Travel professionals from throughout North America will gather in El Paso TX for the 21st Annual Spotlight on the Southwest Tourism Conference from April 28-30, 2019.  The theme for this year’s event is “Three Cultures, Two Countries, One Region” and will discuss the Native American, Mexican, and Cowboy Cultures that are prevalent in the region.  A panel of experts will be featured in the keynote address to expand upon this topic.  Delegates will leave the session with the “How To” formula on creating regional partnerships and suggested itineraries.

A pre-fam for tour operators will begin in Albuquerque on April 26 and in addition to Albuquerque will include Rio Rancho, Las Cruces, and Ruidoso.  The fam will conclude in El Paso on the 28th in time for the Opening Reception for the conference.

Spotlight on the Southwest is a tourism conference which combines educational seminars, networking functions, and a trade show.  Operators are primarily domestic (including Canada) and range from small operations to large receptive companies (and everything in between).  The ratio of suppliers to operators is never more than 2 to 1.  Spotlight is casual and intimate and is not just about networking – but about building mutually successful business relationships.  New tour itineraries to off-the-beaten-path destinations are highlighted, using the closest Southwestern gateway cities as arrival and departure points.

“I’m from a small town, off-the-beaten-path and Spotlight is a great opportunity,” comments Chris Reid from the Pinal County Historical Museum in Florence AZ.    “I have attended three Spotlights and it is one of my favorite annual conferences.  It is great for developing relationships as I have made so many good business contacts and friends over the years.”

Christine Tripod, from Tripod Tours in California adds, “Tour operators have the opportunity to meet DMO’s and hotels that are truly hidden gems  They are boot-on-the-ground people who really want our business.”

For more information and both supplier or buyer registration information, please contact sue@freespiritvacations or call 480-926-5547.