ASTA Offers Education at IDE 2010 in Turkey

Published on: October 23, 2009

Travel agents attending ASTA's next International Destination Expo (IDE) in Istanbul, April 19 to 22, will have numerous education sessions from which to choose, all focusing on the many aspects of tourism in Turkey and its neighboring countries, and providing much-needed knowledge and strategies agents can use to positively impact their bottom lines. To date, the following educational sessions have been scheduled:

“Turkey, the Cradle of Civilization: A Walk Through 10,000 Years of History,” presented by Claudette Covey, courtesy of the Turkish Ministry of Tourism. Participants can become certified to sell Turkey, a country housing the treasures of 13 consecutive civilizations, and a history spanning 10,000 years. Turkey travel expert Claudette Covey will share her extensive knowledge of the country's long history and provide practical information on how you can become a Turkey travel specialist with comprehensive sales and marketing strategies that unveil new and innovative ways to sell this fascinating country.

“A Turkish Culinary Adventure: History, Ingredients, & Tastes of Turkey's Exotic Cuisine,” presented by Engin Akin, courtesy of Tour de Forks. Culinary tourism is one of the fastest growing travel trends and a whole new way to discover a destination, its history, culture, traditions and people. Akin, a world-renowned authority on Turkish cuisine, will share her vast knowledge and passion for the foods of her homeland; from the simple rustic food of the countryside, to the sophisticated traditions of the Ottoman palace kitchens.

“In the Footsteps of Paul and the Seven Churches of Revelation,” presented by Ronen Paldi, courtesy of Ya'lla Tours USA. Faith-based travel is a steadily growing market, and Turkey is one of the top destinations for Christian pilgrimages and Jewish heritage trips. Christian itineraries in Turkey will be discussed, as well as the process, challenges and opportunities of organizing church groups. Ya'lla recently produced 20-minute DVD on the Footsteps of Paul in Turkey and each seminar participant will receive a free copy of the video.

“Turkey and Beyond: Customized Groups and FITs,” presented by Koray Edemen, courtesy of Key Tours. This seminar will discuss how to expand and combine programs to and from Turkey with neighboring countries, and provide an orientation and highlights of destinations such as Greece, Egypt, Israel and Jordan. Suggestions about how to build customized FITs and group programs, as well as examples of creative ideas and specialized programs such as religious and historical tours will be provided.

“Turkey, the Unknown Corner of Europe,” presented by Ronen Paldi, courtesy of Ya'lla Tours USA. This seminar will address the unique appeal of Turkey by looking at some innovative programs developed by Ya'lla Tours. One such program, Ultimate Turkey, is an upscale tour, privately escorted in a deluxe mini-van with accommodations in Ottoman houses -- a blend of modern luxury and the sumptuous spaces of a rich and influential past. Attendees will learn about eastern Turkey, a little-known region guaranteed to impress more sophisticated, experienced travelers with its exotic frontier quality.

“Understanding and Selling Turkey, A Fascinating Growth Destination,” presented by Engin Kadaster, courtesy of Turkey at Its Best. This session provides an overview of the most popular regions of Turkey and ideas on how agents can effectively and successfully sell tours and shore excursions to this unique destination. It will provide insights to increasing profitability by developing special interest and private tours to Turkey.

“Turkey for Your Best Clients: Creating the Perfect Custom Itinerary,” presented by Mary Bai, courtesy of CTC Turkey. Learn about special tour components that sophisticated travelers may appreciate such as wine tastings, gourmet restaurants, Christian or Jewish heritage experiences, home-hosted lunches, cooking classes, specialist guides, and getting clients off the beaten path. Included are suggested itineraries, as well as accommodation and transportation options in Turkey. Attendees will receive tips on how to keep prices down while creating the trip of a lifetime.

“Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land,” moderated by Kevin Wright, president of the World Religious Travel Association. Panelists will include leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern Destinations. Travel agents will discover how to develop a thriving and diverse faith-based travel program centered on the great religious itineraries stretching across these ancient and biblically-rich lands such as Turkey, Armenia, Greece, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, and much more. Attendees will return home equipped with the much-needed knowledge and strategies to immediately impact their faith-based travel program, no matter whether they are new to religious tourism or a long-term expert.

Qualified travel agents and journalists who register to attend IDE will also receive free accommodation for the four nights of the conference, April 19 to 22, in Istanbul. Visit ASTA.org/expo">www.ASTA.org/expo to register for IDE and see which hotels are available. For more information or to register, visit ASTA.org/events">www.ASTA.org/events.