International Travel Show 2023 Conference Schedule

The Three-Day Event to Feature Customized Programming for Meetings and Event Planners, Travel Advisors and Consumer Travelers 
NY, NY (October 25, 2023) International Travel Show (ITS2023), the premier event for the travel industry, has unveiled its roster of global exhibitors, speakers, sessions, and creative programing for a first-of-its kind industry showcase taking place Thursday, October 26 to Saturday, October 28, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York. ITS2023 promises to be a vibrant gathering of travel sellers and buyers where knowledge is shared, connections are forged, and the future of travel is shaped.

As the epicenter for destinations, hotels, cruise lines, airlines, and tour operators, ITS2023 offers a unique platform for Meetings and Event Planners, Travel Advisors, Group Travel Professionals, and Frequent Consumer Travelers to connect. The three-day event will feature two dedicated trade days allowing exhibitors and attendees to engage in productive discussions about the travel industry and one full day of inspiration for consumers looking to make their next vacation decision. To streamline the experience, ITS2023 has introduced an Appointment System, ensuring that meetings are seamlessly optimized.

Conference seminars, thoughtfully developed by professional organizations such as PCMA, IAEE, and Destinations International, will tackle emerging issues, innovative solutions, and the latest trends in meetings and events. On Thursday, October 26, sessions will include "The Ultimate Inflation Hack-Crowdsourcing 100+ Cost-Saving and Cost-Avoidance Ideas," a panel presentation by PCMA, and "State of the Exhibition Industry-Future Trends and Considerations," presented by Cathy Breden, COO, IAEE and CEO, Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR).

“ITS differs in significant ways from traditional travel trade events with specific knowledge-based programming developed by and for leading professional groups for their members,” said Paul Muir, President of ITS. “Each organization is helping to support their constituents with information to advance professional development in a rapidly changing business environment.” 

Friday, October 27, will feature panel discussions on travel trends, new business models, emerging solutions, and updates on industry products, and services. The day will kick off with “Top Travel Trends for 2024,” by Daniel Durazo, Allianz Partners USA, one of the world’s largest insurance and assistance companies, and Lee Abbamonte, Allianz Travel Advisor.

More than 12 sessions will be held throughout the day like "The Impact of AI in the Travel Industry: Challenges and Opportunities," presented by the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW); "The Future of Air Travel: World-Class Airlines Meet World-Class Airports and How Public Art is Helping,” presented by Derek Utter, Chief Development Officer, Port Authority of New York & New Jersey; Gail Grimmett, Senior Vice President of Sustainability Performance and Strategic Partnerships, Delta Airlines; and Dorothy Davila, Director Creative Partnerships, Public Art Fund.

“Marketing to Diverse Audiences – Case Studies from New York State,” will be moderated by Ross Levi, Executive Director/Vice President, New York State Division of Tourism/I LOVE NY with panelists from I LOVE NY: David Contreras Turley, Director of Tourism Programs and Education; Sara Emmert, Senior Director of Tourism Policy and Operations; and Danae Jones-Persip, Senior Manager of Travel Trade and Programs.

Kicking off its first appearance at ITS2023, will be CIBT, the global leader in travel visas and US passports to 190 countries for 30 years. CIBT is the Official Visa Provider for ITS2023. The company will launch Entriva, its new passport and visa solution for consumers at ITS2023.  Show attendees are invited to visit Entriva’s booth for a demonstration of the online application process and learn more at Entriva’s education session, “Breathe Easy and Journey Better: How to Secure Your Visa for a Seamless and Stress-Free Trip,” presented by Silvia Medina.    

Culinary virtuoso and industry icon Chef David Burke, David Burke Hospitality, will appear as ITS2023’s Keynote Speaker delving into the captivating world of travel and tourism and exploring how food plays a pivotal role in shaping travel decisions in his “FOOD: an Inexorable Part of Travel” presentation.  Chef Burke’s illustrious career includes the operation of over 18 restaurants, catering, private events and the authorship of captivating cookbooks and television appearances. 

Rounding up the day will be “What Does the Future of LGBTQ+ Travel Look Like,” moderated by International Gay Lesbian Travel Association’s Renato Gagliardi with IGLTA speakers: Aurelio Giordano, Ace World Travel; Meg Ten Eyck, Every Queer; and Titus Negrescu, The Beekman. 

Saturday, October 28, will feature seminars for consumers to provide expert guidance for their research and decision-making process, making their travel experiences unforgettable. Featured sessions include "How To Plan a Life-Changing Vacation and One That Won’t Break The Bank" by renowned travel expert Pauline Frommer as well as "Hidden Gems of Travel" by Darley Newman.

Embratur – Brazilian Tourist Board, will feature a performance of Brazilian Culture by Dancers and Musicians, followed by “Cuba Travel: Still Hard to Reach…But so Rewarding When You Arrive.”

All ITS2023 attendees will have ready access to a diverse and exciting lineup of exhibitors to engage with industry leaders, discover new and exciting destinations, and explore innovative travel offerings. Major destination Pavilions will include representatives from the Caribbean, New York State, Africa, China, and New England, along with Royal Caribbean, highlighting the cruise line’s impressive fleet and itineraries.

About the International Travel Show (ITS2023) 

ITS2023, with presenting sponsor Travel + Leisure GO, is a world-class travel industry show where hundreds of destinations, tour operators, airlines and cruise lines can exhibit all three days and meet with a wide selection of travel buyers on each day, in one location in New York City. Travel buyers include meetings and event planners, travel advisors, travel media and frequent consumer travelers who will also be able to attend targeted educational seminars. ITS2023 brings together leaders of the travel and tourism industry to address issues that are key to the future of travel and tourism, provide educational and informational seminars and serve as a platform for emerging solutions for the global travel and tourism marketplace. For more information, tickets, and media registration, visit www.NYInternationalTravelShow.com.

About TRAVEL + LEISURE GO 

TRAVEL + LEISURE GO is the must-have subscription travel club for adventure-seekers and savvy travelers. This members-only travel club provides exclusive travel deals, unforgettable experiences, and expert advice, all from the most trusted authority in travel. The club offers savings on resorts, hotels, car rentals, flights, cruises, activities and so much more. Start your journey at go.travelandleisure.com.