Travel Department wowed guests at its 30th birthday celebration in the National Concert Hall in Dublin, this week, where a drinks reception followed by a delicious sharing lunch was ended with a toast by TV presenter Miriam O’Callaghan and a performance by upcoming Irish violinist Sarah Brazil.
A journey through 30 years of growth is how I’d describe the birthday celebration of Travel Department yesterday. Opening with a rousing speech from James Coughlan, CEO, who introduced us to the wider TD team in attendance at the lunch followed by updating us on current and future plans for the business and really bringing home how far we have come as an industry, including the emergence of the web, low cost carriers, online agents, crisis, and mass market expansion but that is has shown resilience in ensuring the Travel Department business has a focus on people, quality, value and service.
Claire Doherty, Commercial Director, discussed the careful planning and design that each tour lovingly gets. She relayed that each group and river product that was on their programme was the result of thorough research, community input, customer service reviews and strong team structure. Claire’s passion for the product and its development is evident throughout her speech.
Stephen Power, TD Active Product Manager, outlined the new and exciting things that TD Active have coming in 2026, including new adventures and destinations. A walking tour of Albania no less.
He highlighted three new tours showcasing variety: Albania (challenging hiking), Explore India (cultural, train, yoga, safari), and French Riviera/Liguria (leisurely coastal walks).
Finishing the series of talks with one of the best speeches I’ve been privileged to hear in my tenure in travel, came from founder Bob Haugh, this was an emotive and humourous personal journey along the way, and a very strong acknowledgement of the founding team, staff, partners, and customers. He made special reference to maintaining an enphasis on employee contribution as strategic brand custodians and led us on a 30 year journey that if it wasn’t delivered by the man himself, one might not believe it.
The event was closed with a thanks from the National Concert Halls CEO Nigel Flegg. A toast by TV Presenter Miriam o’ Callaghan and a performance by upcoming Irish violinist Sara Brazil.
