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PATA UK is the hub of activity for Pacific Asia. We have a community of over 5,000 travel professionals who strive to be travel experts for a wide array of destinations throughout the region. Our goal is to educate the UK travel trade by hosting events throughout the UK, where members can keep up-to- date about the latest happenings in Pacific Asia.
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Truly Unique Experiences
I am fortunate to have so many travel experiences in my travel life, with several whilst moving around South East Asia. The region is rich in culture, scenic contrasts, heritage, cuisine , top class luxurious hotels and wonderfully authentic traditional tribal villages . Great beaches and sea activities.
And of course unique wildlife and nature experiences. I could go on at length about the options but just let us look at four that I have done quite recently.
First a couple that be done just for few hours. Walking with “ Giants “ (elephants) through the jungles of Northern Thailand. Just me, the mahout, two Elephants who roamed free – where they went I followed, scrambling through the bush they had partly flattened. Did this at the Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand , suggested it to numerous clients and usual response is “ wow, thank you, incredible “.
Next would the jungle walk at the Datai in Langkawi, Malaysia. Accompanied by incredible guide, it can be done during the day or for something very different at night – the sounds offer something unique. The rainforest jungle is said to be over 10 million years old . That alone makes it amazing . Our numerous repeat clints to The Datai feel this experience is as important as the beach, jungle spa and superb views .
For a slightly longer nature encounter I would suggest the 3day ( 2 nights ) rainforest and lake combination offered by Elephant Hills in Khao Sok , southern Thailand, easily accessible from Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi. A combination of Elephants, river and cave exploration, jungle treks, canoeing and a night spend in a floating tent. One of our most popular extension tours with as close to 100% satisfaction as you can get. It so much more than just being close to elephants, that is only part of it .
And of course unique wildlife and nature experiences. I could go on at length about the options but just let us look at four that I have done quite recently.
First a couple that be done just for few hours. Walking with “ Giants “ (elephants) through the jungles of Northern Thailand. Just me, the mahout, two Elephants who roamed free – where they went I followed, scrambling through the bush they had partly flattened. Did this at the Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand , suggested it to numerous clients and usual response is “ wow, thank you, incredible “.
Next would the jungle walk at the Datai in Langkawi, Malaysia. Accompanied by incredible guide, it can be done during the day or for something very different at night – the sounds offer something unique. The rainforest jungle is said to be over 10 million years old . That alone makes it amazing . Our numerous repeat clints to The Datai feel this experience is as important as the beach, jungle spa and superb views .
For a slightly longer nature encounter I would suggest the 3day ( 2 nights ) rainforest and lake combination offered by Elephant Hills in Khao Sok , southern Thailand, easily accessible from Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi. A combination of Elephants, river and cave exploration, jungle treks, canoeing and a night spend in a floating tent. One of our most popular extension tours with as close to 100% satisfaction as you can get. It so much more than just being close to elephants, that is only part of it .
For the true nature enthusiasts I would suggest visiting the twin Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah on the separate island of Borneo. Just under 2 hours flight from Kuala Lumpur, this is a very different to the more developed Malay Peninsula. Here is all about adventure and enjoying nature in a simple authentic way. Borneo is a huge island with not only these two Malaysian states but also the separate Brunei, and the southern 70% is actually Indonesian state of Kalimantan. Sarawak on its own is equal to the entire size of Peninsula Malaysia. The luxury here comes in the total experience of authentic nature, the sheer expanse of rain forest, rivers, unique flora and fauna and of course wildlife, most of which are only found here. The Borneo sun bear, pygmy elephants, Proboscis monkeys (funny how my nose size looked the same but that is where the similarity ended!) and of course numerous Orangutan. Just incredible and as yet off of the radar for most UK travellers.
I would suggest combining both Sarawak and Sabah as they have just as many differences as similarities. A tour can be done in about 10 days staying in comfortable atmospheric hotels & Lodges. Plus if time allows you can top your adventure by climbing Mount Kinabalu (2 day escorted hike with overnight camp stay) from Kota Kinabalu. Numerous touring options are available around Sarawak & Sabah but at Chic we rather like the service and originality offered by our regional partner Sticky Rice Travel.
With all of the suggestion offered it is important clients are truly comfortable with the realities with the sights and sounds of nature, and are reasonably fit and active and able to cope with jungle pathways, both up & down and the occasional discomfort is all part of the experience.
David Kevan of Chic Locations and UK PATA chapter board member.
I would suggest combining both Sarawak and Sabah as they have just as many differences as similarities. A tour can be done in about 10 days staying in comfortable atmospheric hotels & Lodges. Plus if time allows you can top your adventure by climbing Mount Kinabalu (2 day escorted hike with overnight camp stay) from Kota Kinabalu. Numerous touring options are available around Sarawak & Sabah but at Chic we rather like the service and originality offered by our regional partner Sticky Rice Travel.
With all of the suggestion offered it is important clients are truly comfortable with the realities with the sights and sounds of nature, and are reasonably fit and active and able to cope with jungle pathways, both up & down and the occasional discomfort is all part of the experience.
David Kevan of Chic Locations and UK PATA chapter board member.
Botanical trails, Reef Encounters & Rainforest Foraging at The Chill Koh Chang
Koh Chang hums with life — from hornbills, macaques and butterflies to monitor lizards, rich marine life and coral habitats. Set within the lush embrace of Mu Ko Chang National Park, The Chill Koh Chang is a gateway to one of Thailand’s richest natural playgrounds. Rainforest-clad mountains tumble into mangroves, waterfalls and quiet bays, offering a sanctuary for flora and fauna to thrive. Here, nature isn’t just a backdrop — it’s an open invitation to explore and reconnect, with The Chill’s curated experiences bringing guests closer to Koh Chang’s remarkable wildlife…
The Spice Trail Experience
The Spice Trail Experience is a sensory journey into the botanical heart of Koh Chang, where a private forest path near Bang Bao reveals the island’s extraordinary plant life. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, this gentle walk invites guests to see, touch and even taste native herbs, forest spices and edible plants in their natural habitat. Rooted in the research behind the book Flora of Koh Chang, the experience offers a deeper understanding of how local plants are used in everyday Thai life. Developed in collaboration with botanical specialists, the Spice Trail debuted during the 2025 Flora of Koh Chang event, marking 125 years since the island’s first documented botanical study. Following the trek, an optional hands-on cooking class transforms the freshly foraged ingredients into authentic Thai dishes.
Khao Laem Salak Phet Trek
This immersive trek ventures deep into dense rainforest, climbing 650 metres above sea level to the summit of Khao Laem. The 10-kilometre trail winds through pristine jungle, revealing sweeping views over Salak Phet Bay and neighbouring islands. Along the way, observe local birdlife and insects, with their calls as your soundtrack. The reward? A refreshing dip at a nearby waterfall before returning to the comfort of the resort.
Koh Ngam Half-Day Trip
Enjoy a leisurely morning or afternoon at Koh Ngam, a serene island hideaway just off Koh Chang’s southern tip. Known for its twin forested hills linked by a ribbon of white sand, the island is framed by calm lagoons and luminous turquoise waters. Beneath the surface, vibrant marine life thrives — colourful reef fish, coral formations and gentle sea creatures reveal themselves to snorkellers in the shallows.
Mountain Biking
For a freer kind of exploration, hop onto one of the resort’s free mountain bikes and chart your own course. Pedal through local villages, glide along quiet coastal roads or venture into forest trails leading to hidden viewpoints and secluded beaches. Each ride reveals a new layer of Koh Chang — where everyday island life meets untamed tropical beauty, nature and wildlife.
The above excursions are available from both The Chill Koh Chang and The Retreat Koh Chang – represented by Red Elephant Reps in the UK & Ireland markets.
The Spice Trail Experience
The Spice Trail Experience is a sensory journey into the botanical heart of Koh Chang, where a private forest path near Bang Bao reveals the island’s extraordinary plant life. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, this gentle walk invites guests to see, touch and even taste native herbs, forest spices and edible plants in their natural habitat. Rooted in the research behind the book Flora of Koh Chang, the experience offers a deeper understanding of how local plants are used in everyday Thai life. Developed in collaboration with botanical specialists, the Spice Trail debuted during the 2025 Flora of Koh Chang event, marking 125 years since the island’s first documented botanical study. Following the trek, an optional hands-on cooking class transforms the freshly foraged ingredients into authentic Thai dishes.
Khao Laem Salak Phet Trek
This immersive trek ventures deep into dense rainforest, climbing 650 metres above sea level to the summit of Khao Laem. The 10-kilometre trail winds through pristine jungle, revealing sweeping views over Salak Phet Bay and neighbouring islands. Along the way, observe local birdlife and insects, with their calls as your soundtrack. The reward? A refreshing dip at a nearby waterfall before returning to the comfort of the resort.
Koh Ngam Half-Day Trip
Enjoy a leisurely morning or afternoon at Koh Ngam, a serene island hideaway just off Koh Chang’s southern tip. Known for its twin forested hills linked by a ribbon of white sand, the island is framed by calm lagoons and luminous turquoise waters. Beneath the surface, vibrant marine life thrives — colourful reef fish, coral formations and gentle sea creatures reveal themselves to snorkellers in the shallows.
Mountain Biking
For a freer kind of exploration, hop onto one of the resort’s free mountain bikes and chart your own course. Pedal through local villages, glide along quiet coastal roads or venture into forest trails leading to hidden viewpoints and secluded beaches. Each ride reveals a new layer of Koh Chang — where everyday island life meets untamed tropical beauty, nature and wildlife.
The above excursions are available from both The Chill Koh Chang and The Retreat Koh Chang – represented by Red Elephant Reps in the UK & Ireland markets.
Heritance Aarah: Redefining the Premium All-Inclusive Offering Amidst the Expansive Maldivian Waters
In the heart of the Raa Atoll, framed by endless blue horizons, coral-laced lagoons, and the rhythmic pulse of the Indian Ocean, stands Heritance Aarah – a multi-award-winning five-star Maldivian Resort. Famed for Maldivian serenity and underwater adventure, this Premium All-Inclusive Resort draws marine enthusiasts, underwater photographers, and discerning travellers in search of the Maldives’ most vivid marine wonders.
Adventure-seekers and sea lovers are invited to embark on one of the most exhilarating marine pursuits in the Maldives - chasing the legendary giant marlin in the deep waters of the Indian Ocean. Heritance Aarah offers fishing excursions that venture as far as Shaviyani Atoll, a celebrated fishing hotspot about two hours away by boat, where waters teem with marlin, wahoo, sailfish, and dorado (mahi-mahi). Even outside the main marlin season, these rich fishing grounds continue to offer rewarding experiences for keen anglers.
Each trip is an adventure of endurance and excitement, blending the serenity of open-ocean views with the heart-pounding anticipation of a strike. Since marlin are caught using floating minnow lures, patience and timing are key, with every cast offering the potential for an exhilarating encounter. In line with the resort’s sustainability commitment, the catch-and-release method is used as a responsible practice to protect marine biodiversity. Heritance Aarah’s Big Game Fishing Excursions operate daily (with prior booking) and include all premium fishing equipment, an experienced angler, water, soft drinks, and a selection of light refreshments to keep energy levels high throughout the day.
With a diverse dining portfolio, which includes the world’s first and only Maldivian-Sri Lankan fusion restaurant, Heritance Aarah’s Premium All-Inclusive offering has been redefined to cater for those who seek exceptional dining experiences, crafted cocktails, fine wines, internationally recognised spirits and of course, an innovative range of alcohol-free drinks and fresh juices. Coupled with immersive cultural experiences, wildlife excursions, luxury accommodation and elevated service, every moment at Heritance Aarah invites you to find freedom.
Cementing itself as the ‘Leading Culinary Resort’ in the Maldivian Archipelago, Heritance Aarah delivers a range of dining destinations rarely seen in an island resort.
- Ambula is the world’s first Maldivian–Sri Lankan fusion restaurant. Bringing together two Indian Ocean culinary heritages, it is brought to life in an eight-course tasting menu combining heritage ingredients and traditional dishes with modern skill. Tasting menus usually command a surcharge; this inclusion as part of Heritance Aarah’s redefined Premium All-Inclusive reiterates the new standards the Maldivian resort is setting.
- From barefoot dining in thatched pods, on the sugar-soft sands, Ginifati showcases prime meats and ocean-fresh catch in an elegant setting.
- Elevating the traditional buffet experience is Ranba. Not only will you be spoilt for choice, but live cooking stations and global flavours also complement the dining experience.
- Fresh seafood and classic Mediterranean dishes combine at Ralu, where over-water dining is elegant
- Japanese-inspired specialities and traditional teppanyaki are brought to life at Hathaa. This intimate setting is interactive and entertaining.
- Guests staying in the exceptional Ocean Suites or Ocean Residence can dine at Baani, where a melting pot of cultures and cooking styles combine to create à la carte dishes, and dinner is a six-course tasting menu
- The best pizza outside of Naples can be found at Pizza Shack. Freshly baked pizzas and a comprehensive snack menu is best enjoyed with a chilled drink in hand.
Each of the five bars is an experience. From molecular cocktails and a sensational sunset setting at Sky Bar, to the social heart of the island, complete with evening entertainment at Bandhi Pool Bar. Panoramic views are to be savoured whilst sipping on expertly crafted Mediterranean-inspired cocktails at Ralu Lounge Bar, which is also home to the widest range of rum in the Indian Ocean. Those staying in the Ocean Suites and Ocean Residence can sip and swim at Undaras Overwater Infinity Pool Bar. For those who seek relaxation, Falhu Bar is the perfect way to wind down. The Premium All-Inclusive extends to international spirits, champagne and a wine list of over 70 wines from robust reds to crisp whites and refreshing rosés, reinforcing the genuine premium positioning.
For an elevated experience, the resort offers a variety of water sports, including parasailing, flyboarding, kite surfing, catamaran sailing, and jet skiing, as well as year-round signature experiences such as manta snorkelling excursions, dolphin watching, sunrise cruises and an unforgettable snorkelling experience at the resort’s house reef for an immersive underwater journey of the Raa Atoll’s rich marine life.
MEMBERS DIRECTORY
Use our membership directory to browse PATA members and find contacts for DMCs, airlines, tourist boards & hotel partners in the Pacific Asia region.
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