Jan. 26, 2009

Dear NTA Members,

NTA has been very focused on building bridges in the industry to bring more business to you through alliances and collaboration. In the past year, we have developed strategic partnerships with the World Religious Travel Association, Travel Professionals of Color, the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, Destination Marketing Association International, and the United Motorcoach Association. Today, I would like to let you know about a new opportunity your association is exploring that could mean even more business for you.

NTA and long-time partner the United Motorcoach Association are exploring the possibility of co-locating our annual conferences — the UMA Motorcoach Expo and the NTA Annual Convention.

We know that the motorcoach business is a big part of many of your businesses and we want to provide even greater access to these important partners. UMA is made up of more than 1,100 members located across North America, with more than 850 charter and tour bus operator members who provide transportation services in all 50 states, Canada and Mexico.

During this stressed economic climate, it makes sense to explore this co-location, because it will save money and bring you better value and better business. Just as you will have access to faith-based travel partners when NTA begins co-locating with the WRTA in Reno this fall, you could have access to hundreds of new motorcoach operators if NTA and UMA meet at the same time. NTA believes the fewer trips you have to make to reach your target markets, the better. As NTA and UMA explore this opportunity, we anticipate the first combined conference would take place in the next three to five years.

As always, NTA welcomes your feedback. I hope that you will contact me anytime with questions, suggestions, concerns (or praises!). You can reach me on the Chairman’s Hotline at 502.682.6521 or at michele@western-leisure.com.

Sincerely,

Michele Michalewicz, CTP
NTA Chairman and CEO

This message is being sent from NTA Headquarters on behalf of NTA Chairman and CEO Michele Michalewicz, CTP. Responses will come to headquarters and be forwarded to the chairman and CEO. Those wishing to contact Michele directly should e-mail michele@western-leisure.com.