Travelbiz E-Zine
25
October
2023

ITAA Conference Antalya 2023

#Traveltradetogether

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.

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    Aer Lingus adds more direct flights to Cleveland, Ohio for 2025
    20th December 2024

    Aer Lingus adds more direct flights to Cleveland, Ohio for 2025

    Aer Lingus today announces additional frequency on its direct route from Dublin to Cleveland, Ohio, starting from April 2025. The increase in capacity is in response to significant demand on bot...

    Read more
    Turkish Airlines sets world record for flying to most countries
    20th December 2024

    Turkish Airlines sets world record for flying to most countries

    Turkish Airlines has a 30-country lead over its closest competitor in this hard-to-break record. Turkish Airlines has been recognised by Guinness World Records™ for flying to more countries than...

    Read more
    Soccer Coming to Orlando in 2025
    20th December 2024

    Soccer Coming to Orlando in 2025

    Ranked by WalletHub as one of the best cities for soccer (aka association football) fans in the United States, Orlando is giving fans even more reasons to cheer when international teams and supe...

    Read more
    Summer Soccer Camp Kuramathi Maldives
    19th December 2024

    Summer Soccer Camp Kuramathi Maldives

    Island Marketing is thrilled to announce they have teamed up with Kuramathi Maldives & Campioni Soccer Academy to deliver the Ultimate Family Holiday Experience in paradise for Summer 2025.

    Read more
    Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field to host top football clubs including Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid during FIFA Club World Cup tournament in summer 2025
    19th December 2024

    Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field to host top football clubs including Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid during FIFA Club World Cup tournament in summer 2025

    Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field will host eight matches of the FIFA Club World CupTM tournament in June and July 2025. The FIFA Club World Cup matches planned for Philadelphia include six...

    Read more
    Aer Lingus welcomes two new XLR Aircraft to its fleet
    19th December 2024

    Aer Lingus welcomes two new XLR Aircraft to its fleet

    Aer Lingus has taken delivery of its first two new Airbus A321XLR aircraft in Dublin Airport. Registered as EI-XLR St Lelia / Liadhain and EI-XLT St Melanie / Mella, the aircraft are the first t...

    Read more