2017 Summit Delegates Recharge, Reconnect Around Unite. Protect. Lead. Theme

21 November 2017
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Those working in the adventure travel trade industry have always been leaders, charting the course for the tourism industry at large. Fiercely independent as individuals, they recognize their strength and ability to make proactive, positive changes is even stronger when they come together — similar to the gauchos of Salta, Argentina, who successfully defended the country’s northern border in its fight for independence.

At this year’s Adventure Travel World Summit, held in Salta 16-19 October, that spirit was reflected in the event theme, Unite. Protect. Lead. Delegates participated in three full days of inspiring keynote speakers, information-packed educational sessions, immersive experiences, formal meetings, and casual networking opportunities — as well as Pre-Summit Adventures, a Day of Adventure, and an additional Adventure Women Leadership Studio — making this one of the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s (ATTA) most action-packed and forward-thinking annual events yet.

“The Summit is where I go each year to recharge, to regain my sense of community and purpose, and be reminded how my company’s work makes a difference. My further goal is to come away with one new idea that I can take action on,” said Jim Johnson of BikeTours.com. “This year, I left with some powerful content and digital marketing strategies as well as great ideas about how to work with influencers — as well as making or rekindling relationships with several. We’re already hard at work putting some of these strategies and ideas into action.”

For the first time, the ATTA published on-site coverage in the Summit Daily, which highlighted each day’s activities reflected in the event’s overall theme.

Adventure Travel World Summit 2017 by the numbers.

In addition to opening addresses, evening plenary sessions, and three educational tracks — Business Basecamp, Business Drivers, and Game Changers — delegates had ample opportunity to meet and discuss business-related matters with each other. As always, the Marketplace was hopping with activity as buyers and sellers discussed new itineraries and partnership possibilities. A fresh, well-received MediaConnect format offered adventure travel business owners access to an impressive field of international media delegates.

“I made some great new connections, strengthened some existing connections, and wrapped up feeling super inspired, with loads of great story ideas and some interesting prospects for travel content collaborations,” said Sarah Reid, a freelance travel writer.

Of course, this annual event wasn’t all about work. Innovative technological experiences encouraged delegates to think holistically about their place in the world. A number of cocktail hours featuring food and entertainment from sponsors let delegates kick back at the end of busy days. And a football game held one morning pitted Argentina against Brazil; Brazil won with a penalty kick.

View photos from this year's Adventure Travel World Summit. Thank you to the partners that made the event a success.

Register now for the 2018 Adventure Travel World Summit in Tuscany, Italy.

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