It is our pleasure to invite you to join us for the 15th Conference of the International Society of Travel Medicine (CISTM15) on 14-18 May 2017 in Barcelona, Spain. CISTM15 marks a highlight in the history of the International Society of Travel Medicine as we will celebrate its 25th anniversary on Tuesday, 16 May 2017 at the Poble Espanyol. Delight in its architecture with the best Spanish craftsmanship and gastronomy, and celebrate our past achievements and future aspirations as a Society. We have come a long way, and now we have 35,000 members from more than 90 countries. We are more geographically diverse than ever, more vibrant than ever, our members are engaging more with each other and within the Society, and we have advanced in the Science and Art of Travel Medicine. Truly reasons for a big celebration in Barcelona!

Furthermore, at CISTM15 several new programs will be presented. First, the ISTM fellowship program: the ISTM Fellows Program is a new special recognitions program just established by the ISTM Board of Directors, and implemented by the new ISTM Special Recognitions Committee, chaired by Charles Ericsson. We will have an Awards Ceremony where we will acknowledge the Initial and First Classes of ISTM Fellows. Second, we will celebrate the awardees of the newly established research awards from developing countries and emerging economies. And lastly, the Alan Magill Memorial Lecture will be held for the first time at our conference, to commemorate Alan’s exemplary life and achievements and be inspired to press on in his legacy in travel medicine and global health.

Under the able leadership of Christina Greenaway, from Canada, and co-Chair Karin Leder from Australia, the Scientific Program Committee is putting together an up-to-date exciting program that no one will want to miss. State-of-the art lectures, prominent speakers, workshops and debates, ample opportunities to discuss controversies in travel medicine with friends and colleagues, free oral communications on latest research findings – and all this in beautiful Barcelona.

As the Chairs of the Organizing Committee, Rogelio Lopez-Velez, and Jordi Vila, are eager to point out Barcelona is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. So why is it so popular? Well, it has almost everything a conference delegate would wish for: Easy access, favorable weather conditions, attractive beaches and surrounding mountains, a buzzing nightlife, tasty local cuisine and sites steeped in culture and history. There is so much to see and visit!  Jewels of home-grown Catalan architecture, the famous Sagrada Familia, the bustling hive of La Rambla, markets that are a treat for the senses, treasures of the ancient Roman and medieval city….make sure you set aside several days before or after the conference to explore and experience further.

We are very much looking forward to meeting you all again at CISTM15 in Barcelona!