The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is spurring travel agent participation in Caribbean Week New York, which runs from June 1-5, with a specially priced Attendee Package including tickets to the industry leaders’ Caribbean Marketing Conference, the Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon and the Rum and Rhythm Benefit and Auction.
In addition, agents who register for the full package will qualify for a 50 percent reduction in their membership fee in the OneCaribbean Chapter Program (OCC) for 2015.
The CTO brings together its thirty member countries at the Trade Show, Educational Seminar and Dinner for Travel Agents to share the destination news and popular niche market updates most critical for travel agents to facilitate their Caribbean bookings.
“This year’s theme, Authentic Caribbean – Exploring Food, Culture and Nature, will highlight the many influences that are reflected in the eclectic cuisine that makes the Caribbean such a desirable destination for foodies,” says Sylma Brown, CTO-USA’s director, in a written release. "Our experts will give travel agents the information they need to confidently sell our unique culture and the expertise to find clients who will enjoy the privilege of exploring the many historical and natural attractions.”
At the Caribbean Marketing Conference and Allied Awards Luncheon, agents will have an opportunity to exchange ideas with participating ministers, commissioners, directors and national tourist office representatives and will learn about the latest marketing trends and tools to sell the Caribbean in a presentation done in partnership with the Association of Travel Marketing Executives (ATME).
Caribbean Week’s Rum and Rhythm Benefit & Auction is the social highlight of the schedule, with all proceeds benefiting the CTO Foundation, which provides scholarships to Caribbean citizens to pursue studies in tourism and hospitality. Agents are invited to celebrate and imbibe in the historic rums and cuisines as varied as each destination’s culture. Music and cultural performances will add the rhythms that transport listeners to their favorite destinations and the dance floor.
Participating agents will join other the travel industry professionals at the Caribbean Media Awards luncheon to recognize journalists and photographers who, year after year, educate their audiences about the Caribbean and influence their vacation choices. They are also invited to meet the Caribbean tourism leaders of tomorrow at the Caribbean Students Colloquium. This event showcases practical sustainable tourism projects for the region created by students from Caribbean and U.S. colleges and universities.
Agents must register at www.caribbeanweek.com/category/travel-agents for the Attendee Package or any events they wish to participate in during Caribbean Week.
Visit www.caribbeanweek.com and www.onecaribbean.org.