This accolade is awarded to destination marketing organizations that have engaged with Virtuoso’s network globally, as voted on by its more than 16,000 advisors. Only a very small fraction of the network’s 1,700 partners were recognized at Virtuoso Travel Week, making this award a truly special recognition for Visit California.
“California’s unparalleled luxury is refined, authentic, exclusive, and experiential,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “Participating in events like Virtuoso Travel Week allows us to share those experiences with key partners. Being recognized by Virtuoso as a global leader is an incredible honor.”
Visit California’s partnership with Virtuoso is a part of the destination marketing organization’s expanded luxury strategy, The Golden State of Luxury. California offers a unique style of luxury, one that is tied to its impressive roster of high-end travel experiences, distinct lifestyle and brand.
“Visit California demonstrates a superior commitment to product excellence, expert knowledge and outstanding client service, all qualities highly valued by this network,” said Albert Herrera, senior vice president, Global Product Partnerships for Virtuoso. “This award places Visit California in a very exclusive category, as Virtuoso’s most celebrated partners are recognized as leaders within the industry. Their contributions and close relationships with our advisors enable Virtuoso to maintain its status as the world’s most exceptional luxury and experiential travel network.”
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About Visit California
Visit California is a nonprofit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs – in partnership with the state’s travel industry – that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. According to Visit California, spending by travelers totaled $126.3 billion in 2016 in California, generating 1.1 million jobs in the state and $10.3 billion in state and local tax revenues. For more information about Visit California, go to www.visitcalifornia.com. For story ideas, media information, downloadable images, video and more, go to www.media.visitcalifornia.com.
About Virtuoso
Virtuoso® is the leading international travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 800 travel agency partners with more than 16,000 elite travel advisors in over 45 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with 1,700 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. More than (U.S.) $21.2 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.
Lindsey Guinn
International Public Relations Manager
lguinn@visitcalifornia.com
916-233-0303