Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
For years, growth in travel has followed a familiar formula centred around optimising acquisition, increasing bookings, and growing lifetime value. But transactions alone no longer create lasting impact. Across Europe and beyond, Millennials and Gen Z are moving away from destination-first travel towards something more intentional. It’s no longer a question of: “Where am I going?” but “Why am I travelling?” The meaning and motivation behind each journey matter more than ever. Travellers are seeking connection - to people and to cultures and perspectives different from their own - and shared moments that stay with them long after they return home. As digital interaction increasingly replaces spontaneous, in-person connection, real-world social participation has become scarcer and more valuable. Travel offers something few other industries can: the opportunity to bring people together around a shared journey, shared challenges, and shared discovery. In this keynote, Andrea will explore how prioritising connection and community over conversion is reshaping the economics of experience-led travel. With the global travel experiences market valued at over $1 trillion, the opportunity is significant. The brands that will lead the next phase of growth will be those that design not only for bookings, but for belonging.
Speaker:
Andrea D'Amico
CEO
WeRoad
For years, growth in travel has followed a familiar formula centred around optimising acquisition, increasing bookings, and growing lifetime value. But transactions alone no longer create lasting impact. Across Europe and beyond, Millennials and Gen Z are moving away from destination-first travel towards something more intentional. It’s no longer a question of: “Where am I going?” but “Why am I travelling?” The meaning and motivation behind each journey matter more than ever. Travellers are seeking connection - to people and to cultures and perspectives different from their own - and shared moments that stay with them long after they return home. As digital interaction increasingly replaces spontaneous, in-person connection, real-world social participation has become scarcer and more valuable. Travel offers something few other industries can: the opportunity to bring people together around a shared journey, shared challenges, and shared discovery. In this keynote, Andrea will explore how prioritising connection and community over conversion is reshaping the economics of experience-led travel. With the global travel experiences market valued at over $1 trillion, the opportunity is significant. The brands that will lead the next phase of growth will be those that design not only for bookings, but for belonging.
Speaker:
Andrea D'Amico
CEO
WeRoad
