The Philippine Travel Agencies Association's (PTAA) 30th Travel Tour
Expo (TTE), which took place at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on
3-5 February 2023, clearly marked a milestone in the travel industry's
recovery from the pandemic.
The annual event attracted nearly 100,000 visitors and showcased the
offerings of over 300 exhibitors, spanning travel agencies, airlines,
cruise lines, embassies, merchandisers and other travel and tourism
businesses, revealed TTE chair Michelle Taylan, who was also the
immediate past president of PTAA.
TTE 2023 not only provided an economic boost to the industry, but
also served as a source of inspiration and motivation for people to
travel again, she added, as visitors could avail as much as 70% discount
on airlines, hotels, and travel package deals during the three-day
fair.
Taylan expressed her gratitude for the industry's efforts in
overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic. "It went beyond our
expectations," she said. "And it reminded me of our unfortunate events
we had two years ago, where we used to struggle to survive both in
health and financially where tourism were at the brink of losing.
"But
here we are now reaping all the fruits of our struggles and sacrifices.
We are very thankful and very proud of what we have accomplished. We
managed to pull together and stand as one through ups and downs."
The next TTE will be held in February 2024.