A welcome dinner hosted by Palau Visitors Authority happened on Monday December 2nd at 2019 PATA Gold Award destination Airai Bai. This marked the beginning of Pacific Asia Travel Association Micronesia Chapter’s 3rd Tri-Annual Meeting.
In their mission statement PATA Micronesia Chapter aims “to assist in the development of our regional tourism industry with strategies that are environmentally sensitive, respect Micronesian cultures, adhere to high operational standards and provide opportunity for education, training, and gainful employment among the resident populations among the resident populations of our Micronesian membership. These goals will be accomplished through cohesive cooperation and active participation of all its members.”
Starting December 3rd to December 4th, PATA will participate in various meetings in regards to topics such as marketing, education, and membership with the purpose of upholding their mission statement. Additionally, they will also take part in clam planting in Melkeok with the intention of maintaining sustainability through safe practices.
PATA Micronesia Chapter is a three time, internationally recognized, award winning organization that is governed by an Executive Committee consisting of nine public sector members (representing the nine national state tourism offices in Micronesia), nine private sector members, airline representatives and the chapter’s officers compromising of a chairperson, vice-chairperson, secretary, and treasurer elected by the Executive Committee.
According to Stephanie Nakamura, PATA Micronesia Chapter Chairwoman “there are 96 entities with a 177 representatives. Palau has 13 members which include Sam’s Tours, UBDI Belau Tour, and Fish N Fins.” Finally, PATA Micronesia Chapter membership is open to any organization, business, or individual with an interest in development, marketing, and sale travel across the Micronesian region.