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| Delegates from 40 leading travel agencies worldwide participating in the "Connections Wellbeing Philippines" event co-organized by Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines and Connections Luxury (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/Tourism Promotions Board Philippines) |
The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines and Connections Luxury, the international private community for trusted decision-makers in luxury travel, have successfully launched a bid to establish the Philippines as a luxury wellness destination in addition to its long-standing reputation for beach, dive and leisure travel. Industry leaders representing 40 leading agencies from markets including the UK, US, Brazil, South Africa, Australia and Portugal have graced and attended the inaugural Connections Wellbeing Philippines event held last April 16-19, 2023 with the objective of forging long-lasting business relationships with selected luxury hotels, boutique properties and experience providers from the destination.
Before travelling, 60% of the agencies had identified the Philippines as a new destination for their high-net-worth clients. Following the event, declared reasons to promote the Philippines to luxury clients included its unspoiled natural beauty, the Filipino hospitality, its authenticity compared to other southeast Asian destinations and its wellbeing opportunities. Connections Wellbeing Philippines has since boosted the confidence of agencies to sell the destination, with predicted inbound spend within the next 12 months from attending agencies rising to over US$10M which is an overwhelming 1,611% increase compared to projected sales prior to the event. “We are proud to have hosted the inaugural Connections Wellbeing event. The Philippines has so much to offer as our facilities bridge Western and Eastern treatments in their holistic wellness programs,” shared TPB Chief Operating Officer Margarita Montemayor Nograles.
Delegates also had the opportunity to discuss wellness tourism trends and the immense growth potential in the Philippines. A poll completed by attendees revealed that clients interested in wellness travel prioritise spa and health facilities, followed by nutrition, relaxation, and sustainability. Discussions that followed brought to light the increasing demand for customised and personalised wellness experiences. Guests seek tailored programmes that address their specific health needs, preferences, and goals. Nograles added, “Beyond increasing tourism arrivals, we also look at the economic impact of the quality of tourists we bring to the Philippines. The luxury industry promises to yield strong economic results across accommodations, retail, and our food and beverage sectors.” Participants emphasised the significance of collaboration amongst government organisations, luxury travel agencies, wellness resorts, and medical professionals to better educate clients on the comprehensive wellness experiences the Philippines can offer.
