LONDON -- To help celebrate its 21st birthday this year, World
Travel Market is on the hunt for 21 people to honor, people who
represent the achievements of international travel and tourism.
World Travel Market is the annual trade exhibition in London; it
will be held this year from Nov. 13 to 16.
"Looking back on these 21 years of growth, development and
change, it occurred to me just how much has happened within the
international travel and tourism industry during that time," said
Fiona Jeffery, exhibition director.
"It's almost as if World Travel Market has served as a kind of
barometer for the industry, charting its ups and downs,
achievements and successes.
"Tribute 21 is not another awards presentation but a recognition
of personal excellence over the past 21 years," said Jeffery. "The
energy and vision of thousands of men and women have made the
industry what it is today.
"[This initiative] is our way of recognizing exceptional
personal excellence in enterprise, innovation and creativity. We
are looking for 21 people who, collectively and individually, can
represent the very best in the global industry, by playing a part
in our 21st opening ceremony on Nov. 13," she added.
Last year, World Travel Market attracted 33,000 visitors and
4,992 exhibiting companies and organizations from 165
countries.
Organizers are asking for nominations from exhibitors, visitors
and trade associations -- in particular those who have remained
loyal to the event over many years -- to find the 21 people who
represent the achievements of thousands.
The final Tribute 21 lineup will be featured in a 21st birthday
film, which is to form part of the opening ceremony celebrations. A
21st birthday party is planned for Nov. 15.
The deadline for nominations is Aug. 18, and nomination forms
can be obtained from Karsalie Hervey by faxing (011) 44-1580
201-869.
Final selection of the Tribute 21 people will be made by World
Travel Market's Advisory Council in September.
The good news will be given to them in October, when they will
be invited to the opening ceremony. Reed Travel Exhibitions is part
of the Reed Exhibition Cos. Ltd, a member of the Reed Elsevier plc
group.