As Miami prepares to welcome the world on September 17 and 18, WTE Miami 2025 is set to reaffirm its role as a meeting point for the global travel and tourism industry

Positioned at the crossroads of the Americas, WTE Miami offers unique opportunities for growth and connection. In this exclusive interview, WTE Miami Director Javier Perez Palencia shares plans for the show and his insights for the future.

Could you tell us about this year’s edition of WTE Miami?
This edition of WTE Miami will welcome over 200 exhibitors representing more than 30 countries. Our international presence continues to grow, with strong participation from Latin America, Europe, the Caribbean, and emerging destinations in Africa and Asia.
We will host over 2,000 travel professionals, including a curated group of top-tier hosted buyers from the U.S., from leading travel agencies, tour operators, and MICE planners. Key exhibitors include major destinations, airlines, DMCs, hotel groups, and tourism boards, alongside strong institutional support from Miami International Airport and the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.

How has the focus of the show shifted this year?
This year, we’ve placed emphasis on business outcomes and curated networking. We expanded our hosted buyer program and added more pre-scheduled appointments to drive ROI for our exhibitors.
The strategy is clear: we’re positioning WTE as the most effective gateway to the U.S. outbound and inbound travel markets, by maximizing high-quality business meetings and creating long-term partnerships.

How is WTE attracting top buyers in the industry?
We’ve implemented a strategic outreach and qualification program, working closely with international partners, tourism boards, and industry associations to identify top buyers.

What makes Miami such a strategic location for a travel show like this?
Miami is more than just a beautiful destination, it’s a global gateway. It’s uniquely positioned at the crossroads of North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean, with deep air connectivity, a vibrant tourism ecosystem, and a strong international business culture.
It’s also a city that embodies multiculturalism, innovation, and hospitality—values that align perfectly with the travel industry. For international destinations seeking to tap into the U.S. market, Miami is the most strategic point.

What are some of the current challenges facing the travel industry and how is it overcoming them?
The travel industry continues to face macroeconomic pressures, rising costs, staffing shortages, and geopolitical uncertainty. In the U.S., visa delays, labor constraints, and an evolving consumer mindset are all factors. However, the industry has shown remarkable resilience. Digital transformation is optimizing operations across the board, while sustainability is evolving into a core business imperative.

Do you have any predictions for the future of the industry?
Looking ahead, we believe experiential, high-value travel will grow, with travelers seeking personalization and authenticity. Destinations and companies that embrace innovation and partnerships will lead the next phase of global tourism recovery.

What are your goals for WTE Miami this year?
For WTE Miami 2025, our goal is to double down on quality: more curated matchmaking and deeper engagement.
In the long term, we envision WTE becoming the must-attend B2B travel event in the U.S. for international destinations, a key platform to grow business, build relationships, and shape the future of global travel from the heart of Miami.

Do you have a message for the industry?
Resilience and reinvention define our industry. We believe this is a time of opportunity. Travel is not just recovering, it’s evolving.
WTE Miami is here to serve as a bridge between markets, cultures, and professionals. Join us at WTE Miami and help shape the future of global tourism—from Miami to the world.