ASTA Global Convention 2015

Register online and receive 10% off use discount code:

Success

You are cordially invited to The Travel Event of the YearNo travel professional can afford to miss!

Register today at www.ASTAGlobalConvention.org

CAPITOL-IZING ON SUCCESS! AUG 29 - SEPT 1, 2015 WASHINGTON DC

ASTA GLOBAL CONVENTION

2015

ASTA Global Convention’s diverse education program guarantees

to deliver the fuel that drives success

If you plan on WINNING, SUCCEEDING and STAYING RELEVANT, you have to pay attention to the ever-changing business environment. We’ve gathered some of the industry’s most important leaders to help us decide fact from fiction.

From hard-hitting business sessions to top tier sales training, ASTA’s Global Convention will provide insight on how you can protect your business and shape the changing world around you.

I look forward to personally welcoming you to Washington DC.

Zane Kerby ASTA, President & CEO Register online and receive 10% off

use discount code: Success

Diamond Sponsor

Show Sponsors

www.ASTAGlobalConvention.org Aug 29 - Sept 1 Washington DC2

SPEAKERS AND PANELISTS

Adam Stewart, CEO, Sandals Resorts International

Alex Sharpe, President & CEO, Signature Travel Network

Andrea McCarren, Journalist, WUSA-TV

Barbara Helzlsouer, Director, Sabre Travel Network

Beth Jenkins, Leisure Consultant, McCabe World Travel

Bethany Anderson - Walter, Vice President of Sales & Strategy Avoya

Bob Somers, Vice President of Global Sales, Delta Air Lines

Brad Anderson, Co President, Avoya

Bradford Jones, Director, TMC Americas, Expedia

Brenda Sprague, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Butch Stewart, Founder, Sandals Resorts International

Carolyne Njoroge, Secretary, ASTA Kenya Chapter

Chris Dane, President, Hickory Global Partners

Dave Hilfman, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales, United Airlines

Derek DeCross, Vice President of Global Sales, American Airlines

Eben Peck, Senior Vice President of Government, Industry and Consumer Affairs, ASTA

Ertugrul Karaoglu, International Chapter President’s Council (ICPC) Chair, ASTA

Georganne Bender, Consultant, Kizer & Bender

Jay Ellenby, President, Safe Harbors Business Travel Group

Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, Co-President and Co-Owner, Valerie Wilson Travel Inc.

Jim Augerinos, President, Perfect Honeymoons and Holiday Travel

Johnathan Mountford, Managing Director, MADE

John Werner, President & CEO, MAST Vacation Partners, Inc.

Julie Heizer, Deputy Director, Industry Relations, National Travel & Tourism Office, U.S. Department of Commerce and Liaison to Brand USA

Katelyn O’Shaughnessy, CEO & Founder, TripScope

Kathy Sudeikis, CTC, Acendas.com (former ASTA President & Chair)

Kevin Mitchell, Chairman, Business Travel Coalition

Lee Thomas, President, Altour

Lisa Buckner, President & COO, Direct Travel

Marc Casto, President & COO, Casto Travel Inc.

Marilyn Bell Zelaya, Chair, U.S. Chapter President’s Council (CPC), ASTA

Mark Chesnut, Travel Trade Journalist

Mark Meader, Vice President of Industry Affairs, ASTA

Michael Boult, VP, Business Travel Center of Excellence, Travel Leaders

Michael Lyons, Consultant, Lyons Pride Enterprises

Mike Premo, President & CEO, ARC

Paul Ruden, Executive Vice President of Legal and Industry Affairs, ASTA

Seth Perelman, Founder, Automated Travel Systems

Rich Kizer, Consultant, Kizer & Bender

Roger Block, President, Travel Leaders Franchise Group and ASTA Chair

Roi Ewell, Vice President Industry Affairs & Corporate Responsibility, SeaWorld

Rozalina Nikolova, General Manager, Mercury Bulgaria

Sasha Strauss, innovative Ted Talk veteran

Seth Perelman, CEO, BookingBuilder

Scott Gillespie, Managing Partner, tClara

Shelly R. Younger, Manager, Settlement Services, ARC

Stephen Thomas-Schulere, Senior Vice President Strategic Solutions, Balboa Travel

Steve Lincoln, President, Lincoln Travel

Valerie Wilson, Chairman & CEO, Valerie Wilson Travel Inc.

Zane Kerby, President & CEO, ASTA

... to be among professionals who share the same passion for this industry

www.ASTAGlobalConvention.org Aug 29 - Sept 1 Washington DC 3


Experience DC. Show your AGC 2015 badge and enjoy special VIP treatment and exclusive discounts at hundreds of participating world-class restaurants, attractions and performing arts venues.

PreShow Activities F R I DAY, A U G U S T 2 8

9:00am - 5:00pm ASTA Chapter President Meeting - Private Meeting

7:00pm Washington Nationals Baseball GameComplimentary for International and YPS AGC attendees; all other tickets will cost $21- $42

Take in a baseball game as the Washington Nationals take on the Florida Marlins. Relax in Nats Stadium while enjoying famous local eateries such as Ben’s Chili Bowl and the Shake Shack.

Please Note: Transportation to and from Nats Stadium is on your own. The Park is a short walk from the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro Station. From hotel, take the Metro Red Line from Woodley Park and transfer at Gallery Place-Chinatown and then take the Green Line getting off at the Navy Yard-Ballpark Station. The park also is approximately a $25 cab ride from the Omni Shoreham hotel.

7:00pm - 10:00pm Marine Corps Evening ParadeComplimentary/Location: 8th and I St. Marine Corps Barracks

ASTA has a limited number of seats reserved. You may see if we have seats left by calling 703.739.6888. Anyone may go and stand in line without a reservation, but entrance is not guaranteed. This is an outdoor event at the oldest continually operated Marine Corps Barracks.

The Evening Parade, held every Friday evening during the summer, features “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, “The Commandant’s Own” The United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, the Marine Corps Color Guard, and the highlight, the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon.

Please Note: Transportation to and from the Marine Barracks is on your own. The barracks are about a 7 block walk from the Eastern Market Metro Station. Take the Red Line from Woodley Park-Zoo to Metro Center and transfer to the Orange or Blue lines. Get off at Eastern Market. Or, you can take an approximately $25 cab ride from the hotel.

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The ASTA Global Convention will open your mind to new ideas and resources and allow you to Capitol-ize

on your success.


Convention Schedule S AT U R D AY, A U G U S T 2 9

8:00am - 5:00pm Conference Registration Desk OpenArrive and collect your conference badge and supporting materials

9:00am - 12:30pm Global Travel Exchange @ AGC (GTE)Join domestic and international travel professionals at this premier education and networking event. The Global Travel Exchange @ AGC (GTE) will OPEN THE DOOR between international companies and U.S.- based travel companies to start a profitable business relationship.

A tour of the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center will be available to all pre-registered attendees.

A G E N D A :

Welcome

Zane Kerby, President & CEO, ASTA

Ertugrul Karaoglu, International Chapter President’s Council (ICPC) Chair, ASTA

Marilyn Bell Zelaya, U.S. Chapter President’s Council (CPC) Chair, ASTA

Remarks from Our Sponsor: Enterprise

Introduction of All Attendees

Numbers Matter: The Importance of Travel and Tourism to the Global Economy

Speaker: Julie Heizer, Deputy Director, Industry Relations, National Travel & Tourism Office, U.S. Department of Commerce and Liaison to Brand USA for Department of Commerce

One of the U.S. government’s top tourism experts will reveal information collected by the U.S. Commerce Department on the value of tourism. She also will help you understand the travel patterns of U.S. consumers who travel overseas and international consumers who travel to the U.S.

Pick Me Pick Me!: How U.S. Agents Choose Partners, and U.S. Consumers Choose Destinations: Enticements and Barriers to Travel Panel Discussion with Q&A

ASTA members reported over 100 destinations as being “hot spots” in 2015, but the locations tend to cluster in certain areas. Learn more about the top international locations U.S. agents are selling.

Did you know that 62% of U.S. travel agents select an international company based on a face-to-face meeting? Learn how U.S. agents choose international partners.

Moderated by: Kathy Sudeikis, CTC, Acendas.com (former ASTA President & Chair)

Panelists: Ertugrul Karaoglu - ICPC Chair ASTA; Johnathan Mountford - Managing Director, MADE; Carolyne Njoroge - Secretary, ASTA Kenya Chapter and Rozalina Nikolova - General Manager, Mercury, Bulgaria

Sponsored By:


State Department Presentation on Passport, Visa Issues

Speaker: Brenda Sprague, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Final Remarks

Speaker: Marilyn Bell Zelaya, Chair, U.S. Chapter President’s Council (CPC), ASTA

9:00am - 5:00pm Global Entry AppointmentsDetails will be available soon.

1:00pm - 2:00pm Picnic LunchGlobal Travel Exchange @ AGC attendees will enjoy a picnic networking lunch at Omni Shoreham Hotel.

2:30pm - 6:00pm Capitol Visitors Center TourGlobal Travel Exchange @ AGC attendees will have a tour of the U.S. Capitol. The U.S. Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and the House of Representatives have met here for more than two centuries.

Join us for a special tour of the Capitol Building. Group transportation will be provided. Pre-registration required.

6:30pm - 10:00pm Embassy Visits AGC delegates may select one of several embassies to visit. This is an exciting chance to see inside some of the world’s loveliest embassies, sample their cuisine, learn about their country and network with their tourism and embassy staff. Registration for this event will open two weeks prior to AGC.

7:00pm - 10:00pm ASTA Board Of Directors Dinner The Fairfax Hotel. Private Event

9:00pm - 11:00pm Young Professionals Society Networking NightAll YPS members (or those under 40 who want to join YPS) are welcome to attend a combination ghost tour/pub crawl just for you!

Buses will depart the Omni Shoreham at 9pm for the event in Old Town Alexandria, VA. Pre-registration required.

Sponsored By:

YPS


S U N D AY, A U G U S T 3 0

7:30am - 5:00pm Conference Registration Desk Open

8:30am- 12:30pm Experience DC Tours Actual times vary

AGC attendees can choose from one of five tours that highlight different aspects of Washington, DC including the Monuments, the Smithsonian Museums and Embassy Row. The tours will be given from a travel agent’s point of view to enhance your knowledge of DC as a tourist destination.

Newseum/National Archives Museum Tour

No other Washington, DC, attraction makes history come alive like the Newseum. See how the media affects our shared experience of important moments. Get up close and personal with historic artifacts. Go undercover and behind the scenes in the multimedia exhibits and 4-D theater. Afterward, walk the few blocks to the National Archives Museum and take a peek at the first documents that gave American history life.

Ford’s Theatre/International Spy Museum Tour

Get a taste of history and espionage as you explore two incredible sites in downtown Washington, DC. A professional guide will escort you as you begin your journey back to 1865 at Ford’s Theatre, the place of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Explore the theatre balcony, Petersen House and Center for Education and Leadership on your own. Next, visit the International Spy Museum, the world’s only museum dedicated to espionage. Find the connections between the Civil War and the spy game as you work your way through history before facing the James Bond villains in an interactive exhibit.

Embassy Row/Anderson House Tour

Take a bus tour through the gorgeous and renowned Embassy Row. Learn the history of the families that once owned the mansions. The morning ends with a tour through the prestigious Anderson House. This National Historic Landmark is a DC hidden gem and serves as the museum and headquarters for the Society of the Cincinnati, founded in 1783 by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution.

Washington, DC Gardens – Tudor Place and Hillwood

The morning begins with a stroll through the Tudor Place Historic Home and Garden, a National Historic Landmark built by a granddaughter of Martha Washington. With its 5.5 open acres, Tudor Place remains one of America’s last intact urban estates from the Federal Period. Only a short distance away, visit Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens. Marjorie Merriweather

Experience DC tours are $25pp and can be reserved during registration.

Spots are limited and on a first-come first-served basis. Ground

transportation provided.

Sponsored By:


Post bought Hillwood in 1955. Her estate endowed the country with the most comprehensive collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia. Enjoy the 25 acres of serene landscaped gardens and natural woodlands.

Monuments Bike Tour

This tour covers the monuments and memorials on the National Mall and Potomac Tidal Basin. See the Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, the new Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, and more. This tour also gives you the chance to walk around and explore the memorials in depth. There is a lot to see, and this tour includes a trained guide.

8:30am -12:00pm NACTA at National HarborJoin Ann van Leeuwen, President of NACTA, Bob Duglin, Vice President of Sales and Industry Relations and fellow members of the National Association of Career Travel Agents during our exclusive NACTA outing at ASTA’s Global Convention at National Harbor on Sunday, August 30th.

We will travel from Washington DC via Potomac Riverboat passing most of the nation’s most revered monuments which we will see from the water. Upon arrival at National Harbor, south of Washington, you’ll have the opportunity to visit and learn about the many hotels, attractions and shops available to your clients.

The highlight of the trip will be a ride on the Capital Wheel. You’ll feel like you’re sitting on top of the world when you experience National Harbor’s most iconic attraction. As you soar 180 feet above the Potomac River waterfront, you will marvel at the incomparable views. Sights visible include the White House and Capitol, the National Mall, Arlington Cemetery, City of Alexandria, Prince George’s County and the lush parklands throughout the DC-Maryland-Virginia region.

Open to all agents registered for ASTA’s Global Convention.

9:00am - 5:00pm Global Entry AppointmentsAppointments are limited. See page 21 for details.


1:00pm - 4:00pm Destination Training Destination Courses (3 hours each) - These in-depth courses will offer you the opportunity to become a specialist in a specific destination.

Destination Workshops (1 1/2 hours each) - Each hour and a half destination seminar will offer you an inside look on what’s new and exciting at each specific destination.

Sessions include:

Hawaii Destination Specialists Course (3 hours)Kenya Destination Specialists Course (3 hours)Cuba Destination Workshop (1 1/2 hours)Egypt Destination Workshop (1 1/2 hours)Puerto Rico Destination Workshop (1 1/2 hours)Mexico Destination Workshop (1 1/2 hours)Sandals’ Destination Workshop (1 1/2 hours)More destinations to come

4:30pm - 6:30pm Entrepreneur Insight: Making It HappenTwo amazing entrepreneurs are excited to share with you! An award-winning travel agent turned entrepreneur; Katelyn O’Shaughnessy saw the need to change how travel agent’s deliver their services in order to stay relevant and meet the expectations of today’s travelers. At the young age of 26 she developed TripScope, an innovative technology platform that takes the human element of the offline travel agent and plugs them into online channels. Katelyn has gone on to break glass ceilings as a Female CEO, capturing Silicon Valley’s top Venture Capitalists and partnering with some of the largest travel companies in the industry.

Come listen to true ‘pearls’ of innovative wisdom from well-known entrepreneur Seth Perelman, founder of Automated Travel Systems (ATS) and then BookingBuilder Technologies. Seth will share his views on everything from inspiring creativity in children through schools to encouraging government support of small business. Seth is the recipient of the 1st Annual ASTA Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by the Gloria and Dan Bohan Foundation.

5:00pm - 6:30pm Premium Member ReceptionThe famed rooftop has been transformed W style! Rooftop reception (in air-conditioning) in the W Hotel with views of the Washington Monument.

Premium members please join us for an early evening of networking and views. Transportation will be provided. Premium Members Only

6:00pm - 7:00pm Tourism Cares Mentor Program Meet & Greet

7:00pm - 9:00pm All Delegate Welcome Reception at the Omni Shoreham HotelYou are invited to a Washington-style reception at our host hotel, the Omni Shoreham located at Calvert Street and Connecticut Avenue, the main thoroughfare of Northwest Washington.

Sponsored By:

Hosted By:


Since 1930, the luxurious Omni Shoreham Hotel has played host to presidents, world leaders and inaugural balls, making it a true Washington landmark. Today, the hotel fuses modern comforts with distinguished service, creating a truly monumental experience.

The Omni Shoreham Hotel overlooks historic Rock Creek National Park and is walking distance to the National Zoo.

8:30pm - 11:00pm Monuments by Moonlight - All Delegate Sightseeing Complimentary for all attendees

Washington D.C. becomes even more beautiful after the sun sets. Join us on this 2 1/2 -hour fully narrated moonlight tour to discover a whole new perspective on the Nation’s Capital.

Highlights include the Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Iwo Jima, Vietnam War, and Korean War Veterans Memorials plus The White House.

Throughout the tour you will be kept informed and entertained by an expert guide who knows all the sights and stories from the foundation of this great city right up to the present day.

Pick-up and drop-off at Omni Shoreham Hotel.

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M O N D AY, A U G U S T 3 1


7:15am - 8:15am Premium Member Breakfast with Airline PanelNetworking breakfast for Premium Members with the Airline Panel.

Attending the breakfast are: Dave Hilfman, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales for United Airlines, Derek DeCross, Vice President of Global Sales for American Airlines and Bob Somers, Vice President of Global Sales for Delta Air Lines

Premium Members Only

8:30am - 10:30am General Session

A G E N D A

Welcome from Zane Kerby, ASTA President & CEO

Airline Executives Panel

Hear what three senior airline sales executives have to say about the new airline-agent relationship.

Moderated by: Roger Block, President, Travel Leaders Franchise Group and ASTA Chair

Panelists: Dave Hilfman, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales for United; Derek DeCross, Vice President of Global Sales for American and Bob Somers, Vice President of Global Sales for Delta Air Lines

Extra Mile Award Presentation - Recognizing Travel Professionals and their GREAT Work

ASTA Travel Guard Service Recognition Award - Receive your pins for years of ASTA membership

1st Annual ASTA Entrepreneur of the Year Award - Sponsored by the Gloria and Dan Bohan Foundation

Keynote Address: “From Branding, with Love”

Presenter: Sasha Strauss, innovative Ted Talk veteran

Global pundits agree, this is an unprecedented era in the history of communication. When the Guttenberg press enabled the distribution of the printed bible in the 15th century, it was heralded as the most impactful communication event in history – permanently altering the structure of society.

Today, a printed book doesn’t even scratch the surface. This is the New Normal, a new time in history where organizations have a choice to make: be heard and remembered, or be silent and forgotten.

Sasha will stitch together all the factors, from global consumer psychology to technology’s place in the communication revolution. Everything will be on the table, from why “Social Media” is now discussed in the boardroom to how B2B organizations use brand strategically.

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Sponsored By:


10:45am - 12:00pm Concurrent Educational Sessions

The Future of the Consortium Relationship

Hear Consortia heavyweights Alex Sharpe of Signature, Roger Block of Travel Leaders and John Werner of MAST speak about their vision of agent and consortia relations in the future. They will be ready to answer questions such as “What changes do you see for the consortia community in the future?” and “How will the Consortia support revenue growth for agencies as suppliers expand their direct sales models?” This session will be illuminating for current consortia members and for those considering consortia membership.

Moderated by: Kevin Mitchell, Chairman, Business Travel Coalition

Panelists: Alex Sharpe, President & CEO, Signature Travel Network; Roger Block, President, Travel Leaders Franchise Group; John Werner, President & CEO, MAST Vacation Partners, Inc.

The Future of Travel Management Solutions: Understanding Travel Buyers

What are travel buyers looking for today? Over the years the delivery of travel services has changed and travel providers have had to cater to the ever-changing needs of the travel buyer.

From human resources to procurement to finance and sometimes administrative assistants- buyers expect very specific services from their travel providers.

Who are we selling to in today’s environment and what are the expectations on delivery moving into the future? Our panel will discuss how companies are requesting travel services and what is important for travelers as well as travel managers.

Moderator: Mike Boult, VP, Business Travel Center of Excellence at Travel Leaders

Panelists: Bradford Jones, Director, TMC Americas, Expedia; Marc Casto, President and COO, Casto Travel Inc.; Lee Thomas, President, Altour and Michael Lyons, Lyons Pride Enterprises

Presenting the Right Face to the Media

Veteran Washington TV reporter Andrea McCarren shares her tricks of the trade and coaches on how to talk in sound bites, how to answer questions and what not to wear on camera. She is joined by travel freelance writer and content expert Mark Chesnut who will handle the print side by helping you become a better blogger to promote yourself.

Presenters: Andrea McCarren and Mark Chesnut

Spotlight Session: Starwood

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 1,200 properties in 100 countries and employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft®, and Element®. Starwood also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., a premier provider of world-class vacation experiences through villa-style resorts and privileged access to Starwood brands.

Come learn more about how Starwood can partner with you to provide the best experience for your clients.

Sponsored By:

Sponsored By:


12:15pm - 2:45pm Tradeshow with Lunch

3:00pm - 4:15pm Concurrent Educational Sessions

What Your Customers REALLY Want: What it takes to Specialize, Personalize, and Connect with Today’s Clients

Join Rich Kizer and Georgeanne Bender as they help you discover what your clients really want. Regardless of how well you are prepared or how defined your sales plan is, if you and your agents are not plugged in, your customers won’t be either.

This unique and dynamic program will give you a plan of action on how to increase sales with current and new clients.

Presenters: Rich Kizer and Georganne Bender, Kizer & Bender

Tapping into the Lucrative Gay and Lesbian Market

There’s money to be made in niche markets, and the gay and lesbian travel market is among the most lucrative. Come and hear from those who specialize in and cater to this important travel segment, and also learn about the gay-friendly attractions in Washington, DC. A panel is being organized by John Tanzella, President, IGLTA.

Moderated by: Tanya Churchmuch, Founder, MuchPR, NYC

Panelists: Tom Alderink, Director of Leisure & LGBT Sales, Belmond; Lisa Cook, Associate Manager - DigitalContent, and Founder, HyPride, Hyatt’s business resource group for LGBT colleagues, Hyatt and Jeff Gundvaldson, Managing Director, Brand g Vacations

Generations Panel - “Rewards of Change”

This exciting session will feature first and second generation owners at top travel companies. They will discuss how the industry has changed and how their companies have adapted from the perspective of the two generations.

Moderated by: Valerie Wilson, Chairman & CEO, Valerie Wilson Travel Inc. and Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, Co-President and Co-Owner, Valerie Wilson Travel Inc.

Panelists: Butch Stewart, Founder, Sandals Resorts International; Adam Stewart, CEO, Sandals Resorts International; Brad Anderson, Co-President, Avoya Travel and Bethany Anderson-Walter, VP of Sales Strategy, Avoya Travel

Spotlight Session: UATP

UATP is the low cost payment network privately owned by the world’s airlines. A modern payment system with connectivity to over 95% of all Airline Seat Kilometers, UATP is the preferred form of payment for corporate travel in large international companies and small local companies worldwide.

UATP’s value model provides a true low-cost alternative to expensive credit card and merchant service fees while still allowing airlines to keep and build their customers’ loyalty. This value helped UATP surpass USD 13 billion in sales worldwide for 2011 in the corporate travel space and produce millions of dollars in both savings and revenue for its shareholders. Come to spotlight session and learn more about how we can lower your costs!

Sponsored By:

Sponsored by:


3:00pm - 5:15pm ASTA Premium Business MeetingPrivate business meeting for ASTA’s Premium Members.

Speakers: Mike Premo, President & CEO, ARC and Scott Gillespie, Managing Partner, tClara

Recognition: Travelport, Travel Insured and Enterprise

7:00pm - 10:00pm ASTA Advocacy Dinner 2015 THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY BLACK TIE GALA DINNER

ASTA Advocacy Dinner celebrates ASTA’s influence in shaping the policies affecting the retail travel business. It is a chance for ASTA to spotlight its role in the legislative process and for attendees to socialize and network with like-minded travel professionals.

Featuring the Barbara O’Hara Award presentation, Industry Advocacy Award presentations and uniquely Washington D.C. entertainment.

The 2015 dinner will be held at the historic Mayflower Hotel. The reception will begin at 7:00pm with dinner at 8:00pm.

Dinner tickets are additional and can be purchased during the AGC registration process. Transportation provided to and from the Omni Shoreham.

Sponsored by:

Sponsored By:


Success


T U E S DAY, S E P T E M B E R 1

8:00am - 1030am Corporate Advisory Council Meeting and BreakfastPrivate meeting for ASTA’s Corporate Advisory Council Members.


8:00am - 9:00am Tourism Cares Mentor Program Recap

9:00am - 10:15am Concurrent Educational Sessions

What Makes a $2 Million Dollar Sales Person in Leisure Travel?

Learn how to increase your gross sales from the agents that consistently sell $2,000,000 in travel products annually. This panel will talk about their strategies and tips for increasing sales.

Moderated by: Mark Murphy, President and CEO, TravAlliance Media

Panelists: Jim Augerinos, President, Perfect Honeymoons and Holiday Travel; Beth Jenkins, Leisure Consultant, McCabe World Travel and Steve Lincoln, President, Lincoln Travel

Social Media Marketing: Targeting the Millennials and Generation Z

Welcome to the age of the NEW consumer: a younger consumer who demands to be taken seriously; a consumer who knows their way around social media and is not afraid to use it to their advantage. These two “new” generations, who are as different as they are similar, are changing how we do business. You’ll meet:

Generation Z: The “Zeds” are the first 21st century generation, and although they may resemble the kids of our past, they are very different. This is a generation of little adults, marketers call it KYOG: Kids Getting Older Younger: six is the new sixteen. Zeds come from families with younger parents who want their kids to experience it all, and according to all reports, the Zeds will be the most empowered generation. Zeds left the womb knowing how to work a computer/smartphone/iPad and never looked back.

Millennials: This is the generation that used to be kids; today the youngest members are college age; their elder statesmen are raising families of their own. Before the Zeds showed up, the Millennials were said to be the most beloved and doted upon children ever to walk the face of the Earth. This has produced a generation of brand conscious, question-asking consumers who enjoy personal attention. They expect to be your most important customers.

You’ll learn strategies to help you understand their personalities, events that shaped them, things that motivate them, and most importantly, what’s required to connect with them online. You’ll learn smart ways to promote your business on social media; what to post to encourage conversation, which platform younger generations prefer, and more.

Presenters: Rich Kizer and Georganne Bender, Kizer & Bender


Understanding the “Big Picture” of Travel Insurance

Learn from other agencies as they detail how they successfully sell travel insurance and bring in commission revenue. They will share how insurance saved clients’ vacations and when they wish their clients had agreed to purchase travel insurance. Then they will detail how they get current clients to agree to purchase insurance and how they determine which policies will work best.

In the middle of the session, the agencies will be joined by insurance companies who will be ready to answer any questions about travel insurance. They will also detail how the insurance company monitors international incidents to be ready to help clients.

The session will end with insurance companies sharing some woefully unlikely claims that were filed by agencies on behalf of clients. It will be a humorous learning experience that will illuminate the best practices of filing a claim.

Spotlight Session: Scenic Cruises

Answering your call for outstanding tours with all the extras included, our passion is creating authentic travel experiences to all corners of this incredible planet. Scenic Cruises takes care of every last detail, ensuring your customers live the experience of a lifetime. Come learn more about our cruises in this energizing session.

10:30am - 12:30pm TradeshowAs an extension of the education sessions, you will be able to meet directly with exhibitors to learn where the industry is going and who will be there to service your clients.

Numerous prizes distributed at end of trade show.

12:30pm - 1:30pm Consortia Leaders LunchPrivate Luncheon

1:30pm - 2:30pm Press ConferenceASTA President and CEO Zane Kerby and Chairman Roger Block will discuss the vision for the future of ASTA, changes in the landscape of the travel industry, and the challenges facing the travel agent community. Open to all press, ASTA Board Of Directors and CPC

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:


www.astaglobalconvention.org 16-19 SEPT 2013 • MIAMI, FL

1:45pm - 3:00pm Concurrent Educational Sessions

Best Practices in Operations and Technology for Today’s Travel Management Company

How does today’s TMC operate internally?

Travel management companies over the years have had to alter how they do business in order to keep up with the changing needs of the industry.

As the industry has taken many different paths, the Travel Management Company has adapted by altering their infrastructure and embracing technology to enhance their product offering.

Our panel will discuss several topics including the current infrastructure of today’s TMC.

From agent staffing, hiring practices, GDS’s, technology tools and creative approaches being used to enhance the services that are offered to clients, they will share best practices that work for a successful operation.

Moderator: Chris Dane, President, Hickory Global Partners

Panelists: Stephen Thomas-Schulere, Senior Vice President, Strategic Solutions. Balboa Travel; Jay Ellenby, President, Safe Harbors Business Travel Group; Lisa Buckner, President and COO, Direct Travel and Barbara Helzlsouer, Director, Sabre Travel Network

Don’t Get Fined: Learn How to Meet Your Regulatory Obligations, and Hear what ASTA is Doing to Protect You, Your Customers and the Industry

Join ASTA’s Eben Peck and Mark Meader as they guide you through your current federal regulatory obligations, including the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) new hazardous materials, code-share disclosure, insecticide and advertising rules. In addition, they will also walk you through DOT’s proposed consumer rules that may have an impact on the way you offer air services to your customers. Even if you aren’t an ARC agency, this is information you need to know. Agencies of all sizes and business models have been hit with fines.

Presenters: Eben Peck, Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs, ASTA and Mark Meader, Vice President of Industry Affairs, ASTA

Taking Aim at Debit Memos

Debit Memos! Just the thought of them is enough to keep a person up at night. The reasons why debit memos are issued are as numerous as the volume. In this session, you’ll learn how a dedicated team of agents, airlines and GDSs, who make up the Debit Memo Working Group (DMWG), are bringing order to this complex accounting process, with the ultimate goal of banishing Debit Memos forever. You’ll also hear about the latest developments in chargeback debit memo reduction efforts including actions you can take to reduce debit memos from your side and how to address a debit memo effectively when you receive one.

Presenter: Shelly R. Younger, Manager, Settlement Services, ARC


Sustainability Panel

An increasing number of destinations are adopting the geotourism approach as a destination wide basis or integrating programs into current offerings, as a means toward environmental/cultural preservation and differentiation. National Geographic estimates as many as 55-65 million U.S. tourists can be classified as geotourists and geotourists spend 75% of the money spent on tourism.

While it is not probable that all customers will want a completely localized experience, through some basic research, travel agents can select suppliers whose responsible practices help to mitigate negative social impacts, such as employing local people, paying them a fair wage, using design principles that fit in with the destination’s character, and taking part in initiatives to contribute to the community. Listen to panelists like SeaWorld discuss the importance of conservation and wildlife preservation and how the agency community plays a role.

Panelist: Roi Ewell, VP Industry Affairs & Corporate Responsibility, SeaWorld

Spotlight Session: Sabre

Sabre is a technology solutions provider to the global travel and tourism industry. In 2013, Sabre processed over $100 billion of estimated travel spend and more than 1.1 trillion system messages. We serve our customers through cutting-edge technology developed in six facilities located across four continents. Come to this session to learn about increasing your productivity when using Sabre.

3:00pm - 4:30pm Closing General Session

A G E N D A

ASTA’s Past Year and Future Plans

Presenter: Zane Kerby, ASTA President & CEO

Young Professional of the Year Award Presentation

ASTA Chapter of the Year Award Presentation

Travel Journalist of the Year Award Presentation

Closing Remarks

Sponsored By:


Success


Global Entry AppointmentsHAD IT WITH AIRPORT SECURITY LINES? ACT BY AUGUST 14 TO BECOME A TRUSTED TRAVELER AT ASTA GLOBAL CONVENTION!

ASTA has arranged for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to be on-site in Washington, D.C. during the ASTA Global Convention to conduct “mobile enrollments” into CBP’s Global Entry trusted traveler program. The enrollments will take place between 9am and 5pm Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR ATTENDEES: Attendees that apply for Global Entry by August 14 and receive a conditional approval from CBP can schedule their in-person Global Entry interview with a CBP officer and become enrolled in the program at the ASTA Global Convention. This limited opportunity will save you time and money, as the normal interview process requires that you schedule an in-person interview at one of a handful of locations that may have scarce appointment times available due to the increasing popularity of the program.

So what is a Trusted Traveler? Once approved as a Global Entry trusted traveler, enrollees can use TSA’s dedicated PreCheck lanes when traveling domestically, which means shorter lines, no taking off shoes/belt, no pulling out your “3-1-1” bag and no separate laptop bin. And when flying internationally, it means you can head straight for the Global Entry kiosk and onto baggage claim – no waiting in the customs and immigration line.

So, don’t wait, as this is a first-come, first-served offer. To take advantage of this offer, read “The Fine Print” below and be the first in your agency to experience the process of becoming a trusted traveler so that you can assist your customers and train your colleagues.

Don’t just take our word for it! A recent Reuters article about Global Entry asked the question “Is it worth $100 to skip airport security lines?” The answer was a resounding “yes” in the opinion of two frequent travelers – “It’s a beautiful thing,” said one, while the other said “This is one of the best $100 I’ve spent on travel.”

According to ASTA member Heather Dolstra of Democracy Travel in Washington, DC, who enrolled in Global Entry at the ASTA Convention in Los Angeles in 2012, having mobile enrollments in New York is “reason enough to go to Convention. We did our interviews in Los Angeles…and have enjoyed Global Entry (and TSA pre-check) ever since. It was such a benefit to have a one-stop-shop at the [convention].”

THE FINE PRINTOn-site Global Entry enrollment is offered exclusively and on a limited basis to ASTA Global Convention participants that have completed the following:

• Applied for Global Entry through the on-line application by August 14 and paid the application fee ($100 for five years).

• Received a conditional approval from CBP prior to the start of the conference.

• Scheduled an interview in advance of arriving in D.C., which will be conducted at the convention (when prompted during the interview scheduling process, use interview location code “2015 ASTA”). Interviews will be conducted on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30 from 9am to 5pm.

• Have a valid passport and second form of identification (i.e. driver’s license or ID card) with you to present at the time of the interview. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must also present your permanent resident card.

If you are an ASTA member, a white paper on the PreCheck and Global Entry programs and archived video of past webinars on this topic can be found at ASTA.org. Additional details can be found on a comparison chart of the benefits of different trusted traveler programs as well as at globalentry.gov and tsa.gov.


Exhibitors

Company Booth #ABC Global Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86Apple Vacations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107ASTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBDASTA Kenya Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Advantage Rent A Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Allegiant Travel Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Allianz Global Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Amadeus North America, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Apostille Courier Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Auto Europe LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100Avoya Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Bedsonline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68Best Western International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85C&H International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66CTS Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Carnival Cruise Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Celebrity Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Costa Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15CROISIEUROPE AMERICA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Cunard Line and Princess Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Cynab Voyages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80Designer Trips Argentina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67E A HOLIDAYS LTD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Egyptian Tourist Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Embassy of Ecuador . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Exclusive Group Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Experience Morocco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98Gray Line DC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Hickory Global Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62Holland America Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network) . . . . . . . . . . . . 28INSUREANDGO, a MAPFRE company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79International Expeditions Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69Irro-Reisen Coach Charter Germany & Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81John Hancock Insurance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Korea Tourism Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Company Booth #MADE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83Malta Tourism Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Mailpound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10MedjetAssist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Messe Berlin North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Mexico Tourism Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Myanmar Tour Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41National Association of Career Travel Agents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TBDNational Background Check, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39National Harbor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104National Transaction Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75New York City Vacations Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Nevis Tourism Authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87OASIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Puerto Rico Tourism Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Reykjavik Excursions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Riu Hotels and Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54RoamRight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Royal Caribbean International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Sabre Travel Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Sandals & Beaches Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58Snaeland Travel Iceland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90Special Needs Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Scenic Cruises. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70Sea World Parks & Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Seabourn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Sixt Rent A Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60THOR, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49The Mark Travel Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82Tour Trek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Travel Guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

TravelSafe Insurance, a Division of Chester Perfetto Agency, Inc. 25

TSA Precheck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Turismo de Tenerife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Turkish Culture and Tourism Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

UATP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Vacation.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

World’s Leading Cruise Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

WOW air - BWI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

The trade show is an extension of the education sessions. Meet directly with exhibitors to learn where the industry is going and who will be there to service your clients. Exhibitors as of July 7, this list is increasing daily.



Success

PrizesPrizes will be given out at the end of each tradeshow session. To enter into the drawings drop your business card off at the bowl at the Sabre Booth (#92) during the trade show each day.

Prizes include:

Advantage Rent A Car - 7-day FREE rental! Up to a full-size car class, effective September 1 thru December 31, 2015, subject to availability at any Advantage location in the United States.

Allegiant Travel Company - Roundtrip airfare for two.

Allianz Global Assistance - Allianz branded cooler back pack.

Best Western International - 2 - $250 Travel Cards.

Carnival Cruise Lines - Tote bag and a plush travel set.

Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority - Set of Tumi Electronic Adapter & Mophie Power Station.

Made - Pair of tickets to Wicked the musical in either London or New York.

MedjetAssist - Passport holder, travel journal, screen cleaning cloths and 3-1-1 bags.

Sea World Parks & Entertainment - Goodie bag with 2 tickets to any of its parks (excluding Discovery Cove).

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide - 2 Westin Gift bags including a Westin Heavenly Waffle Robe, a Westin Heavenly Travel Blanket, a Westin White Tea room diffuser and Westin White Tea candle.

And many, many more!


Venue

OMNI SHOREHAM HOTEL2500 Calvert Street, Northwest , Washington, D.C. 20008

Rates: Single $169 | Double $179 | Triple$189 | Quad $209You will receive a booking link after you register for the Convention.

Not only is Washington, D.C. the host city of ASTA Global Convention 2015, August 29 – Sept 1, it was recently named by Lonely Planet as the top city in the world to visit in 2015. Forbes Magazine named Washington, D.C. America’s Second Coolest City. The magazine says Washington scores high because of its diverse population, large selection of bars and restaurants and abundant low-cost or free activities – from the Smithsonian museums to music concerts. Washington hosts more festivals and events than any other U.S. city.

The Omni Shoreham Hotel has been recognized as one of Washington D.C.’s most historic landmark hotels and has long been a favorite gathering place of dignitaries and world leaders.

Note* All registered AGC attendees who are also registered guests of the Omni Shoreham will

enjoy a 20% discount on all food and beverage (excluding alcohol) served in

all hotel dining facilities, including in-room dining.


GC15-026 | 7.15 | WEB

www.ASTAGlobalConvention.org800.ASKASTA or 1.800.275.2782

CAPITOL-IZING ON SUCCESS! AUG 29 - SEPT 1, 2015 WASHINGTON DC

ASTA GLOBAL CONVENTION

2015

ASTA Global Convention 2015

Documents

Transcript of ASTA Global Convention 2015