Staying Connected

A series of online conversations via virtual roundtables that will help you keep a pulse on the travel industry and hear from your peers on the current climate and future thinking.

“My colleagues and I all agreed it was one of the best and most useful webinars we’ve participated in lately (and as you probably know, there have been a lot of webinars lately!) Looking forward to the next one!”

Stacey Sheetz

Capital Region USA

“The webinar was super helpful! Thank you for all you do to keep us in the know and prepared for the inevitable recovery.  Definitely keep us on your list for all your industry updates.  We’ll be sharing the recommendations with our Colorado destination partners and lodging properties.”

Jennifer Bartlett

Alpert, Colorado Tourism Office

Watch On Demand

Staying Connected with the Family Travel Association

 Thursday, December 9, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the Family Travel market and how you can inspire families to discover what’s possible through travel.

Panelists Include:

  • Jennifer Spatz, Global Family Travels
  • Amy Urquhart, Pure Magic Vacations
  • Carylann Assante, CAE – CEO, SYTA & FTA Treasurer and Board Member
  • Rainer Jenss, Founder, Family Travel Association

Sponsored by

Staying Connected with places.

 Thursday, May 20, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Marina Petrova, CEO / Co-Founder, places.
  • Bruce Amick, COO, places.
  • Jonathan Elkoubi, CCO, places.

Sponsored by

Staying Connected with CVC Corp

 Thursday, May 13, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Fernanda Barbosa Paranhos, North America Product Manager, CVC Corp
  • Nathalia Pacheco de Oliveira Moura, Planning and Development Product Manager, CVC Corp
     

Sponsored by

Staying Connected with SYTA & Student Tour Operators

 Thursday, May 6, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with Carylann Assante, Executive Director, Student Youth Travel Association, and student tour operators located globally to discuss the Student Travel Industry’s Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Carylann Assante, CAE, CEO, SYTA and SYTA Youth Foundation
  • Steve Maehl, Vice President, Global Travel Alliance and SYTA President – United States
  • Marci Ellison Outerbridge, Vice President, Ellison Travel & Tours and SYTA Board of Director – Canada
  • Max Ortega, Deputy CEO, Mundo Joven – Mexico
  • Adele Youngs, Director and Co-Founder, Live Travel and Tours and SYTA Vice President – United Kingdom
  • Shannan Carter, Global Business Development Manager, Live Travel and Tours – Australia and New Zealand
  • Avan Goel, CEO, RIAM Explorers – India

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

 Thursday, April 29, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Gisa Kusserow-Hanson, Senior Product Manager, ATP
  • Jennie Bradford Curlee, TMP, Public Relations/International Sales Director, Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau
  • Joseph Marinelli, President, Visit Savannah

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

 Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Lindsay Hill, Senior Manager, Tourism Sales, Destination DC
  • Mary Rinaldo, Regional VP – Mid Atlantic, City Cruises
  • Rebecca Roberts, Curator of Programming, Planet Word Museum
  • Kristen DeSimone, Director of Marketing, MARS and Companies

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

 Thursday, April 15, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Bertille Hocquet, Managing Director – Groups & Incentive, Contact USA
  • Pauline Deschenes, FIT, Contact USA
  • Nimesh Amlani, General Manager – India, Global Holidays USA
  • Rajesh Surti, Senior Consultant, Global Holidays USA

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

 Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • Tico Soto, President, Tourism Tactics By Tico
  • Tanya Leader, Vice President of Sales, Louisiana Northshore Convention and Visitors Bureau
  • Kathy Formosa, Product Manager, AmericanTours International

Sponsored by

Staying Connected with NYC and Company

 Thursday, April 1, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:

  • John Marshall, Director Tourism Market Development, NYC and Company
  • David Filipiak, Director of Sales, Fotografiska – New York
  • Taylor Spoelstra, Senior Sales Manager, Artechouse – New York
  • Courtenay Betts (she/her), Senior Sourcing and Contracting Manager, EF Explore America

Sponsored by

1-Year Anniversary of Staying Connected

 Thursday, March 25, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with past panelists to see what has changed on their Road to Recovery. Panelists Include:

  • Timo Kohlenberg, President & CEO, America Unlimited GmbH
  • Stephanie Brooks, Director, Contracting, Globus Voyagers Inc. (dba Globus family of brands)
  • Jackie Ennis, Vice President, Global Markets, The Brand USA
  • Will Seccombe, Presiden & CEO, Connect Travel

Sponsored by

Staying Connected with GetYourGuide

 Thursday, March 18, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery. Panelists Include:

  • Sarah Lowe, Destination Manager, Canada East & Florida
  • Lauren Hillhouse, Destination Manager, Hawaii
  • Tilly Hemperger, Senior Destination Manager, New York City
  • Kate Semenova, Senior Destination Manager, Western Canada & Mountain West

Sponsored by

Staying Connected with Tour Operators

Thursday, March 11, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT 
 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery. Panelists Include:

  • Cathy Williaume, Director Associate, REVAMERICA TOURS
  • Emmanuelle Vaugeois Bolanos, Founder, Scenic Roads

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

Thursday, March 4, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery. Panelists Include:
 
  • Catherine Meyer, Springfield Team Lead, Brightspark by WorldStrides
  • Jim Warren, US Groups Specialist, Anderson Vacations  

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

Thursday, Feb 25, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery. Panelists include:
  • Suzanne Kinahan, Product Director, Collette
  • LouAnna Henton, Senior Tourism Sales Manager, Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp
  • Urte Land, CSTP – President, AdvantEdge Tours LLC
  • Kelly Field, General Manager, Madame Tussauds Nashville

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

Thursday, Feb 18, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT

 

Join us as we “Connect” with the Tourism Expert Network (TEN) to discuss the benefits of partnership and how these tourism veterans came together to support the industry they love on its Road to Recovery. Panelists Include:

Panelists:
  • Alfredo Gonzalez, Founding Partner
  • Rafael Villanueva, Founding Partner
  • Faith Selk, Founding Partner
  • Ashlee Ciora, Founding Partner
  • Mike Fullerton, Founding Partner
  • Jennifer  Bartlett-Henriquez, Founding Partner
  • Robert Kaufman, Founding Partner

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

Thursday, February 11, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT

 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists:
  • Lezlie Harper, Founder, Niagara Bound Tours
  • Ally Spongr, Interim Director, Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Centre Museum
  • George Scott, President, Colored Musicians’ Club

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

Thursday, Feb 4, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT

 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists:
  • Melody Jordan, Owner, Front Line Tours
  • Jamie Lynn Thompson, President & CEO, Southern Escape Tours

Sponsored by

Staying Connected

Thursday, January 28, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT

 

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the benefits of partnership and their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.

Panelists Include:
  • Amy DeFrancesco, National Sales Manager, Drury Hotels
  • Jenny Keeton, Director of Operations, Village Travel
  • Tod DeHart, Founder, DIRECTIONS Tours LLC

Sponsored by

Connect with Canadian Tour Operators

Thursday, January 21, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT  

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies on their Road to Recovery.
Panelists Include:
  • Nadine Paulo, VP, Product & Procurement, Kensington Tours
  • Sash Munjal, General Manager, ShortTrips.ca
Sponsored by

Road to Recovery

Thursday, January 14, 2021 | 1 p.m. EDT  

 
Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss best practices in preparing for 2021.
Panelists Include:
  • Pabs Raghava, CEO, Tours Limited 
  • Radhika Tripurani, Sr. Director of Public Relations and Digital Marketing, Tours Limited
  • Madhavi Chimalapati, Sr. Director of Sales and Marketing, Tours Limited
  • Julie Payne, CTP, CTIS, Tourism Enhancement Specialist, Hershey’s Chocolate World
  • Audrey Bialas, Director of Sales, Visit Hershey & Harrisburg 

Sponsored by

Connect Travel’s “Staying Connected” Webinar Series – Year in Review

Thursday, December 17, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT  

Join us and some very special guests as we review the 2020 Staying Connected Webinar Series.

Sponsored by

“Re-Connecting” on the Future of Travel Trade Events

Thursday, December 10, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT  

Join us as we “ReConnect” with industry leaders to discuss potential changes in travel trade events in 2021 and beyond. Panelists include: 
  • Carylann Assante, CAE, CEO, Student & Youth Travel Association
  • Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, President & CEO, American Bus Association
  • Will Seccombe, President & CEO, Connect Travel
  • Malcolm Smith, Senior Vice President Business Development & IPW General Manager, U.S. Travel Association

Sponsored by

Connect With Tour Operators

December 3, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT  

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:
  • Marina Petrova, Founder, places.events
  • Tereza Reis, President, Personal RGE Tours
  • Dave Falsetti, Regional Director – Americas, Musement   

Sponsored by

Connect With Tour Operators

Thursday, November 19, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT  

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:
 
  • Chris Pilley, CEO, Rocky Mountain Holiday Tours, LLC
  • Jeremy Butzlaff, President, MTRWestern
  • Umang Malbari, President, Discover-Destinations  
 
Sponsored by

Connect with Tour Operators

Thursday, November 12, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT  
 
Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:
  • Marko Manojlovic, Amadeo Travel Solutions
  • Tomás Rey, President, Rey Royal
  • Dustin G. Teichman, President/CEO, Good Times Travel, Inc.
Sponsored by 

Connect with Canadian Tour Operators

Thursday, November 5, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT  

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:
  • Kristine Geary, President & CEO, Maple Leaf Tours
  • Chloé Dumont-Samson, Sales & Marketing Manager, Ruby Range Adventure
 
Sponsored by

Connect with Tour Operators

Thursday, October 29, 2020 | 2 p.m. EDT  

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:
  • Michael Marzano, President, FM TOURS 
  • Peio Cuevas, VP Operations & Business Development, SEEUSATOURS.COM 
  • Tim Ulutin, Managing Partner, Incoming America
 
Sponsored by

Connect with Domestic Tour Operators

Thursday, October 22, 2020 | 2 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:

  • Stephanie Brooks, Director of Contracting, The Globus family of brands (Globus, Cosmos, Monograms, Avalon) 
Sponsored by

Connect with Itinerary Planning Experts

Thursday, October 15, 2020 | 2 p.m. EDT

Join us to learn steps our panelists use to create and plan unique itineraries that sell. Panelists Include:

  • Karin Omojola, Vice President of Product, AmericanTours International, LLC
  • Sean Bayliss, President and CEO, International Tourism Resources Group  
Sponsored by

Connect with Expedia 

Thursday, October 8, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Exploring Current Traveler Sentiment and Trends

Panelists Include:
  • Derek E. Price, Director of Business Development – North America, Expedia Group™ Media Solutions
Sponsored by

Connect & ReConnect with Domestic Tour Operators 

Thursday, September 24, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect & ReConnect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:

  • Julie Katz, Owner, TourMappers North America, LLC
  • Lauren Grote, Tour/Travel Director, Rills Bus Service
  • Elaine Moulder, Owner, Brilliant Edventures  
Sponsored by

Connect & ReConnect with Domestic Tour Operators 

Thursday, September 17, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect & ReConnect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies.  Hear From:
  • Keith Snode, Chief Operating Officer, Kaleidoscope Adventures
  • Rich Bradley, CTA, President & CEO, Original Orlando Tours
  • Jennifer Simpson, Chief Experience Officer, Bespoke Experiences 
  • Steve Maehl, Vice President Field Operations, Global Travel Alliance
  • Matthew Granger, Director of Sales, Guardian Music and Group Travel
Sponsored by

Connect with Hotelbeds

Thursday, September 10, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we Connect with panelists across all Hotelbeds divisions to discuss best practices and potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:  
  • Renata Cenni, Regional Manager Southwest, Hotelbeds
  • Bill Chambers – Regional Manager Rest of West, Hawaii & Canada
  • Roberta Chiappero, Area Yield Manager Southwest, Hotelbeds
  • Alice Kilpatrick, Regional Manager Southeast, Hotelbeds
  • Aline Magalhaes, Area Yield Manager – Northeast, Hotelbeds
  • Ruben Mordan, Area Contract Manager – South East, Hotelbeds
  • Joseph Sheller, Head of Partner Marketing, Hotelbeds
  • Jayne Stones, Head of Sourcing USA and Canada, Beyond The Bed | Hotelbeds 

Sponsored by

Connect & ReConnect with Domestic Tour Operators

Thursday, September 3, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect & ReConnect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies.  Hear From:
  • Mellonee Owenby, President, Christian Tours/Burke International Tours
  • Nick Hentschel, COO, AmericanTours International  
  • Joey Spellerberg, President, Moostash Joe Tours
 

Sponsored by

Connect with AAA

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we Connect with AAA Clubs to discuss best partnership practices and potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Panelists Include:

  • Michael Ziegler, Director, Strategic Partnerships, AAA Northeast
  • Samantha Hargis, Travel Agent, AAA Ohio Auto Club  
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com  

Post Paralysis – Being a Smarter, Faster, Quicker DMO

Wednesday, August 19, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

  • Alisa Bailey, President, Alisa Bailey Consulting Travel & Tourism
  • David Downing, President of Brand, United Landmark Associates
  • Josh Collins, Director, Destination Activation + Marketing, Streetsense

Moderated by

Connect with International Tour Operators

Thursday, August 20, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists from the UK and Irish markets to discuss the current climate and potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Hear From:

  • Liz Wright, Product Manager, TourAmerica
  • Alain Kasteleyn, Director and Product Manager, Discover North America
  • Stam Tzafos, Product Manager USA & Europe, THG Holidays  

Sponsored by

Connect & ReConnect with Domestic Tour Operators

Thursday, August 13, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect & ReConnect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Hear From:  
  • Jann Parker, CEO, Travelinfo2Go
  • Dennis Lyons, Vice President/ Coach & Tour Group, DATTCO
  • Cynthia Billette, Owner, Columbia Crossroads
  • James Rider, Owner, Group Tours USA
     
Sponsored by

Connect with International Tour Operators

Thursday, August 6, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists from the Japanese market to discuss the current climate and potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Hear From:
  • Mr. Romeo Dublin, Inbound Sales Department, Nippon Travel Agency America, Inc
  • Mr. Shunji Uchida, Inbound Sales Department, Nippon Travel Agency America, Inc
  • Mr. Toshi Koseki, General Manager, TTA, INC.
Sponsored by

Agility and Fast Marketing

Wednesday, August 5, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Panelists Include:
  • Brian Wagner, Assistant Commissioner, Marketing, Tennessee Tourism
  • Scott Schult, Executive Vice President of Marketing, Visit Myrtle Beach
  • Josh Collins, Director, Destination Activation + Marketing, Streetsense  
Moderated by

Connect with International Tour Operators

Thursday, July 30, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists from the UK and Irish markets to discuss the current climate and potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Hear From:

 

  • Claire Doherty, Product Director, Travel Department
  • Maggi Smit, Managing Director, America As You Like It  
  • Susan Stiner, Head of Purchasing North America, WebBeds
 
Sponsored by

Connect with Travel Agents

Thursday, July 23, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect” with panelists to discuss the current climate and potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. 
Panelists Include: 
  • Mickey McBride, Director of Partner Engagement and Development, Avoya Travel
  • Beth Hill, CEO, Mangata Travel
  • Anneke M. Marchese, Owner & Travel Designer, AM/FM Leisure & Adventure Travel
Sponsored by

Pivot and Innovation in Travel: More Than Just Buzzwords

Wednesday, July 22, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Original 2020 marketing plans have been thrown out. Join the conversation about new ideas tourism marketers should consider for the remainder of the year and 2021.    

Panelists Include:
  • Ann Marie Maher, CDME, Director of Tourism, Prince William County Office of Tourism 
  • Sonya Bradley, Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Sacramento 
  • Josh Collins, Director, Destination Activation + Marketing, Streetsense  
Moderated by

Connect & Reconnect with Receptive Tour Operators 

Thursday, July 16, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we “Connect & ReConnect” with panelists to discuss potential changes with their ongoing operational strategies. Hear from:
  • Tresie Benoit, Director Contracting North America, W2M
  • Kari Bigot, GTP, VP, Head of North America Sales, ALTOUR
  • Chris Ellis, CEO, 7M Travel Holdings
  • Faisal Sublaban, SVP of Hotels for Internova Travel Group and CEO of Bonotel Exclusive Travel
Sponsored by

Coming out of the Shutdown: There will be winners and losers. Where will you land?

Wednesday, July 8, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

 Panelists Include:
  • Will Seccombe, President and CEO, Connect Travel
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense
 
Moderated by

When is the “Right Time” to market and sell to the trade?

Thursday, June 25, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join us as we discuss best practices in messaging, timing, and selling through the pandemic crisis. Panelists include: 
  • Laurel Bennett, CTIS, Vice President, Tourism Sales, Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp
  • Liliana Rivera, Senior Director of Tourism, VisitDallas
  • Roxanna Torrens, Senior Director of Travel Industry Sales, earlenterprises®
  • Jodi Cumming, Senior Director of Tourism Development, PIER 39
  • Julie Payne, CTP, CTIS, President, Attractour
  • Isaac Pacheco, Director of Sales, National September 11 Memorial & Museum
  • Daniel Schwartz, Director, Global Tourism Development, San Francisco Travel Association
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

Think Differently: How Do We Balance Industry Demands with Resident Sentiment?

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join this important conversation focused on the role that the travel industry and DMO’s play in the post pandemic economic and community recovery plans. Panelists Include:

  • Valerie Bradley, Vice President Marketing, Visit Macon
  • Ali Daniels, Senior Vice President / Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Seattle
  • Amrita Gurney, Vice President of Marketing, CrowdRiff  
  • Genyne Edwards, Partner, P3 Development Group
  • Steve Paganelli, Head of Destination Marketing, Americas, TripAdvisor
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

Moderated by

Connect with Student Tour Operators

Thursday, June 18, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join student tour operators to discuss the current climate and how they are moving forward. Panelists Include:
  • Bryan Cole, President, Super Holiday Tours
  • Keith Snode, Chief Operating Officer, Kaleidoscope Adventures 
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

Should There Be A New ROI for Travel & Tourism?

Wednesday, June 17, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

How do you measure ROI? Is it time to overhaul the metrics that we use to gauge success? Panelists Include: 
  • Gathan Borden, Vice President of Marketing, VisitLEX
  • Justin Bresler, Vice President, Marketing and Business Development, Visit Denver 
  • Susan Whitaker, Principal, Whitaker Travel & Tourism Strategies
  • Mitch Whitten, Executive Vice President for Marketing & Strategy, Visit Fort Worth
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

Moderated by Streetsense

Connect with Domestic Operators

Thursday, June 11, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

Join domestic tour operators to discuss the latest on the current climate and what preparations are underway to move forward.  

  • Charlene Troggio, Owner, Breakaway Tours
  • Suzanne Slavitter CTP, CTIE, Owner, Sports Empire Inc. / Authentic California Vacations
  • Joey Spellerberg, President, Moostash Joe Tours
  • Gary L. Haverkamp, CTC, Product Manager, Vacations By Rail – A Great Rail Journeys Company

Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

The Story Behind the Numbers: Where Are We Going?

Wednesday, June 10, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT
 
Join this conversation to get a better understanding of where the travel industry is going and the story behind what the data is telling us.
  • Jamie Lane, Sr. Director, Economics & Forecasting, CBRE
  • Jay Kinghorn, Entrada Insights
  • Allison Schult, Principal & Chief Navigator, Mile Marker 630
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense  
Moderated by

The Future of Travel Trade Events

 
Thursday, June 4, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT

 

Trade events and conferences remain a vital role in our industry. Connect with industry leaders to hear how events will evolve moving forward. Panelists include: 

  • Carylann Assante, CAE, CEO, Student & Youth Travel Association
  • Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, President & CEO, American Bus Association
  • Will Seccombe, President & CEO, Connect Travel
  • Malcolm Smith, Senior Vice President Business Development & IPW General Manager, U.S. Travel Association 
 
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

Think Differently: It is time for DMOs to work with Local Tours, Activities, Attractions & Experiences 

Wednesday June 3, 2020 | 1 p.m. EDT
 
It’s time to think differently about what can be a super important distribution channel, especially as recovery begins and destinations are primed to work with partners to build local tourism and, when ready, destination tourism. Panelists include: 
 
  • Robert Graff, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Bindlestiff Tours- National Parks Adventures
  • Maureen Haley, Vice President of Strategic Tourism Initiatives, Visit Houston
  • Jay Judal, Director of Outside Sales, San Diego Zoo
  • Mo Parikh, CEO, Bandwango
  • Eric Thompson, Vice President of Marketing, Visit Salt Lake
  • Bruce Rosard, Co-founder & COO, ArivalWill Seccombe, President, Connect Travel
Co-produced with Arival
 

Connect with Tour Operators

Thursday, May 28, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Join international tour operators to discuss the latest on the current climate. Panelists include:
  • Dave Cecco, Director of Product, WestJet Vacations
  • Jeff Karnes, Executive Vice President, New World Travel
  • Michael Marzano, President, FM Tours
  • Ernesto Tecco, Group Manager | Business Partner, 5A Incentive Planners
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

 

How to Connect Arts, Culture, Heritage and Performance Experiences into the Current Travel Climate 

Wednesday, May 27, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Join this conversation to hear about the connection of arts, culture, heritage and  performance experiences amidst the current travel climate and forecast recovery in 2021. Join: 
  • Staci Mellman, Chief Marketing Officer, VISIT FLORIDA
  • Richard Peterson, President & CEO, U.S. Cultural & Heritage Marketing Council
  • Seth Spillman, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, National Cowboy Museum
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense
Moderated by Streetsense

 

Developing Product Post-COVID

Thursday, May 21, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Connect with Brand USA and Miles Partnership to hear how to work with the travel trade to develop cross-state, regional trips and packages. Panelists include:
  • Jackie Ennis, Vice President Global Trade Development, Brand USA
  • Paul Winkle, Sr. Vice President Global Marketing, Miles Partnership
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

 

How Destinations are Using Social Media Now and into the Next Normal

Wednesday, May 20, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Join DMOs and brand experts who will discuss ideas for social media now and into the next normal. Hear from:
  • Adam Stoker, President/CEO, Relic Agency
  • Anastasia Straley, Destination Social Media Manager
  • Katie Utken, Digital Marketing Manager, Hamilton County Tourism Inc.
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense
  • Liz Mabe, Director of Digital Marketing, Discover Puerto Rico
Moderated by Streetsense

 

Connect with International Tour Operators

Thursday, May 14, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Join international tour operators to discuss the latest on the current climate. Panelists include:
  • Elvi Cal, Vice President Product Development, TravelBrands Inc.
  • Wolfgang Hendrix, CEO, Wolf Consultancy BV | UStravel.nl | CanadaTravel.nl
Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

 

The Post COVID-19 Brand Position: Is Your DMO Ready? 

Wednesday, May 13, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Join DMOs and brand experts as the dive into the post COVID-19 brand position that will have you asking if your DMO is ready. 
  • Kylie Boring, Director of Marketing, Visit Tupelo
  • Steve Chandler, Owner, Chandler Thinks
  • Martin Stoll, CEO, Sparkloft
  • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

Moderated by Streetsense

Crisis into Marketing Opportunity: Timo Kohlenberg Tells You what you Shouldn’t miss!

Friday, May 8, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

Join us for conversation with Susanne Loomis, Marketing Director and Timo Kohlenberg, CEO, America Unlimited to discuss why Germany should be on top of your list to promote travel to the U.S.

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

     

    Connect with Canadian and Mexican Tour Operators Virtual Roundtable

    Thursday, May 7, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join Canadian and Mexican tour operators to hear the latest on the current climate. Hear from:
    • Karla Urias, Owner, PasswordTravel.com | ViajaTravel.com
    • Kristine Geary, President & CEO, Maple Leaf Tours
    •  Alberto Cervera, Head of Mexico, TUI GROUP

     

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand.com

    Influencing Travel Post-COVID-19 

    Wednesday, May 6, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT
    Join brand experts, DMOs and influencers as they discuss how you can influence travel in the new normal.
    • Jade Broadus, Vice President & Creative Director, Travel Mindset
    • Kristin Luna, Journalist and Blogger, Camels & Chocolate
    • Matt Maxey, Associate Director of Public Relations, Visit Franklin  
    • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

    Moderated by Streetsense

    Connect with Domestic Tour Operators Virtual Roundtable

    Thursday, April 30, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join domestic tour operators across the U.S. to discuss the latest on the current climate. Hear from:

    • Julie Gagnon, General Manager, Jolly Tours and Travel   
    • Dennis Lyons, Assistant Vice President / Coach & Tour Group, DATTCO

    Moderated by TourOperatorLand

    The Spirit of Travel – How to Inspire Your Audience During NTTW and Beyond

    Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join DMOs across the U.S. as they discuss marketing plans for the upcoming National Travel and Tourism Week and for the months to come.

    • Gathan Borden, Vice President of Marketing, VisitLEX
    • Melissa Gogel, Vice President of Marketing, Tourism & Communications, Visit Phoenix 
    • Wes Rhea, CEO, Visit Stockton
    • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

    Moderated by Streetsense

    Connect with Domestic Tour Operators

    Thursday, April 23, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join domestic tour operators across the U.S. to discuss the latest on the current climate. Hear from:

    • Bob Cline, President, US Tours  
    • Tim Patrick, CTC, Director of Product Development, Mayflower Cruises & Tours 
    • Irene M. Vecchi, Global Chains Leader – Global Procurement Network, Flight Centre

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand

    Essential vs. Non-Essential – The New Normal of Marketing Stacks 

    Wednesday, April 22, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join DMOs and brand experts as they discuss the new normal of marketing stacks. Our panelists include:
    • Amrita Gurney, Vice President of Marketing, CrowdRiff
    • Dan Rosenbaum, Director, Global Digital Marketing, San Francisco Travel
    • Matthew Smith, President, Plan Left
    • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

    Moderated by Streetsense

    Connect with Air Service Development Industry Experts 

    Thursday, April 16, 2020 | 3:30 p.m. EDT

    Join air service development experts across the U.S. to discuss the latest on the current climate. Hear from:

    • Kevin Healy, President & CEO, Campbell-Hill Aviation Group, LLC
    • Vicki Jaramillo, Senior Director, Marketing & Air Service Development, Orlando International Airport
    • Laura L Jackson, Vice President, Air Service Development, Denver International Airport
    • Kazue Ishiwata, Senior Manager Air Service Development, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport  

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand

    RESET: Parsing the New Normal in Destination Marketing 

    Wednesday, April 15, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join DMOs and brand experts as they analyze the new normal in destination marketing. Our panelists include: 
    • Leroy Bridges, Vice President, Digital & Communications, Visit St. Pete/Clearwater
    • Tedd Evers, Founder & CEO, TripTuner  
    • Andi Thoreson, Director of Marketing, Visit Fargo-Moorhead
    • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense

    Moderated by Streetsense

     

    Connect with International Tour Operators 

    Thursday, April 9, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join international tour operators to discuss the latest on the current climate. Hear from:

    • Timo Kohlenberg, President and CEO, America Unlimited

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand

    Connect with DMOs from Around the U.S. 

    Wednesday, April 8, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Our first marketing virtual roundtable brings together brand experts and DMOs to discuss planning for destination marketing in the post coronavirus landscape. Our panelists include:

    • Zeek Coleman, Director of Data Intelligence, Visit Savannah
    • Josh Collins, Director Destination Activations and Marketing, Streetsense
    • Jeff Robinson, Director of Marketing, Visit Indy
    • Will Seccombe, President, Connect Travel

    Moderated by Streetsense

     

    Connect with Receptive Tour Operators 

    Thursday, April 2, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join Connect Travel for Virtual Roundtable discussions with RTOs and learn the best way we can help now on their path forward. Hear from:

    • Jack Lok, Advisor, Universal Vision
    • Charles Zhao, Managing Director, CP Trip Service Inc.
    • Tresie Benoit, Director Contracting North America, W2M World2Meet
    • Tereza Reis, President, Personal RGE Tours

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand

    Connect with Receptive Tour Operators

    Thursday, March 26, 2020 | 1:00 p.m. EDT

    Join RTOs across the U.S. to discuss the latest on the current climate and learn the best way we can help them now on their path forward. Hear from:

    • Chris Ellis, CEO, 7M Travel Holdings
    • Peio Cuevas, VP Operations & Business Development, See USA Tours
    • Katja Jahn, Head of Destination Management, G2 Travel
    • Tim Ulutin, Managing Partner, Incoming America

    Sponsored by TourOperatorLand