Monday, December 05, 2005

More Chinese Tourist Welcomed

More Chinese Tourist Welcomed



The Department of Tourism (DOT) has intensified its campaigns in China by adding tourist attractions next year.

Chinese tourists, who are now the Philippines’ fastest-growing market, has consistently recorded a growth rate of almost 10 times its usual average.

DOT Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano, in a statement, said latest arrivals statistics showed Chinese tourists posted a growth rate of 189.4 percent last September compared to the same period last year.

“This impressive improvement has roused our spirits in our incessant pursuit of acquiring a sizeable portion of their outbound travelers,” Durano said.

New destinations



By next year, DOT will start advertising Subic, Clark, Davao and the new Manila as additional tourist destinations for Chinese tourists.

The DOT has been attending travel fairs and consumer events in China to beef up marketing promotions.

It showcased diving, golf, wellness and spa services. (From PR)

Entertainment: Blue Wave Strip Mall

Entertainment: Blue Wave Strip Mall



Even with the mushrooming number of establishments promising to be a unique hangout, many are still left dissatisfied and constantly searching for the perfect place to have that distinct unwinding experience. But amidst all the nightspots claiming to be the newest playground for the urban elite, there is one leisure sanctuary that has been Manila’s best kept secret for years.

The first things you’ll notice in the Blue Wave strip mall are the Palm trees and lush gardens, reminiscent of sunny California streets. Nestled in the heart of Macapagal Blvd. corner EDSA extension, Blue Wave has a unique tropical charm enhanced by the picturesque view of Manila Bay. In the center of the parking lot stands a Petron station surrounded by an upscale spa, a classy coffee shop, a row of food chains and a Treats convenience store. Those who have precious gas station memories of hot meals and intimate conversations would agree that aside from additional conveniences, this feature gives Blue Wave an inviting, homey atmosphere. And as the cool breeze softly grazes your skin, you are instantly filled with nostalgic warmth, giving you a preview of the promising night ahead.

Upon entering the covered walkway, you are immediately greeted by an open air courtyard illuminated by yellow lights hanging from the trees. It is enriched by a diverse selection of food joints and upscale restaurants offering mouthwatering cuisines that suit every budget. Let your taste buds savor the best dishes the world has to offer – from the herb-rich noodles of Vienne Cuchi (French-Vietnamese) and tasty sushis of Kimono Ken (Japanese) to spicy delicacies from Krua Thai (Thai) and freshly-backed pizza of Plato Platina (Italian). Dining al fresco is made even dreamier, by the soft murmurs of the romantic bay breeze and the grandeur of the star-filled sky.

For entertainment, Blue Wave holds various events that cater to the people’s different tastes and ages. The strip mall pumps with youthful exuberance on Fridays and Saturdays as the courtyard holds free musical performances. The young and the young at heart party to a different theme and genre featured every week from rock to R&B, jazz to ethnic. Sundays are always for family bonding as puppeteers and magicians join other performers in filling the strip mall with enchantment and wonder. Big concerts and unique events are held quarterly, giving the Blue Wave patrons always something fresh to look forward to.

With its colorful blend of exquisite dining and compelling entertainment, Blue Wave Macapagal is an exotic jewel for night life aficionados. Whether it’s your first visit, or first of many, Blue Wave will never cease to amaze you with something new.

Macapagal Blvd. corner EDSA extension
Manila, Philippines