Local tourists likely to prefer farm attractions after the crisis

CEBU, Philippines — More local tourists are expected to embrace farm destinations as their choice of interest post-pandemic times, according to Philippine Farm Tourism Development Association (PFTDA).

In a recently concluded webinar, PFTDA president Josie Costales, expressed high confidence that among other destinations that are expected to recover faster, are the farming attractions.

He said as people are becoming more conscious about their health and wellness going forward after the pandemic, more tourists, especially locals will embrace farm tourism as they seek immunity-boosting escapes.

Costales, who also sits as chairperson of Costales Nature Farms, said that the post pandemic era will make people more conscious of their food intake or choices, as well as sources.

Farm tourism, she added will become more appealing to a bigger market segment as interest of people to re-connect with nature, after going through depressing lockdowns, will heighten.

Farm tourism is the key to addressing the changed travel and tourism landscape, she noted.

“During the lockdowns people turned to urban gardening. They learned how to plant,” she said.

Under the new normal, farm tourism sites have imposed stricter guidelines, such as the wearing of face masks, observing social distancing and limiting the number of guests to visit the farm.  She mentioned her own farm, which ventured into digital processes, such as online booking and cashless transactions.

Farm tourism is the practice of attracting visitors and tourists to farm areas for production, educational and recreational purposes which involves any agriculture or fishery-based operation or activity and may also provide a venue for outdoor recreation and accessible family outings.

Apparent from its title, the R.A. No. 10816, also known as the “Farm Tourism Development Act of 2016”, recognizes that combining tourism with agriculture can disseminate the value of agriculture in the economic and cultural development of the country, serve as a catalyst for the development of agriculture and fishery communities, and provide additional income for farmers, farmworkers and fisherfolk.