A Cebu-based tour operator noted that the beaches and aqua sport like diving remain among Cebu’s top attractions that lure foreign tourists such as those from the United States and Europe.
Jenny Franco of Travelvision also urged the public and private sector to work together in ensuring a clean and protected environment in the province to sustain a regular influx of tourists.
Franco, also chairman of the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies—Cebu chapter, said she will join the Philippine delegation in promoting the country’s diving shops and spots in the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (Dema) Show 2009.
The international trade-only event for diving, action water sports and adventure industries will be held in Orlando, Florida on Nov. 4 to 7.
”This will really be a good opportunity for the Philippines to increase its tourist arrivals and to promote the country as a diving destination,” Franco said.
She said she will be the only tour operator from Cebu in the event and that this is her first time to join the Philippine delegation to the upcoming dive show.
Kasai Village Beach Resort, a dive resort in Moalboal, Cebu, is another Cebu-based delegate.
Travelvision, where Franco sits as president and managing director, began offering dive packages around 1999. Established in 1991, the tour company promotes Cebu’s diving destinations, culture and heritage sites, and sports tourism activities.
”Many tourists come to Cebu from January to May when it is the cold season in their countries and stay in our beaches. The peak season for diving in Cebu is still during summer,” Franco said.
She identified the US and Europe as among the top tourist markets for Cebu’s diving destinations such as Moalboal and Malapascua.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has participated in international dive shows, including the Bay Area Dive Show and the Tacoma Dive and Travel Expo, both held last April in the US, and the Scuba Dive Show 2009, also in the US, last May.
Tourism Secretary Ace Durano earlier identified North America as a huge potential market for diving.
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The Department of Tourism (DOT) has participated in international dive shows, including the Bay Area Dive Show and the Tacoma Dive and Travel Expo, both held last April in the US, and the Scuba Dive Show 2009, also in the US, last May.