Go International
February 6-7, 2024
Expanding Native Cultural Tourism Globally
Successful Engagement in the International Travel and Trade Markets
AIANTA offers the annual two-day Go International training conference, designed to introduce the international market to Tribes, Tribal businesses, and Native Hawaiian businesses and support participants to identify their tourism product(s) for pricing, packaging, and selling to markets overseas.
Tribal tourism professionals, industry representatives and entrepreneurs gather to:
- Hear from expert speakers from throughout the national and international tourism industry
- Connect and network with one another around shared vision and goals for business, Indian Country and tourism development
- Advance and develop their businesses, careers and tourism ventures
- Gain an understanding of what is needed and how to participate in international markets
Why Attend Go International?
Expert speakers and hands-on presentations showcase how to build itineraries, how to attract domestic and international group travelers and how to work with global tour operators.
Identify your market readiness, prepare your destinations and experiences for the international visitors, and assure quality relationships with international tour operators and media to advance your products globally.
Why Sponsor Go International?
As a sponsor of the 8th Annual Go International, you will have the opportunity to promote your organization throughout the event. Your organization will also be featured on the AIANTA.org website and all AIANTA social media platforms leading up to and throughout the event. You will also be allowed to provide brochures for placement in our attendee conference bags, along with signage throughout the conference venue. Please visit the Go International Sponsor page for more information.
Go International Agenda
8:30 AM – 8:45 AM Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation Sponsored Breakfast
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM Welcome & Introductions
9:00 AM – 10:15 AM AIANTA Member Market Readiness Self-Assessment
Sebastien Desnoyers-Picard, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) has developed a comprehensive self-assessment for considering the market readiness of your business. The self-assessment is a guided workbook equipping you with essential steps to enhance your Indigenous tourism business. Assess authenticity, safety, marketing, and group dynamics to elevate your competitiveness and success in the international marketplace. Honest self-reflection reveals strengths and areas for growth, ensuring alignment with industry standards. This session will inspire you to optimize your business, attract more visitors, and foster growth.
10:15AM – 10:30 AM Break
10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Navigating the Tourism Ecosystem: Understanding Industry Dynamics and Global Engagement
Nate Huff, Tourism Exchange USA and Lancing Adams, New Mexico Tourism Department
Delve into the intricate components of the tourism industry, exploring the roles of tourists, suppliers, intermediaries, and destinations. Gain insights into the complex interactions shaping the tourism industry’s success and sustainability. Discover how a holistic understanding of this ecosystem can guide decision-making, marketing strategies, and sustainable practices for long-term growth.
1:15 PM – 2:30 PM International Growth: Optimizing Relationships with Inbound Tour Operators
Lisa Simon, International Inbound Travel Association and Crystal Van Kull Rocky Mountain Holiday Tours
Join industry experts to dive into working with the international inbound travel trade, including strategies for groups, FIT (Foreign Independent Travelers), and contract negotiations with Inbound Tour Operators and International Tour Operators. Learn practical approaches to maximize revenue, build successful partnerships, and navigate the complexities of beneficial structures in the international tourism industry.
2:45 PM – 4:00 PM Ensuring Quality Representation through Communications, Online Presence, and Ease of Doing Business
Indy Vallejos, US Commercial Services and Bruce Rettig, Charter Advertising/Design, Inc.
Explore strategies for ensuring accessible and responsive contact information, crafting websites with quality images and comprehensive tour options, managing customer reviews, prioritizing safety, and offering valuable tips for visitors. Additionally, delve into the importance of permits, effective signage for arrivals, and the implementation of multilingual services to enhance the overall visitor experience.
4:15 p.m.
Wrap Up
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM Breakfast On Your Own
9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Global Reach Strategies: Digital Assets, FAM Tours, and Travel Tradeshows
Chris Ellis, Brand USA and Kate Anderson, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Have you considered the intricacies of strategic international outreach? Gain insights into the technical nuances of Digital Asset Management, examining its pivotal role in shaping a compelling global destination narrative and optimizing online visibility. Explore the operational details of FAM Tours, unraveling how these immersive experiences strategically build relationships with industry professionals. Additionally, analyze the tactical aspects of Travel Tradeshows, focusing on effective networking, destination showcasing, and collaborative frameworks for a robust global positioning strategy. Uncover the underpinnings of these key elements to amplify international presence and competitiveness in the dynamic tourism landscape.
10:30 AM – 11:45 AM Tourism Collaboration: Crafting Itineraries, Packages, and Marketing with DMOs and Intertribal Collaborations
Kate Anderson, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and Sherry Rupert, AIANTA
Explore practical strategies for collaboration between Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and Native enterprises in the tourism industry. This session focuses on creating efficient itineraries, attractive packages, and effective marketing initiatives through impactful partnerships. Learn how to strategically develop travel packages and leverage strengths in marketing to achieve mutual benefits. Join us for insights into crafting authentic and impactful journeys that contribute to the success of Indigenous communities.
11:45 AM – 1:15 PM Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Lunch
1:15 PM – 2:30 PM The Art and Impact of Dynamic Tourism Marketing
Florian Herrmann, Herrmann Global
Unlock the secrets of successful tourism marketing with Herrmann Global, the trailblazing firm that brings a fresh perspective to the world of travel and adventure. Join us for an engaging session as we explore the value and importance of dynamic marketing strategies in the ever-evolving landscape of Indigenous tourism.
2:45 PM – 4:00 PM Cultivating Authenticity: Elevating Experiences for Global Impact
Emily Edenshaw, Alaska Native Heritage Center
Identify your unique aspects that resonate with international guests by amplifying authenticity at your destination or experience. Explore workforce development strategies to ensure your team embodies cultural values for exceptional customer service. Dive into a transformative session where authenticity becomes a powerful force, creating memorable experiences that resonate globally.
4:15 p.m.
Closing
More Information
For more information, please contact Ciarra Greene, Visitor Outreach Manager at cgreene@aianta.org or call 505-724-3592
AIANTA Travel Trade Manual
Meet Our Go International Sponsors