Diverse and low-cost tour packages in the Ilocos Region are featured at the 34th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM), the longest and biggest tourism fair in the country.

Held at the SMX Convention Center of Mall of Asia in Pasay City from Sept. 1 to 3, the PTM provides an avenue for various tourism stakeholders nationwide to promote their respective travel destinations.

Fresh from joining a tourism and trade mission to New York and New Jersey in the United States last week, Xavier Ruiz, acting provincial tourism officer, said Friday the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office, together with partner travel agencies and the Ilocos Norte Investment team are in the metro again, selling Ilocos Norte’s new normal attractions for the “domestic market.”

“For as low as 2,388 per head, tourists can explore this northern gateway of Luzon inclusive of accommodation, breakfast, tours, and transportation,” he said.

Also featured in this year’s attractive tour packages are the Ilocos Sunrise Tour and Adventure at PHP1,899, city Adventure Tour at PHP1,599, the Exotic Ilocos Tour at PHP1,999, the Northern Ilocos/Vigan Heritage Tour at PHP1,599, and Ilocos Free and Easy at PHP1,599, among other promos and packages to choose from.

To entice more visitors, Ruiz said the Ilocos Norte booth at Hall 3 showcases a visual feast of picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences the province has to offer.

Last year, Ilocos Norte’s participation at the Travel Mart generated almost PHP10 million in potential sales and sold PHP4.3 million worth of travel tickets, accommodation, tour packages, events, and visas, and PHP 58,000 worth of food and non-food products.

Ruiz expressed hope that they will be able to surpass last year’s sales after the three-day travel trade fair to sustain the province’s tourism network and boost tourism-oriented businesses and local enterprises. (PNA)