SINGAPORE - A travel fair organised by the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (Natas) opened at 10am on Friday at the Singapore Expo.

The fair is visibly smaller compared to that of previous years and takes up one hall instead of the usual two or three halls. There are more than 90 exhibitors including travel agencies, airlines and national tour organisations, with travel agency ASA Holidays taking up the biggest exhibition space.

Besides offering travel deals, the fair features daily lucky draws, stage performances and a new food and beverage section with international cuisine.

Natas president Devinder Ohri, in his welcome address, urged visitors to book their holidays earlier so that they will be able to travel on the dates of their choice and enjoy better prices. He also emphasised the need for the industry to be united.

"No organisation is an island," he told an audience of more than 200 foreign dignitaries, and travel industry players. "In these uncertain times, we owe it to our partners, stakeholders and consumers, more than ever... to swim in an environment of camaraderie and so prosper together, or go our individual and separate ways and risk our good ship sinking."

Some 24 agencies, led by the "Big Four" - Chan Brothers Travel, CTC Travel, Dynasty Travel and SA Tours - had pulled out of this fair to hold their own later this month.

Natas Travel 2015 is open till Sunday from 10am to 9pm at Singapore Expo hall 8. Admission is free.