Asia Pacific Tourism Gains Strength with PATA and APOLA’s Powerful Partnership

At the Thailand Tourism Forum 2026 in Bangkok, a monumental partnership was forged between the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the Asia Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association (APOLA). This collaboration aims to propel the growth of the outdoor lodging or “glamping” sector, creating new avenues for sustainable tourism experiences. This announcement is expected to not only boost tourism in the region but also establish Asia Pacific as a leading force in responsible tourism worldwide.

A Milestone for Asia Pacific Tourism

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on January 22, 2026, between PATA’s CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and APOLA’s founding member Willem Niemeijer. The agreement signals a significant step towards promoting sustainable, nature-based tourism, a sector that has been experiencing rapid growth in the region.

The collaboration between PATA, one of Asia Pacific’s foremost tourism bodies, and APOLA, the go-to association for the outdoor lodging sector, will enhance cross-border cooperation and encourage the exchange of best practices. With outdoor lodging growing at an estimated rate of 11% annually, the partnership is timely and promises to transform the sector.

A Stronger Foundation for Growth

The partnership between PATA and APOLA is set to create a stronger foundation for international collaboration. Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of PATA, highlighted that the collaboration would lead to more effective exchanges of knowledge, research, and best practices among stakeholders. By pooling resources and expertise, both organizations will work together to advance responsible tourism across Asia Pacific. This could very well become a model for sustainable tourism practices globally.

The pandemic has accelerated the demand for nature-based experiences, particularly outdoor lodging options such as tented camps, yurts, treehouses, and cabins. According to Willem Niemeijer, the growing desire for these experiences aligns with the global trend towards more sustainable and eco-friendly travel choices. Niemeijer emphasized the importance of establishing standards for this rapidly expanding sector to ensure it maintains its commitment to sustainability and quality tourism.

An Increasing Demand for Nature-First Experiences

The demand for eco-conscious tourism options has skyrocketed in recent years. With travellers becoming more conscious of their environmental footprint, nature-based outdoor lodging has become increasingly popular. Glamping, which combines the charm of the outdoors with luxury amenities, is particularly appealing to tourists looking to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort.

Niemeijer stated that the sector has seen significant growth, particularly since the pandemic. More travellers are opting for secluded accommodations that allow them to experience nature while enjoying modern comforts. This shift in demand is opening new opportunities for tourism businesses in the Asia Pacific region. From remote beachside camps to mountain-top yurts, these unique accommodations are redefining what it means to enjoy nature.

A Partnership That Brings Value to Tourism Stakeholders

As part of the agreement, both organizations will offer reciprocal membership access, providing their members with complimentary benefits across both associations. This mutual access will allow members of PATA and APOLA to enjoy each other’s research, insights, and tourism trends. Such collaborative efforts are expected to provide greater access to global markets and strengthen the presence of the Asia Pacific outdoor lodging sector in the international tourism landscape.

The agreement also includes the promotion of mutual activities, including events, research contributions, and speaker engagements. This will further facilitate networking opportunities and knowledge-sharing, offering tourism businesses and stakeholders more chances to learn and grow. Both PATA and APOLA will encourage their members to attend and participate in key events, creating opportunities for growth and international recognition.

Shaping the Future of Responsible Tourism in Asia Pacific

This partnership will have a transformative impact on the tourism industry, especially for destinations that offer natural experiences. From the beaches of Thailand to the forests of Indonesia, Asia Pacific offers a wealth of natural beauty, perfect for glamping and outdoor lodging. By promoting sustainable tourism, the collaboration ensures that these destinations can thrive without compromising their ecosystems.

The collaboration also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry by encouraging responsible travel practices. Through this partnership, APOLA and PATA aim to raise awareness about the environmental and social benefits of responsible tourism, ensuring that future generations can experience Asia Pacific’s natural beauty in an eco-friendly manner.

What This Means for the Region’s Tourism Sector

The partnership is expected to increase the visibility of glamping and outdoor lodging as a viable, sustainable travel option. As more tourists seek nature-first accommodations, the tourism sector in Asia Pacific will be better equipped to meet their demands. By setting industry standards and offering valuable insights, the partnership will ensure that the sector remains not only sustainable but also innovative.

For countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines, this partnership could further solidify their position as leaders in eco-tourism and responsible travel. By promoting outdoor lodging options that are in harmony with nature, these countries can attract more eco-conscious travellers, boosting their tourism revenues while preserving the environment.

Paving the Way for Future Growth

As tourism rebounds from the effects of the pandemic, Asia Pacific is poised to become a global leader in sustainable and responsible tourism. The partnership between PATA and APOLA will be a key driver of this transformation. Through their combined efforts, the two organizations will contribute to the region’s goal of creating a sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits both local communities and international travellers.

This collaboration promises not only to shape the future of the glamping sector but also to redefine the region’s approach to tourism. By fostering innovation and excellence within the Asia Pacific outdoor lodging sector, PATA and APOLA are setting the stage for a more responsible and sustainable future in tourism.