AAA Travel hosted its annual conference October 21-23 in Phoenix, Arizona. With a theme of “Futurescape: Convergence + Relevance,” the event focused on the forces shaping the future of the travel industry, from technological advancements to evolving consumer expectations. The conference featured notable speakers from across the travel industry, including Pete Rose, executive vice president, Kantar Consulting; Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line; Wayne Best, Visa’s chief economist; and futurist Chris Riddell, an expert on emerging trends in the connected world.
During the conference, AAA also presented leading travel industry suppliers with Partner of the Year awards in 14 categories. AAA says these awards recognize the partners’ commitment to providing the company’s travel agents and members with exemplary travel services in their respective product categories, and for marketing, member service and travel agency support. Additionally, two of AAA’s top-performing agents, Kelly Brock and Henry Dennis of AAA Carolinas, were honored with Travel Agent Superlative Awards.
2018 Partner of the Year Awards
- Ocean Cruise Partner of the Year: Princess Cruises
- River Cruise Partner of the Year: AmaWaterways
- Guided Tour Partner of the Year: Member Choice Vacations
- Independent Tour Partner of the Year: Rocky Mountaineer
- Lodging Partner of the Year: Best Western Hotels & Resorts
Best in Marketing:
- Cruise: AmaWaterways
- Tour: Rocky Mountaineer
- Lodging: Best Western Hotels & Resorts
Best in Member Service:
- Cruise: Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
- Tour: Insight Vacations
- Lodging: Best Western Hotels & Resorts
Best in Travel Agency Support:
- Cruise: Celebrity Cruises
- Tour: Alexander+Roberts
- Lodging: Marriott International
For more information, visit AAA.com
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