Travel firms position Cebu as ‘experiential destination’

CEBU, Philippines — Anticipating the high expectations of tourists visiting one of the top 100 destinations in the world—Cebu, local travel operators are working hard to make Cebu an “experiential destination” more than just mere sightseeing.

According to Cebu Alliance of Tour Operations Specialists (CATOS) president Alice Queblatin the efforts of meeting Cebu’s newly gained reputation as one of the best destinations in the world, should be taken into serious consideration by both private and government players.

“The positive first impression upon arrival has to be sustained till their departure. We need to be serious in our commitment to deliver the ‘Filipino Brand of Service’, the battlecry of the DOT to attract more guests to the country,” added Queblatin.

In her recent visit to Cebu, Euromonitor International U.K. head for travel research, Caroline Bernner challenged the tourism stakeholders around Asia Pacific region to embrace the shift of tourism market preference, which is going basic, more grounded, and highly experiential.

“It’s the return of experiential travel, where travelers [around the world] prioritize spending on experience than buying goods or products,” Brenner said.