By Geoff Percival,Stephen Aherne
Copyright ittn
The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) Annual Conference is taking place this week in the captivating Center of Portugal. The theme for this year’s conference is ITAA – Our People Our Future based on the core value of people remaining at the heart of travel agent’s work.
Delegates will be on-site from this Wednesday 1st through to Sunday 5th of October 2025, staying in Alcobaça which is located in the Center of Portugal region.
The ITAA Annual Conference offers travel industry professionals valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from Ireland and abroad, while engaging with the key issues shaping the future of travel. Alongside the professional programme, delegates will discover the unique culture and hospitality of the region through a variety of activities and experiences. Specially arranged excursions, including a dedicated golf day, will give travel agents first-hand insight into the destination, equipping them with the knowledge and inspiration to promote the Center of Portugal with confidence to their clients.
Clare Dunne, CEO of the ITAA said: “The Annual Conference is a highlight of the travel trade calendar in Ireland, as it provides us with an opportunity to meet with our colleagues from both home and abroad, as well as discover more about the beautiful Center of Portugal region. These events are essential for allowing the important partnership between Ireland and Portugal to continue to grow at every level of tourism, culture and business.”
Rui Ventura, President of Visit Center of Portugal said: “We are delighted to host the ITAA Conference in Center of Portugal this year and we are very much looking forward to welcoming the Irish trade to our region Beautifully placed between the mountains and the coastline, the region has much to offer the Irish people with magnificent natural scenery and unique character from its remarkable historical and cultural background. Highly regarded as a sustainable destination, Center of Portugal is an ideal destination for events and incentives.”
Carlos Pinto de Oliveira, Director of Visit Portugal in Ireland said: “With over half a million Irish visitors to Portugal in 2024, the market is growing and we regard it as significant. Travel agents visiting regions, such as Center of Portugal, which are outside of traditional Irish holiday maker destinations is important for this growth to continue.”
President of the ITAA, Tom Randles, commented: “The Annual Conference is a very important event for ITAA members and we very much appreciate the hospitality of Visit Center of Portugal. Year on year, Portugal is one of the top destinations for the Irish holidaymaker. It is essential that we continue to grow and nurture the special bond between our two countries.”
