Aboex Travel & Tours began its journey in 1995 as a small franchise of Aboitiz Express, operating out of a modest 15-square meter garage in San Fernando, La Union. Fresh from college, Ms. Karen Soller-Santos founded the company with just two employees—a secretary and a messenger. Despite its humble beginnings, the team quickly gained attention by serving a growing number of customers looking for reliable travel options, particularly to the Visayas and Mindanao.
Initially focused on courier services and Super Ferry ticketing, the business soon recognized an emerging opportunity in travel services. As demand for travel solutions increased, the company pivoted, rebranding as ABOEX—a name that merged “Abo” from Aboitiz and “Ex” from Express, reflecting its roots while signaling the new direction. By 1997, Aboex Travel & Tours had fully embraced its new focus, expanding into a full-service travel agency with branches in Laoag City and Vigan City.
The early years were not without challenges. After deciding not to renew the contract with Aboitiz Express, the focus shifted entirely to building the travel agency. It took time for the business to gain traction, but persistence paid off. The turning point came when Aboex Travel earned full accreditation from the Department of Tourism (DoT), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), National Association of Independent Travel Agencies-Philippines Incorporated (NAITAS), and the Regional Travel Agencies Association (RTAA). These accreditations opened the door to more clientele, helping Aboex Travel establish itself as a trusted name in the industry.
For Ms. Karen Soller-Santos, being in the travel industry has not only been a business venture but also a passion that has brought personal fulfillment. She has always valued the opportunity to experience new places firsthand, emphasizing that immersive travel experiences surpass the limitations of photos or written descriptions. This belief has become a guiding principle at Aboex Travel & Tours, driving the company to offer clients authentic, enriching travel experiences that go beyond simply visiting a destination, instead allowing them to fully immerse in the culture and essence of each place. from the Department of Tourism (DoT), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), National Association of Independent Travel Agencies-Philippines Incorporated (NAITAS), and the Regional Travel Agencies Association (RTAA). These accreditations opened the door to more clientele, helping Aboex Travel establish itself as a trusted name in the industry.
As the company expanded, Ms. Soller-Santos remained steadfast in upholding a strong commitment to exceptional customer service and professionalism. The company prioritized obtaining the necessary accreditations and maintaining high industry standards, distinguishing itself in a competitive market where many travel agencies come and go. This focus on personalized care has been integral in building long-term client relationships, ensuring that Aboex remains the trusted choice for travelers.
Today, Aboex Travel & Tours employs 78 full-time employees and collaborates with more than a hundred partner agents, along with a number of part-time tour leaders and salespersons. The company remains committed to investing in training and development, ensuring its team is well-equipped for the company’s continued growth.
With its thriving offices in the province of Ilocos, Aboex Travel & Tours took a significant step in 2017 by expanding to Ortigas in Mandaluyong City, further solidifying its presence in the national market. This strategic move allowed the company to serve a broader client base while staying true to its mission of delivering exceptional travel services both locally and internationally.
Looking ahead, Aboex Travel has fully embraced the digital age. The company has not only provided seamless online booking services through its website but also actively engages with customers through social media platforms. These channels allow Aboex to keep clients informed about the latest travel trends, promotions, and exclusive offers. Through regular updates, travel tips, and interactive contents, customers are empowered to make well-informed decisions and easily book their dream trips with just a few clicks.
From its humble beginnings to its current leadership in the travel industry, Aboex Travel & Tours remains focused on helping travelers explore the beauty of the Philippines and the world, while continually evolving to meet the needs of modern travelers.
ABOEX TRAVEL AND TOURS is a fully integrated travel agency offering a comprehensive range of services to meet the diverse needs of the travel and tourism industry. Established in June 1995, ABOEX TRAVEL AND TOURS operates from three strategic locations in Ortigas (Metro Manila), Vigan (Ilocos Sur), and Laoag (Ilocos Norte). We are committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring the highest levels of satisfaction for our clients.
Our mission is to inspire and empower individuals to explore and experience the vast beauty of the world with ease and enjoyment. We are committed to delivering exceptional service and creating lasting experiences. With a strong focus on professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail, we aim to redefine the role of a travel agency. In everything we do, we strive to be ABOve EXperience!
Our vision is to establish ourselves as a prominent and distinguished leader in the travel and tourism sector, not only in the Philippines but on a global scale. We aspire to be the premier provider of comprehensive travel solutions, setting new standards of excellence in the industry.from the Department of Tourism (DoT), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), National Association of Independent Travel Agencies-Philippines Incorporated (NAITAS), and the Regional Travel Agencies Association (RTAA). These accreditations opened the door to more clientele, helping Aboex Travel establish itself as a trusted name in the industry.
ABOEX TRAVEL AND TOURS is accredited and a proud member of several esteemed organizations,including:
• International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• Department of Tourism (DOT)
• Tourism Promotions Board (TPB)
• Philippine IATA Agents Travel Association (PIATA)
• Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA)
• Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA)
• Ilocos Norte Travel Agencies Association (INTAA)
These accreditations reaffirm our commitment to adhering to the highest standards of professionalism and service in the travel industry.
