The shortening of booking timelines, driven by uncertainty, is likely to be an added challenge for the trade in the foreseeable future, says Adam Armstrong, chief executive officer of Contiki.

Armstrong says the youth market is definitely keen to travel and research indicating a relatively quick rebound in the sector is born out by interest and bookings around the world – including New Zealand  – as the company looks to reboot operations next month.

Three new, ‘off-grid’ trips focused on local and authentic New Zealand experiences have been released by Contiki for 2020-21.

Contiki’s 2020 Europe trips feature new design-led hostel and hotel accommodation.

Contiki has launched five new trips to Patagonia and Colombia and 13 improved trips across Latin America in its latest product release for the region.

There are definite tourism opportunities in partnering with hugely successful social enterprise venture, Eat My Lunch, says co-founder Lisa King.

As part of a partnership with Ngai Tahu Tourism, all Contiki NZ trips that pass through Rotorua visit Rainbow Springs’ Kiwi Encounter as a No Regrets Inclusion.

• Jaime McLaughlin, Jordan Jamieson, Lillie... Jaime McLaughlin, Jordan Jamieson, Lillie...
• Paul Dymond, Wendy Wu Tours;... Paul Dymond, Wendy Wu Tours;...
• Toby Chow, Philippine Airlines; Jay... Toby Chow, Philippine Airlines; Jay...
• Jacqueline Liebenberg, Gilpin Travel; Richard... Jacqueline Liebenberg, Gilpin Travel; Richard...
• Damon Schmidt, Contiki; Shane Ogg,... Damon Schmidt, Contiki; Shane Ogg,...
• Jenna Norton, Victoria Shadad, Flight... Jenna Norton, Victoria Shadad, Flight...
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Asia Now wrapped up with presentations and a Thai dinner at Grasshopper Restaurant central Auckland on Wednesday night. It was the last of six presentations (see TRAVELinc Memo Friday 11 June for a report from the Wellington version). Presenting companies included Singapore Airlines, Wendy Wu Tours, Macao Government Tourism Office, Philippine Airlines, Contiki, Garuda, Francis Travel Marketing / Fathom Asia, and Adventure World.

Contiki and the Tourism Authority of Thailand have created a 360° virtual reality and cinematic Thailand experience aimed at millennial travellers.

The activation is based on Contiki’s new Northern Thai Highlights trip, giving them the opportunity to see a more cultural, authentic side of Thailand. The four destinations on

The four destinations on show are Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai and Kanchanaburi.