An increasing number of Filipinos are traveling to Europe for spiritual pilgrimages during the Holy Year of Jubilee, a special event in the Catholic Church that happens every 25 years. The Jubilee commemorates the incarnation of Jesus Christ.
This year’s pilgrimage is themed Pilgrims of Hope by Pope Francis, who encourages Catholics to visit Rome and other Jubilee churches around the world. Pilgrims can earn plenary indulgences, which are said to forgive sins.
Rowena Coloma, managing director of Travel Specialist Ventures, noted that there is a “very strong demand for Europe” this year, resulting in most hotels in Rome being fully booked. She mentioned that tour packages focusing on Italy, Spain, and France are popular, especially those that include visits to Marian apparition sites and miraculous locations. Some packages also offer extensions to Paris for shopping and leisure.
Olivier Moeschler, CEO of Miki Travel’s Asia Division, observed that travel from the Philippines to Europe has been steadily growing since 2023. This growth is not limited to religious pilgrimages but also includes family travel, river cruises, and trips to emerging destinations like the Balkans and Nordic countries. According to Moeschler, the Philippines is now Miki Travel’s fastest-growing market to Europe, surpassing Singapore, which ranks second.
While pilgrimage remains a primary reason for travel, other factors are also influencing the shift toward Europe. Marianne Malinao Talismo, owner and operations manager of Amkor Travel and Tours, explained that some Filipinos are turning to Europe because Holy Land destinations are still closed and Japan’s visa processing has become more time-consuming.
Talismo added that pilgrimage groups to Europe are expected to start departing in April, with more scheduled for October onward.
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