As we prepare to gather in Denver later this month (May 19-23) for the 50th edition of IPW—the most important event on the inbound tour and travel industry’s calendar—the INBOUND Report shares recollections of and about the event from those who have been a part of IPW (formerly Pow Wow) over the years. This week, we feature the recollections of two well known tour and travel industry leaders: tour operator Tilo Krause-Dünow, owner, Canusa Touristik; and Sheelagh Wylie, vice president, business development and head of sales, Midways Attractions, Merlin Entertainments.
Tilo Krause-Dünow: “It was in New Orleans when IPW was in September and all the participants started leaving Tuesday. I inquired as to what was happening and was told a hurricane was expected. I said why are they leaving, that’s an attraction … it’s incredible … why are people leaving. The next day I knew why. Wind whipped trees sideways and I was scared to death. I’ll never get near another hurricane again.”
Sheelagh Wylie: “One of my favorite memories of IPW was taking the last ferry over to Ellis Island with two of my favorite colleagues for the final night of Pow Wow 2005 in New York City. We were exhausted after days of meetings and networking and considered not going, but rallied at the last minute. Lady Liberty welcomed us in the harbor as we sailed to the island. The event was designed to promote New York as the world’s second home, featuring food and entertainment from around the world. The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display with the Statue of Liberty in the background.”
