The appointments-based show, now in its third year, will take place in London on June 6-8 and is organised by the Latin American Travel Association (Lata). Agents are also being given the chance to meet with suppliers for the first time at this year’s show.
Lata president Byron Shirto said: “We started involving travel agents last year with our seminar programme. This year, we will be involving agents in our appointment-based system with suppliers. Agents mostly book with tour operators, but agents who are interested in speaking directly to the suppliers can register.”
Last year’s event attracted 120 suppliers, including airlines, hotels, cruise operators, tourist boards and train companies, as well as 360 buyers – mostly tour operators – from around the UK and Europe.
“This year’s show will remain at 120 exhibitors and we have sold out already,” added Shirto. “We hope to have at least 400 buyers, with an increased number from Europe, although most will be from the UK. We are way ahead of last year in terms of buyer participation.”
The event is run on a “by invitation” basis with those interested in attending registering on the ELA website. Lata will then review applications before confirming places.
The show uses a matchmaking process to organise 20-minute appointments. There will also be a programme of “Uncover and Discover” seminars and evening networking events. Three seminars will be held each day looking at digital, destinations and travel trends.
“It’s about fostering relationships between overseas suppliers and tour operators to promote travel to Latin America,” said Shirto.
Tourist board exhibitors include Ecuador, Mexico, El Salvador, Peru and Chile, while airlines such as Aeromexico, Air Europa, Avianca, Latam and United will also attend.
Air Europa will host the ELA opening party on Monday (June 6) at a new venue close to the show. Lata’s Achievement Awards, which recognise members for their “excellence in travel”, will take place on Wednesday evening (June 8).
Experience Latin America will be held at CCT Venues Plus-Bank Street in Canary Wharf.
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