SALEM, Ohio— The group travel industry has long benefited from the diversity of traveling groups. That was never more apparent than at the recent African American Travel Conference (AATConf), where travel planners from more than 20 states met travel industry delegates to plan future tours.

AATConf celebrated its 23rd year with a gathering that included many travel groups new to the organization.

“It was a pleasure to meet so many new travel planners from across the country,” said conference founder Charlie Presley. “Our purpose is to promote group travel by connecting travel groups with the travel industry, and that was accomplished.”

AATConf sponsors included Destination Cleveland, Chesapeake Convention and Visitors Bureau, Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Louisville Tourism, Pinstripes Bistro Bowling and Bocce, Visit Williamsburg, Branson Restaurants/IMAX, Cartersville Bartow Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

The African American Travel Conference 2024 will be hosted by the Chesapeake Convention and Visitors Bureau. For information or to register, go to aatconline.com or call 800-628-0993.