Tourism ministers from throughout Asia gathered in Macau on June 13 to discuss the region's tourism growth and strategies to deal with it at a ministerial roundtable conducted by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). According to the organization, travel patterns have been changing: 20 percent of people traveling internationally are heading to Asia, and people who live in the region are heading overseas, as well. In 2005, about 156 million travelers visited Asia, an increase of more than 7 percent. During the roundtable session, discussion focused on how to manage crises that affect tourism; how to increase arrivals through simplifying visas and conducting effective promotion; and how to protect the region's natural attractions and cultural treasures. Visit [www.unwto.org].
