Among her hilarious anecdotes and comments (which included the bemusing revelation that her concerts are apparently “like being at a rave”), it was this message – that you will only succeed if you first believe that you can – which seemed to resonate most with the audience.

The agents that I met at Global must certainly have been dreaming of Bolly and Moet. Because in a world where uncertainty is now the only certainty, it was heartwarming and inspiring to hear so many tales of how agents continue to thrive, with many speaking of expansion and shop openings.

The secret of their success is doing things differently, it would appear.

I chaired a panel of three Global members, who discussed how they differentiated themselves: Steve Cartwright, of Cartwright Travel, who explained a focus on solo travellers was bringing in new business; Leighann Morgan from Opulent Travel, who has been using Instagram to target a younger demographic; and Tiffany Woodley of Myriad Travel, who has appealed to student travellers by letting them know they can pay off their holidays in instalments.

For the Global consortium itself, this year has already proved to be a record one regarding new members, with 33 new businesses signing up in 2017 so far. Those that attended were buoyed by plenty of advice to help them succeed – despite the challenges 2017 will undoubtedly throw their way. Cartwright Travel, Opulent Travel and Myriad Travel certainly believe they can do it. Do you?

United against terrorism

Conference delegates were shocked by the news of the Manchester Arena attack. The travel industry is horribly familiar with the devastation caused by terrorism, and agents and operators spoke of the defiance and unity that travel has had to show in the face of attacks in the past – and which the whole country must show now.

Sophie Griffiths

Editor, TTG