May 28, 2009 | By: Ruthanne Terrero | LuxuryTravelAdvisor
Virtuoso raised a rallying cry of support last night at the St. Regis hotel in New York, where it hosted a trade show for theMexico Tourism Board’s New York office and 20 Mexico suppliers who are part of the Virtuoso network. In attendance were member agencies from the New York area.
The event, which was in a “sell-out,” mode, welcomed 80 top member agents from the New York area.
The timing of the event came just after the recent lifting of the U.S. travel health alert to Mexico. Following that act, Mexico hotels and tour operators have released a flood of great deals to lure travelers back.
The message of the evening, according to Mariana Pedrero, director of the MTB in New York, was that despite several difficult weeks, “Mexico is open for business and we welcome you and your clients to visit our historic, unique and relaxing destinations.”
Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso, noted his especial fondness for the country, citing the fact that he was born in Mexico City. “Luxury travel may only represent a small percentage of the tourism that comes to Mexico, but it’s an extremely important one because these travelers are trendsetters, influencers and opinion leaders. Luxury travelers seek out the less traditional aspects of an area and want to experience the local culture, and they see value in giving back to the region. The magnitude of what’s happened in Mexico over the last five years n terms of luxury product is unique and exactly the type of environment that attracts Virtuoso clientele.”
Nathan Devore of Rich Worldwide Travel, told Luxury Travel Advisor that his firm was reaching out to its clients about the fantastic deals that are available in Mexico right now. “It’s a great time to go,” he said.
Royal Hideaway Playacar, for example, has an agent booking bonus in place and is offering travelers the fourth night free through December 24. The resort just launched a new chef’s table experience as well.
http://www.travelagentcentral.com/luxuryta/mexico/virtuoso-helps-mexico-shine-812
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