The show's commercial director David Alstin said visitor numbers at Islington's Business Design Centre (BDC) were slightly down on last March at just over 12,000. "There was a feeling among some exhibitors that there was a loss of a sense of urgency over booking a trip if visitors feel that they can come back the following day."
Exhibitor numbers were comparable with last March, he said. The show is likely to stick with the BDC for October’s show, but switch to the Gallery Hall.
This year’s event on 9-10 March showcased a range of travel players including tour operators, hostel and campervan companies, to individuals planning their next year of travel. It is London’s largest free travel show.
Group trips, overland routes and off-the-beaten track destinations featured. Exhibitors included Topdeck, Travel Talk, Contiki, Busabout, On The Go and Sail Croatia.
Kay Gillespie, of Haggis Adventures, said: "Overall it’s been incredibly worthwhile and we’re really looking forward to the next show."
Paddywagon’s Gabriel Finn said: "The show has been fantastic. The layout of the venue is brilliant, the organisation of the show second-to-none and yet again TNT has surpassed its level of commitment to all its readers and customers."
Around 8,000 visitors came through the doors on the first day, greeted by comedian Mark Little, who played Joe Mangel in TV soap Neighbours.
Show content included inspirational travel seminars, belly dancing, competitions, street magic and a mass Harlem Shake finale.
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