Saturday, November 30, 2013

PH hoping to attract more European visitors

LONDON – The Philippines came in full force with more than 40 exhibitors during the World Travel Market, the biggest annual travel event in London. More here: PH hoping to attract more European visitors

Expo to put NorthPhil in ASEAN’s tourism loop

While strategically located at the center of the archipelagic Southeast Asia, the Philippines is practically out of the region’s tourism loop, which runs half a ring along the northwestern and southeastern fronts – from Thailand and Vietnam to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. The loop makes land-based travel among those countries possible, even by rail, leaving the Philippines at the center ... More here: Expo to put NorthPhil in ASEAN’s tourism loop

Friday, November 29, 2013

France warns nationals vs 'resurgence' of terror attacks in Mindanao

France on Wednesday (Manila time) advised its nationals in the Philippines to avoid travel to parts of Mindanao, as it cited a "resurgence" of terrorist attacks there since late August. More here: France warns nationals vs 'resurgence' of terror attacks in Mindanao

DOT confident tourist arrivals will top 5-million mark this year

London — The Department of Tourism is confident that the Philippines will exceed the five-million tourists arrival mark this year, lower than the government’s earlier target of 5.5 million. On the sidelines of Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) Manila to London inaugural flight reception here, Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez Jr. said that the projected slower tourist […] More here: DOT confident tourist arrivals will top 5-million mark this year

Sparrow nurse to travel to the Philippines to help typhoon victims

Nursing is Ashley Forsberg's second career, the one she pursued a decade ago when her job as a computer programming subcontractor for the state was cut. Its also the most rewarding job she has ever had. A registered nurse with Lansings Sparrow Health System, Forsberg said shes a natural caretaker who delights at making patients smile. That doesnt change, whether the patient is in a bed at ... More here: Sparrow nurse to travel to the Philippines to help typhoon victims

Sparrow nurse to travel to the Philippines to help typhoon victims

Loading Photo Galleries ... How you can help typhoon victims | USA NOW: Relief organizations are working fast to send aid after Typhoon Haiyan slammed into the Philippines. More here: Sparrow nurse to travel to the Philippines to help typhoon victims

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Publicity over super typhoon ‘will help Philippine tourism’

TOURISM and travel experts say the international publicity the Philippines is gaining will strengthen its tourism industry in the near future. More here: Publicity over super typhoon ‘will help Philippine tourism’

Publicity over super typhoon ‘will help Philippine tourism’

TOURISM and travel experts say the international publicity the Philippines is gaining will strengthen its tourism industry in the near future. More here: Publicity over super typhoon ‘will help Philippine tourism’

Tourist tip #387 / Jewish film festival in Jerusalem

It begins with 'Peace after Marriage' touted as an Israeli-Palestinian version of 'Sex and the City'. Imagine that. More here: Tourist tip #387 / Jewish film festival in Jerusalem

Oakland doctor to travel to Philippines with team to offer Typhoon Haiyan relief

Many felt compassion at images of the wreckage left behind by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. But it was the photograph of a pregnant mother with her toddler staring at the devastation that convinced Pratima Gupta to leave her young son for two weeks and fly 18 hours and 7,000 miles to help. More here: Oakland doctor to travel to Philippines with team to offer Typhoon Haiyan relief

Tourists turn volunteers in typhoon-hit Bantayan Island

SURIGAO CITY (MindaNews/28 Nov.) — They came to visit different tourist spots in the country, but typhoon Yolanda changed their plans. Two French Nationals interviewed by MindaNews said they have… » More here: Tourists turn volunteers in typhoon-hit Bantayan Island

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Galera, Anilao among Asia-Pac’s top diving destinations

Two tourist spots in the Philippines have been dubbed by a hotel booking website as among the Asia Pacific region’s best diving destinations. The post Galera, Anilao among Asia-Pac’s top diving destinations appeared first on Good News Pilipinas . Related posts: Palawan in Lonely Planet’s Top 5 Tropical Islands Palawan and Boracay named two best islands in the World S&P says PHL to buck trend of ... More here: Galera, Anilao among Asia-Pac’s top diving destinations

See your own country before going abroad: Wego Study

Wego, the leading travel metasearch site in the Asia Pacific and Middle East, today revealed the results of a study showing just how much travellers are torn between seeing their own country first, and then the rest of the world. More here: See your own country before going abroad: Wego Study

Oakland doctor to travel to Philippines with team to offer Typhoon Haiyan relief

Many felt compassion at images of the wreckage left behind by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. But it was the photograph of a pregnant mother with her toddler staring at the devastation that convinced Pratima Gupta to leave her young son for two weeks and fly 18 hours and 7,000 miles to help. More here: Oakland doctor to travel to Philippines with team to offer Typhoon Haiyan relief

Travel Nightmares Across the Country

MANILA, Philippines (AP) -- Asian stocks were muted today as funds switched to better performing markets and trading thinned out ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S. More here: Travel Nightmares Across the Country

Galera, Anilao among region's best dive spots

MANILA – Two tourist spots in the Philippines have been dubbed by a hotel booking website as among the Asia Pacific region’s best diving destinations. More here: Galera, Anilao among region's best dive spots

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Singapore-Philippines charity match confirmed

The U23 teams of both nations will face-off in a charity match to raise funds for victims of the recent Typhoon Haiyan disaster More here: Singapore-Philippines charity match confirmed

Top Executive Protection Firm, the IMG Group, Releases Blog on Corporate Travel Security in Response to the ...

The recent typhoon in the Philippines has reminded many people of the threat Mother Nature poses to corporate travel security and executive protection. As a result, IMG group has released a blog on Typhoon preparedness for business travelers. (PRWeb November 26, 2013) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/-travel-executive/protection/prweb11367688.htm More here: Top Executive Protection Firm, the IMG Group, Releases Blog on Corporate Travel Security in Response to the ...

Monday, November 25, 2013

Jimenez: Why don’t we see tourists by the buses

I ASKED my own self this question. I asked myself while driving along the southern highway of Negros Occidental because in my Asian travels, I simply notice tourist buses filled with travelers. More here: Jimenez: Why don’t we see tourists by the buses

UK tour operators endorse PH as travel destination

UNITED Kingdom tour operators said they will be endorsing the Philippines as a “very suitable destination” for UK tourists who plan to visit Asia. More here: UK tour operators endorse PH as travel destination

Convict seeks freedom in NYC tourist killing

Almost a quarter-century after a notorious tourist slaying that fueled a sense of a city out of control, one of the convicted killers made a new bid for exoneration Monday, with the help of a … More here: Convict seeks freedom in NYC tourist killing

International development minister tours typhoon ravaged Philippines

Christian Paradis has arrived in the Philippines and will travel to some of the hardest-hit areas of the country, including Tacloban. More here: International development minister tours typhoon ravaged Philippines

International development minister tours typhoon ravage Philippines

OTTAWA - Canada's minister for international development is getting a first-hand look at the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan. Christian Paradis has arrived in the Philippines and will travel to some of the hardest-hit areas of the country, including Tacloban, Ormoc and Roxas City, where Canadian relief efforts have been concentrated. Senior Canadian officials, at a briefing in Ottawa, said the ... More here: International development minister tours typhoon ravage Philippines

American Fork brothers tell of Philippine typhoon

The typhoon that struck the Philippines earlier this month affected not only those who live or travel there but many others. Some of those are current or former missionaries of The Church of J… More here: American Fork brothers tell of Philippine typhoon

23 reasons it's great to be a tourist

Or 23 reasons to stop hating and start traveling. More here: 23 reasons it's great to be a tourist

Media Advisory: Minister Paradis to Travel to the Philippines

The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and Minister for La Francophonie, will travel to the Philippines from November 26 to 28, 2013, to witness the situation on the ground ... More here: Media Advisory: Minister Paradis to Travel to the Philippines

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Travel to Kota Kinabalu cut due to new flights

The three-hour travel time to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia from Puerto Princesa in Palawan has been effectively cut by more than two hours with the recent start of flights provided by MASwings Sdn. Bhd. More here: Travel to Kota Kinabalu cut due to new flights

International travel communities express confidence and support for PH tourism

(Photos by Linus Escandor)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_49876" align="alignright" width="346"] Relief goods continue to arrive for Yolanda victims.[/caption] As stories demonstrating the undying human spirit of the Filipinos continue to touch the hearts of nations all over the world, the international travel community is optimistic that the Philippine tourism industry will bounce back after ... More here: International travel communities express confidence and support for PH tourism

Editorial: Sustaining growth of Philippine tourism

Three international tourism bodies – the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) – are helping the Philippines in its tourism-related program in areas affected by the recent earthquake and super-typhoon. The government, through the Department of Tourism (DOT), said the outpouring of support ... More here: Editorial: Sustaining growth of Philippine tourism

‘Multiculturalism and natural surroundings state’s tourist assets’

KUCHING: The state’s multiculturalism and natural landscapes are Sarawak’s tourist strengths. In saying this, Tourism Minister Datuk Amar [...] More here: ‘Multiculturalism and natural surroundings state’s tourist assets’

Semporna kidnap: Brother of abducted Taiwanese tourist in Philippines for rescue mission

PETALING JAYA: The elder brother of Chang An Wei, who was abducted at the Pom Pom Island Resort in Sabah, is in the Philippines to secure the return of his sister. More here: Semporna kidnap: Brother of abducted Taiwanese tourist in Philippines for rescue mission

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Location of gunmen and kidnap victim is still not known

Kota Kinabalu: Philippine security officials believe that a group of gunmen holding abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei are still holed up in one of the smaller islands around the southern Tawi Tawi province. More here: Location of gunmen and kidnap victim is still not known

Semporna Kidnap: Location Of Chang And Filipino Gunmen Still Unknown

Pic : alt KOTA KINABALU : Sabah police are still trying to determine the location of abducted 58-year-old Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei and the Filipino gunmen who took her from the Pom Pom Island resort off Semporna in Sabah to southern Philippines. More here: Semporna Kidnap: Location Of Chang And Filipino Gunmen Still Unknown

Semporna kidnap: Gunmen still in Tawi Tawi island

KOTA KINABALU: Philippine security officials believe that a group of gunmen holding abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei are still holed up in one of the smaller islands around the southern Tawi Tawi province. Philippines National Police Sulu provincial chief Supt Abraham Orbita said inclement sea conditions were preventing the gunmen in bringing the 58-year-old Chang to Jolo island, the ... More here: Semporna kidnap: Gunmen still in Tawi Tawi island

Semporna Kidnap: Location Of Chang And Filipino Gunmen Still Unknown

Pic : alt KOTA KINABALU : Sabah police are still trying to determine the location of abducted 58-year-old Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei and the Filipino gunmen who took her from the Pom Pom Island resort off Semporna in Sabah to southern Philippines. More here: Semporna Kidnap: Location Of Chang And Filipino Gunmen Still Unknown

Semporna kidnap: Location of Chang and Filipino gunmen still not known

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah police are still trying to determine the location of abducted 58 year-old Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei and the Filipino gunmen who took her from the Pom Pom island resort off Semporna to southern Philippines. More here: Semporna kidnap: Location of Chang and Filipino gunmen still not known

Friday, November 22, 2013

Relax On The Philippine Island Of Boracay

The Philippines have been in the news lately with the devastating impact of Typhoon Haiyan – or Typhoon Yolanda as it is known here. The effect on the nation has been enormous, with thousands of people killed and millions displaced. However, despite the widespread devastation, many of the Philippines’ tourist areas have survived intact – […] (Visited 2 times, 2 visits today) The post Relax On ... More here: Relax On The Philippine Island Of Boracay

Semporna kidnap: Gunmen still in Tawi Tawi island, say Philippine authorities

KOTA KINABALU - Philippine security officials believe that a group of gunmen holding abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An Wei are still holed up in one of the smaller islands around the southern Tawi Tawi province. Philippines National Police Sulu provincial chief Supt Abraham Orbita said inclement sea conditions were preventing the gunmen in bringing the 58-year-old Chang to Jolo island, the ... More here: Semporna kidnap: Gunmen still in Tawi Tawi island, say Philippine authorities

Philippines prepares to resettle Haiyan survivors

Manila - Philippine authorities were on Friday preparing to resettle survivors of Typhoon Haiyan, two weeks after the record storm killed more than 4,000 people and displaced over 4 ... More here: Philippines prepares to resettle Haiyan survivors

Chinese tourist missing off Thailand island

/enpproperty--> BANGKOK - A Chinese tourist is missing off Thailand's Phuket island after falling from seaside rocks, the Chinese embassy said on Friday. The 20-year-old Chinese surnamed Gao and his 25-year-old friend, surnamed Liu, were taking photos on the famous Phromthep Cape Wednesday evening when both of them slipped and fell from into the sea, local media reported. An official ... More here: Chinese tourist missing off Thailand island

Chinese tourist missing after falling into sea in Phuket

A Chinese tourist is missing off Thailand's Phuket island after falling from seaside rocks, the Chinese embassy said on Friday.The 20-year-old Chinese surnamed Gao and his 25-year-old friend, surnamed Liu, were taking photos on the famous Phromthep Cape Wednesday evening when both of them slipped and fell from into the sea, local media reported.An official with the Chinese Consulate-General ... More here: Chinese tourist missing after falling into sea in Phuket

Hsu Li Min /theStar

KUALA LUMPUR: Police are quite sure that kidnapped tourist 58-year-old Chang An Wei is still alive, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar. More here: Hsu Li Min /theStar

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Editorial: Palawan Best Value Travel Destination

The island province of Palawan received another accolade as one of 10 “Best Value Travel Destinations” for 2014 by Lonely Planet, which cited its “great-value” mix of jungle rivers, limestone cliffs, and awesome beaches, and its attractions such as Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR), named one of New 7 Wonders of Nature, and the Bacuit Archipelago. With Palawan in the list are the Greek ... More here: Editorial: Palawan Best Value Travel Destination

Hsu Li Min /theStar

KUALA LUMPUR: Police are quite sure that kidnapped tourist 58-year-old Chang An Wei is still alive, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar. More here: Hsu Li Min /theStar

Constantly tourists die in Karon Beach Surf in Thailand

Thai Police named the victim as Edward Joseph Brookes, 63, a tourist on holidays in Thailand from England. According to local media reports this happened yesterday at Karon Beach in Southern Thailand, only hours after storm warnings were issued by local authorities. Mr Brookes disappeared inin front of Karon Municipality Stadium at 2:40pm By the time lifeguards noticed Mr Brookes was in ... More here: Constantly tourists die in Karon Beach Surf in Thailand

Canadian Travel Insurance Company Donates Over $11,000 to Red Cross’ Typhoon Haiyan Fund

Canadian travel insurance company, Travel Underwriters, has donated $11,216 to the Canadian Red Cross’ Typhoon Haiyan Fund in support of victims in the Philippines. The company’s Filipino employees hosted a relief lunch to collect donations. More here: Canadian Travel Insurance Company Donates Over $11,000 to Red Cross’ Typhoon Haiyan Fund

Weather dampens spirits search for missing Singaporean tourist continues

PHUKET: The search resumed today for missing tourist Gao Yang, who slipped from the rocks at ... More here: Weather dampens spirits search for missing Singaporean tourist continues

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

PRESS RELEASES

A lawmaker wants to require the printing of postage stamps in different denominations, which depict tourism sites in the Philippines, in support of the drive to arouse international interest in the country's tourist areas. More here: PRESS RELEASES

Taiwan fumes over Hisham’s callous remark

The casual remark made by Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein on the kidnap of a tourist in Pom Pom Island has angered the Taiwanese who have demanded an apology More here: Taiwan fumes over Hisham’s callous remark

‘Philippines still safe for tourists’

KUCHING: The Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur said the Philippines remain a safe destination for tourists, and tourism [...] More here: ‘Philippines still safe for tourists’

Site Last Updated 12:41 am, Thursday

KUCHING: UCSI Communications Sdn Bhd will place a donation box for the Pacific Asia Travel Associations (Pata) Foundation Philippines Relief Campaign at the two-day Asia Pacific Tourism, Hospitality and Technology (Apthat) Conference starting today. More here: Site Last Updated 12:41 am, Thursday

PHL wins a seat in UNESCO's World Heritage Committee

The Philippines is now part of an elite team deciding the tourist sites which should be included in the World Heritage List after the Philippines won a seat in UNESCO's World Heritage Committee. More here: PHL wins a seat in UNESCO's World Heritage Committee

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Win Domestic Roundtrip Ticket from AirAsia Zest: The Right Way to Fly

Last November 7,2013, I was invited by AirAsia Zest along with other travel and lifestyle bloggers for a dinner party at New Orleans in Bonifacio High Street. During the event, Jonathan Yabut – the first ‘Apprentice Asia’ winner gave us a brief presentation about AirAsia’s plans and other updates. AirAsia Zest Blogger Event in New […] (Visited 1 times, 1 visits today) The post Win Domestic ... More here: Win Domestic Roundtrip Ticket from AirAsia Zest: The Right Way to Fly

The Travel Corporation Pledges $20,000 to Typhoon Victims

DELRAY BEACH, FL -- The Travel Corporation has pledged $20,000 worth of aid to assist the victims of Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda). According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian ... More here: The Travel Corporation Pledges $20,000 to Typhoon Victims

Filipino group blamed for killed tourist

Malaysian police believe a terror group from the Philippines is behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist. More here: Filipino group blamed for killed tourist

Monday, November 18, 2013

Recto: Cut travel, logistics funds for relief efforts

MANILA, Philippines – Senate Pro Tempore Ralph Recto is proposing to slash the government’s spending for travel, utilities and communications in 2014 by at least P1.7 billion and instead use the money for calamity relief efforts. “By simply deducting P500 million from the bureaucracy’s P12.3 billion travel fund for 2014, we can already build 900 temporary bunkhouses that can house 10,800 ... More here: Recto: Cut travel, logistics funds for relief efforts

(POM POM KIDNAPPING UPDATES) Taiwan Tourist Not Targeted For Her Links Says Cops

Kidnappers had inside help/Google Images SEMPORNA: Police have claimed that kidnapped tourist Chang An Wei was not the sole target of her abductors because of her links to Taiwan’s First Lady. More here: (POM POM KIDNAPPING UPDATES) Taiwan Tourist Not Targeted For Her Links Says Cops

How To Help The Philippines After Typhoon Haiyan As A Volunteer Or Tourist

Officials at the United Nations now estimate that Typhoon Haiyan left more than 4,400 people dead and nearly 2 million others displaced after it swept through the Philippines earlier this month as one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded. More here: How To Help The Philippines After Typhoon Haiyan As A Volunteer Or Tourist

How To Help The Philippines After Typhoon Haiyan As A Volunteer Or Tourist

Officials at the United Nations now estimate that Typhoon Haiyan left more than 4,400 people dead and nearly 2 million others displaced after it swept through the Philippines earlier this month as one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded. More here: How To Help The Philippines After Typhoon Haiyan As A Volunteer Or Tourist

Cops: Taiwan Tourist Not Targeted For Her Links

Kidnappers had inside help/Google Images SEMPORNA: Police have claimed that kidnapped tourist Chang An Wei was not the sole target of her abductors because of her links to Taiwan’s First Lady. More here: Cops: Taiwan Tourist Not Targeted For Her Links

Family of abducted tourist willing to pay ransom

PETALING JAYA: The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports, the families are set to fly to Malaysia t More here: Family of abducted tourist willing to pay ransom

Malaysia blames Filipino group for tourist kidnapping

KUALA LUMPUR, November 16, 2013 (AFP) -- Malaysian police said on Saturday an Al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines was believed to be behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Malaysia blames Filipino group for tourist kidnapping

AirAsia offers assistance to Philippines typhoon victims with #toPHwithlove campaign

AirAsia today announced it will run a donation and relief campaign called ‘To Philippines with Love’ (#toPHwithlove) to benefit the communities affected by Super Typhoon Haiyan, which recently devastated the Philippines. More here: AirAsia offers assistance to Philippines typhoon victims with #toPHwithlove campaign

Sunday, November 17, 2013

PD vaccine could have saved baby Aqil: Mum

PETALING JAYA: The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports, the families are set to fly to Malaysia t More here: PD vaccine could have saved baby Aqil: Mum

RAs fear inflation spike with higher assessment rate

PETALING JAYA: The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports, the families are set to fly to Malaysia t More here: RAs fear inflation spike with higher assessment rate

Penang govt spent 35% of cost incurred by BN for oversea trips

PETALING JAYA: The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports, the families are set to fly to Malaysia t More here: Penang govt spent 35% of cost incurred by BN for oversea trips

RAs fear inflation spike with higher assessment rate

PETALING JAYA: The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports, the families are set to fly to Malaysia tomorrow morning, carrying with them more than US$10,000 (RM32,000). This follows information from the Malaysian police that Chang, 58, is likely to be alive. Chang is the wife of Taiwanese tourist Hsu Li-min ... More here: RAs fear inflation spike with higher assessment rate

Family of abducted tourist willing to pay ransom

PETALING JAYA: The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports, the families are set to fly to Malaysia tomorrow morning, carrying with them more than US$10,000 (RM32,000). This follows information from the Malaysian police that Chang, 58, is likely to be alive. Chang is the wife of Taiwanese tourist Hsu Li-min ... More here: Family of abducted tourist willing to pay ransom

New all-in fares for the best seats in the sky

It’s a known fact that Singapore Airlines, a five-star full service carrier, has one of the most impeccable air travel services in the world. However, Singapore Airlines General Manager for Philippines and Guam Ranjan Jha is determined to turn that fact into fiction. We are often coming up with very good, attractive, exceptional value offers because we want everybody in the Philippines to ... More here: New all-in fares for the best seats in the sky

Family of abducted tourist willing to pay ransom

PETALING JAYA (Nov 17): The family of abducted Taiwanese tourist Chang An-wei is willing to pay a ransom for her release. According to Taiwan media reports today, the victims’ families are set to fly to Malaysia on Tuesday morning, carrying more than US$10,000 (RM32,000) with them. This follows information from the Malaysian police that Chang, 58, is likely to be alive. Chang is the wife of ... More here: Family of abducted tourist willing to pay ransom

PHL receives support from international tourism bodies

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expresses its sincere appreciation to the outpouring of messages and support from partners in the international travel community such as the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for the Filipino people affected by the recent super typhoon Yolanda. More here: PHL receives support from international tourism bodies

Saturday, November 16, 2013

A Distant Desperation Hits Home: With Family, Friends in Philippines, Upper Valley Residents Worry, Wait for Word

While at her home in Windsor, Vt., Nida Tansey looks through albums of photos from her visits to see her family in the Philippines on Nov. 14, 2013. Tansey and her husband, who met in the Philippines, travel to see Tansey's family every few years. More here: A Distant Desperation Hits Home: With Family, Friends in Philippines, Upper Valley Residents Worry, Wait for Word

Philippines homeless from typhoon hits 1.9 million

The number of people made homeless in the Philippines by a devastating typhoon has risen to 1.9 million, the United Nations' humanitarian agency says. More here: Philippines homeless from typhoon hits 1.9 million

2 Iowa surgeons to travel to the Philippines to help in aftermath of typhoon

DISASTER RELIEF: Two Iowa surgeons are traveling to the Philippines to lend their surgical skills to those in need. Part of the reason I became a doctor was to do stuff like this and help people all over the world, not just in Iowa, says Dr. Kyle Ver Steeg. Ver Steeg and Dr. Alan Koslow are going to the Philippines with Team Rubicon, a disaster relief group. Video: Filipinos flee typhoon-ravaged ... More here: 2 Iowa surgeons to travel to the Philippines to help in aftermath of typhoon

Philippines homeless from typhoon hits 1.9 million

The number of people made homeless in the Philippines by a devastating typhoon rose to 1.9 million, up from 900,000, the United Nations' humanitarian agency said on Saturday as international aid continues to arrive and the number of dead is expected to go beyond 3,600 More here: Philippines homeless from typhoon hits 1.9 million

Malaysia blames Abu Sayyaf for tourist kidnapping

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian police said on Saturday an Al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines was believed to be behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Malaysia blames Abu Sayyaf for tourist kidnapping

Filipino group blamed for tourist killing

POLICE believe an al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines is behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Filipino group blamed for tourist killing

New all-in fares for the best seats in the sky

It’s a known fact that Singapore Airlines, a five-star full service carrier, has one of the most impeccable air travel services in the world. Another known fact is that this kind of service comes with a rather expensive price tag. However, Singapore Airlines General Manager for Philippines and Guam Ranjan Jha is determined to turn […] More here: New all-in fares for the best seats in the sky

Filipino group blamed for tourist killing

POLICE believe an al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines is behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Filipino group blamed for tourist killing

Malaysia blames terror group for tourist kidnapping

Malaysian police said on Saturday an Al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines was believed to be behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Malaysia blames terror group for tourist kidnapping

Malaysia blames Abu Sayyaf for tourist kidnapping

Malaysian police said on Saturday an Al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines was believed to be behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Malaysia blames Abu Sayyaf for tourist kidnapping

Filipino group blamed for killed tourist

Malaysian police believe a terror group from the Philippines is behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist. More here: Filipino group blamed for killed tourist

Semporna kidnap: Malaysia blames Filipino group for tourist kidnapping

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian police said on Saturday an Al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines was believed to be behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. Unidentified gunmen shot dead Li-Min Hsu, 57, and kidnapped his wife An-Wei Chang, 56, early Friday on Pom Pom Island, a popular scuba diving location in the eastern state of Sabah on Borneo island. The ... More here: Semporna kidnap: Malaysia blames Filipino group for tourist kidnapping

Malaysia blames Filipino group for tourist kidnapping

KUALA LUMPUR, November 16, 2013 (AFP) -- Malaysian police said on Saturday an Al-Qaeda linked terror group from the Philippines was believed to be behind the killing of a Taiwanese tourist and the kidnapping of his wife. More here: Malaysia blames Filipino group for tourist kidnapping

Members of Billings based chapel travel to Philippines to rebuild homes

BILLINGS - In the midst of preparing for travel to the Philippines to help an island recover from a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit mid-October, a group of volunteers from Faith Chapel in Billings arrived to a task much larger than they could imagine. More here: Members of Billings based chapel travel to Philippines to rebuild homes

Members of Billings based chapel travel to Philippines to rebuild homes

BILLINGS - In the midst of preparing for travel to the Philippines to help an island recover from a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit mid-October, a group of volunteers from Faith Chapel in Billings arrived to a task much larger than they could imagine. More here: Members of Billings based chapel travel to Philippines to rebuild homes

Travel Photo of the Day

Each day, CNN producers select a user-submitted photo to be our Travel Photo of the Day. Click through the gallery above to see stunning shots from around the world, and be sure to come back every day for a new image. Have a gorgeous travel photo of your own to share? Submit it for the gallery at CNN iReport! More here: Travel Photo of the Day

Friday, November 15, 2013

All out ops to locate missing Taiwanese

Malaysian police working with Philippines counterpart to locate kidnapped tourist and the IGP does not rule out involvement of locals More here: All out ops to locate missing Taiwanese

Travel industry all set for recovery program

International travel organizations have expressed readiness to support the Philippines in any tourism-related recovery program for areas ravaged by the recent calamity. More here: Travel industry all set for recovery program

INEFFECTIVE ESSCOM: Kidnapped tourist may already be in Philippines - cops

KOTA KINABALU - A Taiwanese tourist who was kidnapped by a group of armed men from an island resort off Semporna may have been taken… More here: INEFFECTIVE ESSCOM: Kidnapped tourist may already be in Philippines - cops

The Carlson Family Foundation Pledges Support for Typhoon Haiyan Relief and Carlson Employees in the Philippines

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESSWIRE)-- The Carlson Family Foundation, in partnership with global travel and hospitality company Carlson, announced a $20,000 pledge to Typhoon Haiyan relief groups to aid recovery in the devastated region and has asked Carlson colleagues worldwide to consider personal donations as well in support of its Philippines-based colleagues and hotels. “As in the case of other ... More here: The Carlson Family Foundation Pledges Support for Typhoon Haiyan Relief and Carlson Employees in the Philippines

Travel photos we wish we'd taken

See stunning shots from around the world, and be sure to come back every day for a new image. More here: Travel photos we wish we'd taken

2013 Tourist Map

Residents of Drumheller are showing support for the thousands in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Haiyan. The storm hit the island nation last Friday devastating communities and killing scores of people. More here: 2013 Tourist Map

Medical team prepares to travel to RP

Makeshift clinic: In this Wednesday photograph, survivors wait for treatment at a makeshift clinic at the airport in typhoon-ravaged Tacloban city, Leyte province, central Philippines. More here: Medical team prepares to travel to RP

Kidnapped tourist may be in the Philippines: Police

KOTA KINABALU: A Taiwanese tourist who was kidnapped by a group of armed men from an island resort off Semporna may have been taken to the Philippines. More here: Kidnapped tourist may be in the Philippines: Police

The Philippines' best hope: Checks from family

The Filipino economy is heavily dependent on money sent by family members living abroad, and those remittances will play an even bigger role now. More here: The Philippines' best hope: Checks from family

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Philippines buries some dead as US carrier arrives

Tacloban (Philippines) (AFP) - A huge US aircraft carrier arrived off the coast of the typhoon-hit Philippines Thursday, offering hope of a dramatic uptick in aid to destitute survivors as officials buried scores of rotting corpses. More here: Philippines buries some dead as US carrier arrives

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On one side, the Anika Island Resort faces a glittering stretch of azure sea. On the other three, it faces the remains of homes and coconut palms minced by wind into the white sand. The hotel is the only one of 32 to escape Typhoon Haiyan unscathed enough to stay running in Santa Fe, an idyllic tourist town on Bantayan island flattened by one... More here: philippines-hotel-reuters-111413.JPG

Philippines buries some dead as US military arrives in force

Scores of decaying bodies were laid in mass graves Thursday as destitute typhoon survivors were offered hope of help with the arrival in the Philippines of a huge US aircraft carrier. More here: Philippines buries some dead as US military arrives in force

Philippines buries some dead as US military arrives in force

Tacloban (Philippines) (AFP) - Scores of decaying bodies were laid in mass graves Thursday as destitute typhoon survivors were offered hope of help with the arrival in the Philippines of a huge US aircraft carrier. The USS George Washington, with 5,000 sailors aboard, headed a flotilla of vessels bearing badly needed equipment, supplies and expertise for the thousands left homeless hungry and ... More here: Philippines buries some dead as US military arrives in force

Navy's Mercy activated for Philippines

The Navy is activating the San Diego-based hospital ship Mercy to be ready if called to the Philippines. More here: Navy's Mercy activated for Philippines

On idyllic Philippine island, typhoon hints at tourism paradise lost

By Aubrey Belford SANTA FE, Philippines (Reuters) - On one side, the Anika Island Resort faces a glittering stretch of azure sea. The hotel is the only one of 32 to avoid demolition by Typhoon Haiyan in Santa Fe, an idyllic tourist town on Bantayan island flattened by one of the world's biggest storms. The destruction here reflects the damage to the tourism industry in many typhoon-hit parts of ... More here: On idyllic Philippine island, typhoon hints at tourism paradise lost

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Members of Billings based chapel travel to Philippines to rebuild homes

BILLINGS - In the midst of preparing for travel to the Philippines to help an island recover from a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit mid-October, a group of volunteers from Faith Chapel in Billings arrived to a task much larger than they could imagine. More here: Members of Billings based chapel travel to Philippines to rebuild homes

Ex-DBP exec’s travel bid opposed

State prosecutors opposed the travel request of a former official of the state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) who has been charged with graft in connection with the grant of the allegedly P660-million behest loans to businessman Roberto Ongpin’s company in 2009. More here: Ex-DBP exec’s travel bid opposed

Paradise Demolished Drains Vital Tourist Dollars: Southeast Asia

The Philippines, ravaged by the deadly Super Typhoon Haiyan and a 7.2-magnitude earthquake in the past month, needs to race to rebuild beach resorts and infrastructure to bring back much-needed tourism spending. More here: Paradise Demolished Drains Vital Tourist Dollars: Southeast Asia

Pilkington Philippines show shelved

The final edition of Karl Pilkington's Sky One programme The Moaning of Life, set in the Philippines, is shelved in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan. More here: Pilkington Philippines show shelved

Egencia Offers Corporate Travel Management in 62 Countries

BELLEVUE, Wash., Nov. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Egencia®, the business travel brand of Expedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: EXPE), today announced new corporate travel management services in seven countries helping the ... More here: Egencia Offers Corporate Travel Management in 62 Countries

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Key's visit to Philippines postponed

The Prime Minister's put plans to travel to the Philippines on hold. More here: Key's visit to Philippines postponed

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The Prime Minister's put plans to travel to the Philippines on hold. Key's visit to Philippines postponed John Key, Philippines More here: irn-phillpines-postpon

East Texans head to the Philippines to help with disaster relief

There are countless numbers of people in need of help in the Philippines. However, by the end of the week, East Texans will be overseas to help. More here: East Texans head to the Philippines to help with disaster relief

Company to promote tourism from RP

The Guam Visitors Bureau has contracted Makati-based Alouatta Group to promote Philippine travel to Guam for fiscal year 2014. More here: Company to promote tourism from RP

Company to promote tourism from RP

The Guam Visitors Bureau has contracted Makati-based Alouatta Group to promote Philippine travel to Guam for fiscal year 2014. More here: Company to promote tourism from RP

HK cites Yolanda in renewing black travel alert vs PHL

Hong Kong on Tuesday renewed its black travel warning discouraging travel to the Philippines, this time citing the dangers from Super Typhoon Yolanda. More here: HK cites Yolanda in renewing black travel alert vs PHL

16 countries issue travel advice against Thailand

Sixteen countries have issued advice against travelling to Thailand following the widespread anti-government protests, according to the Tourism Authority of ... More here: 16 countries issue travel advice against Thailand

German boosts aid to Philippines to 1 million euros

The money was to go to German organisations helping the injured and homeless after Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest on record, swept through the Philippines at the weekend, Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle told reporters after meeting in Delhi with Evan Garcia, undersecretary for policy with the Philippine Foreign Ministry. Berlin had announced 500,000 euros of aid at the weekend. The ... More here: German boosts aid to Philippines to 1 million euros

Monday, November 11, 2013

UK sends ship to help Philippines

The UK will send a Royal Navy warship to help deal with the storm disaster in the Philippines, Prime Minister David Cameron has announced. More here: UK sends ship to help Philippines

Typhoon survivors in Philippines plead for aid

Typhoon-ravaged Philippine islands faced an unimaginably huge relief effort that had barely begun Monday, as bloated bodies lay uncollected and uncounted in the streets and survivors pleaded for food, water and medicine. More here: Typhoon survivors in Philippines plead for aid

Typhoon Haiyan: airports reopen in the Philippines as rescue operations continue

International flights to the Philippines have resumed but the country remains in chaos, with tourists and visitors among the millions affected by the devastation A plane landing in Manila as the Philippines' main international airportreopens. Photograph: Francis R Malasig/EPA International travel to the Philippines is resuming after one of the most powerful storms on record swept across the ... More here: Typhoon Haiyan: airports reopen in the Philippines as rescue operations continue

AP PHOTOS: Typhoon devastates Philippines

A weakened Typhoon Haiyan made landfall in northern Vietnam early Monday and was downgraded to a tropical storm as it entered southern China later in the day, but the damage and death tolls appear nothing like the havoc the storm wreaked upon the Philippines on Friday.Despite an official death toll ... More here: AP PHOTOS: Typhoon devastates Philippines

Philippines victims plead for aid

Survivors of Typhoon Haiyan are still waiting for help three days after the powerful storm struck killing tens of thousands of people. More here: Philippines victims plead for aid

Tropical storm Haiyan makes landfall in northern Vietnam

Haiyan made landfall in northern Vietnam on Monday as a tropical storm, just days after leaving massive destruction in the Philippines as the season's strongest typhoon. More here: Tropical storm Haiyan makes landfall in northern Vietnam

Typhoon Haiyan: Miracle Baby Bea Joy Born In The Wreckage Of Central Philippines (PICTURES)

A young mother cried with joy after giving birth in the wreckage of the devastating Philippines storm that has killed at least 10,000 people. The baby was named Bea Joy, after her grandmother Beatriz, who was missing after typhoon Haiyan struck. Her mother, 21-year-old Emily Ortega, gave birth at an improvised clinic at Tacloban airport, AFP reported. "She is so beautiful", said the new mother ... More here: Typhoon Haiyan: Miracle Baby Bea Joy Born In The Wreckage Of Central Philippines (PICTURES)

Advisory to PH passport holders with travel plans to HK

MANILA, Philippines – All Philippine passport holders who have travel plans to Hong Kong should monitor the news regularly in view of proposals to suspend the 14-day visa free entry of Philippine passport holders. As of this writing, the visa free entry to Hong Kong for Philippine passport holders is still valid . Travelers are advised to check the following websites: Hongkong Immigration ... More here: Advisory to PH passport holders with travel plans to HK

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Philippines devastation is 'bedlam'

The head of the Red Cross in the Philippines has described the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan as "absolute bedlam". More here: Philippines devastation is 'bedlam'

Territory emergency staff to aid Typhoon effort

A team of Northern Territory medical and emergency workers trained in disaster relief are preparing to travel to Tacloban City in the Philippines with a portable hospital and supplies following typhoon Haiyan. The 36 workers - who are part of the Darwin-based National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre - will leave Darwin within 24 hours. The Centre's head, Dr Len Notaras, said the team ... More here: Territory emergency staff to aid Typhoon effort

Typhoon survivors in Philippines struggle for aid

TACLOBAN, Philippines - Rescuers faced blocked roads and damaged airports on Monday as they raced to deliver desperately needed tents, food and medicines to the typhoon-devastated eastern Philippines where thousands are believed dead. More here: Typhoon survivors in Philippines struggle for aid

Typhoon survivors in Philippines struggle for aid

TACLOBAN, PHILIPPINES - NOVEMBER 10: Two young boys look at the devastation in the aftermath of typhoon Haiyan on November 10, 2013 in Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines. More here: Typhoon survivors in Philippines struggle for aid

Philippines battle to move storm aid

Officials struggle to bring aid to areas of the Philippines worst affected by Typhoon Haiyan, with up to 10,000 people feared dead in Tacloban city. More here: Philippines battle to move storm aid

Philippines typhoon deaths climb into thousands

Photos: Typhoon Haiyan leaves path of destruction As many as 10,000 people are believed dead in one Philippine city alone after one of the worst storms ever recorded unleashed ferocious winds and giant waves that washed away homes and schools. Corpses hung from tree branches and were scattered along sidewalks and among flattened buildings, while looters raided grocery stores and gas stations in ... More here: Philippines typhoon deaths climb into thousands

Philippines Buffeted by Regular Storms

While Typhoon Haiyan appears to be the deadliest natural disaster on record to hit the Philippines, the country is no stranger to major storms. Doomed by geography and hobbled by poverty, the Philippines has long tried to minimize the damage caused by the 20 or so typhoons that hit the sprawling archipelago every year. But despite a combination of preparation and mitigation measures, high death ... More here: Philippines Buffeted by Regular Storms

Devastation and death in Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan

As many as 10,000 people are believed dead in one Philippine city alone after one of the worst storms ever recorded unleashed ferocious winds and giant waves that washed away homes and schools. More here: Devastation and death in Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan

Lawmakers to Aquino: Declare Philippines under state of calamity

Typhoon Haiyan, the strongest typhoon in the world this year and possibly the most powerful ever to hit land battered the central Philippines on Friday, forcing millions of people to flee to safer ground, cutting power lines and blowing apart houses. Haiyan, a category-5 super typhoon, bore down on the northern tip of Cebu Province, a popular tourist destination with the country's second-largest ... More here: Lawmakers to Aquino: Declare Philippines under state of calamity

Super Typhoon Haiyan: UK Commits £6m In Aid And Sends Out Experts To The Philippines

Britain has committed almost £6 million of emergency help and sent additional experts to the Philippines to help with the aftermath of one of the most powerful storms on record. The Red Cross believes that 1,200 people may have lost their lives in the trail of devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan when it slammed into six islands at speeds of up to 170mph (274kph). The body count from the havoc ... More here: Super Typhoon Haiyan: UK Commits £6m In Aid And Sends Out Experts To The Philippines

Mass Devastation, 10,000 Feared Dead in the Philippines

Officials say the typhoon that ravaged the country has likely left tens of thousands dead in one city alone More here: Mass Devastation, 10,000 Feared Dead in the Philippines

Philippines destruction ‘a great human tragedy’ as more than 10,000 feared killed

TACLOBAN, PHILIPPINES—As many as 10,000 people are believed dead in one Philippine city alone after one of the worst storms ever recorded unleashed ferocious winds and giant waves that washed away homes and schools. Corpses hung from tree branches and were scattered along sidewalks and among flattened buildings, while looters raided grocery stores and gas stations in search of food, fuel and ... More here: Philippines destruction ‘a great human tragedy’ as more than 10,000 feared killed

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Typhoon slams Philippines; high death toll feared

The central Philippine city of Tacloban was in ruins Saturday, a day after being ravaged by one of the strongest typhoons on record, as horrified residents spoke of storm surges as high as trees and authorities said they were expecting a "very high number of fatalities." More here: Typhoon slams Philippines; high death toll feared

More than 10,000 feared dead in typhoon-ravaged Philippines

Tacloban (Philippines) (AFP) - A super typhoon that destroyed entire towns across the Philippines is believed to have killed more than 10,000 people, authorities said Sunday, which would make it the country's deadliest recorded natural disaster. The horrifying new feared death toll from Super Typhoon Haiyan came as the United States pledged military help in the relief effort and as countless ... More here: More than 10,000 feared dead in typhoon-ravaged Philippines

Conde Nast Traveler cites hangri-La Mactan and Boracay among Top 20

Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu, and Boracay Resort & Spa, Philippines have been recognized by the Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. More here: Conde Nast Traveler cites hangri-La Mactan and Boracay among Top 20

Typhoon slams Philippines; high death toll feared

TACLOBAN, Philippines (AP) — The central Philippine city of Tacloban was in ruins Saturday, a day after being ravaged by one of the strongest typhoons on record, as horrified residents spoke of storm surges as high as trees and authorities said they were expecting a "very high number of fatalities." More here: Typhoon slams Philippines; high death toll feared

Philippines typhoon: Red Cross fears up to 1,000 dead

The Philippines is bracing for recovery after a huge typhoon struck, killing at least 1,000, the Philippine Red Cross said. More here: Philippines typhoon: Red Cross fears up to 1,000 dead

New Tourist Police Commander joins Phuket boat safety blitz

PHUKET: The new commander of the Tourist Police, Maj Gen Apichai Theamart, yesterday led a team of officers on a safety inspection of boats operating at Rassada Pier, on the east side of Phuket Town.The inspection, aimed at ensuring Phuket ... More here: New Tourist Police Commander joins Phuket boat safety blitz

Friday, November 8, 2013

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Typhoon Haiyan, possibly the strongest storm ever to hit land, has devastated the central Philippine city of Tacloban, killing at least 100 people and destroying most houses in a surge of flood water and high winds, officials said on Saturday. The toll of death and damage is expected to rise sharply as rescue workers and soldiers reach areas... More here: philippines-typhoon-AFP-081113.jpg

Fashion, shape in black and white

MANILA, Philippines - Evening wear shouldn’t be limited to little black dresses. Clean lines, texture, layers, prints, patterns and movement are factors to consider when putting together a night-out ensemble. This fashion editorial is photographed by Paco Guerrero, host of travel show "What I See" on Solar News Channel and an ... More here: Fashion, shape in black and white

Typhoon Haiyan flattens houses, triggers floods in Philippines; at least four dead

Typhoon Haiyan, possibly the strongest storm ever to hit land, was barrelling out of the Philippines on Saturday after it flattened houses, triggered landslides and floods and knocked out power and communications across a number of islands. In the central Philippines, nearly all houses in Tacloban in Leyte province with a population of about 220,000, were toppled and casualties were feared to be ... More here: Typhoon Haiyan flattens houses, triggers floods in Philippines; at least four dead

Typhoon Haiyan flattens houses, triggers floods in Philippines; at least four dead

By Rosemarie Francisco MANILA (Reuters) - Typhoon Haiyan, possibly the strongest storm ever to hit land, was barreling out of the Philippines on Saturday after it flattened houses, triggered landslides and floods and knocked out power and communications across a number of islands. In the central Philippines, nearly all houses in Tacloban in Leyte province with a population of about 220,000, were ... More here: Typhoon Haiyan flattens houses, triggers floods in Philippines; at least four dead

Typhoon flattens houses, triggers floods in Philippines

At least four people are dead after one of the strongest storms on record slammed into the Philippines. More here: Typhoon flattens houses, triggers floods in Philippines

Economic Strength Should Help the Philippines Recover

Growth that's in the same league as China's will likely help the Philippines deal with Typhoon Haiyan's economic impact More here: Economic Strength Should Help the Philippines Recover

Philippines Typhoon Haiyan kills at least four

Gabrielle Levy (UPI) -- Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest storms in recorded history, lashed the central Philippines Friday, killing at least four people as it pushed across the archipelago nation. More here: Philippines Typhoon Haiyan kills at least four

Economic Strength Should Help the Philippines Recover

Growth that's in the same league as China's will likely help the Philippines deal with Typhoon Haiyan's economic impact More here: Economic Strength Should Help the Philippines Recover

Practical Packer: Your one-stop travel shop

Whether you’re going camping, hitting the beach, or exploring an Asian city for the first time, the Practical Packer has got you covered. “With budget airline travel fares, more people are traveling than ever before,” shares avid traveler and former TV personality (of Tabing Ilog fame) Paula Peralejo-Fernandez, the brains behind the online store Practical Packer. “The Practical Packer offers ... More here: Practical Packer: Your one-stop travel shop

One of world's strongest storms blasts Philippines

MANILA, Philippines (AP) -- One of the strongest storms on record slammed into the central Philippines on Friday, killing at least four people, forcing hundreds of thousands from their homes and knocking out power and communications in several provinces. But the nation appeared to avoid a major disaster because the rapidly moving typhoon blew away before wreaking more damage, officials said ... More here: One of world's strongest storms blasts Philippines

Hong Kong Calls for Philippines Travel Ban

A diplomatic controversy between the Philippines and Hong Kong is growing, after Hong Kong lawmakers approved a measure late Thursday night that would place visa restrictions on Philippine citizens. Hong Kong wants an official apology from Manila over a botched hostage rescue attempt three years ago that left eight Hong Kong nationals dead and wounded seven others. To press Manila for ... More here: Hong Kong Calls for Philippines Travel Ban

Super typhoon lashes Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan -- one of the strongest storms recorded on the planet -- smashed into island after island as it plowed across the central Philippines on Friday, threatening millions of people. More here: Super typhoon lashes Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan Plows Across Philippines

(CNN) -- Super Typhoon Haiyan -- one of the strongest storms recorded on the planet -- smashed into island after island as it plowed across the central Philippines on Friday, threatening millions of people. It left devastation in its wake, flooding streets and knocking out power and communication networks in many areas. Three people were reported dead, more than 100,000 took refuge in evacuation ... More here: Super Typhoon Haiyan Plows Across Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan grounds hundreds of flights

Hundreds of flights have been grounded in the Philippines, where Super Typhoon Haiyan made landfall Friday morning. More here: Super Typhoon Haiyan grounds hundreds of flights

Massive typhoon pummeling Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan -- one of the strongest storms recorded on the planet -- smashed into island after island as it plowed across the central Philippines on Friday, threatening millions of people. More here: Massive typhoon pummeling Philippines

Massive typhoon pummeling Philippines

PHILIPPINES — Super Typhoon Haiyan — one of the strongest storms recorded on the planet — smashed into island after... More here: Massive typhoon pummeling Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of strongest storms ever, plows across Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan -- one of the strongest storms recorded on the planet -- smashed into island after island as it plowed across the central Philippines on Friday, threatening millions of people. More here: Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of strongest storms ever, plows across Philippines

Super Typhoon Haiyan, Philippines, grounds hundreds of flights

Hundreds of flights have been grounded in the Philippines, where Super Typhoon Haiyan made landfall Friday morning. More here: Super Typhoon Haiyan, Philippines, grounds hundreds of flights

Super typhoon Haiyan slams into central Philippines, millions flee

* Haiyan potentially strongest typhoon ever to make landfall * Millions flee to safer ground or take refuge in shelters (Adds storm hitting Cebu, deaths, details of impact) MANILA, Nov 8 (Reuters) - The strongest typhoon in the world this year and possibly the most powerful ever to hit land battered the central Philippines on Friday, forcing millions of people to flee to safer ground, cutting ... More here: Super typhoon Haiyan slams into central Philippines, millions flee

HK urged Philippines to respond to Manila hostage victims' requests-Eastday

HONG KONG, Nov. 8 -- Secretary for Security of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government TK Lai urged the Philippinesto respond to the Manila hostage tragedy victims' and bereaved families' four requests within the time the Hong Kong government specified, to resolve the incident, media reported Friday. More here: HK urged Philippines to respond to Manila hostage victims' requests-Eastday

Massive typhoon slams into Philippines

AT LEAST 4 KILLED as the year's most powerful typhoon bears down on the Philippines, knocking out power in several provinces, setting off landslides, and cutting communications in the country's central region. EXTREME WEATHER CENTER More here: Massive typhoon slams into Philippines

Deadly Typhoon Haiyan / Yolanda lashes Philippines

The world's strongest storm of the year is making its way across the central Philippines, causing widespread damage and forcing millions of people to flee to safer ground. More here: Deadly Typhoon Haiyan / Yolanda lashes Philippines

Strongest typhoon of the year hits Philippines

The world's strongest typhoon of the year has slammed into the Philippines. More here: Strongest typhoon of the year hits Philippines

In Virginia, relief concerts planned in the wake of powerful typhoon in Philippines

Benefit concerts are already scheduled for Friday in Alexandria and for Saturday in Virginia Beach. More here: In Virginia, relief concerts planned in the wake of powerful typhoon in Philippines

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Super typhoon Haiyan slams into central Philippines, millions flee

By Manuel Mogato and Rosemarie Francisco MANILA (Reuters) - The strongest typhoon in the world this year and possibly the most powerful ever to hit land battered the central Philippines on Friday, forcing millions of people to flee to safer ground, cutting power lines and blowing apart houses. Haiyan, a category-5 super typhoon, bore down on the northern tip of Cebu Province, a popular tourist ... More here: Super typhoon Haiyan slams into central Philippines, millions flee

Philippines slammed by Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest ever recorded

(CNN) — With 25 million people in its path, one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever observed, Super Typhoon Haiyan, made landfall Friday morning in the Philippines, the country’s weather service reported. At least three people, including a 1-year-old, were … More here: Philippines slammed by Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest ever recorded

A Guide to Travel Insurance in Malaysia – Types of Policies

By Balkish Rosly SaveMoney.my began our guide to travel insurance last week by explaining exactly what it is and what it entails. This week, we continue with an explanation of the types of travel insurance policies. Read on to learn … Continue reading More here: A Guide to Travel Insurance in Malaysia – Types of Policies

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One of the most intense typhoons ever recorded tore into the Philippines today, triggering flash floods and ripping down buildings as millions of people huddled indoors. Super Typhoon Haiyan smashed into the central island of Samar, about 600 kilometres southeast of Manila, at 4:40am (2040 GMT Thursday) and was travelling quickly northwest,... More here: philippines-typhoon-AFP-081113.jpg

One of most intense typhoons ever recorded hits Philippines

One of the most intense typhoons ever recorded tore into the Philippines on Friday, triggering flash floods and ripping down buildings as millions of people huddled indoors. Super Typhoon Haiyan smashed into the central island of Samar, about 600 kilometres southeast of Manila, at 4:40am (2040 GMT Thursday) and was travelling quickly northwest, state meteorologist Romeo Cajulis told AFP ... More here: One of most intense typhoons ever recorded hits Philippines

Philippines typhoon makes landfall with 195 m.p.h. winds

Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever observed, made landfall Friday morning in the Philippines, the country's weather service reported. More here: Philippines typhoon makes landfall with 195 m.p.h. winds

Philippines prepares for 'super typhoon'

Packing sustained winds of 174 mph and gusts as strong as 208 mph, Super Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Yolanda, is churning across the Western Pacific toward the central Philippines. More here: Philippines prepares for 'super typhoon'

Philippines braces for one of the most powerful typhoons on record

Story by JIM GOMEZ / AP Posted by Scott T. Smith / CBS12 News MANILA, Philippines -- The strongest typhoon in the world this year bore down on the Philippines, sending thousands fleeing villages Thursday. The U.S. Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Hawaii said Typhoon Haiyan's maximum sustained winds were 314 kilometers per hour (195 mph), with gusts up to 379 kilometers per hour (235 mph ... More here: Philippines braces for one of the most powerful typhoons on record

AirAsia Zest and Philippines AirAsia cancelled flights due to Typhoon Yolanda

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT FROM PHILIPPINES’ AIRASIA AND AIRASIA ZEST as of 6PM, 7 November 2013 Air Asia Zest Travel Advisory FLIGHT ADVISORY: Because passengers safety is Air Asia’s most important concern, please be advised that the following Philippines’ AirAsia and AirAsia Zest flights will be cancelled tomorrow, Friday, 8 November 2013, due to the impending effects […] (Visited 1 times, 1 visits ... More here: AirAsia Zest and Philippines AirAsia cancelled flights due to Typhoon Yolanda

Super Typhoon Haiyan, strongest storm of the year, heads for central Philippines

Thousands of people in vulnerable areas of the Philippines are being relocated as the strongest storm on the planet so far this year spins toward the country. More here: Super Typhoon Haiyan, strongest storm of the year, heads for central Philippines

World’s strongest typhoon swirls towards Philippines

MANILA - The world's most powerful typhoon of the year gained strength on Thursday as it swirled towards the Philippines, forcing mass evacuations, flight cancellations and school suspensions across the disaster-weary nation. President Benigno Aquino called on his countrymen to make all possible preparations for Typhoon Haiyan, which was generating wind gusts exceeding 330 kilometres (200 miles ... More here: World’s strongest typhoon swirls towards Philippines

Super typhoon heads for Philippines

Thousands of people in vulnerable areas of the Philippines are being relocated as the strongest storm on the planet so far this year spins toward the country. More here: Super typhoon heads for Philippines

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

DOT confident tourist arrivals will top 5-million mark this year

London — The Department of Tourism is confident that the Philippines will exceed the five-million tourists arrival mark this year, lower than the government’s earlier target of 5.5 million. On the sidelines of Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) Manila to London inaugural flight reception here, Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez Jr. said that the projected slower tourist […] More here: DOT confident tourist arrivals will top 5-million mark this year

PH hoping to attract more European visitors

LONDON – The Philippines came in full force with more than 40 exhibitors during the World Travel Market, the biggest annual travel event in London. More here: PH hoping to attract more European visitors

Foreign carriers mount flights to PHL's secondary airports

MORE foreign carriers are mounting flights to secondary destinations in the Philippines, as the country gears up to strengthen air links with its key growth markets in a bid to achieve 10 million international tourist arrivals by 2016.?? More here: Foreign carriers mount flights to PHL's secondary airports

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Information: Visa facilitation in Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is coming up with a plan on visa and travel facilitation to create 2.6 million jobs and generate $89 billion from an expected 57 million visitors to APEC destinations by 2016. This is envisioned in the study “The Impact of Visa Facilitation in APEC Economies,” by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and World Travel and Tourism ... More here: Information: Visa facilitation in Asia Pacific

Travel Guide: Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Many people travel through Vigan on their way to and from destinations on Ilocos Sur. It’s common for other people to skip a night in this small city because they have other plans. But don’t skip Vigan. It’s an old city with soul and you can spend a few days enjoying its charms if you’re […] (Visited 1 times, 1 visits today) The post Travel Guide: Vigan, Ilocos Sur appeared first on Out of Town ... More here: Travel Guide: Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Death toll in Philippine quake rises to 110

CEBU (Philippines): The death toll from a 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the central Philippine island of Bohol reached 110 Wednesday with only three people pulled alive from rubble. More here: Death toll in Philippine quake rises to 110

Hong Kong threatens sanctions against Philippines in hostage row

HONG KONG - Hong Kong's leader threatened sanctions against the Philippines on Tuesday over a row involving the deaths of its tourists in a 2010 hostage crisis in Manila. The southern Chinese city is demanding a formal apology for the incident, which saw eight of its citizens killed and seven others wounded after negotiations broke down between Philippine authorities and a former police officer ... More here: Hong Kong threatens sanctions against Philippines in hostage row

Philippines checking on reports of abuse in Saudi crackdown

The Philippines said Tuesday it had deployed teams to check on reports of abuse in Saudi Arabia's crackdown on illegal workers, after one woman complained they were treated "like animals". Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said Filipino diplomats were in touch with the oil-rich kingdom's human rights council to ensure the protection of Filipino workers there. "We have sent rapid response ... More here: Philippines checking on reports of abuse in Saudi crackdown

Cebu Pacific Air Offers CNY 1 Seats to Philippines

BEIJING, Nov. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Philippines’ largest airline, Cebu Pacific Air (PSE:CEB) is holding a CNY 1 (HKD 1) seat sale between China or Hong Kong and the Philippines from November 5 to ... More here: Cebu Pacific Air Offers CNY 1 Seats to Philippines

Hong Kong gives Philippines sanctions warning

Substantial progress demanded within a month in talks on apology and compensation for 2010 hostage tragedy. More here: Hong Kong gives Philippines sanctions warning

Monday, November 4, 2013

Editorial: Milestone for Philippine tourism industry

Tourist arrivals in the Philippines reached 3.18 million in first eight months of 2013, 11.8% over the 2.85 million in the same period in 2012. This is the first time in Philippine tourism history that foreign arrivals breached the three-million mark at the end of August. The figure is 57.83% of the 5.5-million target for this year.South Koreans comprised the bulk of the visitors, 822,128 ... More here: Editorial: Milestone for Philippine tourism industry

Feds reinstate tourist visa of CW applicants

The U.S. State Department has reinstated at least two valid B1/B2 visas it cancelled in September and October when these Commonwealth-only worker permit holders were granted CW visas at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines. More here: Feds reinstate tourist visa of CW applicants

New Web Site, ThePhilippines.com, Aims To Help Boost Tourism in the Philippines

Web site helps country to reach goal of more than 10 million annual tourists by the year 2015. (PRWeb November 04, 2013) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/11/prweb11297391.htm More here: New Web Site, ThePhilippines.com, Aims To Help Boost Tourism in the Philippines

New Web Site, ThePhilippines.com, Aims To Help Boost Tourism in the Philippines

Web site helps country to reach goal of more than 10 million annual tourists by the year 2015. (PRWeb November 04, 2013) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/11/prweb11297391.htm More here: New Web Site, ThePhilippines.com, Aims To Help Boost Tourism in the Philippines

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Feds reinstate tourist visa of CW applicants

The U.S. State Department has reinstated at least two valid B1/B2 visas it cancelled in September and October when these Commonwealth-only worker permit holders were granted CW visas at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines. More here: Feds reinstate tourist visa of CW applicants

Expo to put NorthPhil in ASEAN’s tourism loop

While strategically located at the center of the archipelagic Southeast Asia, the Philippines is practically out of the region’s tourism loop, which runs half a ring along the northwestern and southeastern fronts – from Thailand and Vietnam to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. The loop makes land-based travel among those countries possible, even by rail, leaving the Philippines at the center ... More here: Expo to put NorthPhil in ASEAN’s tourism loop

Palawan among 10 ‘Best value travel destinations’

Manila, Philippines - Lonely Planet, the largest travel guide book publisher in the world, has picked Palawan as among the 10 “best value travel destinations” for 2014. “Palawan’s no secret, but it certainly rewards those who visit,” wrote Hall. “This mix, combined with standout attractions such as Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and the Bacuit Archipelago (all available at a ... More here: Palawan among 10 ‘Best value travel destinations’

Family of Pinoy killed in Tiananmen incident now home

MANILA, Philippines – The family of the Filipino tourist killed in an incident at Beijing's historic Tiananmen Square is back home. Nelson Bunyi and his daughters, Francisca Isabela and Michaela, arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on a private flight from Shanghai, China on Saturday evening. However, the body of ... More here: Family of Pinoy killed in Tiananmen incident now home

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Tourism: Optimistic Manila, pessimistic industry

Manila hopes tourism will create seven million jobs and contribute 12% of economic output but industry experts are skeptical. More here: Tourism: Optimistic Manila, pessimistic industry

Palawan among 10 ‘Best value travel destinations’

Manila, Philippines – Lonely Planet, the largest travel guide book publisher in the world, has picked Palawan as among the 10 “best value travel destinations” for 2014. Lonely Planet writer Tom Hall raved about Palawan’s jungle rivers, limestone cliffs, and awesome beaches in his review. “Palawan’s no secret, but it certainly rewards those who visit,” […] More here: Palawan among 10 ‘Best value travel destinations’

Palawan: One of Lonely Planet’s 2014 Best Value Travel Destinations

Palawan is a large chain of islands to the west of the Philippines and it has recently been selected by Lonely Planet as on the of the best value travel destinations for 2014. This is great news for Palawan and it’s a well-deserved designation. Lonely Planet’s 2014 Best Value Travel Destinations Palawan has the best […] (Visited 1 times, 1 visits today) The post Palawan: One of Lonely Planet’s ... More here: Palawan: One of Lonely Planet’s 2014 Best Value Travel Destinations

Travelers look to lock and load gear easily

Provide the market what it needs—not just what it wants—and the odds of success will forever be in a prospective entrepreneur’s favor. More here: Travelers look to lock and load gear easily

Friday, November 1, 2013

Foreign carriers mount flights to country’s secondary airports

More foreign carriers are mounting flights to secondary destinations in the Philippines, as the country gears up to strengthen air links with its key growth markets in a bid to achieve 10 million international tourist arrivals by 2016. Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) chief operating officer Domingo Ramon Enerio III said that the Emirates Airlines launched its flights at Clark airport starting ... More here: Foreign carriers mount flights to country’s secondary airports