Destination Leaders to Collaborate at Travel Exchange

January 2, 2013

Chief executives of destination marketing organizations will gather at Travel Exchange to discuss the challenges they have faced during a struggling global economy, its effect on packaged travel, and what solutions lie ahead.

"DMO budgets have been reduced-and sometimes eliminated-as governments cut back during the economic downturn," said Lisa Simon, NTA president. "So our questions are: What strategies have organizations used and how can we work together to ensure a robust packaged-travel industry? That’s what will result from this thought-leader discussion."

The Destination Leaders Forums comprise two sessions on Wednesday, Jan. 23: a 9 a.m. meeting for state, provincial and CVB leaders from North America, and a 2:30 p.m. session that brings together leaders of national tourism organizations. Helen Marano, vice president of government and industry affairs for the World Travel and Tourism Council, will serve as moderator of both sessions.

"After our face-to-face forums, NTA will release our findings in a white paper," said Simon. "We’ll also use this information to educate our members and enhance packaged travel."

For more information, email NTA Headquarters.