PATA appeals to holidaymakers heading for Asia
Travellers are being urged to continue with holiday plans for South-East Asia despite this week’s earthquake in the region.
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) says the earthquake just off the coast of Indonesia affected only a localised area and urged tourists to continue travelling.
PATA president and chief executive Peter de Jong said: “This is a cruel blow to people who have suffered enough, just as they were rebuilding their communities after the December 26 tsunami.
“It is imperative that travellers continue with their travel plans and support destinations in South-East Asia.
The money they spend and the hearts they touch mean a lot for people who are currently rebuilding their lives.
“It is important that the latest setback does not disrupt the physical and psychological reconstruction process underway in travel-related communities in the region.”
PATA praised the speed of response by authorities in coastal areas and said it planned to monitor visitor numbers to the affected area and changes in traveller sentiment.
Report by Ginny McGrath
Ginny McGrath
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