Images of warm beaches, roaring waterfalls, and pristine landscapes came to life on a giant screen in a packed ballroom at a Vancouver hotel.

It was the first stop of a four-city road show aimed at promoting tourism in the Philippines.

For many Canadians, the tropical Asian nation of more than 7,000 islands and a coastline of more than 36,000 kilometres has been a destination of choice. Canada is eighth in the top 10 countries whose nationals come to the Philippines to relax and enjoy its varied offerings.

In 2013, more than 130,000 Canadians visited the Philippines, after South Korea, the U.S., Japan, China, Australia, Singapore, and Taiwan. Visitors from Hong Kong and the U.K. come ninth and tenth after Canadians.

Canadians may not be the biggest group but they’re the ones who spend the most. According to figures from the Philippines’ ministry of tourism, Canadians spend per capita an average of US$1,393.

Australians come next with respect to expenditures during their visits. The other high spending markets are Germany, the U.S., the U.K., and South Korea.

The Vancouver leg of the tourism road show saw the attendance of travel operators from the Philippines and local government officials eager to network with potential Canadian partners.

The Philippine consulate in Vancouver helped organize the marketing event, which was put together by tourism officials of the Philippine government.

Philippine consul Anthony Mandap explained in an interview today (April 1) that the promotional tour seeks to highlight the fun element in travelling to the Asian country.

“It’s really the very favourable impression that a tourist gets,” Mandap told the Georgia Straight. “What lingers in their minds is the fun, the enjoyment, and the cheerfulness of the people.”

According to Mandap, the Philippines is an ideal destination for many Canadians wanting to escape the cold.

“It is also perfect for Filipino Canadians,” the amiable diplomat said. “They now have a reason to extend their stay and enjoy the countryside and islands after having spent their time with family and kin.”

The tourism road show will make stops in Winnipeg, Toronto, and Ottawa.

Philippine tourism officials are keen on seeing more growth from the Canadian market. According to their figures, arrivals grew by more than 95,000 over a 12-year period. Visitors from Canada are projected to increase to more than 228,000 by 2016.

In addition to its natural wonders and warm climate, Mandap of the Philippine consulate in Vancouver stressed that the country’s greatest asset is its friendly people. According to Mandap, tourists arrive as guests and they often leave as friends.