Members of the Luxury Travel Exchange International (LTX) Advisory Board are industry leaders, longtime successful business owners, and managers who have built enterprises that created millions in sales.

We had a very exciting and thought-provoking meeting with many of them in New York recently. Hosted by the Omni Berkshire Place, the meeting provided a forum to discuss compelling travel industry issues that could become topics for the next LTX event.

Among the many advisors joining us were leaders in the industry, such as Valerie Wilson of Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc., Jack Mannix of Jack E. Mannix & Associates, Leslie Overton of Absolute Travel, Nathan Devore from Protravel International, and Greg DeClemente of Courtyard Travel. Please visit the website to view the entire board that we are so pleased to work with in shaping Luxury Travel Exchange: www.ltxinternational.com.

What I found most interesting was that these very knowledgeable industry veterans are always eager to learn more about products, destinations, hotels and activities. They want details, specifics, photos and videos of both exotic international and domestic destinations.

Our discussion included a certain airline’s new first-class seating for international trips. One advisor pointed out that if he had not experienced it himself, he would not have known that the configuration was not particularly appropriate for single travelers, but would work nicely for colleagues traveling together, or for a family or couples. This particular experience, described in detail, was informative and specific. All of the advisory board members took note of it.

The board members felt that LTX product sessions conducted by suppliers, properties and destinations can be very informative if focused on very specific and updated information. We definitely will work closely with all LTX speakers to provide sessions that build upon the audience’s existing knowledge.

Another of our advisory boards, the Young Travel Leaders Conference (YTLC) Steering Committee, recently met to begin planning the December 8 conference. Many of these successful advisors have been in the industry less than five years but already are building a strong book of business using new methods of communication, selling and learning. Although we will begin to work on YTLC content at future meetings, it is clear that networking, product knowledge and a greater understanding of the GDS systems are high on the list of topics.

We hope to see you in Las Vegas the week of December 8!

The Palazzo

A masterpiece of exquisite luxury! Embrace the beauty and grace of the all-suite environment at The Palazzo, where you will find plush and comfortable accommodations fitted with Egyptian cotton sheets, fine furnishings and beautiful surroundings. The Palazzo, our headquarters hotel, looks forward to welcoming guests of Luxury Travel Exchange International this December.