ABVP Travel Bloggers Meeting — Inspiration for those who don't stay still

For those who have not yet realized, I’m one of the founding members of the newly created ABVP – Association of Portuguese Travel Bloggers.

When we started this project, at the end of January, we set out to hold a series of events and meetings that allow members to get to know each other and exchange experiences, gain new knowledge and learn new tools. In short, evolve in a sustainable way as travel bloggers.

Following this objective, last weekend, the emblematic Crystal Palace in Oporto received the 1st Meeting of the ABVP.

Palácio de Cristal no Porto Cristal Palace — The magnificent Crystal Palace in Porto

When we decided to carry out this first big gathering, we had no idea of the phenomenal receptivity.

Within three days, the 90 vacancies we had available were all booked, and a waiting list was even generated if there were any no-shows.

The invitations we sent to Leo and Rachel, from Viajo Logo Existo, to Analú, author of Viajar Para Vivir, Conor MacNeill aka The Fella, João Cajuda and Sandra Silva Costa, publisher of the travel magazine Fugas, were promptly accepted.

And the sponsorship of IATI and Marrocos.com, as well as the support given by the Porto Business Association, Old Stone Flats, Felgueiras Town Hall, and Bicafé, allowed us to offer all the guests and participants a fantastic day.

Encontro da ABVP — The conference room during the presentation of the authors of the Viajo Logo Existo

The Themes of the 1st ABVP Conference

Travel bloggers from around the country answered the call, and the room filled up to talk about topics such as the power of photography and ethical partnerships, how to publish articles in a travel magazine, how to monetize a travel blog, how to be a digital nomad or the power of travel video. In this incredible forum for sharing experiences and knowledge, the ethics and seriousness of the travel blogger’s work, one of the main flags of ABVP, was also discussed.

João Leitão Viagens e Conor MacNeill aka The Fella — João Leitão in a relaxed conversation with Conor MacNeill

João Cajuda, Marlene Marques, Conor MacNeill — In the best company of João Cajuda and Conor MacNeill

Analucía Rodríguez Viajar Para Vivir e Marlene On The Move — Sharing smiles with Analucía Rodríguez from Viajar Para Vivir

Apart from the day of the convention, there was still time for relaxed moments around the city and a dinner that brought together more than 50 participants.

At the end of this 1st ABVP Conference, we were all excited about the energy of the speakers and the energy generated among the audience. It was so nice to meet those responsible for the work that we have been following in the blogosphere, as well as in social media.