Skip to main content

The Travel Agent Australia Day Event was a “standout experience,” according to Belinda van Tholen of Elite Cruising and Tours.

“It was an incredible opportunity to reconnect with existing supplier partners who are already delivering exceptional results for our clients and to discover new partners who will help drive us forward in the future,” van Tholen told Traveltalk.

“The atmosphere was electric from the start – there was an excitement in the room as we looked ahead to the next year and forged deeper connections with brands that align perfectly with our clients’ needs.”

“One of my key takeaways was the realisation that many suppliers have built their business models around addressing the challenges travel advisors face. By partnering with them, it’s truly a win-win for everyone involved.”

Panel discussions “on point:”

The panel discussions, particularly those on AI and marketing, were absolutely on point.

“The insights shared were tailored to our corner of the market and provided actionable ideas that I can immediately apply to Elite Cruising and Tours.

“But one thing stood out for me: despite the rise of AI and technology, nothing can replace the power of personal connection and care. That’s the core of our business at Elite Cruising and Tours, where building meaningful relationships and delivering personalized service is the foundation of everything we do,” van Tholen said.

“The future of travel is bright, and it’s events like these that reaffirm our belief in the value we bring to our clients. I’m already looking forward to the next one!”