Travel Weekly and TravelAge West recently announced that Bob Romano of Idyllwild and Riverside was selected from among hundreds of applicants to attend the fifth-annual Global Travel Marketplace, which took place at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale, Florida, July 9 to 11. GTM is a two-and-a-half day appointment-only event for top-producing travel advisors in North America and leading cruise, hotel, tour and destination suppliers seeking to conduct business face-to-face.

Only the top 17 percent of the nearly 700 applicants were selected to participate. “A GTM advisor is one that recognizes the importance of creating new business relationships and fostering existing ones, and understands how crucial it is to be well educated in this ever-changing industry,” says Jacqueline Hurst, director, Trade Recruitment and Engagement, Travel Weekly Events. “With up-to-date knowledge and valuable relationships in their arsenal, these advisors are fully equipped to provide each client with a unique experience, tailored to their travel preferences.”

Romano said, “This was the second time I attended and this year was the best yet in making great contacts to help me plan my clients trips.”