Taking place for the first time in the heart of Bavaria, on 5-7 February 2024 the STAY WYSE Hostel Conference welcomed over 200 delegates for two days of trading, collaboration, learning and networking.

Monday evening marked the official start of the conference, with delegates being warmly greeted at the welcome drinks, hosted by Wombat’s City Hostels. A fantastic way to kick off the event in a very cool hostel, setting the tone for relaxed networking and catching up with industry peers.

The first day of trading began with a welcoming address by David Chapman, Director General at WYSE Travel Confederation, and a few words from Sébastien Leitner, Chair of the WYSE Travel Confederation Management Board. An engaging fireside chat followed with Heather Leisman, President of EF Ultimate Break, who discussed post-COVID travel priorities for Gen Z and millennials, the evolution of travel experiences, and how group tour operators are adapting.

Inspired and fuelled by coffee – thank you, HI USA – the business appointments, sponsored by JO&JOE were buzzing. With numerous appointments planned throughout the two-day event, the trade hall brimmed with activity as delegates delved into discussions and exchanged insights.

Marco Zucchetti of Flixbus then spoke to delegates, addressing the evolving needs of younger generations in the post-pandemic travel landscape. Rebecca Mayston of Haka House Hostels followed, giving an insightful look at why cultural integration within hostels is so crucial.

Two sessions followed in the afternoon after a tasty lunch, sponsored by Kabannas. Pricepoint’s Mateusz Snir navigated the evolving landscape of hostel operations and our final speaker, Oscar Thanoyannis of Stasher finished the 2024 educational programme with a presentation about the essential role of technology in elevating guest satisfaction, influencing reviews, and boosting bottom lines.

After a busy day of business appointments and inspiring educational sessions, Tuesday wrapped up with a bang as attendees rocked out at the Wombat’s City Hostels party. Those cheese toasties will go down in history!

The second day of trading involved many more business appointments, as attendees engaged in productive discussions and continued conversations from the days before.

Thank you to all our delegates, speakers, sponsors and exhibitors for another successful event with the leaders in youth and student travel accommodation. Can’t wait until the 2025 edition? Neither can we! You can pre-register here to be the first in the know.

If you are interested in hosting a future edition of STAY WYSE, please fill out the form here.