With technology becoming the new compass for travellers, major players in the travel technology segment will be given prime space at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Travel Mart, which will be held here from September 6 to 8.
Said to be one of the three major travel marts in the world, PATA is coming to Bengaluru for the first time, and for the third time to India.
The Karnataka Tourism Department has roped in the State’s Information Technology Department to assist it in showcasing travel technology – a new addition along with a Tourism Investment Forum – at the international event.
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Mario Hardy, chief executive officer, PATA, told reporters here that the 38th edition would also give ample opportunity to the host city and the State to showcase what it has to offer. “The theme will be centred on Karnataka and what it has to offer,” he said.
R.V. Deshpande, Minister for Higher Education and Tourism, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been requested to inaugurate the event.
Expecting the event to yield employment potential and a few memoranda of understanding, Mr. Deshpande said, “Karnataka has 319 tourist destinations; we have everything except snow. I don’t say there are no infrastructure problems, but initiatives have been taken to plug them.”
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G. Satyavathi, Director of Tourism, said the State would be showcased as a start-up hub, so would popular offerings such as wine, coffee and spices.
Who?
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a not-for profit association that acts as a catalyst for the development of travel and tourism to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.
When?
September 6 to 8
Where?
Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC)
How many participants?
Around 1,000 stakeholders from over 60 countries
What to expect?
Travel technology conference
Tourism Investment Forum
Karnataka pavilion
Focus on wine, coffee, spices, toys and handicrafts from the State