U.S. Virgin Islands to Host Two Industry Conferences

Dates have been announced for two important industry events which will take place in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 2009. The annual U.S. Virgin Islands Destination Symposium and the Caribbean Hotels Retreat are both scheduled to convene on St. Thomas later this year.

The 16th Destination Symposium, slated for June 15 to 19, brings together tour operators, travel media, sponsors, and public and private sector industry partners to network and discuss partnerships.

It is also an opportunity for the Department of Tourism and the Hotel & Tourism Association to review last year’s initiatives and unveil plans for the year ahead. While the majority of the conference is on St. Thomas, the latter days are spent exploring St. Croix and meeting with the islands’ travel partners.

Later in the year, St. Thomas will welcome small hoteliers for the Caribbean Hotels Retreat sponsored by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association. This event, by small hoteliers for small hoteliers, is scheduled for Sept. 29 to Oct. 2 at the Frenchman’s Reef Marriott.

Seminars and round table discussions will address areas to help smaller properties create more focused marketing initiatives and utilize technology to remain competitive. Another component of the retreat is a trade show for allied members who serve the small hotels.