2009 Summit a Huge Success

One of the largest crowds in recent years gathered for the 2009 RSAA Summit in New York City on February 10 and 11. RSAA supplier and receptive tour operator members from across the country gathered for the two-day event for the opportunity to learn, network and build relationships.

Greg Dunn, Vice President of Insights for YPartnership, led the morning session as he discussed emerging consumer trends, lifestyles and sentiments toward travel. The afternoon included sessions on travel technology, the current economic situation and the MICE market. There were also updates from US-Visit and the Office of Travel and Tourism Industries (US Department of Commerce), as well as a question and answer session with receptive tour operators.

Wednesday marked the return of the RSAA Marketplace and its 10-minute business appointment format. Representatives from the top receptive tour operator companies met one-on-one with supplier members to learn about the products suppliers can provide to meet receptive operator needs.

The 2009 RSAA Gala and awards presentation marked the close of this year’s Summit. With more than 300 members in attendance some of the industries best and brightest were recognized with an RSAA Stanley Award (see list below). The Summit provided a wonderful conclusion to a truly great event.

The annual Summit Conference continues to present an excellent educational forum and business opportunity for the inbound industry. It’s the perfect opportunity for industry representatives to come together to network, develop business relationships and learn about industry issues.

RSAA would like to again thank the sponsors, the gala committee and the education committee for making this year’s Summit such a success.