Post on 25-Sep-2020
BY HARVEY CHIPKIN
With a brand-new format, the “Taste of
America” networking luncheon today will
ensure that IPW buyers get to enjoy foods
representing regions and attractions from
around the United States. And they will also
get a taste of American culture, entertainment
and history. The event will offer excellent
networking opportunities as attendees will be
free to move around and dine in an informal
manner. The room will be divided into six
sections, with sponsors providing unique
entertainment, prizes and information in their
respective areas. There will also be videos
from each sponsor on 10 large screens.
Aramark, the catering company, and the
U.S. Travel Association worked together
to create a menu representative of the
various regions and cosponsors. Twenty
double-sided buffets — all of which will
serve the same food with each dish labeled
— will feature distinctive cuisine to provide
delegates with a lavish meal as a special
closing IPW luncheon.
Wednesday’s luncheon sponsors are:
Visit Anchorage (DMO for Anchorage,
Alaska); Visit California; Illinois Offi ce of
Tourism; Travel Oregon; SeaWorld Parks &
Entertainment; and Texas Tourism.
Here’s a snapshot of what delegates can
enjoy during this much-anticipated event:
Illinois Offi ce of Tourism: The state will be
represented at the buffet by Chicago-style
hot dogs, complete with relish, mustard,
BY MARK CHESNUT
This year’s IPW has been a resounding
success, according to Roger Dow, president
and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “This
is one for the record books,” he told delegates
during a press conference on Tuesday
morning.
Dow reported that more than 6,000
attendees registered for IPW 2013, with
90,000-plus prescheduled appointments,
1,300 booths on the Marketplace fl oor and
more than 500 journalists covering the event.
Dow also highlighted recent success in
making the United States a more welcoming
place for international visitors. “We’ve made
dramatic progress on travel promotion and
visa reform.” He promised that U.S. Travel will
continue to urge the U.S. government to add
more countries to the Visa Waiver Program,
noting that Chile is on track to be added as
early as next year. “We’re pushing very hard
to add Brazil, Argentina, Israel and Poland,” he
added.
In addition, U.S. Travel offi cially announced
its upcoming lineup of IPW host cities,
starting with Chicago next year; the last time
the Windy City hosted was in 1998. Other
destinations gearing up to welcome future
IPW delegates include: Orlando in 2015, Miami
in 2016, Washington, D.C. in 2017, Denver in
2018, Anaheim in 2019 and Las Vegas once
again in 2020.
INSIDE NEWS EVENTS
P U B L I S H E D B Y T R AV E L W E E K LY I N C O O P E R AT I O N W I T H T H E U . S . T R AV E L A S S O C I AT I O N
IPW 2013 Sets Records
8:30 a.m. – 3:50 p.m. Business Appts.
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Partner Marketing Pavilion
12:25 – 1:40 p.m. Lunch: Taste of America
4:00 p.m. American Express Prize Drawing
Evening Event Caesars Palace
Tonight’s event, sponsored by Caesars Entertainment, Las Vegas CVA and Nevada Commission on Tourism will close IPW in fashion. Caesars Palace will host the star-studded evening, featuring headliner performances and world-class cuisine. White cocktail attire is suggested.
2 IPW HIGHLIGHTS
12 TASTE OF AMERICA
14 CHICAGO READY FOR
2014
IPW DailyWednesday, June 12, 2013
USA TRAVEL TIPTo help international visitors
explore the diverse travel
possibilities America has to offer,
Brand USA provides valuable
resources, including information
on destinations, activities,
accommodations, transportation,
entrance and visa requirements,
currency exchange and more at
discoveramerica.com.
continued on page 8
Taste, See, Experience America
IPW delegates got a live glimpse of Broadway at Tuesday’s luncheon, when medleys were performed from Stomp, Wicked, Chicago, Once and Kinky Boots. The luncheon was sponsored by NYC & Company and The Broadway Collection.
IPW DailyWednesday, June 12, 2013
2 I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
Honoring Top Travel BuyersNORTHSTAR Travel Media/Travel Weekly in cooperation with the U.S. Travel Association.
VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONSGreg StaleyDIRECTOR INDUSTRY COMMUNCIATIONSAllie BarthMANAGER INDUSTRY COMMUNICATIONSSarah Erdman
EDITORMary Pat SullivanMANAGING EDITORKerry TiceONSITE REPORTERMark ChesnutONSITE PHOTOGRAPHERRalf-Finn HestoftPRODUCTION MANAGERMichele GarthPRODUCTION ASSISTANTGayle GraizzaroART DIRECTORDavid MacfarlaneELECTRONIC PRE-PRESSPatrick FoxDIRECTOR,CUSTOMCONTENTIrene Korn
To inquire about advertising in Travel Weekly Products please contact Bruce Shulman, AssociatePublisher/National Accounts: (561)799-1788 bshulman@travelweekly.com
NORTHSTAR Travel Media/Travel Weekly headquarters, 100 Lighting Way, 2nd Floor, Secaucus, NJ 07094; (201) 902-2000; www.travelweekly.comMaterial in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission. Copyright 2013 by NORTHSTAR Travel Media LLC. All rights reserved. Printed in USA.
Chairman and Chief Executive Of cerThomas L. KempExecutive Vice President/Group PublisherRobert G. SullivanExecutive Vice President, Digital MediaThomas CintorinoVice President/Group PublisherBernard SchraerVice President/Editorial DirectorLori Ciof Senior Vice President/Editor-In-ChiefArnie WeissmannSenior Vice President, Human ResourcesJanine L. BavosoVice President, Marketing SolutionsMichelle RosenbergVice President, Product Development and ProductionRoberta MullerVice President, Content LicensingSheila RiceVice President, IT Infrastructure andOperationsRich MastropietroVice President, Database ProductsElizabeth Koesser
SUPPLIERS: ON-SITE REGISTRATION
Back by popular demand, registration for next year’s IPW will be open on-site beginning on Saturday. Self-serve kiosks will be accessible in the Central Concourse and within each lounge on the Marketplace Hall fl oor during show hours. On-site registration renewal provides the following benefi ts:
• Extra savings on both booth and delegate rates:• Earn priority appointment scheduling; and• Enter to win a complimentary booth and
registration for three delegates.Questions? Contact Sarah Dickson, director, exhibitions, sponsorships & advertising sales at 202.408.2134IPW 2014: Chicago is expected to sell out. Reserve your spot before leaving Las Vegas!
1. Chairman’s Circle honorees Julia Kohlenberg and Timo Kohlenberg of America Unlimited arrive at The Venetian for a special evening recognizing top international buyers for their contributions to the U.S. travel industry.
2. Stopping to chat during the reception were Annette Weishaar of Caesars Entertainment, Gary Oster of the U.S. Travel Association and Noah Tratt of Expedia Media Solutions.
3. Among the honorees present were Bobby Valenciano and Kazuhiro Shima, both of H.I.S. International Tours in Los Angeles and Toru Furusawa of JTB Corp. in Tokyo. The event was hosted by IHG® Family of Brands, and The Venetian | The Palazzo, an Intercontinental Alliance® Resort.
4. NYC & Company’s Fred Dixon, CityPASS’s Mike Gallagher and U.S. Travel Association’s Malcolm Smith pose for a shot prior to dinner at Delmonico Steakhouse.
5. Roger Dow of the U.S. Travel Association and Chris Thompson of Brand USA toasted to the success of Elske Doets and Priscilla Melse, both of Jan Doets America Tours in Heerhugowaard, the Netherlands.
1
3
2
4
5
Group Sales: 702.770.7280 | small.groups@wynnlasvegas.com | wynnlasvegas.com
Please visit us at booth #1708
A Dream For EveryoneLe Rêve – The Dream offers breathtaking performances
that translate to a global audience of any size.
03PW0612.indd 3 6/3/13 11:27 AM
IPW DailyWednesday, June 12, 2013
4 I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
Broadway Comes Alive at IPW
1. Delegates were treated to a live performance from Kinky Boots, which recently won six Tony Awards.
2. U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow got into the action on Tuesday, helping the cast of Stomp produce its own unique sound.
3. Grammy® and now Tony Award winner Cyndi Lauper, the composer and lyricist of Broadway’s Kinky Boots, served as emcee of the star-studded luncheon event.
4. The percussion group Stomp wowed the IPW audience with its creative use of everyday objects to make music.
5. Considering it is next year’s IPW host city, it was especially appropriate that cast members from the hit musical Chicago took to the stage.
6. The smash Broadway musical Wicked brought a bit of Oz-inspired excitement to the Tuesday luncheon event.
1 2 32
54
6
WELCOME TO IPW LAS VEGASWe have an amazing event waiting for you.
STARGAZING: A WHITE HOT AFFAIR AT CAESARS PALACEWEDNESDAY, JUNE 12, 8-11 P.M.
The culminating event of IPW will be a truly star-studded opportunity to mix and mingle. “Stargazing: A White Hot Affair,” at Caesars Palace, will feature performances from a constellation of
headliners from Caesars Entertainment as well as a special guest appearance by the incomparable Celine Dion. Set against the captivating backdrop of the hotel’s Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis, the
glitzy gathering will feature world-class cuisine and perfectly mixed cocktails. Enjoy exclusive Caesars Palace surprises and an astronomical fireworks display to complete an evening under the stars.
White cocktail attire is suggested.
Transportation begins at 7:30 p.m.Bellagio guests can take the sidewalk to Caesars Palace.
We look forward to you coming back to visit.
05PW0612.indd 5 6/3/13 12:14 PM
I P W D A I L Y A D V E R T I S E M E N T
Wednesday, June 12, 2013 IPW Daily
Michael Jackson and Cirque du SoleilBY RONALD CLÉMENT
With the upcoming premiere
of Michael Jackson ONE on the
Strip this month, Mandalay Bay
can now lay claim to being the
new home of the King of Pop.
Michael Jackson ONE is a sonic,
tonic fusion of acrobatics,
dance and visuals that takes
the audience on an immersive
journey through the music and
spirit of Michael Jackson.
Michael Jackson’s music had
an epic force that emanated
from his tremendous focusing
power, his unique voice as
well as his charisma and
energy on stage that would
leave concertgoers breathless.
In ONE, Jackson’s physical,
percussive, operatic, funky,
pop rock and soul-driven
artistry illuminates the whole
production.
Designed especially for the
Michael Jackson ONE Theatre,
the riveting, state-of-the-art
surround-sound environment
gives fans an opportunity to
hear Michael’s multi-layered
music like they have never
heard it before. Seventy
percent of Jackson’s No. 1 hits
presented at full length, in fact.
Some of the sound feels like it
surrounds you or comes from
above or even behind you —
such as Vincent Price’s laugh at
the end of “Thriller” — literally
sending chills down your neck.
The artistry and essence of
Michael Jackson are expressed
through the vibrant energy
of the cast of 63 dancers
and performers hailing
from 17 different countries,
underscored by aerial
performance, driving acrobatics
and vivid choreographies that
use the urban/hip hop idiom as
a springboard for exploration.
The costumes have a graphic,
illustration look and feel and
integrate clever quick-change
effects using black light and
CO2 explosions.
In an immersive, versatile set
inspired by the “Dangerous”
album cover, ONE takes the
audience through a series of
seamless visual and musical
tableaux, at the heart of a world
that is in turn majestic, playful,
magical and heart-warming.
The sprawling video projections
and the action that sometimes
takes to the sky — unfolding
from two rails suspended high
above the audience — also
contribute to the immersive
experience.
As the show unfolds and we
delve deeper into this “close
encounter” with the King of
Pop and his artistic vision,
Michael is defi nitely close by.
Not only do we catch glimpses
of him performing on the
massive projection surfaces, he
makes his scintillating presence
felt by nudging the four
protagonists along.
Filled with the theatrical
wizardry and signature
acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil,
ONE is a heartfelt tribute to
the work, innovative spirit and
legacy of Michael Jackson, one
of the most beloved artists of
all time — the King of Pop, the
genius, the visionary, the One.
For more information on
Michael Jackson ONE or any
of the other Cirque du Soleil
productions, please see a
Cirque du Soleil representative
at IPW booth 1844.
Offer Your Clients a World of Imagination
For information on Cirque du Soleil touring show productions, please contact
groupsales@cirquedusoleil.com or 866.624.7783
LLaaas Veegggass
9 unique shows that will expandtheir horizons and awaken their wonder
AT WALT DISNEYWORLD RESORT
orlando
AT MANDALAY BAY RESORT AND CASINO
LUXOR
AT ARIA RESORT & CASINO
las vegas
AT TREASURE ISLAND AT BELLAGIO LIVE AT MGM GRAND
AT THE MIRAGE AT NEW YORK-NEW YORK
07PW0612.indd 7 6/3/13 12:16 PM
continued on page 16
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
IPW Daily
8
SEVEN INCREDIBLE SHOWSONE EASY CALL
At Planet Hollywood At Paris
At Caesars Palace At Harrah’s Las Vegas At Harrah’s Las Vegas
At The Venetian At The Venetian
www.BASEentertainment.com
One Point of Contact | Priority Seating | Net Rates
866-633-0195 or 702-853-5950FIT@BASEentertainment.com
Universal Upgrades on Both Coasts
rooms at value-price
levels.
The addition of this
property — inspired by
the beach resorts of the
1950s and 1960s — will
give international and
domestic visitors alike
on-site options they’ve
never had before,
according to Dennis
Quinn, the resort’s
vice president for
destination sales. “The
opening of Cabana Bay
and value-based price
points. Universal’s
Cabana Bay Beach
Resort will be built on
a 37-acre site within
Universal Orlando Resort
(adjacent to Islands of
Adventure) and will be
the company’s fourth
property, but the fi rst of
its collection to cater to
these distinct markets:
families seeking suite
accommodations for
up to six, and those
searching for standard
simulator attraction. Modeled after the
one in its sister park, Universal Orlando
Resort, the attraction will include a
few surprises unique to its Hollywood
locale.
USH will open up Universal Plaza
this summer, a dining and relaxed area
in a Hollywood setting. The location
is still reeling from the success of its
“Transformers: The Ride – 3D,” which
launched last year and has received
critical acclaim as the No. 1 ride in
Southern California by About.com.
Universal Orlando Resort has news of
its own. The destination company has
partnered with Loews Hotels & Resorts
to debut a new dual-experience
property in 2014, featuring a total
of 1,800 family suites and standard
rooms (900 of each) at both moderate
BY KERRY TICE
Whether travelers are seeking a theme
park adventure on the West or East Coast,
both Universal Studios Hollywood and the
Universal Orlando Resort are ready to
deliver with new attractions and a new
hotel property.
In exciting news for Harry Potter fans,
Universal Studios Hollywood (USH) will
break ground on its very own “Wizarding
World of Harry Potter” at the end of
this summer. An opening date has not
yet been announced, but offi cials at the
theme park are promising “a magical
experience faithful to the landscape of
the fi lm,” according to Thomas See, vice
president of sales for USH. Furthermore,
the theme park is excited to announce the
addition in 2014 of “Despicable Me Minion
Mayhem,” a 3D Ultra HD movie motion-
ANCHORMANTHE LEGEND OF RON BURGUNDY
THE EXHIBIT
“It’s kind of
a big deal.”
Nov. 14, 2013 – Aug. 31, 2014
ANCHORMAN 2: THE LEGEND CONTINUES Opens Nationwide Dec. 20, 2013
newseum.org Washington, D.C.NEWSEUM
Visit us at booth 918!
HAPPY CUSTOMERS MAKE BETTER BUSINESSWe put you first: for mobile ticketing; a bespoke agent website; a brilliant customer app. Big innovations for better business. And that’s just the start…
VISIT US AT BOOTH #1981
GREAT CITIES. GREAT STORIES. GREAT OPPORTUNITIES.
first
09PW0612.indd 9 6/3/13 12:17 PM
I P W D A I L Y A D V E R T I S E M E N T
Wednesday, June 12, 2013 IPW Daily
SeaWorld Celebrates 50 YearsIPW Daily received an update
on all the exciting news at
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
from Peter Frey, senior
marketing offi cer.
SeaWorld has such a broad
offering for visitors. With
11 world class parks, what
options are available through
SeaWorld?
For more than 50 years, we
have been a leading theme park
and entertainment company
delivering personal, interactive
and educational experiences
that blend imagination with
nature. SeaWorld Parks &
Entertainment™ is best known
for our 11 U.S. theme parks,
attractions that hosted more
than 24 million guests in 2012,
and the beloved SeaWorld®,
Busch Gardens®, and Sesame
Place® brands.
In Florida, SeaWorld®
Orlando, Aquatica, SeaWorld’s
WaterparkTM, Discovery Cove®
Orlando and Busch Gardens®
Tampa provide a wide variety
of experiences — both land and
sea — for the ultimate theme
park vacation. SeaWorld San
Diego continues to offer new
experiences, from attractions
like Turtle Reef and the park’s
fi rst roller coaster, Manta®, to
the new water park, Aquatica.
The big news coming up
in 2014 was just announced
at yesterday’s IPW press
conference. For decades,
SeaWorld has surprised and
amazed our guests with unique
entertainment, thrilling rides
and up-close encounters with
amazing sea life. Now during
SeaWorld’s 50th Celebration,
we are thrilled to offer a whole
new “Sea of Surprises.” All three
SeaWorld parks will be sharing
the fun and delight throughout
the 18-month celebration with
uniquely SeaWorld moments.
Starting March 21, 2014, we
invite guests to join us as we
celebrate with new interactive
experiences, new shows and
daily entertainment, more
up-close animal encounters,
and a Surprise Squad treating
guests with prizes every day.
The fi rst SeaWorld in San
Diego, will even have an all-new
interactive front gate area called
“Explorer’s Reef.” The area will
immediately immerse guests in
an undersea realm.
SeaWorld also boasts some
incredible rides. Manta is one of
the highest-rated roller coasters
in the U.S. What other ride
experiences are available?
Yes, Manta has become a
fan favorite, blending up-close
animal encounters with thrilling
rides. We actually have two
Manta roller coasters now:
SeaWorld Orlando’s Manta is
a fl ying roller coaster, and San
Diego features a multi-media
double-launch coaster. Busch
Gardens Tampa’s Cheetah
Hunt® launch coaster continues
the style of animal inspiration,
inviting guests to join one of
nature’s most agile predators
in a race across the Serengeti.
In 2014, Busch Gardens will
introduce Falcon’s FuryTM, a drop
tower that stands more than 300
feet tall and pivots 90 degrees
in midair before diving straight
down like a bird of prey. Busch
Gardens Williamsburg’s newest
addition to their coaster line-up
is Verbolten®, an Autobahn-
themed launch coaster. Each
park also features kid- and
family-friendly rides like Shamu
Express® and Air Grover.
Throughout SeaWorld’s history,
you have rescued, rehabilitated
and released into the wild
thousands of animals. How
important is that element to the
SeaWorld philosophy?
That’s part of who we are as a
company, so it’s very important.
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
inspired more than 24 million
guests last year to celebrate,
connect with and care for the
natural world. Through up-close
animal encounters, educational
exhibits and innovative
entertainment, guests leave
with a heightened sensitivity
to the world around them and
an awareness of the plight of
animals in the wild.
SeaWorld Parks &
Entertainment maintains one of
the largest animal collections in
North America and is a global
leader in animal husbandry,
veterinary care, enrichment and
animal behavior. In fact, guests
at Busch Gardens Tampa closely
observe and even take part in
the animal care experience in the
new Animal Care Center. From
nutrition to treatments, X-rays
to surgeries, much of Busch
Gardens’ animal care is now
conducted in guest view in this
new state-of-the-art facility.
SeaWorld has helped animals
in need — ill, injured, orphaned,
and abandoned — for more than
four decades. More than 22,000
animals have been rescued by
the park’s animal experts.
This is the largest expansion in
your company’s history. Share
some highlights.
Yes, SeaWorld Orlando just
celebrated the grand opening
of Antarctica: Empire of the
PenguinTM, with a huge guest
response. The largest expansion
in SeaWorld’s history, the new
realm blends animal encounters
with a unique trackless ride the
whole family can enjoy. Only
SeaWorld Orlando can fully
immerse guests into the thrilling,
chilling continent at the South
Pole that few people will ever
experience. Guests also meet
a very special penguin named
PuckTM, and it’s through his eyes
that guests learn about the
challenges and beauty of this
remote and frozen land. The
highlight of the new attraction,
though, is a colony of nearly 250
penguins. Stepping off the ride,
guests fi nd themselves among
a colony of Adelie, gentoo, king
and rockhopper penguins in a
30-degree habitat fi lled with
wind, snow, rocks and chilly
water.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013 IPW Daily
Here’s to 50 years,and one big
celebration!
Introducing a Sea of SurprisesWe’re celebrating 50 years of memories with a Sea of Surprises! During our year-long celebration, you’ll experience amazing new animal encounters,incredible performers, and Shamu’s party. Come and experience our parks in a whole new way—a world of prizes and surprises awaits!
Text SEAWORLD to 30364 and tweet #SeaOfSurprises
Text SEAWORLD to 30364. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to 30364 to opt out. Text HELP for information. You will receive 2 text messages per day in response to your text during IPW. Participating carriers include: Alltel, AT&T, Boost Mobile, Nextel, Sprint, T–Mobile, U.S. Cellular, Verizon, Virgin Mobile. Privacy Policy, http://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-orlando/Privacy-Policy. Sponsor: SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc., 9205 SouthPark Center Loop, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32819. © 2013 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
Amtrak Continues Ridership GrowthAmtrak, the national rail
passenger line, continues to set
ridership records as short-haul
and long-distance trains grow
in popularity with domestic and
international travelers. “We set
another record in fi scal 2012
with more than 31 million riders
— an increase of 3.5 percent,”
said Mike Blakey, acting chief
marketing and senior director,
loyalty and CRM, Amtrak. “The
Northeast Corridor had its best
year with more than 11.4 million
passengers, up 4.8 percent. We
have had consistent, year-over-
year growth in revenue in eight
of the last nine years and are on
track to do the same this year.
There is strong support for rail
travel in the United States.”
The rail company’s IPW booth
will have eight tables and will
feature photos of trains. Nine
Amtrak representatives will be
on hand to meet with delegates.
While representatives have
prescheduled appointments, said
Blakey, delegates should feel free
to stop by the booth, especially
in the early morning hours.
Amtrak continues to improve its
product, said Blakey. The fi rst of
70 new locomotives will be going
into service this fall with the rest
available by 2016. In addition, 130
new single-level long-distance
cars have been ordered.
Free Wi-Fi via AmtrakConnect
has been upgraded to 4G service
on Acela and regional trains, and
according to Blakey, “customers
will see a dramatic improvement.”
Amtrak’s busy Northeast
Corridor is very popular with
international travelers, said
Blakey, because “it makes it easy
for them to see the great East
Coast cities — Boston, New York,
Philadelphia and Washington.
There is good frequency in those
markets and it is much faster
to go from city center to city
center.“
For international travelers with
longer vacation time, Amtrak’s
partnership with the National
Parks — Trails & Rails — has been
very popular. Travelers can ride the
Empire Builder to Glacier National
Park; the Zephyr in California
through Glenwood Canyon; the
San Joaquin to Yosemite; and
a train from Los Angeles to the
Grand Canyon; and many more
— with packages available. Park
rangers will either speak on the
trains about the parks, or material
about the parks is distributed.
The website, Amtraktoparks.
com provides information on
Trails & Rails, detailing how
Amtrak riders have access to
more than 300 parks.
The line also has other trade-
oriented websites, including
Amtrak .tour. ra i lagent .com,
the main trade site where
commissionable packages are
displayed; information for all
travel partners is available at
A m t ra ka g e n t s u p p o r t .co m .
Amtrak also continues its
partnership with Rail Europe.
“International travelers enjoy
the entire train experience —
what they can see and do,” said
Blakey. “When you buy sleeping
car accommodations, meals are
included. There is nothing more
exciting than seeing the country
by rail.”
IPW DailyWednesday, June 12, 2013
tomatoes, onions, peppers,
pickles and celery salt — all on
a poppy seed roll. Meanwhile,
visitors to the state’s section
will fi nd blues guitarists and
an Abraham Lincoln lookalike
who will answer questions and
pose for pictures. Continuing
its IPW theme of promoting
shopping, Illinois representatives
will be offering 500 shopping
vouchers worth $50 each; there
will also be fashionably dressed
mannequins and shopping bags
in which to carry materials and
gifts. “We’re excited to share
an authentic Illinois experience
with luncheon attendees — from
blues music to trying out the
famous Chicago hot dog to
taking a picture with our own
President Lincoln lookalike,” said
Jen Hoelzle, deputy director,
Illinois Offi ce of Tourism. “And,
courtesy of some of our world-
class shopping destinations,
attendees will also receive gift
cards and other giveaways for
their shopping pleasure during
IPW 2014.“
Travel Oregon: This Pacifi c
Northwest state will offer
tastings of two fl avorful
beverages: pinot noir wines
and beers from microbreweries,
according to Teresa O’Neill,
vice president of global sales,
Travel Oregon. “The theme is
Oregon Bounty because there
is a buzz about the state’s
culinary appeal,” said O’Neill.
Oregon’s entree on the buffet
will be Oregon summer berries
cobbler with vanilla cinnamon
whip. A social media contest
will be held on Twitter — with
participants voting on which
is better — Oregon wine or
Oregon beer. A winner chosen
at random will win a trip of their
choosing to either wine country
or the Ales Trail. There will be
representatives from the Oregon
Wine Board and the Oregon
Brewers Guild at the lunch, as
well as about 20 representatives
dressed in appropriate
costumes. “We’re very excited,”
said O’Neill. ”As a small
destination, having this multi-
sponsor lunch gives us a chance
to show off to delegates.”
Texas Tourism: Beer will also
be on the menu for Texas,
according to Brad Smyth,
tourism director, Texas Tourism.
Shiner Beer, a historic legend
in the state, will be served at
the lunch, as well as Texas
barbeque brisket. The state is
also bringing entertainment that
refl ects its Western heritage,
including a trick roper. Visitors
will be able to have their photos
taken in front of iconic Texas
destinations and can enter to be
eligible to win a trip to the Lone
Star State.
Visit California: Not
surprisingly, salad will be this
state’s healthy contribution to
the Taste of America buffet,
with organic spring mix,
artichokes, lettuce, walnuts,
raisins, mushrooms and
strawberries. According to
Leona Reed, senior director
of international marketing,
Visit California, the state will
be showcasing all of its key
elements: luxury, wine, beaches,
Hollywood and cuisine. “We’re
hoping that visitors will be
able to see some famous faces
in our area.” said Reed. “We
defi nitely promise excellent
photo opportunities.” There will
be a wine bar with an education
on California wines. “We’re
approaching the whole display
as though it were a farmers’
market, with everything fresh,”
said Reed. “We will be giving
out bottles of olive oil, as well
as special prizes and giveaways.
We will ask visitors to post their
photos on social media, and if
they do, they will be entered
into a drawing for a luxury trip
to California.”
Visit Anchorage (DMO for
Anchorage, Alaska): Alaskan
seafood (king crab mac ‘n
cheese) will be on the menu at
Taste of America, according to
David Kasser, vice president-
tourism development and sales
for Visit Anchorage. Traditional
four-cheese mac ‘n cheese will
also be available. Champion
athletes will perform native
games and demonstrations of
native drumming and dance.
Visit Anchorage critters (or
humans in furry costume) will
be there including Seymour the
Moose. “We’re hoping to serve a
drink called the Moose Smooch,”
said Kasser, “which includes
Baileys Irish Cream and Kahlua.”
Foam moose antlers will be
given out, and delegates can
take photos wearing them for
distribution on social media.
SeaWorld Parks &
Entertainment: SeaWorld has
some special news to share with
IPW attendees, and everyone is
invited to celebrate! Delegates
will encounter a surprise too big
to be found on land, and there
will be one-of-a-kind animal
encounters, entertainment and
sweet treats (including Shamu
cookies) to enjoy. And, though it’s
still a secret, it is promised that
the SeaWorld Surprise Squad will
be making a big splash.
12 I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
Taste, See, Experience America continued from page 1
Cre
dit
: ©
Ad
am
Ale
xan
der
Ph
oto
gra
ph
y
From our new look and improved amenities to our genuine service, we’re refreshing all our hotels around the world to the same high standard: yours. That’s why we designed everything to help you feel more comfortable. Because we believe you’re at your best when you can truly be yourself. At Holiday Inn you always can.
For reservations, please use our access code: HI.
Stop by the IHG Booth (#364) to learn more!
Stay You.® is a trademark of Six Continents Hotels, Inc. ©2013 InterContinental Hotels Group. All Rights Reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and/or operated.
holidayinn.com
13PW0612.indd 13 6/3/13 12:18 PM
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
IPW Daily
14
Four unique dining experiences your groups will love. With locations around the country, your booking experience can be hassle free!
Over 100 locations nationwide including: Anaheim, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Orlando, Washington DC and many others!
Call 877.609.7526 or visit earlenterprise.com/groupeventsFOR MORE INFO
WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR
EVERYONE!
Buca di Beppo and Planet Hollywood are now open in New York!
Chicago Gears Up for IPW 2014BY HARVEY CHIPKIN
Chicago is going international in
a big way. The host city for IPW
2014 has opened 10 offi ces on four
continents to work with local travel
trade to spotlight Chicago for
international travelers, according
to Cathy Domanico, vice president
of tourism sales at Choose Chicago.
Chicago will have a signifi cant
presence at IPW 2013, including:
•OLargest booth presence ever
for Chicago;
•ONine Chicago partners in a
Chicago-branded aisle; and
•OSponsorships such as numerous
banners at the convention center,
22 internet kiosks and a full-page
ad in the offi cial IPW program.
Since the formation in 2012 of
Choose Chicago, the offi cial sales
and marketing organization for the
city and a member of U.S. Travel
Association’s Chairman’s Circle,
international travel has become
a critical focus. “Chicago is now
tenth among most-visited cities by
international visitors in the U.S.,”
said Domanico, “and we think it
should be in the top fi ve because
of all we have to offer. We have
two international airports and
tremendous airlift, and we are a
cultural mecca.”
“We have world-class
architecture, some of the world’s
greatest chefs and spectacular
museums and shopping,” said
Domanico. “What is surprising to
many visitors is that we have 28
miles of lakefront and 19 beaches;
you can take a short walk from a
great shopping street to the beach.”
While it’s easy for a visitor to
spend a week in Chicago, the city
is frequently combined with other
destinations to make for attractive
tour programs. “We do a lot of
Chicago and Yellowstone National
Park tours,” said Domanico. “Also,
Route 66 starts in Chicago, and
some people love to motorcycle
down that legendary highway.
We recommend that international
travelers should stay in the city for
at least three or four nights.”
International travelers to Chicago
can look forward to: the tallest
building in the U.S., the restaurant
that has been acclaimed by many
as the best in the U.S., Alinea, and
more than 200 theaters with high-
quality productions.
Since IPW was last in Chicago in
1998, the following attractions and
icons have emerged:
•OMillennium Park, with
its astonishing collection
of public art;
•OModern wing of the
Art Institute of Chicago;
•OThe LEDGE at
Skydeck Chicago, 99
stories up and offering
views of four states ; and
•OMany new fi ve-star
hotels.
“The momentum is
there. We are positioning
ourselves as a new
product for clients who
have been to the U.S.
before and are now
looking for something
different.”
Domanico promises
next year’s Chicago IPW,
“will be the best in years.
It will be the payoff for
our investments in the
international market in
recent years.”
The city is preparing
to welcome international
visitors by having
host city committees
create unique Chicago
experiences, and the
hospitality industry is fully
engaged and prepared
to showcase Chicago as
a global destination and
gateway to the U.S.
www.TheTourOperator.com is the only website where travel professionals and tour designers can copy and paste text and photos for itineraries written by local destination experts throughout North America—guilt free.
Plagiarize Without Guilt.
Step 1: Open a Word document
Step 2: Open an itinerary from the home page
Step 3: Look both ways and over your shoulder
Step 4: Copy and paste text onto your word document
Step 5: Repeat as often as necessary
Here’s How To Plagiarize From Us.
Only on www.TheTourOperator.com
15PW0612.indd 15 6/3/13 12:20 PM
Wednesday, June 12, 2013 IPW Daily
AGRITOURSILLINOIS
BOOTH 837 AGRITOURSILLINOIS.COM
EDUCATE & INSPIRE WITH AGRITOURS ILLINOIS
PROFESSIONAL AGRICULTURAL TOURS THROUGH CHICAGO, CHAMPAIGN COUNTY AND THE QUAD CITIES
AVAILABLE IN 10 LANGUAGES
Harry Potter World is Expanding is unique because it brings two
new hotel categories to Universal
Orlando, opening up new
markets for us,” said Quinn, who
added that they have already
begun taking reservations for
the family suites for arrivals
March 31, 2014 and beyond and
for the value/standard rooms for
arrivals after July 1, 2014. Guests
will be entitled to early park
admission and will be in close
proximity to the park entrances.
The hotel will not, however,
offer complimentary Universal
Express Unlimited Access, a perk
awarded to guests staying at
the resort’s other three on-site
properties.
Quinn said this new product
was the result of strong demand
from the family market for more
space. Each of the 900 suites will
be capable of sleeping six and
will include kitchen areas. What’s
more, he noted that the standard
rooms (900 also) provide more
value for the economy-minded
consumer. “There are people
looking for special price points,
and this hotel helps us offer that,”
said Quinn. Rates for standard
rooms will start at $119 per night,
while family suites will start at
$174 per night. Some amenities
include a bowling alley, a lazy
river and two main pools.
In more current developments,
the resort company is eager
to announce the launch of its
“Transformers: The Ride – 3D”
on June 20, along with plans to
expand upon its Harry Potter
world in both parks with the
addition of “Diagon Alley,” an
extension of the Harry Potter
experience that will include
shops, a restaurant and a
marquee attraction based on
the fi ction and fi lm-inspired
Gringotts Bank.
In good news for the
continued from page 8
continued on page 18
©2013 Hard Rock International (USA), Inc. All rights reserved.
/ pier 39 / beach & embarcadero / +1-415-956-2013/HRCSANFRANCISCO @HRCSANFRANCISCO
san francisco
rock with us at booth #782hardrock.com
17PW0612.indd 17 6/3/13 12:22 PM
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
18 I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
IPW Daily
REGULAR REGISTRATION
DEADLINE JUNE 21,
2013
ENTER THE 2013 MAGELLAN AWARDS!
Travel Weekly is proud to present the premier industry-wide recognition program, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards. From design to marketing to service, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honors the best in travel and salutes the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.
Magellan Award Winners will be highlighted in a special issue of Travel Weekly and will receive a custom produced statu-ette made by the same company that produces the Oscar and Emmy awards.
ENTER NOW AT TRAVELWEEKLYAWARDS.COM
MEET SOME
OF OUR JUDGES
BRUCE BECKHAMTourism Cares
PETER GREENBERGCBS News Travel Editor
JOHNNY JETTTravel Blogger
MARC MANCINIMarc Mancini Seminars & Consulting
Universal Revampsinternational partners of Universal
Studios Hollywood, operators
now have the ability to fully ticket
their clients at their desk through
a new technology platform
previously only available to USH’s
domestic cohorts. In line with this
enhancement — which will save
visitors from jumping from one
line to another using vouchers
upon their arrival at the
park — USH is promoting
its newly revamped
“VIP Experience.” This
non-traditional product
allows guests to explore
“off-limit” areas that
include sound stages,
prop warehouses and
costume departments.
Visitors will now have
access to additional
private locations and can
board new trolleys that
will escort them through
the back lot journey, in
addition to partaking
in a gourmet lunch in a
private reserve area.
While this VIP option
has been available for
some time now, Thomas
See, vice president of
sales, Universal Studios
Hollywood, said the
company has “paid more
attention to upgrading
the details that surround
the experience,” and he
is hoping wholesalers
and travel partners will
encourage their clients to
book ahead, as it tends to
sell out on high-volume
traffi c days. “We’re trying
to fi ght the drawback of
waiting in lines on hot
summer days,” said See.
“Now wholesalers can
book these products
online in a hassle-free
experience that will allow
their clients to walk right
through the gates.”
Universal Studios
Hollywood and Universal
Orlando Resort are
eager to connect with
their travel partners at
IPW, both citing positive
growth in the past year
from the international
market. With a plethora
of new travel products on
the line, each is hoping to
solidify new relationships
and build on their existing
ones.
.
continued from page 16
19PW0612.indd 19 6/3/13 12:24 PM
STRENGTHENING AND CREATING
NEW RELATIONSHIPS...
THAT’S THE
#TRAVELEFFECT Find out more at Traveleffect.com
20PW0612.indd 20 6/3/13 12:25 PM
Wednesday, June 12, 2013IPW Daily
I P W D A I L YT R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L 21
Simon Expands Shopping OptionsBY MARK CHESNUT
With a new website, an array
of renovations and a unifi ed
exhibit at IPW that brings
together its various brands,
Simon — the world’s largest
developer of shopping centers
— is uniquely positioned to
appeal to international visitors
in the United States, according
to company representatives
exhibiting at IPW 2013.
Simon operates 102 retail
and entertainment centers that
are marketed as destination
properties, including Premium
Outlets, The Mills and Simon
Malls. Each of the three
brands has its own appeal to
international travelers, according
to Jolie R. Cina, director of
marketing for Premium Outlets
and Simon Property Group.
Cina noted recent openings
and planned upgrades for the
Premium Outlets division. “There
is a lot of growth going on in
the Premium Outlets platform
that we’re really excited about,”
she said, citing the recent
opening of Phoenix Premium
Outlets in Chandler, Arizona,
upcoming openings in St. Louis
and Toronto, and upgrades and
expansion at facilities in Palm
Springs, Las Vegas and New
York State.
With its individual brands
offering different retail
experiences, Simon offers
distinct advantages for
international suppliers,
according to Stephanie Toor,
corporate director of tourism for
The Mills. “Working with Simon
shopping destinations, no matter
what the client wants, they can
get it with one stop,” she said,
“so they’re not backed into a
corner to only send clients to
high-end or to outlets.”
Simon Malls has highlighted
specifi c facilities as ideal for
international visitors, according
to Lyndsay Rossman, director
of marketing and business
development. “For Simon Malls,
we’ve designated 25 shopping
centers as tourism properties,
across the country in major
markets,” she explained. “For us,
one of the differentials is that we
offer brand names, from Target
to Tiffany. We also have unique
dining experiences.”
To help travelers make
the most of their shopping
experiences, the company has
unveiled a new website — www.
simon.com/travel — focused on
the destination mall properties.
“It makes everything very easy,”
said Cina, noting that the site
offers information for group
bookings, “shop and stay”
packages and other amenities.
1 2
4 1. Planet Hollywood International, Inc. was well represented by Matt Luckett, Roxanna Torrens, John Niihara and Gretchen Heppler.
2. Wynn Las Vegas representatives Kidist Grznar, Danielle Ashurst, Price Karr and Susan Salazar were eager to get down to business on the fl oor Tuesday.
3. Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, announced at a press conference on Tuesday morning that IPW 2013 is a resounding success, noting that more than 6,000 attendees convened in Las Vegas.
4. Delegates stopped by to chat at Visit Anchorage Alaska’s colorful display on the Marketplace fl oor.
3
IPW DailyWednesday, June 12, 2013
22 I P W D A I L Y T R A V E L W E E K L Y / U . S . T R A V E L
Building Networks, Growing Business
1. The King of Pop’s lookalike poses with Mito Qi from Visit Orlando on Tuesday during IPW.
2. Representatives from Universal Orlando Resort are excited to share news of the rollout of their new Transformers The Ride - 3D.
3. On the Marketplace fl oor, BASE Entertainment representatives talked about the many exciting shows available in Las Vegas.
4. The Las Vegas Convention Center played host to more than 6,000 delegates from 70 countries who conducted travel business at IPW 2013.
5. The Media Marketplace Travel Writer Awards, sponsored by CityPASS, honor excellence in travel journalism. Pictured are Roger Dow of U.S. Travel Association, Mike Morey of CityPASS, writers Janice Strong from Canada, Lieven Mathys from Belgium, Chris Coplans from England, Elzbieta Pawelek from Poland, as well as Chris Thompson of Brand USA and Mike Gallagher of CityPASS.
6 The new Partner Marketing Pavilion was buzzing with activity on Monday as marketers and technology companies shared insight about new platforms.
54
2 3
6
1
What you hear is true. To experience all the sounds, excitement and drama of the Formula One United StatesGrand Prix, there is no destination but the Live Music Capital of the World®.
VISIT US AT BOOTH #1937
AustinTexas.org
23PW0612.indd 23 6/3/13 12:26 PM
Visit us at
Booth # 229
New Orleans is the perfect blend of Old and New! From the Creole dishes to the soulful rhythms, New Orleans off ers a one-of-a-kind experience. Visit us at Booth #229 to meet our staff and discover what makes her the true Queen of the South.
24PW0612.indd 24 6/3/13 12:27 PM