Industry Leaders Offer Advice, Announce Latest News at LTE

Whether it was to reassure agents about the economy, provide tips on how to improve business or announce his/her company's latest news, leaders in the travel industry engaged in a productive General Session at the Luxury Travel Expo today.

At the beginning of the morning, Art Jimenez of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) welcomed the thousands of agents to Las Vegas before joking about recent construction in Sin City and informing the audience of an upcoming "Crazy Vegas" marketing concept.

Touching on a much discussed topic, Terry Dale, the president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), spoke directly to agents and assured them that the current economic crisis would pass in addition to recommending they elevate themselves during the downturn to stand out.

Audrey Hendley, vice president of marketing for American Express Consumer Travel Network, added more than just her two cents on the economy. In fact, she suggested five exercises agents can practice to improve their business.

In addition to delivering economic advice, the General Session was a platform for announcing the latest news in the travel industry. One such announcement was made by Dan Mahar, CEO of Tauck, about the tour operators new brand, Tauck Culturious, which targets baby boomers.

Wednesday's General Session wrapped up with a speech by Kathleen Taylor, president and COO of Four Seasons, and a daily drawing in which agents win prizes. Today, two agents won a $500 shopping spree from Saks Fifth Avenue.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Luxury Travel Expo by visiting our blogs section.