There is something for everyone - literally. Symposia are all about education and networking in new ways to unite the food/beverage and travel industries - two sectors that formerly were merely cousins on the hospitality industry family tree.

ABOUT THE 2005 CONFERENCE:
"The education sessions and networking were first class. Any destination that relies on food and drink as a part of their overall visitor's experience would benefit from the education offered at the conference."

— Doug Price, Senior Vice President of Professional Development, Destination Marketing Association International (formerly International Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus), Washington, DC, USA

ABOUT THE 2004 CONFERENCE:
"For me, this conference forged new horizontal and vertical partnerships in a variety of industries and sectors. Lodging talking to cooking schools, wineries talking to lodging, cheesemakers talking to tour operators, local water bottlers talking to transportation companies, the list goes on and on. I've never seen this kind of matchmaking in my 25 years in the travel business."

— Melody Johnson, Grayline Tours/Coach USA
Portland, Oregon, USA

While the conference is oriented towards professionals, anyone is welcome to attend. Those who benefit from conference attendance are the same individuals and professionals who benefit from membership with the association. Read a list of benefits listed by industry type and job function.