WTM: Events & Parties at World Travel Market London

Wow, wow, wow, where should I start?! It is this time of the year again the WTM – World Travel Market in London is calling. I am visiting it since 2008 as in my opinion it is the best, most important and most international travel fair in Europe, maybe even in the entire world. Every time I am amazed how awesome it is. This year I have even gotten my own table at the Blogger Speednetworking Event. If you want to attend, here are some insights from my visit at WTM 2014.

As a blogger you have the chance to get out even more of your stay at the World Travel Market by visiting several Parties and Networking Events which take mostly during the evenings. Networking, getting to know new people, meeting old and new friends, partying, becoming part of the WTM blogger family and simply being happy and grateful for being part of the best branch to work  – the travel and tourism branch where everything is more easy-going, more human, enthusiastic and full of the joys of life than in other industries – at least that’s what I experienced after working in this sector for over 10 years now.

You should catch up on all (blogger-)seminars and (speed-)networking events via WTM app, register as press in order to get access to the press centre as well apply for the Blogger Speednetworking event. Given that your blog is big and good enough.

Besides the ones listed below there are also other private organized blogger parties, events and many stand events like the Cuba Night or the Nordic Blogger’s Experience. Regarding all events and their dates you can get information in the Facebook group WTM Blogger Crew, via Facebook or directly at the WTM. Here you will find an overview over the most important events:

Friday: Traverse Mingle

Mingle means mix and this event which always takes place Friday prior the World Travel Market has the aim “to give bloggers, PR’s and travel industry people the opportunity to talk, network and have fun without any agenda”. This year it takes place in the brand-new Hilton Bankside Hotel. Bottom line: As expected a classy night in the Hilton Ballroom in good company of many travel bloggers and members of the tourism industry. Unfortunately, some have not arrived which has made the huge room appear empty. You should definitely secure your free ticket online well in advance. Start: 19.45. Dress code: Business casual. Info here.

Monday: Travel Massive

“Travel Massive connects thousands of travel insiders to meet, learn and collaborate at free events all around the world.” This year the Travel Massive Party took place in the Strawberry Moon Pub including a photo machine with social sharing feature and free drinks sponsored by Thomas Cook Airlines. Mexican flair and numerous bloggers, big and small, old and new mixed with members of the tourism industry and many further visitors of the WTM. Bottom line: There is no competition only like-minded people and friends. Unfortunately, the music was a bit loud so that it was hard to exchange. But all in all very well-organized party at a nice location with good atmosphere. Tickets: Free online registration necessary. Start from 20.00. Entrance: free. Dress code: Casual to business casual. More info here.

Photo credit: Danik Bates, Nordic Bloggers Experience, Travel Massive & Ocean Belcher

Tuesday: Sponsor Host Party

Every year another country takes the role of the WTM sponsor and organizes a huge party. The Mexican Tourism Board was the sponsor in 2015 and has invited to an immense fiesta in One Mayfair on Tuesday. A great event, decoration in Day of the Dead James Bond Spectre style which has been partly filmed in Mexico. Great speech from Mexican tourism minister as well as from the representative of the Mexican embassy in London. Bottom line: Met many new and interesting people and old friends. Tasty finger food and many drinks for free. Awesome decoration but the DJ… well. Entrance to the party is via guest list only. Try to network with the specific board or tour operators in advance in order to get invited. Start after 19.00. Entrance: free. Dress code: Business casual.

Wednesday: WTM festivals

Every Wednesday many stand parties take place at the World Travel Market. This year the hall of Latin America and Africa was rocking the house. Typical local music, dancers, drinks and great atmosphere inclusive. Even one member of the Black Eyed Peas has sent the crowd into raptures. Entrance free. Start:18.00 – 20:00. More info here.

Thursday: WTM Farewell Party

This year the Budget Traveler and the guys from iAmbassador have invited to the WTM Farewell Party into the Wombats Hostel. I did not take part as after seven nights of partying and four long fair days I was too exhausted. But I was told that it has been a great party and a cosy end of the WTM with many travel bloggers. Make sure to secure your free ticket online in advance!