Symposium 2024: The Business of Selling Luxury Travel Recap
Earlier this month, we successfully hosted one of our biggest events of the year Symposium 2024, The Business of Selling Luxury Travel!
This event started in Amsterdam and was hosted aboard the fully chartered AmaWaterways' AmaMora river cruise ship. Over the course of five enriching days, attendees embarked on an immersive journey into the realm of luxury travel. Participants gained invaluable insights into attracting, serving, and retaining luxury travelers through live training sessions, networking opportunities, and engaging interactions with industry partners.
The GTN network is a powerhouse that will grow from strength to strength because of the commitment to its agents and partners and the willingness to share skills, information and talents with a “we are in it together to make it happen” mindset," said Kees Hoogerton, Director of Sales & Marketing at Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. I love working with the company which was founded by three extraordinary women.
Now that the GTN team, advisors and preferred partners have returned from Symposium, it is time to recap the highlights from this amazing event!
Welcome Reception:
Symposium 2024 commenced with a vibrant welcome reception held at the prestigious Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, graciously sponsored by Accor and hosted by Kees Hogetoorn. Attendees were greeted with an evening of engaging activities with enticing trip prizes, captivating musical performances, and more. The event set the perfect tone for the Symposium's commencement, providing a platform for networking and camaraderie among industry peers. Attendees embraced the wardrobe theme of "a touch of gold," adding a luxurious flair to the gathering.
Watch our welcome reception video here!
Welcome reception at Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam
Content Sessions:
Throughout the five days onboard the Amawaterway's, Amamora, attendees fully immersed themselves in the Symposium experience; learning, networking and being present in every moment. Each day featured a mix of learning sessions, collaboration groups, insightful panels and partner spotlights. The theme of luxury was consistent in every session: defining luxury, how to service luxury clients, how to find luxury clients, embracing luxury, exploring the world of ultra luxe, indulging, storytelling, and more.
In addition to our speakers, we had 19 partners who shared their luxury expertise through presentations and participation on our panels.
Excursions:
Attendees had the opportunity to explore the enchanting landscapes of the Netherlands through a series of captivating excursions. From the iconic windmills of Kinderdijk to the picturesque streets of Bruges and Ghent, participants immersed themselves in the cultural heritage of these charming destinations. Culinary delights awaited in Gouda, where a walking tour culminated in a delectable cheese tasting experience!
Pictured Above: GTN advisors and staff in Kinderdijk touring the inside of a windmill.