The typhoon-hit Philippines remains a safe holiday destination, tour experts said this week.
Local people rely heavily on tourism and most hotels and other facilities are unaffected by the devastating disaster which came just weeks after a powerful earthquake.
Nigel Sutherland, head of UK-based PhilippineTrails.com, said: "No one can fail to have been moved by images from the recent natural disasters that have affected the Philippines.
"The warmth, friendliness and hospitality of Filipinos is world-renowned. Fortunately, these events have been mainly limited to specific regions of the country. For much of the Philippines, it's 'business as usual'.
"Most of the country, especially the main tourist areas, has not been affected so dramatically, as the typhoon cut a narrow path as it traversed the country. Furthermore, hotels and resorts in the Philippines are generally large, sturdy buildings made from modern materials, and architecturally sound.
"Flights and ferry services have quickly resumed, and popular tourist desrinations such as Boracay, Puerto Galera, Palawan, Banaue, Vigan, Bohol and Samal Island, continue to operate normally."
Nigel added: "Tourism is a hugely important industry for many Philippines communities. The popular areas that have invested to attract and accommodate visitors, rely on tourism to bring employment to local people, whether it's direct employment by the hotels and resorts, or service industries supplying fresh food and produce, or operating local tours, excursions, and sailing expeditions."
A spokesman for the Philippines' Department of Tourism said: "The Philippines remains a safe and fun destination for all tourists, notwithstanding this unfortunate incident. The great majority of touristic products are available, whether one is looking for a beach vacation, historical trip, gastronomic tour, or one of the many other possible travel opportunities.
"The country is home to some of the world’s great tourist sites and adventures with its unparalleled natural wonders, spectacular beaches, world-renowned heritage sites, modern shopping complexes, rich biodiversity, culture, and history."
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