What is the conference agenda and schedule?
The conference will be hosted over 2.5 days and will include global and region sessions. The program will include individual country days, a supplier expo, plus breakout sessions. More details are to come on the specific agenda items and guest speakers.
Will there be networking opportunities for attendees?
Yes, both global and region.
How can I stay updated on conference announcements and updates?
Regular emails will be sent out along with announcements on our Workplace – Independent Group
How can agents and agencies register for the conference?
Online registrations will take place until February 2024.
What is the dress code?
Business casual / smart casual will be appropriate for most events and the conference sessions.
Stay tuned for more details on the dress code in the New Year!
What is the cost of attending the event?
The ‘land only’ conference package is just AUD500 per person (twin share) or AUD800 per person (single occupancy).
What is the cancellation policy?
No refunds will be provided for cancellations.
Those with Early Bird tickets will be liable for the registration costs should they cancel at anytime.
Do I have to travel on the event dates? No, you are more than welcome to book your own flights on your preferred date. We understand many people will want to extend and have their own holiday before or after the event.
If you are not flying into and/or out of Santiago on the main dates, you’ll need to make your own way to/from the airport to the hotel. Also, if you are extending your stay at another hotel in Santiago, you will have to make your own arrangements to your conference hotel.
We also have some fantastic pre and post-event offers from our partners, which you can view here.
I haven't booked my flights.
You can advise that you haven't booked flights during your registration. Once flights are booked, send your itinerary through to the FCM M&E team via email FCTGindependent@fcmtravel.com.au they will update the information on your behalf.
What time should I book my flights for?
You will need to book your flights to arrive at the airport by 3:00pm on 1 May 2024 and flights departing after 3:30pm on 4 May 2024.
What is the weather going to be like?
It will be chilly! Make sure you pack layers and bring a warm coat. Average temperatures are as follows:
High 19°C Low 4°C / High 66°F Low 39°F
Do I require a Visa to visit Chile?
At this time travellers with an Australian Passport are the only ones required to apply for a Visa. This status will continue to be monitored. New Zealand Passport holders do not need a tourist visa when travelling to Chile for period of up to 90 days.
It is your responsibility to review the Visa requirements for Chile based on your country and passport. Click here to view Visa requirements.
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend taking out travel insurance for the trip. Please contact your preferred insurance provider.
Will we have to pay for anything on the trip?
Independent Worldwide 2024 is all inclusive during the conference program! Drinks, accommodation, meals and transfers are covered at conference sessions and functions. The only thing you’ll have to pay for will be souvenirs, drinks or food you purchase outside of the conference program.
Can I bring a guest or family member to the event?
Guests of attendees are welcome to travel to Santiago, Chile. Attendees must upgrade to a single supplement to have their own room to share with their guest or an additional room must be purchased for their guest. Additional rooms are subject to availability at the time of registration and are not guaranteed.
Conference sessions and functions are for Independent Worldwide attendees and guests are not permitted to attend.
What are the accommodation options for conference attendees?
There will be one other hotel utilised for accommodation throughout the conference. Transfers will be available between the Intercontinental hotel and the conference venue at the W, Santiago. More information on hotels can be found here.
Will there be transfers included?
Airport transfers will be provided at key group arrival/departure times on 1 and 4 May 2024. There will be transfers available during from conference and event activities.
Do I have to bring a guest?
Not at all. It’s completely up to you. However, if you do bring a guest, please note that they must be aged 18 or above.
Can I bring my team?
You are more than welcome to extend the Independent Worldwide 2024 invitation to your team. You can send them the shareable link that is included in the email you received titled 'Registration Is Open! | Independent Worldwide 2024'.
Can I claim expenses as a tax deduction for costs (e.g. meals, taxi fares etc.) while travelling to/from Independent Worldwide 2024?
You may be eligible to claim these expenses as a tax deduction on your personal income tax return – please ask your tax agent/accountant for further details.
If you run in to any problems with law enforcement, you must contact the FCTG Independent event organisers immediately to ensure you get timely legal support.
It is your responsibility to ensure you understand and respect the local laws when travelling abroad. Please refer to the below government websites for local laws and penalties in Indonesia, for other nation's please seek out your government's advice.
Australia: Smart Traveller
US: U.S. Department of State
New Zealand: Smart Travel NZ
Canada: Travel.gc.ca
South Africa: Dirco.gov.za
FCTG Independent will ensure to the best of its abilities and in accordance with local laws that it meets all reasonable health and safety requirements as it relates to COVID-19 and public safety. However, all attendees understand that attending FCTG Independent Icons is at their risk, including without limitation to contracting COVID-19 and/or being subject to government restrictions or quarantine.
If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms once you have arrived in Santiago, it is your responsibility to isolate and contact the FCTG Independent team, who will organise for you to take a rapid antigen test.
Different countries have varying requirements for re-entry regarding COVID-19 and the appropriate arrangements will be made depending on your nation.
FCTG Independent team will make all the necessary arrangements to extend your stay in Santiago and will cover all the costs for accommodation, flights and F&B during this period.
Please note: Local COVID-19 guidelines can change at any time and FCTG Independent will provide arrangements in line with Government requirements at the time.