Both the Puerto Rico Tourism Co. and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) welcomed the American Society of Travel Agent's (ASTA) announcement that San Juan, Puerto Rico, will be the host of the sixth annual International Destination Expo (IDE), April 14-17, 2011. The event includes ship inspections at the Port of San Juan, discounted ASTA membership and destination certification.
“Now, with the addition of ship inspections, it's even more important for agents to take advantage of this opportunity to experience firsthand the exciting tourism attractions Puerto Rico has to offer,” said Chris Russo, ASTA president and chair. “Attendees will have the chance to discover and sample both the old and new world. ”
Agents who sign up to attend IDE Puerto Rico who are not already ASTA members will receive discounted ASTA membership. For only $125 instead of the regular $277, these agents will receive benefits ASTA provides its members throughout the year.
“While many people may have been fortunate enough to visit Puerto Rico in the past, make no mistake there are numerous new developments, starting with our newly inaugurated, state-of-the-art convention center in San Juan which will play home to the 2011 IDE,” said Gabriel R. Emanuelli, director of sales and marketing for North America for the Puerto Rico Tourism Co.
“The Caribbean Tourism Organization is delighted to welcome ASTA and its members to the first ever International Destination Expo to be held in one of our member-countries,” said Caribbean Tourism Organization Secretary General and CEO Hugh Riley. “As the world’s most tourism dependent region, the Caribbean relies heavily upon the knowledge and expertise of travel professionals to help guide visitors to a superb vacation experience.”
ASTA’s Puerto Rico and USVI chapter, together with the Puerto Rico Tourism Co., will be offering a “Travel Expert” destination certification along with pre- and post-tours in all regions of Puerto Rico. Additional pre- and post-tours will give delegates the opportunity to explore Caribbean islands beyond the shores of Puerto Rico.
Visit www.asta.org/events.