Responding to member feedback, ASTA plans to hold its annual Global Convention in early May instead of late August, starting next year.
In 2023, the ASTA Global Convention will be held May 2-4 at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino and the Puerto Rico Convention Center. The event will be held in partnership with Discover Puerto Rico.
ASTA president and CEO Zane Kerby said Discover Puerto Rico is a longtime ASTA partner.
"By hosting the Global Convention, Discover Puerto Rico is committing significant resources to support travel advisors who want to learn, or become certified, in selling Puerto Rico," Kerby said in a release. "As a frequent visitor to the island, I know firsthand the variety of unique cultural experiences that await ASTA Convention attendees. ASTA is excited to extend this immersive learning opportunity to our members."
A number of tours focusing on Puerto Rico's history and culture will be offered to attendees. Local sightseeing opportunities will be available during the convention, as will pre- and post-conference educational programs.
"Travel advisors are at the core of our industry, and these days, in which we are imagining and creating new paths to reignite and reshape travel, we want to be facilitators of the process and support our great partners," Discover Puerto Rico CEO Brad Dean said.
The Society is running a special promotion. Travel professionals who register by Aug. 5 for this year's ASTA Global Convention, being held Aug. 24-26 in San Francisco, will get $100 off registration for the convention in Puerto Rico. They will also get early access to sightseeing tours.