NATIONAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK
Visit Baltimore celebrated the 40th anniversary of National Travel and Tourism Week ( NTTW ) May 7-13 with a panel discussion , a networking event and a student culinary competition . The theme for 2023 was “ Travel Forward ,” spotlighting travel ’ s essential role in stimulating economic growth , cultivating diverse communities , creating job opportunities , inspiring new businesses and uniting millions of individuals through travel .
A kick-off event at the Visitor Center began with a proclamation from Mayor Brandon M . Scott and remarks from Maryland State Secretary of Commerce Kevin Anderson , Maryland State Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks and U . S . Travel ’ s senior vice president of government relations Erik Hansen .
A 45-minute panel discussion followed , highlighting major happenings within Baltimore ’ s tourism industry and the impact that these changes will have on residents and visitors alike . Al Hutchinson served as moderator with questions that focused on tourism ’ s essential role in stimulating economic development , supporting diverse communities , workforce development and accessibility . Panelists for the event represented key sectors of the tourism and travel industry , including : Amtrak Director of Portfolio Management Brian
Traylor , BWI Marshall Airport President & CEO Ricky Smith , Baltimore Convention Center Executive Director Mac Campbell and owner of Cuples Tea House Lynette Dodson .
Later in the day Visit Baltimore hosted a networking event in partnership with Watermark Cruises . Our partners and industry colleagues joined us for an evening of light fare , conversation and scenic views of the Harbor aboard the ship .
Another featured event during the week was the second annual Baltimore CTE Food , Beverage & Baking Competition . This day-long session exposed Baltimore City Public School students to career opportunities in hospitality and tourism . The event took place at the Hyatt Regency Baltimore , the Baltimore Convention Center , the Visitor Center and Watermark Cruises . Culinary students had the opportunity to work in a professional kitchen under the leadership of Chef James Barrett at the Hyatt Regency and had their food judged by a star-studded panel of local chefs and experts from H3irloom Food Group , Magdalena , Loving Spoon Collective , Our Time Kitchen , Fogo de Chão and Miss Shirley ’ s Cafe . An etiquette lunch was provided by Sodexo Live ! and a diverse group of industry experts provided career advice and guidance for the students .
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