Halloween is around the corner as I write this, although it’s a recent memory for you, the reader. Halloween reminds me of the delightful fun of a good surprise. Whether it’s a ghostly witch riding a broom from a rooftop down to the sidewalk or live goblins, zombies and monsters sneaking up as you enter the haunted property, surprise is a big factor in the Halloween fun.
Every Halloween season I have great fun with the neighborhood kids. Isn’t it interesting to see how this holiday has evolved into a tourism activity over the last 10 years? Between commercial mazes, haunted houses, zombie fests and scary theme parks, apparently there is a great deal of money to be made in scaring people.
But it won’t be pranks or goblins that surprise you this December at Luxury Travel Exchange. Instead, you’ll be breathless when you see the breadth of the worldwide suppliers at this year’s LTX. With almost 100 exhibitors new to LTX in 2014, we aim to surprise and delight you. I don’t need to tell you that relationships and contacts are the keys to finding great service and fascinating destinations for your discerning clientele.
For the first time, the destination and hotels of the Maldives will be present at LTX. Between their interactive seminar and exhibit, you will gather a wealth of new information and personal contacts. We’ve all heard the glowing reports of travelers fortunate enough to go to the Maldives—it’s your turn to schedule a site visit for yourself after you take a deep dive into the fascinating opportunities presented by this captivating destination.
The Venetian
The Venetian will be your home in Las Vegas during LTX. This world-class resort has every amenity you’ll need to enjoy your stay. You’ll also find that its meetings space is top-notch, offering stellar service and a LEED-certified environment.
Pandaw River Expeditions combines the hot activity of river cruising with the intriguing destinations of Asia to show what’s possible when your clients are seeking something outside of their realm of experience. The Irrawaddy River has tantalizing history and revelations at every turn. With luxury river cruises in Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia, this participating exhibitor will be a popular stop on your “tour” through this year’s LTX.
Sometimes, with our wealth of worldly experience, we forget that our clients may prefer to fulfill their wanderlust needs with a short flight. For them, Sunset Key Resorts at the southernmost point of continental U.S. occupies seven acres of an island off Key West that is filled with cottages designed for the sophisticated traveler.
Other surprises are awaiting your discovery at LTX. You know that personal connections allow you to succeed for your clients. When you meet the general managers, tour leaders and DMC managers, you know you have more control of the situation. Travel can be full of surprises, but the industry connections you have as an advisor have pulled you through tough times. Make the time to meet the new suppliers essential to your business development. Also take a moment to thank the suppliers who have done well for you over the years.
The very best surprise is a warm smile from new friends and colleagues. Make it happen at LTX in Las Vegas, December 9-11. See you there!