THE PORTUGUESE cities of Lisbon and Estoril will host the 2001 ABTA conference after being narrowly beaten by Kos to stage next year’s event.
Newman Street’s decision was taken 10 months earlier than usual without ABTA inviting bids from other locations and was unanimously backed by the association’s board. It was the second time the destination had made a bid to hold the event.
An ABTA spokesman said the decision was taken as Lisbon had submitted such an impressive bid for 2000.
The resort of Estoril, which is about 15 miles from the centre of Lisbon, is expected to host 30% of delegates.
Business sessions will be staged at the 2,200-capacity Lisbon Congress Centre with the sporting events held in Estoril. Dates for the event have yet to be finalised although it is expected to be held at the end of October.