Next Rest Area: A Haven for Travelers

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is stepping up its efforts to promote tourism in the Philippines by introducing a new initiative - the Tourist Rest Areas. These rest areas are designed to provide comfort, convenience, and amenities to travelers while on-the-go. According to Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, these rest areas will be built in 12 selected destinations across the country.

Each rest area will feature a coffee shop, pasalubong center, tourism information area, comfort rooms, and charging stations. The design of these rest areas is unified, with Filipino elements incorporated into the architecture to provide a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Frasco emphasized that any Filipino can be a good tourism ambassador, just like American actress Vanessa Hudgens' promotion of the Philippines to the world.

The DOT is also promoting its travel incentive program, 'Bisita, Be My Guest,' which rewards Filipinos who invite foreign tourists to visit the country with special prizes. To qualify, individuals must register as sponsors and ensure that their invited guests stay for at least 15 days in the Philippines. This initiative aims to increase tourism arrivals and create more jobs in the industry.

In addition to providing amenities, the DOT is also focusing on maintaining cleanliness standards. Frasco stressed that rest areas will have toilet paper available at all times, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors. The department is working closely with local government units (LGUs) to ensure compliance with maintenance criteria, and those that meet the 90% standard by the end of the year will receive financial incentives.

The DOT has already broken ground on 10 tourist rest areas in various destinations, including Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte, Baguio City, Cebu, Palawan, Bohol, Samal Island in Davao Del Norte, and Bukidnon. The department plans to add more rest areas this year, with two 'huge corporations' expressing interest in partnering with the DOT to build these projects.

The Tourist Rest Areas also aim to provide opportunities for local vendors, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and pasalubong makers to sell their goods. This initiative is expected to boost the country's economy by promoting domestic tourism and creating jobs for Filipinos.

In summary, the next rest area is a haven for travelers, providing comfort, convenience, and amenities in various destinations across the Philippines. With its unique design, Filipino elements, and commitment to cleanliness, these rest areas are poised to become tourist attractions in their own right.

Next rest area