The Asia Pacific Outdoor Lodging Association (APOLA) will spotlight the rise of high-end glamping in Asia during a masterclass on August 31 at Angsana Hotel, Laguna Phuket, followed by discussions at the Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism (PHIST) forum on September 1.
The session will explore opportunities in the outdoor lodging sector, which APOLA projects to grow at an annual rate of 10.8% between 2025 and 2030.
The expansion is being driven by changing traveler preferences, with eco-conscious guests showing increased interest in off-grid, solar-powered tented camps, treehouses, cabins, and nature-based pods.
The half-day masterclass aims to provide participants with practical knowledge in finance, sustainability, lodge operations, and guest experience management.
Confirmed speakers include John Roberts of Minor Hotels, Allan Michaud of Cardamom Tented Camp, Michael Sagely of Cloud Collective, Tom Butterfield of Eco Structures, and Ueli Wick of Escape Nomade. Paul Dean, principal of Dean and Associates, will moderate the event.
“If you are looking for ideas and insights in finance, sustainability, lodge operations or guest experiences, the outdoor lodging masterclass promises to be a treasure trove of practical insights,” said Paul Dean, who will moderate the session.
In addition to speaker sessions, APOLA will provide attendees with further expert perspectives and an opportunity to win a two-night stay at Cambodia’s Cardamom Tented Camp.
Registration costs THB1,500 (approximately US$46) and includes refreshments and learning materials, according to Travel Weekly Asia.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality industry, particularly business owners, the event underscores how market shifts in Asia are shaping investment opportunities and consumer demand.
With sustainability and unique guest experiences emerging as priorities, the discussions in Phuket may provide insights relevant not only to Asia-based operators but also to global businesses monitoring growth in the glamping and outdoor lodging sectors.