A winter escapade in Asia may just be the answer for those dreading the dark cold days of winter in Canada.
The Philippine Embassy in Canada with the Department of Tourism is now offering something new just for Canada, according to abs.cbnnews
“We have decided among all ourselves, consuls general and the embassy that we must have our own in Canada - and the difference between the US and the Canadian tour is that US hold their tour in summer while ours is in winter because the weather is better, climate is good, and fare is cheaper,” said Ambassador Leslie Gatan.
Gatan added, “And the US approach is different. They make their basic tour in Manila while ours, we go direct to the province and, for the first time, we will go to Visayas, go to the Panay Island, go to Kalibo for the Ati-atihan, Boracay, and Iloilo for the Dinagyang”.
The first-ever Winter Escapade - It’s More Fun in the Philippines, was recently launched in key cities in Canada.
Set to take off mid-January when sub-zero temperatures is at its peak, the tour aims to give participants first row seats to some of the Philippines’ best attractions.
From holistic hideaways, to island idylls, and hala-bira’s, the full package get away, is set for about C$850.
“Bukod sa medyo magandang weather sa Pilipinas, kasi summer tayo pupunta sa Pilipinas, while napakalamig dito sa Winnipeg ay maganda rin ang presyo. $850 per person. Punta tayo ng Kalibo, Boracay, Iloilo, Guimaras, and then final is Manila joining with the president of the Philippines again. At saka yung treatment talaga, VIP treatment for very, very reasonable price,” said Ronald Opina, Honorary Consul for Tourism.
The package however does not cover international travel from Canada to the Philippines.
Natie Sotana joined one of the Ambassador’s Tour before but she’s eager to join the Winter Escapade too.
From balikbayans, to mainstream Canadians, the escapade participation is anticipated to go a long way in boosting the nation’s economy.
“They’d be able to contribute to the economy of the Philippines, because for every 1 tourist - it gives a job for 1 year to a Filipino. Can you imagine if you bring 300 Canadian participants there’ll be job for 300 people in the Philippines, at the same time, they enjoy, and at the same time, they help the economy,” said Gatan.
More information about the Winter Escapade can be found on their website
www.winterescapadeph.com. Registration is ongoing until October 30.