Luxury Travel Expo 2009: Knowledge is Power

From newspapers and magazines to e-mails and social networking—there is information everywhere in the fast-paced world we live in. But how does a luxury travel agent handle the information overload?

I begin my day sifting through e-mails, head straight to a trusted news site and proceed to scouring the trades, including our very own digital editions of Luxury Travel Advisor and Travel Agent magazine. For you, information may be found on your consortium’s Intranet, in an agency’s daily newsletters, on GDS advertising, etc. It is all your choice! We live in the age of information and I can’t tell you how important it is to use it to enhance your knowledge for everyday success.

Look at your industry leaders—people and companies—as a source as well. I am constantly looking both inside and outside of the luxury travel industry to keep myself engaged and brimming with new ideas. I review information from the leading electronic companies, car manufacturers, fashion houses and more.

Our industry affords us a plethora of information, so it is up to you to find what works for you. At Luxury Travel Expo, you can look inside the luxury travel industry to leverage information from the over 25 sessions and more than 75 industry leaders ready to share their knowledge.

Plus, Luxury Travel Expo gives you the chance to learn from top luxury travel advisors, suppliers and association executives. Don’t miss out on our popular general sessions where you will gain an insight on the latest trends and unique revenue streams while amassing professional development and executive insight. Back by popular demand is industry veteran Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso. Be sure to attend as he returns for the second consecutive year to present “Your Return on Life Opportunity” on December 3.

And don’t forget our fantastic speakers like Priscilla Alexander, founder and president, ProTravel International; Terry Dale, president and CEO, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA); Nathan E. Devore, senior vice president, Rich Worldwide Travel (a division of ProTravel International); Jack Mannix, president and CEO, Ensemble Travel Group; Ignacio Maza, executive vice president, Signature Travel Network; and Jim Strong, president, Strong Travel Services.

Invest in yourself and learn how you can adapt to the changing economy.

Attend Luxury Travel Expo so you can leverage all the great opportunities where others see obstacles. Remember, knowledge is power! Use the show to access phenomenal industry knowledge that will help you make a powerful difference in your business. The complete conference program is included in the $65 registration fee (expiring November 21; thereafter $95). I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas!