Smokey Tours by Bless the Children
A message from Ms. Juliette Kwee, the founder of Smokey Tours
(2023, retrieved from World Supporter blog)
The Circle is Complete
Hereby an official announcement, with pain in my heart and at the same time a huge smile on my face: Smokey Tours has been divided by Smokey Tours by Bless the Children and Smokey Projects.
A piece of history: 15 years ago, when I arrived in the Philippines and started volunteering for BYSMP (Bless the Children Foundation) I was touched by all the work done by the staff helping the poorest of the poor. Throughout the years I stayed in touch with Bless the Children, doing projects together, organizing events, and anything that seemed interesting and useful.
At the same time, I wanted to help more people in the Philippines, and I wanted people to experience the people in the slums as I did. So, the gap between rich and poor would be not only visible but also experienced. My dream was that with every visit to the slums, and every personal encounter with someone who lives in other circumstances, a seed was planted in people’s lives, so they could see what was important and that we are all the same in the end.
Smokey Tours grew with the help of many: the JoHo Foundation, Reality Tours & Travel, Sining Kamalig, and all kinds of interns, volunteers, and staff. The idea was to stay small and personal. I would never have imagined that I would teach Sustainable tourism at the Asian Institute of Management, be a keynote speaker for Filipino tourism students all over the country and to be awarded with a social entrepreneurship price. I have made many mistakes, but always did what felt the best. It was all about talent development, for our team, for the guests and for the people in the communities in the slums. I have been giving all I had literally and figuratively. It was not always easy and at the same time a lot of fun.
Now it is time to have faith in others. Bless the Children Foundation, I know you can do it, and many people will develop their talents during this adventure. I will always be there and giving a piece of me, with Smokey Projects. The Philippines will always be a part of me. The circle is complete. Bahala na.
Q: What is included in the Smokey Mountain and Happyland Tour?
A: The Smokey Mountain and Happyland Tour takes you through the rich history of Tondo, Manila. You will witness the resilience and spirit of its communities, from Smokey Mountain’s humble beginnings as a landfill to Happyland’s transformation from an informal settlement. You will explore the unique past, inspiring journey of hope, and the transformation that has made Tondo, the other side of Manila, radiate joy and strength.
Q: What is included in the Baseco Tour?
A: The Baseco Tour takes you through the intriguing history of Baseco, a dynamic coastal community in Manila. You will delve into its past, marked by transforming from an industrial zone to the largest barangay in Manila. You will feel the warm hospitality that makes Baseco a destination for visitors seeking an authentic Manila experience.
FAQs
Q: What are the places that Smokey Tours offers experiences to?
A: Smokey Tours by Bless the Children offers experiences to two places: Smokey Mountain and Happyland Tour, Baseco Tour. These two are both Slum Tours.
Q: What is included in the Manila North Cemetery Tour?
A: Currently, the Manila North Cemetery Tour is unavailable because permits are not yet issued by the City of Manila. But once it becomes available, the tour will take you through the captivating history of Manila North Cemetery, a landmark steeped in tales and heritage.
Q: What are the tour schedules and the duration of the tour?
A: The Solo/Group Tour is available from Monday to Sunday with a morning schedule at 9 am and an afternoon schedule at 1 pm. The tours have a duration of 2 and a half hours.
Q: What are the rates for the tours?
A: For a solo/group tour, the rate is ₱1500 per person per tour area. If you wish to have a private tour (anytime from 8 am-3 pm), it is ₱3000 per person per tour area.
Q: How can I schedule a tour?
A: You may fill out this form for us to schedule your tour:
Name:
Nationality:
WhatsApp number:
Number of people attending the tour:
Preferred date and time: (AM/PM; MM/DD/YY)
Preferred tour area:
Option 1: Smokey Mountain and Happyland Tour (Tondo, Manila)
Option 2: Baseco Tour (Port Area, Manila)
Mode of payment: (preferably cash on the day of the tour)
Send it to our email (info@bysmpblessthechildren.com)
It is suggested that you message us at least three (3) days for advance notice for tour bookings. This will give us enough time to confirm and ensure that everything is in order. However, if you message us the day before you want to join the tour, we will try our best to accommodate your request, but we cannot guarantee availability.