Barbados has been confirmed as the destination for next year’s Institute of Travel & Tourism conference.
Travel Weekly reported last week that the Caribbean island was the hot favourite for the event and its choice has been an open secret in the industry for some time.
The decision to return to a destination the conference last visited in 2005 was confirmed at last night ITT President’s Dinner in London. It is the first time the event has returned to a destination. Announcing the decision ITT chairman and chief executive Steven Freudmann teased the audience saying:
“Is is Galway? No, it’s too wet. Is it Malta? No, too small. Is it Qatar? No, they can’t afford us. Is it Cyrus? No, too many goats. Is it Benidorm? No, it’s too, well, Benidorm. Is it Venice? No it’s too expensive. It’s Barbados.”
The conference will be held at Barbados’s Hilton Hotel and organisers have struck a deal with Virgin Holidays for favourable rates.
Delegates will be able to access a deal to fly and stay at the Hilton for £699 which includes access to Virgin Atlantic’s V-Room. Upgrades to premium start at £199 each way and from £579 for Upper.
Petra Roach, vice president marketing and sales Europe for the Barbados Tourism Authority, said: “Work is underway already to make sure everything is handled professionally and to make sure you have an amazing time.
“Those of you who were there in 2005 know exactly what I am talking about. We can’t wait to welcome you again to our beautiful shores.”