DOT launches tourism website offering SEA Games visitors some travel treats, tour packages

For the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is offering visitors of the event some travel treats as they launched a tourism website.

In a press statement released on Monday, DOT said at least 11,000 visitors are expected to arrive in the country for the games, "some of whom are expected to stay and visit top travel destinations in the country."

DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said SEA Games is an important opportunity "to showcase the best of the Philippines in a very accessible manner, so that we can win as one nation and as one ASEAN."

On the SEA Games microsite, visitors both local and foreign can have a hassle-free experience on booking activities and destinations.

"Featured in the microsite are various sports activities, Philippines’ cultural heritage sites, beaches, local cuisines and products, among other uniquely Filipino offerings," DOT said.

DOT also has SEA Games visitors tour packages for tourist spots in Manila and provinces in Luzon.

"Tour packages include guided cultural tours and dining with entertainment shows in Manila; private resorts in Laguna; heritage tours and nature exploration in the Ilocos region and Zambales; beach and diving activities in Batangas, adventure and recreational activities in Pampanga and Tarlac, and many more."

Tourism counters in airports and hotels have been set up to give assistance and information on nearby destinations.

Information booths with 9,000 trained volunteers have also been deployed "to showcase the Filipino brand of service to visiting SEA Games participants and tourists."

The website is in collaboration with Guide to the Philippines, DOT's official partner, with offered packages and promo rates available only for the duration of SEA Games.

The SEA Games is currently underway. It will run until December 11, 2019. — Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/LA, GMA News