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The American Society of Travel Agents and Your Ticket to their Global Convention

For over 80 years the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has been hosting premier events. With ASTA Global Convention (AGC) becoming one of the fastest growing, anyone who has attended will tell you that it’s three days of inspiration, education, and entertainment – guaranteed to leave attendees ready to grow their business.The event kicks off in San Diego in a few weeks and tickets are in high demand. But we figured it might help to give you a little more information about ASTA and what they’re all about. We asked Erika Richter, Communications Director at ASTA, a few questions about the organization and what to expect from the ASTA Global Convention in San Diego, August 27-29.

In a few sentences, what is ASTA all about?

ASTA represent 80 percent of all travel sold in the U.S. through the travel agency distribution channel. Together with hundreds of internationally based members in over 120 countries, we are the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry, and the traveling public. That’s why we’re headquartered in Washington, D.C.

When was ASTA founded? Tell us the story.

Our trade association is a legacy in many ways. ASTA’s history of travel industry advocacy traces back to its founding in 1931 when it launched with the mission to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism.

What aspect of the travel industry does ASTA focus on?

Our work encompasses every aspect of the travel experience. As an advocacy trade association, we promote and defend the travel agency community and the traveling public at all levels of government. We fight to ensure a level playing field and fair competition, which benefits the industry and the consumer. ASTA has the finest education and information resources available, so our members are able to provide the utmost in professional service to their clients. Only ASTA members subscribe to a 13-point code of ethics which stands for “Integrity in Travel.” This is the pledge our members stake their reputations on.  And through our aggressive public relations efforts, we strive to make the traveling public aware of the many benefits of using a travel advisor.

So, what’s going on at AGC this year?

Lots of Networking. This is where the best of the best in the industry convene. That’s why so many people flock to AGC because the quality of networking is superior. We have over 200 suppliers at our sold-out tradeshow! The educational sessions are also a big draw and there’s something new for everyone to learn.

Can you give us a few highlights?

  •  Global Travel Exchange, Sunday, August 27th – U.S. and international travel professionals come together for a globally-focused education and networking event.
  • The Cruise Line and Travel Agent Experience, Monday, August 28th – Exclusive interview with Arnold Donald, President & CEO of The Carnival Corporation and Peter Greenberg, Investigative Reporter and Producer.
  • The Entrepreneurial Spirit, Monday, August 28th – A “Shark Tank” style experience as we look at this year’s finalists – our aspiring entrepreneurs. Winner takes home $10,000!
  • Soaring Above the Glass Ceiling, Tuesday, August 29th – Moderated by Samantha Brown, an executive-level panel of women will talk about how they achieved success, overcame obstacles and managed the “glass ceiling”.
  • ASTA Party in the Park with the San Diego Padres, Tuesday, August 29th – Receive exclusive access to ballpark culinary favorites while networking and overlooking the San Diego skyline.

Any other information Travel Massive members should know about?

The ASTA Global Convention 2017 will take place in San Diego, California at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina on August 27-29th.

Plus, Travel Massive members receive $100 off the full conference registration price by using the discount code TRAVELMASSIVE during checkout. Space is limited so don’t wait! If you need assistance please email pr@asta.org.


Thank you to ASTA for supporting this week’s Travel Massive feature. Stay in touch with ASTA by following them on Travel Massive, Facebook, and Twitter.


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