The Association of Touring and Adventure Suppliers (Atas) has announced Leeds as the host city for its upcoming annual conference, enhancing the visibility of the city in the tourism industry.
- Claire Brighton, Atas director, shared this news at the association’s inaugural overseas event in Lake Como, Italy.
- The conference is scheduled to take place on October 15-16 at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, promising various activities and networking opportunities.
- Attendees of the Lake Como event praised the diverse range of activities, including boating and pasta-making, aiming to dispel myths about escorted tours.
- The event highlighted the demand for responsible tourism and new engagements among younger audiences.
The Association of Touring and Adventure Suppliers’ decision to select Leeds as the location for its annual conference marks a significant milestone for the city in the tourism sector. Claire Brighton revealed this development during a special event held on the scenic shores of Lake Como. By choosing Leeds, Atas aims to showcase the city’s potential and expand its role in the tourism industry.
Scheduled for mid-October, the conference will be held at the Royal Armouries. This venue promises a fitting backdrop for the array of activities and learning sessions that Atas plans to offer. These include workshops and networking events designed to enrich the professional experiences of attendees, fostering greater collaboration among agents and suppliers.
The preliminary event in Lake Como featured a variety of activities aimed at changing perceptions about touring. From boat trips to pasta-making, these experiences were designed to demonstrate the wide-ranging appeal of tours beyond older demographics, thereby attracting newer audiences. A post-activity workshop allowed attendees to share their insights and experiences, potentially shaping future tours.
Speakers at the event, such as Flavio Zappacosta from the Italian National Tourist Board, underscored the importance of promoting sustainable and responsible tourism. With initiatives focusing on ‘hidden gems’ and off-peak travel, the discourse aligns with current trends that emphasise thoughtful exploration.
The series of events planned by Atas throughout the year, such as the forthcoming webinar on Earth Day and various training modules, aim to enhance the knowledge and abilities of travel agents. These initiatives reflect a strategic approach to positioning Atas at the forefront of the evolving travel landscape.
The selection of Leeds for the Atas annual conference is a pivotal step towards redefining touring perceptions and fostering industry growth.
