WTTC Global Summit Will Be World's First Face-To-Face Event Since COVID-19 Outbreak

Image: A pelican rests above the gorgeous Caribbean waters off Cancun. (Photo by Paul Heney) (Photo by Paul Heney.)
Image: A pelican rests above the gorgeous Caribbean waters off Cancun. (Photo by Paul Heney) (Photo by Paul Heney.)
Donald Wood
by Donald Wood
Last updated: 12:53 PM ET, Fri April 23, 2021

The World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) Annual Global Summit 2021 is set to become the first global travel industry event bringing leaders together since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

To ensure the safety of all speakers and guests, the WTTC has implemented "strict world-class health and hygiene protocols" and made coronavirus testing available throughout the three-day event (April 25-27).

The summit, which has a theme of "Uniting the World for Recovery", will bring together private and public sector leaders from the travel and tourism industry at the Moon Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico, as well as thousands expected to join the WTTC event virtually.

Some of the goals for the meetings include sharing best practices, discussing experiences during the COVID-19 outbreak, kickstarting recovery, enhancing sustainability and inclusivity and developing a roadmap to reopening international travel.

"The WTTC Global Summit is the most important event in the calendar as we bring together, for the first time since the pandemic outbreak, the cream of the Travel & Tourism sector," WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara said. "The most influential leaders from both the private and public sectors will meet face-to-face for the first time in nearly a year as we begin a new chapter in the sector's post-pandemic recovery."

"More than ever, as governments begin to reopen their economies, it is vital we share knowledge and best practice among travel leaders and political leaders to navigate our way to a responsible recovery," Guevara continued.

The WTTC summit will also host the launch of a significant 'Women's Initiative' to work towards removing existing barriers for women within the sector and implementing initiatives for greater success.

The event will feature marquee speakers such as former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, tennis legend Martina Navratilova, Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta, Carnival Corporation CEO Arnold Donald and more.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Donald Wood

Donald Wood

Managing Editor

Donald Wood is TravelPulse’s Managing Editor, bringing nearly 15 years of experience to the desk. He currently lives outside Philadelphia with his wife and two children.

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Korea Travel Specialist ProgramThis course will allow you to explore this fascinating country's incredible diversity of experiences...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Costa Rica Specialist ProgramCosta Rica Specialist Program academy ENROLL NOW Costa Rica offers golden shores, fish-filled waters,...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Korea Travel Specialist ProgramThis course will allow you to explore this fascinating country's incredible diversity of experiences...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Costa Rica Specialist ProgramCosta Rica Specialist Program academy ENROLL NOW Costa Rica offers golden shores, fish-filled waters,...

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Watch Now!
Small Groups, Big AdventuresThursday, June 18, 2026
2:00pm ET
Join Trafalgar and Insight Vacations for an exclusive launch webinar introducing 56 new Small Group...
Upcoming Webinar
Discover Houston, A World in a CityMonday, June 22, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join Visit Houston for an inside look at one of the country’s most dynamic and diverse destinations....
Upcoming Webinar
Why Cruise, When You Can CunardWednesday, June 24 2026
2:00pm Eastern
When cruise is the option, Cunard is the difference. This session explores what sets the Cunard...
Watch Now!
Small Groups, Big AdventuresThursday, June 18, 2026
2:00pm ET
Join Trafalgar and Insight Vacations for an exclusive launch webinar introducing 56 new Small Group...
Upcoming Webinar
Discover Houston, A World in a CityMonday, June 22, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join Visit Houston for an inside look at one of the country’s most dynamic and diverse destinations....
Upcoming Webinar
Why Cruise, When You Can CunardWednesday, June 24 2026
2:00pm Eastern
When cruise is the option, Cunard is the difference. This session explores what sets the Cunard...