The Department of Tourism (DoT), in cooperation with Globe Telecoms, Skoal Advertising and the Island Caravan Tour Consortium recently kicked-off a one-of-a-kind tourist trek, the "Island Caravan 2005."
Offering supreme convenience for the traveler and a unique cultural experience, the Island Caravan hopes to help boost the tourism industry by promoting the country’s different destinations and of course, our trademark Pinoy hospitality.
DoT Secretary Joseph Ace Durano commended the project, saying it lends support to the drive of the government to stimulate domestic tourism, as it introduces the traveling public to the alternative concept of caravan traveling – a motorcade of vehicles or the use of various modes of transportation.
"Island Caravan also helps promote the development of the tourism potential of other provinces or regions, as the caravan itineraries include areas that have not yet been established as tourist destinations," he said, noting that previous caravans attracted local and even foreign tourists from Thailand, Korea, Finland, and the USA.
Island Caravan is ideal for foreign tourists and balikbayans who have not visited the Philippines for quite some time, as the packages allow both foreign and domestic travelers to experience the country at its best, in a fun and hasslefree way. With its numerous and varied tourist spots, cultural sites, and ecological wonders, our country is the perfect vacation destination, especially this summer. Island Caravan’s attractions range from eco-adventure activities and sports to cultural presentations, parties, and pilgrimages, making it a "totally awesome travel adventure."
"What makes our tours special is that they are comprehensive and multifaceted," said Cesar Cruz, president of the Island Caravan Consortium, composed of several leading travel agencies. This island-hopping activity will traverse through a special route along the Strong Republic National Highway. All the essentials for an enjoyable vacation are carefully planned out: Meals, accommodation, itinerary, and transportation arrangements. Participants will also receive a warm welcome from local officials and residents in each destination, through the DoT’s endorsement.
Island Caravan will have four major runs this summer and eight thematic runs throughout the year. The first summer run, "Island Quest: The Nautical Highway Adventure," kicked off last April 1 which took participants to the finest beaches in Puerto Galera and Boracay, and a visit to the town of Calapan in Oriental Mindoro.
The second run, dubbed as "Tropical Jewels: The Visayan Charm," will start tomorrow. This leg of the caravan will explore the sites in Cebu, Bohol, Dumaguete, and Siquijor. The two other major runs are the "North Philippines Expedition: The Great Outdoor Escape" slated on April 29 to May 3, which will feature Bayombong, Banaue, Ilagan, Peñablanca, Pagudpud, Laoag and Vigan; and the ‘Southern Feat: The Trailblazing Challenge’ on May 20 to 24, which will traverse the provinces of Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, Agusan del Norte, Surigao, Siargao and Davao.
In addition, the thematic runs will cover the other areas of the Philippines, focusing on "undiscovered" places that have the potential to become prime tourist destinations including "Heroes Journey" (June 11-13) Bulacan, Clark, Subic, and Bataan; "Palawan Escape" (June 17-19) Puerto Princesa; "Bohol Heritage Tour" (July 15-17); "North Luzon Rediscovery" (Aug. 19-21) Baguio, Manaoag, Alaminos, Hundred Islands, and Bolinao; "Marian Pilgrimage" (Sept. 8-11) Antipolo, Laguna, Quezon, and Naga; Camiguin Trail (Oct. 13-16; "Bicol Express" (Nov. 26-28 Legaspi, Donsol, Sorsogon; and "Batanes Scenic Border" Dec. 9-11.
With its wide range of offerings, Island Caravan gives participants of various ages and backgrounds a chance to discover and delight in our country’s wonders. The educational and cultural tours would be perfect for teens and school children. The outdoor adventure trips, on the other hand, would appeal to young people and professionals as barkada or company outings, while others are ideal for family vacations.
Adventurous explorers can also enjoy worry-free connectivity with Globe International services as they discover the Philippines with Island Caravan’s distinctive tour packages. The globe Traveler’s SIM, being your essential travel partner in the Philippines, lets you stay in touch with family and friends abroad with Globe’s 40 cents IDD. The traveler SIM also provides access to tourist information and services like airline, car rental, tourist sites, hotels and resorts and a whole lot more in just a few clicks. Other services such as Globe International Text (R15 per send in Globe Prepaid) and International MMS (R20 per photo, R40 per video) provide more communication options.
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