ABTA goes for Barcelona but no UK event
Saturday, 19 Dec, 2008
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ABTA;s Travel Convention is to be staged in Barcelona next year.
But the association has ruled out the idea of also running a UK event as well despite the idea being raised at the year’s convention in Gran Canaria.
The Barcelona convention will be held on October 6-8, meaning that Spain will host the event for the fourth time in succession.
ABTA said its board considered expanding the convention for 2009, enhancing it by putting on a UK event.
“However it was felt that 2009 was not the right year to try out a new format, although this will most certainly be considered in the future,” a statement said.
Chief executive Mark Tanzer said: "We are thrilled to take The Travel Convention to Barcelona for the first time, one of the world’s leading cities.
“Spain has come through time and again as a committed supporter of ABTA and The Travel Convention and we can be sure of a first class event."
Ignacio Vasallo, director of the Spanish Tourist Office, said: “The relationship between Spain and the UK travel industry is a key priority for the Spanish Tourist Office and we are delighted that Barcelona has been chosen as the venue for one of the UK travel industry’s most important events – the fourth year running that Spain has been selected.
“Our figures show that we welcomed over 16 million UK visitors in 2007 and Barcelona is one of the UK’s most popular destinations.
“There is never a dull moment in the vibrant beachfront city and we look forward to welcoming the delegates of The Travel Convention to Barcelona in 2009.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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