Post-show Recap: Record Number of Destination Organizations Gather in Tampa for DI Convention
August 7, 2024
Despite some threats to boycott the Florida location due to politics, destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), and tourism board leaders came out in record numbers to attend the Destinations International (DI) 2024 Annual Convention in Tampa. Held July 16-18 at two connected Marriott hotels near the Tampa Convention Center, the event attracted nearly 2,000 participants, including more than 750 international delegates from more than 30 countries.
“We had a record-breaking Annual Convention in Tampa this year and based on our guest feedback we couldn’t be more pleased by the results,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. “We’re deeply grateful to Visit Tampa Bay president & CEO Santiago Corrada and his outstanding team for their warm hospitality, partnership, and hard work to make this year’s convention an unforgettable experience.”
The TSNN and Connect Marketplace teams were on the ground in attendance to find out what’s trending in business and leisure travel from the CVB perspective. Here are 12 highlights from the event for the destinations that host meetings, events, conventions, and trade shows around the globe.
Welcome by the Tampa Mayor. At the opening session, participants were welcomed by Visit Tampa Bay president & CEO Santiago Corrado and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. A detailed case study is being prepared with details on DI’s initiatives to give back to the city and an estimate of the convention’s economic impact on the local Tampa community. Stay tuned.
Education. Attendees had the opportunity to attend more than three dozen breakout sessions on topics ranging from talent retention and succession planning to social inclusion and artificial intelligence. The Connect Marketplace team moderated one session, “You Asked … Now the experts will answer!” and TSNN’s Danica Tormohlen presented a 15-minute talk on Trade Show Trends.
Industry recognition. During a ceremony on the main stage, awards were presented to members of the travel and hospitality industry who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and promise towards the continued success of destination marketing worldwide. Included were 68 industry leaders receiving CDME certification, the highest individual educational achievement in the industry.
Next-gen hospitality professionals. Scholarship recipients attended and were recognized on the main stage. Nine college students received HBCU scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Emerging leaders honored. A group of emerging young leaders were selected for the 2024 30 Under 30 class.
DI Hall of Fame. In 2024, DI inducted the five recipients into its Hall of Fame, including William “Bill” Talbert, CDME, Former President & CEO, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (pictured above); Ted Levine, Founder & Former Chairman, Development Counsellors International (DCI); Dale Lockett, Former President & CEO, Visit Bastrop and Visit Albuquerque; Dan Lincoln, CTA, Former President & CEO, Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau; Karen Williams, Former President & CEO, Louisville Tourism.
Spirit Award. The DI Foundation Spirit of Hospitality Award was awarded to Adam Sacks, Founder & President, Tourism Economics.
Resources for CVBs. Several launches were announced during the event, including:
- Destinations International and TravelAbility Launched the “Accessibility Playbook” (pictured) to help destinations and travel businesses improve their accessibility and inclusion initiatives.
- Destinations International launched the Destination Effect Advocacy Awareness Campaign and Website to foster better understanding of the important role and impact of destination organizations in their communities.
- Miles Partnership and Destinations International launched the first industry-led, evidence-based framework for destination stewardship.
Change in leadership. During the convention, DI and the Destinations International Foundation held elections and approved their incoming boards, trustees and officers for 2024-2025. Scott White, president & CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs, will serve as Chair of Destinations International, and Amir Eylon, president & CEO of Longwoods International, will serve as Chair of the Destinations International Foundation.
Experiences in Tampa. Located a few blocks from the headquarters hotels, the Sparkman Wharf hosted the opening reception, which ended with a spectacular drone show over the water (see lead image). Known for its history, Ybor City hosted the closing party that featured a set by the DI house band.
Tribute to Brand USA’s Chris Thompson. After 12 years at BrandUSA, Thompson is retiring, and his advocacy efforts were recognized by his peers.
Next year's dates and location announced. The 2025 DI Annual Convention will take place in Chicago, Illinois, July 9-11, 2025.
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Partner Voices
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