DELEGATES’ VIEWS
Diana Cherry, director of operations, Oxford Private Travel After many years of attending travel networking events, it was a revelation to attend Connections in Abu Dhabi. The event delivered what it promised: productive experiences, lasting relationships,
relevant industry insights and a renewed sense of direction and strategy for my business.
Should apps ease luxury trips?
Delegates at Connections in Abu Dhabi debated the need for luxury travel suppliers to develop mobile apps to meet a growing need to offer a seamless travel experience. Mobile expert Ewan Macleod
(pictured) asked guests to split into groups to debate the motion that businesses purveying luxury products and services faced extinction by 2019 if they did not develop consumer apps. Macleod cited cumbersome
processes at airports, hotels and eateries that could be simplified by the introduction of software, adding: “Why do I always have to sign for everything in a luxury
ABOUT: Connections Luxury
Connections Luxury brings together leading suppliers and buyers of luxury travel from around the globe in spectacular settings. The invitation-only events are for strictly limited numbers, and feature memorable experiences and thought-provoking sessions designed to create lasting business relationships. Connnections is part of Travel Weekly Group, and has expanded its concept into the meetings and incentives arena. The next Connections Luxury event is in Beijing this month, with future events in Brazil, Italy, Thailand, Portugal, Spain and Ecuador. › Find out more at
micaela@weareconnections.com
hotel or resort? The hotel should know who I am; I don’t want to have to provide a signature each time I require a service.” Macleod’s motion caused some
debate, with the group asked to oppose the motion arguing that luxury consumers do not demand apps and automation as much as the mass-market, and also pointing out that connection issues and the
desire for the occasional ‘digital detox’ were also
barriers to an app-led experience. However, most delegates
agreed efforts should be made to streamline users’ experience, with apps as one option.
Mundher Al Shikhani, founder and chief executive, Leading Vacations, UAE It was a great pleasure to be a part of Connections Luxury. I had the honour of meeting many experts in their fields and developed my knowledge by interacting with
each of them during the meetings. The event adds a great value to my business.
Tricia Warwick, vice-president international sales and marketing, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi It was a great insight for me. I really enjoyed the quality of the conversations and learned many new things and met several new people. The experiences are a
great ice-breaker and lead the conversation in a stimulating direction for both parties.
John O’Ceallaigh, luxury travel editor, The Telegraph Though consumers’ expectations may seem higher than ever, the industry is doing an incredible job of meeting them. I’m constantly surprised by the innovations I encounter through my work
and the debates I participated in during the Connections Luxury round-tables indicated that there are many more to come.
Karen Sloane, head of global leisure sales, Etihad Airways I found the Connections Luxury show to be a unique way to meet and bond with high-end buyers. Being able to spend quality time with them was invaluable. Having the event in our home of
Abu Dhabi was perfect for us to showcase the destination and our product offering.
8 October 2015
travelweekly.co.uk 19
PICTURES: MATT SPRAKE
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