Addressing global geopolitical tensions and climate change, PATA leadership predicted a future of regional travel dominance. With rising airfare costs and increasing environmental awareness, long-haul tourism may become less viable. Asia’s intra-regional strength, where 80 per cent of arrivals come from neighbouring countries, positions it well for this shift. “We must stop assuming tourism equals Western arrivals,” said Peter Semone, Chair, PATA. “Our biggest spenders may already be next door.”