Written By: Mary Pat Sullivan, Content Director – Travel Weekly Events
As we start preparing for Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld 2019, we continue to celebrate the record-setting experience last year November 7-9, 2018 at the Broward County Convention Center. The event was the largest on record, with over 1,300 attendees coming to Fort Lauderdale. The energy onsite was electric as industry executives took the main stage. The Exhibitor Showcase was packed with travel advisors and suppliers making brand new connections and renewing existing ones. Extensive notes were taken and knowledge was gained throughout training, certifications, breakout sessions, ship inspections and of course, sponsors provided some stellar entertainment.
Time is a treasured asset for busy travel advisors and it is important to know your investment in an industry event will be well spent. This year’s CruiseWorld will be held November 13-15, with ship inspection opportunities November 16-17 and pre-event training on November 12.
“All throughout the year we see the overwhelming success of the travel advisors who attend CruiseWorld. These professionals recognize the value of education, keeping up-to-date with the industry, and the importance of making face-to-face connections with suppliers,” said Alicia Evanko-Lewis, Senior Vice President of Events, the Travel Group, Northstar Travel Group. “After each event, we are so proud to see their accomplishments and our team is happy to find ways to facilitate their continued success.”
First time attendees and those who join year after year find valuable content for their business. “At CruiseWorld, I learned so much about cruise lines, vendors, and even destinations that I had previously known little about! I was able to have face-to-face conversations with suppliers that can offer exciting opportunities to my clients,” said Kerry Gastley of Fabulous Indeed Vacations. “And that doesn’t even cover all the educational content! I’ll be recommending that everyone from my agency attend next year.”
In fact, the educational opportunities are at the root of our attendees’ success. “CruiseWorld is the one and only event to attend if you want to learn more about the industry. You get the chance to hear from the executives, meet with the sales teams, and take part in educational sessions. I’m a longtime attendee and I never miss it!” said Celeste Auger-Munshi, Indulgent Voyages.
There is no shortage of satisfied travel advisors walking away from CruiseWorld with a renewed passion for the industry and desire to amplify their business in the months following the event. Rolanda Chambers, Golden Voyage Travel, attended for the first time in 2018 and had nothing but positive things to say about the after-effects of CruiseWorld. “If you are serious about growing your business, CruiseWorld is a must. As a first-time participant, I never could have imagined how impactful this conference would be to me. CruiseWorld provided information and tools that have revolutionized my thinking. I feel equipped to soar.”
To soar even further, travel advisors should consider applying for CruiseWorld’s Select Travel Advisor Recognition (STAR) Program. The STAR Program is structured to provide intense customized event programming while offsetting some of the financial expenses incurred by travel advisors to attend professional development events. CruiseWorld STARs receive VIP treatment and are provided with exclusive programming and networking opportunities to maximize their onsite experience. Learn more about the program at www.cruiseworldshow.com/star.
Cruiseworld will include certification programs, peer training sessions, supplier training, a 150+ supplier Exhibitor Showcase, networking events, ship inspections and sponsored meals and events. Registration for the event will open next month.