SALEM, Ohio — For travel planners, attending conferences isn’t only about networking. It’s also about discovery, education and inspiration.
Frances Sheets, a planner who recently attended the 2025 African American Travel Conference (AATC) in Buffalo, New York, shared heartfelt appreciation for the experience, emphasizing just how valuable these events are for industry professionals.
“The Group Travel Family goes above and beyond to make their conferences educational and well organized for both suppliers and buyers,” Sheets said. “I’m eager and motivated to sell new destinations that I came in contact with because that’s my purpose for attending.”
Events like AATC offer planners direct exposure to emerging destinations and travel experiences they can share with their clients. Beyond the opportunity to build itineraries, attendees also connect with fellow professionals, gain insights through peer conversations and leave feeling empowered to grow their travel businesses.
Feedback from attendees reinforces the value of these events.
“I can only speak for myself, but I hear good things from others while at the conference,” Sheets added. “So, I say a job well done. Every category under the Group Travel Family is well needed.”
Travel conferences serve as a gateway for planners to stay current, inspired and connected. For those passionate about what they do, these events are more than meetings — they’re the building blocks that shape the future of group travel.
For more information about upcoming Group Travel Family conferences, contact Cassandra at 800-628-0993 or cblankenship@grouptravelfamily.com.
