GTM wraps up 41st year in Thuringia

The final day of the Germany Travel Mart was a mix of final tours and farewells as many participants of the GTM prepared to depart following the annual conference and trade show, which took place in the state of Thuringia this year.

A number of media and trade professionals took in last-minute networking appointments or tours of the region; I myself set off early in the morning by bus to check out the nearby Hainich National Park (where travellers can find the relatively new but soon-to-be-world-famous treetop trail) and Bad Langensalza, a medieval town known for its ancient walls, elaborate gardens and spas.

After a day of touring the idyllic countryside, wherein we braved the considerable heights of Hainich's treetop trail (also challenging our bravery from within a wobbly but stable rope cage suspended 40 metres above the forest floor), tasted sausage from the cozy and rustic Hainichbaude restaurant in Craula and enjoyed traditional Japanese tea at the Kofuku No Niwa Japanese Garden in Bad Langensalza, our group returned in time for the closing event, an elaborate meal at the beautiful Kaisersaal in Erfurt.

Dinner was complimented by performances from a local gospel troupe, as well as a DJ who lured already-nostalgic attendees to the dance floor, allowing them one last chance to celebrate the GTM before heading home- where all is left to do is begin dreaming of next year.

Check in next week for comprehensive coverage of the GTM, including details on upcoming GTM themes and locations.