Attending a business travel convention like GBTA can be energizing – and overwhelming. With packed agendas, a busy show floor, and countless opportunities to connect, navigating the noise requires a game plan. We asked some of our most engaged GBTA veterans for their top tips on making the most of this year’s conference, happening July 21-23 in Denver, Colorado.
Before you go
Heading to Denver means more than adjusting to the altitude. Prepare early. Review the GBTA agenda, flag key education sessions, and pre-book meetings with people you want to connect with. And don’t overlook the show floor – it’s more than swag and small talk.
If you only had one hour on the GBTA show floor, how would you spend it?
Miriam Moscovici, Vice President, Partnerships & Research Innovation
“Plot, pace and follow up. I’d study the exhibitor list and floor map the night before, then use my hour to quickly scan badges, shake hands, and make real-life connections. The follow-ups after the convention – that’s where the real conversations happen.”
Sarah Whiting, Senior Director, Solutions Consulting
“I’d work on solving a business problem, not just shop tools. The goal isn’t to find the best individual tool – it’s to understand how the pieces fit together. Start with a use case like, ‘How do I reduce hotel leakage while improving traveler satisfaction?’ Then visit vendors across the ecosystem – rate assurance, virtual payments, TMCs or OBTs that can integrate both. Ask integration questions. Find the connectors. The magic isn’t in the tech itself – it’s in how well it all works as a system.”
Rossana Martin, Senior Vice President, Global Sales
“If I only had an hour on the GBTA show floor, I’d use the time to level-up my skillset, expand my network, and get out of my comfort zone. Want to know more about AI and how it can enhance your travel program? Visit the SkyLink booth – it’s a next-gen, chat-based booking experience that drives traveler productivity and program compliance. Want the real story on NDC? Come to the BCD booth and we’ll show you how our platform investments unlock unrivaled content access and choice for corporate clients.”
During the show
Plan your schedule like a pro. Balance learning sessions with networking opportunities. Take breaks, drink water, and wear comfortable shoes – Denver’s convention center is big, and the air’s a bit thinner there.
What trends are you watching in 2025?
Rossana: “There’s a lot of hype around new tech and new entrants. I’m here to find out what’s actually working. I want honest conversations, real use cases – not just future selling. And as trusted advisors, my team and I are always looking for the key takeaways that we can share with our clients to help them optimize their programs.”
Miriam: “I’m excited to see how travel buyers react to our new partnership with SkyLink. We’re changing the way business travel is booked, and travel managers will have important decisions to make around bringing modern booking experiences into their programs.”
Sarah: “Don’t sleep on the ‘unsexy’ topics – like data hygiene and mid-office automation. Solving for identity management and back-end integration isn’t flashy, but it’s the foundation for personalized, compliant, and efficient travel programs.”
Rossana: “One big question I’m exploring is, ‘Am I doing enough to prepare for the next-next generation of travel leaders?’ We need to nurture current talent and attract new energy into the industry. GBTA and WINiT have a role to play – and so do we.”
What questions should the travel industry be asking now?
Asking the right questions to ask can be your edge. Sarah suggests zooming out: “How do I evolve my travel program into a platform for business enablement?”
Ask if your program can:
- Adapt to new business models (e.g., remote-first or project-based travel)
- Deliver insights that support HR, finance, or ESG goals
- Scale as your company grows or shifts
The answer? Likely a flexible and easy-to-connect tech stack – and partners like BCD who can help orchestrate it all.
Rossana: One question every attendee should ask: “Am I doing everything I can to keep all of my travelers safe across the globe?”
In today’s volatile world, this question matters more than ever. “A recent survey showed 75% of travelers would decline a trip if they felt their company didn’t prioritize safety. That’s why Advito’s Traveler Security Program Assessment (TSPA) is so critical. It aligns with ISO 31030 and delivers a tailored analysis of your travel risk management program. You’ll get specific, actionable guidance – and the peace of mind that your travelers are protected 24/7/365.”
Make time for the city (and yourself)
Denver’s walkable downtown, buzzing brewery scene and mountain views are too good to ignore. Recharge between sessions with a walk to Confluence Park or join a casual meetup with other attendees. And pace yourself.
“Don’t overcommit or neglect your wellbeing,” Rossana reminds. “You’ve got people to impress and a body to keep functioning across multiple time zones. Get rest each day.”
Final word
Don’t let the momentum fade. Follow up with people you met. Ask what event they’re attending next. Share a relevant article or insight. And of course – connect on LinkedIn.
In an industry where change is constant, showing up prepared is your superpower. Whether you’re looking to rethink your travel strategy, plug into new tech, or simply expand your network, GBTA 2025 in Denver is your moment.
Meet our experts in Denver at GBTA Convention 2025 | July 21 – 23
Look for Miriam, Rossana, Sarah – and other familiar BCD faces – at Booth #509 on the show floor. We can’t wait to connect.
