Read the latest updates from Destination DC's tourism team
The Washington, DC Welcome
Destination DC (DDC) launched the official destination training course designed for the DC area hospitality community last October. The Washington, DC Welcome provides a 10-minute video highlighting the top information you need to know about the city and offering suggestions to amplify the #Only1DC experience. Congratulations to the staff at Travelers Aid who completed the course in February. You can check out the video and resources for you and your colleagues on the Washington, DC Welcome landing page.
ITB Berlin (March 4-6, Berlin, Germany)
Attendees: Elliott Ferguson and Darren Gan
Elliott, Darren and DDC’s German representative attended ITB Berlin to promote WorldPride. ITB Berlin (Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin) is the largest tourism trade fair globally. This year, DDC sponsored the LGBT Pavilion, and Elliott presented WorldPride to top LGBT media and trade partners from around the world. Darren had four appointments with local tour operators.
DC in Bloom: NCBF Informational Webinar (March 6, Washington, DC)
Attendees: Georgia Lucas and the VE Team
Visitor Experience Manager Georgia Lucas and National Cherry Blossom Festival Vice President Lillian Iversen hosted a webinar to discuss festival logistics, plus major springtime events. A recording of this webinar is available on the Extranet.
Mexico Reverse Sales Mission (March 8-12, Washington, DC)
Attendees: Letizia Sirtori, Patricia Najar, Mexico Team
The global sales team welcomed key online travel agencies and tour operators from the Mexico market to Washington, DC. This initiative provided them with a firsthand experience of our destination, fostered direct connections with our members and strengthened relationships. The group explored the city, had one-on-one appointments with members, participated in a roundtable discussion to enhance our product offerings and enjoyed an exclusive DC networking reception.
Volonline Tour Operator (Italy) FAM (March 12-15, Washington, DC)
Attendees: Erika Jones and Frances Golla
DDC, in partnership with Emirates Airlines and Volonline Tour Operator, will host an exclusive FAM trip to Washington, DC for 10 luxury travel agents. This trip will provide first-hand experience of the city’s distinctive offers and upscale accommodations, with the goal of increasing bookings and fostering strong recommendations for their affluent clientele. Through this collaboration, we will showcase Washington, DC as a top-tier destination for travelers seeking luxury, culture and exceptional service.
WISE/R Symposium and Women of the Year Luncheon (March 18-19, New York, NY)
Attendees: Theresa Belpulsi and Holly Rattanakone
With 25 local chapters across North America and up to 6,000 members, WISE (Women in Sports & Events) has become the leading professional development resource for women in the sports and event industry. The signature events will be held in New York City. Members will have the opportunity to attend educational panels and network with industry leaders.
Maryland House Travel Plaza Takeover (March 21, Aberdeen, MD)
Attendees: Visitor Experience Team
The team will connect directly with inbound travelers heading to Washington, DC at the Maryland House Travel Plaza. The takeover with member Boating in DC will celebrate all things spring and cherry blossom with music, games, giveaways and more.
DC Loves Buses Day (April 23, Washington, DC)
Register now for the upcoming DC Loves Buses Day on April 23. Interact directly with bus and group tour companies that make Washington, DC one of the top group tour destinations in the country. Promote your business while distributing lunches and gift bags to thank motorcoach drivers. For questions on this annual DC event, please email Visitor Experience and Group Tour Director Lindsay Hill at [email protected].
February Visitor Experience Stats
Publications distributed: 44,315
Online requests: 7,354
Calls: 350
Live Chats: 667 answered by virtual assistant, 18 answered by staff
Top visitor questions last month:
- Which hotels are closest to the cherry blossoms?
- How do I get to the cherry blossoms?
- What are some activities my teenage grandkids will enjoy?
Check out the full Destination DC Member News to learn more about what's going on this month.
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