THE Philippines is pitching itself as a luxury destination for Indian travellers, buoyed by the unprecedented investment boom in integrated resorts, luxury hotels and experiential attractions.
Within the next two years the country will see the launch of a number of luxury properties including a Conrad hotel near Mall of Asia, Grand Hyatt and Shangri-La at Bonifacio Global City and Nobu Hotel City of Dreams Manila.
While Bali and Thailand are popular for Indian destination weddings, where group sizes can reach 500 pax, the Philippines hopes to become a new option for couples tying the knot.
Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu has been particularly successful in attracting wedding parties from India, noted Sanjeet, India representative for Department of Tourism (DoT).
“Hotels just need to keep the banquet halls ready. (The couple) can bring their own priest from India, the wedding planners will fly their own people in and do everything, even rent chefs if the local hotels allow,” said Sanjeet.
Honeymooners are another market the Philippines wants a crack at, as India’s younger generation enjoys beach destinations.
Sanjeet added that the Philippines has become a stand-alone destination for the younger segment, who are drawn to parties, nightlife, shopping and beaches.
To draw these target markets, DoT will continue attending tradeshows in India including SATTE for the first time in January 2015, conduct fam trips for India’s travel trade, hold roadshows in India and educate the trade through the Philippine Specialist Programme launched in August.
