Brand USA, the PPP responsible for promoting the United States as a premier travel destination, has launched a series of travel agency educational programmes at major Indian metropolitan and second tier cities. The first of these educational programmes, titled “Discover America” was held in Bengaluru on December 17, 2013 and in Chennai on December 18, 2013. The overwhelming response was beyond expectations, registering over 255 travel agents and tour operators that attended these seminars.
These seminars included presentations by following US destinations and suppliers; Brand USA India, NYC & Company, San Francisco Travel and San Francisco International Airport, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Enterprise Holdings Inc, Qatar Airways, Visa Presentations – US Consulate
Jennifer A.McIntyre, consul general, United States of America, Chennai addressed the gathering of travel agents at the educational seminar held at Chennai whereas Nicholas J. Manring, consul, American consulate general, Chennai did the honors in Bengaluru. In both cities, there were presentations on US travel visa procedures from the visa team of American Consulate.
Spread over a whole day, these educational seminars have been designed to provide in-depth information on tourism products and attractions from the United States. Additionally, these programmes will educate the travel community about the depth of experiences available for travellers to the US. By providing a holistic view of this destination, the objective is to enable travel agents to understand the diversity of the country and effectively market holidays to the U.S. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain a positive relationship and ongoing engagement with the travel trade industry.
Jay Gray, vice president, global Partnership development, Brand USA, said, “I am convinced that after participating in these educational workshops, Indian travel agents will be armed with the knowledge that is needed to sell the United States effectively as a diverse and desirable holiday destination.”
Sheema Vohra, representative, Brand USA India, commented, “ The USA is a very exciting destination for tourists. From the large exciting urban centers to great shopping and natural areas – the country has an unbelievable range on offer. We just need them to know how much there is to experience and I am certain that these programmes will address many of their questions.”
