Despite some threats to boycott Florida for political reasons, destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and tourism board leaders turned out in record numbers to attend the event. Destinations International (DI) Annual Convention 2024 in Tampa. Held July 16-18 at two connected Marriott hotels near the Tampa Convention Center, the event attracted nearly 2,000 attendees, including more than 750 international delegates from more than 30 countries.
“We had a record annual convention in Tampa this year and, based on feedback from our guests, we couldn’t be happier with the results,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of International destinations“We are deeply grateful to Visit Tampa Bay President and CEO Santiago Corrada and his exceptional team for their warm hospitality, partnership and hard work in making this year’s convention an unforgettable experience.”
The TSNN and Connecting the market The teams were on hand to learn about business and leisure travel trends from CVB’s perspective. Here are 12 highlights from the event for destinations hosting meetings, events, conventions and trade shows around the world.
Welcome by the Mayor of Tampa. At the opening session, participants were welcomed by Visit Tampa Bay Santiago Corrado, President and CEO, and Jane Castor, Mayor of Tampa. A detailed case study is being prepared, with details on DI’s initiatives to give back to the city and an estimate of the economic impact of the convention on the local Tampa community. Stay tuned.
Education. Attendees had the opportunity to attend more than three dozen breakout sessions on topics ranging from talent retention and succession planning to social inclusion and artificial intelligence. The Connect Marketplace team hosted a session titled “You Asked… Now the Experts Will Answer!” and TSNN’s Danica Tormohlen presented a 15-minute talk on trade show trends.
Industry RecognitionDuring a ceremony on the main stage, awards were presented to members of the travel and hospitality industry who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and promise to the continued success of destination marketing around the world. 68 Industry Leaders Receive CDME Certificationthe highest individual education level in the sector.
Next generation hospitality professionals. The scholarship recipients were present and awarded on the main stage. Nine students awarded HBCU scholarships for 2024-25 academic year.
Emerging leaders honored. A group of young emerging leaders has been selected for the Class of 2024 30 Under 30.
DI Hall of FameIn 2024, DI inducted five honorees into its Hall of Fame, including William “Bill” Talbert, CDME, former president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (pictured above); Ted Levine, Founder and Former President of Development Counselors International (DCI); Dale Lockett, Former President and CEO of Visit Bastrop and Visit Albuquerque; Dan Lincoln, CTA, Former President and CEO of Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau; Karen Williams, Former President and CEO of Louisville Tourism.
Price of the mind. The DI Foundation Spirit of Hospitality Award was presented to Adam Sacks, founder and president of Tourism Economics.
Resources for CVBs. Several launches were announced at the event, including:
- Destinations International and TravelAbility have launched the “Accessibility Handbook”“(pictured) to help destinations and travel businesses improve their accessibility and inclusion initiatives.
- Destinations International has launched the Destination Effect Advocacy campaign and website promote a better understanding of the important role and impact of destination organizations in their communities.
- Miles Partnership and Destinations International have launched the first evidence-based, industry-led destination management framework.
Change of direction. During the convention, DI and Destinations International Foundation held elections and approved their New Boards of Directors, Directors and Officers for 2024-2025Scott White, President and CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springswill serve as Chairman of Destinations International, and Amir Eylon, Chairman and CEO of Longwoods International, will serve as Chairman of the Destinations International Foundation.
Experiences in Tampa. Located just blocks from the headquarters hotels, Sparkman Wharf hosted the opening reception, which culminated in a spectacular drone show over the water (see main image). Known for its history, Ybor City hosted the closing party with a set by house band DI.
Tribute to Chris Thompson of Brand USA. After 12 years at BrandUSA, Thompson is retiring and his advocacy efforts have been recognized by his peers.
Next year’s dates and venue have been announced. The 2025 The DI Annual Convention will be held in Chicago, Illinois, July 9-11, 2025.
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