BIG NUMBERS FOR VCOM

This week, Vacation.com is hosting more than 1,300 travel agents, suppliers and industry professionals for its 15th International Conference & Trade Show at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Orlando. The Canadian delegation holds strong once again this year with approximately 150 in attendance. This year’s 2013 Conference theme is “Rise and Shine,”encouraging agents to rise up above the competition and shine above all challenges. On the heels of Vacation.com’s historic 2012 conference aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas, Vacation.com easily sold out space for this week’s record-setting conference, which runs through June 15. “We knew that by hosting our conference in Orlando – one of the most popular destinations in North America – we would sell out quickly. This year is easily our largest conference ever, which is particularly exciting as we celebrate our 15th anniversary hosting this annual event and commemorate how far we have come as an organization in that time,”said Vacation.com vice-president Canada, Christine James. “Just as the travel industry evolves and grows, so does Vacation.com. In the areas of membership, suppliers, technology, training, and marketing, we continue to be innovative in our approach to bridging the relationship between our member agents and our supplier partners.”With more than 125 hours of workshops – covering topics from marketing and sales to Google and social media – the week’s agenda is packed with some of the most comprehensive training the industry has to offer. The 2013 conference features five general sessions, which provide insights from industry leaders on their secrets to success. Two industry executive panels and an expansive preferred supplier trade show are also planned. In addition to training opportunities, supplier seminars, networking and motivational speakers, offsite entertainment includes an opening beach party and an excursion to SeaWorld Orlando where agents will experience the park’s new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin exhibit. Pictured (l-r) John Lovell, president, Vacation.com, Christine James, vice-president Canada, Vacation.com, Stephen McGillivray, chief marketing officer, Travel Leaders Group. (http://www.conference.joinvacation.com)