Registration for Travel Weekly's CruiseWorld conference is now open.
This year's event, which takes place Nov. 7 to 9 in Fort Lauderdale, will include exciting general sessions featuring industry leadership, supplier training programs, peer-led workshops, a variety of ship inspections and a diversified exhibitor showcase.
Travel advisers are encouraged to complete registration early to take advantage of the reduced rate of $125.
Applications are also now open for the highly successful Select Travel Advisor Recognition, or STAR Program, designed to give attendees an enhanced CruiseWorld experience while also offsetting some of the costs of attending. STAR participants get the added benefit of individual opportunities to connect face to face with suppliers and exhibitors who've committed to supporting this elite group and who are eager to explore new and dynamic business development strategies.
2017 STAR Program participant Crystal Smith of Envoy Travel in Davidson, N.C., said she thoroughly enjoyed the one-on-one meetings during the Exhibitor Showcase. "Having pre-arranged appointments with suppliers was very beneficial," Smith explained. "I might have just walked through the exhibit hall on my own, but by having the meetings chosen for me, I was prompted to step outside my comfort zone and meet with new companies I otherwise might not have. I've found several of these interactions have opened new doors for me and my business."
Advisers who qualify for the STAR Program and are selected to participate will receive complimentary registration and hotel accommodations for two nights. Specific participation requirements are detailed on the CruiseWorld website.
Many CruiseWorld travel advisers are repeat attendees, and they encourage others to do the same. "I think CruiseWorld is an event every single travel professional should attend at least once," said Gary Whitehurst of G Travel in Boynton Beach, Fla. "From managers and owners to newbie travel advisors, this has truly been a wonderful experience. I met new people, did plenty of networking and absorbed knowledge from the execs like a sponge!"
For additional information about CruiseWorld registration and how to apply for the STAR Program visit www.cruiseworldshow.com.
Correction: CruiseWorld will be held Nov. 7 to 9; incorrect dates appeared in an earlier version of this article.