After celebrating Flight Centre Travel Group’s people and culture at Global Gathering 2024 in Lisbon, senior leaders across the Group’s brands set sail on an Avalon Waterways river cruise down the Douro River, closing the eventful week in style.
Taking place right after GG24 in July, 18 senior leaders, including FCTG Global Managing Director & CEO Graham “Skroo” Turner, and their travelling companions were welcomed aboard Avalon Waterways’ newest Suite Ship Avalon Alegria for the all-new eight-day Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages along the Douro river cruise.
Hosted by Globus family of brands Global Account Manager Mitch Spencer, Head of Commercial Australasia Brett Simon and National Director of Field Sales USA Archy Arushanyan, the group experienced the new ship, local flavours and itinerary firsthand, including Avalon’s signature ‘Classic,’ ‘Discovery’ and ‘Active’ excursions.
Itinerary highlights included visits to ancient Amarante, the sandstone architecture in Salamanca, Spain and riding bikes from Porto to the sea.
Aboard Avalon Alegria
Flight Centre Brand Australia General Manager Brent Novak said: “What a way to wind down post our FCTG Global Gathering! From the time we arrived in Porto to being welcomed aboard the Avalon Alegria, we felt spoilt.”
“The Alegria is a beautiful vessel that felt spacious, luxurious and very comfortable. The staff were engaging and made everyone’s experience unique, no request was too much, and they made sure you experienced Portugal to its fullest.”
Ignite Travel Group General Manager Ryan Thomas said: “Once again, Avalon exceeded expectations with their unparalleled relaxed luxury service.”
“The destination itself was also a highlight, waking up to the spectacular scenery of the Douro Valley every day, visiting the historic villages and staying active on one of Avalon’s many excursions.”
Read Karryon’s review of cruising the Douro on Avalon Alegria here.
