Bangkok--25 Apr--PATA Communications
Some 1,141 delegates and leaders representing all sectors of the travel and tourism industry in Asia Pacific have convened at the 55th PATA Annual Conference in Pattaya, Thailand, to discuss the theme, "Changing Lifestyles - New Opportunities."
Opening speakers said the convergence of economic, demographic and cultural trends would continue to revolutionise the travel industry.
In the Conference's opening keynote address , Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Executive Chairman for the Banyan Tree Group said: "The next decade or two will see more lifestyle changes than in the entire past century."
He identified three driving forces: ageing baby boomers, the rise of the urban middle class in China and India, "and the fact that travel aspirations are becoming almost a human need".
"Accelerating this process is technology - both travel-specific technology, such as the introduction of newer and cheaper aircraft, and even seemingly unrelated technologies."
He said the convergence of Internet, telephone and television in a digital "triple play" and the increasing power of technology would continue to drive change in ways we cannot yet imagine.
"For example, the velocity of information transfer, the 'death of distance' and the ability to reach out to consumers all over the globe - all consequences of digital convergence -- is empowering everyone in the travel industry," he said.
Mr Ho added: "On the other hand, our customers are also empowered with a plethora of choice and information. The consumer experience, the tourist experience, now begins long before they get on the plane."
The Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr Suwat Liptapanlop, told delegates in the Conference's inaugural address that Thailand was fully committed to expanding its tourism industry based on the principles of innovation, the enhancement of human skills and collaboration with all stakeholders.
"We believe that sharing experience and best practices, especially in the areas of agricultural development, public health, and tourism will close the economic gap between countries in the region," he said.
The Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ms Juthamas Siriwan, told delegates that Thailand had launched a series of special events for visitors throughout the year to celebrate the 60th anniversary of His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej's accession to the throne.
The events are being promoted as "Thailand Grand Invitation 2006".
John Koldowski, Director of PATA's Strategic Intelligence Centre put the speakers' remarks in context. "Over 330 million international visitor arrivals visited Asia Pacific destinations in 2005, the second consecutive year a new record has been reached.
"Much of the growth in demand is being fuelled by strong national economic performances in Asia Pacific, deregulation in aviation, and the growth in low cost carriers and special price deals, many of them booked on the Internet."
The 55th PATA Annual Conference runs until April 26.
Editor's note: speeches, photographs and content from the 55th PATA Annual Conference are available at www.PATA.org
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