Travel award not surprising

CEBU’S leaders said they were not surprised that the province and the Visayas region was recognized as one of the top five islands in Asia.

“I understand the friendliness of the people was taken into consideration (in the decision). I’m happy, we have always encouraged the people to be tourist-friendly. We will endeavor to go even higher and remain there,” Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale said.

“The recognition is another confirmation. I’ve always given credit to the people of Cebu. We’ve been recognized in tourism, IT and BPO among others,” she said.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama also said the recognition is expected.

“Congratulations to us. Nindot man gyud kaayo ning atong lugar (Our place is really beautiful),” Rama said.

Cebu and the Visayas placed third in the Condé Nast Traveler Magazine’s 26th Annual Reader’s Choice Awards in the islands category.

Cebu and the Visayan Islands registered high marks in the “friendliness, scenery and beaches” categories.

The recognition was given on Oct. 15, the day when the province was rocked by a 7.2-magnitude earthquake.

Condé Nast Traveler Magazine announced online the winners of the 26th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, which rank the best cities, islands, cruise lines, airlines, hotels and resorts in the world.

The full list will appear in the magazine’s November 2013 issue. The Visayan Islands include the major islands of Cebu, Panay, Negros, Bohol, Leyte and Samar.

The magazine’s Readers’ Choice Survey, begun in 1988, and is available through a secure website. Correspondent Jose Santino S. Bunachita