PATA and APOLA Strengthen Outdoor Lodging Industry in Asia-Pacific with Strategic Alliance Aimed at Shaping the Future of Glamping and Eco-Tourism

A groundbreaking collaboration has been established between the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and the Asia-Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association (APOLA), set to revolutionize the outdoor lodging industry in the Asia-Pacific region. This strategic alliance, formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on January 22, 2026, at the Thailand Tourism Forum in Bangkok, aims to drive sustainability, innovation, and responsible growth within the rapidly expanding outdoor lodging sector, often referred to as glamping.

A Visionary Partnership for Sustainable Development

The MoU between PATA and APOLA is a major milestone for the outdoor lodging industry, signalling a shared commitment to advancing responsible tourism and supporting the growth of nature-based accommodations. This alliance brings together two influential players in the tourism industry, each with a unique focus on sustainable tourism practices and operational excellence.

APOLA, a not-for-profit entity, is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices within the outdoor lodging sector. The partnership with PATA seeks to leverage both organisations’ strengths to create a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, joint initiatives, and best practices that will shape the future of glamping and other nature-first accommodations.

The alliance aims to facilitate the development of industry standards that will guide the sector toward growth that prioritises environmental and community responsibility. By sharing resources and expertise, both organizations plan to drive innovation and enhance the appeal of outdoor lodging across the region.

Glamping: A Booming Sector with Immense Potential

The outdoor lodging market is experiencing significant growth, with an annual expansion rate of approximately 11% across the Asia-Pacific region. The glamping industry, in particular, has seen an explosion in demand, driven by a growing interest in nature-based travel experiences that combine comfort and adventure.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a marked increase in the popularity of outdoor accommodation options. As travelers seek safer, more immersive experiences away from crowded urban centres, glamping has emerged as a key solution. From luxurious yurts and safari tents to treehouses and nature pods, glamping offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the comforts of modern hospitality.

This shift towards nature-first travel is expected to continue to gain momentum as more people seek meaningful, environmentally-conscious vacation options. The collaboration between PATA and APOLA comes at a crucial time, as the demand for unique, high-quality, and sustainable travel experiences continues to grow.

Sustainability at the Core of the Partnership

At the heart of the MoU is a shared commitment to sustainability. Both PATA and APOLA understand that for the outdoor lodging sector to thrive long-term, it must do so in a way that balances growth with the preservation of the environment. This partnership is dedicated to developing industry standards that promote eco-friendly practices and ensure that nature-based accommodations operate in harmony with the surrounding environment.

By working together to promote these standards, PATA and APOLA aim to ensure that glamping and other outdoor lodging formats adhere to strict sustainability guidelines. These efforts will not only benefit the environment but will also provide travelers with responsible and authentic experiences that contribute to the preservation of natural landscapes.

Furthermore, the collaboration will focus on fostering social responsibility by supporting local communities and businesses. The success of outdoor lodging is often deeply intertwined with the health and prosperity of the surrounding region, and both organisations recognise the importance of creating opportunities for local communities to benefit from the growing demand for nature-based tourism.

Knowledge Exchange and Networking Opportunities

Another significant aspect of the partnership is the opportunity for knowledge exchange and networking. Under the MoU, PATA and APOLA will provide their members with access to valuable research, insights, and trends within the outdoor lodging sector. APOLA will supply PATA with quarterly reports on industry developments, tourism trends, and emerging market dynamics, ensuring that both organisations remain at the forefront of industry knowledge.

In addition to research exchange, the partnership will promote mutual events and activities, offering members of both organisations the chance to engage in networking initiatives, attend conferences, and participate in industry forums. These opportunities will enable professionals in the outdoor lodging sector to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives that drive growth and innovation.

The partnership will also create platforms for speaker participation, allowing industry experts to present at events hosted by both organisations. This will foster a sense of community and provide members with valuable insights from thought leaders across the tourism and outdoor lodging industries.

A Bright Future for Outdoor Lodging in Asia-Pacific

As the demand for nature-based accommodations continues to grow, the partnership between PATA and APOLA is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the outdoor lodging sector in the Asia-Pacific region. The collaboration positions both organisations as leaders in promoting sustainability, operational excellence, and responsible tourism.

Glamping is expected to continue to thrive as an alternative form of travel, offering both luxury and environmental consciousness in some of the world’s most beautiful natural settings. With the backing of PATA and APOLA, the sector will be able to meet this demand while maintaining its focus on sustainability and community engagement.

Through this partnership, PATA and APOLA are not only helping to shape the future of the outdoor lodging industry but are also contributing to a broader movement towards responsible tourism. The impact of this collaboration will be felt across the Asia-Pacific region, as both organisations work together to create a sustainable, innovative, and thriving outdoor lodging market that meets the needs of modern travellers while preserving the beauty of the natural world.

As this partnership evolves, it promises to create a legacy of responsible and impactful tourism that will benefit both the industry and the environment for years to come.

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