All You Need to Know About Skift Global Forum

We often get asked many questions about the best event in travel, Skift Global Forum, taking place on September 17-19 in New York City – and we wanted to make sure you have most of the answers in one place. Here is what you need to know.

What is Skift Global Forum?

Skift Global Forum is our flagship event that has transformed into the premier thought leadership conference covering the business of global travel. The focus is to understand and decipher the bigger picture that connects all sectors of the industry. The Forum features influential leaders and companies from across the travel and hospitality sectors, discussing and defining the future of travel.

Since its inception in 2014, Skift Global Forum has been at the forefront of shaping the future of travel. With its cutting-edge discussions, insightful presentations, and world-class networking, this annual gathering serves as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration.

Who is it for?

Skift Global Forum is ideal for anyone interested in the future of the travel industry. This includes:

• Top Executives and CEOs: Many top-level executives and CEOs from significant brands in the travel industry, such as Delta, Marriott, and Airbnb, attend the forum.
• VP Level and Higher: Over 50% of the audience typically consists of individuals at the VP level or higher, making it a great networking opportunity for senior leaders.
• Future C-Level Executives: Those aspiring to reach C-level positions can benefit substantially from attending, as it provides exposure to high-quality content, diverse speakers, and exceptional networking opportunities.
• Business Professionals and Individuals: Anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in the travel industry and gain a stronger understanding of the ideas and players driving future changes.

The forum is not just about networking but also about elevating the discussion on the future of travel, offering transformative insights for attendees.

What is the experience like?

We aim to deliver the best possible experience for an event of this caliber. A Skift Global Forum event includes:

• A crowd big enough for opportunities to meet new people from around the world and still connect with old friends – expect around 1,000 attendees.
• Outstanding content. Our amazing Programming team will not let this event disappoint you. They have worked tirelessly to make sure to bring you high-caliber executive speakers covering the hot-topic issues. We have been hosting this event for over a decade, and we have learned a thing or two on how to make the most out of the industry’s best conference.

• A venue that feels fresh, unique, and not too corporate or sterile. We think we’ve accomplished that at the Glasshouse – and many others who attended in 2022 will agree. 
• Exceptional catering. We pride ourselves on making the investment to have great food at our events – and Skift Global Forum is no exception. Expect to have drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres at the opening night reception on September 17th, breakfast and lunch on September 18th and just breakfast on September 19th (since it is not a full day). Also, networking breaks both days will also include snacks and refreshments all on-site.
• Friendly staff. Our whole team will be on-site to answer any questions you may have. We are here to help and to make sure you have the best experience.
• Access to a media library post-event. A week after the event, you’ll have access to professional photos, presentation slide decks, and recordings of each session to re-live all of the excitement.

Who is speaking this year?

Skift works a bit differently from other events. Speakers are (mostly) joined on stage with a Skift editor or executive and asked pressing questions within their sector and the topics will vary depending on the industry. Don’t expect a bullet point list of “10 tips for how to XYZ,” instead expect a deep-dive of editorial driven questions and answers. 

This year, we’re honored to welcome 30+ speakers to the stage including:

• Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb
• Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking Holdings
• Joanna Geraghty, CEO of JetBlue
• Richard R. Verma, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources for U.S. Department of State
• Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group
• Greg O’Hara, Founder & Senior Managing Director of Certares
• Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International
• Geoffrey Ballotti, President & CEO of Wyndham
• William (Bill) Hornbuckle, CEO & President of MGM Resorts International
• Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing
• Matthew Goldberg, CEO of Tripadvisor
• Johannes Reck, CEO of GetYourGuide
• Aaron Gowell, Co-Founder & CEO of SilverRail
• Zita Cobb, Founder and CEO of Shorefast & Fogo Island Inn
• James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel
• Steve Hill, CEO & President of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
• With more to be announced. Stay up-to-date here.

How are tickets priced?

We are now currently on our “last chance” price of $3,195 with the full-price being $3,495, and prices rise as we get closer to the event. Make sure to lock-in your seats as early as possible to secure our lowest rates. Trust us, you won’t want to wait until the last minute to either have to pay full-price or worse, risk the event being sold out as it has done in the past.

If you’re bringing a group of 2-6 folks, group prices are $350-off whatever the current rate is, and if you’re 7 or more, reach out to us at [email protected] to discuss a larger discount.

There’s no reserved seats–it’s theater style seating and we do our best to make sure everyone can see the action. We don’t offer refunds on tickets, but you can transfer your ticket to anyone else or save your credit for another event within the same calendar year by emailing us.

What is the venue?

This year’s Forum is set to return to the iconic Glasshouse on the West Side of Manhattan in New York City from September 17-19 with breathtaking views of the city skyline.

In 2023, we welcomed 875 attendees and 36 speakers to this location, and this year we plan to welcome over 1,000.

Where should I stay?

We don’t have an official hotel for the event, but do offer a list of recommended hotels in partnership with Klerk. View hotels here.

When should I fly in?

Ideally, the morning or afternoon of September 17th, so you can join us for the opening reception that evening. Session will conclude at 1:00 pm on September 19th.

If you have questions or want bulk tickets (7 or more) for your team, please drop a line to [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help. See you in New York City.