What's Happening?
TravelManagers concluded its 16th annual national conference in Nusa Dua, Bali, bringing together 510 personal travel managers, suppliers, and partners. The event focused on growth, innovation, and wellbeing, featuring keynotes from notable speakers such as Kath Koschel, NSW Australian of the Year 2025, who shared her inspiring story of resilience and the power of kindness. Koschel's journey from a professional athlete to overcoming paralysis twice highlighted the impact of small acts of kindness. Neuroscientist Milo Wilkinson discussed brain rewiring for clearer thinking, while Dan Krigstein from The Growth Distillery emphasized the importance of emotional connections in consumer decisions.
Why It's Important?
The conference underscored the evolving dynamics in the travel industry, where emotional and psychological factors are increasingly influencing consumer behavior. Koschel's message of kindness and resilience resonates with the industry's shift towards more meaningful and transformative travel experiences. Wilkinson's insights into brain function and Krigstein's focus on emotional connections highlight the need for travel advisors to adapt to these changes, offering personalized and emotionally rich experiences to foster customer loyalty and growth.
What's Next?
Travel advisors and industry stakeholders are likely to incorporate the insights from the conference into their strategies, focusing on emotional engagement and personalized experiences. The emphasis on kindness and resilience may lead to initiatives that promote wellbeing and positive interactions within the industry. As travel managers adapt to these trends, they may leverage technology and human connections to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
