Some 70% of Pata’s agent network in the UK and Ireland reported strong first-quarter bookings according to the latest round of Pata Polls, conducted in April.

"Travel agents are reporting that travellers are keen to travel and show no signs of cutting back this year," said Pata UK and Ireland chair Chris Crampton after agent respondents confirmed a more than 20% year-on-year increase in bookings for the region.

Asked how Pacific Asia ranked compared with other regions, respondents placed it second – ahead of the Middle East, US and Africa – and behind only Europe in terms of popularity.

Nearly two-thirds of respondents said their top Pacific Asia destination by enquiry numbers was Thailand, followed by Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Around 20% of respondents said their clients were booking to get away this summer, with nearly 50% reporting demand for the 2023/24 winter season. A further 20% of respondents said their clients were planning to travel in summer 2024.

The cost of living squeeze is continuing to pose challenges for agents though, with more than a third (38%) of respondents reporting clients raising concerns about being able to cover essential costs.

Two-thirds of respondents (67%), meanwhile, ranked higher travel costs as the main factor impacting holiday bookings, followed by hotel and flight availability.

Value focus

Alison Murphy, product manager at Pata tour operator member Elegant Resorts, said it was important agents promote Pacific Asia’s strong value proposition.

"Luckily, one of Pacific Asia’s strongest selling points remains it’s value for money, certainly for hotels, experiences and eating out," said Murphy. "And this is more evident than ever amid rising costs, not just at home but across other long-haul destinations.

"Hopefully the result of this will be that guests who are now visiting Pacific Asia for the first time will come home realising good value is not a substitute for good quality and the amazing product, service levels, cuisine and experiences available throughout Pacific Asia, which rivals that of any luxury travel destination."

John Coles from Pata agent member Kew Bridge Travel continued: "After three years of lockdown, it’s difficult to return to pre-Covid service levels. Do not assume the capacity will be available for ‘last-minute’ holidays."

Crampton added: “The Pata Polls data suggests a strong year for the region even in the face of diverse challenges including the economic situation.

"We look forward to further good news as flight capacity continues to return, as already witnessed by Thailand and Australia, both of which are already back to 80% pre-pandemic international flight arrivals.”