Pata sets out likely trends for region in new report

The UK & Ireland chapter of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (Pata) has identified 11 key trends that it expects to shape travel in the region in 2021 and beyond.

Its first Pata Travel Patterns report follows a survey of its 36 members, destination management organisations, tour operators and hoteliers.

Multigenerational holidays are predicted to grow as families that have been forced to spend time apart seek to create memories together.

A rise in destination weddings and honeymoons is also predicted, due to cancellations in 2020. Chris Lee, head of marketing for the Tourism Authority of Thailand, a Pata member, said the country offered "amazing value for money for honeymoons".

The report flagged health and safety as a key concern among holidaymakers in the Covid recovery, with a greater expectation of travel companies' precautions. But it noted that the Asia Pacific region, has "acted very swiftly" to launch and implement Covid-19 protocols.