The following is the current list of Exhibitors for the World Religious Travel Expo 2008:
Trade Organizations/Consortiums
CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association)
ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents)
Tour Operators/Ground Operators
MTS Travel
Globus Family of brands
Trafalgar Tours
Collette Vacations
Raptim International Travel, Raptim USA
Goway Travel GroupsOnly
CIE Tours International
ACA Travel & Tourism
Israel Tourism Partner Tour Operators (companies to be announced soon)
206 Tours
7TUR
Worldwide Travel Services
Aliantour
Incantato Tour & Travel
Travelbound
Unitours
Krouse Travel
Israel Tour Connection
Group IST
Tourist Offices & CVB's
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Jordan Tourism Board of North America
Switzerland Tourism
Israel Ministry of Tourism
Egyptian Tourist Authority
Pennsylvania Dutch Country (Lancaster County)
Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB
Barbados Tourism Authority
Mexico Tourism
Cyprus Tourism Organization
Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines
Holland America Line
Celebrity Cruises
Azamara Cruises
Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises
Monarch Cruise Lines
Travel Agencies
MTS Travel
Christian Travel Finder
A Peace of Heaven Travel~YTB Travel Network, Inc.
Transportation
Rail Europe
Lodging/Accommodations
Gaylord Hotels
Grand Hotel Moderne (Lourdes, France)
Attractions
WordSpring Discovery Center
Air Booking Services
Objectix - Lufthansa Preferred Group Specialist
MTS Travel
Event Services/Convention Planners
Allied T Pro
Consulting/Marketing Services
Religious Market Consulting Group
Faith Travel Development & Consulting
Epiphany Media
KDS Marketing, Sales, & Business Solutions
Travel Health/Insurance
Passport Health
AIG Travel Guard
M.H. Ross Travel Insurance Services
Publications/Media
Going on Faith
Church ExecutiveLeisure Group Travel
May 31, 2008
May 26, 2008
President of Costa Cruises (Maurice Zarmati) confirmed as Expo Keynote Speaker
WRTA is proud to announce the confirmation of Maurice Zarmati, President of Costa Cruises, as a Keynote Speaker for the World Religious Travel Expo.
Maurice M. Zarmati
President & Chief Executive Officer of Costa Cruise Lines—North America
In many ways, Maurice M. Zarmati seemed destined to assume his role as President & Chief Executive Officer of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. From the five languages he speaks fluently, to his Italian heritage and his long-standing ties to the cruise industry, Zarmati brings a wealth of experience and savoir faire to the position, which he began in March 2008.
Born to an Italian father and French mother, Zarmati and his family emigrated from his birthplace in Egypt to Genoa, Italy in 1956. Zarmati remembers the foreshadowing of his future upon arrival – the first image he saw was a Costa logo displayed distinctly in the Port of Savona. After spending three years in the Northern Italian port city, Zarmati’s family moved to the United States and settled in Miami. Already fluent in Italian, French and Arabic, Zarmati became proficient in English as well, eventually adding Spanish to round out his linguistic skills to five languages. Zarmati carried this passion for language with him to his studies and graduated from the University of Miami in December 1969 with a B.A. in comparative linguistics.
In January 1970, he joined Arison Shipping, which was the general managing agent for a Miami-based cruise line. Two years later, he worked with the legendary Ted Arison and was part of the original team that formed Carnival Cruise Lines, serving as southeast regional sales manager from 1973 until his promotion to director of sales in 1979. Zarmati was named vice president of sales in 1987, a position in which he became responsible for the largest field sales force in the cruise industry.
In his role with Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line, Zarmati oversees sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services for the North American region. He reports to Gianni Onorato, President of Costa Crociere.
Zarmati is actively involved in the South Florida community. He is a past president of the Executives' Association of Greater Miami and has served on the board of directors of the Fiduciary Trust International of the South, Boy Scouts of America and the National Safety Council. Additionally, Zarmati is involved with the United Way of Dade County and is on the board of trustees for the National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts. He has co-chaired the Star Chefs & Wine Extravaganza benefiting the March of Dimes Foundation, and has served on the executive committee for the Miami Heart Association’s annual Walk-A-Thon. A member of the Travel Industry Association of America, Zarmati is a certified travel counselor and serves on the Marketing committee of the American Society of Travel Agents. He is also a certified translator of French and Italian.
Zarmati resides in Miami Beach and has two children, Sabrina, a proud senior at Stetson University and Joshua, and exotic animal handler. His interests include wine appreciation and fine dining and he is a member of a number of different wine organizations.
Maurice M. Zarmati
President & Chief Executive Officer of Costa Cruise Lines—North America
In many ways, Maurice M. Zarmati seemed destined to assume his role as President & Chief Executive Officer of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. From the five languages he speaks fluently, to his Italian heritage and his long-standing ties to the cruise industry, Zarmati brings a wealth of experience and savoir faire to the position, which he began in March 2008.
Born to an Italian father and French mother, Zarmati and his family emigrated from his birthplace in Egypt to Genoa, Italy in 1956. Zarmati remembers the foreshadowing of his future upon arrival – the first image he saw was a Costa logo displayed distinctly in the Port of Savona. After spending three years in the Northern Italian port city, Zarmati’s family moved to the United States and settled in Miami. Already fluent in Italian, French and Arabic, Zarmati became proficient in English as well, eventually adding Spanish to round out his linguistic skills to five languages. Zarmati carried this passion for language with him to his studies and graduated from the University of Miami in December 1969 with a B.A. in comparative linguistics.
In January 1970, he joined Arison Shipping, which was the general managing agent for a Miami-based cruise line. Two years later, he worked with the legendary Ted Arison and was part of the original team that formed Carnival Cruise Lines, serving as southeast regional sales manager from 1973 until his promotion to director of sales in 1979. Zarmati was named vice president of sales in 1987, a position in which he became responsible for the largest field sales force in the cruise industry.
In his role with Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line, Zarmati oversees sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services for the North American region. He reports to Gianni Onorato, President of Costa Crociere.
Zarmati is actively involved in the South Florida community. He is a past president of the Executives' Association of Greater Miami and has served on the board of directors of the Fiduciary Trust International of the South, Boy Scouts of America and the National Safety Council. Additionally, Zarmati is involved with the United Way of Dade County and is on the board of trustees for the National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts. He has co-chaired the Star Chefs & Wine Extravaganza benefiting the March of Dimes Foundation, and has served on the executive committee for the Miami Heart Association’s annual Walk-A-Thon. A member of the Travel Industry Association of America, Zarmati is a certified travel counselor and serves on the Marketing committee of the American Society of Travel Agents. He is also a certified translator of French and Italian.
Zarmati resides in Miami Beach and has two children, Sabrina, a proud senior at Stetson University and Joshua, and exotic animal handler. His interests include wine appreciation and fine dining and he is a member of a number of different wine organizations.
Apr 12, 2008
Bahamas Tourism Minister confirmed as Expo Keynote Speaker
The World Religiou s Travel Association is proud to announce the confirmation of the Honorable Neko C. Grant, Bahamas Minister of Tourism and Aviation, as a confirmed Keynote Speaker of the World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008.
Apr 5, 2008
Current Exhibitors for World Religious Travel Expo 2008
WRTA extends a warm welcome to all of our current confirmed exhibitors for the World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008....
Trade Organizations/Consortiums
CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association)
ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents)
Tour Operators/Ground Operators
MTS Travel
Globus Family of brands
Trafalgar Tours
Collette Vacations
Raptim International Travel, Raptim USA
Goway Travel GroupsOnly
CIE Tours International
Homeric Tours
ACA Travel & Tourism
Israel Tourism Partner Tour Operators (companies to be announced soon)
206 Tours
7TUR
Worldwide Travel Services
Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises
Aliantour
Tourist Offices & CVB's
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Jordan Tourism Board of North America
Switzerland Tourism
Israel Ministry of Tourism
Egyptian Tourist Authority
Pennsylvania Dutch Country (Lancaster County)
Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB
Barbados Tourism Authority
Mexico Tourism
Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines
Holland America Line
Celebrity Cruises
Azamara Cruises
Monarch Cruise Lines
Travel Agencies
MTS Travel
Christian Travel Finder
A Peace of Heaven Travel~YTB Travel Network, Inc.
Lodging/Accommodations
Gaylord Hotels
Grand Hotel Moderne (Lourdes, France)
Attractions
WordSpring Discovery Center
Biltmore Estate
Fee Hedrick Family Entertainment
Air Booking Services
Objectix - Lufthansa Preferred Group Specialist
MTS Travel
Event Services/Convention Planners
Allied T Pro
Consulting/Marketing Services
Religious Market Consulting Group
Faith Travel Development & Consulting
Epiphany Media
KDS Marketing, Sales, & Business Solutions
Travel Health/Insurance
Passport Health
AIG Travel Guard
Publications/Media
Going on Faith
Church Executive
Leisure Group Travel
Trade Organizations/Consortiums
CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association)
ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents)
Tour Operators/Ground Operators
MTS Travel
Globus Family of brands
Trafalgar Tours
Collette Vacations
Raptim International Travel, Raptim USA
Goway Travel GroupsOnly
CIE Tours International
Homeric Tours
ACA Travel & Tourism
Israel Tourism Partner Tour Operators (companies to be announced soon)
206 Tours
7TUR
Worldwide Travel Services
Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises
Aliantour
Tourist Offices & CVB's
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Jordan Tourism Board of North America
Switzerland Tourism
Israel Ministry of Tourism
Egyptian Tourist Authority
Pennsylvania Dutch Country (Lancaster County)
Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB
Barbados Tourism Authority
Mexico Tourism
Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines
Holland America Line
Celebrity Cruises
Azamara Cruises
Monarch Cruise Lines
Travel Agencies
MTS Travel
Christian Travel Finder
A Peace of Heaven Travel~YTB Travel Network, Inc.
Lodging/Accommodations
Gaylord Hotels
Grand Hotel Moderne (Lourdes, France)
Attractions
WordSpring Discovery Center
Biltmore Estate
Fee Hedrick Family Entertainment
Air Booking Services
Objectix - Lufthansa Preferred Group Specialist
MTS Travel
Event Services/Convention Planners
Allied T Pro
Consulting/Marketing Services
Religious Market Consulting Group
Faith Travel Development & Consulting
Epiphany Media
KDS Marketing, Sales, & Business Solutions
Travel Health/Insurance
Passport Health
AIG Travel Guard
Publications/Media
Going on Faith
Church Executive
Leisure Group Travel
Mar 20, 2008
Exhib Booths 50% sold out
Exhibit booths for the World Religious Travel Expo are now 50% sold out. To view the current list of exhibitors including major tour operators, cruise lines, tourist boards, and more - click here www.religioustravelexpo.com/List_of_Exhibitors.html
Mar 5, 2008
WRTA Offers Expo & Membership Savings for Spring
WRTA OFFERS DISCOUNT MEMBERSHIP-EXPO PACKAGE TO TRAVEL AGENTS
Additional Savings offered to Agency Consortium Members in ‘New Year/New Clients’ Program
LITTLETON, Colorado (March 3, 2008) – The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) has launched a 90-day New Year/New Clients campaign for travel agents that offers WRTA membership and registration for the World Religious Travel Expo 2008 at substantially discounted prices. During this 90-day period, travel agents can save $50 on the Expo fee or $100 if they decide to also join WRTA. Agents who belong to a consortium can save $75 on the Expo fee or $150 if they decide to also join WRTA.
“In a year of economic uncertainty, our New Year/New Clients program provides travel agents an opportunity to expand their client base through one of the industry’s fastest growing and most lucrative markets: faith-based travel,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President. “This very generous and dynamic offer provides agents with concrete venues to gain education, networking opportunities, and direct exposure to cruise and tour suppliers, and the 200 million-plus North American religious market.”
This special 90-day offer applies for any agent registration made from March 1- May 31, 2008.
In the previous year, international religious travel by Americans grew a record 36%; religious travel in 2008 is poised for another year of tremendous expansion. Every sector of faith tourism is experiencing growth, including tour operators, cruise lines, travel agencies, motorcoach companies, hotel properties and tourist destinations.
By joining the World Religious Travel Association, agents can take advantage of networking opportunities, religious market business resources, and increased publicity within the religious travel industry – in addition to displaying the WRTA membership logo on promotional materials, signifying affiliation with the leading faith tourism organization. By attending the World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008, travel agents can develop key partnerships, meet qualified prospects, find new suppliers, attend market-specific workshops and discover how to enter or expand their presence in faith tourism.
WRTA Expo exhibitors will cover all sectors of faith tourism. Major tour operators and cruise lines already registered include Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Trafalgar Tours, Globus Family of brands, Collette Vacations, Goway, CIE Tours International, and MTS Travel. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) will exhibit and conduct an agent seminar program during the Expo’s Educational Conference. Additional workshops will include sessions focused on understanding and tapping into faith based travel; creating business plans; group and FIT sales; and sourcing and expanding business. The Expo will be held October 29-November 1, 2008 at the Gaylord Palms Resort Hotel & Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
To learn more about WRTA EXPO 2008 and pricing discounts for agents and consortiums, or to register online, visit www.ReligiousTravelExpo.com or call 1-800-657-1288 (or 360-778-3047). For more information about becoming a WRTA Member and joining the leading network for the religious travel industry, visit www.ReligiousTravelAssociation.com.
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Additional Savings offered to Agency Consortium Members in ‘New Year/New Clients’ Program
LITTLETON, Colorado (March 3, 2008) – The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) has launched a 90-day New Year/New Clients campaign for travel agents that offers WRTA membership and registration for the World Religious Travel Expo 2008 at substantially discounted prices. During this 90-day period, travel agents can save $50 on the Expo fee or $100 if they decide to also join WRTA. Agents who belong to a consortium can save $75 on the Expo fee or $150 if they decide to also join WRTA.
“In a year of economic uncertainty, our New Year/New Clients program provides travel agents an opportunity to expand their client base through one of the industry’s fastest growing and most lucrative markets: faith-based travel,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President. “This very generous and dynamic offer provides agents with concrete venues to gain education, networking opportunities, and direct exposure to cruise and tour suppliers, and the 200 million-plus North American religious market.”
This special 90-day offer applies for any agent registration made from March 1- May 31, 2008.
In the previous year, international religious travel by Americans grew a record 36%; religious travel in 2008 is poised for another year of tremendous expansion. Every sector of faith tourism is experiencing growth, including tour operators, cruise lines, travel agencies, motorcoach companies, hotel properties and tourist destinations.
By joining the World Religious Travel Association, agents can take advantage of networking opportunities, religious market business resources, and increased publicity within the religious travel industry – in addition to displaying the WRTA membership logo on promotional materials, signifying affiliation with the leading faith tourism organization. By attending the World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008, travel agents can develop key partnerships, meet qualified prospects, find new suppliers, attend market-specific workshops and discover how to enter or expand their presence in faith tourism.
WRTA Expo exhibitors will cover all sectors of faith tourism. Major tour operators and cruise lines already registered include Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Trafalgar Tours, Globus Family of brands, Collette Vacations, Goway, CIE Tours International, and MTS Travel. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) will exhibit and conduct an agent seminar program during the Expo’s Educational Conference. Additional workshops will include sessions focused on understanding and tapping into faith based travel; creating business plans; group and FIT sales; and sourcing and expanding business. The Expo will be held October 29-November 1, 2008 at the Gaylord Palms Resort Hotel & Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
To learn more about WRTA EXPO 2008 and pricing discounts for agents and consortiums, or to register online, visit www.ReligiousTravelExpo.com or call 1-800-657-1288 (or 360-778-3047). For more information about becoming a WRTA Member and joining the leading network for the religious travel industry, visit www.ReligiousTravelAssociation.com.
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Jan 18, 2008
CLIA to Conduct Educational Workshops at World Religious Travel Expo
LITTLETON, Colorado (Jan. 17, 2008) – The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) announced today that the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) will conduct educational workshops at this fall’s World Religious Travel Expo. The timing is ideal, as faith-based cruising has become an influential segment of the growing $18 billion religious travel industry, with hundreds of faith-based groups embarking each year on cruises and full-ship charters carrying tens of thousands of travelers.
“As 75% of faith-based cruisers are first-timers, the religious market provides a tremendous new market opportunity,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President. “With CLIA’s participation in the Expo, combined with the presence of cruise lines such as WRTA Charter Members Carnival Cruise Lines and Holland America Line, travel agencies will discover first-hand how cruising can play a key role in appealing to and capitalizing on the robust, lucrative faith vacation segment.”
The World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008 will be held Oct. 29 – Nov. 1, 2008 at the renowned Gaylord Palms Resort Hotel & Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. More than 400 participants are expected at this first-ever international convention for faith-tourism, hosted by the World Religious Travel Association.
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About the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA)
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) is the leading network for shaping, enriching, and expanding the $18 billion global faith tourism industry. WRTA exists to bring the worldwide trade and North American religious consumer together for the primary purpose of promoting and providing quality travel experiences around the globe. As the source and voice for the religious travel industry, WRTA provides members opportunities to network, learn, contribute, and lead. WRTA embraces all segments of faith tourism: Pilgrimages, Missionary, Cruises, Leisure Conferences, Retreats, Destinations, Attractions, Christian Camps, Family, Student/Youth, Adventure and Volunteer Vacations. To learn more about the Association or become a member, visit www.religioustravelassociation.com or contact WRTA at 1-800-657-1288 or 360-778-3047. To attend or exhibit at the World Religious Travel Expo, register online at www.religioustravelexpo.com. To join the (newly launched) first online global community for faith tourism visit WRTA Social Network www.religioustravelnetwork.com, hosted by the World Religious Travel Association.
About CLIA
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America’s largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.
For more information or to obtain an interview: Please contact Christine Moore, Epiphany Media, at 469-688-5683.
“As 75% of faith-based cruisers are first-timers, the religious market provides a tremendous new market opportunity,” said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA President. “With CLIA’s participation in the Expo, combined with the presence of cruise lines such as WRTA Charter Members Carnival Cruise Lines and Holland America Line, travel agencies will discover first-hand how cruising can play a key role in appealing to and capitalizing on the robust, lucrative faith vacation segment.”
The World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008 will be held Oct. 29 – Nov. 1, 2008 at the renowned Gaylord Palms Resort Hotel & Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. More than 400 participants are expected at this first-ever international convention for faith-tourism, hosted by the World Religious Travel Association.
###
About the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA)
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) is the leading network for shaping, enriching, and expanding the $18 billion global faith tourism industry. WRTA exists to bring the worldwide trade and North American religious consumer together for the primary purpose of promoting and providing quality travel experiences around the globe. As the source and voice for the religious travel industry, WRTA provides members opportunities to network, learn, contribute, and lead. WRTA embraces all segments of faith tourism: Pilgrimages, Missionary, Cruises, Leisure Conferences, Retreats, Destinations, Attractions, Christian Camps, Family, Student/Youth, Adventure and Volunteer Vacations. To learn more about the Association or become a member, visit www.religioustravelassociation.com or contact WRTA at 1-800-657-1288 or 360-778-3047. To attend or exhibit at the World Religious Travel Expo, register online at www.religioustravelexpo.com. To join the (newly launched) first online global community for faith tourism visit WRTA Social Network www.religioustravelnetwork.com, hosted by the World Religious Travel Association.
About CLIA
The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America’s largest cruise industry organization. CLIA represents the interests of 24 member lines and participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA is also engaged in travel agent training, research and marketing communications to promote the value and desirability of cruise vacations and counts as members 16,500 travel agencies. For more information on CLIA, the cruise industry, and CLIA-member cruise lines and travel agencies, visit www.cruising.org.
For more information or to obtain an interview: Please contact Christine Moore, Epiphany Media, at 469-688-5683.
Jan 15, 2008
Newest Exhibitors: Raptim Travel & Go Way
WRTA is proud to announce the confirmation of Raptim Travel (www.raptim.org; www.raptimusa.com) and Go Way (www.goway.com) as the newest exhibitors at the World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008. This makes the Tradeshow Exhibit Booth space 25% sold out with 9 months to go.
For a full listing of current exhibitors visit http://www.religioustravelexpo.com/List_of_Exhibitors.html
For a full listing of current exhibitors visit http://www.religioustravelexpo.com/List_of_Exhibitors.html
Jan 5, 2008
The Countdown has begun to Expo 2008
The countdown has begun for the World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference 2008. Only 9 months left......
Register now and reserve your space today by visiting www.religioustravelexpo.com.
Meet hundreds of travel companies, tourist boards, agencies, and group planners seeking to enter or expand their presence in faith tourism. It is the MOST IMPORTANT gathering of the year for any organization or individual involved in religious travel.
Register now and reserve your space today by visiting www.religioustravelexpo.com.
Meet hundreds of travel companies, tourist boards, agencies, and group planners seeking to enter or expand their presence in faith tourism. It is the MOST IMPORTANT gathering of the year for any organization or individual involved in religious travel.
Oct 8, 2007
World Religious Travel Expo Registrations Begin
World Religious Travel Expo to Debut October 2008 -- World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) Co-Ops with Top Travel Trade to Host First International Forum for $18 Billion Faith Tourism Industry
Click here to view the full press release
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) will host the first annual World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference, Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2008, in Orlando. As the first international event of its kind, it will feature hundreds of travel wholesalers, suppliers, tourist boards, agencies and group travel organizers from the $18 billion faith tourism industry.
Littleton, CO (PRWEB) October 8, 2007 -- The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) will host the first annual World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference, Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2008, in Orlando. As the first international event of its kind, it will feature hundreds of travel wholesalers, suppliers, tourist boards, agencies and group travel organizers from the $18 billion faith tourism industry.
Current sponsors and exhibitors include Globus Family of brands, Brennan Vacations, Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises, Switzerland Tourism, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Jordan Tourism Board of North America, Gaylord Hotels, Pennsylvania Dutch Convention and Visitors Bureau, WordSpring Discovery Center, Christian Travel Finder, World Mission Tours and Trafalgar Tours.
"Although religious tourism is one of history's oldest travel segments, no large-scale trade convention has ever been held for this 300-million traveler market," said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. "All market segments will be represented at the Expo, including pilgrimage, cruising, missions, leisure vacations, attractions, conferences, retreats, Christian camps, and volunteer vacations, among others."
The WRTA Expo will feature two venues: The International Tradeshow and The Educational Conference. The combined event will provide the first world-class forum for travel suppliers, destinations, wholesalers, agencies and church travel planners to come face-to-face, develop partnerships, find new products and services, generate new qualified leads and build long-term profitable relationships. Wright expects the tradeshow to become the annual gathering for exhibiting, networking and brand building in the vast faith tourism industry.
"Whether cruising as a single, couple, family, group, or even a full-ship charter, the World's Leading Cruise Lines (Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruise, and the Yachts of Seabourn) provide an excellent vacation experience for faith-based travelers," said Jack Anderson, vice president of marketing for Carnival Corporation. "We are pleased to be a sponsor of the World Religious Travel Association and appreciate the choice of our lines by faith-based travelers and travel agencies."
"As a Holy Land destination that provides a one-stop location to meet all the needs of faith-based travelers - from cruising to adventure, retreats to study tours and all the segments in between - we are delighted to sponsor the WRTA Expo," added Malia Asfour, director of the Jordan Tourism Board of North America (JTBNA), a WRTA charter member. "We look forward to working with WRTA to showcase fresh and unique travel opportunities for this dynamic and growing industry."
The Educational Conference will provide the most comprehensive learning program ever offered on religious tourism - for both trade and consumer. Through leading industry speakers, dynamic presentations, panel discussions, interactive break-out sessions, seminars and peer networking forums, the trade participants can expand their knowledge of the opportunities in the new niche markets within faith tourism. Participants can listen to and discuss with travel experts market trends, marketing intelligence, the latest products/services and actionable ways to exceed faith-based customer's expectations. Group planners will attend product seminars hosted by travel industry experts, while also learning how to enrich and expand their travel ministry programs.
"Both faith tourism and group travel have evolved over the last several decades with obvious synergy, so it makes perfect sense for Brennan Vacations to sponsor the WRTA Expo in order to lead and facilitate the faith travel industry's growth," said Robert F. Brennan, Founder of Brennan Vacations. "Since 1978, our goal has been simple - to provide fresh, authentic journeys of discovery by treating our customers as individuals, while providing the benefits of group travel. Our approach particularly resonates with religious groups, and I look forward to continuing the tradition through our participation in the industry's first international faith travel tradeshow and educational conference."
The Expo will be hosted Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2008 at the renowned Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The top-rated facility and environment provides an exceptional forum for networking and exhibiting.
Exhibitors will include tour operators, tourist boards, cruise lines, transportation companies, airlines, travel agencies, event planning services, hotels and accommodations, missionary agencies, travel insurance companies and faith-based destinations among others.
Early-Bird savings apply to all organizations and individuals that register and pay by November 30, 2007. All WRTA Members will receive substantial savings when registering. Premium booth space is limited. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are many and suit virtually any budget, including customized sponsorships.
To learn more or register online, visit www.religioustravelexpo.com or call 1-800-657-1288. For more information about becoming a WRTA Member and joining the leading network for the religious travel industry, visit www.religioustravelassociation.com. Both free and paid memberships are available, including the complimentary monthly e-newsletter Religious Travel Buzz, which keeps companies, groups, and individuals abreast of faith-based travel industry news, events and announcements.
About the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA):
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) is the leading network for shaping, enriching, and expanding the $18 billion global faith tourism industry. WRTA exists to bring the worldwide trade and North American religious consumer together for the primary purpose of promoting and providing quality travel experiences around the globe. As the source and voice for the religious travel industry, WRTA provides members opportunities to network, learn, contribute, and lead. WRTA embraces all segments of faith tourism: Pilgrimages, Missionary, Cruises, Leisure Conferences, Retreats, Destinations, Attractions, Christian Camps, Family, Student/Youth, Adventure and Volunteer Vacations. To learn more about the Association or become a member, visit www.religioustravelassociation.com or contact WRTA at 1-800-657-1288. To attend or exhibit at the World Religious Travel Expo, register online at www.religioustravelexpo.com. To join the world's first online global community for faith tourism visit WRTA Social Network www.religioustravelnetwork.com , hosted by the World Religious Travel Association.
For more information or to obtain an interview: Please contact Christine Moore, epiphany media, at 469-688-5683.
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Click here to view the full press release
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) will host the first annual World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference, Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2008, in Orlando. As the first international event of its kind, it will feature hundreds of travel wholesalers, suppliers, tourist boards, agencies and group travel organizers from the $18 billion faith tourism industry.
Littleton, CO (PRWEB) October 8, 2007 -- The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) will host the first annual World Religious Travel Expo & Educational Conference, Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2008, in Orlando. As the first international event of its kind, it will feature hundreds of travel wholesalers, suppliers, tourist boards, agencies and group travel organizers from the $18 billion faith tourism industry.
Current sponsors and exhibitors include Globus Family of brands, Brennan Vacations, Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises, Switzerland Tourism, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Jordan Tourism Board of North America, Gaylord Hotels, Pennsylvania Dutch Convention and Visitors Bureau, WordSpring Discovery Center, Christian Travel Finder, World Mission Tours and Trafalgar Tours.
"Although religious tourism is one of history's oldest travel segments, no large-scale trade convention has ever been held for this 300-million traveler market," said Kevin J. Wright, WRTA president. "All market segments will be represented at the Expo, including pilgrimage, cruising, missions, leisure vacations, attractions, conferences, retreats, Christian camps, and volunteer vacations, among others."
The WRTA Expo will feature two venues: The International Tradeshow and The Educational Conference. The combined event will provide the first world-class forum for travel suppliers, destinations, wholesalers, agencies and church travel planners to come face-to-face, develop partnerships, find new products and services, generate new qualified leads and build long-term profitable relationships. Wright expects the tradeshow to become the annual gathering for exhibiting, networking and brand building in the vast faith tourism industry.
"Whether cruising as a single, couple, family, group, or even a full-ship charter, the World's Leading Cruise Lines (Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruise, and the Yachts of Seabourn) provide an excellent vacation experience for faith-based travelers," said Jack Anderson, vice president of marketing for Carnival Corporation. "We are pleased to be a sponsor of the World Religious Travel Association and appreciate the choice of our lines by faith-based travelers and travel agencies."
"As a Holy Land destination that provides a one-stop location to meet all the needs of faith-based travelers - from cruising to adventure, retreats to study tours and all the segments in between - we are delighted to sponsor the WRTA Expo," added Malia Asfour, director of the Jordan Tourism Board of North America (JTBNA), a WRTA charter member. "We look forward to working with WRTA to showcase fresh and unique travel opportunities for this dynamic and growing industry."
The Educational Conference will provide the most comprehensive learning program ever offered on religious tourism - for both trade and consumer. Through leading industry speakers, dynamic presentations, panel discussions, interactive break-out sessions, seminars and peer networking forums, the trade participants can expand their knowledge of the opportunities in the new niche markets within faith tourism. Participants can listen to and discuss with travel experts market trends, marketing intelligence, the latest products/services and actionable ways to exceed faith-based customer's expectations. Group planners will attend product seminars hosted by travel industry experts, while also learning how to enrich and expand their travel ministry programs.
"Both faith tourism and group travel have evolved over the last several decades with obvious synergy, so it makes perfect sense for Brennan Vacations to sponsor the WRTA Expo in order to lead and facilitate the faith travel industry's growth," said Robert F. Brennan, Founder of Brennan Vacations. "Since 1978, our goal has been simple - to provide fresh, authentic journeys of discovery by treating our customers as individuals, while providing the benefits of group travel. Our approach particularly resonates with religious groups, and I look forward to continuing the tradition through our participation in the industry's first international faith travel tradeshow and educational conference."
The Expo will be hosted Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2008 at the renowned Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The top-rated facility and environment provides an exceptional forum for networking and exhibiting.
Exhibitors will include tour operators, tourist boards, cruise lines, transportation companies, airlines, travel agencies, event planning services, hotels and accommodations, missionary agencies, travel insurance companies and faith-based destinations among others.
Early-Bird savings apply to all organizations and individuals that register and pay by November 30, 2007. All WRTA Members will receive substantial savings when registering. Premium booth space is limited. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are many and suit virtually any budget, including customized sponsorships.
To learn more or register online, visit www.religioustravelexpo.com or call 1-800-657-1288. For more information about becoming a WRTA Member and joining the leading network for the religious travel industry, visit www.religioustravelassociation.com. Both free and paid memberships are available, including the complimentary monthly e-newsletter Religious Travel Buzz, which keeps companies, groups, and individuals abreast of faith-based travel industry news, events and announcements.
About the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA):
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) is the leading network for shaping, enriching, and expanding the $18 billion global faith tourism industry. WRTA exists to bring the worldwide trade and North American religious consumer together for the primary purpose of promoting and providing quality travel experiences around the globe. As the source and voice for the religious travel industry, WRTA provides members opportunities to network, learn, contribute, and lead. WRTA embraces all segments of faith tourism: Pilgrimages, Missionary, Cruises, Leisure Conferences, Retreats, Destinations, Attractions, Christian Camps, Family, Student/Youth, Adventure and Volunteer Vacations. To learn more about the Association or become a member, visit www.religioustravelassociation.com or contact WRTA at 1-800-657-1288. To attend or exhibit at the World Religious Travel Expo, register online at www.religioustravelexpo.com. To join the world's first online global community for faith tourism visit WRTA Social Network www.religioustravelnetwork.com , hosted by the World Religious Travel Association.
For more information or to obtain an interview: Please contact Christine Moore, epiphany media, at 469-688-5683.
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