We’re bringing you a selection of NEW suppliers from Canada and the USA for our dedicated Selling Travel Connect: North America in September.
Meet NEW suppliers including: Meet Boston, Huntington Beach, Travel Nevada, Rocky Mountaineer, Mississippi, Tennessee as well as Sun Peaks, Visit Pittsburgh, Delta Airlines, Jetblue, Made, United Airlines, West Jet, Visit Florida, Expedia, New Jersey Division of Tourism, Virgin Hotels Collection and United Airlines.
The evening will consist of catching up over refreshments, speed dating with suppliers, a panel Q&A and a prize draw with some amazing prizes up for grabs.
LONDON – SEPTEMBER 23
Caledonian Club
9 Halkin St,
London SW1X 7DR
6pm – 9pm
LEEDS – SEPTEMBER 25
Howard Assembly Rooms
32 New Briggate,
Leeds LS1 6NU
6pm – 9pm
EDINBURGH – SEPTEMBER 26
Doubletree Edinburgh City Centre
Skybar
34 Bread St,
Edinburgh EH3 9AF
6pm – 9pm
We look forward to seeing you there!
Order of evening
5.30 – 6.00pm
Supplier set-up
6.00 – 7.00pm
Agents arrive/networking with F&B service
7.00 – 8.30pm
Agent speed-dating
8.30 – 8.40pm
Break
8.40 – 9.00pm
Q&A with suppliers
9.00 – 9.15pm
Prize draws
9.15pm
Finish
Meet the exhibitors
Cincy Region (Edinburgh only)
Cincy Region is where Ohio’s Midwest friendliness and Kentucky’s Southern charm are connected by the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge. It’s where urban art and street food meet green spaces and waterways. With a direct British Airways flight to the region, here are some great reasons to recommend a visit.
Did you know that Newport in Northern Kentucky was the original Sin City…and that Celebrities such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin were regular visitors during the gambling boom, not to mention gangster Al Capone?
You might also be surprised to learn the Cincy Region has the biggest Oktoberfest outside of Munich, celebrated today in the exciting Over The Rhine district.
Year-round, visitors can tour National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to learn how escaped slaves were smuggled to “free states” via a secret network of safe houses.
The Cincinnati Art Museum includes works by Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso and there are giant murals from today’s cutting-edge artists throughout Downtown, while designs in neon dazzle at the American Sign Museum.
And finally, the region’s booming bourbon bar and distillery scene earned the Northern Kentucky and Cincy region a spot on Conde Nast Traveler’s list of the Best Places to Go in the USA in 2023.
Contact: Viara Challier – Cincy Region UK & Ireland (main presenter) viara.challier@btinternet.com
Andrew Challier – Cincy Region UK & Ireland andrew.challier@btinternet.com
Delta Air Lines (London & Edinburgh only)
DELTA AIR LINES – NO ONE BETTER CONNECTS THE WORLD
Delta is the U.S. global airline leader in safety, innovation, reliability and customer experience, dedicated to ensuring that the future of travel is connected, personalized and enjoyable.
In the U.K. Delta partners with Virgin Atlantic to offer customers an extensive network with up to 39 daily flights to the U.S. this summer.
On board, there’s a choice of cabin for every travel style. Delta’s fleet of Boeing 767 and Airbus A330 aircraft on U.K. flights features a choice of up to four cabin experiences including Delta One® suite and Delta Premium Select.
Contact: Kate Devereux, Senior Account Manager katie.devereux@delta.com
Expedia TAAP (Leeds & Edinburgh only)
Expedia TAAP offers agents a wide breadth of quality travel products, competitive rates and impressive availability. The ready-built platform is optimized to drive ease of use and deliver a world-class booking experience. Expedia TAAP’s industry-leading technology, personalized service and access to unique inventory and planning tools empower agents and agency managers to grow their business.
Contact: Leeds – Jade McAssey, Business Development Executive jade.mcassey@discovertheworld.com
Edinburgh – Dietriche Mazarello, Senior Sales Executive Dietriche.mazarello@discovertheworld.com
JetBlue Airways (London only)
Jet(Blue) across the pond.
Our transatlantic flights take our award-winning service and comfort to new heights. Whether you choose the most legroom in coach¹, or your own Mint Suite® or Mint Studio®, you’re in for a jaw-dropping, pond-hopping experience like no other, with unlimited high-speed wi-fi² and seatback entertainment, curated menus of fresh seasonal fare and your choice of beer, wine and liquor (21+)—all on the house (or, um, plane).
Wi-fi coverage area may vary.
Based on baseline seat pitch of transatlantic aircraft.
Ready to book? We offer daily year-round service to/from London, Paris and Amsterdam on our A321LR. We also offer seasonal service to/from Dublin and Edinburgh. Dublin, Edinburgh and some flights between Boston and London are on our A321neo with Mint.
Contact: Maris Kuklis, Senior Sales Manager maris.kuklis@flyjetblue.eu
made Tourism Marketing (London only)
made Tourism Marketing is a full-service representation company specialising in the travel, tourism and leisure industries. We offer advice on competitive FIT and group rates for all Broadway shows, US attractions and New York restaurants. We can advise on the entire booking process. As well as organising monthly familiarisation trips, information is sent out to travel agents via brochures, newsletters, mailings and emails, keeping you up to date with the latest offerings on Broadway and beyond.
Contact: Jonathan Mountford Managing Director jonathan@made.travel
ticketpipe.co.uk | broadwayinbound.com
Meet Boston (London only)
Meet Boston is the tourism office for the beautiful city of Boston, Massachusetts, a city that welcomes all. We’ll show you anything from where to have a sports filled trip, a girl’s night out, a romantic date night, a family adventure to an experience of a lifetime; where to find green spaces, the historical hotspots, arts and culture and even whale-watching, along with shopping, great restaurants, hotels, concerts and sporting events (including the FIFA World Cup 2026) and everything your clients would want from a city-break holiday or as the amazing starting point and headline opening act to a New England itinerary. We cater to families, foodies, solo travellers, event planners, and Marathon runners. There are a million reasons to love Boston, meet the one organization that can introduce you to them all: Meet Boston.
Contact: Daniel Robinson Daniel@ttmworld.co.uk
New Jersey Division of Tourism
(Leeds & Edinburgh only)
GEC TR are the UK representatives of New Jersey Tourism. New Jersey is your gateway into Manhattan (Newark Liberty International Airport), whilst Philadelphia International Airport is the gateway to the Jersey Shore including Atlantic City, Cape May and Wildwood.
Enjoy amazing views of Manhattan by staying across from the Hudson River in Jersey City, Hoboken or Weehawken, explore ‘American Dream’, the retailtainment destination of New Jersey or take in an American Football game or concert at MetLife Stadium the home of the New York Jets and New York Giants. If Ice Hockey is your passion, head over to the Prudential Center in Newark to see the New Jersey Devils.
New Jersey has so much to offer with over 130 miles of stunning coastline. The ‘Jersey Shore’ includes amazing seaside towns and resorts including Astbury Park, Long Beach Island, Wildwood, Cape May and off course the most famous Atlantic City.
From fun rides, funfairs and Six Flags Great Adventure (seasonal) to animal watching including dolphins and whales in Atlantic City and Cape May, there is something for all the family.
Contact: Julie Greenhill Julie@gectr.co.uk
Rocky Mountaineer (Leeds & Edinburgh only)
Rocky Mountaineer is a world-class train journey like no other. Join us onboard and discover where the call of the wild meets historic storytelling, regionally inspired cuisine, and a first-hand look at stunning scenery, all from the comfort of reclining plush seats. With four distinctive rail routes, including our new route in America’s Southwest, guests take on an adventure through spectacular landscapes and to iconic destinations. Whether you are sweeping past the chromatic deserts and red sandstone landscapes of Southwest USA or gliding through jewel-toned rivers and lush rainforests of Western Canada – a luxury train journey with Rocky Mountaineer is quite simply unforgettable.
Contact: Sarah Revell, Sales Manager, UK & Europe (Leeds) srevell@rockymountaineer.com
Hazel Mansell, Sales Manager, UK & Europe (Edinburgh) hmansell@rockymountaineer.com
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt (Leeds only)
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a completely new take on an observation deck. As well as the magnificent view of NYC, there’s five multi-sensory installations occupying the top three floors of Midtown Manhattan’s tallest skyscraper.
Designed by Kenzo Digital, floors 91 and 92 offer the experience Transcendence; as every surface is mirrored it allows the New York skyline to be reflected throughout the space. Affinity is a room full of floating orbs which at night change colour in tune with our light-show whilst Levitation, for the daring, offers two transparent ledges to step onto high above Madison Avenue. Our gallery area currently displays an art installation by the Japanese Artist Yayoi Kusama called Reflections, a multitude of sculptures covering the floor space designed to do just that – reflect. Unity is where we become one; through the very latest in technology, guests become part of the exhibition and can marvel as a 3D face capture is transformed into a cloud in a infinite cloudscape display on a giant screen. On the 93rd floor we have a café / bar with indoor and outdoor seating, serving light dishes as well as coffee & cocktails. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is the in-place to be and to be seen!
Book your clients’ tickets through your preferred tour operator or attraction ticket provider.
Contact: Angie Sloan, Sales & Marketing UK Director angie@sloansquared.co.uk
Sun Peaks (London Only)
Set amongst tree clad mountains, Sun Peaks is a resort community located in the heart of British Columbia, only a four-hour drive from Vancouver. It’s a year-round destination for guests in search of a welcoming, accessible, stress-free mountain experience.
The European style purpose-built village is pedestrian-only with 45+ locally-owned boutique shops and restaurants. Guests will also savour the relaxed atmosphere and friendly welcome, making them quickly feel at home.
In winter Sun Peaks offers award winning ski experiences as the second largest ski area in Canada. Spring, summer and fall offer guests a wide range of leisure activities, featuring lift-access alpine hiking, sightseeing and a downhill mountain bike park.
Visitors can also enjoy British Columbia’s highest golf course, Stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing and kayaking on one of the local lakes. Guided hiking tours among the wildflowers, horseback riding, yoga and more, round out the myriad of adventures awaiting guests. With activities and dining on offer just steps from the door of the lodging, even guests arriving for short stays, can still find time to explore and enjoy the village by simply sitting back and taking in the views and the fresh mountain air.
Contact: Dave Ashmore dave@ashmoremarketing.com
Tennessee Tourism (Leeds only)
Music is synonymous with Tennessee. Whether it’s the rock ‘n’ roll infused sounds from Memphis or the country twang of Nashville, Tennessee is a melting pot of sound and culture. From Graceland to the Grand OIe Opry via the Country Music Hall of Fame, there is plenty to salivate musical palates. For the explorer, East Tennessee is home to the Great Smoky Mountains, where adventurers can trek over gorgeous mountain cliffs, wonder at dazzling waterfalls, and bask in glorious colours of the scenery around them. Do not forget to experience a tour of Tennessee’s greatest export – Jack Daniels. Tennessee’s creative spirit is infused into every sip of Jack Daniel’s oak-barrel-aged amber gold and every bite of Memphis barbecue and Nashville hot chicken.
No matter the reason for your visit; whether searching for some relaxation, outdoor adventure, great music, or a history lesson – we have it all right here and that’s why “Tennessee Sounds Perfect”.
Contact: Jessica Jackson – Senior Account Manager jessica@ttmworld.co.uk
The State of Washington Tourism
(London only)
Welcome to stunning State of Washington, nestled in the Pacific Northwest. From majestic mountains to lush rainforests, picturesque beaches and breath-taking waterfalls, Washington offers an array of natural wonders that will captivate the heart. Whether seeking adventure in the great outdoors or craving the energy of metropolitan cities, Washington has something for everyone.
Embark on a whale-watching expedition in the San Juan Islands or hike to a serene glacial lake for an unforgettable experience. Coastal areas beckon with opportunities to dig for razor clams or bask in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Washington State is home to three national parks, Mount Rainier, North Cascades and Olympic, and more than 140 state parks, each offering its own unique allure.
Washington’s cities provide a perfect blend of urban excitement and cultural diversity. Seattle, our largest city, boasts a wealth of dining and entertainment options. Olympia, our state capital, exudes creativity, with a thriving music and arts community. Spokane, showcases the country’s largest urban waterfall from a gondola ride in the heart of downtown.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the ideal starting point for travel to the Pacific Northwest with more than 30 non-stop flights weekly from the UK and Ireland with trusted carriers like British Airways, Delta, Virgin Atlantic and Aer Lingus.
Contact: Brendan Croft – Travel Trade Account Director bcroft@blackdiamond.co.uk
Travel Nevada
Over 60 million acres to explore and plenty of space to be. Welcome to the heart of Nevada, where getting out there is all the fun. Untamed, unspoiled and gloriously rough around the edges. Nevada is a lot of things at the same time. Neon-buzzing boulevards and wide-open roads. Spectacular stage shows and star-studded skies. Gear up for golden-hour ghost towns, stunning parks and wildlands, and history-packed communities. Whether you’re a step-by-step traveller or a let’s-see-what-happens adventurer, surprises await in Sagebrush Saloons, Uncommon Overnighters, and epic road trips. With dozens of state parks, hundreds of hiking and biking trails, and thousands of natural landmarks to discover, things are about to get a little out there.
Contact: Charlotte Browning, Senior Trade Account Manager cbrowning@blackdiamond.co.uk
United Airlines (Leeds & Edinburgh only)
United Airlines flies 24 daily flights from Edinburgh and London Heathrow to seven U.S. cities including Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington D.C. with connections to over 270 destinations across the Americas.
Our departures from London Heathrow feature 6ft 6in lie-flat, all aisle access United Polaris℠ business class seats, kitted with Saks Fifth Avenue luxury bedding and skincare from Therabody. United has features, amenities, and products for every kind of traveller from basic and United Economy℠ to United Premium Plus℠ and our United Polaris℠ business class.
Contact: Brian Hughes – Account Manager brian.l.hughes@united.com
Virgin Hotels Collection
(London only)
Inspired by local trends, built for globe-trotters. Every Virgin Hotels is unique – designed to reflect the city it calls home, while still offering all the features, goodies and added extras that make up the Virgin way. So, pick a location, pack your bags, and get ready to leave feeling even better than when you arrived.
Chicago
The Skyline’s The Limit
Be blown away. Nestled amongst the famous Chicago skyline, in the Chicago Loop, our spacious chambers and bustling bars are the perfect base for exploring the Windy City.
Dallas
Bigger Is Better
They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and our chambers are no exception. Explore our art-inspired destination in the heart of the Dallas Design District and say ‘howdy’ to your best stay yet.
Edinburgh
A Royal Awakening
Just a cobblestone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle, our bespoke chambers and fab dining spots put a new spin on Old Town charm. Come and see for yourself why Edinburgh is consistently voted one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Nashville
Turn Up The Volume
Two-step inside our boutique pad in the heart of Nashville’s Music Row and discover Southern hospitality at its best. From spacious chambers to panoramic views, we’ll hit all the right notes.
New Orleans
For That Festive Feeling
Located in New Orleans’ lively Warehouse District, the Crescent City’s unique personality shines bright in every chamber, club and corner of our hotel. So, dip your brush in this creative melting pot of cultures and paint the town red.
New York
Take A Bite Of The Big Apple
Hungry for something new? Our New York pad is the perfect base for powerwalking down Wall Street, recreating scenes from Sex in the City or catching a show on Broadway – then resting your weary head in the best bed ever.
Las Vegas
Anything But A Gamble
Good times are guaranteed. Discover the freedom to do your thing, whatever that may be, in our lifestyle-focused chambers – where everyone is a winner.
Contact: Chilan Delsilva chilan.desilva@virginhotels.com
VISIT FLORIDA (Leeds only)
VISIT FLORIDA is a public-private partnership between the State of Florida and Florida’s tourism industry. The Sunshine State’s official tourism marketing organisation serves as the caretaker for the Florida holiday brand and has been inspiring and driving travel here for 28 years. What we don’t know about Florida isn’t worth knowing! Florida isn’t just a state. It’s a state of mind. It’s where you go to be more relaxed, more carefree, more open to connections, and more ready for fun. But it’s also a mindset you carry with you every day afterward, reminding you that your holiday self is your best self. Come and chat to us to learn how to inspire your clients to visit Florida and to continue to come back year after year.
Contact: Gill Standeven, Senior Account Executive gill@goshpr.co.uk
Visit Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is Surf City USA®
Here you’ll find 10 miles of wide open, pristine coastline dotted with surfers 365 days a year. With over a century of surf history and the most consistent waves on the West Coast, Huntington Beach is the only place that can truly be called Surf City USA®.
Discover stunning Pacific Ocean views, fresh California fare, and live entertainment throughout the destination. Enjoy the sprawling Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach or explore the suite-centric tower and rooftop at The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel. Right in the heart of downtown, find your hideaway at the Kimpton Shorebreak, or escape at the chic Paséa Hotel & Spa.
Thanks to an endless summer, Huntington Beach provides year-round outdoor activities with wellness in abundance. Visitors are encouraged to take a step back, relax into the sand with beach yoga, enjoy one of the four luxury spas at our resorts, or paddleboard on the calm waters of Huntington Harbour. For the more action-oriented, take a surf lesson with a former pro-surfer or grab a board and ride your own wave.
Huntington Beach is centrally located in Orange County, California between Los Angeles (45 mins away) and San Diego (1.5 hours away). Explore Southern California’s incredible sites and attractions including Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, and Angels Stadium.
Contact: Mark Meredith mark@rocketlondon.co.uk | Holly Pattison holly@rocketlondon.co.uk
Visit Mississippi (Leeds only)
Mississippi is the birthplace of America’s music, home of literary and artistic legends. The cradle of the Civil Rights movement, battleground of the Civil War, land of catfish and tamales. It is paradise for adventurers and centre stage for round-the-clock entertainment and year-round play.
For travellers and tourists around the world, the invitation is always open and there’s a place on every one of the front porches to find your true south in Mississippi. It might be in one of the true towns like Oxford, Greenwood or Canton that embody the heart and soul of true Southern culture in all its rich and varied expressions. Head for the bright lights on the horizon and take in the non-stop action, star studded entertainment and luxuries of one of the nation’s leading casino destinations at Tunica or the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Contact: Hannah Phipps hannah@ttmworld.co.uk
Visit Pittsburgh (London only)
Located in Western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh is home to an array of arts and cultural offerings with a buzzing downtown district and burgeoning food scene. Encompassing over 90 ethnically diverse neighbourhoods creating a vibrant urban mid-sized city attracting families, young Pittsburghers and well-travelled visitors alike. Birthplace of the most iconic American artist of the 20th century, Andy Warhol.
The existence of Pittsburgh is owned to its three rivers that run through the city – The Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio with over 446 bridges throughout the state. Known as ‘Hollywood of the East’ due to the number of blockbuster films shot in the city including award winning Fences, Super 8, The Avengers and The Dark Knight Rises. Mecca for sports fans, Pittsburgh is home to three professional sports teams – the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers, covering baseball, ice hockey and American Football.
Cultural destination for parks, galleries and museums including Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, Andy Warhol Museum, Mattress Factory and the Carnegie Science Centre. Pittsburgh cultural district is home to 10 theatres showcasing world renowned symphony orchestra, opera, dance and award-winning plays within the beautifully restored Benedum Centre of performing arts. A destination for all, Pittsburgh offers a number of cheap and free experiences from outdoor amenities to family attractions including hiking, biking and water sports. Once referred to as the ‘Smoky City’, it’s now considered America’s ‘Most Liveable City’ as it continues to rank among the top cities in the United Stated for green certified building space.
Contact: Will Hall – Senior Account Manager will@blackdiamond.co.uk
WestJet
WestJet Airlines Ltd. is a Canadian airline founded in 1996 and based out of Calgary AB. WestJet provides scheduled air services to over 100 destinations in Canada, the United States, Europe, Mexico the Caribbean, Korea, and Japan. WestJet is currently the second-largest Canadian air carrier. With its global hub in YYC, it acts as a gateway to adventure, connecting your clients to the Rocky Mountain, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Hawaii and more!
Each Summer WestJet operates from Edinburgh and Dublin to Calgary, Toronto and Halifax. We also offer flights from London Gatwick to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland & Labrador along with our year-round service from London Heathrow to Calgary. This winter WestJet has an increased schedule between London Heathrow and North America where your clients can clear US Preclearance in YYC Calgary before your onward journey to the States. WestJet Ski where your client’s receive one checked piece and ski gear is available via:
Aviate • Gold Medal • Faremine • Ski Independence • Inghams • Ski Safari • Stewart Travel • Tui Crystal Ski
For all your enquiries please email westjet@apg-ga.co.uk or call 0844 482 2361
Contact: Liz Langan Key Account Manager (London) liz.langan@apg-ga.co.uk
Viv Shenkin Key Account Manager Scotland
