.. i don't think the guy generalize all food in the Philippines to be like that..
I was just making a point, since most of the comments i read in travel guides that one of their complaints are that food is not really that great in the Philippines.. Face it, FILIPINO Cuisine is not really popular, like those in Japan, China, Thailand and Malaysia..
Most tourist also travel with Food being one of the attractions.. and clearly the Philipines fails in that category.
If the Philippines really wants to take TOURISM seriously.. they should think twice in promoting Filipino Culinary. It is definitely one of the categories that needs IMPROVEMENT.
If the Philippines wanna be on top of the TOURISM WORLD.. they should know how to package a world renown destination, accommodation, culture, service, luxury and Culinary ALL TOGETHER.
we only pass on 2 of these criterias.. SERVICE AND DESTINATION.. the rest needs a big IMPROVEMENT

thanks to Anthony Bourdain for promoting the LECHON, Tourists become curious about the Philippines. now, if we can promote more food like that.. it could help a lot in attracting tourists in the country.. setting aside the spaghetti with egg image..

culinary is something you shouldn't call stupid and shallow.. in the first place.. it's one of the major reasons for FRANCE, ITALY, MEXICO and JAPAN's success in tourism.

TOURISM is a COMPETITION, hinde sapat yung maganda ang place at mababait ang tao.. don't stop there.. we could offer more than that! ALWAYS STRIVE FOR PERFECTION!! wag yung "pwede na yan atittude"

WOULDN'T IT BE GOOD IF TOURIST COME BACK TO THE PHILIPPINES, FOOD BEING THE MAIN REASON? :D

dude.. i don't think the guy generalize all food in the Philippines to be like that..
I was just making a point, since most of the comments i read in travel guides that one of their complaints are that food is not really that great in the Philippines.. Face it, FILIPINO Cuisine is not really popular, like those in Japan, China, Thailand and Malaysia..

1. I agree, Filipino cuisine really gets a bad rap from people. I heard this too. But I think it is impossible to tell the entire country to change the way they cook their food because of tourism. What we can do is that our tourism department can actively promote culinary tourism and highlight restaurants who serve really good food, but to order that carinderia to skip egg on their spaghetti, uhm, you are asking for the moon.

Most tourist also travel with Food being one of the attractions.. and clearly the Philipines fails in that category.
If the Philippines really wants to take TOURISM seriously.. they should think twice in promoting Filipino Culinary. It is definitely one of the categories that needs IMPROVEMENT.

2. We are improving man, ever heard of Viajes del Sol? :) They are a culinary tour of restos in Quezon and Laguna. :) I go around eating my way through different provinces too..

wino

February 14th, 2010, 08:47 AM

1. I agree, Filipino cuisine really gets a bad rap from people. I heard this too. But I think it is impossible to tell the entire country to change the way they cook their food because of tourism. What we can do is that our tourism department can actively promote culinary tourism and highlight restaurants who serve really good food, but to order that carinderia to skip egg on their spaghetti, uhm, you are asking for the moon.

yes.. that is why i suggested DOT Training for cooks in specific TOURISM AREAS.

2. We are improving man, ever heard of Viajes del Sol? :) They are a culinary tour of restos in Quezon and Laguna. :) I go around eating my way through different provinces too..
nope.. not familiar
i do hope that we are improving.. but it is not evident in more popular travel destinations in the Provinces.. well maybe except Boracay and Cebu..

marlowe_cano

February 14th, 2010, 09:21 AM

metrosuburban

February 14th, 2010, 09:26 AM

This should be addressed by DOT. We have so many IT professionals...

Cable car system to link La Union, Baguio pushed
By DEXTER A. SEE
February 9, 2010, 6:00pm

BAGUIO CITY – A top official of the Department of Transportation and Communications here said the best way to attract more foreign and domestic tourists to Baguio would be a cable car system from the lowland province of La Union to this mountain resort city.

The proposed cable car system will help shorten the one-and-a-half hour travel time from Baguio to La Union and vice versa to only 30 minutes, and would provide tourists a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

DOTC Undersecretary Giling Mamondiyong said there is no longer room for the expansion of Baguio’s Loakan Airport although it will still remain open for smaller planes. He said the development of the Poro Point International Airport in nearby San Fernando City, La Union will also help strengthen the local tourism industry.

Mamondiyong told local officials that he will request President Arroyo to allocate funds for a feasibility study for a cable car system, which he said will also address the perennial problem of major road closures between Baguio and the lowlands during typhoons and landslides.

The DOTC official admitted that the development of the Poro Point International Airport slowed down a bit because of marketing problems that could result to bigger problems in the future. He said appropriate remedies are being implemented to make the airport operational within the year.

The airport was supposed to begin full operations last October to cater to the increasing number of tourist arrivals in La Union, from where tourists usually motor up to Baguio.

Mamondiyong said the national government is not abandoning plans to rehabilitate and upgrade the Poro Point airport because it will serve as an air transport hub in Northern Luzon.

The official said establishing a cable car system between La Union and Baguio could be one of the best legacies of the Arroyo administration to the people of Northern Luzon who rely on tourism as a major source of income.
http://www.mb.com.ph/node/242696/cable-car-

I think puede to, i was imagining cable cars in Genting or even longer than that! :banana:

xxxriainxxx

February 14th, 2010, 09:42 AM

nope.. not familiar
i do hope that we are improving.. but it is not evident in more popular travel destinations in the Provinces.. well maybe except Boracay and Cebu..

Check this out -

http://www.viajedelsol.org/

Dr. Richard Espeno

February 14th, 2010, 10:45 AM

dude.. i don't think the guy generalize all food in the Philippines to be like that..
I was just making a point, since most of the comments i read in travel guides that one of their complaints are that food is not really that great in the Philippines.. Face it, FILIPINO Cuisine is not really popular, like those in Japan, China, Thailand and Malaysia..
Most tourist also travel with Food being one of the attractions.. and clearly the Philipines fails in that category.
If the Philippines really wants to take TOURISM seriously.. they should think twice in promoting Filipino Culinary. It is definitely one of the categories that needs IMPROVEMENT.
If the Philippines wanna be on top of the TOURISM WORLD.. they should know how to package a world renown destination, accommodation, culture, service, luxury and Culinary ALL TOGETHER.
we only pass on 2 of these criterias.. SERVICE AND DESTINATION.. the rest needs a big IMPROVEMENT

thanks to Anthony Bourdain for promoting the LECHON, Tourists become curious about the Philippines. now, if we can promote more food like that.. it could help a lot in attracting tourists in the country.. setting aside the spaghetti with egg image..

culinary is something you shouldn't call stupid and shallow.. in the first place.. it's one of the major reasons for FRANCE, ITALY, MEXICO and JAPAN's success in tourism.

TOURISM is a COMPETITION (if it's not, why do other countries invest in billion dollars? as a matter of fact, IT IS THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY IN THE WORLD), hinde sapat yung maganda lang ang place at mababait ang tao.. after all, hinde lang naman ang Pilipinas ang nag iisang bansang may magagandang lugar at mabait na tao... and these are not the only reasons why people travel.. we need to Capitalize on other categories as well.. don't stop there.. we could offer more than that! ALWAYS STRIVE FOR PERFECTION!! wag yung "pwede na yan atittude"..
WE NEED TO COMPETE!!!

WOULDN'T IT BE GOOD IF TOURIST COME BACK TO THE PHILIPPINES, FOOD BEING THE MAIN REASON? :D

Hahaha Im not calling culinary stupid and shallow, what im calling stupid and shallow is to say that Pinoy food is not good or inferior because of the spaghetti with hard boiled egg.

Seriously, other foods like Italian, Japanese, Thai etc are no better than Pinoy food, its all about marketing. And as you have said its really is a big competition out there and the best way to compete is for us to be proud of what we have and what we serve....if we can be proud of that spaghetti with hard boiled egg and take it as our own and dont feel like we are serving something inferior then we are one step ahead in our competitiveness.

One reason we cant compete with other nations is that we always feel that we are not at par with other countries, why cant we be good ambassadors of our tourism industry, why should we always focus on our shortcomings ?

And that bad comment on spaghetti with hard boiled eggs tells a lot about us, about our biases against our own. How can you say its awefull without tasting it? You immidiately concluded that its awefull because its unusual, because it doesnt conform to the usual idea of your Italian spaghetti. And if our own people dont take pride on what we have and what we can serve how can you expect other nationalities to like our food? How can we compete?

Italian, japanese, thai etc food are not entirely better than ours, they just know how to sell it; they are proud with their food and it convinced us much more easier.

kevinb

February 14th, 2010, 03:58 PM

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs180.snc1/6774_1210697825885_1181928452_670562_7154534_n.jpg
More of Merloquet Falls in Curuan, Zamboanga City

:shocked:

Ganda!:applause:

wino

February 15th, 2010, 12:20 AM

Seriously, other foods like Italian, Japanese, Thai etc are no better than Pinoy food, its all about marketing. And as you have said its really is a big competition out there and the best way to compete is for us to be proud of what we have and what we serve....if we can be proud of that spaghetti with hard boiled egg and take it as our own and dont feel like we are serving something inferior then we are one step ahead in our competitiveness.

I like how you believe that Filipino food is better than those world renown CULINARIES.
I JUST HOPE, TRAVELERS AGREE WITH YOU.... coz most of the time, they don't.

I WOULD NEVER BE PROUD OF THAT SPAGHETTI WITH HARD BOILED EGG.. It actually looked terrible, trust me!
I can still remember the face of that guy when he had the first taste of it.... He literally put his tongue out and wiped it with napkin.

THE FEELING OF BEING PROUD DOESN'T MAKE THE FOOD TASTE BETTER and IT DOESN'T MAKE YOU MORE COMPETITIVE.... QUALITY DOES!!!
This not a even a question of inferiority, THIS IS A QUESTION ABOUT QUALITY AND STANDARDS(if those cooks even have one).

amigo32

February 15th, 2010, 04:01 AM

FlashCollider

February 15th, 2010, 04:12 AM

jaygold06

February 15th, 2010, 04:42 AM

basta ako gusto ko i try yang spaghetti with hard boiled egg mukhang masarap sa panlasa.. hehehe...

RonnieR

February 15th, 2010, 05:01 AM

basta ako gusto ko i try yang spaghetti with hard boiled egg mukhang masarap sa panlasa.. hehehe...

Ako din, I wanna try that spaghetti with egg. I think it's uniquely Pinoy. I think our food is not universally recognized because of its identity. People say that Filipino food is Spanish or Chinese influenced. Until now, I also don't know what is a real Pinoy food?

I can say it's balut but this is not a pleasant food. I admit that until now, I can't eat that balut (except Penoy)....Lechon? You can find this in other countries (Bali, Indonesia, among others) although Bondarin claimed that our Cebu lechon is the best in the world. Tapsilog from beef tapa is Spanish. Adobo could be.....

It's also due to branding or marketing. Nobody really promotes Filipino food....

Bosnyboy

February 15th, 2010, 06:32 AM

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs200.snc1/6774_1210701865986_1181928452_670578_3279100_n.jpg
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs180.snc1/6774_1210697825885_1181928452_670562_7154534_n.jpg
More of Merloquet Falls in Curuan, Zamboanga City

Wow i luv the blue hues of the fall kinda remind me of pandora in the movie avatar hahaha Does the water there also glow at night? :lol:

Bosnyboy

February 15th, 2010, 06:36 AM

haha, :D ang arte namn nya, at pinunsan pa ang dila:D ano yun nakakalason?:D paiinumin ko sya ng lason kung ganyan sya kumain ng luto ko na spaghetti na may itlog:D j/k:lol:

If i may give my humble opnion on the food matter. I tink our food or the way we prepare our food really lacks proper sanitation. And dumi dumi tignan. I mean the kitchen doesnt have to be spotless or everything made of stainless steel but at least keep it clean. Minsan may mga bangaw or ipis sa kitchen plus the smell, it really stunk. Smell of putrid oil or vinegars or rotten fish are really major turn offs. Saka our food is too salty and too greasy di tlaga in a way masarap at healthy.

Bosnyboy

February 15th, 2010, 06:39 AM

RonnieR

February 15th, 2010, 11:29 AM

at Resorts World Manila

http://www.rwmanila.com/images/entertainment/st_petersburg.jpg
St. Petersburg Sensation

A series of performances of the famed dance troupe from St. Petersburg, Russia, a city known for its artistic and lively performances. The most beautiful girls tantalize the fantasies within two men. Just beyond their grasp but forever enlaced in their imagination.

Show Schedule : 6 times per week
Show Venue : RWM Bar 360

http://www.rwmanila.com/images/entertainment/juliana_rafael.jpg
Juliana & Rafael

The dancing duo from Brazil has come to the shores of Resorts World Manila, performing alongside the colourful and charismatic St. Petersburg Sensation.

Show Schedule : 6 times per week
Show Venue : RWM Bar 360

http://www.rwmanila.com/images/entertainment/dasha_roleva.jpg
Dasha Roleva

With a worldwide acclaim, a beauty of her own, an amazing style in dance, Dasha Roleva from Belarus– Resorts World Manila’s Principal Dancer – performs with the St. Petersburg Sensation.

Show Schedule : 6 times per week
Show Venue : RWM Bar 360

http://www.rwmanila.com/images/entertainment/powerduo.jpg
Power Duo

An acrobatics show where brawn and beauty meet head to head. Gravity defying acts of strength that will make you gasp. Two men. Two women. These acrobats from Belarus thrill their audiences with their breathtaking performances.

Show Schedule : 5 times per week
Show Venue : RWM Bar 360

http://www.rwmanila.com/images/entertainment/martha_joy.jpg
Martha Joy

Serenading Resorts World Manila with her repertoire of classical crossover, rhythm & blues, and pop songs is half Filipina, half Portuguese Martha Joy -- a former Canadian Idol finalist and the newest Viva Entertainment talent.

Show Schedule : every Friday
Show Venue : RWM Bar 360
http://www.rwmanila.com/entertainment.html

^^ They have new performers from Moscow, Russia and Ukraine. Amazing acts/dances esp. the Hula Hoop girl from Russia. :) All those performances are for FREE! Just pay for the drinks you order.

wino

February 15th, 2010, 12:43 PM

spaghetti war begins. tama na yan mga bossing nakakapangliit ang pinagtatalunan natin.

it not really about the spaghetti we are talking about..
it's about QUALITY AND TASTE.. and most of all being COMPETITIVE IN TOURISM, food is just one of those categories.

ewan ko ba kung bakit sa spageti nag concentrate ang comments ng mga taong to.. hehe

amigo32

February 15th, 2010, 12:54 PM

actually sa itlog:D j/k

MatudNilaBaby

February 15th, 2010, 01:19 PM

it not really about the spaghetti we are talking about..
it's about QUALITY AND TASTE.. and most of all being COMPETITIVE IN TOURISM, food is just one of those categories.

ewan ko ba kung bakit sa spageti nag concentrate ang comments ng mga taong to.. hehe

baka na misunderstood niya ang palabok or pancit malabon as spaghetti kay ang noodle puti niya mora sab ug spaghetti. sa cebu mostly spaghetti wala na siya hard boiled egg topping or chicharon. pure tomato sauce ra sometimes with corn beef or ground meat.its either pancit canton, bam-i or bihon ang noodle dishes.

but i learned to cook spaghetti here with mushroom and tomato sauce. italians mostly skip the meat kay puede meatball ilagay as side dish. hilig sila sa shredded cheese as topping.

wino

February 15th, 2010, 09:12 PM

ayoko na pag usapan yang spagetti na yan! haha :D

xxxriainxxx

February 15th, 2010, 09:50 PM

look.. why blame the customer.. e kung sa hinde nman tlga masarap ung pagkakaluto?

pag ikaw ba umorder sa Chinese restaurant at binigyan ka ng pagkaing puros mantika tapos nagreklamo ka e..
pwede ka na nilang tawaging bobo at makitid ang utak??

your logic is unacceptable.. you are just being balat sibuyas..

we are talking about tourism here..
TO PLEASE PEOPLE is the ultimate goal of tourism... and obviously with these kind of attitude these people are showing.. palpak kagad tayo.

now I'm not surprised why the Philippines sucks in this sector.

Actually,that foreigner's complaint like what you have said is may itlog ang spaghetti nya. Did the restaurant said that it's going to serve a Bolognese? Makitid ang utak ng foreigner na yan and obviously not well-traveled kase you should always have an open mind when it comes to travel. may iba ibang culinary peculiarities ang kada lugar. I was shocked when I had a spaghetti swimming in sesame oil when I dined in a 3 star hotel in Shanghai and for a very expensive meal in Seoul, Korea, my steak was too oily and my salad was a coleslaw. Perspective lang ang sinasabi ko- yan ang wala sa kaibigan mo. Now if your friend was complaining about sanitation and cleanliness - then yes, valid ang argument nya and therefore in that case should be reported to the proper authorities because that shouldn't be condoned in any way. Did you check the Viajes del Sol link I posted here? Culinary tourism is on the rise, and yes, obviously there still needs to be improved. But what also needs changing is the perspective of Filipinos about their country and the perspective of people visiting this country.

Wag mong sabihin palpak ang tourism natin. You don't know what you are talking about. Last year, despite the global financial crisis is hitting hard on everyone, our tourism numbers did not go down compared with Malaysia,and Indonesia and many other countries in the region. Our hotels still register a high occupancy rate. Tourism is one of our growth sectors right now and I've been to a lot of communities around the Philippines where tourism is either the bread and butter of most people or have a growing tourism sector to speak of.

Just so you know, the site that I am writing for is non-governmental and non-commercial. I SPEND on my travels most of the time. I don't get paid to write about this country, hoping that somehow people like your friend and yourself have a better perspective about this country.

kalbongdad

February 16th, 2010, 01:45 AM

Wow i luv the blue hues of the fall kinda remind me of pandora in the movie avatar hahaha Does the water there also glow at night? :lol:

para pinotoshop...ibang color ng falls sa surroundings nya....:)

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 03:17 AM

If i may give my humble opnion on the food matter. I tink our food or the way we prepare our food really lacks proper sanitation. And dumi dumi tignan. I mean the kitchen doesnt have to be spotless or everything made of stainless steel but at least keep it clean. Minsan may mga bangaw or ipis sa kitchen plus the smell, it really stunk. Smell of putrid oil or vinegars or rotten fish are really major turn offs. Saka our food is too salty and too greasy di tlaga in a way masarap at healthy.

Sir nakakain ka na ba sa isang restaurant sa abroad - let's say maski sa ASEAN lang? :lol::lol::lol::lol:

I've encountered some of the filthiest hotels and restaurants abroad.

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 03:19 AM

I like how you believe that Filipino food is better than those world renown CULINARIES.
I JUST HOPE, TRAVELERS AGREE WITH YOU.... coz most of the time, they don't.

I WOULD NEVER BE PROUD OF THAT SPAGHETTI WITH HARD BOILED EGG.. It actually looked terrible, trust me!
I can still remember the face of that guy when he had the first taste of it.... He literally put his tongue out and wiped it with napkin.

THE FEELING OF BEING PROUD DOESN'T MAKE THE FOOD TASTE BETTER and IT DOESN'T MAKE YOU MORE COMPETITIVE.... QUALITY DOES!!!
This not a even a question of inferiority, THIS IS A QUESTION ABOUT QUALITY AND STANDARDS(if those cooks even have one).

I agree with Dr. Espeno, it's all about marketing and branding. Perceptions yan eh. Hindi sa mas masarap ang food nila, mas magaling lang ang presentation at talagang binebenta.

But yeah, tama na nga yang spaghetti na yan - a pasta is a pasta is a pasta. Spaghetti is the name of the noodles, sauces could be different. Hindi necessarily lahat ng sauce ng spaghetti is Bolognese. It could be Arabbiata, Putanesca, Carbonara, I even had Spaghetti with satay sauce and another one with tom yum sauce! I cook, and I even do Vigan Longaniza Spaghetti in Bolognese sauce. Bobo lang talaga ang foreigner na yan, masyadong makitid lang ang utak nya pagdating sa kusina at pagkain. Next time pag may kumain na mareklamong foreigner ng Spaghetti na may itlog, sabihin mo Fusion-style yan.

O sya sige, peace na tayo. :)

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 04:26 AM

Philippine photos in Hamburg exhibit

IMANILA, Philippines—The country is featured in a photo exhibit at the Bezirksamt (district office), Wandsbek City in Hamburg, Germany, urging Germans to “visit the Philippines, revel in the archipelago’s warm hospitality and unique mix of cultures and faiths,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

The 60 photographs of the Philippines, 24 of them of the Ati-Atihan festival in Panay, were among the 5,000 taken by German photographer Hans-Jürgen Odrowski, who was in the country last January.

At the opening night,. Odrowski said that if Rio and New Orleans have Mardi Gras then Kalibo has its spectacular Ati-Atihan festival with the attendant round-the-clock feasting, dancing to hypnotic drumbeats, and procession of fantastic masked costumes.

Third Secretary Anna Marie P. de Vera attended the photo exhibit opening last 3 February.

Many of the visitors became enthusiastic in visiting the Philippines and helped themselves with the tourism materials on display, the DFA said.

The photo exhibit will remain open until 26 February.

wino

February 16th, 2010, 04:36 AM

amigo32

February 16th, 2010, 04:41 AM

:D:D:D

seneryoso ba ang awayan ng spaghetti at itlog:D

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 04:55 AM

look.. why blame the customer.. e kung sa hinde nman tlga masarap ung pagkakaluto?
BLAMING and CRITICIZING THE CUSTOMER DOESN'T help the tourism sector...

pag ikaw ba umorder sa Chinese restaurant at binigyan ka ng pagkaing puros mantika tapos nagreklamo ka e..
pwede ka na nilang tawaging bobo at makitid ang utak??

your logic is unacceptable.. you are just being balat sibuyas..

we are talking about tourism here..
TO PLEASE PEOPLE and KEEP THEM HAPPY is the ultimate goal of tourism... and obviously with these kind of attitude these people are showing, sila pa ang nagagalit.. palpak kagad tayo. what happened to the CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT concept?

ganito lang naman 2 attitude na pede mong pagpilian e..
1.) tawagin mong maarte ang customer mo dahil hinde nagustuhan ang luto mo
2.) take it as a challenge and study more how to improve the quality of your work and please your customer

typical Filipino reaction is the first one..
now I'm not surprised why the Philippines sucks in this sector.

Actually,that foreigner's complaint like what you have said is may itlog ang spaghetti nya. Did the restaurant said that it's going to serve a Bolognese? Makitid ang utak ng foreigner na yan and obviously not well-traveled kase you should always have an open mind when it comes to travel. may iba ibang culinary peculiarities ang kada lugar. I was shocked when I had a spaghetti swimming in sesame oil when I dined in a 3 star hotel in Shanghai and for a very expensive meal in Seoul, Korea, my steak was too oily and my salad was a coleslaw. Perspective lang ang sinasabi ko- yan ang wala sa kaibigan mo. Now if your friend was complaining about sanitation and cleanliness - then yes, valid ang argument nya and therefore in that case should be reported to the proper authorities because that shouldn't be condoned in any way. Did you check the Viajes del Sol link I posted here? Culinary tourism is on the rise, and yes, obviously there still needs to be improved. But what also needs changing is the perspective of Filipinos about their country and the perspective of people visiting this country.

Wag mong sabihin palpak ang tourism natin. You don't know what you are talking about. Last year, despite the global financial crisis is hitting hard on everyone, our tourism numbers did not go down compared with Malaysia,and Indonesia and many other countries in the region. Our hotels still register a high occupancy rate. Tourism is one of our growth sectors right now and I've been to a lot of communities around the Philippines where tourism is either the bread and butter of most people or have a growing tourism sector to speak of.

Just so you know, the site that I am writing for is non-governmental and non-commercial. I SPEND on my travels most of the time. I don't get paid to write about this country, hoping that somehow people like your friend and yourself have a better perspective about this country.

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 05:02 AM

And p.s. if it is a really badly done spaghetti, your friend should have returned it and spoke to the manager. That's what I have done in the past. I refused to pay and spoke to the manager of the restaurant if the food is of questionable quality. Simple lang. Pero kung dahil may itlog lang ang spaghetti nya. I am sorry, but nakakatawa yan.

wino

February 16th, 2010, 05:13 AM

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 05:38 AM

hello read my post.. i never mentioned that he was my friend.. i was just observing him from the other table lol :P

just a question..
if you don't like a food would you force it down your throat just not to offend the cook?

actually the guy was discreet in his dissatisfaction with the food.
he did not even complain about it.. nor told the waitress how horrible it was..
he did not eat the food and left quietly...
it just happened that i saw his reaction.

calling him stupid and mababaw is out of line..
nagiging balat sibuyas lang kayo..

THE CUSTOMER HAS NO FAULTS IF THE FOOD IS NOT SATISFYING, BLAME THE COOK!
now do you think that experience will help the tourism industry?
you can blame and criticize that guy all you want.. but do you think that would help?

MY POINT SINCE THE START IS.. IF WE WANT THE TOURISM INDUSTRY TO GET BETTER, WE NEED A BIG IMPROVEMENT WITH OUR FOOD OFFERINGS! now what is wrong with that?
is it really that hard to comprehend? i was just wishing for more high quality foods in tourist destinations like Puerto Gallera.
Can't tourist enjoy the beauty of our nation while relaxing in a comfortable first class accommodation with excellent food all together??

1, hello read my post.. i never mentioned that he was my friend.. i was just observing him from the other table lol :P

Kala ko friend mo eh kasi you were so riled up. :lol:

2. just a question..
if you don't like a food would you force it down your throat just not to offend the cook?

actually the guy was discreet in his dissatisfaction with the food.
he did not even complain about it.. nor told the waitress how horrible it was..
he did not eat the food and left quietly...
it just happened that i saw his reaction.

You complain. Because you are paying for that food. I would have had complained. How do you expect people to know that they needed to change when you dont give them a chance to explain?

3. calling him stupid and mababaw is out of line..
nagiging balat sibuyas lang kayo..

What about lack of perspective? Yun lang yun eh.

4. THE CUSTOMER HAS NO FAULTS IF THE FOOD IS NOT SATISFYING, BLAME THE COOK!
now do you think that experience will help the tourism industry?
you can blame and criticize that guy all you want.. but do you think that would help?

Well, of course it wouldn't as the deed has been done, but hopefully when that foreigner traveled more - he would learn to have a plate of perspective next time he is eating in a restaurant.

5.MY POINT SINCE THE START IS.. IF WE WANT THE TOURISM INDUSTRY TO GET BETTER, WE NEED A BIG IMPROVEMENT WITH OUR FOOD OFFERINGS! now what is wrong with that?

There is nothing wrong with improving our culinary standards, what I have a problem with is the way you presented your side. Hindi sa lahat ng oras, tayo ang mali. Yan ang mahirap sa ating mga Pilipino, we are so quick to self-flagellate. Paano nga tayo nga mag-iimprove nyan? When I travel, I give every place I eat a chance to prove itself. Unless obvious na madumi talaga, syempre tatanggi ako. Perspective lang po ang point ko. Every self-respecting traveler should get one.[/B]

[B]6. is it really that hard to comprehend? i was just wishing for more high quality foods in tourist destinations like Puerto Gallera.

Btw, Puerto Galera po ang spelling. isang "L" lang sa Galera.

7. Can't tourist enjoy the beauty of our nation while relaxing in a comfortable first class accommodation with excellent food all together??

Not all travelers can afford first-class accommodations. Obviously, if that foreigner can afford more, he would have checked in to a better hotel with a better restaurant.

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 05:44 AM

A food lovers guide to Filipino Cuisine
by Scott Allford
Scott M. Allford has lived and worked in Australia and South Korea and has travelled extensively throughout Asia- Mongolia, China, Tibet, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia and Japan – fell in love with the Philippines and decided to allocate at least two years to comprehensively cover the country

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LUZON

Mostly unknown or unrecognised, cuisine in the Philippines is a welcome delight for the traveller. Although the Philippines can be considered as ‘meat mad’, the combinations of flavours across the archipelago will tantalise the taste buds of any food lover. In most cities across the country you will usually be in sight of somewhere that sells food. All of the world cuisines are available here. However, usually the tastiest of these are the Filipino foods. Certain dishes are available across the nation and some are specific to the provinces from which they originated. This is my top cuisine list of Filipino food in Luzon to help any traveller eat their way from north to south across the Philippine’s largest island.

http://tourism-philippines.com/images/luzon-cuisine1.jpg
My first attempt at Pork Adobo
Photo by Scott Allford

The most common Filipino dish actually has Spanish roots. And every household in the country has its own version. Of course I’m talking about Adobo. This mix of bay leaves, vinegar, and soy sauce comes in so many different varieties and variations it’s impossible to list them all here. Out of the main three (Pork, Chicken, and Squid Adobo) Pork Adobo would have to be my favourite. Every kitchen has its own spin on this dish and you’ll be able to taste them all over the Philippines. In my house we do a gourmet version and add muscovado (raw sugar), Worcestershire Sauce, rosemary and thyme. So delicious!

Heading to Northern Luzon, I had heard about the delicious taste of Empanadas in Ilocos Norte and was not let down. Inside is a mixture of egg, shredded vegetables and longganiza inside deep fried thin pastry pockets. The best thing to complement an Ilocos Norte Empanada is to dip it in a little Sukang Iloco (Ilocos vinegar), the taste is amazing. The best places to get your Empanadas are at Dap-ayan in Laoag City and Glory’s Empanada in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.

While in Ilocos do yourself a favour and pick up some Bagnet. This deep-fried pork is full of artery clogging goodness. It is possible to get bagnet in Manila but as it originates from Ilocos then that’s the most authentic (and cheapest) place to get some.

While still in the far north of Luzon, I would like to mention the delicious Pinikpikan chicken dish you can find in Sagada, Mountain Province. However, for this dish, the chicken is beaten with a stick to bring blood to the surface and apparently improve the flavour. I had already eaten Pinikpikan before I fully understood how the meal was prepared and felt really sorry for eating my delicious lunch.

After enjoying the tastes of Ilocos you can continue south through La Union to the province of Pangasinan. Famous for the Hundred Islands this province is also famous for its food, the best of which has to be Broiled Boneless Bangus. Bangus (Milkfish) is the national fish of the Philippines, it’s not an overpowering fishy taste and not too heavy. In Pangasinan they can fry up some bangus for you that is so delicious that it will be a meal you won’t soon forget. The crispy fish breaks apart and melt in your mouth and is a true delight in every bite. There are many good places to pick up some broiled Boneless Bangus in Pangasinan, but a good place we stumbled across was right by the departure point to the Hundred Islands National Park at Lucap wharf. Before you leave Pangasinan don’t forget to buy the local sticky rice and coconut treat called Tupig. It’s kind of like the Bounty bars we get in Australia without the chocolate.

Heading south-west another famous dish you will find in many places in Central Luzon is Sisig. Sisig is made from parts of a pig’s head and liver, soaked in vinegar and then seasoned with calamansi (native lime) and chilli. This delicious dish in its current style, was invented in Angeles City, Pampanga back in 1974 by Lucia Cunanan. So the best place to get a good taste of this tasty treat is at Aling Lucing’s restaurant in Angeles City, Pampanga. Either that or you can attend the annual Sisig Festival held in Pampanga in December.

South of Manila in the Province of Laguna you will come across the delicious Buko Pie. Every time I pass through this province I have to pick up at least one. It is buko (coconut meat) strips in a pie. Not overly sweet or too savoury it is the perfect after dinner treat. The best place to get your Buko Pie from is the numerous Collette’s roadside stores. There are other brands but I think Collette’s are the best.

Next to Laguna is the province of Batangas and here you can find the delicious Bulalo. This delicious beef, bone marrow and vegetable soup will satiate any hunger (also good cure for a hangover as I discovered once). You can find Bulalo in many different restaurants and malls across the Philippines but the best place is Leslie’s in Tagaytay, Batangas. There are other branches of Leslie’s where you can also pick up a huge serving of this dish for a good price.

Heading over to Southeast Luzon you’ll come to the Bicol region. And the number one must have meal to have here is Bicol Express. Rumoured to be named from the train journey between Manila and Bicol this dish is made from coconut milk, shrimp paste or stockfish, onion, pork, garlic with a generous portion of spicy chillies and is slightly Malaysian in taste, but better. Sadly, you may have to search far and wide to find a good version of this famous dish. We found a really good one at Mrs. Doyet Garcia’s Lutong Bahay, a small eatery on Mercedes Road in Daet, Camarines Norte. Also while you’re in Bicol don’t forget to pick up some super yum Pili nuts from any of the roadside stalls.

After travelling from North Luzon right down into Southeastern Luzon and eating these delectable dishes along the way you will have gotten a good snapshot of the amazing tastes this island has to offer. Although there are more dishes I could mention this is a good start for any traveler and I don’t want to spoil your surprise when you discover other mouthwatering meals along the way.

VISAYAS/MINDANAO

Heading south from Luzon, you’ll come to the central and southern regions of the Philippines. These are the islands of the Visayas and Mindanao and they offer up some internationally acclaimed taste sensations.

Starting off with one of the most famous and one of my personal favourites, in the Visayas on the island of Cebu you’ll find the super succulent Lechon Cebu. Recently Anthony Bourdain of Travel Channel show No Reservations fame commented on his love of Lechon Cebu, “It can now be said that of all the whole roasted pigs I’ve had all over the world, the slow roasted lechon I had on Cebu was the best.” And I would have to whole heartedly agree with him. Slowly roasted and turned for hours the meat is so succulent and the skin is super crispy. Be warned that the skin is the part favoured by many so be sure you get a piece before it’s all gone.

Heading over from Cebu to the Island of Negros a number of local delicacies await. First of all is the Famous Piaya which can be found at Bongbong’s Pasalubong Center in Bacolod City. It’s made with flakey wheat flour dough and stuffed with muscovado, and is kind of like the ultimate pop-tart. Another favourite which can be found all over the Philippines but originated in Negros is Chicken Inasal. It’s basically chicken marinated in a mix of vinegar, calamansi, garlic and annatto seeds. The chicken is put onto skewers and grilled and the smell that wafts from this delicious grilled chicken dish is amazing.

Still in the Visayas but over in the Island of Panay in the city of Iloilo, make sure you stop by Ted’s La Paz Batchoy. While you can find branches of Ted’s in other locations around the Philippines, but the branch in Iloilo is the original and was started over 60 years ago in the La Paz market, Iloilo by Federico Guillergan, Sr. La Paz Batchoy is a noodle soup made with different variations of ingredients including: pork organs, crushed pork cracklings, shrimp, vegetables, chicken stock, chicken breast, beef loin and round noodles. It’s a really great meal for any time of the day and offers some really unique tastes.

Going south to Mindanao you will come across the island of Camiguin. While Camiguin is more famous for its lanzones fruit (which I didn’t like until I tried Camiguin Lanzones which were delicious), I fell in love with their pastel bread. This sweet bread with a gooey candied milk centre will win over any sweet tooth. Even though I do like my sweets, I could only eat a maximum of three in one sitting before my stomach was overwhelmed by the sugar in Pastel bread. They come in a variety of flavours but the original is a must have for any Camiguin visitor. While you can pick a box from the Benoni port or the Cagayan De Oro airport, you can also go right to the source and get a box in Mambajao, Camiguin.

Finally in the province of Lanao Del Norte you can pick up a drink that you’ll never forget. In the city of Iligan you can pick up a delightfully sweet and flavourful Durian Shake from Iliganon. While many people have a hard time getting past the smell of durian (and it really does stink), the fruit itself is really tasty. It also seems that in Mindanao durian tastes better than anywhere else in the Philippines. The Durian shake is so sweet and super thick and Iliganon is a really good place to sit back, relax and enjoy.

For other famous foods in Mindanao you should make a trip into Bukidnon and the Del Monte Pineapple plantation. Here you will find some of the tastiest pineapples on the planet. At the Del Monte Golf Club in Manolo Fortich you can pick up a reasonably priced three course meal with a tasty pineapple shake. Also famous for food in Mindanao is the city of General Santos in the southern province of Sarangani. General Santos is known as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines and every September they have a Tuna Festival with a Tuna Culinary Contest where delicious tuna treats can be tasted by all.

While this is only a small sample of all the different foods you will encounter while travelling around the Philippines, they’re my favourites. I’m sure that on my future travels around these regions, new taste sensations which will truly delight the senses await. But in the end a great thing about the Philippines is that at the end of a long days travel, it’s really good to know that you can sit down to a truly delicious meal which is familiar yet exotic at the same time.

hakz2007

February 16th, 2010, 12:01 PM

France, Monaco consuls call on PGMA, begin 5-day RP familiarization tour (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=12&sid=&nid=12&rid=258916)

MANILA, Feb. 15 (PNA) -- Honorary consuls from France and Monaco called on President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in Malacañang Monday morning.

Honorary Consuls Jean Jacques Rinck and Guy Alain Lafont de Sentenac of France and Patricia Zobel de Ayala of Monaco are on a five-day tour of the Philippines to gather knowledge that will help them promote the country as a trade and tourist destination in their places of origin.

Joining the President in welcoming the visitors were Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo and Minister and Consul General of the Philippines in Paris Rosalita Prospero.

The familiarization tour is an initiative of the honorary consuls themselves and the Philippine Embassy in Paris.

According to Ambassador Prospero, the two will represent the Philippines in Monaco, Lyon and Toulossa, and the tour will help them do their job.

Honorary consuls are men and women of consequence who complement the efforts of the country’s foreign service. (PNA)

MatudNilaBaby

February 16th, 2010, 02:22 PM

jpdm

February 16th, 2010, 03:15 PM

:D:D:D

seneryoso ba ang awayan ng spaghetti at itlog:D

:lol::lol::lol:

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 03:29 PM

:lol::lol::lol:

lintik na itlog yan!! :bash::bash::bash:
:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

fengrun

February 16th, 2010, 03:42 PM

off topic! this is not a cooking thread. Please get back on topic

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 03:43 PM

off topic! this is not a cooking thread. Please get back on topic

Not really sir - It was on the discussion of culinary tourism which was being discussed earlier.

wino

February 16th, 2010, 04:29 PM

7. Can't tourist enjoy the beauty of our nation while relaxing in a comfortable first class accommodation with excellent food all together??

Not all travelers can afford first-class accommodations. Obviously, if that foreigner can afford more, he would have checked in to a better hotel with a better restaurant.

lack of perspective???
o c'mon don't give me that.. so illogical.. he disliked the food and you call it lack of perspective?? why are you attacking that guy for anyway? he isn't even the topic here.. the topic is the food that pinoy's are offering to tourists.. most of them are below quality.

you are really missing my point..
haaaayss...
think outside of the box for once.. .

it is true that not all travelers can afford first class... specially PINOY travellers.. but FOREIGN travelers are cash rich so most of the time they DEMAND what's best and don't care about money.. the question is.. do we even have first class food and accommodations for those who can afford it?? that is my point!
they should at least have a choice to go to a cheap or expensive restaurant whenever they want to..

question: have you travelled outside the country? maybe perhaps tourist destinations like Mexico, Thailand or Hawaii?
what do you think that they have that the Philippines don't??
compare compare compare.. now, how can we compete with those big players??

we shouldn't be a SMALL THINKER. think big.
we shouldn't limit Philippine tourism to cheap quality of food and accommodations.

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 05:51 PM

lack of perspective???
o c'mon don't give me that.. so illogical.. he disliked the food and you call it lack of perspective?? why are you attacking that guy for anyway? he isn't even the topic here.. the topic is the food that pinoy's are offering to tourists.. most of them are below quality.

you are really missing my point..
haaaayss...
think outside of the box for once.. .

it is true that not all travelers can afford first class... specially PINOY travellers.. but FOREIGN travelers are cash rich so most of the time they DEMAND what's best and don't care about money.. the question is.. do we even have first class food and accommodations for those who can afford it?? that is my point!
they should at least have a choice to go to a cheap or expensive restaurant whenever they want to..

question: have you travelled outside the country? maybe perhaps tourist destinations like Mexico, Thailand or Hawaii?
what do you think that they have that the Philippines don't??
compare compare compare.. now, how can we compete with those big players??

problem with you is.. you are a SMALL THINKER. think big.
you are limiting yourself to cheap food and accommodations..

1, o c'mon don't give me that.. so illogical.. he disliked the food and you call it lack of perspective?? why are you attacking that guy for anyway? he isn't even the topic here.. the topic is the food that pinoy's are offering to tourists.. most of them are below quality.

Just because he disliked the food then the entire country's culinary traditions are crap? Food being offered in our restaurants are food offered for all, not just tourists! What you are saying is waaaaay illogical and doesn't make any sense. You can't force every restaurant in the Philippines to adhere to a certain cooking standard! That's why you have the Michelin stars, there are separate categories for each restaurant and the quality of the dishes that they serve! Who are you to say that all the food served to tourists are of low quality? You are getting way ahead of yourself. Sige nga. Name one country where the government forced every restaurant to serve a certain standard of cooking. Name one country who sent all restaurant owners and its chefs to cooking school. Sige nga?

2. you are really missing my point..
haaaayss...
think outside of the box for once.. .

Dude, keep your feet on the ground. You are asking for the moon.

3. it is true that not all travelers can afford first class... specially PINOY travellers.. but FOREIGN travelers are cash rich so most of the time they DEMAND what's best and don't care about money.. the question is.. do we even have first class food and accommodations for those who can afford it?? that is my point!

Where did you get the idea that "FOREIGN travelers are cash rich most of the time"? I was at NAIA this afternoon and there was a French couple who doesn't want to ride the cab because it was too expensive! I know a lot of foreign backpackers that I've met in my travels who scrimp on their travels. Geez, man, where are you getting these ideas? You don't have any clue at all when it comes to tourism do you? I have traveled first class and traveled budget in this country - have you? Even Batanes have accommodations that costs 14K a night. I should know I stayed at Fundacion Pacita last December 2009. Marinduque, Albay, CamSur, Ilocos, Rizal, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Zamboanga, Palawan, Quezon and many others have top notch, first class accommodations. Please answer my question, have you traveled to and within these provinces?

Travel the country first and we will talk again.

4. question: have you travelled outside the country? maybe perhaps tourist destinations like Mexico, Thailand or Hawaii?
what do you think that they have that the Philippines don't??
compare compare compare.. now, how can we compete with those big players??

Yes, I have traveled abroad. Several times. I travel abroad at least once a year. One of the problems with our tourism sector is that we lack basic infrastructure to support it - roads, reliable ferries, cheaper airfares. We used to have a problem with lack of hotels, but that area is getting addressed as more and more rooms are being added as new hotels open. The way to compete with those countries is to have the infrastructure to support it AND huge investments in promotions. And yeah - political stability.

5. problem with you is.. you are a SMALL THINKER. think big.
you are limiting yourself to cheap food and accommodations..

Ad hominem "wino". Wow, seriously - you have no idea of who I am. Hindi ko kailangan magmalaki sa yo.You don't have the slightest idea of how the tourism industry works at all.

Like I said, travel the Philippines first and we will talk. Otherwise, it is no use talking to you and I don't want to waste my time dealing with your passive-aggressiveness.

xxxriainxxx

February 16th, 2010, 05:57 PM

Btw, Scott (The Aussie writer above) and I travel together around the Philippines and abroad. Here is a response to one of his articles by a Manila Standard column:

Our own worst enemy

If you are your own worst critic, people may eventually start believing that you are as bad as you say you are, even if you yourself believe that you really aren’t. Put another way, if we Filipinos started emphasizing our good qualities instead of obsessing on our problems and failings, then perhaps the rest of the world will begin to appreciate us better as a country and as a people, as well.

An Australian, Scott M. Allford, has a theory about why the Philippines has an unsavory reputation for being a poor, corrupt and violent country to outsiders. Writing in the Tourism Philippines Web site (tourism-philippines.com), Allford says that it has to do with the worst perceptions about the Philippines becoming iconic images unfairly representing the entire country.

“If you live outside of the Philippines and you watch or read the news, you may feel very justified in believing that the Philippines is a very dangerous country [s]avaged by typhoons, earthquakes, volcanoes, floods and terrorist attacks. You may also be assured in your belief that it is a poor country [by] images of children picking through garbage, slums and corruption scandals broadcast in most international news reports. I am not going to deny that these things are true; however, they are not all that the country contains. Not every person in the Philippines is poor, a terrorist, or a victim of terror. In fact, other countries around the world suffer from these same problems, yet they do not become iconic images of those nations,” Allford writes.

Sometimes, according to Allford, other countries that have the same problems as we do find that it somehow makes them feel better to believe that things are a lot worse in the Philippines. To illustrate this, he relates meeting a German journalist at a Makati rooftop party attended by socialites and expatriates and asking the latter why this country is always portrayed in a negative way in the international media.

The German, before being “whisked away by a group of Filipino socialites,” gave a two-part answer: First, he said he has found that he could not sell any stories about the Philippines in Germany unless they were about poverty, violence or corruption. Second, he said that because there is so much poverty, violence, and corruption there is really nothing else to report on in the Philippines.

Contemplating on the irony of the German sipping red wine with socialites at a posh Makati setting made Allford contemplate the irony of the so-called journalist’s explanation. “Germany, a developed country, has slums,” he concludes. “But if the focus can be moved away from the poverty in the developed countries and put on some islands way out in the Pacific Ocean, then people in developed countries can feel a little bit better.”

Indeed, as the well-travelled Allford explains, all of the supposedly endemic, intractable and, yes, iconic problems of this country exist in varying degrees in other countries, as well. “I remember growing up in Australia [and] taking garbage out to the dump after cleaning up the garden. I would see Aboriginals picking through the garbage for food. Yet that has never been an iconic image of Australia. I went to ‘water villages’ in Malaysia and Brunei and thought how similar they look to slums in Manila. Yet ‘water villages’ are tourist attractions and the slums here are not.

“I lived in South Korea a few hundred kilometers away from the DMZ, with jets and helicopters flying overhead all the time it felt like a war zone. In the spring, I would have 40 tanks facing in the direction of my apartment. Yet South Korea is generally not viewed or branded as a dangerous country. And South Korea has slums too.”

But, as all Filipinos know and many foreigners who have visited this country can testify, there is much more to the Philippines than all the negative reports about poverty, violence and corruption covered by the international media. The trouble is how to get that message across and how to shake off the widespread belief (shared by some Filipinos themselves, actually) that we live in some sort of hell on earth, instead of the virtual paradise that people from other countries who have come to our shores, met our people and who have become our most energetic boosters like Allford have discovered.

As upbeat as these people are about us, they understand that it will take some doing to change the bad rep that we as a country have to deal with in the eyes of those who live in other, supposedly better-off countries. Or, as Allford writes: “Perhaps the time will come when people outside the Philippines will come to realize that the branded image of the Philippines portrayed in the media is only a small piece of the full picture of this country.”

* * *

How many times have we chafed, for example, at the not-so-subtle implication in the international media that the entire Philippines is a hotbed of terrorist kidnappers every time a gang of Muslim bandits abducts a foreigner in the deep south for some quick cash? And we get to help at all from even the diplomats that we act as generous hosts to in Manila when they issue “travel advisories” to their citizens when some foreigner like that unfortunate Irish Columban missionary is kidnapped in the far-flung corners of Mindanao—as if no foreigner should even be in Makati when such an incident takes place in the hinterlands a thousand kilometers away.

But, of course, no one can out-criticize Filipinos like the Filipinos themselves, as we do every single day in our own media—we sigh, moan and rail at the slightest perceived injustice and unfortunate event, as if we are a cursed race that has had nothing but bad government, bad times and bad luck. And yet, every time some foreign sitcom, newspaper writer or dictionary entry makes the slightest derogatory mention of us as a people, we immediately act like we’ve been deeply insulted as a people—forgetting that we have all, at one time or another, probably made worse remarks about ourselves.

Indeed, if we are to stop people in other countries from thinking that we live in a hopelessly corrupt, poor and dangerous country, perhaps we should begin by ending our own persistent and oft-stated belief that we do so in the first place. We can’t reasonably call out people from other countries for their apparent bias against us unless we start revising our own views about ourselves.

Again, as Allford wrote, believing in the Philippines doesn’t mean failing to acknowledge that serious problems like poverty, corruption, natural disasters and even terrorism exist. But we can’t let all the negative stuff become who were are, entirely, as a people and or even become the default definition of our country in the eyes of people who haven’t even been here.

And those who have visited, like Allford, often fail to understand how we got such as bad reputation to begin with. To quote Allford once again: “With all that this country has to offer, I am baffled as to why it has been branded in such a negative way by the international media. Those who come to the Philippines to seek out the beauty of this country will not be disappointed. However, first-time travelers to the Philippines should beware, just like me and many other foreigners, this amazing country may compel you to stay quite a bit longer than you initially planned.”

Of course, it’s impossible to expect everyone who has developed a negative view of the Philippines to visit us anytime soon—if anything, their more or less firm belief that we are the sort of country they should avoid if they ever get to leave their own countries is reinforced every time they read or hear something bad about the Philippines. But perhaps if more and more foreigners like Allford—and more and more Filipinos, as well—begin looking at the good things in this country, our battered international reputation could improve.

And we can’t do much to change the way people think of us unless we start doing so ourselves. Of course, if Filipinos do believe that they live in the worst possible place in the worst possible time under the worst possible circumstances, then there’s no point in even trying.

wino

February 16th, 2010, 06:06 PM

1, o c'mon don't give me that.. so illogical.. he disliked the food and you call it lack of perspective?? why are you attacking that guy for anyway? he isn't even the topic here.. the topic is the food that pinoy's are offering to tourists.. most of them are below quality.

Just because he disliked the food then the entire country's culinary traditions are crap? Food being offered in our restaurants are food offered for all, not just tourists! What you are saying is waaaaay illogical and doesn't make any sense. You can't force every restaurant in the Philippines to adhere to a certain cooking standard! That's why you have the Michelin stars, there are separate categories for each restaurant and the quality of the dishes that they serve! Who are you to say that all the food served to tourists are of low quality? You are getting way ahead of yourself. Sige nga. Name one country where the government forced every restaurant to serve a certain standard of cooking. Name one country who sent all restaurant owners and its chefs to cooking school. Sige nga?

Dude, keep your feet on the ground. You are asking for the moon.

if there is sense in talking to you in the first place..
who said that "the entire country's culinary traditions are crap?" just because of one guy??
the hell.. i based my opinion on all the travel comments made by foreigners on International travel magazines and travel information sites. that story was just an example.
I'm not saying that FILIPINO cuisine is the WORST. what I'm saying is.. IT IS NOT ENOUGH YET TO COMPETE IN TOURISM GLOBALLY. THERE IS STILL MUCH ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT.
FILIPINO CUISINE IS NOT REALLY THAT BAD.. BUT IT'S ALSO NOT EXCELLENT. to be globally competent, we should strive for excellence.

and who said that we should force every restaurant in the Philippines to adhere to a certain cooking standard?? Ironically, it was you who first mentioned this.
I only suggested for DOT to start a training campaign for cooks in SPECIFIED TOURIST AREAS.
PROBLEM WITH YOU IS OVER ACTING KA
may pa moon moon ka pa jan.. ang OA!
and you seriously believe that's entirely IMPOSSIBLE??

STUPIDO KA BA?
I was just expressing my opinion that we could offer more than what we are offering right now.

and who cares even if you are the secretary of DOT..
my opinion is as good as yours. kahit ikaw pa si Einstein.. LIKE I SAID BEFORE.. and I WILL REPEAT AGAIN.. FILIPINO TOURISM NEEDS A BIG IMPROVEMNENT IN THE FOOD DEPARTMENT.

Dude, you even agree with me before that "Filipino cuisine really gets a bad rap from people." remember?? go back to page 3
talk about inconsistency..

narthuril

February 16th, 2010, 06:12 PM

Just because he disliked the food then the entire country's culinary traditions are crap? Food being offered in our restaurants are food offered for all, not just tourists! What you are saying is waaaaay illogical and doesn't make any sense. You can't force every restaurant in the Philippines to adhere to a certain cooking standard! That's why you have the Michelin stars, there are separate categories for each restaurant and the quality of the dishes that they serve! Who are you to say that all the food served to tourists are of low quality? You are getting way ahead of yourself. Sige nga. Name one country where the government forced every restaurant to serve a certain standard of cooking. Name one country who sent all restaurant owners and its chefs to cooking school. Sige nga?

yung Japanese Chef may license dapat haha

http://www.flickr.com/photos/osakajon/117507536/

wino

February 16th, 2010, 07:01 PM

actually food is not the most complained thing in the Philippines..

TRAVEL time in itself is the most notorious for travelers in the Philippines...
bumpy roads.. unsafe transportation.. pollution.. flight delays... security concerns while traveling.. etc..

I am just really thankful for the Natural beauty of the country.. and the warm people. eto lang ata ang nagpapabalik sa mga turista sa bansa.
but thanks to the government we are heading for the right direction... we just need to keep on IMPROVING.

Aerin

February 16th, 2010, 11:08 PM

Can't help joining the fray (yikes!!)..

culinary is something you shouldn't call stupid and shallow.. in the first place.. it's one of the major reasons for FRANCE, ITALY, MEXICO and JAPAN's success in tourism.

Let's see...

France - maybe, if you can decipher the menu, especially if you venture out of Paris. Had some hits and misses here - I went to a Chinese restaurant somewhere in Paris and had the worst dim sum ever (food seemed barely cooked, didn't even arrive hot). But I think their desserts are sublime.

Italy - the dining experience mainly consisted of American fast foods + pasta + pizza. Pasta was very basic - noodles, sauce, grated cheese.

Mexico - just went here last month but can't remember much of the food. How odd. I think it was okay?

Japan - exceptional food, for the most part, though it can be pricey (ex. $100 beef dinner in Kobe). I think they do the pasta dishes better than the Italians themselves (Blasphemy!!).

If i may give my humble opnion on the food matter. I tink our food or the way we prepare our food really lacks proper sanitation. And dumi dumi tignan. I mean the kitchen doesnt have to be spotless or everything made of stainless steel but at least keep it clean. Minsan may mga bangaw or ipis sa kitchen plus the smell, it really stunk. Smell of putrid oil or vinegars or rotten fish are really major turn offs. Saka our food is too salty and too greasy di tlaga in a way masarap at healthy.

I agree. I think before we aim for good food, we should try to make it safe first.

but FOREIGN travelers are cash rich so most of the time they DEMAND what's best and don't care about money.. the question is.. do we even have first class food and accommodations for those who can afford it??

Uh, cash rich, at times like these? I see lots of articles on newspapers, magazines etc on how people can save money on their trips. I think most travelers do try to get the most out of their money.

TO PLEASE PEOPLE and KEEP THEM HAPPY is the ultimate goal of tourism... and obviously with these kind of attitude these people are showing, sila pa ang nagagalit.. palpak kagad tayo. what happened to the CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT concept?

Yes, customer is "always right", but sometimes the complaints are just not valid, in this case, a difference in the ingredients used. What if someone else ended up liking the spaghetti w/ the egg dish? Just because it's weird food doesn't mean it's not good (ex. dinuguan).

MY POINT SINCE THE START IS.. IF WE WANT THE TOURISM INDUSTRY TO GET BETTER, WE NEED A BIG IMPROVEMENT WITH OUR FOOD OFFERINGS!

Yes, but I'll suggest that we start instead with offering more options for vegetarians.

Sir nakakain ka na ba sa isang restaurant sa abroad - let's say maski sa ASEAN lang? :lol::lol::lol::lol:

I've encountered some of the filthiest hotels and restaurants abroad.

And? I'm sure you would never eat or stay in the same place again, right?

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 01:31 AM

STUPIDO KA BA?
I was just expressing my opinion that we could offer more than what we are offering right now.

Dude, you even agree with me before that "Filipino cuisine really gets a bad rap from people." remember?? go back to page 3
talk about inconsistency..

Expressing an opinion in a refined manner is different from calling people names. Sorry, passive-aggressive behavior. When I said, getting a bad rap, I meant PR-wise.

You haven't answered my questions. Obviously, you haven't traveled abroad nor traveled the Philippines.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 01:34 AM

yung Japanese Chef may license dapat haha

http://www.flickr.com/photos/osakajon/117507536/

Uhm, lahat ba ng cook sa Japan - chef?

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 01:37 AM

Can't help joining the fray (yikes!!)..

Let's see...

France - maybe, if you can decipher the menu, especially if you venture out of Paris. Had some hits and misses here - I went to a Chinese restaurant somewhere in Paris and had the worst dim sum ever (food seemed barely cooked, didn't even arrive hot). But I think their desserts are sublime.

Italy - the dining experience mainly consisted of American fast foods + pasta + pizza. Pasta was very basic - noodles, sauce, grated cheese.

Mexico - just went here last month but can't remember much of the food. How odd. I think it was okay?

Japan - exceptional food, for the most part, though it can be pricey (ex. $100 beef dinner in Kobe). I think they do the pasta dishes better than the Italians themselves (Blasphemy!!).

I agree. I think before we aim for good food, we should try to make it safe first.

Uh, cash rich, at times like these? I see lots of articles on newspapers, magazines etc on how people can save money on their trips. I think most travelers do try to get the most out of their money.

Yes, customer is "always right", but sometimes the complaints are just not valid, in this case, a difference in the ingredients used. What if someone else ended up liking the spaghetti w/ the egg dish? Just because it's weird food doesn't mean it's not good (ex. dinuguan).

Yes, but I'll suggest that we start instead with offering more options for vegetarians.

And? I'm sure you would never eat or stay in the same place again, right?

Yes, I would never stay/eat at the same place but the issue here wasn't sanitation - my point was as you have pointed out on your own reply- the complaint of the foreigner and the ensuing rant by wino was because of the ingredients used which as you said, and I agree - is not valid.

I agree with having more vegetarian restaurants in the country. But that's the thing, ASEAN, East Asia and Central Asian cuisines are dominated by meat.

Aerin

February 17th, 2010, 02:45 AM

Yes, I would never stay/eat at the same place but the issue here wasn't sanitation - my point was as you have pointed out on your own reply- the complaint of the foreigner and the ensuing rant by wino was because of the ingredients used which as you said, and I agree - is not valid.

My response was directed to your response to bosnyboy's post, which was about sanitation, and which I thought you were making light of. It may not be the issue here, but I think it ought to be, or at least it should be a more pressing concern than ingredient differences.

I agree with having more vegetarian restaurants in the country. But that's the thing, ASEAN, East Asia and Central Asian cuisines are dominated by meat.

Oh, I'm very much aware of this. I had a non-Filipino friend, vegetarian, who wanted to visit the Philippines. I warned her that she would go hungry, and I think she did :( .

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 02:56 AM

My response was directed to your response to bosnyboy's post, which was about sanitation, and which I thought you were making light of. It may not be the issue here, but I think it ought to be, or at least it should be a more pressing concern than ingredient differences.

Oh, I'm very much aware of this. I had a non-Filipino friend, vegetarian, who wanted to visit the Philippines. I warned her that she would go hungry, and I think she did :( .

It wasn't that I made light of the sanitation issue. I dunno why you thought that. I think that should be the main issue but it never was as in the discussion about the stupid egg in the spaghetti. If the issue was whether that foreigner had a filthy meal then I'm all for it, but to debate on the ingredients and dictate on restaurants what they should or should not put in their dishes as wino did- that is incredibly naive.

I had another friend who's also a vegetarian and had the same experience. Even in Manila, it's hard to come by a vegetarian restaurant - we had to take her to Indian restaurants so she could eat. In Puerto Princesa, I noticed there was at least three vegetarian restaurants there when we visited the city last December 2009. Good thing I am not vegetarian, otherwise it would suck when I travel. It is common knowledge that Asia in particular has a very meat-centered cuisine. My friend who got here, also got hungry in Korea I think..

Aerin

February 17th, 2010, 04:04 AM

It wasn't that I made light of the sanitation issue. I dunno why you thought that. I think that should be the main issue but it never was as in the discussion about the stupid egg in the spaghetti. If the issue was whether that foreigner had a filthy meal then I'm all for it, but to debate on the ingredients and dictate on restaurants what they should or should not put in their dishes as wino did- that is incredibly naive.

Why did you ask Bosnyboy then if he (?) had ever eaten abroad? Unnecessary, and so was the use of the lol smilies.

Ok, would it help if we have menus clearly detailing the dishes, with pictures (in full color!), so no one gets shocked at what they ordered.

I had another friend who's also a vegetarian and had the same experience. Even in Manila, it's hard to come by a vegetarian restaurant - we had to take her to Indian restaurants so she could eat. In Puerto Princesa, I noticed there was at least three vegetarian restaurants there when we visited the city last December 2009. Good thing I am not vegetarian, otherwise it would suck when I travel. It is common knowledge that Asia in particular has a very meat-centered cuisine. My friend who got here, also got hungry in Korea I think..

Where in Manila did you find the Indian restaurants?

Missed this one.

Expressing an opinion in a refined manner is different from calling people names. Sorry, passive-aggressive behavior. When I said, getting a bad rap, I meant PR-wise.

Well, to be precise and in wino's defense, he (?) did not say anything about expressing his opinion in a refined manner.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 04:23 AM

Why did you ask Bosnyboy then if he (?) had ever eaten abroad? Unnecessary, and so was the use of the lol smilies.

Ok, would it help if we have menus clearly detailing the dishes, with pictures (in full color!), so no one gets shocked at what they ordered.

Where in Manila did you find the Indian restaurants?

Missed this one.

Well, to be precise and in wino's defense, he (?) did not say anything about expressing his opinion in a refined manner.

If i may give my humble opnion on the food matter. I tink our food or the way we prepare our food really lacks proper sanitation. And dumi dumi tignan. I mean the kitchen doesnt have to be spotless or everything made of stainless steel but at least keep it clean. Minsan may mga bangaw or ipis sa kitchen plus the smell, it really stunk. Smell of putrid oil or vinegars or rotten fish are really major turn offs. Saka our food is too salty and too greasy di tlaga in a way masarap at healthy.

1. Why did you ask Bosnyboy then if he (?) had ever eaten abroad? Unnecessary, and so was the use of the lol smilies.

Ok, would it help if we have menus clearly detailing the dishes, with pictures (in full color!), so no one gets shocked at what they ordered.

- He was saying that the way we prepare our food lacks proper sanitation. Sweeping generalization. I therefore pointed out if he has eaten abroad, because if he did, then he should know that a lot of places abroad are equally filthy or filthier. The smileys are for sarcasm. Unnecessary? I don't think so.

- The use of pictures and description of the menus is a good idea, however - so that people wont be shocked to find an egg in their presumed Bolognese. A lot of places are starting to do this, though it needs much work. It's not a common practice in most restaurants even abroad.

Where in Manila did you find the Indian restaurants?

- Swagat is a personal favorite in Makati (ran by an Indian family), Aum Bombay Canteen, Prince of Jaipur are some of the known Indian restos in Makati. Even Boracay has an Indian restaurant. You see, if you get to know the place, you will know where to go.

Well, to be precise and in wino's defense, he (?) did not say anything about expressing his opinion in a refined manner.[/QUOTE]

Uhh, so calling people stupid and a small-thinker because you don't agree with someone's opinion is acceptable then? I doubt you'd like that if wino called you that.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 04:28 AM

Oh yeah there is also Kashmir (Makati and Manila), Queen Tandoor (Makati), and Raj Modern Indian Cuisine (Manila). I am not sure if Ziggurat serves vegetarian dishes but they have Mediterranean, African, Mid-East and Indian dishes too.

jpdm

February 17th, 2010, 04:56 AM

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 05:00 AM

wow....classy restaurants...

....on the otherhand, I only know Jollibee...:lol::lol:

Try Swagat- the food is really good (even diplomats eat there) and cheaper than most Indian restos that I know. Simple lang ang resto and mabait ang may-ari. It's at Legazpi Village.If you are a dessert person, you will really love their Kulfi- their homemade version of pistachio ice cream :)

palawan_buddy

February 17th, 2010, 05:04 AM

If i like my friends to have a real italian spaghetti then i will bring them to an italian restaurant and not to a carinderia hahahahahahaha, really too stupid and shallow.

i AGREE to this one. it nails the argument. there are restaurants, and there are carinderias. i am sure discerning tourists would know the difference what they are into.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 05:17 AM

i AGREE to this one. it nails the argument. there are restaurants, and there are carinderias. i am sure discerning tourists would know the difference what they are into.

What were the names of those vegetarian restos in PP? Was there last Christmas, had great Chao Long there. hehe. Crispy pata and tamilok in Kinabuchs and a seafood platter at Ka Lui. Our favorite places to eat in PP. :D

Bricken Ridge

February 17th, 2010, 05:46 AM

and to think na sometimes ang mga turistang napunta sa Pilipinas.. ang mga natitikmang pagkain ay mga Karindirya menu.. that's why laging comment ng mga tourists ay uhmmm... food is not so great..

one time nasa puerto gallera ako.. umorder ung European ng spaghetti..
weird thing is.. the spaghetti was topped with hard boiled eggs..
naweirduhan ung lalake.. hinde na tuloy kinain..
now, that is a really bad image and experience for a guy who travelled thousands of kilometers away from home to travel and taste something different.. and get disappointed with spaghetti with hard boiled eggs.. eh kahit ako hinde ko kakainin yun e!! Where is the quality here??
WHAT IS THE IMPRESSION PEOPLE ARE WE GIVING TO THESE TOURISTS?? GOOD THING OUR COUNTRY IS REALLY BEAUTIFUL
and to think that these people are willing to spend big money just to experience different quality food.
again, Filipino food is far away from being luxurious..

I think it's time for the DOT to give attention to the Filipino cuisine.. TRAIN COOKS who will specialize in the tourism industry.

It is the small things that we take for granted that really gives the biggest impression on the tourists.

the Philippines is a beautiful country, with very friendly people but with bad accommodation, and unsatisfying food.
that is the usual comments of travelers.

Nothing wrong with serving spaghetti with hard boiled eggs. Based on your story, the shock factor was this poor tourist was probably expecting an Italian-style spaghetti. This could have been avoided had the resto wrote a brief description of the dish on the menu or at least post a photo of the dish on the menu.

Now, if that tourist was smart, he could have asked the waiter how the dish was prepared. I normally ask the waiter how the dish is cooked during my travels abroad so I don't get too excited once the food is served. Even then, there are still occasional surprises and having an open mind does help understand the culture better.:)

Wind Shear

February 17th, 2010, 06:01 AM

Nothing wrong with serving spaghetti with hard boiled eggs. Based on your story, the shock factor was this poor tourist was probably expecting an Italian-style spaghetti. This could have been avoided had the resto wrote a brief description of the dish on the menu or at least post a photo of the dish on the menu.

Now, if that tourist was smart, he could have asked the waiter how the dish was prepared. I normally ask the waiter how the dish is cooked during my travels abroad so I don't get too excited once the food is served. Even then, there are still occasional surprises and having an open mind does help understand the culture better.:)

Then the fault is at the pathetic tourist. If I don't understand the meal in the menu (eg. only the title of the meal, no pictures, no descriptions), I always call in the waiter and ask the description of the meal.

Bricken Ridge

February 17th, 2010, 06:18 AM

Hahaha Im not calling culinary stupid and shallow, what im calling stupid and shallow is to say that Pinoy food is not good or inferior because of the spaghetti with hard boiled egg.

Seriously, other foods like Italian, Japanese, Thai etc are no better than Pinoy food, its all about marketing. And as you have said its really is a big competition out there and the best way to compete is for us to be proud of what we have and what we serve....if we can be proud of that spaghetti with hard boiled egg and take it as our own and dont feel like we are serving something inferior then we are one step ahead in our competitiveness.

One reason we cant compete with other nations is that we always feel that we are not at par with other countries, why cant we be good ambassadors of our tourism industry, why should we always focus on our shortcomings ?

And that bad comment on spaghetti with hard boiled eggs tells a lot about us, about our biases against our own. How can you say its awefull without tasting it? You immidiately concluded that its awefull because its unusual, because it doesnt conform to the usual idea of your Italian spaghetti. And if our own people dont take pride on what we have and what we can serve how can you expect other nationalities to like our food? How can we compete?

Italian, japanese, thai etc food are not entirely better than ours, they just know how to sell it; they are proud with their food and it convinced us much more easier.

Well said. We filipinos should be ambassadors of our own diverse dishes. We have a great collection of regional food from Ilocano to Pampanga to Bicol to Cebu down to Zamboanga. I think our food would sell well if we market it well. I personally cook food for my non- filipino friends who visit me here in the US. They particularly love the Pancit, Adobo, Kare-kare, menudo, nilagang manok and some ginataan dishes. It all boils down to presentation and taste. It has to be served attractively ala haute cuisine to make that first impression. And taste follows. Now, I'm hungry.:)

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 06:20 AM

Maiba naman tayo ng konti:

Baler named fastest rising Philippine travel destination
Posted on February 16th, 2010 under Beauty of the Philippines

Baler, the capital and oldest town of Aurora province is the fastest rising local travel destination in Google’s most-searched items in the Philippines in 2009.

Local officials said Baler emerged on top of the list of local travel destinations that include the Amana Resort (Pandi, Bulacan), Acuatico Beach Resort (San Juan, Batangas), Coron Palawan, Anawangin Cove (San Antonio Zambales) El Nido (Palawan) and 8 Waves Resort and Eco Park (San Rafael, Bulacan)

Baler’s new-found status as a potential tourism mecca was apparently spurred by the movie shown in late 2008 starring Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales which showcased this town as a surfer’s paradise.

The period film swept major awards during the Metro Manila Film Festival in 2008.

Provincial government officials, through the provincial tourism office, have been aggressive in promoting not only Baler but the entire province as a tourism destination by participating in various tourism-related activities, including the North Philippines Tourism Fair where it was declared best tourism booth for the past three years.
The inclusion of Baler in the Philippine Zeitgest of Google was no mean feat considering it had to compete with Filipino online viewers’ attention fixated with the likes of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, presidential candidate Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, controversial doctor Hayden Kho and social networking site Facebook.
Google’s 2009 Year-End Zeitgest report said it contained what was on the minds of most information-hungry Pinoy Internet users in the past 12 months.

Therese Lim of Google Southeast Asia said 2009 was peppered with events that got Filipinos searching for more information online from politics to sports.

“Google was there to provide them with unlimited access,” Lim said.

kevinb

February 17th, 2010, 07:52 AM

wow....classy restaurants...

....on the otherhand, I only know Jollibee...:lol::lol:

I actually like spaghetti from Jollibee.:)

But my favorite is from Sbarro.:D

jaygold06

February 17th, 2010, 08:03 AM

^^yeah.. me too i love Jollibee spaghetti.. hehehe...

Aerin

February 17th, 2010, 09:08 AM

1. Why did you ask Bosnyboy then if he (?) had ever eaten abroad? Unnecessary, and so was the use of the lol smilies.

Ok, would it help if we have menus clearly detailing the dishes, with pictures (in full color!), so no one gets shocked at what they ordered.

- He was saying that the way we prepare our food lacks proper sanitation. Sweeping generalization. I therefore pointed out if he has eaten abroad, because if he did, then he should know that a lot of places abroad are equally filthy or filthier. The smileys are for sarcasm. Unnecessary? I don't think so.

I've known several people who have gotten sick eating Filipino food. My own mother ended up in the hospital because of food poisoning.

Yes, I know that other places have it bad too - I know because I've gotten sick there after eating the food or drinking the water. But pointing that out doesn't alter the fact that we need to improve the way we handle/prepare our food. Filthy is filthy. We can't do much about it in other countries, but we can in the Philippines.

- Swagat is a personal favorite in Makati (ran by an Indian family), Aum Bombay Canteen, Prince of Jaipur are some of the known Indian restos in Makati. Even Boracay has an Indian restaurant. You see, if you get to know the place, you will know where to go.

Where exactly in Makati? (Sorry, I could probably do the research but it's easier to just ask)

Uhh, so calling people stupid and a small-thinker because you don't agree with someone's opinion is acceptable then? I doubt you'd like that if wino called you that.

Nope, I didn't say anything about it being acceptable (and for the record wino's 'stupido' was offensive). BUT - there is a distinction between what you said and what he said. He was content to simply express his opinion, you added the words "in a refined manner". Clearly you were expecting too much.

bledzoe

February 17th, 2010, 09:19 AM

^^enough of the foodie discussion, guys... :cheers: let's go back to highlighting our tourism progress...

bledzoe

February 17th, 2010, 09:23 AM

DOT promotes Boracay rock as tourism landmark (http://positivenewsmedia.ca/am2/publish/Tourism_24/DOT_promotes_Boracay_rock_as_tourism_landmark.shtml)

http://nyc.images.agoda.com/hotels/161564/OTHERS/OTHERS_161564_9.jpg
Boracay Rock with the Blessed Virgin Mary in it.

BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan, Feb. 13 (PNA) - The Department of Tourism (DOT) has pledged to include the new grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mary in what now to be considered as the Boracay rock as one of the tourism landmarks in this resort island.

Boracay Parish priest Fr. Maglore Placer said that tourism officials had called him and vowed to include the Boracay rock in its tourism promotions around the world.

Around 3,500 Catholic devotees witnessed the ceremonial re-enthronement of the two-foot statue Thursday afternoon.

The ceremony took place after the owner of the original statue removed the image and pledged to replace it with a Ten Commandments Tablet last week.

But the Catholic Church was furious with the owner's decision.

For 20 years, the grotto has become one of the most favorite places to shoot by passing tourists.

With the support of the local council declaring the rock as owned by the government, the grotto has been reconstructed and a new Virgin Mary image has been installed.

Fr. Placer said that tourists coming to this resort island would be going back to the Boracay Rock and once again shoot photo of the new image.

bledzoe

February 17th, 2010, 09:34 AM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4347676498_3fc7ace342_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4347666200_41ef5484a4_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4346927235_35a4bf252d.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4346930095_2598a4d6b2.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2786/4347682334_fae2be8d28.jpg

From Enrico Dee's Byahilo blog... (http://www.byahilo.com/2010/02/11/the-clark-hot-air-balloon-fiesta-2010-up-up-and-away/)

bledzoe

February 17th, 2010, 09:41 AM

GHF group to restore historic Intramuros ala Williamsburg
(http://positivenewsmedia.ca/am2/publish/Tourism_24/GHF_group_to_restore_historic_Intramuros_ala_Williamsburg.shtml)

By Lily O Ramos

http://www.hotelsphilippines.org/images/stories/intramuros.gif

MANILA, Feb. 13 (PNA) -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) received a pledge of support for the preservation of historic Intramuros from the Global Heritage Fund (GHF) Mission.

The Global Heritage Fund Mission is a distinguished non-profit conservation group that provides assistance to developing countries in preserving their cultural heritage sites.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano and GHF International Conservation Director John Hurd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday at the Ilustrados Restaurant in Intramuros to formally commence the working partnership.

“As one of the country’s significant cultural heritage icons, Intramuros needs a long-term and systematic preservation program to protect its centuries-old structures and collections.

"The assistance of the respected Global Heritage Fund enables both the DOT and Intramuros Administration to look into adopting an internationally recognized conservation methodology in preserving the walled city,” said Durano.

Hurd said the GHF will send its technical team in the following months for a feasibility study of the Walled City.

Hurd was conservation consultant to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and is currently the president of International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Advisory Committee, an advisory body the the UNESCO World Heritage.

“Intramuros has an enormous international potential with its historical wealth. We hope to keep the historical authenticity within its walls with the help of your country’s academe, professionals, tourism stakeholders and the community in the area,” said Hurd.

Durano added that the group’s efforts are in line with the country’s tourism vision.

“In developing a destination, we seek first what is intrinsic and beneficial to its surrounding community. What the communities can appreciate, the tourists will surely be able to enjoy,” he said.

Working with international specialists in archaeological conservation and community development, the GHF is internationally renowned for its intensive conservation methodology called Preservation by Design.

This approach includes site management, planning, scientific conservation and community development of areas deemed as endangered heritage sites.

Dennis Normandy, chairman of the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee (SFMSCC), the group that served as Manila’s liaison to the GHF, said that they are looking into replicating the success of the Colonial Williamsburg Town in the state of Virginia for Intramuros.

“We hope to see Intramuros one day as a living history, much like the town of Colonial Williamsburg where history was recreated not only by its structures but by real people who are living out the 18th century period,” said Normandy.

Colonial Williamsburg is a popular tourist site in Virginia where trade, commerce and community living are recreated daily amid restored original structures such as buildings, houses, and shops spread out in 301 acres of land.

The GHF has been involved in projects in many countries like China, India, Peru, Laos and Libya. One of its acclaimed projects is the restoration of the Ancient Town of Lijiang in China.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang suffered from overdevelopment prompting GHF to initiate a Master Conservation and Site Management Plan and an innovative Preservation Incentive Fund.

Together with the Lijiang Ancient Town Management Committee, UNESCO World Heritage Centre Asia Pacific and Shanghai Tong Ji University’s Urban Planning and Design Institute, the GHF managed to restore Lijiang’s 200 ancient structures and create a sustainable tourism livelihood for the Naxi tribal community living in the area.

The success of the restoration of Lijiang Ancient Town was commended by the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Award of Merit.

The expertise of the GHF is undoubtedly needed in Intramuros, according to Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Tourism Planning and Promotion.

“Heritage site preservation has been a challenge for countries like ours which have modest resources. With environmental effects, climate changes, and other causes beyond our control, our heritage sites do need all the support specially from experts like the GHF,” said Jarque.

Also present during the MOU signing were Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown, Baby Villegas representing Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim; Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria Harper and Consul-General to San Francisco Marciano Paynor.

The formal signing was also held in conjunction with the Business and Cultural Mission of the SFMSCC, which served as the liaison of the GHF to the country.

An organization created in April 1961 under the Office of the Mayor of San Francisco, the SFMSCC’s membership includes public officials, business leaders, professionals, educators, authors, artists and other individuals or proven achievement who have interest in or ties to the Philippines.

Its basic mandate is to serve as the preeminent cultural and economic link between San Francisco and Manila. It has organized business and cultural missions to the Philippines in the past years.

kevinb

February 17th, 2010, 09:56 AM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2786/4347682334_fae2be8d28.jpg

From Enrico Dee's Byahilo blog... (http://www.byahilo.com/2010/02/11/the-clark-hot-air-balloon-fiesta-2010-up-up-and-away/)

Ganda.:D

bledzoe

February 17th, 2010, 10:52 AM

Palawan in China’s top spots for elite travellers (http://goodnewspilipinas.com/?p=10316)
Posted on February 7th, 2010 under Beauty of the Philippines

http://goodnewspilipinas.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/palawan3.jpg

Palawan, the country’s renowned ecotourism site, is once again hailed as among the top 10 best destinations for elite travelers in China. Initiated by Ctrip.com, China’s leading and trusted online travel agency, and popular high-end travel glossy Elite Traveller, the polling for top overseas destinations of 2009 gathered a total of 4,340,122 valid votes through www.ctrip.com, emails, fax, and snail mail.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano noted, “Receiving this recognition for one of our carefully protected eco-tourism sites is indeed a great milestone ushering for more positive news in tourism at the onset of the year.”

Reaffirming the distinction of being a most sought-after destination for the Chinese market, the country continues to pride itself with natural wonders and eco-tourism sites. The Palawan Underground River has also been continually in the top list of the New7Wonders of Nature online poll, and is now officially the country’s bet for the final stage which will be held in 2011.

“More than promoting our destinations to travelers, we aim to raise awareness on the preservation and protection of our natural wonders through responsible travel,” said Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr.

The list of 10 Top destinations include the Pyramids of Egypt; the Gold Coast of Australia; Masai Mara in Kenya; Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand, the cosmopolitan city of Paris, France; Jungfrau in Switzerland; beach destination Maldives; Disney World in Orlando World, USA, and Bali Island in Indonesia.

Representatives and travel agencies from more than 30 countries and regions were present at the grand awarding ceremonies held in the Radisson Plaza Xing Guo Hotel in Shanghai, China.

Accepting the award was Gerry Panga, Tourism Attaché for DOT Shanghai. “We are pressed to maintain the Philippines’ position as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, through our intensified our marketing programs to promote our country’s treasures to the nature-loving Chinese travelers.”

China remains the country’s third largest source market for tourists.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 12:32 PM

I've known several people who have gotten sick eating Filipino food. My own mother ended up in the hospital because of food poisoning.

Yes, I know that other places have it bad too - I know because I've gotten sick there after eating the food or drinking the water. But pointing that out doesn't alter the fact that we need to improve the way we handle/prepare our food. Filthy is filthy. We can't do much about it in other countries, but we can in the Philippines.

Where exactly in Makati? (Sorry, I could probably do the research but it's easier to just ask)

Nope, I didn't say anything about it being acceptable (and for the record wino's 'stupido' was offensive). BUT - there is a distinction between what you said and what he said. He was content to simply express his opinion, you added the words "in a refined manner". Clearly you were expecting too much.

I've known several people who have gotten sick eating Filipino food. My own mother ended up in the hospital because of food poisoning.

Yes, I know that other places have it bad too - I know because I've gotten sick there after eating the food or drinking the water. But pointing that out doesn't alter the fact that we need to improve the way we handle/prepare our food. Filthy is filthy. We can't do much about it in other countries, but we can in the Philippines.

- Yeah, I know there are some places that needed to be improved. But what I am pointing out earlier is I don't like the other guy's statement was sweeping generalization. That's not cool, it's not like we got widespread, nationwide poisoning happening at the same time. I've eaten in carinderias and roadside eateries to the most expensive restaurants in the Philippines and I was okay and I am sure there's a lot of people who have the same experience. There is already a food safety standard existing for all the restaurant establishments, it is just a matter of reporting such incidents to the authorities for any violations.

Where exactly in Makati? (Sorry, I could probably do the research but it's easier to just ask)

- You may check my article here with Swagat mentioned - http://tourism-philippines.com/best-places-to-eat-in-manila/ It's also got some of my reviews and recommendations.

He was content to simply express his opinion, you added the words "in a refined manner". Clearly you were expecting too much.

- As much as possible, I expect courtesy to people I talk to as they would expect courtesy from me. Unfortunately, not a lot of people were brought up that way. And I agree with you, in his case, I was expecting too much. :cheers:

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 12:38 PM

Anyway, some of my photos of the Pyromusical at MOA over the weekend-

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs178.snc3/20562_337030376281_530586281_5246699_7548214_n.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs198.snc3/20562_337030421281_530586281_5246704_1202852_n.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs178.snc3/20562_337030541281_530586281_5246714_4641667_n.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs178.snc3/20562_337030561281_530586281_5246716_7650993_n.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs198.snc3/20562_337030646281_530586281_5246725_6731711_n.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs198.snc3/20562_337030891281_530586281_5246752_3191760_n.jpg

Dr. Richard Espeno

February 17th, 2010, 02:26 PM

wino

February 17th, 2010, 03:10 PM

Expressing an opinion in a refined manner is different from calling people names. Sorry, passive-aggressive behavior. When I said, getting a bad rap, I meant PR-wise.

You haven't answered my questions. Obviously, you haven't traveled abroad nor traveled the Philippines.

i live abroad and i have traveled around North America and the Entire Luzon from Ilocos to Bicol.
NOT THAT IT REALLY MATTERS.. i only answered coz you are compelling me..
and oh btw even the most least travel person in the world has his own rights to voice out his opinion here.

wino

February 17th, 2010, 03:18 PM

ahhaahhahaa:nuts: papaano po ito kasing si wino sa dami naman kasi na pwedeng icorrect na hindi maganda about pinoy fud/presentation/cleanliness eh iyung spaghetti na may hard boiled egg ang pinuna hahahahaah:banana:

actually i don't think it was the egg that disgusted the guy.. it was the taste.. seeing his reaction after tasting it.. siguro maalat or sobrang tamis.. or mapait.. i would never know..

eh sorry panget nga example ko siguro kaya namimiss nila ung point ko..
o well... just forget about the spaghetti thing. i really hate conflicts..
tama na sila.. mali ako..

from the famous line of GMA..
"I AM SORRY"

pulsephaze22

February 17th, 2010, 03:21 PM

wino

February 17th, 2010, 03:26 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 03:28 PM

i live abroad and i have traveled around North America and the Entire Luzon from Ilocos to Bicol.
NOT THAT IT REALLY MATTERS.. i only answered coz you are compelling me..
and oh btw even the most least travel person in the world has his own rights to voice out his opinion here.

Really, but does that compel you to call people names? Like I said, know the country first. Ilocos-Bicol is not the entire Philippines mind you. I had traveled from Batanes to Mindanao and other Asian countries NOT THAT IT REALLY MATTERS. Hindi maganda yang nagtatawag ka ng taong hindi mo kakilala na 'Stupido' at 'Small-thinker'. Discuss like a civilised person. No need to call people names just because they don't agree with you.

-------------------------------------------------------

Expedia unveils top 5 emerging food destinations for the Indian traveller
Friday, 13 March 2009

Destinations such as France, Italy or Spain have always been regarded as the ultimate food havens and the world’s ‘culinary capitals’. While their cuisines continue to attract tens of millions of travellers each year, Expedia.co.inTM, which is operated by Expedia Inc., the world’s leading online travel company, has revealed the Top 5 Emerging Food Destinations for travellers seeking not only a new and fascinating travel experience but also an exotic culinary sensation.

Though Indian travellers have long been seen as tourists who never experimented with food, this has definitely been changing in recent times. With the outbound travel market growing phenomenally, more Indians are travelling abroad and with much more receptiveness to local cuisines around the world.

“This creates the perfect motivation to seek out new and interesting travel destinations that offer exotic taste sensations through their local cuisines,” said Arthur Hoffman, Managing Director Expedia Asia Pacific.

“Trying a country’s local produce and traditional dishes reveals fascinating aspects of that country’s culture and way of life, not to mention the excitement of seeking out authentic restaurants in hidden side streets, strolling through a produce market touching, smelling or tasting exotic fruit and vegetables or simply stopping for a snack at a food stall on the side of a busy street,” he said.

The Expedia.co.in Top 5 Emerging Food Destinations:

1) Morocco
The enchanting country of Morocco surrounded by four separate mountain ranges, the Mediterranean beaches and, the wide expanse of the desert provides the traveller with myriad experiences. This seems to have affected the Moroccan cuisine in a huge way, where travellers who have tasted Moroccan cuisine would vouch for. Perhaps one of the close similarities between Indian and Moroccan food is the extensive use of spices in dishes, which would appeal greatly to the Indian palate. While most Indians would be familiar with the food varieties e.g.; kebabs, halwa etc., the preparation is what makes the difference. If you are visiting Morocco, sample the variety of dishes available there. Don’t let the Indian-ness seep in to determine what you favour, in fact allow the locals to direct you.

Dish not to miss: Bisteeya. A savoury filo pastry delight, layered with chicken, eggs and a lemon and onion sauce, topped with crushed almonds, cinnamon and sugar. Also, try the green tea with mint which is a very popular brew there, like our very own chai.

2) Jamaica
An island nation, Jamaica is the perfect country to visit if one loves the sun, the sand and the sea. And Jamaican food with its explosive flavours and key ingredients indigenous to the country is something which all travellers should try. Unprocessed foods, smaller portions of meats and an abundance of seafood make Jamaican food a wholesome and succulent cuisine to enjoy. The variety of sweet, hot and savoury dishes is abundant and with some of the most regularly used herbal medicines such as garlic, ginger, all spice and hot peppers forming the basis of Jamaica’s flavoursome dishes, travellers are sure to feel cleansed and rejuvenated after their stay

Dish not to miss: Jamaican Jerk. The main ingredient – pork, chicken or fish – is marinated with a fiery mixture of spices, including Scotch bonnet, a pepper that makes a jalape?o taste like a marshmallow, pimento or allspice, nutmeg and thyme. It’s all served up with even more hot sauce, rice and peas, and the wonderful festival bread. Jerk is one of the ultimate Jamaican dishes, dating back to the island’s earliest days.

3) Poland
The rich culture and incredible natural features of Poland – including some of the most remarkable forests in Europe – make it a breathtaking place to visit for people of all interests. ‘Substantial’ is probably one of the best ways to describe traditional Polish food. Travellers who want to taste and sample Polish food should stop counting calories as meat forms the main base of most dishes. However, with considerable Jewish influence the most typical ingredients used in Polish cuisine are sauerkraut, beetroot, cucumbers (gherkins), sour cream, kohlrabi, mushrooms, sausages and smoked sausage.

Dish not to miss: Kurczak de volaille (Chicken de volaille). Chicken steaks spread with butter, filled with mushrooms and bread crumbed, originally French. Vegetarians can try Pierogi. Traditional small white dumplings, larger than ravioli, filled with sauerkraut with mushrooms, cheese and potatoes or with fruit. They can be also be served with meat (z mi??sem).

4) Croatia
With the country comprising of many small islands Croatia has one of the most beautiful coastlines which has hundreds of idyllic coves, islands and channels, making this a perfect place for a lazy holiday for swimming and sun-bathing. Like the Croatian coastlines, Croatian food is also divided according to coastal flavours and interior flavours. History has peppered Croatian cuisine with many flavours right from the Greeks to the Hungarians. The delicious desserts made from local and exotic fruits are a great way to finish a meal

Dish not to miss: Blitva. Swiss chard boiled and served with olive oil, potatoes and garlic is a simple and delicious side dish that's served throughout Croatia. Also try kulen (spicy sausage) or fis paprikas (spicy freshwater fish stew)

5) Philippines
Made up of more than 7,000 islands, the country offers tourists one of the best marine life and coral reefs to explore. Like the country itself, Filipino food has a unique blend of western and eastern cultures representing the diversity of the country. With nearly 400 years of external influences, the Filipino cuisine is an exciting mix of Spanish, Malay and Chinese cultures. Unlike most Asian countries, Filipinos do not use chillies liberally in their food, which may come as somewhat of a disappointment to the Indians. However, this should not stop Indian tourists from sampling some of their dishes which provide wonderful variety.

Dish not to miss: Lumpia. The Lumpia, or better known as spring roll in English, is filled with vegetables and meat. This dish tastes great when served with soy sauce, vinegar or a slightly sweet sauce. Sinigang. The lightly boiled, slightly sour soup known as sinigang makes a delightful dish when served with rice. This soup is cooked using souring agents like unripe guavas, tamarind leaves and flowers, kamias and tomatoes. There are different varieties of sinigang such as sinigang na isda (sour vegetable soup with fish) and sinigang na baboy (sour vegetable soup with pork).

wino

February 17th, 2010, 03:30 PM

^^ ok.. para matigil na to
i'll just stop making comments

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 03:31 PM

i'll be going back to the Philippines this March and spend my holidays there..

aside from other places... iniisip ko na baka pumunta ako sa Puerto Galera-- para lang matikman ung infamous spaghetti..
o diba success ang spaghetti, he got one person to come back to that place.

pag masama ang lasa talaga, awayin mo ang cook- lecheng spaghetti yan. hindi pa natin nakakain, nahahayblood na tayo.

O sya bati na tayo!

wino

February 17th, 2010, 03:33 PM

i'll try to take a picture if ever tumuloy ako dun! LOL
ayan.. an addition to my THINGS TO DO IN THE PHILIPPINES

-TASTE THE INFAMOUS SPAGHETTI IN PUERTO GALLERA, and take a picture too.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 03:40 PM

O sya sige, para lalong lumamig ulo natin- eto some of my photos of my Batanes trip. Visit these islands if and when you get the chance...

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217510091281_530586281_4649759_5492638_n.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217520571281_530586281_4649904_6914453_n.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217520611281_530586281_4649910_4532540_n.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs052.snc3/13969_217510106281_530586281_4649761_5120441_n.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217535856281_530586281_4649993_6947426_n.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217510311281_530586281_4649790_8231019_n.jpg

Dr. Richard Espeno

February 17th, 2010, 03:54 PM

pag masama ang lasa talaga, awayin mo ang cook- lecheng spaghetti yan. hindi pa natin nakakain, nahahayblood na tayo.

O sya bati na tayo!

HAHAHAHA nakakatawa talaga tong thread, nakakaaddict sarap subaybayan ang mga comments:lol: siguro ang lesson to learn dito eh maging mahinay, dahan dahan at maingat sa pagpuna sa ating mga kamalian/kababawan/sensitivities bilang PINOY at sana tayong mga PINOY mismo ay maging mabuting tagapagtaguyod ng ating turismo at bansa :cheers:

uwi din ako sa Pinas april 4-13, siguro punta ako ng Batanes at as usual me mga kasama ulit akong mga kaibigan na Malaysians at Singaporeans

MABUHAY ANG PILIPINAS

wino

February 17th, 2010, 03:57 PM

^^ sorry, show is over :D LOL
look at the positive side.. we were able to stir things here..

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 04:38 PM

HAHAHAHA nakakatawa talaga tong thread, nakakaaddict sarap subaybayan ang mga comments:lol: siguro ang lesson to learn dito eh maging mahinay, dahan dahan at maingat sa pagpuna sa ating mga kamalian/kababawan/sensitivities bilang PINOY at sana tayong mga PINOY mismo ay maging mabuting tagapagtaguyod ng ating turismo at bansa :cheers:

uwi din ako sa Pinas april 4-13, siguro punta ako ng Batanes at as usual me mga kasama ulit akong mga kaibigan na Malaysians at Singaporeans

MABUHAY ANG PILIPINAS

Doc - my guide on Batanes hopefully could help you - mahaba habang basahan yan. 6000++ words - http://tourism-philippines.com/batanes/

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 04:39 PM

^^ sorry, show is over :D LOL
look at the positive side.. we were able to stir things here..

Korek ka jan... magpopost pa ako ng mga photos ko dito... para mainspire tayo in discovering our country. :) teka kain muna ako ng Andok's. hehehe!

bakasaurus

February 17th, 2010, 05:03 PM

Hahahaha! That was a nice arc. I don't think forum fights can get any more educational than that! Great food fight!

In any case, when it comes to Philippine cuisine, our strength lies in the variety of our food and the price. I do agree that food presentation and sanitation needs to be improved.

I also concur, bilib na bilib ako how they prepare food, and present them here in Japan. I would especially like to highlight kahit yung mga street food or cheaper (relatively) places to eat, they really impress me. Pagdating naman sa food presentation, the best.

bai xxxriainxxx thanks for the Batanes guide link. Have been planning for so long to visit!
Mauuna ko pa ata mapuntahan ang southernmost islands ng Japan (Iriomote and Ishigaki) na malapit na sa Batanes at Taiwan kesa Batanes mismo. Would be going there this March for fieldwork. I would like to check too if distributed din sa Batanes yung mga sea creatures na aking pinag-aaralan. Hehehe.

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 05:27 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 05:36 PM

More of my Batanes photos, sorry, hindi pa ako nito nakabili ng DSLR::

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217536136281_530586281_4650036_1320874_n.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217548221281_530586281_4650096_321989_n.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs052.snc3/13969_217548201281_530586281_4650093_4446974_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs052.snc3/13969_217548181281_530586281_4650090_3780581_n.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs052.snc3/13969_217535971281_530586281_4650011_7850075_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs052.snc3/13969_217536191281_530586281_4650044_8174444_n.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217548226281_530586281_4650097_3375466_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs052.snc3/13969_217548191281_530586281_4650092_5158415_n.jpg

wino

February 17th, 2010, 05:49 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 17th, 2010, 05:54 PM

i like the last picture! and the lighthouse too

Batanes architecture has the potential to become world famous.. truly unique. i hope Batanes tourism will give emphasis on it.. and consider it as it's niche.

Onga...yung Chavayan, isang village sa Sabtang, nominated yun as a World Heritage Village ng UNESCO, tinutulugan lang yata ang nomination ng mga tao na responsible dito sa Manila...

Pag magkabahay ako, gusto ko Ivatan-style architecture......

Igsuonnimo

February 17th, 2010, 06:03 PM

HAHAHAHA nakakatawa talaga tong thread, nakakaaddict sarap subaybayan ang mga comments:lol: siguro ang lesson to learn dito eh maging mahinay, dahan dahan at maingat sa pagpuna sa ating mga kamalian/kababawan/sensitivities bilang PINOY at sana tayong mga PINOY mismo ay maging mabuting tagapagtaguyod ng ating turismo at bansa :cheers:

uwi din ako sa Pinas april 4-13, siguro punta ako ng Batanes at as usual me mga kasama ulit akong mga kaibigan na Malaysians at Singaporeans

MABUHAY ANG PILIPINAS

Alright lah!
Bakit ang mga Pinoy insecure sa mga Malaysians?

:cheers1:

Sana mag-extend ka nang masaksihan mo pa ang mga sagala sa buong buwan ng Mayo , another cheers to you!

Ph Man

February 17th, 2010, 06:05 PM

man...i've been wanting to see Batanes myself. I live in the same region (2) as Batanes, but never set foot in this beautiful island. ito yung lugar na gusto kong puntahan pag gusto ko magsenti...be close to nature, feel insignificant.

aside from the areas of improvement you already mentioned on previous posts...what the government has to work on is eradicating corruption at our very corridors - the airport immigration checks. the Australian of my boss' sister (ang gulo ba) was a victim. the poor guy was asked to pay PHP3K.

anyway...don't do personal attacks again guys as it warrants brigging or worse, for this thread to end up in 'black hole.' i hope we're done with the spaghetti stuff.

wino

February 17th, 2010, 06:10 PM

Alright lah!
Bakit ang mga Pinoy insecure sa mga Malaysians?

the last time i checked hinde nman ako na insecure.. LOL
though i've never met a Malaysian in my entire life.. :D

fengrun

February 17th, 2010, 09:48 PM

wino

February 17th, 2010, 10:32 PM

^^ Boracay i guess...
i'll be going there this summer :D
actually a friend of mine also suggested for me to go to Batanes.. her boyfriend is from there. But i chose Boracay, all is set already. :D

xxxriainxxx

February 18th, 2010, 01:56 AM

i want to go to batanes, pero ang mahal ng pamasahe. e boracay nga di pa ako nakapunta, so where should I go first boracay or batanes?

gusto ko din sana bumili ng farm dyan. san ba pupunta pag bibili ng farm sa batanes? I want to live there, someday.

Batanes is different from Boracay, the topography is totally different... If you got the money - head to Batanes... Regarding about buying property in Batanes, it is difficult to do that as I think only Batanes natives (or married to one) are allowed to buy property. The society in that province is very community-centered as well. The entire province is also a protected seascape/landscape.

xxxriainxxx

February 18th, 2010, 01:59 AM

Alright lah!
Bakit ang mga Pinoy insecure sa mga Malaysians?

:cheers1:

Sana mag-extend ka nang masaksihan mo pa ang mga sagala sa buong buwan ng Mayo , another cheers to you!

Hindi naman insecure po, wala naman sinabi si Doc na ganyan - coworkers nya yata yan eh. But yeah, the sagala would be nice - or even better, you can also drop by at the Crucifixion in San Pedro Cutud, San Fernando, Pampanga or attend the Pahiyas in Lucban.. Went to both last year and it was quite a different experience.. :)

xxxriainxxx

February 18th, 2010, 02:02 AM

^^ Boracay i guess...
i'll be going there this summer :D
actually a friend of mine also suggested for me to go to Batanes.. her boyfriend is from there. But i chose Boracay, all is set already. :D

I might pop in Boracay this summer as well, just before I leave the country siguro.. I am originally from Kalibo so Boracay is like 1 hour from my house. Next time, really don't miss Batanes....

xxxriainxxx

February 18th, 2010, 03:00 AM

Now here are some of my photos of my Puerto Princesa city trip:

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs175.snc3/20244_220551754063_86996579063_3258488_6849101_n.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs175.snc3/20244_220551819063_86996579063_3258496_3723960_n.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs175.snc3/20244_220551689063_86996579063_3258482_5859571_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs175.snc3/20244_220551679063_86996579063_3258481_406038_n.jpg

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs195.snc3/20244_220551604063_86996579063_3258472_2575820_n.jpg

Underground River

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs195.snc3/20244_220551879063_86996579063_3258502_7088186_n.jpg

wino

February 18th, 2010, 06:04 AM

I might pop in Boracay this summer as well, just before I leave the country siguro.. I am originally from Kalibo so Boracay is like 1 hour from my house. Next time, really don't miss Batanes....

sorry but Batanes is not yet on my list.. medyo mahaba pa e.. hehe
tapos na ako mag ikot sa Luzon e..
pag nalibot ko na halos buong Visayas.. i might consider the north again..
at this time i'm only considering the Visayas region in my priority travel list in the next few years...

question:
Is it true you can hear roosters crowing from Taiwan when you are in Batanes?
a guy told us that when we were in Pagudpud years ago.. feeling ko kasi nambobola lang hehe

xxxriainxxx

February 18th, 2010, 06:21 AM

sorry but Batanes is not yet on my list.. medyo mahaba pa e.. hehe
tapos na ako mag ikot sa Luzon e..
pag nalibot ko na halos buong Visayas.. i might consider the north again..
at this time i'm only considering the Visayas region in my priority travel list in the next few years...

question:
Is it true you can hear roosters crowing from Taiwan when you are in Batanes?
a guy told us that when we were in Pagudpud years ago.. feeling ko kasi nambobola lang hehe

Hehe. seryoso yang tanong na yan ha? hehe. that is so not true. LOL. Parang sinabi na lang ng lalaki na yan na maririnig mo sa Negros ang utot na nangaling sa Cebu. hehehe. niloloko ka lang nun. :D :D

Speaking of Pagudpud - some of my Pagudpud photos-

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4823_112321991281_530586281_3296364_4273469_n.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4823_112321936281_530586281_3296357_2567914_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4823_112322006281_530586281_3296367_1305711_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4823_112322041281_530586281_3296373_5239451_n.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs112.snc1/4823_112322026281_530586281_3296370_8310795_n.jpg

bledzoe

February 18th, 2010, 12:08 PM

xxxriainxxx

February 18th, 2010, 12:24 PM

i love to visit this place. ang tanong ko ay kung saan pwede mag-stay kung overnight? :D

Hey there, it is all on my travel guide - http://tourism-philippines.com/batanes.

Check mo. :)

RonnieR

February 18th, 2010, 02:05 PM

O sya sige, para lalong lumamig ulo natin- eto some of my photos of my Batanes trip. Visit these islands if and when you get the chance...

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs072.snc3/13969_217520571281_530586281_4649904_6914453_n.jpg

beautiful place. I hope I can visit this place this April...I really want to see Batanes. :)

RonnieR

February 18th, 2010, 02:06 PM

British reality TV athletes face tests in Philippines

by Patrick Camara Ropeta, ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau | 02/18/2010 6:11 PM

A group of British women traveled to remote parts of the Philippines to face grueling challenges for a reality show in the United Kingdom. The female athletes endured difficult tasks in different parts of the world to prove their physical and mental prowess, two of which involved stick fighting in Luzon and raft racing in Palawan.

Competing for the title of "Last Woman Standing", participants had to go through an intense selection process to demonstrate their skills, experience, health and fitness. Five women were selected from England, Northern Ireland, and Kenya, including Lesley Sackley, 27, Alex Alam, 19, Anna Campbell, 23, Joni Swanston, 23, and Natalie Smith, 29.

With strong athletic backgrounds, they form an impressive list of achievements in various sports like rugby, boxing, wakeboarding, horse riding, running, body building, cycling, kite surfing, netball, and rock climbing.

The contenders were sent to different countries where they trained and competed in indigenous activities, immersing themselves in tribal communities as they learn and gauge their capabilities.

'Try out Kali'

As part of their challenge, they engaged with a Filipino martial art commonly used as self-defense by tribal women from the mountainous regions of Luzon. Kali, which was also used to ward off foreign invaders, is a complex fighting system using bamboo sticks.

Before competing against experienced local fighters, they had to endure a series of endurance trials to develop resilience, strength and technique. One of the participants recalled the experience as one of the hardest tasks they had to complete, because it was physically demanding and “very tough”.

They also visited a seafaring community in Palawan, where they had to build their own bamboo rafts and compete on a 12-kilometer race over strenuous choppy waters. They had to master the art of rafting and prove that they have stamina and determination.

On their Facebook blog for the show, the girls revealed that some of them enjoyed the task more than others: “The Tagbanua women are at home with the ocean. Much of their time is spent on bamboo rafts half submerged in water whilst fishing to provide for their families. Natalie and Lesley don’t like deep water much, but Anna, Alex and Joni love [being in] the water.”

Whilst in the Philippines, the contestants were introduced to a rare local ‘snack’, the Tamilok worm, which can be found inside tree trunks on wetlands. The women were brave enough to try the raw delicacy, but later commented that “it tasted like a big phlegm”. Another one said that “it’s not that bad, but it tasted like ass.”

Pinoy hermits

In an interview with DJ Jo Whiley on Radio One, the athletes revealed that one of the most interesting experiences they have had involves an encounter with a mysterious Filipino hermit.

“We didn’t really believe in magic, but this man was just something special. He lived in the mountains, and he was a hermit. He lived there for a year just living off herbs and moss growing on rocks. The kind of thing you read about in books. He has a real aura about him”, they explained collectively.

They continued: “We have these necklaces that we still wear today that will give us luck and keep us protected. He took us to this mountain, which was a really long climb, and he blessed it for us. It was a really spiritual experience, and an incredible thing to be part of.”

The women also participated in Huka Huka Wrestling and Xavantes Log Race in Brazil, Water Buffalo Racing in Indonesia, and Tarahumara Endurance Race in Mexico.

"Last Woman Standing", which airs on BBC Three, follows in the footsteps of a similar series from 2009, "Last Man Standing".
as of 02/18/2010 6:11 PM

jpdm

February 18th, 2010, 02:32 PM

RP eyes $17-billion tourism industry

By GENALYN KABILING
February 18, 2010, 7:20pm
Manila Bulletin

Sun, water sports, more hotels, and better transportation system are expected to propel the country's booming tourism sector into a $17- billion industry this year, government officials said Friday.

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director Dennis Arroyo said the country’s natural wonders, complemented by improved tourism infrastructure, have attracted more local and foreign tourists to the Philippines.

“By 2010, the industry’s contribution to gross domestic product is targeted to reach US $17 billion or 13.6 percent of GDP,” Arroyo told reporters in Malacañang.

At least 5.2 million local and foreign tourists visited the Philippines in 2009, or 16.66 percent higher than 2008.

Arroyo said the Philippines could compete as an attractive tourist destination due to its proximity to northeast Asia, particularly Japan, China, and South Korea, world-class natural attractions, and ability to create substantial niche markets.

The country’s main selling point, he noted, is marine biodiversity that has promoted diving and other water sports activities in many islands.

“We have sun all year round,” Deputy Presidential Spokesman Ricardo Saludo said of the country’s warm weather that attracts foreigners and enable them to take a respite from the chilly weather in their homelands.

At present, Camarines Sur tops the list of tourist destinations in the country, with a total of 1.29 million tourist traffic last year. South Koreans and Americans are leading the pack of foreign tourists in the country.

Arroyo said the country’s tourism sector is also booming after the successful promotional activities taken by the Department of Tourism, expansion of low-cost carriers and operation of more chartered flights.

“The use of existing airports, hotels, and transportation systems was maximized as the number of tourists increased and stayed longer,” he added.

Arroyo said he hopes the next administration could continue to prioritize tourism as driver of economic growth.

“Why is tourism important for the economy? It can serve as a powerful growth engine because it is global in size; the Philippines has strong potential for tourism industry; the industry can accommodate large levels of investment, its local value-added is very high, it create direct and indirect jobs, it generates huge foreign exchange inflows, and it can be developed quickly,” he said.

To achieve its growth target for the year, Arroyo said the government should continue to improve tourism infrastructure, particularly hotels and road networks, more air service agreements, and easy visa requirements.

He also suggested that the vigorous development and promotion of the country as retirement haven for Filipinos working abroad.

“We have 1.7 million Filipino-Americans who will retire by 2015. That’s a very big market. They worked hard in the US and they save money, and they come home to retire because it’s much cheaper here. We should tap that,” he added.