July 17-21, 2021

9800 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
+1 407 685 9800

The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) has received its Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ accreditation on outbreak prevention, response and recovery. GBAC is a division of ISSA (International Sanitary and Supply Association) and composed of international leaders in the field of microbial-pathogenic threat analysis, mitigation, response and recovery. GBAC led the effort on the SARS outbreak and was the lead agency in the eradication of Ebola. GBAC provides training, guidance, accreditation, crisis management assistance and leadership to government, commercial and private entities looking to mitigate, address and/or recover from biological threats in real-time.   
 

Recognized as the gold standard of safe venues, the OCCC is one of the largest venues in the nation to receive the GBAC STAR™ accreditation.  To view the corresponding press release, please visit: occc.net/About-Us-Media-Relations-Press-Releases/ArticleID/203/OCCC-Earns-GBAC-STAR-Accreditation  

• Building Security 
  • The OCCC maintains twenty-four (24) hour building security in the public halls, corridors, and grounds. 
  • The Security Command Center is staffed by OCCC security officers twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.  Security officers are on duty twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week. 
  • OCCC security officers are uniformed with the majority being First Responder-certified. 
• Will I be required to wear a mask? Will PPE wear be provided? 
  • Yes, we require masks. GBTA will provide masks and hand sanitizer only.  Attendees are welcome to bring your own masks. We will monitor the guidelines and will provide any updates prior to the convention. 
• What precautions is GBTA implementing for the safety and health of attendees? 
  • The health and safety of our employees and attendees is a priority.  
  • On-site medical in partnership with Event Medical Services.  GBTA will work with Event Medical Services and security teams to develop COVID-19 risk plans. 
  • Enhanced cleaning protocols for GBTA meeting and event spaces. 
  • Hand sanitizer stations will be positioned throughout the meeting space by the OCCC and GBTA.  
  • Require frequent employee and vendor handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and increase monitoring to ensure adherence.    
  • No-touch policy (I.e. shaking hands and limiting contact) 
  • Require the use of masks among attendees, staff, and vendors. 
  • Limit attendance or seating capacity to allow for social distancing, or host smaller events in larger rooms. 
  • Manage flow and use multiple entrances and exits and discourage crowded waiting areas. 
  • Provide physical guides to ensure that individuals remain at least 6 feet apart in lines and at other times. Appropriate Signage/floor decals to reinforce spatial distancing and other safety reminders. 
  • Use of shields or separators at registration and other areas as needed.  
  • Socially distant food and beverage/meal set ups.  Lunches will be individually packaged and preset.  Additional food safety plans will be developed for other food functions at the convention center. 
  • Limit seating capacity, social distancing and cleaning on GBTA hotel shuttles.  The larger convention room blocks are near the Convention center (walking distance). 
  • Wider exposition hall aisles and review of booth density numbers (staff and visitors allowed based on total square footage).  
  • Temporal temperature screening or thermal Cameras (non-invasive) may be used to conduct temperature checks.  Anyone displaying a temperature over 100.4°F may be taken to first aid for additional temperature screening.  Employees or attendees confirmed to have a temperature over 100.4°F will not be allowed to enter any GBTA event venue and will be directed to appropriate medical care.  GBTA has the right to refuse admittance into any event as we take security and health factors into consideration.  If you have a medical condition that consistently presents a high fever or other relevant symptoms, please be sure to have medical certificate/documentation upon arrival to share with health professionals during any screening.  
  • Possible use of sanitizing tunnels.  We will monitor the current guidelines to determine the use of these units. 
  • Dedicated isolation area 
  • GBTA will continue to monitor safety guidelines.  Additional safety measures will be provided prior to the convention. 
• What precautions is the convention center implementing for the safety and health of attendees? 
  • OCCC continues to monitor the situation through updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Florida Department of Public Health, along with direct dialogue with Orange County Government officials.  
  • The OCCC has a disinfectant procedure in place for cleanings which adhere to the CDC and WHO guidance. There is also an increased number of hand sanitation sites available at the OCCC and surrounding campus, providing alcohol-based hand sanitizer for all attendees and staff.  
  • The OCCC will work with the GBTA on the guidelines for specific event participants, trade shows and conventions. In public areas, practice physical distancing by standing at least six feet away from other groups of people while standing in lines, using elevators and moving around the property. Table rounds, chairs, seating areas and other physical layouts will be arranged to ensure appropriate distancing. All meeting rooms will comply with, or exceed, local or state mandated occupancy limits. The OCCC discourages handshakes and other forms of physical greetings.  
  • OCCC conducts daily cleaning of all door handles throughout the building. The frequency of cleaning and sanitizing has been increased in all public spaces with an emphasis on frequent contact surfaces including countertops, escalators, elevators, elevator buttons, vending machines, door handles, public bathrooms, ATMs, stair and escalator handrails, dining surfaces, all seating areas and tables.  
  •  HVAC systems will continue to remain running 24-hours a day in the front of house areas while maintaining less than 60% humidity as per industry standards. The HVAC systems in the exhibit halls will run 24-hours a day while occupied and fresh air exhaust will be utilized during move-in and move-out. HVAC HEPA filters will be maintained and replaced every 3 months, or as needed. 
  • If the OCCC is alerted to a presumptive case of COVID-19 at the OCCC, the proper staff will work with the Florida Department of Health to follow the appropriate actions recommended.  
  • Stay up to date with the Orange County Convention Center’s Coronavirus response here: https://www.occc.net/Coronavirus  
  • The OCCC’s Operational Guidelines can also be found here: https://www.occc.net/Operations  
• What are the precautions at Convention Hotels? 
  • COVID-19 and safety information for the different hotel chains can be found on the housing website.  https://www.onpeak.com/covid-19#hotelResources  
• Transportation  
  • GBTA is staying up to date on all travel guidelines, considerations and restrictions from global and local authorities. We’ll be reporting any major transportation or travel announcements that impact the event on the GBTA website.  See what action TSA’s taking in response to COVID-19 https://www.tsa.gov/coronavirus.   
  • For further updates regarding domestic and international travel, please visit:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html 
  • Orlando Airport:  https://orlandoairports.net/coronavirus-covid-19/ 
  • City of Orlando COVID-19 update:  https://www.orlando.gov/COVID-19 
  • Be sure to visit your airline’s website to stay informed of their protocols. 

• Attendee/Exhibitor Personal Safety Commitment
• By registering and attending GBTA Convention 2021, you agree to comply with all terms and conditions, such as but not limited to, standards of behavior and engage in certain health-and-safety conduct as directed by state/local laws while attending the event.  This includes, but is not limited to, submitting to daily temperature checks, wearing a mask at all times in public areas, engaging in appropriate physical distancing and not attending the event if you are ill or have been recently exposed to COVID-19.
• In light of the ongoing spread of COVID-19, individuals who fall within any of the categories below should not attend the GBTA Convention. By attending the GBTA Convention, you certify that you do not fall into any of the following categories:
  • Individuals who currently or within the past fourteen (14) days have experienced any symptoms associated with COVID-19, which include fever, cough, and shortness of breath among others;
  • Individuals who have traveled at any point in the past fourteen (14) days either internationally or to a community in the U.S. that has experienced or is experiencing sustained community spread of COVID-19; or  
  • Individuals who believe that they may have been exposed to a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and are not yet cleared as non-contagious by state or local public health authorities or the health care team responsible for their treatment.
  • I agree to self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 (symptoms typically include fever, cough, and shortness of breath) and, contact GBTA if you experience symptoms of COVID-19 within 14 days after participating in the GBTA convention.
• Symptoms of Covid:  
  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

GBTA Convention 2021 will feature over 80 education sessions on all the latest trends and technologies expected in the coming decade. Specific education session information will be made available by March 2021. 

To view more information regarding Professional Development at GBTA Convention 2021 please visit convention.gbta.org/Program/Professional-Development. 
 

Session Schedule
 

Global Leadership Professional® Program - Finance: GBTA’s Global Leadership Professional® (GLP) Program is the only masters-level course for travel professionals. The strategic curriculum uses an interdisciplinary approach that addresses both the opportunities and challenges of conducting business in today’s evolving environment. 

Committee Roundtable Sessions: Designed by the GBTA committees to create an opportunity for members of our industry to engage in learning and teaching amongst their own industry peers on hot and relevant topics. 

Vertical Peer-to-Peer: Buyer-only sessions designed to create an opportunity for members of our industry to engage in learning and teaching amongst their own niche industry peers.
 

West Hall A1-B1

Monday, July 19        
10:30 AM – 12:00PM
2:30 PM - 6:00 PM  

Tuesday, July 20        
10:00 AM – 12:00PM
2:00 PM - 6:30 PM 

Wednesday, July 21
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM 

West Hall A1-B1

Exhibitors may enter the expo floor with proper exhibitor badge credentials during the following days and times:

Monday, July 19        
7:30 AM – 6:00 PM 

Tuesday, July 20        
7:30 AM – 6:00 PM 

Wednesday, July 21  
7:30 AM – 6:00 PM 

West Hall A1

Exhibiting companies will have the opportunity to book a business lounge appointment. Business Lounge Appointments are reserved, private meeting spaces for buyer and internal staff meetings that also have extended hours, outside the exposition floor. Business Lounge Appointments are open the following hours: 

Move-in Hours:

Saturday, July 17
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Sunday, July 18
8:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Open Meeting Hours:

Sunday, July 18
1:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Monday, July 19
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Tuesday, July 20
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Wednesday, July 21
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Exhibitors will have access to their Business Lounge beginning at 7:30am Monday – Wednesday to set up for their appointments each day. During Exposition hours, access to the Business Lounges will only be available through the Exposition floor (West Hall A1-B1). During hours the Exposition is not open, the only available entrance to the Business Lounges will be through the doors at West Hall A1. Proper credentials are required for access. 

• Exhibitors
• Discover GBTA Kiosk
• Innovation Row
• GBTA Business Lounge Appointments
• Show Services Desks
  • GES (Deco)
  • OnServices (AV)
  • Lead Retrieval
  • Internet and Electric (OCCC)
  • Floral
  • Photography
  • Others

More details to come.

Located in Lobby C

• The order in which organizations select their booths for next year’s Convention is based on priority points. Suppliers should have received their appointment via email prior to Convention. However, they are welcome to stop by the 2022 Expo Selection Center to confirm or view their appointment time. Walk-in appointments are welcome starting at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, July 21.    
• Advertising Packages are pre-selected marketing offerings that will allow a supplier’s organization to communicate with GBTA’s network of corporate travel professionals before, during or after Convention. These packages are available for purchase at a discount during Booth Selection and in the Expo Selection Center.  
• Missed space selection appointment time – proceed to the 2022 Expo Selection Center for assistance or call the Exhibits Team at +1 888 224 3675 or email sponsor@gbta.org.  
• If you are a first-time exhibitor and would like to sign up to exhibit in 2022, stop by the 2022 Expo Selection Center on Wednesday, July 21 at 10:00 AM or email exhibit@gbta.org for more information.   

You must wear your GBTA Convention badge at all times to receive admittance to GBTA Convention, Education Sessions, Professional Development Sessions, Exposition, Lunch, General Sessions and shuttle buses. 

Badge sharing, splitting or reprints made outside of the official GBTA registration system are strictly prohibited. Any attendee found in violation of this policy will be removed from the Convention and all badges will be revoked. 

GBTA registration will be open in the following locations:  
 

Main Registration Area (Registration Concourse – West A/B Lobby) 

Saturday, July 17
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 

Sunday, July 18
7:30 AM – 7:15 PM 

Monday, July 19
7:30 AM - 6:00 PM  

Tuesday, July 20
7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 

Wednesday, July 21
8:30 AM - 2:00 PM 

Press registrations are allowed at the GBTA Convention 2021 but must be approved by GBTA. For press inquiries please contact Matt Swanston at mswanston@gbta.org or +1 703 684 0836 Ext.103. Press should submit their registration request online at convention.gbta.org/Registration.    

GBTA is currently working with the official event hotels to finalize our new hotel blocks. At this time no further action is required on your part.  We ask that you wait to hear from GBTA regarding your reservation(s) for the new dates. We will be in touch with further information.

All Convention attendees must first register for the Convention prior to booking their housing. Accommodations will be available on a first come first serve basis at convention hotels.

Sponsor & Exhibitor Room Block Requests:

A room block will be defined as five (5) or more rooms. If you are a sponsor or exhibitor and need less than five rooms you will need to register each attendee first on your registration confirmation page through the registration process you will click the Housing Reservations button for a direct link to book a hotel. A block of rooms may be requested at https://convention.gbta.org/Registration/Housing-Details. For more information please contact the GBTA Housing Center at gbtaconvention@onpeak.com

onPeak:The only Authorized Housing Vendor for GBTA Convention 2020 onPeak is the exclusive official provider of housing for GBTA Convention 2020. No other companies or providers have authorization or permission from GBTA to serve as official providers and work with GBTA on housing arrangements, including room blocks. onPeak researches the properties to make certain that Convention attendees will be adequately accommodated. The room block is established to ensure that rooms meet onPeak standards and are offered at a discounted price. You may receive solicitations via email, phone, fax, or letter from other companies and housing providers. If you are contacted by any company other than onPeak offering housing in Denver, please note that these companies are not authorized to represent GBTA, nor do they have access to officially contracted GBTA 2020 room blocks or rates in Denver. These unauthorized companies may falsely use GBTA's logo and claim to be affiliated with or working on behalf of GBTA, and often don't deliver on promises to customers. When customers arrive, reservations are non-existent, or the hotels are not conveniently located. Sometimes the rooms have been cancelled and hefty cancellation fees have been placed on the customer's credit card. If any of these companies contact you directly about reservations for GBTA, do not book with them and contact onPeak or GBTA immediately. Booking with them puts you at risk, and GBTA cannot be held responsible. Note - GBTA nor onPeak will not ask for you to fill out a paper form to collect credit card information to secure hotel rooms, all credit card information is gathered online via the GBTA Convention 2020 housing portal. These companies' practices make it more difficult for GBTA to meet our room block commitments and expose us to penalties and increased room rates for our events. GBTA is financially liable for all contracted rooms, whether the hotel sells them or not. This is why we ask that you always book your rooms under the GBTA block. We work diligently to give all attendees the best overall experience at our Convention and ask for your continued support. If you are contacted by any company other than onPeak offering housing in Denver, please forward the emails or correspondence to onPeak or GBTA. If you have any questions, please contact the GBTA Housing Center at gbtaconvention@onpeak.com.

• Water stations to be positioned through the Orange County Convention Center
• GBTA will provide morning coffee on Monday and Tuesday for Education Session attendees 
• Concessions for purchase will be available during the Convention
• Attendees who indicated the need for a specific meal due to dietary restrictions during the registration process will receive a specialized meal ticket at check in with their registration materials
  • Tickets can be handed to banquet staff during Lunch to ensure dietary needs are met 
  • If you did not receive your special meal ticket at check-in, please go to Main Registration
• Centerplate is the exclusive provider of food and beverage services at the Orange County Convention Center.
  • From the Centerplate Covid Response Team:
    • As we pivot to improve supply chain pathways, our procurement teams have created a national stockpile of critical PPE, Chemicals, & Supplies to assure that we remain prepared to protect the safety of our customers, clients and employees. We have partnered with our vendors to assure that our food providers are placing the same elevated focus on safety that you would expect from us. As our teams bring each facility back online, we are sharing and implementing best practices from Centerplate and Sodexo locations around the globe.
    • We are putting a number of new practices and policies in place at ALL of our venues as we welcome returning guests.
      • 3 Ply Surgical Masks & Gloves for all Staff
      • Increased cleaning schedule
      • Elevated training for all team members
      • Employee wellness screening upon arrival
      • Expanded sanitizer stations
      • New, targeted cleaning solutions
    • Designated a Health Ambassador for each facility. This employee will receive specialized training to help:
      • Direct local Teams
      • Work with Local Health Department
      • Pre-Shift Safety Training
      • Client Liaison
      • Sanitation Walkthroughs
    • Our talented Chefs are working to adapt traditional services and menus to work within our new norms. Individually packed meals, modified buffet services, specialized packaging, and adapted menus are all being created to offer our clients some new options when planning meal services for their guests.
    • We have also added additional measures to protect the safety of our guests here at the center:
      • Freedom Pay
      • Point of Sale Barriers
      • Wrapped Silverware
      • PC Condiments
      • Outdoor Seating Options

GBTA shuttle bus pick-up/drop-off is located at West Concourse West A/B Lobby entrance. Please see the shuttle schedule provided onsite, at each hotel and in the mobile app for the shuttle schedule.    

The majority of the GBTA Convention 2021 room block is located within walking distance of the Orange County Convention Center. Limited seating, social distancing and cleaning will be managed by the shuttle bus provider. 

The following taxicab companies are approved to pick up at the Orange County Convention Center: 

Checker Cab: +1 407 422 2222 

City Cab: +1 407 422 2222 

Diamond Cab Company: +1 407 523 3333 

Star Taxi: +1 407 857 9999 

Yellow Cab: +1 407 422 2222 

Rideshare drop-off and pick-up locations are at the entrances of West Hall A and West Halls E&F.

Orange County Convention Center event-specific parking areas will be listed on overhead electronic signage on International Drive and the surrounding area. 

• The West Building parking lot can be accessed via Exhibit Drive (north entrance), via Convention Way (south entrance) and via West Entrance Drive off Westwood Boulevard. 
• The Destination Parkway Parking Garage is located two blocks west on International Drive and is operational based on event activity. Depending on the show, guests parking in the Destination Parkway Garage may be shuttled to their event in either the West or the North/South buildings. 

The OCCC accepts cash, traveler's checks, American Express, MasterCard and Visa. 

• $17 parking fee will apply to passenger vehicles, per entry. 
• $25 parking fee will apply to oversize vehicles, per entry. 

Short-term parking spaces are available in front of the West and North/South buildings. Guests will be able to park in a designated space for up to three hours at a rate of $5 per hour. 

FedEx Office® Print and Ship Center is the exclusive business center for the Orange County Convention Center located in the West concourse, near Hall C.  FedEx Office® business center is available for all convention participants, offering full-service printing of office materials, production of vinyl banners/signs, Internet access and faxing. 

FedEx Office® Print and Ship Center 
9800 International Drive 
Orlando, FL 32819 
(P) 407 363 2831  
(F) 407 363–4731 
usa3996@fedex.com  

The FedEx Store will be open during the GBTA Convention Monday – Sunday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.  

Mobility services and solutions are also available via FedEx Office. Other services include computer workstation rentals and exclusive attendee shipping services. 

The Orange County Convention Center has wheelchair ramps, automatic doors, passenger elevators and accessible restrooms for those who need them. Scooter and wheelchair rental services are provided by Scootaround. Through the on-site rental location, guests can rent mobility scooters, wheelchairs and oxygen equipment for events held at the convention center. Please note:

• Advance reservations for a scooter or wheelchair rental are encouraged
• To place a scooter or wheelchair reservation visit the Scootaround website
• Pick-up and drop-off for rentals are located at the FedEx Business Center
• Please call 1-888-441-7575 for more information.
   

Located at West A/B Lobby (near Registration Concourse). Laptops and other electronic items will not be accepted due to liability. The coat and bag check costs $3 per item checked.  Cash only. The schedule is as follows: 

Monday, July 19
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM 

Tuesday, July 20 
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM 

Wednesday, July 21 
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM 

The Orange County Convention Center offers four First Aid stations located in the West Concourse. The First Aid stations will be staffed during all official Convention hours:  

Med 1  - Located near W240 

Med 2 - Located in front of Hall WD2 (W224) 

Med 3 - Located in Central Lobby (Hall WC) 

Med 4 - Located in Level 1 Lobby (below Hall WA)  

Saturday, July 17 
7:00 AM – 6:30 PM 

Sunday, July 18 
7:00 AM – 6:30 PM 

Monday, July 19 
7:00 AM – 6:30 PM 

Tuesday, July 20 
7:00 AM – 6:30 PM 

Wednesday, July 21 
7:30 AM – 5:30 PM 

In the event of a life-threatening emergency at the Orange County Convention Center, dial 9-1-1.  

After calling 911, notify your contracted Event Security Provider of the emergency. Your contracted Event Security Provider will then contact the OCCC Security Command Center, which will involve any additional OCCC staff and/or agencies as needed. 

For non-life-threatening situations, contact the GBTA Convention contracted event security provider or GBTA staff. The GBTA contracted event security provider or GBTA staff will then contact the OCCC Security Command Center to initiate communication protocols for involving additional OCCC staff and/or agencies as needed. 

Lost and found is managed by the Security Division of the Orange County Convention Center, who patrol the convention center 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you lose an item while onsite at the convention center, please call the Security Command Center at +1 407 685 1119. The Security Command Center is located at Dock 7 in the West Building. 

There are two information desks located in the West Concourse of the convention center, one is located on Level 1 at the A/B Lobby (near Main Registration), and the other is in the C Lobby near the FedEx Business Center. The information desks are staffed by Visit Orlando and available to assist attendees in purchasing discounted attraction tickets, making dining reservations, recommending nightlife and entertainment and more! 

• ATM - There are ATMs and money change machines located in the West Concourse Lobby 
• Shoe Shine – A shoe shine station operates along the West Concourses during event hours 

The Orange County Convention Center has Wellness Rooms in the West, North and South concourses. The Wellness Rooms provide a private space for nursing mothers to pump or breastfeed in addition to meditate, pray or attend to other personal medical needs.  

• West Concourse - Level 2, West Hall C Lobby, to the right of the Citrus Café (Food Court C) 

Access the Convention agenda, speaker details, exposition floor plan, news, photos, attendee messaging and more! Download the app from iTunes, the Google Play store, or at gbta.org/mobile. Available Spring 2021. 

Using advanced planning tools, attendees can plan and customize their Convention experience. More information to come.

GBTA will provide wireless internet access in all areas including the Expo. 

For more information on unauthorized company solicitations please visit:  convention.gbta.org/About/Unauthorized-Solicitation

GBTA Convention participants may not organize or sponsor any activities that conflict with the official GBTA program or sponsored events during official convention hours. The scheduling of product presentations or hospitality activities during any GBTA official Convention events such as the Exposition, Education Sessions, Annual Business Meeting, General Sessions, Lunch, the GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk or any Kick-Start events is strictly prohibited. Under no circumstances should sales or any other type of individual gatherings, take place during official GBTA Convention events that involve multiple buyers (Direct members/travel managers) from multiple companies.  Our partners have made significant investments in specific parts of the GBTA Convention and we want all delegates to be able to enjoy this annual, one-of-a-kind experience without distraction. GBTA will have final approval on the allocation of any requested convention center space, hospitality suites or hotel space within the designated GBTA hotel blocks. Suites must be operated in good taste and may only be operated outside of official Convention and Exposition activities. Loss of priority points, ejection from the exposition floor, and a minimum financial penalty of $2,500 can occur if any exhibitor, sponsor, member company or supplier company is found in violation of any rules. 

"Suitcasing"/soliciting is prohibited. Suitcasing is the act of soliciting business in the aisles of the exposition, public spaces in, around, and outside the convention center, in another company's booth, within indoor or outdoor public spaces in any convention hotel including the hotel lobbies, foyers, or walkways to the convention center (excluding the use of approved hospitality suites and business lounges). GBTA recognizes that suitcasing may also take the form of commercial activity conducted from a hotel guest room or hospitality suite, a restaurant, club, or any other public place of assembly. For the purposes of this policy, suitcasing violations may occur at venues other than the exhibitor's booth and at other events. Violations of this provision by an exhibitor, sponsor, non- exhibitor, or attendee will constitute a breach of contract and the violating attendee, exhibitor, sponsor, non-exhibitor or group will immediately cease and desist unauthorized activities. Attendee will remove any equipment or materials contained in the exposition or elsewhere and forfeit all payments to GBTA pursuant to this contract. Additional fees will be charged to the attendee for each violation, and a loss of priority points will occur. Additionally, attendee will be responsible for any damages to GBTA. You can find out more about GBTA’s suitcasing policy in the GBTA Convention 2021 Terms and Conditions.  

The GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, July 18 from 7:30am – 9:00am on the Orange County Convention Center grounds. Start/Finish Line will be at Hyatt Regency Convention Center, Regency Rotunda 

• Advanced registration is recommended through the GBTA Convention registration system. 
• Additional participants can register in advance.   
• Onsite registration at the race will be available. 
• All proceeds from this event go directly to ECPAT-USA. 
• The GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk is sponsored by American Airlines  

The Convention is now scheduled for November 7-11, 2020.  If you have already made a housing reservation for our previous dates, no further action is required on your part at this time. GBTA is currently working with the official event hotels to finalize our new hotel blocks. We ask that you be flexible with hotel availability as we continue to manage our date change and available room blocks with each hotel property.
 

• Attendee Housing: We will transfer your individual hotel reservation. At a later date, we will reconfirm your hotel reservation and ask for a new credit card guarantee.
   
• Exhibitor/Sponsor Housing Blocks:  If you have a room block secured for July, GBTA and OnPeak will contact each company to reconfirm room blocks and needs at a later date. OnPeak will request new credit card guarantees and payments through the Exhibitor Housing Management Portal only.

OnPeak Reminder: OnPeak is the Only Authorized Housing Vendor for GBTA Convention 2020
onPeak is the exclusive official provider of housing for GBTA Convention 2020. No other companies or providers have authorization or permission from GBTA to serve as official providers and work with GBTA on housing arrangements, including room blocks. onPeak researches the properties to make certain that Convention attendees will be adequately accommodated. The room block is established to ensure that rooms meet onPeak standards and are offered at a discounted price. You may receive solicitations via email, phone, fax, or letter from other companies and housing providers. If you are contacted by any company other than onPeak offering housing in Denver, please note that these companies are not authorized to represent GBTA, nor do they have access to officially contracted GBTA 2020 room blocks or rates in Denver. These unauthorized companies may falsely use GBTA's logo and claim to be affiliated with or working on behalf of GBTA, and often don't deliver on promises to customers. When customers arrive, reservations are non-existent, or the hotels are not conveniently located. Sometimes the rooms have been cancelled and hefty cancellation fees have been placed on the customer's credit card. If any of these companies contact you directly about reservations for GBTA, do not book with them and contact onPeak or GBTA immediately. Booking with them puts you at risk, and GBTA cannot be held responsible. Note - GBTA nor onPeak will not ask for you to fill out a paper form to collect credit card information to secure hotel rooms, all credit card information is gathered online via the GBTA Convention 2020 housing portal. These companies' practices make it more difficult for GBTA to meet our room block commitments and expose us to penalties and increased room rates for our events. GBTA is financially liable for all contracted rooms, whether the hotel sells them or not. This is why we ask that you always book your rooms under the GBTA block. We work diligently to give all attendees the best overall experience at our Convention and ask for your continued support. If you are contacted by any company other than onPeak offering housing in Denver, please forward the emails or correspondence to onPeak or GBTA. If you have any questions, please contact the GBTA Housing Center at GBTAConvention@onpeak.com or Ann Corbitt at acorbitt@gbta.org or Rachael Snider at rsnider@gbta.org.
 

Can I join or renew onsite? 

• Yes, visit the main GBTA Support Central area West A/B Lobby (near Registration Concourse)  or join online at gbta.org/join 
  • Already a member? Renew now at gbta.org/renew 
  • Want to become a member? Join online at gbta.org/join 

• How much is membership? 
  • Visit the GBTA Support Central area or gbta.org/join 
  • Membership bundles and renewals can be purchased during the registration process. 

• Where do I locate my Member ID? 
  • Prior to the event, please contact the GBTA Member Care team directly at +1 888 574 6447 or membercare@gbta.org for your Member ID. During the event, the Member ID will be located on the front of the attendee registration badge. 

• I forgot my password. 
  • To retrieve your GBTA password go to gbta.org/ssologin and select the “Forgot Your Password?” link on the left-hand side of the page (under the “Log In” button). Then type your email address in the space provided and select, “Submit” to have your password sent via email. If the email address you have provided matches the one in our database, we will email your password to you. Please contact the GBTA Member Care team directly at +1 888 574 6447 or membercare@gbta.org if further assistance is needed. 

• Is GBTA working with a housing bureau for GBTA Convention 2021? 
  • Yes, onPeak is the official housing provider for GBTA Convention 2021. No other companies or providers have authorization or permission from GBTA to serve as official providers and work with GBTA on housing arrangements, including room blocks.  

• I am transferring my 2020 registration, what happens with my hotel reservation? 
  • All GBTA 2020 housing reservations made through onPeak have been canceled. 
  • Attendees transferring their registration from 2020 to 2021 will receive a confirmation email with a direct link to book new hotel accommodations in December 2020. 

• Which hotels are HQ? 
  • Hyatt Regency Orlando (HQ) 
  • Hilton Orlando (Co-HQ) 

• Where can I find a list of the hotels and room rates?  
  • Please visit convention.gbta.org/Registration/Housing-Details for hotels and room rates 

• How many hotels are in the GBTA Convention 2021 block? 
  • GBTA has contracted with eight (8) Orlando hotels.  See hotel list under shuttles. 

• Who do I contact about housing? 
  • Housing inquiries can be directed to gbtaconvention@onpeak.com or by calling +1 800 789 2436 or + 1 312 527 7300. onPeak is the official housing provider for GBTA Convention 2021.  

• Where can I find more information on Sponsor and Exhibitor housing? 
  • For more information on requesting a block of rooms as a Sponsor or Exhibitor please visit convention.gbta.org/Registration/Housing-Details 

• My preferred hotel is sold out? How do I get on the waitlist for my preferred hotel?  
  • If your preferred hotel(s) is sold out, you must first book a room at an available hotel and then select the waitlist option at your preferred hotels. You will not be able to waitlist yourself unless you have a confirmed reservation at an available hotel. 
  • onPeak will contact you should room(s) become available at the waitlisted hotel(s). You may also call +1 800 789 2436 or +1 312 527 7300 for further assistance. 

• How do I change my hotel room? I don’t like it… 
  • Please visit the Housing Desk located by Main Registration in West A/B Lobby. 

• Hotel Health & Safety Information 
  • Can be found here: https://www.onpeak.com/covid-19#hotelResources  

• Can I sit in on the general session lunch even if I do not eat? 
  • Yes, tables for seating without lunch service will be in the back of the room only 

• Is there reserved seating at the general session lunch? 
  • No, unless you have been invited to a sponsored table or you have purchased a table then seating is on a first come basis, however there may be room capacity limitations due to Covid and social distancing. 

• What is the shuttle schedule/what route is my hotel on? 
  • Shuttles will be provided for the hotels listed below with “yes” in the shuttle column. 
  • Shuttles will not be provided for the hotels listed below with “walk” in the shuttle column.  
  • The hotels listed as walk are within walking distance of the Orange County Convention Center 
  • See shuttle schedule provided onsite, at each hotel and in the mobile app for more information 

• How do I contact registration for questions or support? 
  • GBTA Convention registration call center can be reached at +1 833 696 7547 or by email at gbtasupport@cvent.com.  
  • The call center hours of operations are 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM EST, Monday through Friday. 
• Convention 2020 Registration Transfers:  
  • GBTA automatically transferred all GBTA Convention 2020 registrations to the GBTA Convention 2021 in Orlando, FL. Please contact GBTA at gbtasupport@cvent.com or +1 703 684 0836 if you have any additional questions. Refunds will no longer be issued for Convention 2020 registrations as the refund window is closed.   
• Can my friend or guest come to Convention? 
  • Registration is not available for friends or guests. 

• Can my child/children come to Convention? 
  • Registration is not available for children.   
  • No one under the age of 18 is allowed on the exhibit hall floor or loading dock during move-in and move-out. There will be no exceptions to this rule.  
• How do I get an attendee list? 
  • GBTA is the only provider of official attendee lists.  Lists are not sold to or authorized by third parties. 
  • An attendee list is available for purchase to exhibitors only. Order forms are available in the Exhibitor Service Manual. 
  • In addition, a list of companies in attendance is available online at convention.gbta.org/Attend/2020-Travel-Buyer-Company-List 

• Can I attend the exposition only? 
  • We do not have an exposition only pass. 
• I did not register for the First Time Attendee Orientation & Luncheon, can I still attend? 
  • Yes, but this event is limited to first time attendees and mentor participants only.  Due to Covid and social distancing, there may be room capacity limitations onsite for those that did not express interest during the registration process. 
• Do you have to register for the Convention to participate in the GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk? 
  • No, you do not have to register for Convention to participate in the GBTA Awareness 5K. 
  • Registration for the GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk can be found on the GBTA Convention website at convention.gbta.org/Program/Kick-Start-Weekend/GBTA-Awareness-5K-Run-Walk as well as under ‘Convention Kick-Start Sessions Only’ option during the registration process. 
  • The GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk can be found as an optional item when selecting Full Convention or WINiT Only options through the registration process. 
  • If you want to sign up ONLY for the GBTA Awareness 5k Run/Walk only, you can register here. 
• I did not register for the GBTA Awareness 5K Run/Walk, can I still attend? 
  • Yes, registration will be available onsite at the race.  
• I lost my credentials. Can I get replacement badge? 
  • Yes, a fee of $95 will be charged for a single badge reprint. A maximum of one badge reprint is permitted for lost or misplaced badges. Additional reprint will be charged at the onsite registration rate. 
• What is the substitution policy? 
  • Substitutions are allowed at no charge.  
  • The substitute is responsible for all financial arrangements between the original registrant and the substitute. The original registrant's registration will be refunded, and the substitute must register as a new attendee by completing a new registration and secure housing. The substitute must register before the original registrant is refunded. In some cases, the original registrant’s registration category may differ from the substitute’s registration category and may result in a price difference.   
  • To initiate a substitution, please contact GBTA Registration Customer Service at gbtasupport@cvent.com with the following information: 
    • Original Registrant's name 
    • Original Registrant's email address 
    • Original Registrant's confirmation number 
    • Name and email address of the substitute 
  • GBTA Registration Customer Service will respond with further instructions. The GBTA Registration call center can be reached at +1 833 696 7547 or by email at gbtasupport@cvent.com. The call center hours of operations are 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM EST, Monday through Friday. 
• What is the cancellation policy? 
  • There will be a cancelation fee of 75% of the paid registration fee for cancellations received by April 26, 2021.  No refunds for cancellation will be issued beginning on April 27, 2021. If you have a serious reason for being unable to attend, you are welcome to petition for an exception to this policy. To do so, please email us to explain your situation, and include any documentation to support your case (documentation is optional but recommended). These petitions must be submitted by July 30, 2020 by 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, to be considered.  The decision regarding your petition may take up to one month after the event. There are no refunds for Opening reception tickets, charity donations, 5K Run/Walk, or membership fees obtained through registration. All cancellations requests must be submitted in writing to gbtasupport@cvent.com.  Cancellations and refunds will be processed in the same manner as original payment generally within 5-7 business days of the request.  The deadline for refunds is April 26, 2021. 
  • Cancelling your registration will not automatically cancel your housing reservation; however, GBTA reserves the right to cancel the room(s). Room(s) will be cancelled within 14 days if the room cancellation has not occurred. To cancel your hotel room(s), please contact conventionhousing@gbta.org. GBTA will not reimburse cancellation or no-show fees charged by the hotel. 
  • To cancel a registration please contact GBTA Registration Customer Service at gbtasupport@cvent.com.   
• What is in the GBTA Convention 2021 registration bags?   
  • Convention Program Book 
  • Pocket Program 
  • Exposition Floor Maps (Buyers only) 
  • Sponsor Pieces 
  • Exposition Raffle Card (Buyers only) 
• Am I allowed an extra registration bag? 
  • Check back with Main Registration on Wednesday afternoon.  

• Will I receive any credits for attending GBTA Convention 2021? 
  • Yes, all attendees who hold the GTP (Global Travel Professional) Certification will earn twelve (12) education credits for attending Convention education sessions, Center Stage and/or Exposition. For questions about your individual credits email pd@gbta.org.  

How many attendees does the GBTA Convention have?

• The GBTA Convention expects approximately 7,000+ attendees

How many exhibitors does the GBTA Convention have?

• The GBTA Convention expects approximately 400+ exhibiting companies

What events are scheduled for 2021 or 2022?

• Please visit gbta.org/events for more information on upcoming events 

• What are the Dates for the Convention 2022? 
  • August 13-17, 2022   
     
• Where is the Convention located? 
  • San Diego Convention Center – San Diego, California 
     
• When will registration/housing open? 
  • December 2021 
     
• When will exhibitor housing requests open? 
  • December 2021