SEA Games visitors up for some Pinoy travel treats with tourism website

The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched on Tuesday, a dedicated tourism web page for Southeast Asian (SEA) Games visitors.

This initiative is in line with Philippines’ hosting of the 30th SEA Games, where it is expected to generate an influx of at least 11,000 visitors for the games, some of whom are expected to stay and visit top travel destinations in the country.

“With the SEA Games, we would be receiving thousands of delegates across the ASEAN region and travelers from neighboring countries. As we are geared towards sustainable tourism, it’s an important opportunity for our country to showcase the best of the Philippines in a very accessible manner, so that we can win as one nation and as one ASEAN,” DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.

The tourism microsite (philippines.travel/seagames2019) will help SEA Games visitors – both foreign and local tourists, to explore the country while keeping abreast of SEA Games information. Featured in the microsite are various sports activities, Philippines’ cultural heritage sites, beaches, local cuisines and products, among other uniquely Filipino offerings.

Like DOT’s main website, the microsite is powered by the department’s official partner Guide to the Philippines (guidetothephilippines.ph) and offers special tour packages with promotional rates that are available only for the duration of SEA Games. GTTP is an online marketplace formed by various DOT accredited tour operators which goal is to ensure quality tourism experiences for travelers.

Tour packages include guided cultural tours and dining with entertainment shows in Manila; private resorts in Laguna; heritage tours and nature exploration in Ilocos region and Zambales; beach and diving activities in Batangas, adventure and recreational activities in Pampanga and Tarlac, and many more.

The DOT encourages SEA Games participants, foreign and local spectators to take advantage of the tours and enjoy the wonders of the country. 

Tourism counters are also placed in airports and hotels where the SEA Games delegates are billeted in to provide information on nearby destinations and to assist interested tourists in their purchase.

“Aside from the website, we are also here to assist our guests and athletes to ensure the best tourism experience possible, and to contribute to the smooth implementation and success of the SEA Games in general,” the DOT Chief also stated.

The Department has also deployed information booths and 9,000 trained volunteers to showcase the Filipino brand of service to visiting SEA Games participants and tourists. 

The SEA Games will officially start on November 30 and will culminate on December 11, 2019.