Thursday, December 28, 2006 Top travel destinations of 2006 By Kristin Aldana-Lerin
WHEN the travel bug bites, where does the wanderlusting Cebuano head off to? A chat with the city’s frequented travel agencies gave us an interesting picture of where the suitcase-lugging, camera-clicking, fanny-pack-wearing globetrotters flew to this past year to soothe their itchy feet.
A nation of shopaholics able to sniff a sale a few countries away, need you be surprised that this year’s number one destination is shopper’s paradise Hong Kong? Okay, okay, patawad¸ the recent opening of Hong Kong Disneyland has easily fortified this favorite’s grip on the top spot.
Singapore swings
Closing in on Hong Kong at the number two spot is Singapore. The Lion City’s aggressive marketing campaigns backed by irresistible prices and promos are starting to pay off. Travelers who take the trip have no regrets either: a compact destination with a variety of attractions, metropolitan feel and safe ambiance coupled with the ease of getting around are appealing plus factors. For some travel agencies, Singapore holds the top spot and many predict that it may overtake Hong Kong across the board.
Bangkok backs it up
Hong Kong and Singapore “regulars” opt for Bangkok for a change of scenery. Shopping is still top on the agenda, of course, while the good food provides a welcome gastronomic side trip.
Chasing China
Mainland China has been attracting its share of visitors with its promotional rates and the surge of low-cost carriers that fly to the area. It’s for the savvy tourist with a preference for the socio-cultural over shopping. Popular places of interest are Beijing, Shanghai and Xiamen. But retail therapy hasn’t totally been scratched off the itinerary as side trips to Hong Kong are not uncommon.
Fixtures at five
The number five slot sees a mix of destinations. Closer to home, Malaysia is gaining ground with its marketing efforts. The popularity of neighboring Singapore has worked towards its advantage as some agencies have been packaging a “twin cities” tour that highlights both Singapore and Malaysia. Interest for scenic Siem Reap in Cambodia with its exotic flavor has also increased within the past year. Europe, of course is a popular destination for those who can afford it. The US, on the other hand, generates bookings all-year round.
Holy journey
Some travel agencies make their bread and butter on pilgrimage tours, thus affirming that there is a market for this type of travel. Top bookers are tours to the Marian shrines in Europe followed by visits to the Holy Land.
Cruises carry on
Popular among older couples are cruises due to their laid-back pace. Frequently visited areas include the Mediterranean and Scandinavia.
Family affair
With tourism raking in the big bucks for a lot of countries, destinations are now keen on offering a little bit of something for everyone at a reasonable price. So when mom and dad travel, now, so do the kids.
