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Beyond Expectations: Philippine Tourism Soars in 2023

Tourism Department

THE SUN HAS SET ON 2023, and for Philippine tourism, it’s a golden sunset reflecting a year of exceeding expectations. From record-breaking visitor numbers to international accolades, the industry has roared back to life, painting a vibrant picture of resilience and growth.

Beyond Targets:

  • Foreign arrivals surpassed the 4.8 million target, hitting a dazzling 5 million by December 12th.
  • Tourist receipts smashed through 2022’s figures, reaching PHP439.5 billion as of November, just a whisper away from pre-pandemic levels.
  • South Korea led the charge as the top source market, followed by the US, Japan, China, and Australia.

Growth Engine:

  • Tourism Secretary Frasco hailed the industry as a “strongest pillar” of the economy, generating employment for over 5.35 million Filipinos.
  • Infrastructure projects like rest areas, roads, and flights received a big push, with 18 more rest areas planned for 2024 and PHP16 billion invested in tourism roads.
  • International seat capacity recovered to nearly 80% of pre-pandemic levels, with Frasco actively pursuing direct flights from key markets like France, UK, and Italy.
  • There’s so much to discover about The Philippines
  • Philippines is Promising

Unrivaled Charm:

  • The Philippines once again captivated the world, winning “World’s Leading Dive Destination” and “World’s Leading Beach Destination” at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
  • “Global Tourism Resilience Award” and “World’s Leading City Destination” for Manila cemented the country’s leadership in travel and hospitality.
The Tourism Department worked hard in re-creating Philippines awarenes in the eyes of travelers in different parts of the world.

Beyond Beaches:

  • The new “Love the Philippines” campaign showcased the nation’s diverse tapestry of culture, heritage, and history, not just sun and sand.
  • Initiatives like the “Philippine Experience Programs” explored lesser-known destinations and enriched understanding of local traditions.

Cautious Optimism:

  • With a 7.7 million target set for 2024, experts see potential, but remain cautious about relying solely on traditional markets like China and Japan.
  • LPC expects Southeast Asian neighbors and the Korean market to play a key role in achieving this target.
  • Increased foreign investment in tourism infrastructure projects like the New Manila International Airport offer promising signs for future growth.
Philippines Tourism: promising

A Year of Triumph:

Overall, 2023 has been a remarkable year for Philippine tourism. With resilience, innovation, and a focus on diversifying its offerings, the industry has not only met its goals but exceeded them, setting a bright stage for continued success in the years to come.

FUTURE-FORWARD: WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE PHILIPPINES TOURISM IN 2024

2023’s performance carries both promising and challenging implications for Philippine tourism in 2024:

Positives:

  • Strong Momentum: Exceeding 2023’s targets builds confidence and momentum for 2024. The industry has proven its ability to attract visitors and generate revenue, even amid global challenges.
  • Diversification: The “Love the Philippines” campaign and focus on lesser-known destinations offer greater resilience against potential slowdowns in traditional markets like China and Japan.
  • Infrastructure Developments: Investments in rest areas, roads, and airports improve accessibility and attractiveness, potentially boosting arrival numbers.
  • Foreign Investment: Increased interest from foreign investors shows confidence in the sector’s potential, leading to potentially faster growth and development.
  • Government Support: The DOT’s continued efforts in marketing, infrastructure, and direct flight negotiations demonstrate commitment to the industry’s success.

Challenges:

  • Reaching the 7.7 million target: While achievable, it depends on attracting new markets and mitigating potential slowdowns in existing ones. Southeast Asia and Korea offer promising growth, but further diversification might be needed.
  • Global Uncertainties: Economic slowdowns in key source markets and geopolitical issues could hamper travel, requiring adaptability and targeted marketing.
  • Seasonality: The industry remains heavily reliant on peak seasons, creating pressure to extend tourist flows throughout the year.
  • Sustainability: Balancing rapid growth with environmental and cultural preservation is crucial to ensure long-term success.

Overall:

2024 holds immense potential for Philippine tourism. The industry’s momentum, diversification efforts, and government support provide a strong foundation. However, addressing challenges like market diversification, external uncertainties, and seasonality will be crucial to achieving ambitious goals and ensuring sustainable growth.

Staying agile, focusing on unique selling points, and investing in sustainable practices will be key to navigating 2024 and securing a bright future for Philippine tourism.

Remember: This is a general analysis. Further research and data on specific market trends and competitor strategies would be necessary for a more detailed assessment of 2024’s outlook.

/withhelpfrombard

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Agoda names Baguio, most affordable festive destination in the whole country

crayzneri - instagram

Forget the pricey flights and packed beaches! This new year, escape to Baguio, the Philippines’ most affordable holiday destination, and experience a festive wonderland without breaking the bank.

Cozy Comfort on a Budget: With an average room rate of P5,400, Baguio offers cozy accommodations that won’t leave you shivering from sticker shock. Nestled amidst the cool mountain air, charming cabins and quaint hotels provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploring.

Festive Cheer at Every Corner: Christmas in Baguio is a feast for the senses. Stroll through the Session Road adorned in twinkling lights, marvel at the towering Christmas tree at Mines View Park, or immerse yourself in the vibrant Christmas market at Burnham Park. Every street corner bursts with festive cheer, ensuring you’ll be filled with holiday spirit.

Baguio’s night market remains the go-to place for people who wants to keep the night young and hang out with friends. (???? themi.organization, ig)

Beyond the Baubles: While the Christmas decorations are a sight to behold, Baguio offers much more than just festive cheer. Hike to the breathtaking Camp John Hay, explore the majestic Tam-Awan View Deck, or lose yourself in the whimsical Burnham Park. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and endless activities, Baguio guarantees an unforgettable vacation.

More Than Just Baguio: Treat yourself to a day trip to the nearby strawberry fields of La Trinidad, witness the enchanting Bencab Museum, or discover the cultural treasures of Benguet. Baguio is your gateway to a wealth of experiences that broaden your horizons and enrich your Christmas spirit.

Affordable Doesn’t Mean Unforgettable: From delicious local cuisine to warm local hospitality, Baguio offers an authentic Filipino Christmas experience without the hefty price tag. So, ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary this holiday season. Choose Baguio and celebrate Christmas in the Philippines’ most affordable, yet magical, destination.

The Malacanang Palace of the north houses the vacation spot of the Philippines’ President (???? brian__james_04, ig)

FUTURE-LOOKING: WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR BAGUIO?

The story about Baguio being the most affordable Christmas destination in the Philippines has both positive and potential negative implications for tourism in the Philippines compared to its Southeast Asian competitors:

Positives for Philippine tourism:

  • Increased Competitiveness: This recognition highlights the Philippines’ ability to offer affordable Christmas experiences compared to other popular destinations in Southeast Asia like Bali, Phuket, or Langkawi. This can attract budget-conscious travelers seeking good value for their money.
  • Diversification of Destinations: Baguio presents a unique alternative to traditional beach Christmas getaways. Its cool mountain weather, festive atmosphere, and cultural offerings can appeal to different traveler preferences and expand the appeal of the Philippines as a Christmas destination.
  • Boost to Local Economy: Increased tourist influx to Baguio during the peak season can stimulate local businesses like hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour operators, creating jobs and boosting the regional economy.
The colorful houses of Baguo perched on a hillside. (???? khientchiko.fennel, ig)

Potential Negatives for Philippine tourism:

  • Perception of Value: While affordability is attractive, solely focusing on the “cheap” aspect can create a perception of the Philippines as a low-cost destination lacking luxury or unique experiences. It’s crucial to emphasize the value proposition beyond just price, highlighting Baguio’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and festive charm.
  • Competition for Travelers: Baguio’s affordability might draw budget-conscious travelers away from other Philippine destinations like Boracay or Palawan, potentially impacting their tourism revenue during peak season. Marketing efforts may need to emphasize the unique offerings of each destination to ensure balanced distribution of tourist traffic.
  • Overcrowding and Environmental Concerns: A sudden influx of tourists in Baguio could strain its infrastructure and resources, leading to overcrowding and environmental issues. Sustainable tourism practices need to be implemented to manage the increased demand responsibly.

Overall, the story presents both opportunities and challenges for Philippine tourism. By leveraging Baguio’s affordability as a strategic advantage while promoting its unique cultural and natural offerings, the Philippines can attract a wider range of travelers and strengthen its position as a competitive Christmas destination in Southeast Asia. However, ensuring sustainable practices and diversifying marketing efforts across different destinations are crucial to maximize the benefits and minimize potential downsides.

Remember, reader, this is just a general analysis. Further research and insights into specific competitor strategies and traveler preferences would be necessary for a more detailed assessment of the story’s impact.

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Mega Bridge Project Set to Connect Panay, Guimaras, and Negros!

Exciting news for the Western Visayas region! The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has signed a crucial contract with Korean companies to design the Panay-Guimaras-Negros Islands Bridge Project, a game-changer for transportation in the area.

This mega-project, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Build, Better, More” program, involves building two massive bridges:

  • Panay-Guimaras Bridge: 13 kilometers long, connecting Panay Island to Guimaras.
  • Guimaras-Negros Bridge: 19.47 kilometers long, connecting Guimaras to Negros Island.
Two monumental bridges are set to connect three island provinces

DESIGN PHASE

The design phase, expected to be completed by 2025, will pave the way for construction between 2025 and 2032. Once finished, the project promises to:

  • Slash travel time: From a four-hour ferry ride, crossing between Panay and Negros will take just one hour!
  • Boost economy: Improved connectivity will open up new opportunities for trade and tourism.
  • Enhance lives: Easier transportation will benefit residents of all three islands.
A planned sketch of how the bridges will connect the three island regions

FUNDING

Funding for the design comes from a Korean loan, and construction will be covered by a separate budget. This ambitious project signifies the government’s commitment to developing infrastructure that benefits Filipinos and fuels regional growth.

So, stay tuned for updates on this exciting development! The Panay-Guimaras-Negros Islands Bridge Project is poised to transform the landscape and lives of Western Visayas.

Key takeaways (in simpler language):

  • Two giant bridges are being built to connect Panay, Guimaras, and Negros.
  • Travel time will be significantly reduced, making transportation easier.
  • This project will boost the economy and improve lives in the region.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR TOURISM IN THE REGION

The Panay-Guimaras-Negros Islands Bridge project promises to be a tourism game-changer for the Western Visayas region, injecting a shot of adrenaline into its tourism industry. Here’s how:

1. Faster, Easier Travel: Imagine ditching the four-hour ferry ride and zipping between islands in just one hour! This dramatic reduction in travel time will make exploring all three islands much more accessible and enticing for tourists. Day trips from Panay to Guimaras and Negros become a breeze, opening up a wider range of destinations and itineraries.

2. Island Hopping Bliss: With seamless connections, tourists can easily embark on island-hopping adventures, savoring the diverse attractions of each place. From the pristine beaches and laid-back vibes of Guimaras to the cultural treasures and natural wonders of Negros, a whole new world of exploration awaits.

3. Untapped Potential Unlocks: This bridge unlocks previously inaccessible areas, revealing hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Imagine secluded beaches, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages that were once difficult to reach. Tourists can now venture deeper into the region, enriching their travel experiences and supporting local communities.

4. Booming Business: Easier travel leads to increased visitor numbers, injecting a much-needed boost into the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and souvenir shops will all benefit from the influx of tourists, creating new jobs and opportunities.

5. Diversifying Options: The bridge opens up possibilities for niche tourism segments. Adventure seekers can conquer challenging hikes on Negros, nature lovers can immerse themselves in the lush landscapes, and history buffs can delve into the rich cultural heritage of each island. The diversity of experiences will attract a wider range of tourists, further strengthening the region’s tourism appeal.

Overall, the Panay-Guimaras-Negros Islands Bridge project is a beacon of hope for tourism in Western Visayas. It promises to unleash the region’s full potential, attracting more visitors, creating jobs, and driving economic growth. So, get ready to experience the magic of these islands like never before – the bridge is paving the way for an unforgettable adventure!

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MANDALUYONG CITY MAKES HEADWAY IN IMPROVING TOURISM IN THE NEXT SIX YEARS

Nolan Angeles heads the city tourism department and is tasked to see to it that the city's growth in tourism will expand further and stronger that will provide employment and more facilities to put Mandaluyong on the map of important cities to enjoy tourism in Metro Manila.

IN ITS SECOND of a three-part workshops, Mandaluyong City through its City Cultural Affairs and Tourism Department (CCATD) invited the private sector where Crossroads Manila attended to take part and contribute in the city’s effort to improve tourism in the city and become a contributor in the country’s program for economic growth.

The workshop entitled Mandaluyong Tourism and Cultural Depelopment Plan was facilitated by BIODEV, Inc. which specializes in urban planning, researched, developed, and conducted the event to get more help from the private sector so it can tackle tourism plans and maximize the city’s potential natural, historical, and commercial destinations and improve it further and attract more investments as it were. Strategically, the city was divided into four hubs where it plans to situate tourism growth. The proposed Mandaluyong Hubs touted to bring potential tourism growth are:

HUMANITYVILLE – Where the landmarks and heavyily-situated residential areas are such as Welfareville Compound and Addition Hills. It is also where history and declared cultural properties are located such as the Jose Rizal University, BSA Townhomes, and works of national artists found in Population Center Foundation.

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CBD) – Where towns of Wack-Wack Greenhills, Pleasant Hills, and Highway Hills are located. It is the largest of all the hubs. CBD is heavily known as the shopping district where high-rise residential and commercial places are found including the the Wack-Wack Golf Course.

CIVIC CIRCLE – Highlighting the center of governance where the government is located. Several landmarks are also situation in this area which are the Kaban ng Hiyas Building, Congressional District Library, The Dambana ng Alaala, and many more. The Civic Circle is composed of four barangays, which are Muaway, Plainview, Barangka Drive, and Malamig.

RIVER LINE – Based on the Pasig River line where residntial area of Mabini-J. Rizal, Namayan, Vergara, hulo, Barangka Ibaba, Barangka Itaas, Barangka Ilaya, and Buayang Bato which all have access to the river.

City stakeholders and the private sector teamed up to brainstorm and create proposals for the city council’s approval in growing the city’s tourism prospects.

The hubs are meant to highlight the diversity of the city’s possible areas of showcases and help stakeholders and future administration heads plan out what and how to maximize the areas for tourism growth. Each area are protracted to gain from what organizers indicate would be growth for employment, discovery and protection of heritage sites and activities, other programs and projects that will be identified in a six-year program that leaders would tackle.   

Throughout the day-long seminar, delegates were guided by the working vision crafted during the first workshop held in August, “Mandaluyong envisions to become globally competitive, adaptive, sustainable, and state-of-the-art for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE).” The attendees brainstormed ideas and sought ways in identifying challenges each hub faces in the areas of global competitiveness, ability to adapt (being resilient), to be sustainable, and having state-of-the-art facilities for MICE activities. Each challenge was paired with ideas on how to solve or address it through measurements that the City Council can tackle after the facilitators would summarize it in a report that will be given this month for budget purposes.

Site development planner, Arch. Miguel Fernando Ortiz shared the proposed development plans the city has lined up to develop and improve public fixtures important to the growth of the city's tourism plans.
Site development planner, Arch. Miguel Fernando Ortiz shared the proposed development plans the city has lined up to develop and improve public fixtures important to the growth of the city’s tourism plans.

Energized by new delegates and attendees, innovation, friendly, progressive, and environment sustainability were strong statements that provided key factors in gathering many ideas in solving many tourism challenges the city is facing in reaching its vision to becoming one of the leading tourism spots in The Philippines. Crossroads Hostel is one of the only two accommodation establishments (AEs) that attended the event, which expressed gratitude to the leadership of CCATD Head, Nolan V. Angeles who spearheaded the fact-finding mission with the support of then mayor and now Vice-Mayor Menchie Abalos.

Mandaluyong is home to more than 400,000 residents faced with some overpopulation and flood problems to deal with as it tackles numerous potential for economic growth thereby giving each local citizens a measure of prosperity. 

  • Hon. Menchie Abalos emphasized the importance of getting more information and feedback from the private sector in order to make the project work.
    Hon. Menchie Abalos emphasized the importance of getting more information and feedback from the private sector in order to make the project work.
  • Nolan Angeles heads the city tourism department and is tasked to see to it that the city's growth in tourism will expand further and stronger that will provide employment and more facilities to put Mandaluyong on the map of important cities to enjoy tourism in Metro Manila.
    Nolan Angeles heads the city tourism department and is tasked to see to it that the city’s growth in tourism will expand further and stronger that will provide employment and more facilities to put Mandaluyong on the map of important cities to enjoy tourism in Metro Manila.
  • Almost 100 attendees came for the event.
    Almost 100 attendees came for the event.
Some of the highlights of the event that took place in the Auditorium of Kaban ng Hiyas inside the area of the City Hall.

Crossroads Hostel Manila is one of the accommodations Mandaluyong has that is accredited by the Department of Tourism offering basic services for tourists, backpackers, and traveling local residents looking for a clean, secure, and safe place to stay.

For more information on this story and how the hostel can you or business owners, call +639478957600. We can be reached through WhatsApp and through our Facebook Page facebook.com/crossroadshostelmanila. /kca

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DOT GRANTS CROSSROADS HOSTEL MANILA ACCREDITATION RENEWAL

shows the owner posing in front of the DOT logo and the certificatekuwadrodigital

THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM granted Crossroads Hostel Manila accreditation to operate as a duly recognizeo Mabuhay accommodation until October 31, 2024. This is the fifth accreditation the tourism bureau gave the hostel for as long as the hostel open back in 2014. Crossroads Hostel first received its accreditation in 2016 and it helped the hostel tremendously especially during the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hostel didn’t close its doors because it is one of the few accredited properties recognized by the Tourism Department back in March 17 2020 called upon by the national government to continue accepting visitors and use it as a quarantine location. The hostel used its badge in a different way. During the lockdown, it helped essential businesses in the private sector to continue operating such as the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. Crossroads Hostel continued to provide accommodation to key member staff and it worked well until such time when Work from Home was encouraged.

According to DOT’s website, accreditation by the Tourism government agency would give the following benefits:

  • Endorsement to COMELEC for exemption from liquor ban during election-related events*.
  • Endorsement to embassies and travel trade association for utilization of establishment’s facilities and services.
  • Being prioritized for DOT training programs
  • Endorsement to internation and domestive airports (if appropriate) for Issuance of Access Pass to Qualified Personnel**.
  • Qualification for Exemption from the United Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) of the Metro Manila Development authority (MMDA)***.
  • Endorsement to Land Transportation Franchising and regulatory Board (LTFRB) for Issuance of Tourist Transport Franchise***. Technical / Security / Facilitation Support or assistance.

*For accommodation establishments and restaurants only.

**For Tour Operators and Accommodation Establishments only.

***For tourist Land Transport Vehicles only.

Because of such benefits, Crossroads Hostel Manila will continue to seek the government’s accreditation because it provides the hostel not just credentials but reassurance to guests that they are in a safe place, a safe location, and a safe space to rest and transact business when necessary. 

To date, Crossroads Hostel has earned an average customer rating of 9.0 out of 10 stars. This is a remarkable feat considering that it is a budget accommodation and its rating outlasts some of the three to five star hotels nearby.

Get the same experience. Book a safe, secure, and clean place to stay with us. Call +639478957600 for more information. Guests can reach us via WhatsApp and we can immediately book your stay with us in no time.

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Why Backpack in The Philippines

What better way to impart the message of what a backpacker hostel is than to actually allow more people to experience what backpacking is all about in this country.
Crossroads Hostel Manila is now offering package tours to different parts of the country from very interesting places to bucket-list places that one should go to before they pass this earth.

Let your feet do the talking

Let your feet do the talking


What is Backpacking?
Backpacking is your old fashioned way of getting around places and it’s practiced by more and more people around the world because the experience is nothing like luxury and you get to meet people and do stuff that other packages would offer that is not what you’d expect from locals who can give you the feel and experience you will never get by getting on more expensive tours that offer bus trips, boat tours, and plane rides. Backpacking is touring countryside while immersing yourself with the culture and vibrant lives of locals living in those places.
Is it expensive?
It costs to get around, however, you can be sure that these rates are much lower compared to the one offered by big, established tour agencies. What’s the goal of these lower rates? To get you around faster without cutting quality and safety. You still get the same 4×4 rides you get from others, same boats, same buses, same tents — it’s just easier to reach.
Can I customize my trips?
You bet! In fact, you and your friends can design your own trips, do your own destination, at the dates you want. It’s that simple for as long as you can organize seven-member barkadas and more.
How much is the cost to designing my own tours?
PhP2,000 for Day trips and PhP3,500 for overnight to two day trips. The cost goes higher depending on how many sites you want to visit.
When should I time our trips?
The best time to get around is between January – May and between November to December depending on the weather situations of course.
We have three places you can try to visit this year and we’re sure you are gonna have a lot of fun. Please email us if you have questions or even call us at +63 (2) 984-9844. Please try calling us Manila time if in case you’re reading this from another country.

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Taxes Out, More Tourists In!

Commercial Airliners will surely line up to bring in more visitors

Commercial Airliners will surely line up to bring in more visitors


Crossroads Hostel learned that the Philippine Senate recently passed its own version of the Bill, which the Lower House passed much earlier that will remove burdening taxes that continue to discourage airliners from bringing in more passengers to The Philippines. The President is expected to sign the Bill into Law very soon, which airline industry experts say will make The Philippines more attractive than ever in getting its tourism business further off the ground.
For travelers, the said airline taxes is estimated to bring the cost of airline tickets down by as much as eight percent and is estimated to bring in PhP455 Billion pesos worth of revenues from tourism and could most-likely generate six million jobs.
This would mean better infrastructures, better services, and better prospects in showing what the 7,107 islands have to the delight of travelers especially backpackers.
In this regard, Crossroads Hostel will continue to provide high value service to budget travelers looking for a place to stay in after they’ve landed in Manila. This is definitely a Win-Win situation both for our country and for our full-service business.
We wrote this post because of this news we saw today from INTERAKSYON:

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Five Reasons: Philippine Tourism can Survive Without China

Mountaineers can trek Mount Pinatubo and enjoy scenes like this in the country


The Philippines do not need to cry when China announced that they’re putting the country out of the Chinese tourists’ map. It’s not the Philippines’ lost when Chinese authorities campaigned against the country because of the Scarborough Shoal stand off. Here are some of the reasons why:
1. Language – English is the common language when people of different nationalities communicate and talk. Chinese can opt to go to Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia but they will not be able to communicate as clearly and solidly like Filipinos can.
2. Climate – The Philippines is blessed with warm tropical climate and tourists can enjoy the season with sunbathing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and the likes in a lot of tropical destinations like Camarines Sur, Cagayan de Oro, Bohol, Palawan and not just Laoag and Boracay where tourists usually flock to.
3. Budget – Compared to Malaysia, Thailand, and even Guam, the Philippines can extend the value of any foreign currency. Can you imagine eating lunch – a la Filipino style – in Lucban, Quezon for just a dollar? Imagine all that food you can take in if you double, triple, or quadruple your budget and still feel like a millionaire with all the money to spare?
4. Hospitality – When it comes to hospitality, there’s nothing like the hospitality of this part of the continent. Where else can you feel closer to home than in a country that treats visitors with much care and love like the Philippines? It is something that Koreans and Americans know and sadly Chinese don’t think the same way.

Gota Beach. An upcoming attraction


5. Adventure – Boracay may have missed 200,000 visitors in May but there’s still a lot of nations it can tap to replace the loss the Chinese authorities are bragging about when they don’t see the beauty of other tourist destinations in Davao, Iloilo, Cebu, Albay, Zambales, Batangas, Pampanga, and a lot more other spots that they will not enjoy.
There’s more to the Philippines than the couple of hundreds of thousands of visitors the country is missing right now but it’s not really our loss when their government is trying to control the very freedom that each Chinese should experience flocking to a country that has yet to be explored. There is really more fun in the Philippines and 200,000 people are missing all the fun. It’s a pity that Crossroads Backpackers Hostel wishes that the Chinese will unveil themselves so they can soil in the fun and know how they can be part of the country’s beauty.
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Taste our Philippines

Filipino dishes, instead, colors the ‘palate’ of your mouth


I find it hard to title this piece but yielded to what will catch your imagination of our food in the Philippines. Filipino dishes can be the most un-colorful bunch but dishes like Chicken Adobo, Lumpia, or Pancit can give your tongue a delightful sensation only your mouth can define.  Filipino dishes burst with flavors from salty, sweetness, and spicy and everything in between. I remember my lunch that my wife cooked me this morning. A spoonful of savory sweet, salted shrimp paste pork (called “Binagoongang” <Bee-na-go-ong-ang Bah-boy>) White Jasmine rice, and a bite of an unripened mango breaking off in your mouth releasing flavors that just screams with impact. It haunts my mouth giving my palate a bit of work. My senses gets flooded with thoughts that nothing has ever discovered it. It’s indeed a find, the best of Philippine dishes in gastronomical proportions.
Why don’t you taste our Philippines and the Department of Tourism’s Kulinarya Food Trips? This is where visitors and locals alike can dive deep into the different flavors of foods found in different parts of the country’s regions. There are more than ten food trips you can join and enjoy a hearty feast while touring the country with your belly filled and fulfilled.
Come and visit the Philippines and bite into the fun of sumptuous dishes not all can partake. We guarantee that booking your travel with Crossroads Hostel will not just add more value to your tours, give more into your pockets but will allow your taste buds to go wild screaming for more of these flavorful dishes that only our country’s Kulinarya Food Trips can give.
[slideshow]
Images Acknowledgements

  • Dinguan – http://www.skiptomalou.net/2010/06/to-be-fierce.html
  • Chicken Adobo – http://bakecookeat.blogspot.com/2009/08/adobong-manok-chicken-adobo-filipino.html
  • Chicken Pastel – http://totoslechon.com/chicken-menu/chicken-pastel/
  • Bistek – http://onefilipinodish.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/small_bistek004.jpg
  • Halo Halo – http://365greatpinoystuff.wordpress.com/2010/01/11/11-halo-halo/
  • Chicken Afritada – http://www.alicekalaw.com/files/2011/02/DSC02944.jpg
  • Caldereta – http://www.filipinouk.co.uk/forum/showthread.php/36925-Beef-Caldereta-(Or-is-it-Kaldereta-)
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Launched! Philippines Tourism TVC

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecfEmSJrrbs]

Dare to stare with a Tarsier


The first thing that caught my attention was the engaging of what seemed like the 70s Disco-era beat then a techno-sounding voice of who I thought was Apl.D.Ap of Black Eyed Peas (Also Filipino!) repeatedly saying, “It’s more fun in the Philippines, It’s more fun…”
I couldn’t believe that this 30-second ad is what my country is playing now in CNN showcasing the memes of a viral campaign the Department of Tourism started months ago that caught a lot of Filipinos’ fancy. The ad is indeed fun and it poses an intriguing question to suspecting travelers who have yet to discover the country’s appeal and charm, “What will you come up with?”
So why stand in the sidelines? Play this ad over and over and dive into what you can uncover and tell us what you think of fun in the Philippines mean. Book your travel to the Philippines now and add Crossroads Hostel to your plans and save more while you savor the allure of this country.

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