Cebu, Philippines Named Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination
The Philippines emerged as a major winner at the 31st Annual World Travel Awards (WTA), securing 8 prestigious titles in the Asia category. Among these accolades, Cebu was crowned Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination for 2024.
This event, which took place at the City of Dreams in Parañaque on September 3rd, was a milestone for the Philippines, marking the first time the country hosted the renowned travel awards ceremony. The announcements were made public on September 4, further solidifying the Philippines’ position in the global travel and tourism industry.
Cebu Overtakes Bali as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination
Cebu’s recognition as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination dethroned Bali, Indonesia, which had held the title for 5 consecutive years. Cebu Vice Governor Hilario Davide III accepted the award on behalf of Governor Gwendolyn Garcia. This achievement is expected to enhance Cebu’s global appeal as a wedding destination, attracting more international couples and boosting tourism in the region.
The recognition brings significant attention to Cebu, positioning it as a top choice for destination weddings, not just in Asia but globally. The island’s natural beauty, combined with its expanding luxury hospitality and wedding venues, offers an attractive alternative for couples looking to tie the knot in an exotic location. This shift from Bali to Cebu is likely to affect global travel trends, especially in the destination wedding market, encouraging more travelers to consider the Philippines for their special occasions.
Cebu boasts a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Some of Cebu's main attractions include:
- Kawasan Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall system known for its turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and canyoneering.
- Oslob Whale Sharks: Witness majestic whale sharks in their natural habitat through regulated tours.
- Temple of Leah: A Roman-inspired architectural marvel built as a testament of love.
- Magellan's Cross: A historical landmark symbolizing the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines.
- Basilica Minore del Santo Niño: A centuries-old church housing the revered Santo Niño image.
- Cebu Taoist Temple: A colorful temple offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Taoist beliefs.
- Sirao Flower Garden: A vibrant garden filled with various flowers, also known as the "Little Amsterdam of Cebu.
Cebu, with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers a variety of breathtaking venues that are perfect for a destination wedding. Here are a few of the top wedding venues in Cebu:
- Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa
- Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan
- Plantation Bay Resort & Spa
- Chateau by the Sea
- Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu
Other Philippine Destinations Shine
Cebu was not the only Philippine destination to make headlines. The Philippines also retained its titles as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination and Leading Beach Destination. Amanpulo, a luxury island resort, continued its reign as Asia’s Leading Private Island Resort since 2019. Manila’s historic Walled City of Intramuros was also honored as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, a title it has won multiple times over the years.
Additional awards were presented to Boracay, which was named Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and El Nido Resorts Apulit Island, recognized as Asia’s Leading Sustainable Resort. The recognition of these destinations reinforces the Philippines’ standing as a top travel destination in Asia, with a diverse range of attractions catering to various interests, from luxury and sustainability to history and adventure.
Boost to Philippine Tourism and Global Travel Industry
These accolades are expected to have far-reaching effects on the travel industry, particularly for the Philippines. With Cebu now recognized as a premier wedding destination, and other Philippine islands and resorts earning top honors, international travelers are likely to flock to the country, increasing inbound tourism. This is especially important as the Philippines seeks to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and boost its tourism sector.
