Pacific Storytelling Specialist Programme

As the Pacific region becomes increasingly popular among tourists, travel advisors must understand the various tourism products and services available in this area. The Pacific Storytelling Specialist Programme, formerly the South Pacific Specialist Programme, is designed to provide travel agents with the necessary knowledge and skills to sell Pacific tourism products and services more confidently and passionately.

The Pacific Storytelling Specialist Programme is an accreditation programme that allows travel agents to develop and enhance their knowledge of the various tourism products and services available throughout the Pacific. The programme is focused on upskilling travel advisors and trade and tour operators across the globe about the Pacific region and its tourism products. The programme results in a certification demonstrating that the travel advisor has completed the course and acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to sell South Pacific tourism products and services.

The Pacific Storytelling Specialist Programme was formerly known as the South Pacific Specialist Programme, which was established in 2007 by the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO). The programme was rebranded in 2021 to better reflect the focus of the programme, which is to enhance storytelling and provide an immersive experience of the Pacific region.

To become a certified Pacific Storytelling Specialist, travel advisors must complete a series of e-learning training modules followed by an examination, which is taken and assessed. The e-learning training modules cover various topics, including the history and culture of the Pacific region, sustainable tourism, and the different tourism products and services available in each country.

The examination consists of multiple-choice questions, and travel agents must achieve a passing mark to receive certification. The certification is valid for two years, after which travel advisors must complete a refresher course to maintain their certification.

• Enhancing their knowledge of the Pacific region and its tourism products and services.
• Providing them with the necessary skills to sell South Pacific tourism products and services more confidently and passionately.
• Giving them a competitive advantage over other travel agents who do not have the certification.
• Increasing their credibility and professionalism in the eyes of their clients.