Balitang America Travels: Philippine Tourism Stimulus Package Extended

Americans are spending less money on travel this year, which means providers are cutting prices to compete for your business. If you've managed to save some money for a vacation, now may be the right time to find a good deal to the Philippines. In my "Travels" segment on April 13th on Balitang America, I highlighted the Philippine Tourism Stimulus Package again -- just in case you missed it the first time back on March 9th.

Originally scheduled to end on May 23rd, the deal has been extended to June 10th. Still priced starting at $999, the Stimulus Package includes round-trip airfare to Manila on Philippine Airlines (from San Francisco, Los Angeles or Las Vegas), two nights in Manila at a luxury hotel (breakfasts included), and a one-way transfer between the airport and your hotel. If you book your stay at the Dusit Thani Manila, Discovery Suites or Diamond Hotel then you now get an extra third night for free.

Check out the Philippines official tourism website to find the contact information for the consolidators and travel agents that can help you book this package. If you purchase your ticket from Mango Tours, you are also issued a free raffle ticket for a drawing to be held on July 4th. The winner of will receives a free round-trip ticket from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Manila courtesy of Mango Tours.

Remember, the rainy season starts in June, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons of traveling to the Philippines at this time of year. But if you are itching to get away this summer, contact your travel agent to see what discounts are being offered on tour packages, airfare and hotel accommodations. You may be pleasantly surprised at how many deals you have to choose from.

Travels is a weekly TV segment written and produced by Christi Morales. It airs every Monday during Balitang America's (News in America) 5:30pm PST newcast on ABS-CBN Global's The Filipino Channel (TFC). Balitang America can also be seen on KTSF Channel 26 at 6:45pm PST in the San Francisco Bay Area.