Department of Tourism Bares Philippines Top Tourist Destinations Of 2003

14 April 2004
Department of Tourism Bares Philippines Top Tourist Destinations Of 2003

The Department of Tourism statistics office revealed that the provinces of Cebu and Bohol in Central Visayas were the top destinations frequently visited by foreign tourists in 2003.

Statistics showed that a total of 232,478 foreign tourists visited the Central Visayas Region last year. Cebu's international gateway was one of the key factors for the influx of tourists because of direct flights connecting Cebu to and from other countries in the world. As a major hub, it brings tourists closer to the other local tourist destinations in the region faster.

Among the foreign tourists who frequented Cebu and Bohol were the Japanese, Koreans, Taiwanese, Americans, Germans and British. Survey revealed that the beaches are the number one tourist attractions in Central Visayas.

Many tourists also flocked to Southern Tagalog Region to experience the beaches of Palawan where many world-class resorts like Ammanpulo, El Nido, Club Noah, Club Paradise, Lagen among others, are found. Around 77,927 foreigners were recorded to have visited the region last year.

Many foreign tourists visited Subic and Clark in Central Luzon because of the beaches in the area, likewise, the destinations were noted as tourism economic zone. Statistics showed that there were 75,222 foreigners who visited Region 3 last year and among these foreign visitors were Americans and Europeans. Special chartered flights provided easy accessibility for the tourists.

In Western Visayas, Boracay continue to beckon foreign tourists. A total of 70,445 foreign tourists and 513,451 local tourists were recorded in 2003, among them were Koreans, and Americans, Germans and British.

The accessibility of Davao international airport to the other hubs has contributed to the influx of more foreign tourists to its various tourist attractions. Surveys revealed that Japanese are still the number one tourists in Davao.

The Shrine of the Miraculous Lady of Manaoag in Pangasinan lured many foreign tourists because of its popularity among the pilgrims and devotees. The splendor of Vigan ancestral homes that remain radiant despite the passing of two centuries has attracted many foreign tourists to the north. Laoag is a major hub leading to Subic, Olongapo, Zambales, Manila and other tourist destinations.

The cool climate and rich culture of the highlanders made Baguio an attractive destination for local and foreign tourist thus, making it as one the top tourist destinations.

Foreign tourists, mostly adventure enthusiasts were attracted to the Callao Caves in Cagayan Province and the Kalinga River for white water rafting and kayaking. This year, Tuguegarao in Cagayan Province will be the center of international events with the celebration of the 400th year of the Miraculous Lady of Piat.

Topping the list of favorite destinations among the local tourists were Palawan, Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Cagayan Province, Baguio and Davao. Many local travelers flocked to these places while others opted to visit their provinces to take advantage of the five day long weekend Lenten holidays last week.

Who needs Travel Warnings? Its Safe travelling to the Philippines... Tourists are coming inspite of the unfair Philippines Travel Warning.

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