The recent conference of The Travel Agent Next Door held in Jordan was a major feat in many respects.

Leading up to conference, there were many logistical challenges to overcome, not the least of which was the volatile situation in the Middle East.

Happily, the conference went off without a hitch, thanks in large part to G Adventures and the Jordanian tourism authorities. Travel agents who attended were full of praise.

We interviewed several attendees to ask why they attend the annual TTAND conference, what they get out of it.

Here are some of their responses …

“The main reason I attend annual conference is NETWORKING with FELLOW AGENTS, SUPPLIERS, and SUPPORT STAFF. There is always something to learn and take away. We are here to support and help each other – and also to have fun together! Putting a face to a name and having a drink with them makes doing business easier and more comfortable.

“It is SO valuable to have suppliers at conference because if you can make a social connection with them, it is easier and more likely they will assist you in increasing sales for your business back home. Plus, I learn something new from them each time I meet them or hear them present. The one-on-ones are a great way to meet new suppliers.”

Aaron Sidenberg, King City, ON

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“The biggest takeaway I have from my time in Jordan is The Travel Agent Next Door is not just a host agency, it is a unique organization that truly takes into consideration the needs of everyone – from every single agent, to the suppliers we work with.  Flemming’s ‘Win Win Win’ is not just a catchphrase, it is the foundation that enables all of us to be successful.

“The annual conference is extremely important to my business, and to my career as a professional in the travel industry. It is a time to reflect on the past year, on our individual and agency wide accomplishments. It is a chance to reunite with other agents, suppliers and support staff who have become friends.  It is a time to become re-inspired, and excited about the coming year in our industry.”

Cathy Wiechnik, Consort, AB & Calgary

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“It is very important to me! I look forward to attending this event more than anything else throughout the year. I also think it is very beneficial to get to know the support office staff. I want them to know me, as well.

“The suppliers are crucial because having a relationship with the BDMs ensures they know who I am and are therefore more willing to assist me with questions or concerns. I also learn how I may be able to sell a supplier/product I may not have thought about, previously. It just opens up so many opportunities.”

Beverley Edgar, Orangeville, ON

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“Holding an annual conference gives everyone a chance to truly feel a part of a community. Everyone who attends has the opportunity to connect, collaborate and build lasting relationships which is so important in a virtual world.

“Building bonds with our suppliers is a valuable tool to have.  Having our suppliers at conference gives us the opportunity to really get to know each other on a professional level.”

Yasmin Herwig, Edmonton

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“The primary rationale for my attendance at Conference is: Networking with other agents who are quite successful in their business. It’s important for me to as they say, pick their brains, in order to determine what makes them stand out and to see if I can incorporate some of those ideas into my own business.”

“Secondly, meeting with suppliers, which is always interesting as contrary to popular belief, the industry is transformative with no products being displayed frequently. Although it is difficult to keep up with these changes, meeting with the suppliers provides a mechanism to build relationships with them in the event one may have a question that is not easily answered.

“Finally, learning about a new Destination such as Jordan this year. This was magnificent as I would never have thought this to be a viable destination, until now of course.”

Monty Dinally, Ancaster, ON