Industry leaders will meet face-to-face this weekend for the World Travel & Tourism Council’s annual global summit in Mexico.
The event will be the first top level gathering since the Covid-19 pandemic struck the sector and halted all major events around the world in March 2020.
They will discuss their experiences and share best practice on topics from kick-starting recovery to how to enhance sustainability and inclusivity.
The summit in Cancun aims to act as the platform for recovery where a roadmap will be defined to take the sector towards restarting international travel and existing in the ‘new normal’.
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WTTC will also launch a women’s initiative to work towards removing existing barriers within the sector and to implement initiatives for greater success.
Keynote speakers include former president of Colombia Juan Manuel Santos; tennis legend and advocate for women’s issues and the environment, Martina Navratilova; Greek tourism minister Harry Theocharis; Saudi Arabia tourism minister Ahmed Al Khateeb; Hilton chief executive Chris Nassetta and Carnival Corporation chief executive Arnold Donald.
Executives from Marriott International, IHG, Iberostar, Expedia, Google, American Express, Airbnb, Japan Airlines and Tui are among those due to attend.
Leaders from The Travel Corporation, Abercrombie & Kent, Royal Caribbean Group and Silversea Cruises are speaking in debates under the conference theme of ‘Uniting the World for Recovery’.
WTTC has ensured strict health and hygiene protocols are in place to protect participants, with testing available for delegates for the duration at the Moon Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico, with thousands expected to join virtually.
WTTC president and chief executive Gloria Guevara said: “The most influential leaders from both the private and public sectors will meet face-to-face for the first time in nearly a year as we begin a new chapter in the sector’s post-pandemic recovery.
“More than ever, as governments begin to re-open their economies, it is vital we share knowledge and best practice among travel leaders and political leaders to navigate our way to a responsible recovery.”
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