By Euden Valdez| Contributor
Looking forward to a better 2017, Turespaña, the Tourist Office of Spain for Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand Tourism, generously hosted a thanksgiving affair for Philippine-based travel agents at the Discovery Primea in Makati City.
Leading the gathering was Turespaña Director Eva Maria Riesgo Ramos, who greeted guests with gratitude for their continued support for Spain through good and bad times. Joining her was Vien Cortes, regional market analyst, who refreshed everyone’s memory on why Spain remains to be one of the best tourist destinations in Europe.
In a presentation, Cortes cited world-class accommodations, unparalleled sight-seeing tours, gastronomic experiences and cultural immersions as some of the leading traits of Spain’s well-rounded tourism.
Topping her long list of must-tries is a luxurious stay at paradores, a series of monasteries/convents, castles and other historic establishments converted into traditional-styled hotels replete with modern amenities and services. About a hundred are scattered all over Spain, but the 12th-century paradore is found in Toledo, the old Spanish capital before Madrid.
In terms of tours, Cortes mentioned that Spain is home to 15 Unesco World Heritage places, meaning that the whole city, and not just a particular site or monument, was inscribed by United Nations organization.
In addition to these heritage places are visits to famous Spanish destinations, like the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the museums of Madrid, and the beautiful Mediterranean islands of Ibiza and Majorca.
Don’t miss out on a night of tapas filled with fun conversations among locals. For a unique food trip, go to Valencia and try paella cooking.
As a showcase of Spanish culture, flamenco dancers performed a highly technical and energetic numbers throughout the rest of the evening.
Of course, trips to Spain will not be possible without effective transportation. And for that, Qatar Airways was invited at the event. The airline operates about 20 weekly flights to both international airports of Madrid and Barcelona, with a stopover and even a complimentary tour at Doha. Of course, comfort and safety are also assured when flying with Qatar Airways.
Another option would be SilverSea Cruises, an Italian shipping company, which is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and long vacation.
Melvyn Yap, marketing manager for the Asia-Pacific segment, suggested that Filipinos must experience the Silver Muse, the newest ship to be launched this April. By June it leaves Barcelona port for a 12-day cruise at the Mediterranean Seas until it docks in Rome, Italy.
Finally, the great Spanish adventure is not complete without shopping, which is considered the best in the world. Proving this was Silvia Martinez, the international marketing and tourism officer of El Corte Ingles, the most iconic department-store company of Spain. With a 70-year history, El Corte Ingles is renowned to house the largest number of national and international retail brands inside its 93 department stores across Spain and Portugal. It’s a one-stop shop offering value for money.