Enjoy highlights from the recent World Religious Travel Expo 2009 in Reno, Nevada (USA).
To watch the video, click on either of the following:
http://bit.ly/Expo2009Highlights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRjuKe28X8M
Dec 8, 2009
Oct 27, 2009
PASTORS, MINISTRY LEADERS & THOSE INTERESTED IN FAITH-BASED TRAVEL INVITED TO WORLD RELIGIOUS TRAVEL EXPO
PASTORS, MINISTRY LEADERS & THOSE INTERESTED IN FAITH-BASED TRAVEL REGISTER TODAY! FOR THE WORLD RELIGIOUS TRAVEL EXPO.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!
Have you continued to do the same trips year after year? Are you looking to plan new, exciting trips that will entice new members of your fellowship to travel? If so, we would love to invite you to attend the first-ever travel show for religious leaders and faith-based travelers- the World Religious Travel Expo.
Why Attend this Year?
Explore the diverse world of faith-based travel including pilgrimages, mission trips, Volunteer vacations, fellowship cruises, and more
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!
Have you continued to do the same trips year after year? Are you looking to plan new, exciting trips that will entice new members of your fellowship to travel? If so, we would love to invite you to attend the first-ever travel show for religious leaders and faith-based travelers- the World Religious Travel Expo.
Why Attend this Year?
Explore the diverse world of faith-based travel including pilgrimages, mission trips, Volunteer vacations, fellowship cruises, and more
- Discover how to build a thriving travel program/ministry
- Meet personally with tourism/travel officials from Israel, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, Cyprus,
- Greece,Turkey, Switzerland, Britain, Scotland, Korea, India, Pakistan & more
- Discuss opportunities with missionary travel companies such as MTS Travel and volunteer vacation companies such as Lifetree Adventures
- Plan trips with leading pilgrimage tour companies such as Regina Tours, Unitours, as well as overseas Christian tour companies from Palestine, Turkey, Africa, Greece, Germany, and much more
- Explore Christian and faith-based attractions such as TBN's The Holy Land Experience, and The Shrine of Christ's Passion
- Design a fellowship cruise with faith-based cruise companies such as Premier Christian Cruises
- Discuss opportunities with retreat conference centers such as Lifeway Conference Centers
- Get ready for Oberammergau with The German National Tourist Office, as well as other local German tourism officials who can help you plan and prepare for your trip to next year's renowned Passion Play
- Tickets purchased in advance are $20...plus you get an autographed copy of The Christian Travel Planner! Books are limited so please fax back the below registration today to ensure your copy.
Tickets at the door are $35 (book not included).
FAX YOUR REGISTRATION TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR BOOK! (859.226.4434)
Download your registration.
Questions or would you like to register over the phone? Contact WRTA/Expo Staff at 859.226.4203 or visit
Oct 25, 2009
ASTA’s IDE 2010: Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Holy Land
Read full story at http://www.asta.org/News/PRDetail.cfm?itemnumber=5937
Niche Session
Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land.
Moderator: Kevin J. Wright, President - World Religious Travel Association.
Panelists will include leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern Destinations.
Travel agents will discover how to develop a thriving and diverse faith-based travel program centered on the great religious itineraries stretching across these ancient and biblically-rich lands such as Turkey, Armenia, Greece, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, and much more. Attendees will return home equipped with the much-needed knowledge and strategies to immediately impact their faith-based travel program, no matter whether they are new to religious tourism or a long-term expert.
Qualified travel agents and journalists who register to attend IDE will also receive free accommodation for the four nights of the conference, April 19-22, in Istanbul. Check www.ASTA.org/expo to register for IDE and see which hotels are available. For more information or to register, go to ASTA.org/events.
ABOUT ASTA
ASTA's (American Society of Travel Agents) mission is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable, growing and a rewarding place to work, invest and do business.
Niche Session
Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land.
Moderator: Kevin J. Wright, President - World Religious Travel Association.
Panelists will include leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern Destinations.
Travel agents will discover how to develop a thriving and diverse faith-based travel program centered on the great religious itineraries stretching across these ancient and biblically-rich lands such as Turkey, Armenia, Greece, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, and much more. Attendees will return home equipped with the much-needed knowledge and strategies to immediately impact their faith-based travel program, no matter whether they are new to religious tourism or a long-term expert.
Qualified travel agents and journalists who register to attend IDE will also receive free accommodation for the four nights of the conference, April 19-22, in Istanbul. Check www.ASTA.org/expo to register for IDE and see which hotels are available. For more information or to register, go to ASTA.org/events.
ABOUT ASTA
ASTA's (American Society of Travel Agents) mission is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable, growing and a rewarding place to work, invest and do business.
Oct 13, 2009
Tourism Cares announces partnership with the World Religious Travel Association
Canton, Mass. (October 13, 2009) – Tourism Cares, the tourism industry’s premier charitable organization for preservation, conservation, restoration and education, has announced its association partnership with the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA), the leading global network for the 300 million traveler faith tourism industry.
“We are excited and privileged to name Tourism Cares as WRTA’s official philanthropy,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President. “Preserving the travel experience for future generations is imperative for all segments of the tourism industry. For this reason, WRTA looks forward to promoting and supporting Tourism Cares’ many important events, including this fall’s Tourism Rocks at the co-located NTA Convention and World Religious Travel Expo in Reno, Nevada.”
WRTA exists to serve as a networking and educational venue for religious tourism, including both trade and traveler. WRTA’s role is to also promote the faith-based travel experience around the world. The partnership with Tourism Cares provides the travel industry with another significant voice to preserving the travel experience for future generations.
“There are no travelers in the world more conscious of culture and antiquities than those who travel to discover the roots of religion. Part of Tourism Cares’ mission is to make sure these treasures are there when they arrive.”, said Bruce Beckham, Executive Director, Tourism Cares. “I am sure the WRTA members will be avid supporters of our cause.”
As part of the partnership, WRTA will be highlighting direct to its members the many ways they can get involved with the mission of Tourism Cares. This includes everything from promoting Tourism Rocks to the NTA Convention Auction to volunteering time at Tourism Cares projects and much more.
About Tourism Cares:
Tourism Cares is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity that benefits society by preserving the travel experience for future generations by awarding grants to natural, cultural and historic sites worldwide; by presenting academic and service-focused scholarships to students of hospitality and tourism; and by organizing volunteer efforts to restore tourism-related sites in need of care and rejuvenation. For additional information about Tourism Cares, please visit www.tourismcares.org.
“We are excited and privileged to name Tourism Cares as WRTA’s official philanthropy,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President. “Preserving the travel experience for future generations is imperative for all segments of the tourism industry. For this reason, WRTA looks forward to promoting and supporting Tourism Cares’ many important events, including this fall’s Tourism Rocks at the co-located NTA Convention and World Religious Travel Expo in Reno, Nevada.”
WRTA exists to serve as a networking and educational venue for religious tourism, including both trade and traveler. WRTA’s role is to also promote the faith-based travel experience around the world. The partnership with Tourism Cares provides the travel industry with another significant voice to preserving the travel experience for future generations.
“There are no travelers in the world more conscious of culture and antiquities than those who travel to discover the roots of religion. Part of Tourism Cares’ mission is to make sure these treasures are there when they arrive.”, said Bruce Beckham, Executive Director, Tourism Cares. “I am sure the WRTA members will be avid supporters of our cause.”
As part of the partnership, WRTA will be highlighting direct to its members the many ways they can get involved with the mission of Tourism Cares. This includes everything from promoting Tourism Rocks to the NTA Convention Auction to volunteering time at Tourism Cares projects and much more.
About Tourism Cares:
Tourism Cares is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity that benefits society by preserving the travel experience for future generations by awarding grants to natural, cultural and historic sites worldwide; by presenting academic and service-focused scholarships to students of hospitality and tourism; and by organizing volunteer efforts to restore tourism-related sites in need of care and rejuvenation. For additional information about Tourism Cares, please visit www.tourismcares.org.
WRTA Expo to Host Industry’s Largest-Ever Educational and Business Seminar Program on Faith Tourism
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct 7, 2009) – After hosting the industry’s first-ever, historic international gathering for the $18 billion religious travel marketplace in fall 2008, the World Religious Travel Association is expanding its vision and reach yet again in 2009. At this fall’s 2nd annual World Religious Travel Expo, WRTA will host the industry’s largest and most comprehensive educational seminar and business program ever assembled. As a result of the remarkable caliber of the event and presentations scheduled, Expo delegates can earn a maximum of 3 CEUs through The Travel Institute.
The all-star line-up of impressive speakers includes the globally-recognized religious travel expert, Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president; North America’s top faith-based marketing authority, Greg Stielstra, Faith-based Marketing and Pyromarketing author; travel industry’s leading retail expert and NACTA president, Scott Koepf; as well as government officials including Jordan Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Her Excellency Mrs. Maha Khatib, and Palestine Minister of Tourism & Antiquities, Her Excellency Dr. Khouloud Daibes.
Numerous travel industry executives and authorities have also been selected to speak including Torre Ossmo, vice president Faithful Holidays/Division of Mayflower Tours; Bob Faucett, vice president Unitours; George Vella, sales manager North America, German National Tourist Board, Jim Buddendorf, president MTS Travel; George Van der Wath, president Groups 2 Africa; Mirko Capodanno, Switzerland Tourism; Fuad Kattan, president ACA Travel & Tourism (Palestine); Michelle Clavijo-Diaz, Lifetree Adventures; Cindi Brodhecker, president Faith Travel Development and Consulting, and many more. With dozens of speakers planned for Expo 2009, the presenters represent a wide variety of backgrounds and destinations including India, Armenia, Cyprus, Africa, Germany, Switzerland, Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Canada, Mexico, the United States, and more.
“I’m like a kid in a candy store with this remarkable array of speakers,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. “The sheer wealth of knowledge and wisdom among these speakers is exactly what is needed for every Expo delegate to plan and prepare for their best year ever in 2010. It is simply a tremendous honor for WRTA to host such an extraordinary and inspiring group of speakers. This is a testament to the power and prestige of today’s faith tourism marketplace.”
The Expo 2009 General Sessions and Educational Seminars are listed as follows, each expanding upon the convention theme: Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever. For a complete listing of all educational opportunities and speakers, visit www.wrtaexpo.com/WRTA+Expo/Education/.
GENERAL SESSIONS
* Soundbites from the Global Faith Tourism Industry: What’s Happening & What’s to Come in 2010 (Speakers include leading tourism representatives)
* Faith-based Marketing: How to effectively reach, and serve, America's highest spending consumer group (Greg Stielstra, North America’s Top Authority on Faith-based Marketing)
* Five things to do to Make 2010 your Best Year Ever! (Scott Koepf, NACTA President)
* Signature Event: The Holy Land Panel Moderated by Malia Asfour, Director North America, Jordan Tourism plus leading tourism officials from Israel, Palestine, Egypt, Cyprus, and Greece
EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS
* How to build a thriving religious travel program with the right products, experiences, and quality. Moderator: Cindi Brodhecker, President, Faith Travel Development and Consulting
* Discover fascinating new trends, destinations and faith vacation experiences for the 21st century religious traveler: Faith-based cruises, missionary travel, African safaris, India, Armenia, and much more. Moderator: Darrell Burrow, Director of Sales, Premier Christian Cruises
* Make 2010 your best year ever in religious group travel: Learn about Oberammergau, Santiago de Compostela’s Holy Year, Shroud of Turin, Year of the Priest, and Much More Moderator: Bob Faucett, Vice President, Unitours
* How to effectively use Social Media and PR to build your religious clientele: Includes LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, blogging, creating your own social network, writing press releases and much more. Moderator, Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President
* PyroMarketing: Igniting “group travel planner” evangelists and keeping them for life Moderator: Greg Stielstra plus prominent group planners/leaders
"As a speaker and exhibitor for the second year, I am honored to play such an important part again this year," said Torre Ossmo, vice president and general manager for Faithful Holidays. "I want to congratulate and thank WRTA for having such a great line up for the educational conference this year. The presentations, discussion topics and information provided at the educational conference will be crucial to the attendees, especially as we’re all looking for success as we address the market challenges ahead."WRTA is currently taking registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations, travel professionals, and group planners from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Convention ‘09, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
Sep 29, 2009
Expo newest video for Travel Agents available
Our newest "Smilebox" video for Travel agents interested in possibly attending the upcoming World Religious Travel Expo is now available: http://bit.ly/WRTABuyerSlideshow
Sep 24, 2009
World Religious Travel Expo Provides Opportunity to Increase Revenues Twelve-fold and Profits Four-fold
World Religious Travel Expo Provides an Opportunity
to Increase Revenues Twelve-fold and Profits Four-fold
LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 24, 2009) – Numbers don’t lie. A landmark study finds that for every dollar invested in travel for face-to-face meetings, companies can expect an average twelve-fold increase ($12.50) in revenues and four-fold increase ($3.80) in new profits. The World Religious Travel Expo 2009 is no exception as the tradeshow presents travel providers an opportunity to dramatically increase their revenues and profits in the $18 billion faith-based travel and hospitality industry.
The study commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association and completed by global research firm Oxford Economics, shows measurable negative impacts of cutting business travel and trade show attendance from the budget:
» The average business in the U.S. would forfeit 17% of its profits in the first year by eliminating business travel
» It would take three years to recover those lost profits
“These statistics clearly demonstrate the immense value of attending tradeshows, but even more, confirm once and for all the return on investment provided to conference attendees,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. “This is all the more important in the burgeoning religious travel industry, where doing business face-to-face is simply expected in this marketplace. The World Religious Travel Expo features the premier venue for buying, selling and discovering new suppliers/product ideas in faith tourism.”
The WRTA Expo is positioned to provide delegates an even higher ROI, especially when taking into account the exceptional rates to attend the Expo, as well as the very affordable overnight hotel rates. Travel agents pay just $35 (for WRTA Members) and $85 (for non-WRTA Members) to attend the World Religious Travel Expo, which includes meal functions, tradeshow floor access, educational seminars, and entertainment events. Hotel rates at the official Expo host hotel (Atlantis Resort and Spa) in Reno, Nevada, begin at just $59 per night.
WRTA is currently taking registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to once again draw hundreds of tourism organizations, travel professionals, agents, and group planners from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Convention ‘09, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact WRTA at: 888-255-WRTA (9872) or +1-859-219-3529
to Increase Revenues Twelve-fold and Profits Four-fold
LEXINGTON, Ky. (September 24, 2009) – Numbers don’t lie. A landmark study finds that for every dollar invested in travel for face-to-face meetings, companies can expect an average twelve-fold increase ($12.50) in revenues and four-fold increase ($3.80) in new profits. The World Religious Travel Expo 2009 is no exception as the tradeshow presents travel providers an opportunity to dramatically increase their revenues and profits in the $18 billion faith-based travel and hospitality industry.
The study commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association and completed by global research firm Oxford Economics, shows measurable negative impacts of cutting business travel and trade show attendance from the budget:
» The average business in the U.S. would forfeit 17% of its profits in the first year by eliminating business travel
» It would take three years to recover those lost profits
“These statistics clearly demonstrate the immense value of attending tradeshows, but even more, confirm once and for all the return on investment provided to conference attendees,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. “This is all the more important in the burgeoning religious travel industry, where doing business face-to-face is simply expected in this marketplace. The World Religious Travel Expo features the premier venue for buying, selling and discovering new suppliers/product ideas in faith tourism.”
The WRTA Expo is positioned to provide delegates an even higher ROI, especially when taking into account the exceptional rates to attend the Expo, as well as the very affordable overnight hotel rates. Travel agents pay just $35 (for WRTA Members) and $85 (for non-WRTA Members) to attend the World Religious Travel Expo, which includes meal functions, tradeshow floor access, educational seminars, and entertainment events. Hotel rates at the official Expo host hotel (Atlantis Resort and Spa) in Reno, Nevada, begin at just $59 per night.
WRTA is currently taking registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to once again draw hundreds of tourism organizations, travel professionals, agents, and group planners from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Convention ‘09, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact WRTA at: 888-255-WRTA (9872) or +1-859-219-3529
Sep 23, 2009
Exhibitors! New Expo 2009 video released for you....
We just released our newest 1-minute video for Expo 2009 Exhibitors (either confirmed or interested).
Just click here to view and enjoy: http://bit.ly/2009ExpoExhibitors
Just click here to view and enjoy: http://bit.ly/2009ExpoExhibitors
Sep 21, 2009
New NTA Convention Panel Announced: Faith-based Marketing Revenue Secrets featuring Greg Stielstra
Faith-based Marketing Revenue Secrets: Featuring Two Industry Experts
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 10:15–11:30 a.m.
Featured Speakers:
Kevin J. Wright, president, World Religious Travel Association
Greg Stielstra, author, Faith-based Marketing and Pyromarketing
An Industry First! Join Kevin J. Wright, president of NTA strategic partner the World Religious Travel Association, and Greg Stielstra, North America’s top faith-based marketing authority, as together they lead a fascinating and remarkable discussion on how to effectively work with the $18 billion faith-based market. From pilgrimages, missions and conventions to adventure trips, leisure vacations and cruises, “religious travel and hospitality” is much broader than most people think. With two industry-leading experts at the helm, Kevin and Greg will change the way you do business forever with this new clientele and revenue opportunity.
For more info about the NTA Convention and above panel, visit http://www.ntaonline.com/Convention09/
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 10:15–11:30 a.m.
Featured Speakers:
Kevin J. Wright, president, World Religious Travel Association
Greg Stielstra, author, Faith-based Marketing and Pyromarketing
An Industry First! Join Kevin J. Wright, president of NTA strategic partner the World Religious Travel Association, and Greg Stielstra, North America’s top faith-based marketing authority, as together they lead a fascinating and remarkable discussion on how to effectively work with the $18 billion faith-based market. From pilgrimages, missions and conventions to adventure trips, leisure vacations and cruises, “religious travel and hospitality” is much broader than most people think. With two industry-leading experts at the helm, Kevin and Greg will change the way you do business forever with this new clientele and revenue opportunity.
For more info about the NTA Convention and above panel, visit http://www.ntaonline.com/Convention09/
Sep 1, 2009
Expo Buzz Newsletter, Sep. 1, 2009
Headlining Keynote Named:
Greg Stielstra
WRTA has named Greg Stielstra, the marketing director behind The Purpose Driven Life, the fastest-selling hardcover book in American history and a faith-based marketing phenomenon, as the headline speaker at this fall's celebrated event. Stielstra is also best known as the author of Faith-based Marketing: The Guide to Reaching 140 Million Christian Customers (HarperCollins, 2005) and PyroMarketing: The Four Step Strategy to Ignite Customer Evangelists and Keep Them For Life (Wiley, 2009).
Stielstra is an innovative thinker, speaker, consultant and author. An expert in word-of-mouth, faith-based, and social network marketing, he speaks regularly at Word of Mouth Marketing Association conference and numerous other events including AdTech New York and the prestigious Forbes CMO Summit. His work has been covered by The Economist, Advertising Age, Point Magazine, Business Week, Forbes, Wireless Age, Knowledge at Wharton, the Wharton Leadership Journal, and the book 9 Minds on Marketing.
We are very excited to welcome Greg to our Expo.
Greg Stielstra
WRTA has named Greg Stielstra, the marketing director behind The Purpose Driven Life, the fastest-selling hardcover book in American history and a faith-based marketing phenomenon, as the headline speaker at this fall's celebrated event. Stielstra is also best known as the author of Faith-based Marketing: The Guide to Reaching 140 Million Christian Customers (HarperCollins, 2005) and PyroMarketing: The Four Step Strategy to Ignite Customer Evangelists and Keep Them For Life (Wiley, 2009).
Stielstra is an innovative thinker, speaker, consultant and author. An expert in word-of-mouth, faith-based, and social network marketing, he speaks regularly at Word of Mouth Marketing Association conference and numerous other events including AdTech New York and the prestigious Forbes CMO Summit. His work has been covered by The Economist, Advertising Age, Point Magazine, Business Week, Forbes, Wireless Age, Knowledge at Wharton, the Wharton Leadership Journal, and the book 9 Minds on Marketing.
We are very excited to welcome Greg to our Expo.
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Can't Join Us in Reno?
Create a presence through advertising. Advertise in the Official Expo Program to ensure your brand is remembered by all expo attendees. The program features:
Expo Schedule
Exhibitor List
Educational Sessions
Attendee directory - making it a year long publication
Expo Map
But hurry...limited space is available - book by Sept. 15 to be included.
For more information about advertising, contact Kami Risk at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or 859-226-4402; or email sales@WRTAstaff.com..
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New Logo Unveiled for Expo Theme "Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever"
WRTA is thrilled to debut its logo for this fall's World Religious Travel Expo. The new logo unveiling follows Expo's recent announcement of its fall theme: Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever. As the official symbol of Expo 2009, you will see this logo in upcoming expo communications, and on the expo tradeshow floor, general sessions, educational seminars, and other event functions. The logo and theme is an ever-constant reminder to "Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever!"
Can't Join Us in Reno?
Create a presence through advertising. Advertise in the Official Expo Program to ensure your brand is remembered by all expo attendees. The program features:
Expo Schedule
Exhibitor List
Educational Sessions
Attendee directory - making it a year long publication
Expo Map
But hurry...limited space is available - book by Sept. 15 to be included.
For more information about advertising, contact Kami Risk at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or 859-226-4402; or email sales@WRTAstaff.com..
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Logo Unveiled for Expo Theme "Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever"
WRTA is thrilled to debut its logo for this fall's World Religious Travel Expo. The new logo unveiling follows Expo's recent announcement of its fall theme: Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever. As the official symbol of Expo 2009, you will see this logo in upcoming expo communications, and on the expo tradeshow floor, general sessions, educational seminars, and other event functions. The logo and theme is an ever-constant reminder to "Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever!"
Exhibitors of the Week
In each Expo Buzz, we like to show the quality of exhibitors we will have at the Expo by highlighting different companies each week. We are looking forward to meeting everyone and hope you are too!
The ACA & Tourism/Bethlehem will guide you through your quest. Whether you want to visit a country or prefer a regional tour throughout Israel, the Palestinian Autonomous Territories, Egypt or Jordan we can tailor any trip to your taste and pace. website
At CIE Tours International, quality is our focus. We insist on state-of-the-art luxury coaches; prompt and pleasant customer service; and the best hotels, visits and entertainment. website
The Shrine of Christ's Passion is an interactive half-mile winding pathway that begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsemane. You then journey through the Passion of Christ as depicted in the Stations of the Cross. website
In each Expo Buzz, we like to show the quality of exhibitors we will have at the Expo by highlighting different companies each week. We are looking forward to meeting everyone and hope you are too!
The ACA & Tourism/Bethlehem will guide you through your quest. Whether you want to visit a country or prefer a regional tour throughout Israel, the Palestinian Autonomous Territories, Egypt or Jordan we can tailor any trip to your taste and pace. website
At CIE Tours International, quality is our focus. We insist on state-of-the-art luxury coaches; prompt and pleasant customer service; and the best hotels, visits and entertainment. website
The Shrine of Christ's Passion is an interactive half-mile winding pathway that begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsemane. You then journey through the Passion of Christ as depicted in the Stations of the Cross. website
7TUR Tourism Ltd. is one of Turkey's leading Business Travel and Destination Management Companies with 28 years of experience. We emphasize creativity, cost-efficiency and commitment to our clients, providing only the best in accommodation, transportation, entertainment, seminars, tours, special events and more. website
Annett Bus Lines has become one of the most respected motorcoach companies in North America. Family Tradition is what drives our business, and our fleet of 55 motorcoaches will travel more than 3.3 million miles this year. website
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Expo 2008 Highlights Webcast Released
"Revenue Secrets from Faith Tourism Experts"
You can now experience and relive highlights of Expo 2008 in the newly released webcast entitled "Revenue Secrets from Faith Tourism Experts." In this 55-minute webinar , discover sales, marketing, PR, product, and operational insights from top authorities in the world of religious travel and hospitality.
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Expo Tip of the Week
Get the Biggest Bang for your Buck
As you know, WRTA and NTA are co-locating their conventions this year in Reno, however, did you know WRTA suppliers/wholesalers/destinations and WRTA buyers can access select NTA functions with the NTA add-on options? Build your portfolio by adding-on NTA options!
$220 NTA Add-on: For Travel Wholesalers/Tour Operators who want appointments with Tour Suppliers at NTA. Subject to NTA approval.
$545 NTA Add-on: For Wholesalers/Suppliers/Destinations who want access to NTA Convention Mall and education. Does not include appointments with NTA Tour Operators. Subject to NTA approval.
$825 NTA Add-on: For Wholesalers/Suppliers/Destinations who want to have appointments with NTA Tour Operators. Subject to NTA approval.
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Personal Note from WRTA President
Dear Faith Tourism Friends & Colleagues,
You're in for a big treat this fall at Expo. Never before has the travel industry been addressed by the top faith-based marketing authority in North America- Greg Stielstra. This is a first!
In preparation for the Expo, as well as for the benefit of your own faith-based travel program - I'd suggest purchasing a copy of Greg's newly published book Faith-based Marketing (http://www.faithbasedmarketing.com/). ). It is a tremendous resource and will greatly impact the way you serve the religious market.
Another book of Greg's to check out is Pyromarketing (http://www.pyromarketing.com/). I read this book about a year ago - and it's one of the finest business books I've ever read. It's a must.
Greg is thrilled about addressing our Expo this fall - and he very much looks forward to meeting you in person.
See you in 3 months in Reno!
Best Wishes,
Kevin J. Wright
WRTA President
P.S. If you want to catch Greg in action, watch one of his live performances.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Personal Note from WRTA President
Dear Faith Tourism Friends & Colleagues,
You're in for a big treat this fall at Expo. Never before has the travel industry been addressed by the top faith-based marketing authority in North America- Greg Stielstra. This is a first!
In preparation for the Expo, as well as for the benefit of your own faith-based travel program - I'd suggest purchasing a copy of Greg's newly published book Faith-based Marketing (http://www.faithbasedmarketing.com/). ). It is a tremendous resource and will greatly impact the way you serve the religious market.
Another book of Greg's to check out is Pyromarketing (http://www.pyromarketing.com/). I read this book about a year ago - and it's one of the finest business books I've ever read. It's a must.
Greg is thrilled about addressing our Expo this fall - and he very much looks forward to meeting you in person.
See you in 3 months in Reno!
Best Wishes,
Kevin J. Wright
WRTA President
P.S. If you want to catch Greg in action, watch one of his live performances.
Greg Stielstra, North America's Top Faith-based Marketing Expert to Headline World Religious Travel Expo
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug 31, 2009) – One of North America’s top authorities on faith-based marketing and word-of mouth marketing will address the travel industry, for the first time ever, at the World Religious Travel Expo 2009. The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) just named Greg Stielstra, the marketing director behind The Purpose Driven Life, the fastest-selling hardcover book in American history and a faith-based marketing phenomenon, as the
headline speaker at this fall’s celebrated event. Stielstra is also best known as the author of Faith-based Marketing: The Guide to Reaching 140 Million Christian Customers (HarperCollins, 2005) and PyroMarketing: The Four Step Strategy to Ignite Customer Evangelists and Keep Them For Life (Wiley, 2009).
“We hit the jackpot in landing Greg Stielstra as the Sunday luncheon keynoter,” said WRTA President Kevin J. Wright. “The most frequently asked question by every travel provider and supplier in relation to the religious market is ‘How do we effectively reach pastors and the faith-based consumer?’ Greg will share the fascinating marketing principles behind the mega-success of The Passion of the Christ movie and The Purpose Driven Life book, and how these same
principles can and should be applied by each organization in the travel industry.”
Stielstra is an innovative thinker, speaker, consultant and author. An expert in word-of-mouth, faith-based, and social network marketing, he speaks regularly at Word of Mouth Marketing Association conference and numerous other events including AdTech New York and the prestigious Forbes CMO Summit. His work has been covered by The Economist, Advertising Age, Point Magazine, Business Week, Forbes, Wireless Age, Knowledge at Wharton, the
Wharton Leadership Journal, and the book 9 Minds on Marketing.
“People of faith are the largest, most loyal, and highest spending market segment in the United States with 140 million weekly church-goers who spend $5.1 trillion annually,” said Stielstra. “To be successful, you must first understand the religious consumer power niche—and how to effectively reach them. I will help the travel industry understand who makes up the faith community, what they want, and what it takes to appeal to them. We’ll also discuss common mistakes marketers make in dealing with the faith-based market; how to serve rather than sell to them; and what works and doesn’t work when dealing with pastors and other religious leaders. Above all, I’ll provide practical guidance for creating faith-based marketing plans that work.”
With one in four Americans expressing interest in taking a faith-based trip, and religious tourism expected to double by 2012, many travel providers and destinations have recently significantly expanded their faith-based marketing efforts including Trafalgar Tours, Globus family of brands, Collette Vacations, Faithful Holidays (division of Mayflower Tours), CIE Tours, Homeric Tours, TravelBound, Ed-Ventures Worldwide Tours, Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, the Jordan Tourist Board, Switzerland Tourism, as well as many Convention and Visitor Bureaus and other suppliers including Passport Health. WRTA is currently taking registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most
important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations, travel professionals, and group planners from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Convention ‘09, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact the World Religious Travel Association at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or +1-859-219-3529 or by email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com. For more information about WRTA and the Expo, visit www.WRTAreligioustravel.com and http://www.wrtaexpo.com/ respectively.
headline speaker at this fall’s celebrated event. Stielstra is also best known as the author of Faith-based Marketing: The Guide to Reaching 140 Million Christian Customers (HarperCollins, 2005) and PyroMarketing: The Four Step Strategy to Ignite Customer Evangelists and Keep Them For Life (Wiley, 2009).
“We hit the jackpot in landing Greg Stielstra as the Sunday luncheon keynoter,” said WRTA President Kevin J. Wright. “The most frequently asked question by every travel provider and supplier in relation to the religious market is ‘How do we effectively reach pastors and the faith-based consumer?’ Greg will share the fascinating marketing principles behind the mega-success of The Passion of the Christ movie and The Purpose Driven Life book, and how these same
principles can and should be applied by each organization in the travel industry.”
Stielstra is an innovative thinker, speaker, consultant and author. An expert in word-of-mouth, faith-based, and social network marketing, he speaks regularly at Word of Mouth Marketing Association conference and numerous other events including AdTech New York and the prestigious Forbes CMO Summit. His work has been covered by The Economist, Advertising Age, Point Magazine, Business Week, Forbes, Wireless Age, Knowledge at Wharton, the
Wharton Leadership Journal, and the book 9 Minds on Marketing.
“People of faith are the largest, most loyal, and highest spending market segment in the United States with 140 million weekly church-goers who spend $5.1 trillion annually,” said Stielstra. “To be successful, you must first understand the religious consumer power niche—and how to effectively reach them. I will help the travel industry understand who makes up the faith community, what they want, and what it takes to appeal to them. We’ll also discuss common mistakes marketers make in dealing with the faith-based market; how to serve rather than sell to them; and what works and doesn’t work when dealing with pastors and other religious leaders. Above all, I’ll provide practical guidance for creating faith-based marketing plans that work.”
With one in four Americans expressing interest in taking a faith-based trip, and religious tourism expected to double by 2012, many travel providers and destinations have recently significantly expanded their faith-based marketing efforts including Trafalgar Tours, Globus family of brands, Collette Vacations, Faithful Holidays (division of Mayflower Tours), CIE Tours, Homeric Tours, TravelBound, Ed-Ventures Worldwide Tours, Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, the Jordan Tourist Board, Switzerland Tourism, as well as many Convention and Visitor Bureaus and other suppliers including Passport Health. WRTA is currently taking registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most
important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations, travel professionals, and group planners from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Convention ‘09, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact the World Religious Travel Association at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or +1-859-219-3529 or by email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com. For more information about WRTA and the Expo, visit www.WRTAreligioustravel.com and http://www.wrtaexpo.com/ respectively.
Aug 18, 2009
Expo Buzz Update
August 18, 2009
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
- Saturday Events You Don't Want to Miss
- Expo-- Did you Know?
- Expo Tip of the Week-- Choose Wisely!
- Get Noticed in the Faith-Based Market
- Exhibitors of the Week
- Be a Know-it-All at the Expo
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Get to the Expo early Saturday- So much to do!
Invitation from NTA: Saturday International Luncheon
Join us for NTA's International Luncheon, being held Saturday, Nov. 14 from 12:30-1:45 in the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. In this luncheon, you'll dine with hundreds of tourism professionals while you learn more about international destinations such as Jordan and Mexico. Each sponsoring destination will deliver a destination presentation, designed with all travel packagers in mind and be exposed to great product development ideas for your clients. We have also confirmed, Her Excellency of Jordan, will be one of the destination presenters. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about these exciting destinations while networking with your peers.
Take Advantage and Sightsee!
After NTA's International Luncheon on Saturday (2pm-6pm), experience the Reno area and choose from one of five sightseeing tours! From historic Virginia City to the brand new Reno Aces AAA Ballpark, each four-hour tour is a great way to see the southwest area of Reno. The tours are offered on a first-received, first-registered basis, so sign up now! Deadline to register is October 14, 2009.
Tours start and end at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center.
Tour #1 - Virginia City "Step back in Time"
The mining boom turned Virginia City into the most important settlement between Denver and San Francisco and the grubby prospectors were turned into instant millionaires - who built mansions, imported expensive furniture, food and fashions from Europe and the Orient, and ended up helping to finance the Civil War.
Tour #2 - Can You Believe it?
Start with Reno's newest venue-Reno Aces AAA ball park- walk through the dugouts and visit the Hall of Fame Club Suite where you get a birds eye view of the entire park and the Reno skyline! The next stop is to the National Automobile Museum, the Harrah Collection, where time, culture, beauty, history, human invention, ingenuity and frivolity merge to fascinate us in the form of cars.
Tour #3 - The Biggest Little City in the World
Explore downtown Reno, a city that started as a small river crossing but ended up as the "Biggest Little City." Before Las Vegas, Reno was a Mecca for movie stars and entertainers, beautiful architecture and famous restaurants. You will also get a glimpse of our small city as it undergoes a renaissance throughout the downtown corridor. Visit downtown spots, historic churches, bridges and hotels with us.
Tour #4 - Carson City- "A Stroll through the 1800's"
Take a walk back into the 1800's in Carson City, Nevada's capitol. Explore the Kit Carson Trail, the city's fabulous historic district. Come see all the sites, including the Governor's Mansion and the Capital Building, and hear the tales of our capital and its colorful residents!
Tour #5 - North Shore of Tahoe and Squaw Valley
Travel west with us to the beautiful North Short Lake Tahoe and see what all the fuss is about as you take in the views. Visit the Tahoe Maritime Museum, Squaw Valley (home to the 1960 Winter Olympics, and the Sierra Nevada Foothills (home to the oldest Zinfandel vines in the world). Enjoy the view - and the wine - on our tour.
Read the full descriptions of the tours
Sign up by October 14, 2009!
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Expo- Did you Know?
Expand your contacts and grow your business with the National Tour Association. As you know, WRTA and NTA are co-locating their conventions this year in Reno, however, did you know WRTA suppliers/wholesalers/destinations and WRTA buyers can access select NTA functions with the NTA add-on options?
$220 NTA Add-on: For Travel Wholesalers/Tour Operators who want appointments with Tour Suppliers at NTA. Subject to NTA approval.
$545 NTA Add-on: For Wholesalers/Suppliers/Destinations who want access to NTA Convention Mall and education. Does not include appointments with NTA Tour Operators. Subject to NTA approval.
$825 NTA Add-on: For Wholesalers/Suppliers/Destinations who want to have appointments with NTA Tour Operators. Subject to NTA approval.
About NTA
More about WRTA/NTA registration
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Expo Tip of the Week- Choose Wisely
With so many great educational breakout sessions to choose from, the decision may be tough! A great expo tip, for any educational conference, is to decide in advance which educational session you will get the most out of. Our Sunday morning educational sessions start of the conference with great topics! Which best suits your needs?
WRTA Educational Breakout Sessions
Sunday, November 15
9:15am-10:15am
Product Development for the faith market
Seminar 1 - How to build the right travel products and experiences for today's religious market
Seminar 2 - Fellowship vacations and events in North America: Tapping your backyard goldmine
Seminar 3 - Discover the top trends, destinations and opportunities in religious travel
See the full (preliminary) WRTA schedule of events and other educational session topics.
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Get Noticed in the Faith-Based Market
With Expo 2009 only 3 months away, we don't want you to miss your opportunity to stand-out in the faith based market. Here are three reasons to book exhibit space now:
Join your travel industry colleagues including ACA Travel & Tourism, CIE Tours International, Cyprus Tourism Organization, Ed-Ventures Worldwide Tours, German National Tourist Office, Globus Family of Brands, Greek National Tourism Organization, Idee Travel Services, Jordan Tourism Board, Krouse/Amsalem Travel, Leipzig Tourism and Marketing Company, Lifetree Adventures, Reno-Tahoe, Routes to Luther, The Shrine of Christ's Passion, Switzerland Tourism, Tauck World Discovery, Theatre Direct & Broadway.com/groups, Trafalgar Tours USA Inc, Trinity Broadcasting Network, Visit Britain and Visit Scotland. View the complete list of Expo 2009 Exhibitors. - New this year - exhibitors choose their own space. Booth selection has already started, so act quickly to get the best spot!
An anticipated 400 NTA tour operators will have access to the WRTA International - Tradeshow floor. This is your ticket to meeting more buyers!!
For more information about exhibiting, contact Kami Risk at WRTA.
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Exhibitors of the Week
Cyprus , an island in the Eastern Mediterranean with history that dates back 10,000 Years. A country exceptionally rich in monuments of the Byzantine period, many of them UNESCO World Heritage The arrival in Cyprus of the Apostles Paul, Barnabas and Mark in 45A.D. is one of the most important historical events to leave its mark on the island. Their visit is linked to the spread of Christianity. Come and trace the steps of Apostle Paul and Barnabas on our beautiful island. Cyprus is a year round destination with more than 360 days of sunshine.
http://www.visitcyprus.com/wps/portal
Ed-Ventures is a family owned and operated company specializing in worldwide tours with a purpose, and has been customizing tours for operators and travel agents for over 30 years. In recent years our focus has shifted to faith-based travel with a special emphasis on the Passion Play, Footsteps of Paul, the Holy Land and Egypt, and the Reformation era. We have also arranged travel and volunteer opportunities for mission groups in Central America and pilgrimages to Italy and other destinations.
www.ed-ventures.com
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Be a Know-it-All at Expo
Want some fast, fun facts about the World Religious Travel Expo and Educational Conference? Knowing as much as possible about the Expo before you get there will allow you to get the most out of it!
Official Expo website
Expo video
Discover the World of Faith Tourism video
Scott Keopf, NACTA President, named keynote speaker
Aug 17, 2009
New Webinar Released: Revenue Secrets From Faith Tourism Experts
WRTA's newest Webinar has just been released: Revenue Secrets from Faith Tourism Experts - How to Flourish in a Thriving New Market.
The Webinar also features highlights from the World Religious Travel Expo.
To view the Webinar, visit the homepage of http://www.WRTAexpo.com/
The Webinar also features highlights from the World Religious Travel Expo.
To view the Webinar, visit the homepage of http://www.WRTAexpo.com/
Aug 14, 2009
NACTA President, Scott Koepf, Keynote Speaker at World Religious Travel Expo
LEXINGTON, Ky. (August 14, 2009) – The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) has named NACTA President, Scott Koepf, as keynote speaker for the final day of the World Religious Travel Expo 2009.
“We are ecstatic about Scott Koepf serving as a keynote speaker at the World Religious Travel Expo,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. “As a motivational speaker and sales trainer with two decades-plus experience in the travel industry, Scott is the ideal candidate for sharing with delegates how to make 2010 their best year ever.”
Koepf is recognized as one of the leading authorities and representatives of travel agents in the industry. With more than 25 years in retail travel, Scott became president of the National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA) in 2008. Prior to his current position, Scott was with Sabre Holdings as general manager of the Jurni Consortium, TMA and the host Travel agency, Nexion. He opened a cruise travel agency in 1985 and in 1989 became president of Cruise Holidays International. Scott was responsible for taking the franchise company from 12 franchises to over 120. In 1991 he returned to owning an agency, which quickly became one of the top cruise selling agencies in the country.
“I am thrilled to be a keynote speaker for the WRTA Expo in Reno,” said Scott Koepf, NACTA president. “First, as a graduate of the University of Nevada in Reno, the destination will serve as a memorable homecoming. Secondly, the conference theme Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever is perfect and I will dig into how you can make that happen—even in these remarkable times. I might even slip in a few never-before-told college stories to spice things up!”
With a special partnership between WRTA and NACTA, all NACTA travel agent members are eligible for a special $35 rate to attend the World Religious Travel Expo.
The Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations and travel professionals from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association’s Convention, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, including registering for the special NACTA member travel agency rate, contact the World Religious Travel Association
“We are ecstatic about Scott Koepf serving as a keynote speaker at the World Religious Travel Expo,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. “As a motivational speaker and sales trainer with two decades-plus experience in the travel industry, Scott is the ideal candidate for sharing with delegates how to make 2010 their best year ever.”
Koepf is recognized as one of the leading authorities and representatives of travel agents in the industry. With more than 25 years in retail travel, Scott became president of the National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA) in 2008. Prior to his current position, Scott was with Sabre Holdings as general manager of the Jurni Consortium, TMA and the host Travel agency, Nexion. He opened a cruise travel agency in 1985 and in 1989 became president of Cruise Holidays International. Scott was responsible for taking the franchise company from 12 franchises to over 120. In 1991 he returned to owning an agency, which quickly became one of the top cruise selling agencies in the country.
“I am thrilled to be a keynote speaker for the WRTA Expo in Reno,” said Scott Koepf, NACTA president. “First, as a graduate of the University of Nevada in Reno, the destination will serve as a memorable homecoming. Secondly, the conference theme Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever is perfect and I will dig into how you can make that happen—even in these remarkable times. I might even slip in a few never-before-told college stories to spice things up!”
With a special partnership between WRTA and NACTA, all NACTA travel agent members are eligible for a special $35 rate to attend the World Religious Travel Expo.
The Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations and travel professionals from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association’s Convention, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, including registering for the special NACTA member travel agency rate, contact the World Religious Travel Association
Jun 25, 2009
World Religious Travel Expo Theme Announced: “Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever”
WRTA Announces Theme of Fall Expo
“Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever”
LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 25, 2009) – The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) has announced “Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever” as its official theme for this fall’s World Religious Travel Expo. The newly chosen motto will serve as the guiding principle and overall purpose of the three-day event.
“Our theme serves as an invitation to tap into the flourishing religious travel and hospitality industry,” said WRTA president, Kevin J. Wright. “We all know this is a very trying time for many companies. However, as faith tourism provides new market and revenue possibilities, the World Religious Travel Expo provides organizations with a renewed opportunity to experience their best year yet.”
Faith-based travel and hospitality has become an important new market segment for many tour operators, travel agents, destinations and suppliers in the industry. In the past year alone, the religious market has taken on even greater significance, due to its recession-proof and groups-dominated attributes. An estimated 75% of faith-based travelers prefer to travel in group settings while 80% would like to repeat their religious travel experience. Challenging times only serve to bring people of faith together in greater numbers for travel or convention purposes; providing a much needed “stimulus” to the industry.
WRTA recently opened registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations and travel professionals from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Annual Convention, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact the World Religious Travel Association at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or +1-859-219-3529 or by email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com. For more information about WRTA and the Expo, visit www.WRTAreligioustravel.com and www.WRTAexpo.com respectively.
# # #
“Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever”
LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 25, 2009) – The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) has announced “Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever” as its official theme for this fall’s World Religious Travel Expo. The newly chosen motto will serve as the guiding principle and overall purpose of the three-day event.
“Our theme serves as an invitation to tap into the flourishing religious travel and hospitality industry,” said WRTA president, Kevin J. Wright. “We all know this is a very trying time for many companies. However, as faith tourism provides new market and revenue possibilities, the World Religious Travel Expo provides organizations with a renewed opportunity to experience their best year yet.”
Faith-based travel and hospitality has become an important new market segment for many tour operators, travel agents, destinations and suppliers in the industry. In the past year alone, the religious market has taken on even greater significance, due to its recession-proof and groups-dominated attributes. An estimated 75% of faith-based travelers prefer to travel in group settings while 80% would like to repeat their religious travel experience. Challenging times only serve to bring people of faith together in greater numbers for travel or convention purposes; providing a much needed “stimulus” to the industry.
WRTA recently opened registrations for the Word Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2009, which will be held November 14-16, 2009, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada (USA). Serving as the most important meeting and tradeshow in the religious travel and hospitality industry, the event is expected to draw tourism organizations and travel professionals from 30-plus countries.
A new highlight for the Expo includes co-locating with the National Tour Association Annual Convention, offering members of both associations unprecedented opportunities for business growth, networking, and access to new market opportunities.
For more information about attending or exhibiting at the World Religious Travel Expo, contact the World Religious Travel Association at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or +1-859-219-3529 or by email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com. For more information about WRTA and the Expo, visit www.WRTAreligioustravel.com and www.WRTAexpo.com respectively.
# # #
Jun 21, 2009
Early Bird Discounts ending soon
If you're looking for special savings to attend the World Religious Travel Expo.....be sure to hurry! Early Bird discounts to attend or exhibit at the World Religious Travel Expo will be ending in the coming weeks. For more info, visit www.WRTAexpo.com or call 888-255-WRTA (9782).
Jun 3, 2009
World Religious Travel Expo video released
WRTA just released its inspriational World Relgious Travel Expo video on YOU TUBE. It can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c25vbpwqQ1o
Apr 29, 2009
WRTA Opens registrations for Expo 2009
The World Religious Travel Association is now open and accepting registrations for the World Religious Travel Expo 2009.
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE for best booth space.
To reserve your exhibit booth or attendance, contact WRTA at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or 859-219-3529....or email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com.
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE for best booth space.
To reserve your exhibit booth or attendance, contact WRTA at 888-255-WRTA (9782) or 859-219-3529....or email headquarters@WRTAreligioustravel.com.
Apr 13, 2009
World Religious Travel Expo 2009
The World Religious Travel Expo 2009 will be held in Reno, Nevada (USA) at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center.
The official website: www.WRTAexpo.com
The official website: www.WRTAexpo.com
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