Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)

About us

Founded in 1951, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for-profit membership-based association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. By bringing together our private and public sector members, PATA facilitates meaningful partnerships to enhance the value, quality and sustainable growth of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region. The Association provides aligned advocacy, insightful research and innovative events to its more than 650 member organisations, including 82 government, state and city tourism bodies, 14 international airlines and airports, 71 hospitality organisations and 75 educational institutions, as well as thousands of youth (YTP) members across the world. The PATA network also embraces the grassroots activism of ...Read more

Company Name : American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA)

Company Website

Travel Agent website

News & announcements

16 Sep 25
Partner News
PATA celebrates remarkable turnout at flagship travel agent training event despite strikes and storms
Despite London tube strikes and heavy rain, an impressive 77 travel agents still turned ...Read more
PATA celebrates remarkable turnout at flagship travel agent training event despite strikes and storms - News & announcements

Despite London tube strikes and heavy rain, an impressive 77 travel agents still turned out in force last night (11 September 2025) for Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland’s annual flagship training event, Taste of PATA. “Given the circumstances, attracting 77 agents is a remarkable achievement,” said Chris Crampton, Chairman of PATA UK & Ireland. “Huge thanks go to the dedicated agents who battled both transport disruption and wild weather to take part, and to our suppliers who also joined the challenges.” The evening provided travel agents with the opportunity to network with 12 suppliers from across the Pacific Asia region. Set up as a fayre with interactive stands, guests discovered a wide range of products while enjoying regional food and drinks, and experienced lively entertainment including wine and beer tastings, henna tattoos, Thai massages, fruit-carving masterclasses, plus games and quizzes with spot prizes. Suppliers at the event included:

Visit Qatar

Elephant Hills

Outrigger Hotels and Resorts and Haad Tien Beach Resort

Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Minor Hotels

Air New Zealand

South Australia Tourism Commission

Thai Airways

Singapore Airlines

Tahiti Tourisme

The Anam Hotels and Paradise Cruises, Vietnam

Lewis Millar from WorldLux Travel shared his thoughts on why he was at Taste of PATA for the first time: “I’d heard from colleagues who had attended the event previously, and they said it’s a really great opportunity to expand your knowledge about the Pacific Asia region and meet suppliers you wouldn’t normally encounter, while also gaining access to unique insights. I’m glad I made the journey as they were right, and I’ll definitely be at the next event!” Travel agent Greg Taylor from Drifters Travel has been coming to TASTE of PATA for over seventeen years and is still a huge fan: “We always attend the event as it’s a great opportunity to meet different suppliers, stay up to date with new products, and catch up with old friends with great food too!” Exhibiting for the first time as one of Taste of Pata suppliers, Logan Soole from Air New Zealand, shared his thoughts: “What a fantastic experience bringing the travel industry together in one place. I loved that the agents were able to sample offerings from all the targeted regions and discover what makes each destination unique. The calibre of agents was extremely high, with a broad mix in attendance and plenty of valuable questions being asked, which is so important. The choice of venue was excellent, with plenty of space for networking and delicious food as well. I’ll definitely be back, it’s already in my calendar!” Additionally, agents had the chance to win big on the night with lots of prize giveaways from luxury hotel stays and shopping vouchers to goody bags, chocolates and lots of bubbles and beer! Pata’s calendar of events continues this month with roadshow training events in Belfast (16 September 2025) and Dublin (17 September 2025). *TASTE of PATA 2025 was held at The Dilly, 21 Piccadilly, London W1J 0BH
13 Aug 25
Partner News
PATA Roadshow Events This September
Next month, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland, hits the road with ...Read more
PATA Roadshow Events This September - News & announcements

Next month, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland, hits the road with a series of training evenings in Belfast, Dublin and London, bringing a strong line-up of Pacific Asia suppliers directly to travel agents. Training Dates & Venues:

PATA Roadshow Belfast, 16 September Clayton Hotel Belfast, 22-26 Ormeau Ave, Belfast BT2 8HS

PATA Roadshow Dublin, 17 September Herbert Park Hotel and Park Residence, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

PATA Indochina Roadshow London, 24 September Cabana Covent Garden, 7 St Giles High St, London WC2H 8AB

Each event runs for four hours, from 17:30 to 21:30, and follows a speed-networking format. Travel agents can enjoy refreshments while suppliers rotate around the room, sharing product updates and insights. There are a mix of 18 suppliers involved, including:

TreeHouse Villas, Thailand

Outrigger Hotels and Resorts, Haad Tien Beach Resort

South Australia Tourism Commission

AdLib Hotels, Bliss Hoi An, ICE Travel Group

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Leisure Time Group NZ

Thai Airways

Bangkok Airways

Etihad Airways

S Hotels and Resorts

Heritance AARAH Maldives

Singapore Airlines

Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau

Far East Hospitality

Anand Collection

Wendy Wu Tours

Minor Group (Anantara, Avani & NH Hotels)

Hidden Doorways

Commenting on the upcoming PATA Roadshows, Chris Lee, Marketing & Events Manager of PATA UK & Ireland said: “These events are a great opportunity to meet a wide mix of destinations, tour operators, luxury hotels, and airlines - all in one evening. They’re designed to keep travel agents informed, inspired, and connected with everything the Pacific Asia region has to offer. Plus, there’ll be the chance for agents to take home some fantastic prizes, from luxury hotel stays to great giveaways and more!” Spaces are limited. Travel agents can register their place to attend for free HERE
21 May 25
Partner News
PATA Summer Roadshow Returns This July to London and Manchester PATA.org.uk
Get ready for the return of the PATA Summer Roadshow this July, bringing the ...Read more
PATA Summer Roadshow Returns This July to London and Manchester PATA.org.uk - News & announcements

Get ready for the return of the PATA Summer Roadshow this July, bringing the latest travel news inspiration from across the Pacific Asia region directly to UK travel agents. These exciting evening events are the perfect opportunity to connect with top destinations, luxury hotels, tour operators, and airlines. Roadshow dates and venues:

London - Wednesday, 02 July 2025 from 17:30 at Cabana Covent Garden, 7 St Giles High St, London WC2H 8AB

Manchester - Thursday, 03 July 2025 from 17:30 at Voco Hotel Manchester, 59 Portland Street, Manchester

Both events (17:30-21:30) will feature a speed-networking format with drinks and food. PATA suppliers will rotate around the room, providing updates about their products. In total there will be 14 suppliers, including:

NEW - Norse Atlantic Airways

Thai Airways

Bangkok Airways

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Tourism Board

Hong Kong Tourism Board

Taiwan Tourism

TreeHouse Villas, Thailand

The Residence Bintan, Indonesia

LJR Consultancy (luxury hotel representative for Thailand, Bali, Cambodia, Vietnam)

Kata Group, Thailand

RX Wellness Retreat, Bangkok, Thailand

Elephant Hills, Thailand

Aqua Expeditions

Commenting on the upcoming PATA Roadshow, Chris Lee, Marketing & Events Manager of PATA UK & Ireland said: “The roadshow is a great opportunity for agents to enjoy a fun night out whilst enhancing their product knowledge and networking with industry experts. We’re especially excited to be joined for the first time by Norse Air who are launching in Thailand later this year, offering affordable and efficient air travel options across Southeast Asia which is such good news!” And not forgetting, agents will have the chance to win some fabulous prizes from luxury stays to amazing gifts and more! Spaces are limited. Travel agents can register their place to attend for free HERE
26 Mar 25
Partner News
PATA Training Roadshow Success PATA.org.uk
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland are just back from their Training ...Read more
PATA Training Roadshow Success PATA.org.uk - News & announcements

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland are just back from their Training Roadshow around the UK, visiting travel agents in Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, and Birmingham. The PATA Roadshows are designed to offer travel agents the opportunity to discover the latest offerings from top destinations, luxury hotels, tours, and airlines across the Pacific Asia region. The recent PATA training roadshow visited travel agents around the UK on the following dates:

Glasgow PATA Roadshow, 10th March 2025

Newcastle PATA Roadshow, 11th March 2025

Manchester PATA Roadshow, 12 March 2025

Birmingham PATA Roadshow, 13th March 2025

Each of the evening events featured a speed-networking format with welcome drinks and food. PATA was joined by the following 22 Suppliers, which rotated around the room at each of the events, providing updates about their products:

RAKxa Wellness – Bangkok’s premier wellness retreat

LJR Consultancy – Representing luxury hotels globally

Tourism New Zealand

Shizhuoka, Japan

TreeHouse Villas, Thailand

Heritance AARAH – A breathtaking resort in the Maldives

Tourism Okinawa – Explore Japan’s tropical paradise

Journey Beyond – Unique travel experiences in Australia

Aqua Expeditions – Luxury river and yacht expeditions

Dusit Hotels & Resorts – Timeless Thai hospitality

Canopy Marketing – Specialists in luxury hotel representation

Thai Airways

Red Tree Representation – Promoting boutique hotels

Tourism Australia

Hong Kong Tourism Board

Japan National Tourism Organisation

Taiwan Tourism Board

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

Air New Zealand

The Pavilions Phuket

Tourism Fiji

Bangkok Airways

For upcoming PATA training visit www.pata.org.uk
16 Dec 24
Partner News
Pacific Asia Travel Association Reveals Their 2025 Pata Patterns Travel Trends Report
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland has released its 2025 PATA ...Read more
Pacific Asia Travel Association Reveals Their 2025 Pata Patterns Travel Trends Report - News & announcements

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland has released its 2025 PATA Patterns report, revealing key travel trends set to shape tourism across the Pacific Asia region. Insights were gathered from the organisation's network of tourist boards, tour operators, airlines, and hoteliers, offering travel agents valuable guidance on emerging opportunities for 2025. The trends provide insight into what is set to be popular and help guide travel agents on what to sell. There are lots of new and exciting hotel openings, airline news and tours on sale for 2025. The trends report also includes some great training tips on what is hot in the region including 20+ new tours and experiences, 8 new hotels and 9 new air routes. Commenting on the latest trends research, Chris Crampton, Chairman of PATA UK & Ireland Chapter said: “Pacific Asia is poised for a great year ahead, as 2025 travel trends bring an exciting mix of opportunities for agents. From new immersive wildlife experiences and cultural explorations to eco-friendly accommodations, travellers are embracing sustainability like never before. The appeal of screen-worthy film locations in particular is sparking wanderlust, while secondary holiday destinations are rising as are hidden gems for the adventurous. As we step into this promising year, the region’s rich diversity promises unforgettable journeys that cater to every traveller, creating new opportunities for discovery and connection. Exciting times are ahead!” Key Trends for 2025

Amazing Agents -Travel agents remain vital, navigating complex itineraries, sustainability concerns, and niche travel experiences. Their expertise ensures seamless, tailored journeys, making them indispensable in 2025. PATA underscores its commitment to travel agents with a packed calendar of events in 2025 to enhance their knowledge and support their efforts.

Away from the Crowds -Secondary destinations are growing in popularity as travellers seek personalised, crowd-free experiences. Tourism boards are promoting these areas to help reduce over-tourism and encourage tourism dispersal.

The Real Deal- Travellers are opting for more immersive, hyper-local experiences, moving away from generic, mass-market tours for more authentic experiences that focus on community.

The Sky’s the Limit -Expanded airline routes and restored capacity are reducing flight costs, making travel to the region more accessible.

5. Wildlife Awaits- Demand for wildlife-centric holidays is booming. Pacific Asia offers experiences like spotting Malayan Tigers in Malaysia, caring for elephants in Thailand, snorkeling with dugongs in Vietnam, or observing pandas in China.

Sustainability Seekers- Sustainable travel is increasingly prioritised, with travellers seeking eco-conscious options to reduce their carbon footprint.

Rooms with Roots- Hotels are embracing local culture and identity, offering unique designs that support communities and provide authentic experiences.

Set-Jetting - Film and TV-inspired travel is surging, with Pacific Asia becoming a sought-after destination for fans of screen locations.

Sporty Stays -Sports tourism continues to grow, driven by interest in major events across the region.
08 Feb 24
NEWS
PATA to ramp up travel agent training
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland plans to deliver even more training for ...Read more

PATA to ramp up travel agent training - News & announcements

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland plans to deliver even more training for its travel agent members in partnership with Travel Uni. Over the coming months, PATA plans to connect with more than 1,000 travel agents across the UK and Ireland as part of its biggest training programme in recent years. Kicking off the schedule of online and in-person training, is the return of PATAs 'Virtual Vacations'. The virtual online training concept is a series of virtual fam trips taking agents on a narrated online tour of a variety of hotels such as Dusit D2 Chiang Mai, Thailand, Jumeirah Bali, Outrigger Mauritius, Anantara Hoi An, Vietnam. It also covers attractions and tours including The Vietage (train) by Anantara, Nomad Archipelago Indonesia (cruises), Sunsail & The Moorings (boat charters) and more. The first PATA 'Virtual Vacation' will feature Asia (20 Feb 2024, 11:00-11:45), followed by Indian Ocean (22 Feb 2024, 11:00-11:45). PATA is also going on the road to meet agents across the UK, with their original roadshow concepts, in three cities: Birmingham PATA Roadshow, 11 March 2024 Manchester PATA Roadshow, 13 March 2024 Glasgow PATA Roadshow, 14 March 2024 Each roadshow will follow the format of a speed-networking event where travel agents will meet with 10+ suppliers from across the PATA region in short, 10-minute appointments. The evening will include food, drinks, networking and prizes up for grabs from luxury hotel stays to restaurant vouchers. Betsie Barr, Marketing & Events Manager for PATA UK & Ireland said: "Trade engagement is stronger than ever and we have some exciting plans to make PATA's events bigger and better this year.” “We've connected with a host of new suppliers from the Asia Pacific region that agents can meet at our roadshows this year." To register for any of the above PATA events: www.pata.org.uk/events

Related News Stories: Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Hong Kong Tourism Board Partner News
15 Aug 23
NEWS
PATA lauds Asia visa waivers
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), UK & Ireland hailed the Vietnam visa waiver announcement, which ...Read more

PATA lauds Asia visa waivers - News & announcements

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), UK & Ireland hailed the Vietnam visa waiver announcement, which this week came into effect. Longer-stay visas and visa waivers can have significant benefits in boosting tourism and attracting foreign investment, PATA Chairman Chris Crampton says. “It is great news that the Vietnamese authorities have extended their visa offerings including visa free travel increasing three-fold from 15 to 45 days. In addition, the Vietnam e-visa stay duration for the UK and other select countries increased from 30 to 90 days. It comes as airlift from the UK to Vietnam increases from October. David Kevan, Director of CHIC Locations, a PATA member, said: "The immediate advantage is that travellers are encouraged to stay longer.” “For us, Vietnam is largely sold as a multi centre touring destination,” “They often combine at least four places so they can now do it at a more leisurely pace." Thailand last year increased the visa free travel period from 30 to 45 days over peak season. This was also a positive step that boosted tourism and welcomed long stay travellers for winter sun, PATA says. Several other countries in the region have revised or extended visa free policies to attract more visitors. It includes New Zealand, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea. “More flexible visa options regionally boosts tourism by enhancing regional connectivity,” Crampton added. In more positive visa news, Australia recently increased the maximum age for their Working Holiday Visa from 30 to 35 years old. This potentially means 16 million more Brits could live and work in Australia.
21 Jul 23
NEWS
PATA UK & Ireland adds seven new members
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland has welcomed seven new members into the ...Read more

PATA UK & Ireland adds seven new members - News & announcements

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland has welcomed seven new members into the network. The new members are Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Hobbiton Tours, Alila Kothaifaru, Cara Hotels & Marketing, Tolani Hotels, Heritance AARAH, Maldives and Vivu Journeys. "This exciting development reflects the continuous growth of our organisation, and commitment to promoting Pacific Asia," said Chris Crampton, Chairman. "We extend a warm welcome to our new members, who represent various sectors of the industry.” Pinyada Thanturanond, Group Director of Sales at Tolani Hotels, said: PATA is a well-established and effective channel to reach out to many UK and Ireland travel trade members.” Annually, PATA hosts over 30 separate events throughout the UK and Ireland as well as offering exclusive benefits and discounts. PATA is also in talks with ‘several’ prospective new members, including a major Asian airline and tourism board. PATA has different types of memberships depending on the type of business. For travel agents, membership continues to be free.
18 Jun 23
NEWS
PATA adds Southeast Asia training roadshow
The Pacific Asia Travel Association UK & Ireland has expanded its training schedule, adding a ...Read more

PATA adds Southeast Asia training roadshow - News & announcements

The Pacific Asia Travel Association UK & Ireland has expanded its training schedule, adding a new South East Asia training roadshow. The new training roadshow visits travel agents in both London and Birmingham. It kicks off on 18 July 2023 with the Southeast Asia tourism Roadshow at Revolution Leadenhall in London. The following day it takes place at Revolucion de Cuba, Birmingham. Sponsored by Travel Uni, the roadshow events will give travel agents the chance to meet and train with PATA's partner hotels, tourist boards and tour operators. It is via speed-training sessions with time in the evening for networking and further contracting discussions. Both roadshows are aimed at product managers and frontline sales staff to learn more about new South East Asia tourism products and destinations. Matt McCausland, Account Director for PATA said: “This will enable attendees to learn and build connections with key hotels, tourist boards and products during a fun evening.” Suppliers joining PATA are Tourism Thailand, Hidden Doorways, Singapore Tourism Board, Samujana, Thailand, Outrigger Resorts, Malaysia Tourism Board, Akorn DMC and Pan Pacific Hotel Group. There will be food and drink and prizes up for grabs. They include three nights for two people at Samujana, Thailand, £100 All for One voucher from Malaysia Tourism Board and a one-night stay at Pan Pacific Orchard Singapore. Agents can register for the events by emailing info@pata.org.uk
19 May 23
NEWS
PATA agents see Japan travel boom
Japan is definitely back on the radar for UK travelers, say Pacific Asia Travel Association ...Read more

PATA agents see Japan travel boom - News & announcements

Japan is definitely back on the radar for UK travelers, say Pacific Asia Travel Association UK & Ireland agents. The latest 'PATA Polls' surveys revealed over half (53.85%) have seen an increase in enquiries and bookings for Japan since the beginning of May. Now travel to Japan is restriction free, a significant 76.92% of UK and Irish travel agents reported plans to proactively promote Japan holidays. Of countries selling best in the last few weeks, agents named New Zealand, Thailand, Vietnam,, Laos and Japan. Chairman of PATA UK & Ireland, Chris Crampton said: "We are so pleased so many Asia Pacific countries have lifted requirements.” “Sri Lanka and Maldives have also made a strong comeback as a popular honeymoon combination.”
27 Apr 23
NEWS
PATA agents report uptick in Asia travel bookings
PATA travel agents are seeing their business boom in early 2023. The latest Pacific Asia ...Read more

PATA agents report uptick in Asia travel bookings - News & announcements

PATA travel agents are seeing their business boom in early 2023. The latest Pacific Asia Travel Association 'PATA Polls' surveys show 70% of PATA's UK and Ireland agent network is reporting strong first quarter bookings for Asia travel. That is up more than 20%, year on year. Agents are reporting that travellers are keen to travel and show no signs of cutting back this year. Pacific Asia (42.86%) is outperforming other regions in terms of popularity, with the exception of Europe (61.9%). It is higher than Africa (19.05%), Middle East (28.57%) and the US (23.8%). The 2023 PATA Polls was more detailed and in-depth than ever before Within Pacific Asia, Thailand is receiving the most enquiries, cited by 61.9% of agents closely followed by Australia (57.14%). Other popular long-haul destinations included Singapore and Vietnam (both 33.33%), Sri Lanka (28.7%) and Maldives (23.81%).. “Luckily one of Pacific Asia's strongest selling points remains it's value for money,” said tour operator member, Alison Murphy of Elegant Resorts. “This is more evident than ever amidst rising costs not just at home but across other long-haul destinations.” The PATA Polls were conducted in April, focusing on the Peaks 2023 holiday booking period.
14 Oct 22
Partner News
More NEW Travel Agent Training From PATA
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland in partnership with Travel Uni has ...Read more
More NEW Travel Agent Training From PATA - News & announcements

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) UK & Ireland in partnership with Travel Uni has added even more training events for travel agents this Winter, including a new destination-based virtual roadshow. The upcoming training events calendar sees the return of PATA’s popular online quizzes and destination roadshows. First up is the organisation’s Indochina Roadshow Sponsored by Thien Minh Group (TMG) in London* on 20th October 2022, (6:00PM - 10:00PM). Commenting on the first of the winter training events, Matt McCausland, Account Director for PATA UK said: “We’re delighted to invite agents to join our upcoming Winter training programme. The Indochina Roadshow marks the first in the line up and also the return of our roadshows being in person! The last time the Indochina roadshow was organisedwas before the pandemic in 2019.” “This event is dedicated exclusively to the Indochina region and will give agents the chance to meet and network with hotels, tourist boards, DMCs, and rep companies from within the region, whilst enjoying food and drinks throughout the evening.” The evening will run as a speed-dating format where agents will have timed meetings with the below PATA suppliers to get an insight into some of Indochina's most exciting product: Thien Minh Group (TMG) Alma Resort Cam Ranh EXO Travel Vietnam Tourism Board Vinpearl Resorts Akorn Destination Management Visit Quang Nam Hidden Doorways There are several other agent training events coming up in the PATA winter calendar including, for the first time, a training roadshow dedicated to the Indian Ocean:

Thailand Online Quiz, 19 October 2022

Vietnam Online Quiz, 15 November 2022

Indian Ocean Virtual Roadshow, 30 November 2022 -NEW!

Australia Online Quiz, 01 December 2022

Agents interested in registering for any of PATAs training events listed above can sign up here