RDA Annual Conference 2026

RDA Warm-Up

from 7.00 p.m.
RDA Warm-Up at Hotel Hirschen in Imst 

At the RDA Warm-Up at the Hotel Hirschen in Imst, we will already set the mood for the RDA Annual Conference. Enjoy culinary specialties of the Austrian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. We will be greeted with a traditional Tyrolean reception – accompanied by the traditional tapping of the beer keg.

RDA Annual General Meeeting

from 9.00 a.m.
Admittance & Registration for the RDA Annual General Meeting

9.30 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
RDA Annual General Meeting (for members only)

from 12:30 p.m.
Lunch & Networking

Touristic programme

from 1.30 p.m.
Between Alpine panorama and crystal sparkle – 
Bergisel Ski Jump in Innsbruck & Swarovski Kristallwelten in Wattens

Our touristic programme combines Tyrolean tradition, impressive architecture and sparkling experiences into a special one-day adventure.

We will start with a visit of the famous Bergisel Ski Jump in Innsbruck, where we experience the thrill of ski jumping up close during an impressive demonstration of a test jump. The ski jump at Bergisel masterfully combines bridge, high-rise, and steel construction. The Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid is responsible for this masterpiece. The Four Hills Tournament takes place every year in the Bergisel Arena.

Alternatively, you can visit the Tirol Panorama Museum to gain fascinating insights into Tyrolean history and culture. The Tirol Panorama offers a comprehensive look into the “Myth of Tyrol” and depicts the Tyrolean struggle for freedom in a fascinating 360-degree perspective on a giant 1,000 m² circular painting. The exhibition is complemented by the Kaiserjäger Museum, which documents Tyrol’s military history.

From there, we continue on to Wattens. Just around 20 kilometers from Innsbruck, the world-famous Swarovski Kristallwelten invite you on a journey into a sparkling world of wonder, where creativity, imagination and crystalline magic blend together in a unique way. Impressive installations, dazzling displays and surprising sensory experiences turn a visit into a special highlight of the programme.

Evening programme

from 7.30 p.m.
RDA Evening

To finish off the day, a special evening awaits us at Daniels Kristallwelten on the grounds of Swarovski Kristallwelten in Wattens. In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the evening offers the perfect opportunity for enjoyable moments, inspiring conversations and a memorable end to the day.

Conference programme (in German only)

Host: Bernhard Kirschbaum
RDA Treasurer and CEO of Kirschbaum Verlag

9.30 a.m.
Welcoming addresses

10.00 a.m.
Coach Tourism in Tyrol – Opportunities, Challenges and Prospects
Ing. Franz Sailer, Sector Chairman (KommR) of the Tyrolean Chamber of Commerce

10.15 a.m.
The global economy under pressure from geopolitical conflicts and Europe’s scope for action
Prof. Dr. Thomas Jäger, Political scientist, Professor of International Politics and Foreign Policy at the University of Cologne
Thomas Jäger has held the Chair of International Politics and Foreign Policy at the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences at the University of Cologne since 1999. He is editor of the “Zeitschrift für Außen- und Sicherheitspolitik“ and a full member of the North Rhine-Westphalian Academy of Sciences and Arts.

11.00 a.m.
Coffee break & Networking

11.30 a.m.
Coach travel: The latest holiday trends
Prof. Dr. Martin Lohmann, Graduate psychologist and scientific advisor to the Forschungsgemeinschaft Urlaub und Reisen e.V. (FUR)
Before pursuing his research career, Martin Lohmann worked as a study tour guide for a medium-sized coach tour operator. Currently, he is a scientific advisor for the German study “Reiseanalyse“ of the FUR. Besides that, he teaches at various European universities. He has been the director of the NIT, Institute for Tourism Research in Northern Europe, in Kiel for many years as well as professor of business psychology at the Leuphana University of Lüneburg.

12.00 p.m.
Staying visible, staying in control: What AI means for the future of coach tourism
Alexander Mirschel, tourism consultant and partner at Realizing Progress 
For more than 15 years, the Frankfurt native has been working on digital change in the tourism industry, innovation and digitalisation processes, target grouporiented communication and new marketing approaches. He helps destinations and tourism companies to recognise the opportunities of the digital age and set the course for a successful future.

12.30 p.m.
DRSF: Declining fees – more flexibility for the travel industry
Dr. Andreas Gent, Managing Director Deutscher Reisesicherungsfonds (DRSF)
Dr. Andreas Gent is a lawyer with many years of experience in the insurance industry. He served on the Executive Board of the HanseMerkur Insurance Group for around 20 years and is now a member of its Supervisory Board. As Managing Director of the DRSF from August 2021 to June 2023, he played a key role in establishing the fund. He is an expert in insurance and finance and thus contributes his management experience, particularly with regard to regulatory issues.

from 1.30 p.m.
Lunch & Networking

Touristic programme

from 3.00 p.m.
The Imst Mountains

Today we’ll explore the fascinating mountain landscape around Imst and enjoy a great afternoon filled with nature, panoramic views and alpine charm. Even the drive from the Hotel Hirschen to Hoch-Imst offers exciting sights: along the way, we’ll learn fascinating facts about the historic town of Imst, its history, culture and life in Tyrol.

Once we arrive in Hoch-Imst, the uphill journey begins with the Imster Bergbahnen. On the way, we can marvel at the magnificent views of the surrounding mountain landscape, green alpine meadows and the impressive peaks of the Tyrolean Alps. At the top, the natural surroundings invite us to admire the scenery and relax.

A highlight of the trip then awaits us with a ride on the Alpine Coaster Imst – the longest Alpine rollercoaster in the world. The spectacular track takes us down into the valley with rapid bends, waves and loops. Everyone can set their own pace and enjoy the thrill of the ride combined with a unique mountain panorama.

The Imst Mountains combine nature, Tyrolean hospitality and adventure into a special experience.

Evening programme

from 6.00 p.m.
Hut evening at the UALM

In the evening, tradition and authentic mountain hut charm await us at the UALM in Imst – nestled amidst the impressive Imst mountain landscape. In a rustic mountain hut setting, we’ll enjoy regional specialities, genuine Tyrolean hospitality and a sociable time in a relaxed atmosphere – accompanied by traditional brass band music and lively Schuhplattler dance performances.

Highlight

from 8.30 a.m.
Ski World Cup Opening 2026 in Sölden

Together, we’ll experience the highlight of the RDA Annual Conference: the legendary Ski World Cup Opening in Sölden. Against the stunning backdrop of the Ötztal Alps, an event brimming with atmosphere, excitement and top-class international sport awaits us.

When the world’s best male and female ski racers gather at the Rettenbach Glacier, the new World Cup season traditionally gets going. We’ll be right there to watch the thrilling races, the electrifying atmosphere and the alpine excitement come together. Thousands of winter sports fans get together to create a unique vibe in the finish stadium and along the course.

As well as the sporting experience, Sölden captivates us with its stunningmountain scenery and an interesting supporting programme. Whether it’s the thrill of the race, social gatherings or unforgettable views of the snow-covered Alps – sport, networking and special experiences come together here in a truly unique way.

Evening programme

from 7.00 p.m.
Farewell evening

To conclude the conference, we will spend the evening together over a joint dinner at the Hotel Hirschen. Enjoy authentic Tyrolean hospitality alongsite colleagues and partners. The perfect setting to wrap up the RDA Annual Conference in a relaxed and sociable atmosphere.

Departure