When one considers tourism, they think of resorts, beaches, and the like. Today, tourism is more than that. There are divisions of tourism on wellness, which focuses on relaxation; agriculture, which looks at farms and gardens; business, where travelers can look into potential investment; health, where tourists take advantage of medical procedures; along with ones that center on food or sports.
Every destination has its own potential and “environment tourism” and “people tourism” could add even more value to a locale.
A city’s sanitation practices are an attraction in itself. Tourists can learn how government keeps their surroundings clean. For example, despite Marikina City having no garbage bins, visitors are impressed with its cleanliness.
In addition, Marikeños do not walk around half-naked or in sando, there are no makeshift barbeque stands, they do not set up sidewalk stands, and locals do not litter or throw cigarette butts on the street.
Other examples include Baguio City, for travelers who wish to experience cold weather; and General Santos City, for those who love fresh tuna.
Bacolod City currently attracts a lot of sports fans due to the high quality of football. While the city does not boast any resorts, culinary tourism could also make a big difference.
Many local government officials are not enthusiastic about undertaking tourism projects; some do not see the potential of their respective areas, others do not care. However, for those hardworking individuals, they are seeing the fruit of their labor in the tourism sector – local officials must innovate tourism promotions and value the sites that attract visitors.
For instance, places like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, and Indonesia have tourist buses operating along roads and highways, why isn’t it as prevalent in the Philippines?
***
This column greets Des Segovia, Harry Fernan, Herm Javellana, King Fernan, Boy Montalbo, Monju Guanzon, Dodong Bascon, Raymund Gatuslao, Vic Tan, Leo Rey Yanson, Mark Yanson, Gerard Tupas, Mae Panes, Ping Jimenea, Ray Tabafunda, Arte Colmedora, and Michael Angelo Trani./WDJ