Online Education and Programs

As we persevere and recover from our challenges, let’s commit to emerging better, stronger, and smarter! Despite being physically distanced, there remain many opportunities to learn and connect with our industry and island partners.

Is your organization hosting a program that our membership needs to hear? Submit your landing page link to
David Mark: [email protected].

  • The opinions and content of these programs are not endorsed by the Pacific Asia Travel Association, it’s chapters or affiliates.
  • Vendor promoted seminars are marked accordingly and may require email registration and contain product offerings.

FEATURED PRESENTATION:

Friday, December 3, 2021 from 7:30am-9:30am Halekulani, Ballroom I and II

PATA Hawai‘i and TTRA – Hawai‘i Present: 2021 Industry Holiday Breakfast

It’s our annual Holiday event! The Hawaii Chapters of PATA & TTRA invite you to our Industry Holiday Breakfast and Silent Auction at Halekulani. This is a great opportunity to get in the spirit of the holidays and network with industry peers.

We’re pleased to once again welcome Jessica Lani Rich, President and Director of VASH, the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii. VASH continues to provide much-needed services to our visitors in need. 100% of our Virtual Auction goes directly to VASH, which is dedicated to helping visitors who have been victims of crime or other adversities while visiting Hawaii. Bidding starts Wednesday, November 19, 2021 and concludes Friday, December 3, 2021 at the event. Items will be added throughout the bidding period, so check back often!

Charity Auction Supporting VASH – BID NOW!

We also welcome keynote speaker Jason Ho‘opa‘i from Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative, a Mālama Hawai‘i Program partner.  Learn more about HLRI’s program, their work with the community, experience with Mālama Hawai‘i Program, and the importance of giving back.

We look forward to hearing from our friends at TIM International — represented by Lee-Ann Choy and PATA Hawai‘i scholarship winner Jaycie Tanaka — and Dr. Dave Evans from Kapi‘olani Community College HOST Program.

NOTICE: Mandate required pandemic precautions must be followed for entrance to the event.


Programs:

2021 Annual Airports Update
Tuesday, September 28, 2021
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Zoom Webinar

Join us to hear Ross Higashi, Deputy Director of Department of Transportation, Airports Division share the latest updates for airports statewide, including the Hawai‘i Airports Modernization Program.  The Hawai’i Airports Modernization Program is part of Governor Ige’s continuing work on airport improvements throughout the State.  These needed airport developments will not only enhance the traveler experience and improve efficiency and safety, but also create jobs and stimulate the State’s economy.  The ultimate goal is to continue to improve our airports over the next decade, so it can meet the future needs of our residents and visitors alike.

Deputy Director Hagashi’s responsibilities include the oversight of numerous modernization and facility improvement projects representing billions of dollars in construction, an annual operational budget of more than $500 million, and the financial stability of the Airports Division.  He brings more than 30 years of experience and service in state government, serving as Fiscal Management Officer for the Airports Division since 2007, until being named Deputy Director in May 2014.

Agenda:
12:00 – Welcome
12:05 – Ross Higashi, Deputy Director State of Hawaii Department of Transportation, Airports Division
1:00 – Q&A


Virtual Destination Marketing Forum
Nov 24, 2021 09:00 PM – Nov 26, 2021 5:00 PM (GMT+8)

As DMOs across the globe continue to rebrand from destination marketing organisations to embrace the importance of being destination management organisations, the Virtual PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2021 celebrates this trend with the theme of ‘Experiences that Inspire.’ It builds upon the global movement towards purposeful travel, wherein visitors share a vision of doing more for themselves and others.

This event invites industry professionals and visitors to continue taking ownership of their travel experiences and create bigger impacts for their host destinations and communities during their personal journeys for self-development. By helping visitors stay informed of their choices and actions, destinations can help cultivate the next generation of inspired travelers for the post-pandemic era.


Virtual Rural Sustainable Development Conference
Sep 24, 2021 09:00 PM (HST)

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to focus the many vulnerabilities of the travel and tourism industry, particularly highlighting the strong correlation between rural tourism and sustainable development. The shift in travel behavior towards rural tourism has created new opportunities for tourism stakeholders to rethink development in a way that is more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient.

By emphasizing rural tourism and sustainable development, the industry can help ensure a fairer distribution of the benefits from tourism, including job creation, the protection of natural resources, infrastructure development and the empowerment of local communities. This in turn will allow rural areas to become more accessible and provide a higher quality of life for local communities and the overall destination.

The Virtual Rural Tourism and Sustainable Development Conference is a digital half-day event that brings together thought leaders and tourism stakeholders from across the globe. Comprised of expert speaker sessions and destination experiences from Huzhou and Wuxing District, China – The Town of World Rural Tourism, this event will address important issues within the responsible development of rural tourism.


Wellness and Tourism
Wednesday, October 20, 2021 – Friday, October 22, 2021 (ICT)

Shaped by new consumer priorities since the pandemic, wellness and luxury tourism are on the rise. These two segments of leisure travel overlap in a number of ways – this can be seen in the growing demand for boutique travel experiences offered by high-end hospitality brands. The prioritization of health and wellbeing show that luxury travelers want wellness experiences at the core of their getaways – and operators without these offerings may be missing out.

While not every wellness story comes with a luxury angle, the feeling of rejuvenation is a prized target for all levels of the market. From stress reduction at a secluded destination to active workouts with a group, these new trends bring along exciting opportunities for travel brands, inclusive of all price points.

Virtual PATA Travel Mart Mini-Series 2021: Wellness and Luxury Tourism builds upon the format of PATA Travel Mart, one of the longest-running travel trade shows in Asia Pacific. This targeted version offers a deeper look at specialised product offerings and Forum topics to help the global community prepare for recovery after COVID-19.

Buyers and sellers can register here. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and partners, we are able to support the travel industry with free seller booths for PATA International Members!


Friday, June 25, 2021
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Zoom Webinar

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all sectors of Hawaii’s tourism industry.  Specifically, Hawai’i’s restaurants, banquets, special events, and weddings sectors have been subject to changing State and County rules during the pandemic and continue to operate with limited capacity and COVID-19-related constraints.  This segment has faced additional challenges due to its dependence as well as collaboration with other tourism sectors such as lodging, transportation, and air service.  These impacts have been equally felt by the smallest of businesses to the largest of suppliers and everyone in between. Please join us for our conversation with four industry leaders to discuss topics such as the impacts and opportunities of the pandemic; managing capacity, adjusting for the new county Tiers, impact on the local market, what the future looks like, and any questions or topics you bring to the panel.

Moderator: Josette Murai, Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau (HVCB), Convention Services Manager

Panel:

  • 53 By the Sea – Tony Castillo, General Manager
  • Easley Designs / Love and Honesty – Jill Easley, Owner
  • Marriott Waikiki Complex – Stuart Y. Kotake, Associate Director of Catering & Event Management
  • Hawaii Restaurant Association – Greg Maples, Chairman

Emerging Stronger, How Sustainability Leads to Profitability
Wednesday, July 23, 2021 10pm HST

As the travel and tourism industry emerge stronger from the pandemic, the industry must re-evolve, rebuild and re-prioritize in order to work towards a sustainable and responsible recovery, in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2030. The slowdown of the Pandemic has provided the industry an opportunity to relook into their sustainability efforts as research has also shown that focusing on sustainability is not only a responsible practice but can lead to greater profitability.

Join us on this webinar as we examine the issues from the industry experts as they share their insights and relevant case studies on how sustainability can lead to profitability.


2018 Airline Update

Trans-Pacific Air Service Update

Friday, May 21, 2021
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Zoom Webinar

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all sectors of Hawaii’s tourism industry. Airlines bringing visitors from the U.S. mainland to the four main Hawaiian Islands are among the hardest hit sectors. Please join us for our conversation with four of these  carriers to discuss topics such as the impacts and opportunities of the pandemic; what their networks look like post-pandemic – new routes and connectivity opportunities for passengers; how they continue to maintain the new health and safety enhancements that were implemented during the pandemic; and any questions or topics you bring to the panel. 

Moderator: Jeffery Eslinger, Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau (HVCB), Senior Director, Hawaii Market Insights

Panel:

  • Southwest Airlines – Kelly Knox, Outreach Lead, West Coast
  • Alaska Airlines – Daniel Chun, Director of Sales, Community & Public Relations – Hawai‘i
  • United Airlines – Ernie Young, Hawaii General Manager
  • Hawaiian Airlines – Leimomi Hall, Director Sales – North America

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Hybrid Travel Mart & Conference
Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – Thursday, May 27, 2021 (ICT)

Asia Pacific’s leading travel trade event dedicated to the adventure travel industry is going hybrid this year! As travel restrictions ease and visitors start exploring the world again, the role of well informed travel agents and experts will be more important than ever. Join Hybrid ATCM 2021 to stay on top of the ever-evolving trends and discover the latest in unique and sustainable adventure products.

Conference
Explore the nuances, trends, and dynamics of adventure travel and responsible tourism at the event’s conference. Scheduled across two half-days for your convenience, the programme brings together international experts at the forefront of the adventure travel industry to discuss the sector’s issues and opportunities. Part of the conference will be delivered in a hybrid format in the Philippines and broadcast for all delegates to attend virtually.

Travel Mart
Meet adventure product buyers and sellers from across the world, including state, regional, and local tourism agencies from established and emerging markets, unique accommodation providers, and tour operators. Taking place on the virtual platform, buyers and sellers will be matched through appointment requests by appropriate timezones.


Friday, April 30, 2021
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Zoom Webinar

As Hawai‘i’s visitor industry starts to show renewed signs of life, the need for ground transportation is on the rise.  Will a shortage in rental car inventory threatens to cause a slow down on the road to recovery? With the U.S. market leading the recovery and with 70 to 80 percent of U.S. visitors typically renting cars, are other viable transportation alternatives available to visitors as they start to reappear in the Islands? Find out what our line-up of experts from Charley’s Taxi, Roberts Hawai‘i and rental car industry experts. These insights will help you better navigate uncertainty in the year ahead!

Moderator:
Janet Kuwahara, Maui Visitor and Convention Bureau

Speakers:
Dale Evans, CEO, Charley’s Taxi and Limousine
Joann Erban, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Roberts Hawaii
Kristine Wada, Marketing Manager, HUI
Seward ‘Akahi, General Manager, Hertz

PATA Members                          FREE
TTRA Member                            FREE
Non-Members                            $20.00

SPEAKERS and Registration


PATA Annual Summit

Tourism as a Positive Catalyst
Tuesday, April 27, 10am – 11am (GMT+7)

We’re kickstarting the PATA Youth Symposium with a panel discussion that pits dreams vs. reality, and the battle for the future of tourism. Join us on the first day of the PATA Annual Summit 2021.

Many youths join the travel industry because of a deep seated love for travel, but there is also a firm belief within the PATA Youth community that this industry has significant potential to become a positive catalyst for sustainable and responsible development. What must we do to ensure that we do not repeat the mistakes of the past as we move forward in the post COVID-19 future? How do the youth envision the future of travel? How realistic are our dreams to rebuild the industry in a more sustainable and more responsible manner? Join us to explore the answers and connect.


PATA Annual Summit

Tuesday, April 27 2021 – Thursday, April 29, 2021
ICT/ GMT +7

If the industry must adapt and evolve, what new models should we consider? What must be done to ensure the responsible and sustainable revival of the travel and tourism industry? Join conference session, ‘New Models of Tourism,’ moderated by Raini Hamdi from Skift on the first day of PATA Annual Summit, 1 PM – 2 PM ICT/  GMT+7, to hear from Alain Dupeyras, OECD; John Perrottet, The World Bank; and Lauren Uppink Calderwood, World Economic Forum (WEF).


Rebuilding Tourism: Debate on the benefits and risks of the Health Passport

Wednesday, March 17, 2021
10:00 p.m.
Zoom Webinar

The Health Passport is a hot topic at the moment and highly relevant, especially for our tourism industry. Therefore we at Skål International and PATA International have promoted this insightful webinar to provide first-hand information to all members.

Speakers

Dr. Mario Hardy, Chief Executive Officer, PATA

Dr. Hardy is the Chief Executive Officer of the Pacific Asia Travel Association since 2014. He has over 30 years of experience in corporate development and investment in technology, coupled with several leadership roles with non-profit organizations. He is also the Managing Director of Private Family Office MAP2 | Ventures, an investment fund with a broad portfolio of technology-centric businesses in the field of FinTech, Artificial Intelligence, and GreenTech. He received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from Capilano University in 2016 for his philanthropic work in Cambodia, where he helped develop a school for underprivileged children and his support in the development of a Community Based Tourism project in Vietnam.

Eduardo Santander – Executive Director at European Travel Commission

Eduardo Santander is the Executive Director of the European Travel Commission (ETC), an association of National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) created in 1948 to promote Europe as a tourism destination. In this role, Mr Santander steers ETC’s activities aimed at building the value of tourism for the countries of Europe through cooperation in sharing best practices, market intelligence and promotion. Under his leadership, ETC has extended its membership to private organizations and academia with the launch of the Associate Membership Programme and developed a long-term strategic partnership with the European Commission for the promotion of Destination Europe in long-haul markets. Mr Santander has over 15 years of experience in tourism marketing, brand development, business consulting, advocacy and public affairs gained in diverse private companies and public institutions from the tourism and hospitality sector.


Wednesday, February 3 2021
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Zoom Webinar

After the unprecedented pandemic and politics of 2020, 2021 offers a fresh start, a real reset for our islands travel and tourism industry. Planning for recovery needs hard data and industry experts to guide the way. Join us for our annual Economic Forum and reconnect with the people and priorities that will lead the way in filling our rooms, restaurants and revenue in the new year.

AGENDA
Session I: Economic Outlook  
Moderator: Chris Kam, OmniTrak Group
Eugene Tian, Ph.D., Chief Economist, Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism
Amelia Lim, Managing Director, CBRE Hotels Advisory/Capital Markets
Paul Brewbaker, Principal, TZ Economics
Session II:  GPS Location Data
Evan Saunders – Vice President, Tourism and Hospitality, UberMedia
Evelina Giang – Director of Analytics and Data Solutions, UberMedia
Session III: Industry Update
Toni Marie Davis – Executive Director, Activities & Attractions Association of Hawai‘i (A3H)
Michael Tam – CEO, Martin & MacArthur
Denise Yamaguchi – CEO, Hawaiʻi Ag & Culinary Alliance (dba Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival). Executive Director, Hawaiʻi Agricultural Foundation

PATA Members                          FREE
TTRA Member                            FREE
Non-Members                            $20.00

SPEAKERS and AGENDA


2021 PATA Hawaii Student Forum

Wednesday February 3, 2021
2:00PM – 4:00PM
ZOOM Webinar

Career insights from industry experts!

The Pacific Asia Travel Association Hawaii Chapter Annual Student Forum is an extension of the 2021 Outlook and Economic Forecast Forum, providing students majoring in hospitality, tourism, or transportation management an opportunity to obtain valuable career advice from a panel of successful industry professionals. Students and faculty from Hawaii’s higher education programs are invited to participate!

Speakers and Agenda


December 4, 2020, 8:30am – 10:00am

It’s our annual Holiday event but this time we are going VIRTUAL! The Hawaii Chapters of PATA & TTRA invite you to our 2020 Industry Holiday Event and Online Auction via Zoom. This is a great opportunity to get in the spirit of the holidays for giving and to network with your industry peers.

This year we are again featuring the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawai‘i (VASH) as the benefactor of our online auction, and will hear from Jessica Lani Rich, President and Director of VASH.  VASH continues to provide much-needed services to our visitors in need.  100% of our Online Auction goes directly to VASH.  Bidding starts Friday, December 4, 2020 and ends Sunday, December 13, 2020.  Items will be added throughout the bidding period. 

We will also hear from our friends at TIM International represented by Lee-Ann Choy and members of the UH STIM Satellite Chapter. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to also hear from guest speakers Dr. Kaiwipunikauikawēkiu Punihei Lipe and Matthew Kamakani Lynch.


December 2, 10pm HST

Throughout 2020 and moving into 2021, PATA has launched a series of initiatives to assist our members to respond, manage and recover from the current situation, in collaboration with our members and industry partners.

To close off this unprecedented year, we warmly invite our online community to join us for a year-end wrap-up webinar as PATA continues to stand by our members and industry colleagues during these trying times. 

PATA CEO Dr Mario Hardy will be speaking live at this session to recap these initiatives as well as provide an overview of the latest membership benefits moving into 2021 including the PATA eLearning Platform and PATA Marketplace

He will also open his office ‘door’ for 30 minutes to answer anything related to travel and tourism during an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session. You can either submit your questions when you register for the webinar or through our Instagram Story @pata_hq from November 30th onwards. See you there!

Speaker

Dr. Mario Hardy_PATA.png

Dr. Mario Hardy, Chief Executive Officer, PATA

Dr. Hardy was appointed CEO of PATA in November 2014 and is also the past Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PATA Foundation, a nonprofit organisation with a focus on the protection of the environment, the conservation of culture and heritage, and support for education. He has 30 years of experience in specialised aviation businesses focusing on data analytics and technology, coupled with several corporate leadership capacities. Read More

Host

Roong.png

Roong Tepkaew, Manager – Membership Engagement, PATA

Roong Tepkaew is the Manager for Membership Engagement for the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). Together with the director of membership, she is taking care of the PATA member community of over 800 members globally. She is responsible for member engagement projects and activities including the Member Directory, member communication etc. In 2019 she launched the PATA Spotlight webinar series, a platform where PATA members can share their expertise with tourism professionals and entrepreneurs across the globe.
Register Now


PATA International
“The Future of Tourism” Interview Series
October 14, 2020

In this series of audio interviews, PATA explores “The Future of Tourism” through multiple, interrelated sustainability challenges that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis.


PATA Hawaii Chapter
Re-Imagining Tourism: Where are we and Where are we going?

October 14, 2020 11:00 a.m. – 12:00p.m. HST

“The New Normal” We’ve all heard the saying but what does it mean for Hawaii’s tourist industry and how will it affect other related industries. Join PATA Hawaii Chapter to find out about our current market situation, what the marketing plan looks like and the vision for the future. 

Presenters:

  • John De Fries: President & CEO Hawaii Tourism Authority
  • Pattie Herman, VP Marketing & Product Development Hawaii Tourism Authority
  • Jay Talwar: CMO Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau 

Moderator: Jennifer Chun, Director of Travel Research Hawaii Tourism Authority


PATA International Spotlight
Traveling at the Speed of Culture: How Do We Keep Up?
October 14, 2020 10p.m. HST

Vendor Promoted

At a time when borders are closed and travelers are asked to stay home, tourism brands are conflicted as to how they can remain relevant to their customers. One way to address this is through an effective marketing and communications strategy. But one of the biggest challenges we have in the 21st century in terms of the communications environment is bringing together the world of policy-making and of public affairs with the world of storytelling and creative development. Therefore, how do we make sure that these two crucial factors of effective marketing communications blend seamlessly and convey a proposition that our customers cannot not refuse?

Speakers:

Elizabeth Linder, Executive Director, Beautiful Destinations: Elizabeth Linder is currently the Executive Director at Beautiful Destinations, leading the company’s government relations and nation branding division. Elizabeth is at the forefront of advising Ministers, senior government officials, and think tanks such as Chatham House, where she is a Senior Fellow, on how they can help unlock opportunities especially at this difficult time.

Roong Tepkaew, Manager – Membership Engagement, PATA: Roong Tepkaew is the Manager for Membership Engagement for the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). Together with the director of membership, she is taking care of the PATA member community of over 800 members globally. She is responsible for member engagement projects and activities including the Member Directory, member communication etc. In 2019 she launched the PATA Spotlight webinar series, a platform where PATA members can share their expertise with tourism professionals and entrepreneurs across the globe.


PATA International
PATA 101: Your Membership Benefits & Meet PATA Face of the Future 2020

September 30, 2020 10:00 pm HST

During the webinar you will hear from Ms. Sarudha Netsawang, Director-Membership Relations at PATA on how you can navigate the numerous benefits and services available at your fingertips.  

· What are the benefits of my PATA membership?
· How can PATA help me build my business?
· Where can I meet other PATA members?
· Why should I attend a PATA event?
· Who can I speak to at PATA?
· How do I access PATA publications?

PATA Face of the Future is part of PATA activities, the Association is dedicated to human capital development (HCD) across the broad spectrum of the travel and tourism industry. The primary focus of the Association’s HCD programme is the development of the ‘Young Tourism Professional’ (YTP).

In this webinar, you will also have a chance to meet with Mr. Suresh Singh Budal, PATA Face of the Future 2020.
Mr. Suresh will share with you about how he got voted to recognition as PATA Face of the Future 2020. What he has learned and the opportunities that have come with this.

About Mr. Suresh Singh Budal is a young, proactive, and passionate tourism professional with leadership aspirations to serve towards the sustainable tourism development in Nepal and the region. Holding a post-graduate degree in Travel and Tourism Management from Kathmandu Academy of Tourism and Hospitality, Suresh has been actively engaged with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter since 2013.

Presenters:
• Ms. Sarudha Netsawang, Director-Membership Relations, PATA
• Ms. Aletheia Tan, Youth Ambassador, PATA
• Mr. Suresh Singh Budal, Chief Executive Office of the PATA Nepal Chapter


Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA)
Marketing Outlook Forum 2020
October 5 – 8, 2020


UH Shidler College Alumni Association and TIM International
Hawaii Reopening Consortium Webinar
September 29, 2020
11:30 am – 1:00 pm HST


WB Research
Digital Travel Virtual Summit

September 22, 2020 4:00 pm – 10:30 pm HST

VENDOR PROMOTED

Covid-19 is posing unprecedented challenges for our travel industry. 
It’s forced you to seek guidance on how to navigate issues such as brand safety, post Covid-19 recovery plans, your content marketing and loyalty strategies. But how do you do that when everything changes daily? Without benchmarking and finding out what your peers are doing you could be missing out on critical information to keep your business afloat and get prepared for the future.

  • Adapt your marketing strategy to the Covid-19 landscape – get practical insights from the world’s leading travel brands
  • Accelerate your personalization, social media and programmatic maturity  – discover how the latest data and technology innovations are being leveraged
  • Benchmark against peers and have your pressing questions answered – hear from 15 leading digital travel speakers and take part in live polling and Q&A after each session

A glimpse at the speaker lineup:

  • Datuk Musa Yusof, Director General, Tourism Malaysia
  • Soo Siew Keong, Director, Trade Engagement & New Markets, Singapore Tourism Board
  • Emil Petrov, Head of Strategic Projects, Tourism New Zealand
  • Ivan Breiter, Director of SEA, Switzerland Tourism
  • Amanda Woo, Group Chief Commercial Officer, AirAsia
  • Jerome Thil, VP of Digital Innovation, Singapore Airlines
  • Akira Mitsumasu, VP, Global Marketing, Japan Airlines
  • Sarah Wan, Marketing Director, SEA, Klook
  • Kaushal Pilikuli, Director of Growth Marketing APAC, Wego
  • Liviu Nedef, Group Senior VP of Marketing, RedDoorz
  • Laurent A. Voivenel, Senior VP, Operations & Development, MEA & India, Swiss-Belhotel International

Hawaii Economics Association (HEA)
Housing After the Pandemic: Threats and Opportunities

September 3, 2020 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm HST

Featured Speaker: Philip Garboden, HCRC Professor in Affordable Housing Economics, Policy and Planning. Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Hawaii Manoa, UHERO

The COVID-19 pandemic and concurrent economic shutdown will have profound effects on Hawaii’s economy for years to come. In this talk, Dr. Garboden will discuss the impact of these events on housing, first considering the immediate risks to housing security and threats to our rental housing stock. Dr. Garboden will also discuss the longer-term risks associated with an extended economic downturn as well as the opportunities to develop new housing solutions in the wake of the crisis.


PATA International
COVID-19 Crisis Management & Impact on the Luxury Hospitality Industry: Case Study by Elite Havens

September 1, 2020 10:00 p.m. HST

Jon Stonham, CEO of Elite Havens, welcomes participants to this webinar to learn about strategies and solutions that can be taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, how to prepare for the reopening phase and towards recovery, and more about the future of travel and luxury hospitality post COVID-19. Elite Havens is Asia’s market leader in high-end holiday rentals with a spectacular portfolio of 300 plus luxury villas and chalets in Bali, Lombok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Sri Lanka, Japan, India and the Maldives.

– How COVID-19 affected our business and industry
– How prepared were we for a crisis before COVID-19. Other events we went through since 1998 and how we responded and bounced back.
– How did we adapt our sales & marketing strategy in response to the crisis – and what is our plan for the upcoming months
– How did we adapt our operations across all properties and regions to ensure strict measures are followed
– The advantages of self-isolating in a villa or chalet
– The reopening phase – strategies and solutions towards recovery
– The future of travel and luxury hospitality post COVID-19 – the long term impacts
– What are we learning from the COVID-19 crisis?


U.S. Small Business Administration and the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) of the Pacific
Adapting Your Marketing Strategy During Covid-19
Tuesday August 25, 2020 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. HST

Businesses need to strengthen relationships in areas where consumers are spending the most time during COVID-19. By understanding your audience, creating mindful messaging, and elevating your communication strategy, your brand can reach consumers in an impactful way and develop a larger audience.

This workshop is designed for existing businesses who already have some digital presence (website, social media) or some marketing strategy.

  • Digital Marketing Strategy Assessment and Adjustment
  • Assessing Your Digital Presence and Adapting because of COVID-19: Basics
    • How to adapt your website
    • Google My Business
    • Yelp
  • Social Media
  • Trends During COVID-19
  • Marketing opportunities during Covid-19
  • Marketing AFTER COVID: what to expect

PATA International
How to Develop an Effective Post COVID Communications Strategy

August 24, 2020 10:00 p.m. HST

The response of certain Governments to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, demonstrated the vital importance of communicating with clarity, authority and empathy in times of crisis. Elsewhere, other governments and political leaders have shown that misleading, inconsistent or contradictory messaging will quickly undermine trust, sow confusion or dissent, and prolong the crisis.

With the industry now seeing some early signs of recovery as some destinations gradually re-open travel both domestically and regionally, coordinated cooperation between all industry stakeholders is needed now more than ever in order to build a more resilient, responsible, and sustainable travel and tourism industry. As we look to rebuild confidence and restart tourism, communication is essential in this process.

During this webinar, learn how to develop an effective and robust communication strategy and plan to quickly reassure and engage key stakeholders to support recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure effective crisis communication planning for the next crisis.


PATA International
Travel Restart: Policy vs Reality

August 12, 2020 10:00 p.m. HST

As Travel begins to reopen around the world, the positivity of this progress is being countered by an important question- have we created a genuinely enabling environment for travel that will work for travellers and the trade, or simply a process dictated by policy or strategy?

  • What has been done to make high level policies and protocols realistic and appropriate at a local level?
  • Have DMOs forfeited their role to Heath and Security Authorities? What does this mean for tourism?
  • What are the implications for regional or multi destination travel when different countries have different protocols?
  • Will these new models work in a real world tourism setting? For aviation, hospitality and tour operators?
  • What will be the impact on volumes, pricing and thereby markets?
  • Is marketing now being driven by hygiene, safety and protocols rather than market appeal? What are the implications of this?

Hawaii CCIM and PATA Hawaii Chapter
Part 2: Reopening – Navigating Hawaii’s Road to Recovery

August 11, 2020 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
HST

Lieutenant Governor Josh Green


With Hawaii’s COVID cases rising and the possibility of reinstating previously relaxed restrictions, where does Hawaii go from here?  What do we need to do as a State to ensure that we will survive?  How do we work together to stay ahead of COVID.




Hawaii Economic Association
Reopening the Hawaii Tourism Economy in the Age of Covid-19

August 6, 2020 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. HST

Hawaii tourism can only resume safely and robustly if potential tourists perceive Hawaii to be a safe place to visit and Hawaii residents can be assured tourists are relatively free of COVID-19. To signal that Hawaii is a safe place to visit depends entirely on the level of COVID-19 infection in Hawaii and this depends on Hawaii residents taking proper precautions. What will it take to convince more residents and tourists to behave well? We argue that it will require reinforcement by businesses, customers, and employees of safe practices and public relations campaigns that positively nudge resident and tourist behaviors in the right direction. Overall, there needs to be much better communication from state authorities about safe practices and their impact.

  • Featured Speaker: Summer La Croix, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus Department of Economics University of Hawaii Manoa
  • Tim Brown, Ph.D, Senior Fellow East-West Center
  • F. DeWolfe Miller, M.S, M.P.H, Ph.D. F.A.C.E. Professor Emeritus Tropical Medicine Epidemiology John A Burns School of Medicine University of Hawaii
  • Moderator: Lesley Harvey, M.S., Business Consultant, The Hawaii Business Consultancy

PATA International and BBC
The Future Of Travel
July 15, 2020 10:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. HST

During this two-part webinar, a panel of BBC travel experts will examine what is going on in the world of tourism, followed by a discussion about how to attract visitors to your destinations. How should travel brands approach communications differently post Covid-19?

A Whole New World: What travel stories and trends have caught the attention of BBC’s panel of travel experts and what new ways will consumers interact with destinations in the foreseeable future?

Destination Marketing During a Pandemic: As tourism begins to revive, staying silent for destinations means risking their potential travelers turning elsewhere. But what is the right way and the right time to talk to travelers?

Moderator: Paul Pruangkarn, Director – Communications & External Affairs, PATA

Opening Remarks: Dr Mario Hardy, CEO, PATA

A Whole New World

Global travel came to a halt earlier this year, impacting businesses and livelihoods worldwide. How has this global ban on travel impacted the way travel journalists cover stories, and how are businesses evolving to remain safe, while still ensuring an unforgettable experience? What travel stories and trends have caught the attention of BBC’s panel of travel experts and what new ways will consumers interact with destinations in the foreseeable future?

Speakers:
• Mike London, Editor, The Travel Show
• Anne Banas , Editor, BBC Travel (BBC.com/travel)
• Rajan Datar, Presenter, The Travel Show
• Christa Larwood, Presenter, The Travel Show

Destination Marketing During a Pandemic

COVID-19 will go down in history as a global event which impacted economies and businesses worldwide, with the travel industry being one of the hardest to be hit. As tourism begins to revive, staying silent for destinations means risking their potential travelers turning elsewhere. But what is the right way to talk to travelers? When is the right time? And what do consumers feel about advertising campaigns running during this period.

Speakers:
• Alistair McEwan. Senior Vice President, Commercial Development, Asia & ANZ, BBC Global News
• S.L. Dhammika K. Wijayasinghe, Director General, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)
• Akira Mitsumasu, VP Global Marketing, Japan Airlines
• Ianic Menard, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Distribution for Accor Upper Southeast & Northeast Asia and the Maldives


PATA International
Dream To Travel Forums
Ongoing Webinar Series

The Dream To Travel Forums are engaging two-hour sessions packed with learning and inspiration, aimed at providing a united voice for building a more resilient, responsible, sustainable and stronger travel and tourism industry.

The Forums follow a different theme each week that incorporates the human elements in PATA’s 2020 annual theme: ‘Partnerships for Tomorrow’

  • Week 1: Trust – June 23
  • Week 2: Courage – June 30
  • Week 3: Wellbeing – July 6 – July 10
  • Week 4: Infinite Possibilities – July 13 – 17

Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB)
Insights to the Meetings Industry as it Works Toward Recovery

July 16, 2020 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. HST

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Northstar Meetings Group’s PULSE survey has assessed the changing circumstances, needs and plans of planners and event organizers all all types, from around the world. Northstar’s data has provided valuable insights to the meetings industry as it works toward recovery. Have the increases in cases over the last several weeks in various states changed plans and priorities? When do planners and event organizers expect to get back to business, and what will that look like? Are there different expectations for events, based on their locations, size and type? This timely session will report on the very latest PULSE survey results, aggregated and analyzed just prior to the webinar.

Also on this webinar, John Reyes, Senior Vice President and Chief MCI Sales Officer, and Mary Neister, Vice President, Global MCI and Statewide Hotel Sales, will provide an update on what is happening in the single property and city wide meetings space for the rest of 2020 and into 2021They will bring you content that can help shape your decisions and will share information an innovative approach to bring planners to your doors this fall (who will look to book 2021 and beyond). In alliance with HVCB’s media partners, two tech solutions have been created that will make connections and generate leads.

  • David Blansfield, Executive Vice President/Group Publisher @Northstar Travel Group
  • John Reyes, Senior Vice President & Chief MCI Sales Officer @Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
  • Mary Neister, Vice President, Global MCI and Statewide Hotel Sales @Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau

Hawaii Economic Association
Reopening Hawaii: HMSA’s Role in Stabilization and Recovery

July 2, 2020 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. HST

HMSA President and CEO, Dr. Mark Mugiishi, discusses HMSA’s role in developing a roadmap for reopening Hawaii’s economy, how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected macro modeling of healthcare financing, as well as ways the organization has supported its members, businesses, providers and employees to mitigate the effects of those financial effects throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Michael Robinson will moderate the Q&A session following Dr. Mugiishi’s presentation.

  • Featured Speaker: Dr. Mark Mugiishi, M.D., F.A.C.S, President and CEO HMSA
  • Moderator: Michael Robinson, Vice President, Government Relations and Community Affairs, Hawaii Pacific Health
  • Host: Lesley Harvey, M.S., Business Consultant, The Hawaii Business Consultancy

MDRG
The New Consumer: Seeking Balance Amid
Uncertainty
June 25, 2020 6:00 a.m HST

VENDOR PROMOTED

Consumers’ lives have been upended by the coronavirus pandemic. In short, the equilibrium that used to exist is no longer there. Consumers have adapted their habits in order to cope.

MDRG explores the alterations to their habits – whether they be superficial changes such as washing their hands more, or more involved habits such as meditating and reflecting more often to maintain emotional health –  and how brands and businesses can meet consumers where they are to provide positive experiences.

  • How consumer’s wellness concerns are changing and how brands can adapt
  • Recommendations for improving the shopping experience based on both how and what consumers are purchasing
  • Changes to consumer priorities and how brands can engage

Expedia Group Media Solutions
Webinar 4: How the Travel Industry is Preparing for Recovery

June 23, 2020 7:00 a.m HST

VENDOR PROMOTED

As the travel industry looks toward recovery, we believe the best way to navigate the new normal is by working closely and collaboratively with our partners and the industry. In this webinar, our partner MMGY Global will share their latest United States-focused traveler sentiment study, and we’ll discuss how to leverage these insights to engage with travelers. We’ll also introduce the latest best practices and creative guidelines that can help ensure your campaigns hit the right note and increase the likelihood they’ll influence travelers and drive demand.

  • Craig Compagnone, Chief Operating Officer, MMGY Global
  • Doug Park, Senior Director, Ad Operations, Expedia Group Media Solutions
  • Wendy Olson Killion, Vice President, Business Development, Expedia Group Media Solutions

PATA International
Tourism Marketing Strategies under COVID-19 for the Chinese Outbound Market
June 11, 2020 10:00 p.m HST

The webinar will provide an overview of the latest Chinese tourism marketing updates. It will explain the different marketing strategies, latest technologies and action points needed to attract the Chinese market. Apart from that, the webinar will also look beyond the Chinese market to show examples of other regions and their marketing strategies amidst COVID-19.

  • Latest update for China outbound tourism marketing
  • Content creation and promotion for the Chinese market
  • Sales channels for the Chinese market
  • How to welcome Chinese visitors as travel restrictions ease
  • Case studies and interesting examples from other regions of the world

PATA Hawaii
Navigating Hawaii’s Road to Recovery….when There is No Roadway
Economic Outlook and Forecast Update

June 10, 2020 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m HST

While destinations across the U.S. mainland are focusing on the drive market to fuel the early stages of their tourism recovery, this is not an option for Hawaii (i.e., short of a near-term, widespread adoption of flying cars!), Nearly halfway into 2020, what is the updated outlook for Hawaii’s visitor industry? Find out what our line-up of tourism forecasters and hotel/aviation experts think. These insights will help you better navigate “the road ahead” in the second half of 2020!

  • Eugene Tian, Ph.D., Chief Economist, Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism
  • Amelia Lim, Managing Director, CBRE Hotels Advisory/Capital Markets
  • Paul Brewbaker, Principal, TZ Economics
  • Brad DiFiore, Managing Director, Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting

Moderated by Chris Kam, OmniTrak Group


Ketchum and Miles Partnership
Re-imagining Major Travel Experiences Webinar
June 4, 2020 9:00 a.m – 10:00 a.m. HST

VENDOR PROMOTED

There will be no such thing as “business as usual” for the tourism industry’s key experience providers in a post COVID-19 reality. Airlines, hotels/resorts, restaurants, attractions, sports and events are the key building blocks of destination experiences and have all been greatly impacted by this epidemic. In this unique webinar, you’ll hear from speakers representing major professional sports franchises, global hotel and airline brands and international attractions. They’ll talk about how they’ve maintained a connection with their customers through these unprecedented times and, perhaps more importantly, how they plan to resume marketing – and operating – in a world that is likely to require a brand-new approach to the customer experience.


Hawaii Economics Association
Hawaii’s Path to Economic Recovery
with Alan Oshima, Hawaii’s Economic and Community Navigator

June 4, 2020 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m HST

Since his appointment by Governor Ige to serve as Hawaii’s Economic & Community Navigator, Alan Oshima has been charged with guiding the State’s efforts to develop and implement a plan for economic and community stabilization, recovery and resiliency. Join us to hear about the State’s plans and goals for economic recovery, where we are now, and what will be needed to reopen and reshape Hawaii’s economy. Bring your questions – a moderated Q&A session will follow the presentation.


PATA International
Restoring post-COVID-19 APAC Travel and Destinations’ E-reputation: What social sentiment data tell us
Jun 3, 2020 09:30 p.m HST

From early January 2020, the COVID-19 is dramatically impacting all players of the travel and tourism ecosystem, with various levels and consequences for destinations. Among must-track indicators for DMOs (bookings, post-crisis visitation recovery, Professionals’ opinions, etc.), the overall ‘sentiment’ shared on global social web channels is focal to monitor as reflecting both the state of opinion related to travel and tourism in overall (optimism, pessimism, growing issues and concerns) and the virality and impact of the crisis on specific destinations’ attractiveness.

During this webinar, TCI will share key insights from its social listening tracker (TRAVELSAT Sentiment Index) and analyse the COVID-19 impact on Asia Pacific reputation built from web social conversations at large that can alter destinations’ attractiveness.


Honeywell:
Creating Safe Airport Environments
June 3, 2 a.m – 3 a.m. HST

VENDOR PROMOTED

The global coronavirus outbreak has created an increasing number of challenges to individuals, communities and companies while strongly impacting travel, transportation and healthcare. While some governments across the globe announced stimuli packages, the aviation industry is still working to determine how the current health crisis will reshape the sector. In this webinar with International Airport Review, Honeywell experts will discuss specific solutions that enable airports to prepare for what can be expected to be the new normal, in a post COVID-19 world.


Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau (HVCB):
How to Shift Your Social Media Strategy During the COVID-19 Recovery Period
May 20, 2020 1:00 a.m. HST

People are turning to social media like never before to find a sense of community. Big shifts are happening and post-quarantine consumers will have new expectations. This webinar outlines how to shift your social media strategy during the COVID-19 recovery period so you can appeal to travelers and tour groups. According to the Harris Poll, the people most likely to travel by plane in the first 3 months of recovery are under 49. These tech-savvy tourists are tapping and scrolling outside the news feed. They are looking for connection and recommendations online. You can stay top of mind and get more bookings from social media coming out of this crisis. Join us to learn social marketing strategies you should be using now and during the recovery to get ahead. This webinar will help you be ready once the travel quarantine is lifted and we are ready to welcome visitors again.


Hagadone:
Advertising Strategies For Hawaii Based Tourism Companies
May 19, 2020 9:00 a.m. HST

VENDOR PROMOTED

Attend for information the This Week and Hagadone Media family finds helpful as you make your own plans. During this one hour webinar, Publisher Kent Coules and Vice President of Hagadone Media- Digital Services Robin Kennedy will share:

  • What re-opening may look like in terms of demographics and numbers.
  • Messaging strategies that focus on the uniqueness of the Covid-19 reality.
  • How digital advertising is adjusting to the “new normal”.

Sponsored by SME Honolulu


Impact Hospitality:
Safety & Security First
May 18, 3 p.m. HST


Moderated by Michael Cheng, Ph.D., CHE, Dean Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University. Speakers are Ian Wilson, Advisor & Mentor to Singapore’s tourism & hospitality industry, and former SVP at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, Denise Hayashi-Yamaguchi, CEO – Hawaii Food & Wine Festival, Roy Yamaguchi, Chef & Founder – Roy’s Restaurants, Alan Wong, Chef & Founder – Alan Wong’s Restaurant, and WONG Soon-Hwa, Founder & CEO – Asia Tourism Consulting and Vice-Chairman of PATA.

The once robust and healthy global economy is now fragile and vulnerable. The psychological impact of COVID-19 could take its toll on future revenue and delay a much-needed tourism revival.
With concerns over safety and wellbeing at the forefront, what actions can the hospitality and tourism industry take to help reduce travel anxiety and restore consumer confidence?

This session brings together top executives and tourism consultants from integrated resorts, restaurants, and lifestyle and sustainable tourism to address these issues and offer solutions.

The focus will be on ways to keep lifestyle events, experiential & sustainable tourism alive and well in a post-pandemic world.


PATA International:
The Impact of COVID-19 on PATA Visitor Forecasts 2020-2024
May 14, 2020 3:00 p.m. ICT (Thailand)

Under the newly updated forecasts from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the most likely scenario for international visitor arrivals into and across Asia Pacific in 2020 is that visitor numbers are likely to reduce by 32% year-on-year. Taking into account the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the volume of arrivals is now expected to reduce to fewer than 500 million this year.

What you’ll learn from Hong Kong Polytechnic University:
● The methods used in the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts report series
● Understanding the factors, especially COVID-19, that may have contributed to the future trends of tourism demand within Asia Pacific
● The extent to which COVID-19 would affect the demand for travel within the region
● Suggestions about the ways in which the destination organisations/businesses could combat the negative impacts of COVID-19

What you’ll learn from Euromonitor International:
● The latest global economic outlook based on Euromonitor International’s latest research incorporating COVID-19 effects
● The historic economic performance of PATA destinations for metrics like GDP and disposable income
● The future outlook for PATA destination economies and income in light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic


Skift:
Travel’s Path Forward: Short Term Rentals
May
7, 11 a.m – 12:30 p.m. EDT
VENDOR PROMOTED

As the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a sharp decline for both the rapidly expanding urban short-term rental market and the prospects of a busy summer vacation rental season, how can players both large and small across alternative-accommodations best balance find resilience in this time? How can platforms best balance the needs of both guests and hosts, following more consistent policy enforcement?


Hawaii Economics Association:
The Economic Impacts of Covid-19 on Hawaii
May 7, 2020 11:30 a.m. HST

Webinar complete, linked to full presentation.

Topics will include the impacts of COVID-19 on the State’s overall economy, including a discussion of Federal and state government actions to mitigate its impact; state revenue collections and impacts on tax collections; tourism; and investment. Possible paths for recovery will also be discussed.

Panelists:

  • Eugene Tian, Ph.D., Chief Economist STATE OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM
  • Seth Colby, Ph.D. Tax Research & Planning Officer, STATE OF HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION
  • Erik Kloninger, Partner, KLONINGER SIMS CONSULTING
  • Paul Brewbaker, Ph.D., CBE Principal TZ ECONOMICS

Moderated by Lesley Harvey, HEA President


Adara Mission Impossible:
Cracking the code of customer data and identity: Defusing the 3rd Party Cookie Time-Bomb
May 6, 2020 8:00 a.m. EDT

VENDOR PROMOTED

Join us for the first in a series of ADARA webinars on the topic of customer data and identity. Our debut session, in partnership with LiveRamp, will feature Charles Mi, CTO at ADARA and Ian Meyers, Sr. Product Manager – Identity at LiveRamp. These experts will explore the implications of changes to Google’s 3rd party cookie policy and provide suggested strategies to prepare for critical developments in customer marketing.


Zoom:
Getting Started with Zoom Meetings
May 6, Ongoing

VENDOR PROMOTED

Ready to start using Zoom, but need some help? Drop-in for our daily (Mon-Fri) quick starts! A Zoom expert will take you through a 30-minute high-level tour of Zoom and cover the basics to get you up and running. It’s as simple as logging in, scheduling a meeting, and finding the controls. Start Zooming today! Stick around to get all your burning questions answered through live Q&A!