ITAA Conference Antalya 2023
ITAA Conference Day 2023 was quite unique as we’re honoured to have a female President Angela Walsh and a female CEO Clare Dunne. Unfortunately, Emma Mc Hugh couldn’t attend due to illness, but it was acknowledged that hard work amongst all the ITAA board members was over and above the call of duty. Our amazing hotel, Concorde de Luxe resort, was very special and no stone was left unturned (apart from at the historical sites which are many and wonderful!) to ensure our comfort. Unfailingly pleasant and helpful staff at Concorde need to take a bow. Our President Angela quoted: “If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far go together”. This was particularly apt as the conference aim was to embrace growth and strategies for success. We were urged to be open to change, try something new and step outside our comfort zones. As always, our Moderator and brilliant MC, Eoghan Corry, led the proceedings and put guests at their ease.
Tuncay Eminoglu from SunExpress advised the incredible growth within his company and that Ireland will see 7 weekly flights from Izmir and 3 weekly rotations to Antalya for 2024.
Timucin Guler from Turkish Tourism stated that tourism from Ireland had exploded since Covid times and figures in future were expected to reach epic proportions. Turkiye is now the 4th most popular holiday destination worldwide.
Oonagh O’Hagan of Meagher’s Pharmacies retold her brilliant personal life story and her business success. Nothing more powerful than people with purpose!
Sinead O’Reilly from Travelport joined us by video link to update us on their retailing platform and technology for agents.
Padraig O’Maille (Galway based mentor) urged travel agents to think clearly and told them they don’t sell airline seats, but they sell destinations.
A panel discussion with Many Denton (Sunway), Jennifer Callister (Royal Caribbean), Brian Hynes (Travel Corporation) Dave Smith (TUI) and Suzanne Rowe (MSC) was lively and engaged. The importance of training was emphasised; stepping up to the plate when problems arose; commitment to trade; knowing your clientele and making sure travellers had adequate insurance.
Gallery
Subscribe to our E-Zine
from latest edition
Spring Hotels Appoints Rodrigo Maroto to Lead Direct Sales Strategy as Integration of Mare Nostrum Resort Continues
New Chief E-Commerce Officer appointment signals next phase of growth as Spring Hotels strengthens trade partnerships and direct booking strategy. Spring Hotels has appointed digital specialist ...
Read more
TAP Air Portugal with Profits for the Fourth Consecutive Year
It is the fourth consecutive year of profitability. In 2025, TAP Air Portugal reported a positive net income of EUR 4.1 million. Recurring net income would have amounted to EUR 46 million, if ex...
Read more
Anthea Turner to sail on MSC Cruises in June to Iceland and the Fjords
Well-loved broadcaster Anthea Turner, known for presenting Blue Peter, GMTV and Wish You Were Here, will be joining MSC Cruises this coming June on board MSC Virtuosa.
Departing from Cork,...
Moon Fever Takes Off
Holidaymakers Inspired by Artemis II Can Take One Giant Leap at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. As the four Artemis II astronauts journey home after travelling farther from Earth...
Read more
Norwegian Group had 2.03 million passengers in March
In March, the Norwegian Group had a total of 2.03 million passengers. Of these, Norwegian recorded 1.68 million passengers, while Widerøe had 350,000. The month was characterised by strong deman...
Read more
Strike Up Some Fun with Turkish Airlines!
Register your team today! One Week to Strike!! The 14th Turkish Airlines Bowling Tournament is officially BACK — and this year it’s bigger, bolder, and more global than ever!
Read more