In 2024, the Philippines ranked a dismal 7th among all 11 Southeast Asian nations when it comes to foreign tourist arrivals. The country’s estimated 5.5 million arrivals is short of its annual target of 7.7 million tourist arrivals, and a far cry from Thailand’s 28 million tourists. Developing countries Vietnam and Cambodia even ranked better than the Philippines.
Tourism policy makers are quick to pinpoint poor infrastructure and inaccessibility of some islands as major reasons for the bad performance. The group at the 9th World Travel Expo, however, which are composed of airlines, hotel groups, travel agencies, and travel brands, said that promoting what the country can offer — its destinations and products — is key.
At the World Travel Expo, which will be held at the Space in One Ayala, Makati from October 17 to 19 and Ayala Malls Manila Bay in November 14 to 16. Event organizer Miles Caballero of Ad Asia Events Group OPC is excited to continue making the event a venue for collaborations and partnership between travel stakeholders, which would give travelers more options and more discounted rates in accommodation, transport and experiences.
While the World Travel Expo hugely caters domestic travelers international guests are also welcome and actually account for the foot traffic in the previous years.
For travelers and families, participants can expect exclusive airfare, hotel and tour packages, knowing more of local and international exhibitors composed of companies and brands from airlines, hotels and resorts, cruise lines and even tourism boards, and joining in fun raffle and cultural exhibits in booths. Guests can also enjoy local products and giveaways.
Entrance fee is P80 pesos for walk-ins and P50 for those who book their tickets online. You can visit adasiaevents.com and the World Travel Expo’s Facebook page.
