The show, which is the flagship event of the ILTM Portfolio and also celebrated its 20^th edition this year, featured more than 50,000 one-to-one meetings between suppliers and buyers.

There was also a programme of networking events, with organisers ensuring that “high level” safety precautions were in place for all activities.

ILTM portfolio director Alison Gilmore said: “We are so proud of the role ILTM 2021 has played in giving the global luxury travel industry the live event it so desperately needed.

“The love of travel is still as real as it ever was - so many reunions, so many introductions and so many real human connections with so much emotion.”

Among the exhibitors was Explora Journeys, which launched its luxury ocean experience at ILTM Cannes.

Michael Ungerer, Explora’s chief executive, said: “This week has proved that nothing beats face-to-face after building our entire brand virtually – thanks to ILTM for bringing it to life.

“The entire event has been pulled off thoughtfully and carefully, we have felt completely safe and assured throughout.”

Haisley Smith, from Internova Travel Group, added: “ILTM has allowed us to reconnect with the world – each appointment, working lunch and dinner has been defined by a feeling of pure joy, so huge kudos to ILTM for the planning and logistics to ensure that everyone felt safe and secure throughout.”

Yuriy Horovyy, from Almont Travel in the UK, was also full of praise: “It’s great to be back and reconnect with hospitality experts and friends - relationships are so important to our trusted luxury travel advisors.

“It has been good to learn what suppliers have managed to do during the pandemic, from renovations to new openings.”

ILTM will next host its regional shows in 2022 with ILTM Latin America in Sao Paulo from 3–6 May and ILTM Asia Pacific in Singapore on 22–23 June.