27th Philippine Travel Mart @ SMX Convention Center, MOA Complex (First-time Experience)

Travel Expo's is where we can find discounted travel packages, plane tickets and other travel deals. This year, the Philippine Tour Operations Association (PHILTOA) held the 27th Philippine Travel Mart, the longest annual travel event in the country. The event lasted for three days (September 2-4 2016) allowing everyone to book an affordable travel deal to their favorite destinations. The event was held at the SMX Convention Center Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

I got the chance to visit the event on its first day last September 2. Registration fee is only Php50 per person. It was my first time attending such event and my only purpose then was to get a SKyjet Php727 plane ticket to Batanes. Unfortunately slots were already fully booked that day as early as 11AM, just one hour right after the event started. Citibank credit card holders also had a priority booking hence the early cut off. We were given a priority certificate and number and that we will be assisted first the following day,  so we decided to just spend our time checking other booths.

Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Airasia were present in the event offering exclusive discounted plane tickets to the on-goers. A lot of other Travel Agencies and booths from different regions were also in the area promoting different tourist destinations. There were a lot of super affordable travel deals that one can choose from, for as low as Php900. I was quite amazed when I saw Punta Bulata's booth, a well-known resort in my beloved hometown as well as other newly discovered beautiful beaches. Negros Occidental also had their own booth, amazing!



There were different cultural shows from different cultural groups and organizations showcasing their talents in music and dancing, chorale competitions; Harana ng Kundiman and folk dances, to name a few. Food kiosks were also available in the area.


Indeed, Travel Expo's is a place where one can find super affordable travel deals. Will definitely not miss next year's event.