ITAA Annual Conference taking place in the sun-kissed Center of Portugal

Irish Travel Agents Association look forward to Annual Conference taking place from October 1^st to 5^th.

The Irish Travel Agents Association Annual Conference is taking place this week in the captivating Center of Portugal. The theme for this year’s conference is ITAA – Our People Our Future based on the core value of people remaining at the heart of travel agent’s work.

Delegates will be on-site from this Wednesday 1^st through to Sunday 5^th of October 2025, staying in Alcobaça which is located in the Center of Portugal region.

The ITAA Annual Conference offers travel industry professionals valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from Ireland and abroad, while engaging with the key issues shaping the future of travel. Alongside the professional programme, delegates will discover the unique culture and hospitality of the region through a variety of activities and experiences. Specially arranged excursions, including a dedicated golf day, will give travel agents first-hand insight into the destination, equipping them with the knowledge and inspiration to promote the Center of Portugal with confidence to their clients.

Clare Dunne, CEO of the ITAA said, “The Annual Conference is a highlight of the travel trade calendar in Ireland, as it provides us with an opportunity to meet with our colleagues from both home and abroad, as well as discover more about the beautiful Center of Portugal region. These events are essential for allowing the important partnership between Ireland and Portugal to continue to grow at every level of tourism, culture and business.”

Rui Ventura, President of Visit Center of Portugal said, “We are delighted to host the ITAA Conference in Center of Portugal this year and we are very much looking forward to welcoming the Irish trade to our region Beautifully placed between the mountains and the coastline, the region has much to offer the Irish people with magnificent natural scenery and unique character from its remarkable historical and cultural background. Highly regarded as a sustainable destination, Center of Portugal is an ideal destination for events and incentives.”

Carlos Pinto de Oliveira, Director of Visit Portugal in Ireland said, “With over half a million Irish visitors to Portugal in 2024, the market is growing and we regard it as significant. Travel agents visiting regions, such as Center of Portugal, which are outside of traditional Irish holiday maker destinations is important for this growth to continue.”

President of the ITAA, Tom Randles, commented; “The Annual Conference is a very important event for ITAA members and we very much appreciate the hospitality of Visit Center of Portugal. Year on year, Portugal is one of the top destinations for the Irish holiday maker. It is essential that we continue to grow and nurture the special bond between our two countries.”

This year in Center of Portugal, delegates will stay in the Montebelo Mosteiro de Alcobaça Historic Hotel. The hotel is just a five minute stroll from the historic Monastery of Alcobaça and just meters away from, Alcobaça Castle. Delegates will have an opportunity to explore the area visiting attractions like the Monastery of Alcobaça, an excursion to Our Lady of Fatima Bascilla, and a boat tour of the Nazaré Canyon.

The Center of Portugal is a diverse and attractive region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural heritage. Stretching from the Atlantic coast to the mountainous interior of Portugal, this region is home to a vibrant tradition of gastronomy and craftsmanship. Visitors can enjoy exploring ancient Roman ruins, hiking through lush forests, or tasting local wines the Center of Portugal provides an authentic and immersive experience that captures the heart of the country.

The conference is open to members of the travel trade – Travel Agents, Partners and Suppliers including Travel Trade Media.