DOT launches online tours of local destinations

Filipinos who have put their travel plans on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic may still enjoy the sights and sounds of different tourist destinations across the country through an interactive virtual tour.

Dubbed as “Where in the Philippines is Sam San Mateo?” the gamified online tour is a partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Mystery Manila, the first interactive game room in the country. It uses actual tour guides, stationed in selected destinations across the country, to lead the game through video streaming.

During the tour to famous landmarks and destinations online, participants can find helpful clues that will reveal the next destination and further their quest to track down Sam San Mateo, the game’s fictional travel vlogger.

“This virtual tour offers a fun and safe way to discover the beauty and charm of the Philippines’ 7,641 islands: the historic cities, enchanting sunsets, picture-perfect beaches with crystal clear waters, or extraordinary mountain views, all from the comfort of their computers,” the DOT said.

“The highly interactive 60- to-90-minute tour will allow players to see and remember just why #ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines by immersing themselves in the next best thing to physical travel,” it added.

Players can interact with locals through the live tour guides and participate in activities.

The gamified online tour will be free to the public and open to all players every Sunday this month with the following schedules: 10 a.m., 12 noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Interested participants may register through this link: https://forms.gle/ZEs6potqSLf47BJY9. INQ