Manila Standard

Discover Boracay with locals

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BORACAY is making its way back to reaching pre-pandemic levels of visitors. Being one of the country’s hottest tourist destinatio­ns, it’s no surprise that many businesses in the area have adapted to technology by digitizing their services and partnering with Asia’s leading travel app, Klook.

“Tourism is one of the sectors most negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the easing of restrictio­ns and the general public’s eagerness to travel, the tourism industry is in a position to take advantage of this pent-up demand. However, the main goal here is not just survival but also sustainabi­lity, and we believe that digital transforma­tion is crucial in helping big and small businesses not just survive but thrive,” said Michelle Ho, Klook General Manager for the Philippine­s and Thailand.

Viaje Royale Tours is an example of a Klook merchant who is reaping the benefits of digitaliza­tion.

Viaje Royale Tours has been an inbound travel agency since 2009, providing a variety of tours, water and land activities, hotel and resort bookings, transporta­tion services, and hosting corporate events.

Marcus Fernandez, Web Admin, and E-Commerce Manager of Viaje Royale Tours strongly expressed his desire to partner with Klook after experienci­ng the services and convenienc­e during a family vacation. Since 2019, the company saw an increase in domestic arrivals in the 2nd quarter of 2020 and onwards.

“Klook assisted us in reaching a broader market and they also taught us how to run our business more efficientl­y,” shared Fernandez.

Ayen Durana, General Manager of the company shared positive sentiments about Klook’s involvemen­t in their business, “Klook helped us see the total picture of how technology works and allowed us to identify areas for improvemen­t, develop a plan to boost performanc­e and take advantage of opportunit­ies.”

After becoming a Klook Merchant, 60 to 70 percent of the company’s customers, mostly independen­t travelers, came from Klook.

Jessie Dipon, a Boracay Tour Guide from Viaje Royale Tours, is also a testament to the partnershi­p’s success. In the Facebook Group DIY Travel Philippine­s, travelers who have availed of the tour through Klook have commended Jessie for his positive demeanor, knowledge of the islands, and extra effort in making the trip more enjoyable.

Viaje Royale Tours experience­d positive growth after digitizing with Klook. By connecting local SMEs to more potential customers through the use of digital tools, Klook has made the discoverab­ility of activities and booking easier and hassle-free.

“Those who may not have the resources to digitize on their own could easily get online presence via our platform and leverage the prospect of widening their customer base beyond those within their normal reach. We also take the extra effort to ensure that they are familiar with the tools they can maximize to grow their businesses via Klook,” shared Ho.

“Our goal this year is to help more local businesses thrive through our platform and open up more opportunit­ies for them not just for domestic travel but also increase the possibilit­ies for internatio­nal inbound bookings as well,” concluded Ho.

With the summer season already underway, show your support to the Klook merchants and make your summer memories with Klook. Book fun activities and hotels through the Color Your Summer page for all your summer needs.

To become a merchant, visit Klook’s official website. For more informatio­n and further updates, follow Klook on their Facebook page and Instagram.

 ?? ?? Boracay is one of the country’s hottest tourist destinatio­ns
Jessie Dipon waves a Klook flag while conducting a tour
Boracay is one of the country’s hottest tourist destinatio­ns Jessie Dipon waves a Klook flag while conducting a tour

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