In this era of travel, tourists seek personal engagement, seamless bookings, and real-time connection to share all about their adventures. Being at the heart of tourist service, the hotel and food service industry must meet the evolving needs of customers and embrace digitalization. 

To bring its digital tools to the tourism sector in Palawan, Globe Business recently launched its Digital Horizons roadshow in Coron, aiming to unite visionary entrepreneurs and industry experts. The hybrid event allowed them to share insights and the tools they use to enhance their businesses and unlock Coron’s potential as a prime tourist destination. At the event, participants explored curated digital tools to elevate guest experiences and received expert support for their digitalization journey.

Industry must-haves: Online presence and connectivity

Digital Horizons featured a fireside chat that gathered industry leaders Chin Fernandez, President of Calamianes Association of Tourism Establishments; Alvin Ladisla, General Manager of Coron Soleil Garden Resort; Mina Akram, Executive Director of Go Negosyo; and Alvin Molina, travel content creator behind the page “Just Got Fed” on TikTok and Instagram.

From the discussions, MSME participants learned that they need consistent and authentic online presence through various social media and fast and reliable connectivity that will enable seamless interactions with their customer base online.

“Online presence distinguishes you from competitors and showcases your offerings before they visit. It preemptively addresses questions, eliminating this pain point,” said Molina.

But online presence should be complemented with consistency, noted Akram. “Online authenticity drives real-life success. Keeping your promised online experience leads to customer growth, better reception, and increased attraction to your business,” she added.

Discussions also emphasized how businesses should embrace digitalization positively as it could boost process speed and efficiency, allowing them to focus on other endeavors like refining marketing to reach new untapped markets.

Globe Business solutions for the new traveler experience

During the roadshow, participants got the chance to experience first-hand Globe Business’ suite of digital tools aimed at elevating every stage of the new traveler experience, from planning trips to booking stays and providing feedback.

These digital solutions include Direct Internet and Business WiFi, a leased line with WiFi access points that allow businesses, such as hotels, resorts, and restaurants, to provide their guests with a seamless WiFi experience in every corner of their property.

Managed CCTV, meanwhile, is a digital tool that adds a layer of protection and a competitive edge to businesses as it improves the security of guests and employees. This Globe Business solution gives businesses access to Globe’s wide network of reliable system partners, on-site technical support on an 8-5 or 24/7 basis, and worry-free set-up and maintenance of industry-grade video surveillance equipment.

Meanwhile, a website service powered by e-commerce platform Prosperna allows Globe Business customers to establish their online presence and strengthen their credibility. By creating their own e-commerce store, they can seamlessly manage customer transactions from reservations to payments, and interact with potential guests. 

“As more people eagerly resume travel, a golden opportunity arises for businesses to capitalize on the rising demand of tourists. Let Globe Business be your trusted and reliable partner in elevating your business through digital technology. Together, let us blaze the trail for the future of Philippine tourism through technology,” said KD Dizon, Globe Business Head.

Learn more about Globe Business solutions and special offers for tourism MSMEs here (https://glbe.co/dh-palawan-pr2). 

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