Tuesday, October 07, 2008 Espina: Fair time for tourism By Mila C. Espina In my diary
THE period between the end of September and early October was good for tourism. The fabulous opening of Microtel last Sept. 22 saw a cross-section of Cebu’s industry and diplomatic stake holders. Graced by Gov. Gwen Garcia, the affair ended with colorful fireworks.
The Marco Polo Hotel hosted a presscon lunch to introduce the Grand Beer Fest, or the popularly known Oktoberfest (Oct. 7-11), a night of endless beer drinking in a simulated Bavarian village where guests partake a variety of German dishes! The Bavarian Sound Express provides the gyrating music.
“Let’s go on an Island Banca Cruises at Punta Engano and experience Cebu in an island-hopping delight,” invited Jay Aldeguer! This certainly is a breakthrough in local cruising that makes tourism more enlivening. Added to this, is the Jetscapes Adventures, a tropical island adventure, launched at the Cebu Yacht Club recently. The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, PhilExport Cebu, Spa and Wellness Association of Cebu, Ayala Center and Cebu Health and Wellness had the MOA signing for the forthcoming Beauty and Wellness Fair.
Well, it seems the thrusts on water sports and adventure tourism, health, wellness and spa, tour attractions and affordable hotel accommodations discussed three years in a row in the Cebu Business Month Tourism Congress 2006,2007 and 2008 are indeed gaining ground, spiraling into a multiplier-effect. Even the Cebu City Tourism Commission has identified shopping tourism as one of its programs.
Meanwhile, my friend Bunny Pages led the launching of the autobiography of Dr. Augustus Ouano, entitled Motivation and Opportunity, at the Casino Espanol. Bunny said the “book is a discovery of passion and opportunities which leads to a meaningful life!” A toast to one of Cebu’s best emcees — Bunny!
Korean Air had dinner with tour agents to introduce its new product destination at the Casino Espanol. Its lively RM Paul Han, sales representatives Ann Momongan and Ava Balbona and operation staff May del Castilla host monthly appreciation dinner to strengthen bonding with the industry.
TOUCHING BASE
I had the pleasure of serving as godparent to three students of Sisters of Mary (SM) Boys Town through the invitation of its local superior, Sr. Teresita Prudente, SM, on Sept.13. Then again, as a godparent to five students of Sisters of Mary-Girls Town upon the request of Sr. Emelan Lee, SM. The Amparito Lhuillier scholars of University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) and Speechcom International have the Big Brother-Big Sister cultural and communication partnership with the Sisters of Mary. The first project was the presentation of USJ-R’s concert tour on selected dialogues and music of Mamma Mia last Saturday, Oct.4, at the two campuses of the Sisters of Mary.
Other shows will be at USJ-R; Ayala; SM City; We Care, among others.
JOSENIANS EVENT AND MORE
The Josenians Alumni Association will hold a grand fellowship at 5 p.m., Oct.25, at the Sinulog Grand Ballroom of the City Sports Club, with the theme, Celebrating With Gratitude, hosted by TV personalities. There will be an announcement of the biggest project of the alumni. For details, call Tony Esmero, Albert or Marvin, nos.255-3060; 253-7900, local 219; or text 09277945332.
My apologies to old friend Lani Echavez Paredes who photo was inadvertently captioned as Lani Verdan in my Sept.30 column. She is very engrossed in her position as directress of Benedicto College, which is preparing for the inauguration of its new edifice at A.S. Fortuna. The old building is being renovated for the pre-school and grade school which are part of the expansion program.
