Bangkok, Thailand, September 8, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announced that Chiang Rai will host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 (PDMF 2025) from December 1-3, 2025, at the Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel & Convention Center. This news was officially announced at the closing ceremony of the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2024, confirming Chiang Rai as the host city for the next edition of this event.

Under the motto “Immersed in tradition, rooted in well-being: Weaving the meaningful story of travel”, the event is jointly organized by the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the City of Chiang Rai and the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) with the support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

“PATA is very pleased to partner with Chiang Rai to host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum next year, following PATA’s successful organization of the PATA Adventure Travel and Responsible Tourism Conference and Mart 2016 in the province,” noted PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid.

“This collaboration reinforces our commitment to raising the international profile of emerging and exceptional travel destinations. The forum’s unique format, combining a one-day destination experience with a one-day conference, offers destination marketers and tourism professionals practical insights, actionable strategies, and current trends to enhance the appeal of their destinations. It also provides a valuable platform for exchanging ideas with industry experts who share our vision for tourism growth in the Asia-Pacific region.”

He continued: “We are delighted to be working again with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), one of our key partners. Thanks to their support, the upcoming program promises a wealth of learning opportunities, arising from both the immersive on-site travel experience and expert presentations. I look forward to welcoming all stakeholders in the tourism sector to Chiang Rai, Thailand.”

Chiang Rai Governor Charin Thongsuk said: “We are honored that Chiang Rai will co-host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025. This opportunity allows us to showcase our province not only as a destination of beauty and cultural richness, but also as a model for sustainable and community-oriented tourism. Thanks to the close cooperation between our local communities, the public sector, and the PATA international network, we look forward to welcoming delegates from around the world and sharing the unique character and hospitality of Chiang Rai with them.”

TCEB President Dr. Supawan Teerarat stated: “TCEB is proud to partner with PATA to promote Thailand’s emerging tourism destination at this marketing conference. TCEB already collaborates with Chiang Rai in various areas, as it is one of our destinations with high potential as a MICE city. We are therefore convinced of the province’s unique advantages, which offer a successful blend of nature, culture, and creativity. Furthermore, the Mae Fah Luang Garden in Chiang Rai has been awarded the PATA Gold Award. With Chiang Rai boasting both high-quality traditional and modern offerings, the PDMF 2025 will undoubtedly be a forum for exchange and inspiration.”

The Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thapanee Kiatphaibool, stated: “The TAT remains strongly committed to value-driven tourism that promotes sustainability, enhances the uniqueness of destinations, and raises industry standards. We are delighted to support the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025, which will highlight Chiang Rai’s unique potential while providing other smaller destinations with strategic insights into effective destination marketing and sustainable development.”

Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, Director General of DASTA, stated: “DASTA is proud to have supported Chiang Rai on its path to becoming a UNESCO Creative City of Design and is delighted to once again host the PATA Destination Marketing Forum in this province. Throughout the Forum, DASTA develops technical travel programs that highlight Chiang Rai’s cultural diversity and unique values ​​– from its historical and artistic heritage to hands-on experiences that offer an authentic glimpse into local traditions and ways of life. The programs will also highlight the Royal Doi Tung Project, a sustainable development model transforming the opium-growing region into green forests, horticultural areas, and tourist attractions. Furthermore, Chiang Rai’s diverse ethnic cultures will be brought to life through creative, community-based tourism activities.”

The city of Chiang Rai, nestled in Thailand's northernmost region, is renowned for its imposing mountain range and the famous Golden Triangle. With iconic landmarks like Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) and the Baan Dam Museum (the Black House), Chiang Rai captivates visitors with art and architecture that reflect both the skill of Thai national artists and the rich heritage of northern Thailand. Those seeking tranquility and nature can enjoy the breathtaking morning mist over the peaks of Doi Pha Tang, explore lush tea plantations, and relax by idyllic waterfalls. The province also offers authentic cultural experiences, showcasing traditional crafts and local customs. Conveniently, Chiang Rai is just an hour's flight from Bangkok.

About the PATA Destination Marketing Forum

The PATA Destination Marketing Forum is a three-day event designed to empower emerging destinations, providing them with the tools and insights to grow into globally recognized tourism hubs. This year's event offers an interactive and informative experience, combining local exploration with hands-on workshops.

Registration details and fee for CO2 compensation

Registration for the PDMF 2025 is free, with PATA members receiving priority on a first-come, first-served basis. In line with PATA's commitment to sustainable tourism, the PDMF 2025 will be carbon neutral. PATA is partnering with a local environmental initiative in Thailand to promote greenhouse gas reduction and carbon sequestration. A small fee of USD 10 per participant will be charged for carbon offsetting.

Further details regarding the PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2025 will be announced in due course.