THE International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) 2011, the ‘invitation-only’ event where future luxury travel experiences are created and launched, saw almost 50,000 individual meetings between the industry’s elite in Cannes last month. By introducing over 1,250 high-end travel suppliers to over 1,250 VIP buyers, the 10th anniversary edition of ILTM demonstrated that it is the only meeting point for the industry’s movers and shakers.
“ILTM goes from strength to strength. 2011 has been the best yet. It remains one of the most well organised and relevant trade shows for the luxury travel industry,” said Mike Bonner, general manager UK, Ireland & Middle East at Silversea Cruises.
Michael Morejon, vice-president business development at Sentient Jet, said: “ILTM has reminded me of why I am so passionate about being surrounded by luxury professionals from around the globe. The detailed planning has made my first ILTM an epic experience and we are particularly delighted with the incredible demand from emerging markets.”
First time exhibitor Carolina Ortiz, marketing director of Columbia’s Hotel Charleston, said: “Judging by our fantastic meetings, we foresee excellent results from our first ILTM experience. The pre-scheduled meetings are so very well organised and planned and we were blown away by the opening night forum and inspirational speakers.”
Kitch Cheung Kit Yeung of Beijing’s Hua Yang International Business Travel said: “There is huge potential from the Chinese market; my clients increasingly want to visit small and unique destinations so ILTM is vital for my planning. Our targets are small luxury hotels and transport in global destinations and I’ve found them all here.”
ILTM marketing manager Simon Mayle said: “We are delighted our 10th edition has been such a success.”
The next ILTM will take place from December 3-6, 2012 at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes, France.