Ljubljana, Slovenia
Registration Information 21–23 September 2014
Hosted by
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
The Power of Personal How to marry change and continuity – that’s the challenge we all face today, in our personal lives, in business, and in the political world.
Whether you’re working with destinations developing
How to embrace the
and continuity than the vibrant and charming city of
opportunities that
Ljubljana, which is building a new tourism vision for
new product, or thinking about how to get at emerging market segments, or selling travel directly to the customer – The Travel Convention will bring you new insights, provoke new thoughts and allow you to share your experience with fellow senior travel professionals. I can’t think of a better venue for the theme of change
technology and social change bring, building on the
Slovenia on a rock solid heritage.
skills and values that have made us who we are,
Those of you who don’t yet know Ljubljana will I am
without losing our identity.
sure, like me, fall for it. I look forward to seeing you
This year’s Travel Convention will meet that challenge
there in September!
head on: we’ll be looking at the global trends and
Mark Tanzer
events that are reshaping our world; we’ll be looking
Chief Executive
at the way in which technology and major shifts in
ABTA
consumer power are leading to a revolution in travel and tourism; and we’ll be focusing on practical steps that businesses are taking as they prepare for a future that will be very different to the past. The internet, comparison websites, social media – all of these are redefining how the customer thinks of himself or herself. Data allow us to understand the
Learn from experts and learn from each other, at the most significant travel industry event of the year.
customer as an individual, and to deliver customised service in a way never possible before. The drive to personalisation is gaining momentum in every sector.
www.thetravelconvention.com @TheTravelConv
Lead Partner
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
SLOVENIA: Green. Active. Healthy. Slovenia is counting down the days until The Travel Convention. It is the first time that Slovenia and Ljubljana will host this prestigious event.
Take you into the kingdom of Goldhorn – in the Slovenian Alps; turn you into a seeker of the flower of salt – on the Slovenian Coast; lure you into the underground world, among the dragon’s offspring – in the Slovenian Karst; stir your enthusiasm among waters that deliver well-being – in Slovenian Spas; make memorable experiences in the shadows of mighty trees – in Slovenian forests; surprise you in the city with love in its name – in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana; interlace with toasts
What makes Slovenia such
of “Bon Appétit” and “Cheers” – in Slovenian gostilnas;
a different and special destination? Slovenia is a green
and connect you with people in Slovenia who surpass
boutique country in the heart of Europe, bringing
boundaries and inspire with their striking achievements.
together the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Your visit to Slovenia is also an invitation to experience
Plain and the Karst.
green tourism in the form of genuine, conserved and It is a country with a colourful history, rich cultural
unspoilt nature. The logo of Slovenia and Slovenian
heritage and amazing unspoilt nature, being the
tourism, I FEEL SLOVENIA on a green background, is no
third-most forested country in Europe! Slovenia has
coincidence. It is a reflection of what is unique about
plenty of water. Everywhere you go you will find
Slovenia and of what we Slovenes are particularly
streams, rivers, lakes, underground karst waters and
proud: our unspoilt green countryside.
curative thermal springs. We look forward to seeing you in our green country! Let us bring you closer to the real story of Slovenia,
Headline Sponsors
which is the story of love that holds together all
Karmen Novarlic
Slovenian diversities. It will…
Head of Slovenian Tourist Board
Hosts
www.slovenia.info
www.visitljubljana.com
@SloveniaInfo
@visitljubljana
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
About the Event ABTA’s annual Convention has evolved with the industry and continues to develop each year to ensure its value and relevance for delegates.
Event Format
The Travel Convention is the UK travel industry’s flagship event; providing
and individual needs.
inspiration to delegates through an outstanding programme of thought-provoking content, to challenge the way you think and approach your business. The Convention has now established its identity as the forward-looking event in
The Convention takes place over three days, with the event format constructed to provide an opportunity to design a bespoke schedule to meet both your business
This year’s Convention includes: two days of business sessions; a Convention Hub for business networking; two lunches; two evening parties; a Convention Bar, as well as sporting events and optional activities within the host city and further afield.
the travel industry calendar, providing the opportunity for ABTA’s Members and the wider industry to understand what lies ahead and to shape the travel industry of tomorrow, rather than be shaped by it.
Delegates The Travel Convention is attended by decision makers, influencers and opinion
The Convention also offers the best opportunity of the year for you to
formers spanning the full breadth of the mainstream and specialist travel sector;
constructively network with peers and industry experts with ample time
from cruise lines, tour operators, hotels and airlines to all types of travel retailers.
throughout the programme for both business and social networking.
It is also attended by travel industry specialists, such as accountants, lawyers and insurance providers; as well as those providing broader business knowledge and advice, from technology providers to marketing experts. The Travel Convention attracts more leading travel journalists from the UK national, consumer and travel trade press than any other UK travel conference held overseas. Numbers for this year’s Travel Convention will once again be capped at 600 to provide delegates with the optimum event and networking experience.
2013 HIGHLIGHTS >> 4
Speaker sound bites and delegate feedback from the 2013 Travel Convention have been captured in this highlights video.
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
Convention Venue This year’s Travel Convention will take place in Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia. Ljubljana – whose name means ‘the Beloved’ – is a compact city that is packed with atmosphere, and with a mix of old charm and new cool! Full of artists, students, music, unusual architecture and good restaurants, there is plenty for delegates to enjoy. The business programme will take place at the GR – Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre, located just a few minutes drive from the Old Town. Two of the city’s leading properties – Grand Hotel Union and Hotel Slon – will provide a choice of delegate accommodation; both conveniently located just a few steps from the Old Town.
Host Destination This will be the first time The Travel Convention has been held in Slovenia. British visitors currently rank third in Ljubljana’s tourism statistics by nationality. The 2014 Travel Convention being held in this historical city, recognises the growing importance and untapped potential of the region to the UK travel market, and provides an opportunity for you to develop closer, mutually beneficial working ties with our Slovenian hosts. 5
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
Business Sessions The Power of Personal This year’s business session theme is The Power of Personal. In future, travel companies will need to focus on the customers’ experience with their company, not just on their products and customer service. You will need to know your customers, their expectations, their preferences and what kind of relationship will
Each year, the business session programme is themed to ensure that the presentations carry a consistency of message and relevancy. The foundation of every Travel Convention is developed around four key pillars:
work for both them and you. Connecting one-to-one with every individual in your target audience comes with challenges; not least dealing with the sheer volume, variety and velocity of big data.
• what lies ahead; from technology, demographics and the environment
But as travel changes course, having a 360 degree view of your customer and how to
to changing social values and consumer behaviour.
meet their individual needs through personalisation will be essential.
• the latest issues and trends affecting ABTA, its Members and the wider travel industry.
• insights into best business practice, as well the commercial and marketing innovations coming down the line.
• quality networking with travel industry peers, industry specialists and travel media, as well as ABTA’s Board and senior management team.
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SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
Programme of Events Sunday 21 September Sunday is the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Ljubljana – either
Sunday 21 September
at leisure or by joining one of our complimentary walking tours – or to visit
07:00 –14:30
Golf Tournament and Prizegiving Lunch **
09:30 –15:00
Šmarna Gora Hike and Lunch **
Convention Golf Tournament, the traditional Football Match and a Hike to
10:00 –16:00
Postojna Cave Excursion **
Šmarna Gora. Slovenians are generally very fond of nature and keen to spend their
10:00 –17:00
Lake Bled Excursion **
demonstrate our green, active and healthy credentials!
10:00 –12:00
Ljubljana Walking Tour **
If you are looking to Grow Your Network, head for Knafljev Prehod (a thoroughfare
12:00 – 19:00
Private Events
12:30 –14:30
Ljubljana Walking Tour **
nautically themed pub, the Cutty Sark.
15:00 – 17:15
Football Match **
With a Slovenian feast and entertainment provided by our hosts, the Slovenian
15:00 –17:00
Ljubljana Walking Tour **
Castle is guaranteed to be memorable.
17:00 –19:30
Grow Your Network – Knafljev Prehod
After the party, head to As Aperitivo – the social hub for this year’s Convention.
18:30 – 21:00
Lead Partner Supper*
19:45 – 20:00
Transfers to Welcome Party
20:00 – 22:45
Welcome Party – Ljubljana Castle
Return Transfer
Slovenia’s best known tourist attractions before the business of the Convention gets underway. There are also three great sporting activities including: the return of the
time at leisure in an active way, so this is the UK travel industry’s opportunity to
located just a minute’s walk from the Convention hotels). Ideal places to meet for pre-dinner drinks are the Convention Bar, As Aperitivo, as well as the pleasant and
Tourist Board and Ljubljana Tourism, this year’s Welcome Party at Ljubljana
From 22:45
23:00 – 03:00
* By invitation/ticket holders only
Lake Bled Postojna Cave 8
Convention Bar – As Aperitivo
** Optional – to be booked in advance
ABTA reserves the right to change the programme as outlined in this brochure.
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
Programme of Events Monday 22 September
Monday 22 September Located in the Convention Centre lobby, the Convention Hub will provide the perfect setting for private meetings, networking and catching up with industry
08:15 – 09:30
Shuttle Transfers to Convention Centre
08:30 – 16:30
Convention Hub
08:45 – 09:30
ABTA Press Briefing***
sessions, commencing at 08:30. Attendance at this event is by invitation only.
08:30 – 09:45
Travel Weekly Breakfast Briefing*
The Convention’s plenary sessions will commence with a series of sessions about
09:50 –10:00
Opening Ceremony
10:00 –13:00
Business Sessions
13:00 –14:30
Lunch and Convention Hub
14:30 –16:30
Business Sessions
Return Transfers
Tourist Board and Ljubljana Tourism.
16:45 – 20:00
Grow Your Network – Knafljev Prehod
After the party, head back to the Convention Bar where you can party on into
18:00 – 20:00
Private Events
18:30 –20:00
Meet the Media *
Walk to the Host Party
From 16:30
From 20:00
20:15 – 22:45
Host Party – Ljubljana Summer Theatre
23:00 – 03:00
Convention Bar – As Aperitivo
colleagues from 08:30. The Travel Weekly Breakfast Briefing will take place before the start of the plenary
Our World, which will set the scene for the industry debates to follow. After lunch, we’ll be focusing on Our Industry and the latest issues and trends affecting ABTA’s Members and the wider travel industry. Set within the courtyard of the former Monastery of the Holy Cross, the Ljubljana Summer Theatre (the Križanke Outdoor Theatre) will provide the perfect setting for the Host Party, organised by our destination hosts, the Slovenian
the small hours.
Following the close of sessions at 16:30, head for Knafljev Prehod (a thoroughfare located just a minute’s walk from the Convention hotels) to Grow Your Network.
* By invitation/ticket holders only *** Press only
As Aperitivo 11
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
Programme of Events Tuesday 23 September
Tuesday 23 September Once again, the Convention Hub will provide the perfect setting for you to hold private meetings,
08:15 –09:30
Shuttle Transfers to Convention Centre
08:30 – 16:00
Convention Hub
from 08:30.
09:50 –13:00
Business Sessions
On the second morning of the Convention, the
13:00 –14:30
Delegate Lunch and Convention Hub
insights into best business practice, as well the
14:30 –16:00
Business Sessions
Return Transfers
From 16:00
16:45 –18:45
Ljubljana Walking Tour **
From 16:30
Grow Your Network – Knafljev Prehod
From 19:00
Private Events
22:00 –03:00
Convention Bar – As Aperitivo
** Optional to be booked in advance
network and catch up with industry colleagues
sessions will focus on Your Business, providing commercial and marketing innovations coming down the line. After lunch, delegates will come together to hear from a superb line up of speakers who will round off this year’s Convention. As ever, delegates can expect the finalé to include some memorable moments before the official business of the Convention closes at 16:00. On Tuesday evening, you will have a final opportunity to join a Ljubljana Walking Tour; explore the city at leisure and continue to Grow Your Network at As Aperitivo.
Private Events There are more than 12 hours available within the Convention programme for private events. Please avoid hosting events during the official Convention activities and check with the Convention organisers before booking your function. 12
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
Registration
Accommodation
Visit www.thetravelconvention.com to register Standard registration fee (valid from 1 March 2014)
Net
VAT*
Total
£585.00
£128.70
£713.70
ABTA Members Delegate
Once registered, you will receive an accommodation
ABTA Partners First delegate
£585.00
£128.70
£713.70
Additional delegates
£750.00
£165.00
£915.00
Delegates
£750.00
£165.00
£915.00
Companions**
£210.00
£46.20
£256.20
Other Delegates
* Slovenian VAT at 22% is chargeable on delegate registration fees and local activities, such as excursions. ** A companion must be a delegate’s spouse/partner and not a business colleague or other associate.
When registering, delegates have the opportunity to help others by making a donation to ABTA LifeLine. Every pound donated will be used to help colleagues and their families in need. www.abtalifeline.org.uk 14
Special room rates for delegates are available via our official accommodation provider, Inghams, at the Grand Hotel Union and Hotel Slon. booking link as part of your confirmation email.
THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
Grand Hotel Union The first modern hotel in Ljubljana, the 4-star Grand Hotel Union had its grand opening in 1905. Situated in the heart of the city centre, it overlooks Prešeren Square, the Triple Bridge and Ljubljana Castle. In 1979, the Grand Hotel Union Business was built as a modern extension to the mighty Art Nouveau hotel offering comfortable, renovated rooms with luxurious amenities. This extension interconnects with the original hotel. The Oxalis Wellness Spa is located on the 8th floor of Union Business and includes a swimming pool, sauna and fitness centre. Price (per room per night) Single Occupancy
£109
Double/Twin Occupancy
£122
Rates include buffet breakfast and taxes.
Hotel Slon VIEW LOCATION MAP
The Best Western Premier Hotel Slon is situated in the heart of Ljubljana city centre, only a few steps away from the old city, Ljubljana Castle and all the main city sights. This 4-star superior hotel has well-appointed rooms with modern facilities and amenities. The hotel features a state of the art fitness centre open 24/7 including saunas with tropical rain showers. Price (per room per night)
Each room is subject to a £15.50 plus UK VAT booking fee.
Single Occupancy – Economy Room
£95
Single Occupancy – Comfort Room
£109
Double/Twin Occupancy – Comfort Room
£122
Rates include buffet breakfast and taxes. 15
SLOVENIA // 21-23 SEPTEMBBER 2014
Lead Partner
News brands reach more people than ever before; every month 41.9 million adults read a news brand, than search using Google. To welcome this increase in customer demand, we have developed our Portfolio even further. In addition to our award winning standalone weekend sections and popular iPad edition, we now offer destination apps, quarterly luxury travel magazines and several Telegraph lifestyle events such as The Telegraph Cruise show and Ski and Snowboard show, but to name a few. Editorially, we have also made changes to appeal to today’s modern traveller, while remaining a trusted source for our loyal readers. Our focus is to make it as easy as possible for Telegraph customers to plan with the experts and book with confidence, achieving this through our unparalleled expertise, trusted consumer advice and inspirational writing. When you consider all of this, plus the fact that The Telegraph one of the most popular news brands in the world and an audience that spent a massive £10.8 billion on holidays last year – we believe that Telegraph Travel is the most exciting destination in the market. To discuss how we can best promote your holidays, contact the Travel team on 020 7931 3090.
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THE TRAVEL CONVENTION
Headline Sponsors
First Data Merchant Solutions is an expert in the payment solutions business. With products and services designed specifically for the travel sector we are delighted to once again be able to display our commitment to this important sector through our support of The Travel Convention for the fourth consecutive year. We are part of First Data – a global industry leader with over 40 years’ payments experience.
2014 is a very meaningful year for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, as we celebrate a milestone tenth anniversary of our headline sponsorship of the prestigious Travel Convention, one of the most important and influential events in the travel calendar. We would like to thank all our travel trade partners for their continued support, which has been invaluable in helping us to grow our business over the years.
To find out more call us on 0800 652 5808* Monday to Friday 09:00 to 17:00 * Telephone calls may be recorded for security purposes and monitored under quality control process. First Data Europe is authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA register No. 582703). www.firstdatams.co.uk
Building strong relationships and working closely with the travel trade remains of great importance to Fred. Olsen, and The Travel Convention is a excellent opportunity for us to meet our key agents and tour operators, updating them on our latest developments and sharing important feedback. We will be cruising to an impressive 245 ports in 81 countries in 2015/16, and we know that we can rely upon the knowledge, expertise and passion of our agent network to ensure that our key message of ‘Bringing the world closer to you’ is spread far and wide. www.fredolsencruises.com 17
www.thetravelconvention.com email: moreinfo@thetravelconvention.com tel: 01920 444830 twitter: @TheTravelConv / #ABTA14
Photographs: I. Boncina , F. Ferjan, P. Hieng, A. Kuchno, D. Wedam, Postojna Caves, Slovenian Tourist Board.
For further information visit