In an exciting development for the global travel and tourism industry, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the return of its esteemed PATA Destination Marketing Forum (PDMF) to Thailand. Scheduled for November 12-14, 2024, at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin in Cha-Am, Phetchaburi Province, the event is poised to set a new standard for sustainable tourism practices and destination marketing.
Co-hosted by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Phetchaburi City, and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), and with pivotal support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), PDMF 2024 is expected to attract hundreds of delegates who are eager to delve into the intricacies of destination marketing and sustainable tourism development.
PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid expressed enthusiasm about the event’s return to Thailand. This country has previously hosted the forum in various cities, including Khon Kaen, Pattaya, and Songkhla. “Our commitment to advancing travel and tourism in the Asia-Pacific region is reaffirmed with each edition of this forum. We are thrilled to collaborate again with our long-standing partners and the city of Phetchaburi to create a milestone event,” stated Hamid. The conference will feature an extensive program to provide rich learning experiences and exceptional networking opportunities.
Echoing this sentiment, Phetchaburi Governor Nuttachai Numpoonsuksun highlighted the unique charm of the host location. “Phetchaburi is not only a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy but also a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders, including three palaces from different eras of Thai royalty and the enchanting Kaeng Krachan National Park,” Governor Numpoonsuksun noted. He emphasized that participants would see the province’s rich heritage and vibrant community initiatives firsthand.
The event includes a one-day immersive destination experience allowing participants to explore Phetchaburi’s scenic landscapes and cultural assets, followed by a one-day forum featuring expert panels and workshops. This blend of experiential learning and formal education is designed to equip attendees with the tools to foster sustainable tourism growth in their respective locales.
TCEB President, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, articulated the strategic importance of the forum for Phetchaburi’s growth in the MICE sector. “By hosting PDMF 2024, we aim to showcase Phetchaburi as a model for integrating cultural richness with tourism and MICE activities, ultimately benefiting local communities and the broader tourism ecosystem,” said Mr Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya.
The forum’s commitment to sustainability is a cornerstone, as underscored by Gp. Capt. Athikun Kongmee, Director-General of DASTA. “Our collaboration with PATA and other stakeholders reflects our dedication to promoting sustainable tourism that respects and preserves our cultural and natural resources,” he stated. This includes efforts to maintain Phetchaburi’s status as a UNESCO Creative Cities Network member and previous recognitions like the PATA Gold Award for cultural tourism.
Moreover, PATA’s proactive approach to environmental responsibility is evident in the forum’s net zero carbon event status. A nominal fee will be charged for carbon offsetting, underscoring the association’s commitment to mitigating the event’s environmental impact.
As the forum approaches, anticipation builds among industry professionals and stakeholders who recognize the importance of innovative and responsible tourism strategies. PDMF 2024 promises to be a pivotal event for those involved and a beacon of inspiration and action for the global tourism industry.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach
