Read the latest updates from Destination DC's tourism team
The Washington, DC Welcome and Special Agent Academy
The Washington, DC Welcome is a new hire training program that provides an introduction to DC as a tourist destination. You can incorporate the 10-minute Washington, DC Welcome visitor orientation video into new hire onboarding, and you can further your staff’s knowledge with the in-depth Special Agent Academy. Please make your HR managers aware of these free training resources. Now available in English and Spanish.
Congrats to recent graduates from the following members: Capitol Express Tours, National Museum of Women in the Arts, Roost White House, The People’s House and Traveler’s Aid.
Spotlight
Ontario Motorcoach Association (OMCA) Annual Marketplace (Nov. 3-5, Markham, ON, Canada)
Team Lead: Lindsay Hill
The group leisure sales team participated in the annual marketplace. Lindsay met with 41 Canadian group tour operators to discuss future business and promote new product.
National Tour Association (NTA) Travel Exchange (Nov. 9-11, Ottawa, Canada)
Team Lead: Lindsay Hill
This annual trade show consists of pre-scheduled appointments and educational opportunities. Lindsay’s 37 appointments with operators from the United States, Canada and Mexico will build relationships and promote DC’s group tour offerings.
Spain Market Activation and Sports Experience (Nov. 12-17, Madrid, Spain)
Team Leads: Theresa Belpusi & Patricia Najar
DDC heads to Spain to strengthen its partnership with travel trade and airline partners. The program includes a client event built around the excitement of a tailgate, bringing together tour operators, travel agencies and media; two training seminars in collaboration with Civitatis and TUI; meetings with United Airlines and Iberia, both operating direct flights to Washington, DC; and media interviews. The visit will conclude with a unique sports experience: hosting top tour operators at the Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins NFL game in Madrid, showcasing DC’s lively blend of sports, culture and memorable opportunities.
Winter Wonders Webinar (Nov. 13, Virtual)
Team Leads: Lindsay Hill & Georgia Lucas
Join the Visitor Experience team for winter seasonal highlights, including major events and key museum updates. The presentation includes an in-depth look at practical tips on accessibility and free training resources available to customer-facing teams. Register now to join.
East Coast USA FAM (Nov. 13-15, Washington, DC)
Team Leads: Bianca Corallo, Erika Jones & Frances Golla
As a result of the recent East Coast USA mission to Australia, DDC will welcome an Australian FAM of two travel agents and two tour operators. DDC will showcase the nation’s capital, alongside Philadelphia and Boston, our East Coast USA counterparts.
Interep Brazil Luxury FAM (Nov. 13-17, Washington, DC)
Team Leads: Patricia Najar, Erika Jones & Frances Golla
DDC is pleased to welcome top Virtuoso travel advisors and the CEO of Interep, one of Brazil’s largest tour operators. Virtuoso is the leading global network for luxury and experiential travel, while Interep has trained nearly 10,000 Brazilian agents on our destination. This visit will offer a unique chance to highlight the city’s finest and most exclusive experiences.
IATDG TourConnect (Nov. 17-20, Hanover, MD)
Team Leads: Lindsay Hill, Frances Golla, Georgia Lucas & Jennifer Porter
DDC will welcome the International Association of Tour Directors & Guides, hosting their annual conference at Maryland Live! Casino & Hotel. Activities will include a pre-FAM of DC sites, tour operator networking opportunities and a sponsor table throughout the conference. Lindsay will also participate in a panel on America250 and present at educational sessions.
Oct. Visitor Experience Stats
Publications distributed: 14,227
Online requests: 1,810
Calls: 148
Chatbot engagements: 435
What three major questions have visitors asked?
- Are the museums open during the government shutdown?
- Is the Washington Monument open during the government shutdown?
- What are some alternative itinerary options during the government shutdown?
Check out the full Destination DC Member News to learn more about what's going on this month.
