Bosporus Island is Setting for ASTA International Destination Expo Welcome Event
Contact: Kristina Rundquist/Laura Gajewskipr@asta.org
Alexandria, Va. - Feb. 8, 2010- Attendees of ASTA's International Destination Expo (April 19-22, Istanbul) will kick off the event with a casual reception on the Bosporus on the evening of April 19. The following evening, attendees will celebrate the official kick-off with a sit-down dinner held at the 1,700-year old Binbirdirek Cistern, the second-largest covered Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. Both events are courtesy of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
"There is no better way to become an expert in a destination than by experiencing everything it has to offer. The Suada represents one of Istanbul's most popular destinations and offers a spectacular setting from which to view Istanbul by night, while the setting of the ancient Binbirdirek Cistern embodies Istanbul's rich history," said ASTA President and CEO Chris Russo. "They will both be evenings to remember."
Suada Istanbul is nestled between Asia and Europe, located at Kuruçeşme. It is a private island and home to three restaurants, a beach club and nightclub. It is the only island on the Bosporus and features 360-degree panoramic views of both continents and both sides of Istanbul. Guests will begin their evening with a leisurely 30-minute Bosporus cruise before arriving in Suada. There, they will be greeted by live music, spectacular views of Istanbul as well as a broad sampling of the cuisine that has made Turkey famous.
The following evening, guests will find themselves in the elegant setting of the Binbirdirek Cistern featuring 212 large stone columns throughout. Attendees will again experience the best of Turkish cuisine and music as they kick off the 2010 International Destination Expo.
Qualified travel agents and journalists who register by Feb. 26 to attend IDE are eligible to receive free accommodation for the four nights of the conference, April 19-22, in Istanbul. Check www.ASTA.org/ide to register for IDE and see which hotels are available. For more information or to register, go to ASTA.org/events.ABOUT ASTA
ASTA's (American Society of Travel Agents) mission is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable, growing and a rewarding place to work, invest and do business.
