Wroclaw to host 2019 Aito overseas conference

The city in south-west Poland is one of a handful of “on-trend” city break destinations the Polish Tourism Organisation believes will appeal to British tourists, Aito says.

Situated in Poland’s Lower Silesia region is, according to Aito, one of Europe’s “hidden gems” with a rich history, a thriving cultural scene and stunning architecture.

Aito chairman Derek Moore said the conference would be an opportunity for delegates to explore the city’s “fascinating and turbulent past” and “lively cultural centre”.

“The lesser-known city of Wroclaw has the perfect attributes for the Aito conference, and we’re confident delegates will benefit from its authentic character, stunning historic landmarks and striking modern structures, along with its good-value array of entertainment, bistros, bars and restaurants,” said Moore.

Wroclaw also offers quirky features such as the 200-plus bronze gnomes dotted around the city – a nod to an anti-Soviet resistance movement that helped topple Poland’s oppressive communist regime in the 1980s – and the romantic "Hansel and Gretel" buildings, which appear to hold hands.

“The Polish Tourism Organisation team has been extremely welcoming and supportive, and we’re delighted to be working with them and to be able to explore the exciting venues, sights and events that Wrocław has to offer.”

Delegates will be based at a five-star hotel in the city centre, a short walk from the Old Town Market Square overlooking Slowacki Park and surrounded by museums and the Galeria Dominkanska shopping centre. Conference events and activities will be held a short walk from the hotel apart from the farewell gala dinner, which Moore said would take place in “an exciting and unexpected location”.

Delegates can fly direct from Luton or Stansted to Wroclaw (two hours), or fly to Krakow or Katowice (also two hours) and transfer by intercity train. Alternatively, attendees can fly from Heathrow via Warsaw (four hours).

The conference will, as ever, bring together business owners and senior managers from tour operators and travel agencies, as well as Aito’s affiliates and tourist offices.

Conference sessions will featuring a mixture of inspiring speakers and breakout events, business sessions and evening events at interesting local venues.