NMI still holds promise as a tourist destination

With its magic as an exotic island in the Pacific, tour operators from the Philippines said there is no doubt that the CNMI will continue to attract a huge number of tourists from Asia but the lack of direct flights remain the biggest stumbling block in marketing the destination.

According to Bing A. Miranda, senior manager of Baron Travel Corp., availability of the infrastructure and accessibility of the destination plays a major role in surviving the stiff competition in international travel.

“It has the same problem with the various islands in the Philippines which we find difficulty in selling because there’s not just enough flights from Manila to these far flung areas,” she said.

Ms. Miranda noted that a regular group of Filipinos come here because of its attraction as a diving destination. This can even be complemented with a day tour of Saipan, Tinian or Rota where visitors can have a glimpse of the local culture.

The CNMI should also inform tour operators that there is no need to get a U.S. visa in coming to the Commonwealth which makes the island more accessible although it is part of the United States.

“No doubt, this is a good place for honeymooners who want a quiet and peaceful place. For a three-day trip, you can rest and do a little bit of sightseeing,” said Ma. Cecilia L. Oblea, general manager of Teekay Travel Inc.

Some 10 tour operators from the Philippines recently arrived here as part of the familiarization trip sponsored by Continental Micronesia and the Marianas Visitors Authority.

Most of the tour operators said the inclusion of Tinian will provide a different experience to visitors who will get the chance to enjoy Tinian Dynasty Hotel & Casino.

“But they should have additional attractions in Tinian, more activities for tourists who just do not want to stay in the beach or in the hotel,” said Chi Vital Lansang, finance manager of Budget Travel & Tours Inc.

While the CNMI is trying to convince Continental to have more direct flights to Saipan from various destinations in Asia, MVA board Chair Dave M. Sablan informed the visiting tour operators that the government is also hoping to get new airlines service the CNMI.

Continental Airlines has cut back its direct service to Saipan from various destinations in Asia due to the slowdown in the island’s tourism economy. Such decision has hurt the CNMI government, claiming it contributed greatly to the reduction in tourist arrivals as visitors do not want to stay in Guam for almost one hour just to wait for a connecting flight to Saipan.