Boutique Italian travel specialist Travel Puglia has wrapped up a milestone year with a week of trade engagement events, marking the first time co-founders Monique Fabris and Andrea Farina have visited Sydney together.
The pair spent the week meeting with key trade partners, thanking the industry for its continued support during what has been a record year of growth, including a 20% increase in bookings, driven by strong demand for their signature “5 Senses of Puglia” itinerary, and rising interest in bespoke private tours.
Earlier in the week on Tuesday 2 December, they hosted an intimate cooking event for a group of travel agents at Cucina Italiana Cooking School in Marrickville.
The evening saw agents don aprons and join the charismatic chef in preparing a traditional four-course feast of risotto, tagliatelle, ravioli and semifreddo, paired with wines from the Puglian region. Guests later dined at two long tables decorated with rustic olive branches and candlelight, sharing personalised fun facts about Puglia.
Throughout the evening, Monique and Andrea shared insights into why Puglia continues to rise in popularity among Australian travellers. This includes increased demand for small group trips, escorted journeys, honeymoons, weddings
“Being in Sydney together this week has been incredibly special. We’ve met so many passionate agents who truly understand what their clients want – authentic, meaningful travel that feels personal,” said Monique Fabris, Co-Founder of Travel Puglia.
Andrea Farina added, “Connecting with the trade in person has allowed us to share why Puglia continues to resonate with Australian travellers. Agents told us they’re receiving more enquiries than ever for trips to the region, and we’re thrilled to support them with unforgettable experiences that showcase the real Puglia.”
Forward bookings into next year are already tracking strongly for Travel Puglia, with a surge in group enquiries.
While in Sydney, Travel Puglia were also major co-sponsors of the Council of Australian Tour Operators Travel Industry Christmas Lunch on Thursday 4 December, supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
