In January 2026 Global Traveler hosted its first Entrepreneurial & Business Travel Symposium, an event bringing together leaders in hospitality, aviation, finance and travel technology through interactive workshops, keynote sessions and networking opportunities. The Union League of Philadelphia hosted the two-day event.
© Life Legacy Photography (Malik Merriweather)
The event kicked off with an evening welcome session before a full day of panels. GT’s publisher and CEO, Francis X. Gallagher, moderated the day’s sessions. TAP Air Portugal sponsored the first panel, and I joined the airline’s Fern Ottavio, manager, North America. Our engaging conversation covered a range of topics, including TAP FORBIZ.
Johnathan Fuchs, COO, Kidder Street Consulting Group; Francis X. Gallagher, publisher and CEO, FXExpress Publications, Inc.; Natasha Terrell, CEO, Travel Goddess International © Life Legacy Photography (Malik Merriweather)
After a short break, Ryan Messier, director, USA Business Development, IHG Business Edge, and Kevin Ryan, partner, Citrin Cooperman, chatted with Gallagher and attendees about how to unlock growth through travel, in-person meetings, IHG’s small- to mid-sized business program and more.
Francis X. Gallagher, publisher and CEO, FXExpress Publications, Inc.; Fernanda Ottavio, manager, North America, TAP Air Portugal; Kimberly Inlander, editor in chief, FXExpress Publications, Inc. © Life Legacy Photography (Malik Merriweather)
The exciting and informative day wrapped up with an engaging discussion on travel challenges and opportunities in this ever-changing world led by Sue Castorino, president, The Speaking Specialists, and Mary Melnick, social media and editorial manager, Global Traveler.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Oct 9, 2026Andermatt, Switzerland, is This Year’s “It” Ski Destination
There’s no time like snow time — and if your idea of a grand winter escape means swooshing, shredding or schussing down a faraway slope and then relaxing in luxury, Andermatt, Switzerland, is the ideal destination. Located in the Urseren Valley and offering luxury lodging, Michelin-starred dining experiences and plenty of ski options, this corner of the central Andermatt Swiss Alps may just be the perfect winter season address.
Sponsored Content
What Actually Happens If You Get Sick or Hurt on a Cruise?
You’ve booked your cabin, mapped the ports and packed the sunscreen. Hopefully, you also bought some insurance. But have you ever thought about what actually happens if a medical emergency strikes mid-voyage?
Airlines
Oct 9, 2026Contour Airlines Adds Non-Stop Flights Between Alabama, Dallas
Travelers flying in and out of Northwest Alabama Regional Airport in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, can now utilize Contour Airlines' new non-stop services to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, beginning Nov. 12. As part of this addition, five weekly flights from its existing Muscle Shoals to Charlotte (CLT) schedule will relocate to Dallas, allowing for convenient connection opportunities at one of the nation's major aviation hubs.
Daily
Oct 9, 2026Cruise the Nile with an Egyptologist on This New River Boat
Learn about ancient Egypt like never before (or perhaps experience your own real-life version of The Mummy) with Travelmarvel. The river cruise line returns to Egypt with the debut of its newest river ship, Travelmarvel Sirius, now sailing the Nile.
Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
Daily
Oct 8, 2026Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan Unveils Reimagined Suites
Designed in harmony with the Ayung River valley, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan recently unveiled seven newly reimagined suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Ayung River valley and handcrafted Balinese details bringing a sense of place. The five Premier Duplex Suites and two Premier Family Suites were created with Hirsch Bedner Associates.
Daily
Oct 7, 2026Why Morocco Should Be Your Next Golf Getaway
Sure, there’s Scotland, Ireland, Portugal … but there’s a new golf destination quietly emerging somewhere even the most seasoned golf travelers may not expect: Morocco!
Sponsored Content
The Art of Balance in Seoul: Beyond the Boardroom
The value of a destination is no longer defined solely by infrastructure, efficiency or scale. Increasingly, it is measured by a city’s ability to balance productivity with well-being — creating opportunities for focus, restoration and more meaningful connections.
Airlines
Oct 7, 2026Avelo Airlines Adds 4 New Non-Stop Destinations from Dallas’ DTX Airport
Avelo Airlines announced four new non-stop routes and a third based aircraft at Dallas’ McKinney National Airport, increasing the airline’s Collin County network to nine destinations.
ShareThis