America Works in the northwest

America Works in the northwest

Undaunted, and perhaps even motivated by recent events, ABTA northwest is arranging a US educational workshop, “America Works”, at the Atlantic Suite, Manchester Airport timed for Thanksgiving Day on November 22.

Twenty two representatives from state tourism offices, tour operators, airlines, hotels and car-hire companies will be meeting key agency staff from the northwest region.

Leading the participants will be the Visit USA Association, which is investing in a major new travel agents’ training programme in CD-ROM format. Geoff Rowcliffe, the association’s board member responsible for training, will be urging agents to avoid being caught out as he believes now is the time for agents to prepare their staff to be ready to meet the eventual upturn.

We in the northwest feel this is a positive contribution towards the regeneration of tourism to the US, building on the historic links between our countries.

An anticipated 150 agents from across the region will have the opportunity to update themselves on the US tourism market and therefore be in a position to give the latest information on both holiday and business trips to the US. The evening will be rounded off with a hoe down and line dancing.

Kristina Hulme, event organiser, ABTA northwest