𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄: 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧: 𝐁𝐒 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐮

The BS Tourism Management students who took the Transportation (TTRANSPO) course embarked on an enriching familiarization tour in Hong Kong and Macau as part of their comprehensive curriculum. This educational journey took place from September 24 to 27, 2024. The dedicated trainees of Holy Angel Travel Services (HATS) organized the meticulously planned tour in collaboration with Ties That Travel Inc. A total of 94 individuals participated in this immersive experience, including 91 students and three esteemed faculty members, coming together to learn more about the tourism industry.

The adventure commenced with the students assembling at Holy Angel University's premises on September 24, gearing up for their initial mode of transport, a bus, to convey them to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for their flight via Cathay Pacific. The first day was brimming with anticipation and wonder as the students were welcomed into the vibrant city of Hong Kong. Their itinerary included visits to iconic landmarks such as the revered Avenue of Stars, the legendary Bruce Lee statue, the awe-inspiring Sky Terrace, and the majestic Victoria Peak, where they rode a tram and saw the breathtaking view of the city as well as the sea. As the day drew to a close, the students checked in at the Regal Oriental, their comfortable and inviting home for the next three nights.

The second day was a magical experience as the students immersed themselves in the enchanting world of Disneyland. Dressed in their fantasy attire and sporting Mickey Ear headbands, they eagerly indulged in thrilling rides — from the heart-pounding roller coasters to the whimsical adventures, experiencing the excitement of each attraction. They also participated in recreational activities, marveled at the grand parade, interacted with beloved Disney characters, and concluded the day with a mesmerizing fireworks display that lit up the night sky, making this memorable day even more special.

On the third day, the students ventured to the Las Vegas of the East, more commonly known as the autonomous region of Macau, and delved into its rich cultural heritage. Their exploration led them to iconic landmarks such as the awe-inspiring Ruins of Saint Paul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is an essential symbol of Macau's storied past. The students also had the opportunity to visit the exquisite Church of Saint Dominic, where they gained profound insights into the region's religious and cultural legacy. Additionally, they savored the luxury of European-inspired architecture at the Parisian Macau Eiffel Tower and The Venetian Hotel Shopping Mall. Finally, they arrived at Macau Taipa to board a ferry via Cotai Water Jet to head back to Hong Kong.

As the students got up on the last day, they packed their luggage before heading towards their last stop of the tour, Ocean Park. Upon arrival, they wasted no time and immediately boarded the cable cars to explore the other side of the park. There, they indulged in thrilling rides and experienced the main highlights of Ocean Park — its diverse array of wildlife. The students immersed themselves in the park's natural wonders, from majestic arctic animals to fascinating aquatic creatures. The students made the most of it before returning to the bus terminal, transporting them back to Hong Kong International Airport, where they officially bid farewell to Hong Kong and boarded their flight back home to the Philippines.

This tour certainly provided comprehensive insight into their potential future careers. Through the tour, they had the opportunity to explore various modes of transportation, including road vehicles, railways, watercraft, and air travel. The tour culminated in a resounding success, as it effectively enlightened the students and imparted valuable knowledge about the travel industry while shedding light on tourism's nature.

Written by: Naureen Perillo

Photos by: Shaina Tuñgul