TORONTO — The 19th annual Let’s Talk Travel was a two-night virtual event showcasing product and destination updates, and COVID-19 operations information from five well-known suppliers.

Taking part in the July 22 – 23 event were AmaWaterways, Visit Myrtle Beach, Tourcan Vacations, Universal Parks and Resorts Vacations and Windstar Cruises.

Travel agent sales are crucial, said the suppliers. Neil Dudley, AmaWaterways’ BDM for Central and Eastern Canada, said 98% of AmaWaterways’ business in Canada comes through travel agents.

He urged agents to check out AmaWaterways’ health and safety protocols, and its new product offerings. The river cruise line just this month became the first U.S.-based river cruise line to resume sailings, with a series of charters in Germany for local passengers.

Meanwhile Kimberly Hartley with Visit Myrtle Beach said the popular SC destination began reopening at the start of July. “Three weeks ago Myrtle Beach slowly started to reopen. We know the Canada-USA border isn’t open … yet,” said Hartley.

Complete details about what Myrtle Beach is doing to keep visitors safe during these times, including a ‘Visit Myrtle Beach Responsibly’ video, can be seen here.