Tourism will bounce back
The continuing threat of COVID-19 notwithstanding, Park Inn by Radisson Clark unveils 100 new rooms at its just-opened south wing
Experts agree that, while the travel industry has been dealt a heavy blow by COVID-19, trips both local and abroad will become easier again. Among the hopeful predictions, particularly in Europe, is the emergence of a relatively new demographic whom the experts refer to as the “conscious traveler.” This kind of vacationer is someone discerning of his or her journeys, who would be away from home for an extended period made possible by the remote work setup. A wise spender, eco-centric, and more appreciative of foreign or unfamiliar communities, persons, places, and cultures, he or she observes health guidelines strictly.
Trips will be more carefully curated and hold more meaning as traveling, regardless of distance, will now entail greater risks, not to mention costs and effort. This health emergency is taking way too long to get resolved once and for all, but it should not discourage us from living our lives full. On the contrary, it should inspire us further to go out and celebrate life, but in a more responsible, careful, and conscious manner.
As our hunger for the excitement and freedom of exploring the great outdoors grow by the day, revenge travel is bound to happen, perhaps sooner than we think. Local tourist destinations are becoming more accessible to everyone once more, from Boracay to Bohol, and—let’s not even go far—Baguio.
A key factor that instills hope and makes the recovery of the tourism industry more attainable is the undertaking and innovations of certain hospitality brands. Despite the economic turmoil, there are a few hotels that continue to blaze new trails, one of which is Park Inn by Radisson. The Clark branch in Pampanga has recently increased its inventory by 65 percent, adding 100 new rooms and suites with the opening of its south wing. This is in line with the projected upsurge in passenger traffic at the Clark International Airport, located just a 10-minute drive away from the vibrant, multi-use hotel.
The newly constructed south wing exudes the colorful upper midscale concept of Radisson Hotel Group. Accommodation includes 95 superior rooms, featuring comfortable bedding, working desks, mini-bars, sensor-activated air-conditioning, in-room technology such as Internet protocol television or IPTVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and modern bathrooms with standalone rain showers. Five additional suites offer separate living areas and even Nespresso machines.
“The opening of Park Inn by Radisson Clark’s south wing is a manifestation of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC)’s optimistic outlook and confidence in the hospitality industry. Nestled in an unmatched location within SM’s integrated mixed-use development, alongside the upcoming SMX Convention Center Clark, the hotel is poised to cement its position as a key player in Central Luzon’s tourism and MICE sectors,” says SMHCC executive vice president Peggy E. Angeles.
Guests of the business hotel would be able to utilize the outdoor pool, the fitness center, the grab-and-go snack zone, and dine at the HUES restaurant and lobby bar. Three meeting rooms are also available for corporate guests. Located right next door is the SM City Clark shopping mall, for those hankering for retail therapy.
For five consecutive years, Park Inn by Radisson Clark has been awarded the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. It has proved to be an important shelter for Filipinos who require quarantine upon returning to the country. It also remains as one of the top business hotels in the area.
“We have been privileged to host quarantining guests in recent months. The launch of our new south wing will now enhance our ability to operate as a multiple-use hotel, catering to the needs of business travelers and returning Filipinos. With new domestic and international passenger terminals scheduled to open at Clark International Airport this year, our expansion will help us to cater to rising demand in all sectors of the market,” says Ann Olalo, general manager at Park Inn by Radisson Clark.
The 154-key North Wing continues to house Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs). The establishment has been SGS-certified and adheres strictly to the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol. Quarantining guests are prohibited from access to public areas and facilities. Not only is this multiple-use flexibility able to provide options for leisure guests, but it also supports the nationwide COVID-19 strategy.
“The unveiling of the new south wing at Park Inn by Radisson Clark will enhance our ability to create exceptional, upbeat guest experiences. At Radisson Hotel Group, we appreciate the strong, long-standing relationships we have with our owners in the Philippines. SMHCC has been instrumental in the roll-out of Park Inn by Radisson’s new brand positioning and we look forward to continuing our relationship with them in the future,” says vice president for operations of the South East Asia and Pacific Radisson Hotel Group, Andre de Jong.
Park Inn by Radisson currently has four hotels operating in the Philippines, namely in Clark, North Edsa, Davao, and Iloilo. Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, on the other hand, is in the pipeline. Filipino and international travelers alike enjoy the brand’s upbeat vibe, all over the country.
‘The opening of Park Inn by Radisson Clark’s south wing is a manifestation of SM Hotels’ optimistic outlook and confidence in the hospitality industry.’