SIQUIJOR Island - Exploring the Enchanting

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Hello Everyone,

Welcome to Finding Utopia, your go-to newsletter for discovering how to travel the Philippines and beyond.

Here is what we have for you today.

• SIQUIJOR Island - Exploring the Enchanting

• Luxury Resort Pick of the Week: Three Camel Lodge Mongolia

• The Pulse: Philippines Shines at 2024 World Travel Awards – 8 Major Wins

• The Pulse: PHITEX 2024: Showcasing Experiential Travel in the Philippines

SIQUIJOR Island - Exploring the Enchanting!

Welcome to this week’s edition of Finding Utopia! We are thrilled to share our latest blog post, published today, which takes you on an enchanting journey to the mystical island of Siquijor in the Philippines. Known for its captivating natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Siquijor is a unique destination that offers more than meets the eye.

Explore the Enchanting Siquijor Island

Siquijor, also known as the "Island of Fire," has long been associated with mystical folklore and traditional healing practices. But beyond its mystical reputation, this island boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the Philippines, from pristine beaches to lush green hills. Siquijor is a paradise for nature lovers, beachgoers, and adventure seekers alike.

Highlights of Siquijor

• Cambugahay Falls: These breathtaking three-tiered waterfalls are one of the island’s most popular attractions. The crystal-clear waters invite you for a refreshing dip, while the surrounding lush jungle offers a serene environment for relaxation.

• Salagdoong Beach: A favorite among visitors for its powdery white sands and azure waters, this beach is perfect for swimming, cliff diving, and soaking in the sun.

• Old Balete Tree and Fish Spa: Known as the “enchanted tree,” this centuries-old Balete tree is surrounded by natural spring waters where visitors can enjoy a relaxing fish spa.

• San Isidro Labrador Church and Convent: Dating back to the 18th century, these historic landmarks showcase Siquijor’s rich Spanish colonial heritage.

Embrace the Mystical Culture

Siquijor’s culture is deeply rooted in traditional healing and folk rituals. Local healers, also known as "mananambals," offer herbal remedies and mystical practices that are still respected and practiced today. These rituals have become part of Siquijor's unique charm, attracting both curious tourists and those seeking alternative healing.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Siquijor is during the dry season, from November to May, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget to pack light clothing, swimwear, sunblock, and comfortable footwear for trekking to waterfalls and caves.

• How to Get There: Siquijor is easily accessible via ferry from Dumaguete, Cebu, and Bohol. Detailed travel tips can be found in our full blog post.

Take Away

Siquijor Island offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and mystical experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Siquijor has something for everyone.

 Discover the full magic of this island here: SIQUIJOR Island-Exploring the Enchanting (kgmresorts.com)

Thank you for being part of our Finding Utopia community. Stay tuned for more exciting travel insights in our next newsletter!

Three Camel Lodge Mongolia - Luxury Resort Pick of the Week!

Welcome to our Luxury Resort Pick of the Week! Our latest blog post, published on Thursday, September 5, which highlights the unique charm and eco-friendly luxury of Three Camel Lodge in Mongolia. This exceptional resort is nestled in the heart of the Gobi Desert, offering travelers an unforgettable experience surrounded by one of the most breathtaking and remote landscapes in the world.

Three Camel Lodge is not just a resort—it's an extraordinary escape into the wilds of Mongolia, where you can immerse yourself in nomadic culture and enjoy the serenity of the desert. The resort seamlessly blends luxury with sustainability, making it the perfect getaway for eco-conscious travelers.

Highlights of Three Camel Lodge

Traditional Mongolian Ger Accommodations

Authentic and Luxurious Gers: Stay in traditional Mongolian ger tents, handcrafted by local artisans using sustainable materials. These accommodations are elegantly designed and equipped with modern comforts, offering a perfect blend of traditional living and luxury.

Spectacular Desert Views: Wake up to panoramic views of the Gobi Desert from the privacy of your ger, where the vast landscape stretches out before you, offering a tranquil and peaceful retreat.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Practices

Committed to Sustainability: Three Camel Lodge is powered by renewable energy, including solar and wind power, and is deeply committed to preserving Mongolia's unique environment and supporting local communities.

Local Cultural Experiences: Engage with the rich Mongolian culture through camel treks, horseback riding, and guided tours to nearby historic sites such as the Flaming Cliffs, where some of the world's most important dinosaur fossils were discovered.

Wellness and Relaxation

Rejuvenate in Nature: Enjoy the calming atmosphere of the Gobi Desert as you relax and rejuvenate at the lodge. Whether it’s stargazing under the vast night sky or meditating in the peaceful surroundings, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Activities and Adventures

Explore the Gobi Desert: Take part in exciting desert adventures, such as exploring ancient petroglyphs, trekking through dramatic sand dunes, or visiting the renowned Yol Valley for a closer encounter with Mongolia's wildlife.

Nomadic Culture Tours: Discover the traditional way of life of Mongolia's nomadic people through immersive cultural tours. Visit local families and learn about their customs, heritage, and daily life in the Gobi.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Three Camel Lodge is from May to September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and desert exploration.

Packing Essentials: Be sure to bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

How to Get There: The lodge is accessible via domestic flights from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad airport, followed by a scenic drive through the Gobi Desert.

Take Away

Three Camel Lodge is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination that offers an authentic and luxurious experience in the heart of one of the world’s most untouched and beautiful environments. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful escape, this eco-lodge delivers an experience like no other.

To learn more about this incredible resort, read our full blog post here. Three Camel Lodge, Mongolia: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week (kgmresorts.com)

Thank you for being part of the Finding Utopia community! Stay tuned for more exciting travel destinations in our next newsletter.

The Pulse t: Philippines Shines at 2024 World Travel Awards – 8 Major Wins!

Philippines' exceptional performance at the 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA). Our beloved country bagged eight major awards, reinforcing its position as a top global tourist destination.

Highlights from the 2024 WTA Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony

Hosted for the first time by the Philippines at the City of Dreams Manila, the prestigious awards recognized the country's unparalleled tourism offerings. Here’s a quick look at the key accolades:

• Asia's Leading Marketing Campaign 2024 ("Love The Philippines")

• Asia's Leading Luxury Island Destination 2024 (Boracay)

• Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction 2024 (Intramuros)

• Asia's Leading Beach Destination 2024

• Asia's Leading Dive Destination 2024

• Asia's Leading Island Destination 2024

• Asia's Leading Wedding Destination 2024 (Cebu)

• Transformational Leader Award in Tourism Governance (Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco)

These accolades highlight the Philippines' growing reputation for world-class destinations, cultural richness, and unmatched hospitality. The recognition of Boracay as the Best Luxury Island Destination and Intramuros as the Leading Tourist Attraction exemplifies the unique beauty and historical significance of our islands.

The "Love The Philippines" Campaign Takes Center Stage

The award-winning "Love The Philippines" campaign was also recognized, proving that it resonates with the global tourism community. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that the campaign has helped showcase the country's rich culture, festivals, cuisine, and more. This international recognition underlines the strength of the Philippines' tourism vision and the diversity of experiences it offers to travelers worldwide.

What's Next for Philippine Tourism?

This remarkable performance at the World Travel Awards is just the beginning. The Philippines is gearing up to host more international events, reflecting the country's readiness to welcome global visitors. From luxury beach destinations to cultural adventures, there’s something for everyone, and we can’t wait to share more about it with you.

We invite you to celebrate this achievement with us and explore our latest blog posts about the top destinations in the Philippines. Be sure to stay tuned for more updates on exciting developments in Philippine tourism!

Read More: PH bags 8 major tourism awards; ‘Love’ slogan feted | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)

Thank you for being part of the Finding Utopia community! Stay tuned for more exciting travel news in our next newsletter.

The Pulse: PHITEX 2024: Showcasing Experiential Travel in the Philippines

2024 Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2024, the country's largest travel trade event. This year's event promises to highlight the best of what the Philippines has to offer, with a special focus on experiential travel.

PHITEX 2024: A Gateway to Experiential Travel

PHITEX 2024, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), officially opened on Wednesday and attracted 86 foreign buyers from key and emerging markets, including India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The event aims to foster connections and promote the Philippines as a premier travel destination. The TPB's Chief Operating Officer, Maria Margarita Nograles, expressed optimism that the event would surpass the PHP250 million sales leads generated in 2023.

Highlights of the Event

This year’s PHITEX is emphasizing experiential travel, offering visitors the opportunity to engage more deeply with the country’s indigenous communities, culture, and traditions. From learning how to cook traditional dishes to immersive language learning experiences, PHITEX is helping the global travel community discover the unique, meaningful travel experiences the Philippines offers.

Key Markets & Emerging Destinations

With 115 Philippine sellers and 97 foreign buyers from 18 countries, PHITEX is a diverse hub of tourism exchanges. The event features participants from emerging markets like the UAE, Macao, and Indonesia, as well as established key markets such as South Korea, Japan, and the United States.

Bonfire Diving & Northern Mindanao

The Philippines’ renowned beaches remain a crowd favorite, but diving destinations like Camiguin and Agutayan in Northern Mindanao are also gaining attention. These spots were featured as part of the event, demonstrating the country’s wide range of natural attractions and adventure options.

Take away

As the Philippines continues to establish itself as a top travel destination, events like PHITEX showcase the country’s unique offerings through experiential travel and deeper cultural immersion. Whether you're looking to explore new adventures or learn from local communities, the Philippines promises an enriching travel experience.

Read More: PHITEX sells ‘experiential travel’ to key, emerging PH tourism markets | Philippine News Agency (pna.gov.ph)

Thank you for being a valued member of our community. Stay tuned for more updates and travel inspiration in our next newsletter!

Warm regards,

KGM Resorts - Finding Utopia

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