TRAVEL HERO
PODCAST

Deep Dive with Deborah Rothe, Director, ITB Berlin: When, What, Why You Must Attend

In our latest Travel Hero Podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting ITB Director Debbie Rothe in a conversation with podcast host Charlotte Lamp Davies from A Bright Approach. Together, they delve into the details of the upcoming ITB convention scheduled for March 2024 in Berlin, shedding light on what awaits both delegates and exhibitors.

With a comprehensive conference program featuring 17 tracks and over 400 speakers and industry experts, ITB Berlin has solidified its position as the go-to platform for the travel sector to engage in discussions on global matters impacting the industry. The theme for next year's convention is "Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together," encapsulating the ethos that defines ITB Berlin.

Whether your interests lie in diversity, geopolitics, destination trends, or technological advancements, ITB Berlin has a dedicated track for you. As we anticipate tens of thousands of visitors next year, this podcast serves as a valuable resource for you to prepare and plan your schedules accordingly. We eagerly look forward to welcoming you all from March 5th to 7th, 2024.

Deep Dive: Hermione Joye from Google about APAC traveller´s booking patterns

More than a year on from APAC borders reopening, travel is now once again a fact of life. As we finally close the chapter on ‘travel recovery’ and ‘revenge travel’, what lies ahead? How has travel demand been pacing under the cloud of economic uncertainty and inflationary pressures? What has changed in the way that travellers dream, plan, and book their trips today? And where are the biggest pockets of opportunity for travel brands in the year ahead?

In this podcast, our host Charlotte Lamp Davies of consultancy A Bright Approach, talks to Hermione Joye, Sector Lead, Travel and Vertical Search APAC, Google about a piece of extensive research conducted by Google and Ipsos. The research dives into search and booking patterns of the APAC traveller, favourite destination both domestically and internationally and how the behaviour of the APAC traveller has changed significantly since the pandemic. Don’t miss this deep dive into a very vibrant and trend-setting region which already influences global trends.
We look forward to hearing from Hermione Joye live at ITB Asia on Wednesday 25th October where she will present the research findings to attendees.

Trendcast: The current status of Blockchain with Prof. Dr. Alexander Knauer, University of Applied Sciences Mittweida

The future of travel is closely linked to digital innovations. Blockchain, the Metaverse and Generative AI were central topics at the ITB Convention 2023. What is the status six months later?

Let’s ask again Alexander Knauer, Professor of E-Business and E-Entrepeneurship at the University of Applied Sciences Mittweida. Our Blockchain expert at the ITB Convention 2023 explains why decentralized identities and non-fungible token are becoming central topics for tourism and how blockchain also stimulates artificial intelligence.

Trendcast: The current status of Metaverse with Caroline Bremner, Euromonitor

The future of travel is closely linked to digital innovations. Blockchain, the Metaverse and Generative AI were central topics at the ITB Convention 2023. What is the status six months later?

Let’s ask again Caroline Bremner, Senior Industry Manager at Euromonitor, again. Our metaverse expert at the ITB Convention 20223 explains why baby boomers still find it difficult to use virtual technology and how sustainability might push the metaverse.

Trendcast: The current status of Blockchain with Leila Summa, PlayToChange

The future of travel is closely linked to digital innovations. Blockchain, the metaverse and generative AI were central topics at the ITB Convention 2023. What is the status six months later?

Let’s ask again Leila Summa, Managing Director PlayTo Change. Our expert in generative AI at the ITB Convention 20223 explains how Chat GPT & Co are gaining acceptance, what is already possible today and how artificial intelligence will change the travel industry.

Deep Dive: Schubert Lou, COO Trip.com on the Future of AI

In this edition, China is in the spotlight! We are pleased to welcome one of the ITB China Keynote Speakers to our Travel Hero Podcast. Schubert Lou is COO of Trip.com and we will travel into the future with him. Generative AI will transform the travel industry. Find out how booking processes, loyalty programmes, personalised marketing and seamless travel will change. Meet Schubert Lou live at the ITB China Conference.

Blind Date: GenZ Meets Baby Boomer Generation

In our latest ITB Travel Hero Podcast we embarked on something new. We wanted to discuss the GenZ Generation and their expectations of the workplace a created a blind date of two generations. In this engaging podcast we hear from Lea Pflug (Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences), who’s just embarking on her career and Hans-Ingo Biehl (VDR), who is nearing retirement age.
Not only was it fascinating to discuss how much the workplace has changed and to learn more about the next generation’s expectations and wishes for a good work/life balance, it was also encouraging to learn that many wishes of the Gen Z generation are mirrored by generations who went before.
Listen to our moderator Charlotte Lamp Davies of A Bright Approach as she introduced Lea and Ingo for the very first time and see how the “blind date” unfolded. They touched on topics including: Workspace changes, and expectations of the GenZ generation of work and the workplace. What excites them and how older generations adapt and adhere to the pace of change? From talks to reduce the work week to 4 days, hybrid working models, blended travel and expectations from the offset of the GenZ generation. Do join the conversation. Communication is key.

Deep Dive: LGBTQ+ Tourism in Eastern Europe – how to get involved

ITB Berlin is the leading international travel trade show for LGBTQ+ Tourism. In this month’s Travel Hero Podcast our host Charlotte Lamp Davies of management consultancy A Bright Approach speaks to Pavel Subrt, co-founder East meets West, a network of LGBTQ+ professionals and their allies from (mainly) Central & Eastern Europe. His insight highlights how the travel industry can get more involved in the debate to not only ensure it captures this travel community but that it also supports the ongoing conversation about inclusion in travel. Pavel says authenticity to engage and push the agenda is key. There is also a commercial angle here if you wish to get involved. The LGBTQ+ communities are keen travellers, as diverse as any other community and travel should do all it can to capture this group of travellers. As with most things getting involved requires some persistence, but the efforts will be well worth it as travel pushes this important agenda.

Trendcast: Latest Chinese market insights from ITB China

In a series of ITB Travel Hero Trendcasts, we ask travel insiders and analysts around the world about the current situation in important travel markets. Lydia Li, Deputy General Manager of Messe Berlin Shanghai is not only looking forward to ITB China opening up in September, but above all to the speedy recovery of the travel business in China, which started rapid with domestic travel earlier this year and increases now to long-distance travel as well.

Trendcast: Latest German market insights with Neusta Data Intelligence

In a series of ITB Travel Hero Trendcasts, we ask travel insiders and analysts around the world about the current situation in important travel markets. Andreas Wulfes, CEO of Neusta Data Intelligence, has deep insights into current business in ITB's home market of Germany. He reports on the current booking situation and which destinations are particularly popular this summer for German holidaymaker.

Trendcast: Latest global and US market insights with Phocuswright

In a series of ITB Travel Hero Trendcasts, we ask travel insiders and analysts around the world about the current situation in important travel markets. Charuta Fadnis, Phocuswright's Senior Vice President Research, shares insights and data into Phocuswright's unique database. She explains how the global travel business is recovering after the pandemic, what the situation is like in her home market of the USA and which mega trends tourism should adapt to.

Deep Dive: Blended Travel with Euromonitor International

Based on new work from Euromonitor International that looks at whether blended travel is here to stay, its part to play in changing the way we travel for the better, and whether travel is actually building back better. During our latest Travel Hero Podcast we discussed the opportunities and future of blended travel with Stephen Dutton , Client Insights Research Manager at Euromonitor.

Deep Dive: Destination & Booking Trends – Q1 2023 with Skyscanner

Talking about travel trends, how was Q1 2023 going?

Skyscanner is no stranger to research and its latest Horizon Report just published is showing booking patterns returning to pre-pandemic numbers and a desire to travel long haul is rapidly returning. During the new episode of our Travel Hero Podcast we discussed the research paper in detail with Mike Ferguson, Director of Destination Marketing at Skyscanner. Find the full trend report by Skyscanner at reports.skyscanner.net/.

Let's Talk: The Indian Traveler

This week the spotlight is on India! While ITB India is happening in Mumbai, we sat down with Daniel Dsouza President and Country Head for Leisure SOCT Travel, who shares some insights on the Indian traveler. Learn about the changed consumer behaviors in this fast-moving country, popular destinations within the country and abroad and what the Indian traveler actually seeks.

300 Seconds with Caroline Bremner & Stephen Dutton | Euromonitor International

Did you hear about "blended travel" yet? And what exactly is this "metaverse"?
Caroline Bremner, Senior Industry Manager and Stephen Dutton, Client Insight Research Manager at Euromonitor International explain in just 300 seconds what exactly the metaverse is, what is hidden behind the term blended travel and what connects the two trends.
You want to delve deeper? Then don't miss the ITB Berlin Convention Sessions with Caroline and Stephen on 7 and 8 March: www.itb-convention.com/program.

300 Seconds with David Roland | Head of Brand Partnerships DACH at TikTok

Travel is one of the largest and fastest growing categories on Tik Tok” says David Roland, Head of Brand Partnerships DACH at TikTok. The platform is a great chance to interact in a new way with consumers and learn from them at the same time – it’s not a one way street! There are opportunities for all players in the tourism and travel market to succeed on the platform! How? And who does it right? David enlightens us!
PS: Join the session “AIDA on TikTok – how to become a love brand for everyone” by TikTok at this year’s ITB Berlin Convention on Wednesday, 8 March to learn more about how travel brands can benefit from the rise of TikTok.

300 Seconds with Kathrin Anselm | General Manager Airbnb DACH, CEE & Russia

Tune in these 300 seconds with Kathrin Anselm, General Manager DACH, CEE & Russia at Airbnb and Lea Jordan, Co-Founder, techtalktravel.
Find out how Airbnb caters to new travel trends with new features and how overall business, guests and hosts are impacted by those developments.
For borader insights, don't miss Kathrin and Lea during this year’s ITB Berlin Convention at the Marketing & Distribution Track on 8 March!

300 Seconds with Amanda Du | Head of eCommerce at Penta Hotels Worldwide

Within these 300 seconds moderated by Lea Jordan, Co-Founder & Head of Marketing at techtalk.travel, Amanda Du, Head of eCommerce at Penta Hotels Worldwide, untangles the buzzwords Metaverse, Webfree and NFTs. She analyses how these concepts impact our lives and how we’ll do business. Moreover Amanda shares learnings and specific examples from Penta Hotels on how to reward, recognize and engage with customers on a totally different level.
Hear out more insights from Amanda Du during this year’s ITB Berlin Convention at the Hospitality Tech Forum and the Marketing & Distribution Track!

300 Seconds with Dr Zinon Zinonos | Pafos Smart City Project Manager

Pafos’ Smart City Project Manager Dr. Zinon Zinonos explains how Pafos was able to stand out as 2023 European Capital of Smart Tourism.
The European Capital of Smart Tourism is an EU initiative that is promoting the concept of smart tourism in European cities. It does this by awarding smart tourism leaders, encouraging the sharing of best practices and promoting smart destinations. The 2023 Capitals are Pafos (Cyprus) and Seville (Spain).
Representatives from Pafos will be in Hall 1.1 at ITB Berlin 2023.

Trendcast: Latest global and US market insights with Phocuswright

In a series of ITB Travel Hero Trendcasts, we ask travel insiders and analysts around the world about the current situation in important travel markets. Charuta Fadnis, Phocuswright's Senior Vice President Research, shares insights and data into Phocuswright's unique database. She explains how the global travel business is recovering after the pandemic, what the situation is like in her home market of the USA and which mega trends tourism should adapt to.

300 seconds with Mr. Li Baochun | Deputy Secretary General | WTCF

DMOs are on the base of a trade-off between marketing and management, overtourism and undertourism, private and public sectors, analogue business models and digital innovations... The new challenges in climate protection and innovation management are as clear as the specifications and orders are indifferent.
"Mastering Transformation" by WTCF: How is the situation in the world, in China and in cities especially?
Hear Mr. Li Baochun, Deputy Secretary General of WTCF on what to expect from ITB Berlin Convention Co-Host WTCF at the ITB Destination Track on 9 March 2023 at 12:40.

300 seconds with Douglas Quinby | ARIVAL & Charlotte Lamp Davies | A Bright Approach

“Bringing loads of people together to have amazing experiences”, that’s basically the essence of the Technology, Tours & Activity sector.
Just like many other segments, TTA has undergone some pretty big changes in the last couple of years. Especially the consumers have changed: who are they, what do they want?
Eavesdrop this conversation between Charlotte Lamp Davies, Founder, A Bright Approach & Douglas Quinby, Co-Founder & CEO, ARIVAL, on how to master transformation in the TTA sector and what to expect from the TTA Forum on 8 March at this year’s ITB Berlin Convention.

Let's Talk: Shortage of skilled labor in tourism - the industry & employer perspective Sabrina Westphälinger, Accor & Kathrin Gollubits, 25hours Hotels

How to make people stay? What motivates employees? What leads longterm motivation at work? How to optimise HR processes? How to drive change and adapt to the current employee requests?
Hosted by Laura Schmidt, Co-Founder of Elevatr, Sabrina Westphälinger from Accor and Kathrin Gollubits from 25hours Hotels share valuable insights from their employer perspectives from the hotel industry.
Just two examples: Accor launched an “Employee value proposition”, a promise to their employees in return for providing work with 4 pillars. 25hours, the self-proclaimed “party queen” amongst hotel chains, provides a proactive employee-driven approach encouraging employees to develop themselves and their strengths further.
A must-listen to everyone interested in employer/employee success stories!

Let's Talk: What travelers value most | James Marshall, Expedia Group & Sabine Bierlein, ITB Berlin

In this episode we talk to James Marshall, Head of Account Management for Air Partnerships at Expedia.
The Traveler Value Index 2023 reveals how traveler preferences have shifted over time, revealing insights and gaps about the perception of specific trends from the traveler’s side and the side of industry professionals.
One of the gaps in perception between the two groups of respondents: the value of pricing. While travelers expect the best (sometimes even atypical) pricing when booking online, industry professionals do not see it as that important.
Discover what else Expedia revealed, how the requirements and requests have changed and hear the answer to a rather bold question at the end: "Do you book all your holidays on Expedia yourself?"

Let’s talk: Shortage of skilled labor in tourism – the scientific perspective with Prof. Dr. Stefan Remhof

In this episode Prof. Dr. Stefan Remhof, professor at IU International University, shares the perspective on shortage of skilled labor from a researcher’s point of view.
The IU conducted a study analyzing aspects that motivate employees to stay at their workplace.
One outcome: The higher the motivation, the higher the satisfaction. But that's easier said than done, isn't it? So Remhof shares viable success factors for employers. Here are only a few: Keep employees motivated, give feedback, show anticipation and communicate.
Another interesting finding (by the way, proven in our previous episode on that topic, too!) concerns Gen Z who demand freedom and guidance at the same time, which leaves employers challenged as these two seem to be quite contradictory. But there is a solution!
Tune in for a very inspirational talk with Prof. Dr. Remhof and host Laura Schmidt, Co-Founder of elevatr.

Let's Talk: Shortage of skilled labor in tourism: The perspective of the next generation of employees

Kicking off this series of four episodes, Laura Schmidt (Co-Founder, elevatr), welcomes Pia and Stefan, both currently students, who share their visions about working in the tourism industry. They talk about the requirements they have for future employers, the importance of remote work and hybrid working models, passion over payment, the opportunity to grow, trust, intangible benefits, where they search for job offers and much more. A must-hear for all employers trying to understand the next generation of employees.

Deep Talk: Social Media Content Creation & Measurement | Anja Olivieri, Agorapulse & Teresa Baumgarten, ITB Berlin

In this epiosde we explore the untapped potential of Social Media content creation and measurement. Anja Olivieri, Regional Manager DACH at Agorapulse, shares valuable survey insights not only about reasons why to use Social Media, how to choose the right channel for your business and why and how to measure your success on the platforms - but so much more. Most of all: Anja shares handy tips on how to do Social Media in tourism right.
So: start using all your potential and start measuring!

Let's Talk: Green IT | Virginie Corraze, Amadeus & Rika Jean-Francois, ITB Berlin

As we all know by now, in order to combat climate change each and every person must reduce their carbon footprint. One approach is to drive forward digitalisation. However, what initially may seem to be “green“ could in itself be the cause of huge greenhouse gas emissions. This is where green IT wants to promote greater sustainability – with both hardware and software. Amadeus’ membership to the Green Software Foundation (GSF) aligns with their broader commitment to create a more responsible and sustainable travel industry. Learn more about Amadeus' approach and understanding of Green IT in this podcast episode.

Let's Talk: Tourism & TikTok - how city marketing is using the fastest growing social app to reach Gen Z audiences | Johanna Rüdiger, Journalist and TikToker; Laura Peper, Visit Bremen & Claudia Neumann, KölnTourismus

TikTok was the most downloaded app in 2020. What started as a lip-syncing and dancing app has now evolved into a serious platform for information, debate and discussion. Especially for the one target group everyone wants to reach: Young people. Tourism also plays a big role on the platform, but the most successful travel accounts still belong to individual content creators.
How can the travel industry use TikTok to promote destinations and travel products? In this episode, Johanna Rüdiger talks to two people who can tell you exactly how to do it and what the benefits are - because they're already doing it!

Let's Talk: Sustainability & Offsetting in Tourism | Moritz Hintze, MD & founder, bookitgreen; Kai Landwehr, Marketing Manager & Press Officer, myclimate & Rika Jean-Francois, CSR Commissioner, ITB Berlin

Can being sustainable and making good money work together? Is it possible to find a way to travel, to keep impact limited and still earn money as a company?
This is exactly what we discuss in today’s Deep Dive – with our guests from bookitgreen and myclimate.

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 11: Katrina Leung, Singapore

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

Let's Talk: The role of the travel agency and the day of the travel agency | Thomas Bösl, CEO, Raiffeisen-Tours RT-Reisen GmbH & Sabine Bierlein, Senior Product Manager, ITB Berlin

Even before the Corona crisis, travel agencies were facing enormous challenges. Increasing digitization posed an ever greater challenge to the classic players in the market. Younger target groups in particular are increasingly researching their vacation options online and booking there in ever greater numbers. The past two years did not make it any easier for travel agencies. The Corona pandemic brought many agencies to the brink of their existence. Hardly any income was offset by an increased consulting effort. Many travel agencies were forced to repeatedly make cancellations, changes and new bookings for their customers. The difficult situation was exacerbated by a glaring shortage of staff, as many employees were reorienting themselves professionally and new recruits were extremely hard to come by, and not only in this industry. Now, a war has recently been added to the mix, causing additional uncertainty among travelers. But can the fact that the world seems to be lurching from one crisis to the next also be an opportunity for travel agencies?

Let's Talk: Hiking in the middle east | Ben Hoffler, Co-Founder, SINAI TRAIL & Marinel de Jesus, Sustainable tourism activist & Founder

Do you want to hear an inspirational story about hiking in the Middle East? And what the role of women has to do with it?
Ben Hoffler, Co-founder of the SINAI TRAIL and Marinel de Jesus, Sustainable tourism activist who has walked the trail, will provide you with an insight into this fascinating experience and share with you the background stories about this truly community-based Bedouin project!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 10: Charlotte Lamp Davies, England

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

300 seconds with Luarsab Togonidze & Archil Kikodze | Folklorist & Eco-Guide| Georgia

After our little social media journey through Georgia, our host country in 2023, we now have something for your ears: In this episode, two georgian personalities talk about their country. On the one hand it's about eco-tourism and bird watching, on the other hand it's about hospitality. Explore the vibrant culture immersed in the unique nature of Georgia and listen in now, when it's "300 seconds with..." again.

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 9: Sanna Pedersen, Sweden

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 8: Simone Jacke, South Africa

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 7: Prasanth Nair, India

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 6: Philipp Schrödinger, Fuerteventura

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

Deep Dive: Community-based Tourism | Antje Rahn, ATC Namibia, Thomas Bohlander, Gebeco & Prof. Dr. Christian Baumgartner, FH Graubünden & response & ability

How can local communities be supported in building resilient tourism projects? Futouris members like Gebeco support local communities and indigenous groups (e.g. a Khwe community in Namibia) in their projects to independently develop and implement tourism offers in order to generate a stable income in the long run. But what if tourists stop coming? The Corona pandemic, with its resulting travel restrictions, has resulted in a month-long absence of travelers and deprived such community-based tourism projects of their foundation. As a result, many local communities and indigenous groups in particular are struggling to make ends meet. At the same time, the pandemic has clearly shown the opportunities that lie in "community based tourism" offers: if tourism is built up as an additive source of income alongside agriculture and existing infrastructures (e.g. home-stays) are used, this enables greater resilience. What are important success factors for a resiliently positioned CBT enterprise? What are the learnings from Futouris -member projects from the last 2 years with Corona? Can community participation and the benefits of tourism for local people become a key factor in product development and marketing for the travel industry as a whole? In a critical conversation, Futouris members Gebeco and ATC Namibia meet Prof. Dr. Christian Baumgartner.

Let's Talk: Tourism Resilience, Self-Reliance and New Work | Eugen Triebelhorn, Country Manager Germany ,Travelperk & Valentin Gruber, Chief Operating Officer, HomeToGo

We encounter the term and concept of resilience in many aspects of life. People asked about how they’d define it, might say it is about one’s ability to bend but not break, bounce back, and perhaps even grow in the face of disadvantageous or negative life experiences. The American Psychological Association (2014) defines resilience as “the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or even significant sources of stress.” Sure, this definition gives you the gist – but it does not reflect the complex nature of resilience and its biological, psychological, social and cultural factors that interact with one another: Just because one adapts well to stress in a workplace, this does not mean they also do so in their personal life. At work, especially New Work, resilience plays a major part – particularly relevant in our era. The Covid-19 pandemic we have been facing for almost two years completely turned our already rapidly changing world of work upside down. It gave New Work another digitalization boost. And even companies that had long opposed digital change had to resort to digital solutions. The pandemic obviously also had an impact on tourism. Which is what Tourism Resilience is about: an industry’s need, to adapt to those current challenges. In economic jargon, self-reliance refers to the inward development of a country – meaning that it does not export raw materials but uses them in its own country. On an individual level, self-reliance is described by the Cambridge Dictionary as “the quality of not needing help or support from other people”. Therefore, self-reliance is the ability to rely on your own efforts, abilities, powers and resources, rather than that of those around you. Apart from an individual’s or a country’s, this can also be transferred to a company’s self-reliance – which is what we especially want to focus on in this podcast.

Deep Dive: What is a green butler? | Christopher Warren, CEO & Founder, MyGreenButler & Rika Jean-Francois, ITB Berlin

What is a "green butler"? An easy-to-use sustainability management platform that uses gamification and eco-feedback to persuade guests, staff and tourist accommodation owners to effectively reduce carbon emission through conserving energy & water & cutting waste. That sounds interesting, doesn’t it? ..and it’s fit for business: As a cloud-based SMART tech solution with science-based results, it monitors multiple resource types, audits carbon and records financial savings in real-time. The amazing part is that everyone is involved: Guests and staff enjoy being involved and are highly motivated to help conserving resources - it’s actually their behavior which is in the center of this sustainable hospitality management tool. Learn more about the story behind it when our CSR Commissioner Rika Jean-Francois chats with Dr. Christopher Warren, Founder & CEO of My Green Butler

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 5: Bettina Bork, Lanzarote

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

Deep Dive: ITB Berlin Convention 2022 | Christina Freier, Sabine Bierlein & Rika Jean-Francois from ITB Berlin

From 8 to 10 March 2022, the ITB Berlin Convention, a leading thinktank and the largest travel industry event of its kind, will focus on solutions regarding resilience, digitisation and sustainability. Numerous leading speakers will talk about the global challenges facing the travel industry, share their unique expertise, provide orientation and take a look at the future.

This podcast aims to preview this year’s ITB Convention and, as a kind of kick-off event, to take a look at the key topics. What will we be doing in 2022, and why? And how are we moving forward with the key topics of recent times?

*Please note: the podcast was recorded before the emerging current crisis, so no reference was made to it

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 4: Russell Lord, Tel Aviv

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 3: Yvonne Coulin, Nuremberg

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 2: Harald & Mike, Curaçao

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

What's up with the ITB Berlin Bears? | Episode 1: Andrei Blumer, Bucharest

5 years ago we interviewed people from all over the world for the 50th anniversary of ITB Berlin.
The last 5 years have been incredibly exciting and challenging for the entire tourism industry. That's why, on the occasion of the 55th anniversary, we conducted interviews with the Representatives of the time to find out how they have fared in the last 5 years since our last visit, how the pandemic has affected their work and how they have dealt with it.

Listen for yourself!

300 seconds with Daphne Tsevreni | Co-Founder & CFO | Clio Muse Tours

Clio Muse Tours was awarded for the eighth Sustainable Development Goal – Decent work and economic growth. Launched in 2014, Clio Muse Tours has developed advanced technology tools and content for thematic tours focusing on gastronomy, architecture and dark tourism, among many others. It has developed over 300 virtual tours, offering tourism and culture professionals the opportunity to create audio and virtual tours of landmark sites, as well as city walks and roadtrips.
In our newest episode we asked Daphne Tsevreni, Co-Founder & CFO of Clio Muse Tours: "What were the biggest challenges in combining tourism and sustainability?"

300 seconds with Lisa Zink | Dresdner Stollenmädchen | Dresdner Christstollen®

Meet Lisa Zink, the 27th Stollenmädchen from Dresden who is the official representative of Dresden’s Stollen Baking. The Dresden Christstollen is a delicious Christmas treat first recorded in 1474 and part of the Christmas tradition in Saxony. The original Stollen can be recognized by its golden seal of quality.

Deep Dive: Is Sustainability the New Digital? | Lea Jordan, Co-Founder, techtalk.travel & Willy Legrand, Professor, International University of Applied Sciences

This is a dive deep into sustainability and digitalisation. Recent natural disasters and severe weather events have increased the urgency to act. The tourism industry in particular has an enormous impact on global warming - so it is only understandable that we in this industry need to pay special attention to it. The last time the world faced a similar upheaval was with the digital revolution some 20 or 30 years ago.

Lea Jordan and Willy Legrand talk in this episode about the important concepts of digitalisation and sustainability. Together they will address the question "Is Sustainability the New Digital?".

300 seconds with Celina Distler| Sportlerin | Celventures

Entdecke das Erzgebirge auf dem Stoneman Miriquidi Road – folgt Celina Distler, einer jungen gebürtigen Fränkin, die ins Erzgebirge gezogen ist und von der Natur und vor allem den Bike-Tracks der Region ganz begeistert ist in unserer neuesten Podcast-Episode.

Auf dem Stoneman Miriquidi Road erlebte Celina 290 km pure Rennrad - Emotionen mit 2 Ländern, 13 Rampen und 4.900 Höhenmetern inmitten idyllischer Natur

300 seconds with Oliver Winter | CEO | a&o Hostels

On its way to becoming Europe's first zero-emission hostel chain, a&o Hostels is already looking at a "sustainability agenda" with more than 170 measures. There are, of course, obstacles to overcome in the process.
So we asked the CEO Oliver Winter: "What challenges do you face and how do you overcome them?"

300 seconds with Simone Jacke | Director | Strandloper Boutique Hotel

"What does luxury in tourism mean when paired with authenticity and respect to location?”
Insights from a hotel director in Paternoster, South Africa.

300 seconds with Ayako Ezaki | Expert Coordinator | Tourism Declares Climate Emergency

"Tourism Declares Climate Emergency: How can you join this movement and how can businesses and individuals take action to reduce their carbon emissions and the like?"
Insights from an Expert Coordinator for Tourism Declares Climate Emergency

300 seconds with Katarina Thorstensson | Sustainability Strategist | Gothenburg & Co

"Gothenburg: a true pioneer in sustainability! What can we expect from Gothenburg as 2020 European Capital of Smart Tourism in terms of sustainability, Mrs Thorstensson?" Insights from a Sustainability Expert, Gothenburg, Sweden.

300 seconds with Marc Sanderson | International Economic Development Director & European Capital of Smart Tourism Spokesman | City of Malaga, Spain

"How does the 2020 European Capital of Smart Tourism Malaga approach digitalisation and will this be the future of tourism after COVID-19?" Insights from the International Economic Development Director & European Capital of Smart Tourism Spokesman, City of Málaga, Spain.

300 seconds with Lea Jordan | Co-Founder & Head of Marketing | techtalk.travel

"Are there new trends in digitisation evolving in the travel and hospitality industry right now? And if so, which trends are we talking about exactly?" Here are valuable insights on trends by industry expert Lea Jordan.

300 seconds with Dhruv Bhatia | Founder & CXO | Live From Earth Media

"How can tour operators and travel agencies prepare for the rise in global travel demand, and what role does digitalization play then?" Insights and tips from a forward looking creative agency."

300 seconds with Dr. Heike Döll-König | CEO | Tourismus NRW e.V. | Tourist Board North Rhine-Westphalia

"North Rhine-Westphalia: trendsetter, creative and inspiring – what does the region have in store for urban explorers and city lovers?" Join this 300 second audio tour through the urban areas of North Rhine-Westphalia.

300 seconds with Keta & Beqa Goletiani | Co-founder “Spend Four Seasons in Georgia” & Regional Athlete and Sports Marketing Manager of Red Bull Middle East

"Sustainability and adventure travel: is it a dream come true in Georgia?" The Goletiani siblings from Georgia have the answer!

300 seconds with Veronika Hiebl | CEO | Tourismus Marketing Gesellschaft Sachsen mbH

"Mrs Hiebl, why is Saxony Germany's no. 1 cultural destination?"
Insights about a German state full of touristic highlights - this is the Official Culture Destination of ITB Berlin NOW: Saxony.

300 seconds with Matthias von Randow | Executive Director | German Aviation Association (BDL)

"How can global air transport get back on its feet, Mr. von Randow?“ Insights by an expert from the German Aviation Association on the future of air travel.

300 seconds with Ulrike Braun | Director Corporate Responsibility | DER Touristik & Matthias Beyer | CEO | mascontour

"Verändern Millennials das Reisen von morgen?" Die Antwort haben Frau Braun und Herr Beyer! Sie sprechen über Kernergebnisse einer Studie zum Reiseverhalten von Millinials (German only)

300 seconds with Richard Gray | Senior Vice President, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | Greater Fort Lauderdale

"Dear Richard, what exactly defines LGBT+ travel and why is it so important for tourism providers to actively include all identities?" Insights on LGBT+ travel from Greater Fort Lauderdale.

300 seconds with Viktoria Urbanek | Travel Blogger | Chronic Wanderlust

"The life of a travel blogger in times of COVID-19 – what are the changes and chances, Viktoria?" Insights from a travel blogger and travel enthusiast.

300 seconds with Bastian Raschke | Head of Industry FMCG & Travel | Facebook

"Which forms of travel do Facebook user appreciate the most, Mr. Raschke?" Insights from Facebook, build technologies that help people connect with friends and family, find communities, and grow businesses.

300 seconds with Caroline Bremner | Head of Travel Research | Euromonitor

"What do you say, Ms. Bremner: Will we recognize the travel industry once COVID-19 is cured?" Insights from Euromonitor, the world's leading independent provider of strategic market research.

300 seconds with David Ruetz | Head of ITB Berlin

"The future of trade shows: where are we headed, Mr. Ruetz?" Insights from ITB Berlin, the World's Leading Travel Trade Show.

Blind Date: Communities | Ian Cumming, Travel Massive meets Philip Ibrahim, The Student Hotel

Ian and Philip didn't know they'd meet each other for this podcast episode but we knew exactly one topic that unites them: Communities! Out came a very open first meeting and some very useful insights on how to build and engage communities.