A Trip Beyond the Horizon

Dear valued partners and friends,

One afternoon in the office, I was browsing casually on my computer for the list of adventures we already have. After seeing multiple photos of beautiful beach sceneries, I stumbled upon my files on Banaue. I thought to myself, It’s been a while since we last revisited this cherished destination. As I reflected on Banaue, I wondered, what new experiences could still be uncovered beyond the countless articles, editorials and travel blogs already out there? Yet, something profound reminded me of why I hold this country so dear. The Philippines is a heritage trove with a young and energetic population that constantly drives the evolution of its culture — a winning recipe for new hidden gems cropping up everywhere, amidst its many known treasures.

Inspired by this, I tasked my team with a mission to go on an inspection trip to Banaue. My guidance to them was simple: rediscover and revitalise.

Rediscovering Banaue

As we delve back into the wonders of Banaue, we are reminded of the timeless beauty and cultural richness that this extraordinary destination offers. The iconic rice terraces, lovingly and meticulously carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people, are not just a testament to human ingenuity but also a living piece of history that continues to captivate travellers from around the globe. Each visit unveils something new — whether it’s a hidden pathway, a fresh perspective, or a deeper connection with the local community. Rediscovering Banaue is like peeling back layers of a treasured book, each chapter more enchanting than the last.

Revitalising Our Banaue Offerings

Building on this sense of rediscovery, we are thrilled to introduce our latest offerings inspired by the spirit of Banaue. These new products aim to capture the essence of the fascinating locale — elevating engagements with the locals, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative experiences, and community-driven initiatives that champions for a global-worthy local offering.

Instead of simply watching the wonders of Banaue farming from afar, we invite your guests to immerse in the process of local farming and have a hands-on experience from planting to milling produce. Instead of just looking at unearthed artefacts of ancient Sagada’s pottery in museums, now they can create their own pottery work using the same ancient techniques. And instead of merely enjoying a cup of local Sagada coffee, they can immerse themselves in the unique local techniques of the product: picking coffee cherries, roasting, and brewing their own perfect cup, all while learning about the rich history and cultural significance of Sagada coffee.

Ultimately, we strive to breathe new life into your guests’ Banaue experience. Just as the rice terraces are revitalised each planting season, we hope that our products and services continually inspire and help breathe new life into your and your guests’ travels.

Maligayang paglalakbay!

Yours,

Gregor

Sowing a Soul-Nourishing Adventure

We're excited to introduce the latest upgrades to our Heirloom Rice program, meticulously re-designed to provide an immersive journey that truly captures the essence of Banaue! It now offers a deeper dive into the rich agricultural heritage of this region with an experiential and sensorial adventure in the art of rice milling. Join us as we invite your guests to feel the weight of Banaue's history in their hands, touching and feeling each grain while learning its story from knowledgeable locals. Through ancient techniques passed down through generations, participants will gain a profound appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship involved in rice production.

Moreover, as the rice planting season dawns, your travellers are welcome to join the local farmers in nurturing their farmland. In the experience, they will sink their hands into the rich soil, feeling the earth beneath their feet as they plant alongside seasoned cultivators. This hands-on experience not only fosters a deeper connection to the land and its people, but also serves as a poignant reminder of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature.

This refreshed adventure transcends mere observation, empowering travellers to become an integral part of Banaue's narrative. By actively participating in these time-honoured traditions, your guests contribute to the preservation and celebration of our country’s rich cultural heritage.

A Pot of Heritage Gold

Further northwest from Banaue is the enchanting world of Sagada Pottery. No longer confined to simply admiring ancient artefacts behind a museum’s glass window, your travellers now have the opportunity to actively participate in the timeless craft of pottery-making, using age-old techniques passed down through generations.

They are invited to step into the traditional pottery studio and feel the cool clay beneath their fingertips as they shape and mould their own masterpiece. Whether they’re crafting a bowl, mug or vase, each creation carries with it a piece of Sagada's rich cultural heritage. And the best part? They can have their finished piece delivered straight to their doorstep, serving as a tangible reminder of their unforgettable experience in Sagada. While the journey from clay to kiln to their home may take approximately four months, the anticipation only adds to the excitement of receiving their personalised pottery treasure.

This isn't just about creating pottery; it's about connecting with the land, the people, and the traditions that make Sagada truly special.

Awakening Senses and Adventures

Still in Sagada, we invite your guests to embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of its coffee culture with the Sagada Coffee program, awakening their senses to a world beyond simply savouring a cup of local brew. Here, amidst verdant coffee plantations, they will have the unique opportunity to engage in the age-old techniques of coffee cultivation, from carefully picking ripe coffee cherries to hand-roasting them to perfection. Working alongside local farmers, they will feel the warmth of the sun on their skin, gaining a newfound appreciation for the art of coffee production.

But the journey doesn't end there. After harvesting and roasting their beans, they will delve into the art of brewing, discovering the subtle nuances that define a truly exceptional cup of Sagada coffee. From the grind to the pour, every step is a celebration of Sagada's rich history and cultural significance in the world of coffee. This immersive experience can be conveniently added to your traveller's itinerary. We strongly recommend doing so, as it promises to be a highlight of their journey through this enchanting region.

Let's work together to create journeys that leave a lasting impression and inspire a lifelong love for the beauty and culture of Banaue.

New Faces at Blue Horizons Travel and Tours

We are excited to introduce our newest team members as we push forward with our journey of transformation and growth! Each member contributes their special talents and knowledge to design meaningful and unforgettable travel experiences for your travellers.

Jacqueline Enrico: Outbound Travel Consultant — Corporate Travel and MICE
Joshua Abila: Inbound Travel Consultant
Alyssa Magpantay: Inbound Travel Consultant — Groups
Coy Casilla: Outbound Account Manager

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