TTC Tour Brands announces Eastern Europe FAM for BIPOC advisors

TTC Tour Brands and Trafalgar have announced a new FAM for BIPOC travel advisors.

Called Sense of Europe, the seven-day itinerary will take place March 11-17, 2024, and will travel from Prague to Vienna and Budapest.

The trip will give advisors the opportunity to engage and network with peers within the BIPOC community and discover the history, architecture, culture and cuisine of the Eastern European region.

According to Melissa DaSilva, president of TTC Tour Brands North America, the new FAM was designed specifically with the company’s DEI goals to bridge the gap between TTC and underrepresented communities in the travel industry in mind.

“Studies have shown that Black travellers are more likely to visit a destination if they see themselves represented and if they feel secure,” said DaSilva.

Advisors taking part in the FAM will begin their trip in Prague, where they will explore sites including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square and Prague Castle.

They will then pass through Bratislava on their way to Vienna for a before-hours guided visit to the Kunstkammer.

A local specialist will then join the group for a tour of Hofburg Palace, the Opera House and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Advisors will go on a walking tour of Budapest and taste traditional dishes like szegedin goulash (goulash stew), töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage), chicken paprikash and dobos-torta.

They will spend the final day exploring the medieval town of Szentendre with a goulash cooking demonstration, before spending their last night together with dinner alongside a local Schieszel family.

“Diversity is the foundation of meaningful travel,” said TTC Tour Brands Senior National Account Manager Tonya Leigh, who spearheaded the Sense of Europe FAM and will be overseeing the trip this March.

“Eastern Europe is an emerging destination for North American travellers of colour and selected with intention. Rich in history and with incredible architecture, food, music and art, this is a place for all travelers to discover. By sharing this incredible experience with our partners in the BIPOC community, we are helping them to bring this experience confidently to their customers while expanding and strengthening their professional network.”

Advisors interested in applying for this FAM opportunity and learning more about the itinerary can click here.

For any questions they can also contact TTC Tour Brands at fams@ttc.com.

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