Pata introduces virtual fam trips to training programme

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (Pata) UK & Ireland has introduced online fam trips to its training programme for travel agents this winter.

Held in partnership with Travel Uni, the series of three Virtual Vacations will start on October 31, taking place from 11-11.45am.

The online trips will showcase hotels such as Dusit Thani Singapore, Outrigger Thailand, Alila Maldives and attractions and tours including Sydney Opera House.

The first will feature southeast Asia (October 31), followed by Australasia and Pacific (November 1) and Indian Ocean (November 2).

Later next month, Pata will hold three roadshows for agents in London, Northern Ireland and Ireland.

The London roadshow will showcase the Indian Ocean on November 23, then the others will be in Dublin (November 29) and Belfast (November 30).

Each roadshow will follow the format of a speed-networking event where travel agents will meet with 10 or more suppliers from across the Pata region in short, 10-minute appointments.

The evening will include food, drinks and networking. Prizes to be won include a three-night stay in the Maldives (London) and two trips to Thailand (Belfast and Dublin).

Betsie Barr, marketing and events manager for Pata UK and Ireland said: “We are delighted to launch a new and exciting style of training event for travel agents.

“Starting this month, our brand-new Virtual Vacations will take them on a journey to discover some of Pata’s hidden gems via guided video tours.

“These events give agents the opportunity to learn about the Pacific Asia region directly from a range of quality suppliers.”