Alexandria, VA, February 8, 2023 — The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is honored to welcome Wolfgang Puck, famous master chef, to their annual Global River Cruise Expo in Budapest, Hungary, March 15-18.
Designed to develop advisors by increasing their river cruise knowledge and bookings, over 600 American travel advisors will meet with local Hungarian vendors and suppliers, explore Budapest on city tours and take part in river cruise journeys on the Danube.
Budapest is the apex of the Danube, and its heralded culinary scene is just one of the many unique selling points of this charming city. Among the many highlights of the city is now Matild Café and Cabaret. Established in 1901, this art nouveau style coffee house reclaims the iconic heritage and culinary traditions of the city with a modern vibe and the vision of Celebrity Chef, Wolfgang Puck.
“Culinary experiences deepen our connections when we travel, and travel advisors enhance our connections with local cultures through their knowledge and networks,” said Wolfgang Puck “That’s why I’m excited to share more about my new European venture, Matild Café and Cabaret – a recommendation that will surely delight your clients and bring them to fully appreciate all the tastes of Budapest.”
During the conference, Vanessa McGovern, Gifted Travel Network’s (GTN) Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and ASTA’s Executive Committee Board Member, will host Wolfgang for a keynote conversation about the importance of bringing people together through culture, cuisine, and tourism.
“The best way to experience a destination is through its food. It is such an honor to be able to have a keynote conversation with Celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck and to share his entrepreneurial passion with river cruise attendees,” said Gifted Travel Network Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Vanessa McGovern. GTN will also host a private dining experience with Wolfgang at Matild Café & Cabaret just prior to the conference.
“It’s an honor to welcome Wolfgang Puck to our mainstage in Budapest,” said Zane Kerby, President and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors. “Wolfgang is an inspiring master chef and an expert in the art of bringing people together around a common cause. I know our travel advisors will enjoy hearing about his journey in building a world-class brand, and we’re thrilled to learn more about his take on travel, tourism and most importantly, the food that brings us together!”
About Café and Cabaret by Wolfgang Puck: Café and Cabaret by Wolfgang Puck Budapest was opened in 2022 to revive European glamor in Budapest. This two-story dining experience is housed in the Matild Palace, A Luxury Collection Property and a Belle Epoque-era building constructed in 1902 under the watchful eye of Her Imperial and Royal Highness Maria Klotild of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Café and Cabaret offers traditional Hungarian coffees, pastries and entertainment.
About Gifted Travel Network: Gifted Travel Network (GTN) is the premier host agency for the luxury travel advisor. Providing an elevated hosting experience through its collaborative community, exceptional support, superior access, and award-winning professional development programs, GTN has completely redesigned the luxury hosting space. As educators and community-builders with a clear vision of making a difference in the industry, GTN’s mission and passion is to cultivate success through travel entrepreneurship