The American Society of Travel Agents's (ASTA) International Destination Expo (IDE) (March 1-4, 2012) will showcase the cuisine and culture of this year’s host city, Lima, Peru, and offer attendees a unique opportunity to experience two of Lima’s most iconic venues, ASTA reports.
“Travel agents attending the upcoming IDE in Lima have the opportunity personally experience the ‘real’ Peru thanks to several can’t-miss events showcasing Lima’s extensive offerings. Being a successful travel professional today means being able to provide the unique details and first-hand experience that means the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable trip for their clients,” said ASTA CEO Tony Gonchar. “There is no other travel industry event like IDE.”
On March 1, attendees will be treated to magical evening at The Magic Water Park, courtesy of APOTUR, the Peruvian Association of Inbound Tour Operators. This welcome event will be an opportunity for participants to experience Lima as the Peruvians do, complete with traditional Peruvian food and gracious hospitality.
Housed in Lima’s historic Parque de la Reserva, the water park is the world’s largest water fountain complex in a public park and features 13 lit fountains choreographed to music, providing attendees with an extraordinary experience. Additionally, the park offers visitors a chance to see sculptures built by some of Peru’s best-known artists.
The following night, the Osma Museum, located in the historic district of Barranco, plays host to the Peru Gala Dinner, sponsored by Prom Peru. This once-private home was built in the early 1900s and today is home to one of Peru’s most impressive art collections with pieces dating back to the 16th century.
The collection features colonial Peruvian art, offering some of the best examples of paintings, sculpture and furniture from the preeminent cultural centers of their day—Cuzco, Arequipa and Ayacucho. It is perhaps best known for its collection religious art and 16th- to 19th-century silver. Attendees will be able to enjoy a guided visit to the museum prior to cocktails and dinner.
IDE is an on-site learning experience that immerses attendees in the destination and provides agents with the skills to market their business and increase sales. Thanks to select partnerships, ASTA says it is able to offer conference delegates special negotiated rates on conference airfare, such as those with LAN Air and hotels throughout Lima.
In addition to training seminars that take agents beyond the classroom and give them real-life experiences to share with their clients, exclusive pre- and post-tour options give attendees the flexibility to extend their journey and learn more about specific business interests, at their own pace and on their own schedule, ASTA notes.
The event also offers agents:
• complimentary sightseeing tours that take them to the places their clients want to visit
• networking opportunities that will translate into future sales
• industry-recognized destination certification
Visit www.ASTA.com