The ITAA Annual Conference 2024 in Almería focuses on the theme “RISE: Relevant, Innovative, Strong, and Essential,” addressing key strategies for success in the evolving travel industry, including maximising business value through profitability and efficiency.
This event offers travel industry professionals opportunities for networking, skill enhancement, and insights into the international travel trade, along with cultural experiences in Almería, which is known for its stunning scenery and rich history.
Clare Dunne, CEO of the ITAA, highlighted the conference as a key event for the travel trade in Ireland, promoting partnerships between Ireland and Spain, particularly in tourism and cultural exchange.
Delegates will stay at the 4 Star Barceló Cabo de Gata, with planned visits to local attractions such as Cabo de Gata natural park and the Alcazaba fortress, making the conference both educational and immersive for participants in the travel industry.
Sessions at the conference will cover modern airline retailing trends (personalised offerings, dynamic pricing), sustainability efforts in the travel industry, and innovations in global payment solutions to enhance customer interactions.
Attendees will also benefit from discussions on the importance of personal health and resilience, with strategies for maintaining physical and mental well-being being emphasized to support professional success.
The conference aims to provide valuable insights and foster connections among travel professionals, encouraging collaboration and the sharing of ideas to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the travel sector.
Registration here
Speakers
The conference will be moderated by Eoghan Corry, owner of Travel Extra, Speakers include:
- Caryn Bishop; Senior Account Manager, Paxport: Caryn brings over 15 years of corporate travel experience, having worked with suppliers and buyers. In her current role, she aids customers in resolving travel management challenges and streamlining airline connectivity, focusing on enhancing revenue through efficient processes.
- Natalia Bóveda Ranea; Marketing Executive, Visit Costa del Sol: With over 20 years in the travel and tourism industry, Natalia Bóveda has extensive experience across leisure, cruise, airline connectivity, and technology sectors. She regularly speaks at conferences focused on sustainable tourism, showcasing her insights on the industry’s evolution.
- Roberto da Re; CEO, Travel Ledger: An entrepreneur with nearly 30 years in travel technology, Roberto da Re is dedicated to innovation in B2B billing and invoicing. His work aims to transform traditional practices in the travel sector, driven by a passion for challenging the status quo.
- Clare de Bono; Associate Director Strategy & Transformation & Country Manager, Amadeus: Clare has been with Amadeus since 2016, previously leading global initiatives at STA Travel. Currently, she heads global strategy and transformation projects while serving as the UK Country Manager, having advanced from her role in Product Management for Amadeus Front Office Solutions.
- José Antonio González Perez; Jefe Negociado Promoción, Turismo Almería: As the leader of the Tourist Promotion Department for “Costa de Almería,” José Antonio has been pivotal in promoting the region as a tourist destination since 2011. His efforts include participation in various events and trade fairs to enhance Almería’s visibility both nationally and internationally.
- Stephanie Healy; Nutrition, Health & NLP Mindset Coach, Stephanie Healy Coaching: Stephanie empowers professionals to improve their health and mindset, focusing on busy individuals in demanding careers. Her coaching supports clients in managing stress, building confidence, and achieving a strong mind-body connection to prevent burnout and enhance overall well-being.
- Yvonne Muldoon; Director of Sales, Aer Lingus: With over 28 years of aviation experience, Yvonne is a key player in Aer Lingus’ senior leadership team. She oversees Global Online Travel Agents and Regional Sales teams, and is currently managing the sales integration for the Atlantic Joint Venture with major airlines like American Airlines and British Airways.
- Aisling Murphy; Head of Distribution Product Delivery, Aer Lingus: Aisling is instrumental in the successful rollout of Aer Lingus’ new distribution capabilities. Her current focus involves enhancing the digital customer journey through innovative Offer and Order strategies, aligning business objectives with cutting-edge digital solutions.
- Anthony O’Mara; Founder, ARAMO Business Consulting: With 30 years of experience in finance and technology, Anthony O’Mara specializes in coaching, consulting, and advising businesses to enhance profitability and long-term value. He has a strong focus on growth strategies, operational efficiency, and business transformation, particularly in the travel industry.
Excursions
A guided visit to Parque Natural Cabo de Gata-Níjar showcases the unique climate, volcanic soil, and diverse flora and fauna of the geopark, offering stunning coastal views, pristine beaches, and spectacular natural landscapes, making it the largest protected area on the Mediterranean coast.
Visitors will have an educational experience at Clisol Agro in El Ejido, exploring various intensive agricultural techniques used in Almería, including traditional vineyards and modern greenhouses, concluding with a tasting of local produce like olive oil, bread, and honey.
The itinerary includes visits to three hotels—Hotel Playadulce, Best Sabinal, and Playacapricho—each providing comfortable accommodations and amenities such as pools, restaurants, and family-friendly features, located in scenic areas near the beach.
All visits intend to offer a holistic experience, combining relaxation with educational insights into the region’s natural beauty, agricultural practices, and leisure options.
