I recently had the opportunity with three of my colleagues, along with 400 other travel experts, to attend the 2026 ATAS conference hosted at Silverstone Circuit on 21-22 September. This was my first time at a travel conference and it certainly didn't disappoint. Over the two days, we learnt more about the world of touring and adventure travel and heard from the experts themselves and discovered more about upcoming developments in touring and adventure travel.
Before the conference began at Silverstone Circuit, we had the chance to explore the China National Tourist Office exhibition. There were different stalls showcasing China which gave us the opportunity to learn more about the country and their culture. We were even treated to a mooncake to celebrate the Moon Festival, which gave us a chance to experience Chinese culture for ourselves.
Across the two days we got to hear from a range of suppliers and experts in the travel industry through conference panels learning more about different areas of touring. We also had the chance to attend the trade fair which provided a great opportunity to meet a wide range of suppliers. Meeting with this variety of suppliers gave me a chance to learn more about their products, destinations and the experiences they offer as well as what's coming up in the future. This was one of the most valuable parts of the conference, as I was able to ask questions to the experts and learn more from them and I can now share my knowledge with our customers and inspire them to visit new destinations.
One of the highlights of the conference was hearing from wildlife filmmaker, scientist and explorer, Lizzie Daly. Lizzie shared with us some of her incredible experiences she has had working with wildlife. From collecting data from blue whales, to discovering the lives of jaguars in Brazil and working in the Arctic Circle with animals like polar bears. Hearing her stories gave such an interesting insight into wildlife and expedition travel. Hearing from Lizzie really highlighted what adventure holidays can offer and what a great experience expedition cruises can be, allowing people to travel areas, that might otherwise be difficult to explore.
We also had the opportunity to hear from Wendy Wu, the founder of Wendy Wu Tours, who shared her story of how she built her company and her experiences of touring. It was interesting to hear how Wendy's own travel experiences inspired her to create her first tour after her husband couldn’t go on a trip they had planned. This then led to her creating tours for other likeminded travellers. It was incredible listening to Wendy talk so passionately about touring which really reflects in the tours that Wendy Wu Tours offer and the experiences they provide for their guests. She was asked of all the countries she has been to, which was her favourite, and she answered with Mongolia! Hearing her talk so passionately about the country has made me inclined to visit there and recommend it to our customers.
To end our first day, we got to celebrate with 'A Night of Incredible Journeys'. We got to enjoy a display of traditional Bhangra dancing, and we were served an Arabian and Italian menu. This evening further allowed us to spend time with other people in the travel industry and enjoy entertainment inspired by destinations all around the world. The following night was an amazing gala dinner hosted by Virgin Atlantic and Delta Air Lines. The evening was a lovely way to celebrate the travel industry, and it was a memorable way to end my first ATAS conference!
After two exciting days of the ATAS conference, I came away with a much more knowledge of the touring and adventure holidays we offer, and I can now use this when talking with our customers. The conference has also given me plenty more destinations to add to my own bucket list!
If you are considering a touring or adventure holidays and would like some inspiration, pop in to see me and the team at Miles Morgan Travel – Wells 01749 671660 or email [email protected]
