For the second time, the CityDNA Autumn Conference will be linked to the GDS-Forum.
City Destinations Alliance and the Global Destination Sustainability Movement have announced that their two back-to-back events, the CityDNA Autumn Conference & GDS-Forum, will be hosted in Bruges from October 15-19, 2024.
- The GDS-Forum, on October 15-16, 2024, will bring together destination leaders and sustainability champions from around the world. It will be a dynamic and unconventional gathering focused on discussing sustainability strategies, sharing best practices, and co-creating new approaches for regenerative destination management. The format will encourage peer-to-peer learning, collaboration, and creativity.
- The GDS-Awards Ceremony, on October 16, 2024, will celebrate the winners of the 9th GDS-Index Awards. This entertaining evening event will unite both communities and provide greater recognition for destinations that have made significant sustainability contributions.
- The CityDNA Autumn Conference, on October 16-19, 2024, offers an opportunity for destination professionals from Tourist Boards, CVBs, and DMOs to network and learn from their colleagues in Europe and beyond. This conference will feature collaborative sessions, inspiring discussions, and innovative approaches to address the latest trends and challenges in urban tourism.
Dieter Dewulf, former CityDNA Board Member and Tourism Manager-Director of Visit Bruges, expressed his excitement about hosting the next “GDS-Forum & CityDNA Autumn Conference” in Bruges, a cosmopolitan and charming city that welcomes visitors from all over the world. Guy Bigwood, CEO and Chief Changemaker of the GDS-Movement, emphasized their commitment to empowering the advancement and stewardship of travel destinations and their privilege in taking the next steps in Bruges. Petra StuĊĦek, President of City Destinations Alliance, highlighted Bruges’ rich history, sustainability commitment, and ambition to be climate neutral by 2050, which aligns with the focus on ‘better’ tourism. She anticipated a conference that not only explores industry trends but also fosters connections in the warm and hospitable setting of Bruges.