Buffalo has been chosen to host the 3rd annual Binational Tourism Summit on April 3rd and 4th in the Adam’s Mark Buffalo-Niagara Hotel. This event is hosted by the Binational Tourism Alliance, a not-for-profit group whose goal is to deliver binational tourism industry advocacy, communications and training and to eliminate the barriers to cross-border tourism development in binational Canadian/U.S. regions while maximizing prosperity, sustainability and quality-of-life in these important destinations.
The theme for this year’s summit is “SHIFT HAPPENS: Changing Tourism from Service Economy to Creative Economy Binationally.” The event does cost money to attend, but it should be an interesting two days filled with great speakers and intriguing topics.
Topics to be discussed are:
1) Cultural, Urban Planning and Transportation strategies used by international destinations. 2) Radical Innovation and Continuous Performance Improvement Techniques for ongoing professional development. 3) The latest Web-based Technology and E-Business practices to help you connect and communicate with your customers. 4) Global Tourism and Trade updates – marketing, destination development and partnerships that will keep you competitive. 5) Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and other barriers to cross-border tourism development and growth.
The summit will serve as an opportunity for those involved with tourism to network with others and share business strategies. On April 3rd, at 5:30pm the summit will begin with our opening Keynote Speaker, Binational Cornucopia Food and Wine stations, Arts & Cultural Showcase, the 2007 Binational Star Awards presentation and musical entertainment.
Then, on April 4 at 8:00am the Summit Trade Show and breakfast begin followed by a full-day program of Keynotes, Plenary Sessions and Breakouts delivered by well-known and respected Political Leaders, Tourism, Cultural, Economic Development and Academic professionals from across North America.
The speakers are numerous and the event should have a great turnout. The Keynote Speaker this year is Mark Brown, Sr. Market Research Analyst, Office of Travel & Tourism Industries, Department of Commerce, from Washington DC. Anyone from the public, private, and not-for-profit is encouraged to attend. Visit their website for more information.