Successful PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 Held in Phetchaburi, Thailand
Cha Am, Phetchaburi, November 14, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / The PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024 recently concluded in Phetchaburi, Thailand, from November 12 to 14, attracting over 300 tourism leaders and stakeholders. Held at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin Hotel, this year’s event marked the fourth time Thailand has hosted this significant forum, which focuses on enhancing the country’s profile as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).
A highlight of the forum was the extensive technical tours designed to immerse participants in Phetchaburi’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. Attendees explored three eco-tourism routes: the Sweet and Sour Tastes of Phetchaburi, Artisans and Delicacies, and Biodiversity at Traditional Salt Fields. These tours aimed to showcase Phetchaburi’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, emphasizing its unique culinary practices that incorporate locally sourced ingredients. The routes were developed in collaboration with local organizations such as the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association (TEATA).
The conference day featured a comprehensive agenda that included various sessions focused on sustainable tourism, community engagement, and cultural heritage:
The forum opened with a warm welcome message from Mr. Peter Semone, Chair, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) that set the stage for an engaging event. Key representatives from the following organization addresses the participants as well, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President, Thailand Conventiona nd Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Deputy Governor for International Martketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Capt. Athikun Kongmee, Director General, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), and Ms. Wanpen Mungsri, Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi Province emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism practices and Phetchaburi’s potential as a MICE destination.
During the conference, a variety of key topics were explored, including the significant impact of catering to niche travelers on local economies. Discussions centered around community-driven sustainability, emphasizing strategies for integrating community needs into tourism development. The sessions also highlighted Phetchaburi’s unique culinary offerings, particularly its salty dishes, while addressing the complex relationship between local communities and tourism. The session by Mr. Arnon Wongchiang, Beverage Instructor, The Faculty of Management Science, Silpakorn University attracted a lot of attention as participants could taste the cocktails prepared with ingredients from Petchaburi Province. An interactive workshop focused on finding solutions to balance community interests with tourism growth, alongside initiatives aimed at encouraging community stewardship of coral reefs.
In the afternoon, participants delved into the role of music in enhancing cultural tourism and examined how food can serve as a central attraction for visitors. The importance of maintaining food safety while preserving traditional street food practices was also a critical topic. Additionally, discussions highlighted the significance of legacy in developing MICE destinations and offered a forward-looking perspective on emerging trends that could reshape travel experiences. These sessions fostered valuable insights into the intersection of culture, community, and sustainable tourism practices.
The forum’s theme, “Authentic Prosperous Journeys: Nurturing Culture, Culinary Delights, and Community Wisdom,” underscored the importance of leveraging local culture for sustainable tourism growth. Participants engaged in discussions about responsible tourism practices that benefit local communities while preserving cultural integrity. The event provided a platform for networking and knowledge sharing among industry professionals, aiming to foster long-term economic benefits for Phetchaburi and surrounding areas.
The successful hosting of the PATA Destination Marketing Forum not only showcased Phetchaburi’s potential as a MICE destination but also highlighted its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Phetchaburi is poised to attract more international attention, further enhancing its reputation as a vibrant hub for cultural tourism in Thailand.