IPW 2026 continues to highlight the strong international impact of its 2026 edition, with Visit Lauderdale using the global trade event to present the destination’s full tourism diversity to buyers, operators, and media from around the world.

Speaking in an interview with ABC MUNDIAL at the Broward County Convention Center, Caitlan Etchevers, Senior Corporate Communications Manager at Visit Lauderdale, said the destination is experiencing strong international momentum during IPW 2026.

“We just finished the outdoor lunch and it was a success for us. We are very happy,” she said.

Etchevers emphasized the significant international media and buyer presence at this year’s event, noting participation from key source markets.

“We have a lot of media from different countries, more than 500 journalists, and a large number of buyers. Brazil, China, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Canada are very strongly represented this year,” she added.

IPW as the leading inbound travel trade marketplace

IPW 2026 is widely recognized as the leading inbound travel trade marketplace in the United States. The event gathers more than 5,200 delegates from over 70 countries, including international buyers, tour operators, destinations, airlines, hotels, and travel media.

Organized by the U.S. Travel Association, IPW generates more than 100,000 pre-scheduled business meetings and supports billions of dollars in future travel to the United States, positioning it as one of the most influential B2B platforms in the global tourism industry.

Strong international presence for Visit Lauderdale

Visit Lauderdale is participating in IPW 2026 alongside 33 partners, including hotels, cities, attractions, and tourism-related companies.

“Everyone understood the importance of the international market. This is not just domestic tourism. Greater Fort Lauderdale is increasingly looking outward to the world, and that is clearly visible here at the convention center,” Etchevers said.

Beyond its main exhibition space, several cities within the county are also hosting activations and events for international visitors, including Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, and Hollywood.

A destination for all traveler profiles

Etchevers highlighted Greater Fort Lauderdale’s positioning as a multigenerational destination with offerings for all types of travelers.

“We have a bit of everything. From luxury experiences to affordable options for those who just want to enjoy the beach, parks, or live music,” she explained.

Among the destination’s key assets are its beaches, waterways, nightlife, and its positioning as the “Yachting Capital of the World.”

She also highlighted the growing luxury hotel portfolio, including properties such as Pier Sixty-Six, Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel, and Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale.

Growth in the Argentine market

One of the most notable trends mentioned by Etchevers is the sustained growth of the Argentine market in South Florida.

“We have seen an increase of around 20%, and you can really notice it on the streets,” she said.

She also suggested that potential easing of travel requirements for Argentine visitors could further boost inbound travel to the United States in the coming years.

Connectivity as a competitive advantage

Etchevers also emphasized the ease of access from Miami International Airport to Fort Lauderdale.

“Access is very easy thanks to Brightline and Tri-Rail. Many travelers arrive in Miami and are here in just 20 to 30 minutes,” she explained.

This connectivity, she noted, allows the destination to attract long-haul travelers from markets such as Australia and Japan, in addition to strong regional flows from Latin America.

“We are very happy with the support we are receiving and everything IPW is generating for Greater Fort Lauderdale,” she concluded.