ATCA starts off with positive first day and a half
A.M. Digital
11/04/2005

Annual Tourism Conference Aruba (ATCA) started off very positively with presentations of the various tour operators that sell Aruba in the North American market. Each top tour operator presented its figures, plans, strategies and requests for 2006.

In general the figures are positive and any negative effect is because of the reduced number of rooms available during 2005. The temporary closing of Allegro Resort and the remodeling of the Holiday Inn Sun Spree Resort caused a reduction of 600 rooms for an extended period of time.

The tour operators are very pleased with the professional and efficient manner in which Team Aruba (ATA and AHATA) represents Aruba in that market, and for the support that the provide to the tour operators. They are also very happy with the excellent relationship that exists between Aruba and its partners: the tour operators and airlines.

Positive news is that the affect of the Natalee Holloway disappearance case is marginal and, according to the tour operators, the economy in the US and the high cost of fuel are the biggest causes for concern because that will affect the travel pattern of the American consumer and potential visitor of Aruba.

According to Myrna Janssen, ATA Managing Director, “ATCA has always been a tremendous opportunity for us to exchange ideas with ur partners in the US and to tighten the already excellent relations. Our partners shared their strategies for 2006 and jointly we will work on the plan to promote Aruba optimally”.
Some 14 tour operators from the North American market made a presentation, as well as US Airways that here to introduce some new players after their merger with America West. The presentations took place at the Aruba Marriott Resort and at the Renaissance Convention Center on Wednesday.

ATCA 2005 continues until Saturday November 5 with its 125 participants.

[English language original text]