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Image courtesy Visit Greater Palm Springs
Timeline and Agenda
2026 Pre-Event Timeline
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June 1, 2025 — Registration opens for Go West Summit 2026- Las Vegas, Nevada.
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February 27, 2026 — Deadline to modify company profiles. Changes to your online profile made after this date may not be reflected in the Digital Resource Manual.
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February 27, 2026 — Advertising artwork deadline.
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March 2, 2026 — Hotel room reservation cut-off date.
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March 9, 2026 — Appointment selection opens. Click here for more details.
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March 10, 2026 —2:30- 3:30 PM (MST) How To Summit 101 Webinar- Learn everything you need to know about appointment scheduling and the basics of navigating Go West Summit. Perfect for first-time attendees.​
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March 27, 2026 — Deadline to modify appointment schedules.
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March 31, 2026 — 1:00 PM (MST) Registration opens for Go West Summit 2026 at ​The Rio, Las Vegas.
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April 1, 2026 — Education Day.
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April 2, 2026 — Marketplace 1 & 2.
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April 3, 2026 — Marketplace 3 & 4.
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April 4, 2026 — Destination Day.
Go West Summit 2025 Event Agenda
Monday, January 6
1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Go West Summit Registration
Mesquite Room, Palm Springs Convention Center
Pick up your event credentials and meet the staff
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Buyer Welcome Reception
Hosted by Travel Oregon
Renaissance Palm Springs
Travel Oregon invites buyers and media to attend their 4th annual Go West Summit Opening Reception. The Oregon delegation will be present to welcome all registered buyers and media to Palm Springs.
Event is restricted to buyers, media and invited guests only.
Tuesday, January 7 — Education Day
7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Go West Summit Registration
Mesquite Room, Palm Springs Convention Center
Pick up your event credentials and meet the staff
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Buyer Site Tour​
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Join your Palm Springs hosts for an exciting day of site visits and world-class scenic splendor! Buyers and journalists are welcome to submit their RSVP by clicking the link on their landing pages.
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Click HERE for more information.
8:00 a.m. - 9:10 a.m.
State Caucus Sessions​
Smoketree Rooms, Palm Springs Convention Center​
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The following state partners have chosen to hold caucuses for their supplier delegates:
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Arizona - Smoketree F
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California - Smoketree C
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Oregon - Smoketree E
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Utah - Smoketree D
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Washington - Smoketree A
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9:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Education Session
The State of International Travel to the United States
With David Huether, National Travel and Tourism Office
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>> View presentation slides here.
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Primrose Room A - Palm Springs Convention Center
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This session is designed to help suppliers focus their international promotion efforts in the right markets using the US Department of Commerce’s dashboard. Which countries had the highest inbound US visitation? To which states did they travel? Did Go West destinations see declines? What does the future hold for international tourism?
>>Learn more about David Huether
10:40 a.m. - 11:50 a.m.
Education Session
National Parks Update - Managing Visitation
​Moderated by Lisa Simon -CEO, International Inbound Travel Association. With Peter Van Berkel -Travalco & Jason Murray-Southwest Adventure Tours
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Primrose Room A - Palm Springs Convention Center​
This popular GWS session will provide an update on the short- and long-term plans of the National Parks Service and the major National Parks, including the CUA program for Road-based Commercial Tours, reservation systems managing visitation and congestion. NPS, IITA and other tour industry associations are collaborating to find mutually beneficial solutions that will ensure the best possible visitor experiences.
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In partnership with the International Inbound Travel Association
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>>Learn more​ about Lisa Simon
>>Learn more​ about Peter Van Berkel
>>Learn more​ about Jason Murray
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12:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.
![VisitTheUSA_Polariod_P2_RGB[35].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7811a6_0d93cfab0a7c45aab37b111f9d416857~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_98,h_88,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_3,enc_avif,quality_auto/7811a6_0d93cfab0a7c45aab37b111f9d416857~mv2.jpg)
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Education Session
Practical AI for Travel Brands & Destinations: A Conversation Between Industry Leaders
​With Marina Petrova, CEO, Intentful & Dan Flores, VP of Sales and Head of Tourism, Satisfi Labs
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>> View presentation slides here.
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Primrose Room B - Palm Springs Convention Center
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In a rare opportunity, two leaders in the AI space—Marina Petrova from Intentful and Dan Flores from Satisfy Labs—come together for a forward-looking discussion on AI’s impact in travel and tourism. This session showcases the unique perspectives of two key competitors, collaborating to explore what’s next for discovery, marketing, customer experience, and operations. Join this insightful panel to learn about: \
• AI use cases in travel and tourism
• Impact of AI on marketing, customer service, and operations
• Incorporating AI into your hiring plan
• Ensuring data privacy and security
• Harnessing rich data insights from AI software
Whether you’re just starting your AI journey or looking to optimize your existing strategies, this discussion offers practical insights and actionable takeaways from two of the industry’s most respected voices.
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>>Learn more​ about Marina Petrova
>>Learn more​ about Dan Flores
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Education Session
Navigating Change: Inspiring Teams and Elevating Customer Connections in Travel
​​With Jon Purpura, Director of Sales, Entertainment & Media,
United Airlines
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>> View presentation notes here.
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Primrose Room A - Palm Springs Convention Center
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In an ever-evolving travel landscape, organizations must adapt to new challenges while maintaining strong connections with their teams and customers. This session will explore strategies for inspiring teams to embrace change and foster a culture of adaptability. Through interactive discussions, attendees will gain insights into best practices for driving engagement and building trust.
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>>Learn more​ about Jon Purpura
2:40 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Education Session
Brand USA International Market Outlook
​​​With Jerod Fuchs, and Maya Hua, Brand USA
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>>View presentation slides here.
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Primrose Room A - Palm Springs Convention Center
Join us for a comprehensive global market update, offering valuable insights into current trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the travel industry.
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>>Learn more​ about Jerod Fuchs
>>Learn more​ about Maya Hua
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2:40 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Education Session
The Importance of Relationships in a
High-Tech World
​Moderated by Lena Ross- President & COO, America 4 You. With Hylton Fothergill- Bonotel, Chris Pilley,-Rocky Mountain Holiday Tours, & Quintin Blair, Blair Hotels
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Primrose Room B - Palm Springs Convention Center
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Connectivity has been driving change in the travel distribution system in recent years, and while technology is a tool for solving distribution inefficiencies, it can also detract from the personal touch that the travel industry was built on. This panel will share insights on how suppliers and DMOs can build business with inbound operator partners in a dynamically changing business environment.
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In partnership with the International Inbound Travel Association
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>>Learn more​ about Lena Ross
>>Learn more​ about Hylton Fothergill
>>Learn more​ about Chris Pilley
>>Learn more​ about Quintin Blair
3:40 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Education Session
"Sustainable Tourism" - A New Focus for Sustainable Tourism: Shaping Your Destination for Desirable Traveler
With Cathy Ritter, Founder of Better Destinations & Trustee, The Travel Foundation. With Tammy Canavan, President & CEO, Visit Seattle
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>> View presentation slides here.
Primrose Room A - Palm Springs Convention Center
Destinations across the world are transforming their tourism offerings to meet rising expectations for sustainable travel, and forecasters expect this trend to accelerate in the wake of the world's hottest year on record. Learn how Go West's host destination has placed destination stewardship at the center of its tourism strategy and is on a path to be among the top 10% of the world's sustainable destinations. You'll also learn about ground-breaking initiatives for both destinations and tour operators to create low-impact travel offerings for high-value travelers who wish to leave a lighter carbon footprint.
>>Learn more about Cathy Ritter
>>Learn more​ about Tammy Canavan
3:40 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Education Session
Ask the Inbound Operator​
Moderated by Robert Graff- Travel Nevada. With Aniseh Dalju- Onward, Brian Murphy- Utah Luxury Tours, & Julie Katz- TourMappers North America
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Primrose Room B - Palm Springs Convention Center
Hear from a panel of IITA inbound operators about international market trends, their role in the inbound industry and how you can effectively work with them to build your international business. Learn what their expectations are and the opportunities they see ahead from inbound markets. This is an interactive session. Please come with your questions in-hand, as the operators are eager to answer them.
In partnership with International Inbound Travel Association
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>>Learn more​ about Julie Katz
>>Learn more​ about Brian Murphy
>> Learn More about Robert Graff
Aniseh Daliju bio coming soon
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4:40 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.
Education Session
How to Summit - “Now that we are here - What to expect?”
Presented by: Barb Bowman, CEO, Bowman & Associates, LLC,
Lisa Bruening, Visit Denver, and Francisco Campos- Gate 1 Travel
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>>View presentation slides here.
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Primrose Room A -Palm Springs Convention Center
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Let us help you be prepared for tomorrow’s appointments. Learn everything from presenting your business card, to creative appointment tips. This session covers the basics of navigating Go West Summit. Perfect for 1st time attendees or anyone interested in learning more about GWS2025.
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>>Learn more about Barb Bowman
>>Learn more about Lisa Bruening
>>Learn more​ about Francisco Campos
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** Tuesday, December 11, 2024
How To Summit – Virtual Seminar​
Increase your chances of a successful Summit! This session covers the basics of navigating Go West Summit. GWS Vice President Bob Rebello will teach you everything you need to know about the appointment scheduling process, then you will go through appointment research, and what to expect during Go West Summit 2025...... Learn everything from presenting your business card, to creative appointment tips.
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View the video HERE
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5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
GetYourGuide Happy Hour
Ballroom Terrace, Renaissance Palm Springs
GetYourGuide is inviting a select group of GWS attendees to raise a glass and toast to a successful Summit! Invited guests only.
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Opening Event- Hosted by Visit Greater Palm Springs
Esplanade, Palm Springs Convention Center
Welcome all Attendees to Go West Summit 2025!
Join our hosts Visit Greater Palm Springs to kickstart this year's Summit with a lively cocktail reception under the stunning architecture of the Palm Springs Convention Center. Join us as we celebrate the start of an unforgettable week.
Wednesday, January 8
7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Go West Summit Registration
Mesquite Room, Palm Springs Convention Center
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Marketplace II
Oasis Room 2, Palm Springs Convention Center
The second of four Marketplace sessions featuring 12-minute,
one-on-one, pre-scheduled appointments.
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Travel Nevada Happy Hour
Date Terrace, Renaissance Palm Springs
Travel Nevada invites buyers to toast to a successful first day of Marketplace Appointments. The Nevada delegation will be present to welcome buyers and answer questions about the Silver State. Invited guests only.
Evening
On Your Own
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Use this free night to establish a relationship with a potential client or customer—ask them to join you for dinner!
Sign up for the Palm Springs Promise Program for discounts at local restaurants, shops and attractions. You can also visit the on-site information desk for ideas before exploring Greater Palm Springs.
Thursday, January 9
7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Go West Summit Registration
Mesquite Room, Palm Springs Convention Center
7:45 a.m. - 8:50 a.m.
The BIG REVEAL Breakfast
California Ballroom, Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel
Presented by our 2026 Go West Summit destination host. Don't miss the excitement as our next host is revealed!
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Marketplace III
Oasis Room 2, Palm Springs Convention Center
The third of four Marketplace sessions featuring 12-minute,
one-on-one, pre-scheduled appointments.
12:00 p.m. - 1:10 p.m.
Lunch - Sponsored by Visit Colorado Springs
California Ballroom, Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel
1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Speed Appointment Session
Oasis Room 2, Palm Springs Convention Center
Couldn't schedule an appointment with a buyer? Use this time to meet buyers and journalists at their tables for one hour of unscheduled
5-minute appointments.
2:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Marketplace IV
Oasis Room 2, Palm Springs Convention Center
The final Marketplace session featuring 12-minute,
one-on-one, pre-scheduled appointments.
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Closing Event - Hosted By Visit California
& the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum
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Celebrate a successful conclusion to this year’s Go West Summit by joining us at the new Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum. Light hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served outside on the Plaza with museum tours offered throughout the event.
Owned and operated by the Tribe, the 5.8-acre Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in the heart of downtown Palm Springs celebrates the history, culture, and traditions of the Agua Caliente people. The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza features the new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, The Spa at Séc-he that celebrates the Tribe's ancient Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring, a Gathering Plaza, and an Oasis Trail. Building upon the traditions of the Agua Caliente people and the world-renowned natural features of their ancestral lands, the new Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza encompasses a wide range of experiences and learning opportunities that convey the values and legacy of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
A special thank you to the Tribe for granting special approval for this event and to Visit California for their financial support this evening and their Visit Native California tourism initiative.
Afterward, everyone is encouraged to experience Palm Springs VillageFest, a weekly street fair featuring arts, crafts, food, and entertainment. The Palm Springs VillageFest is in downtown Palm Springs, on Palm Canyon Drive between Baristo and Amado Roads.
Friday, January 10 — Destination Day
New for 2025! Destination Day offers more access and control to all Go West Summit attendees wishing to explore Palm Springs by offering discounted tickets or free admission to some truly incredible experiences.
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Learn more about Destination Day HERE.
FAM Trips
Buyers and journalists are invited to explore destinations and hotels across the American West before and after the show. Several multiday excursions are offered to registered delegates. Additional Information coming soon.