Preferred Travel of Naples Supports Maui Wildfire Relief While Attending Signature Travel Network Owners Conference

Posted: 08/12/2023

Preferred Travel of Naples, represented by Olga Placeres, Kristina & Kody Gear, aided Maui's wildfire relief at Signature's conference, emphasizing responsible tourism

Preferred Travel of Naples three owners, Olga Placeres, Kristina Gear, and Kody Gear had the opportunity to help support the Maui wildfire relief efforts while attending the Signature Travel Network Owners Conference on the island of Maui this past week.

During the conference, Preferred Travel of Naples and other attendees engaged in a day of service to the island, where they volunteered their time to sort donations and create personal hygiene kits to be distributed to the Maui Food Bank. Additionally, attendees brought much-needed supplies, totaling 7,000 pounds, from the mainland to support the recovery efforts.

The conference, taking place from September 6 to 9 at the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort in South Maui, raised over $400,000 and counting in donations through Signature's Travel Elevates silent auction and fundraisers. The conference's opening day saw representatives from the Hawaii tourism industry deliver a united message of the importance of supporting the recovery efforts.

"We are honored to have the opportunity to support Maui in its recovery from the wildfires," said Kristina Gear, Managing Director at Preferred Travel of Naples. "By participating in the Travel Elevates fundraiser and volunteering our time, we hope to make a meaningful impact on the community. It is crucial for us to showcase Maui's resilience and demonstrate that the island is open and ready to welcome travelers responsibly and safely."

Robyn Basso, the senior director of travel industry partnerships for the Hawaii Convention and Visitors Bureau, emphasized the need to keep residents employed and the local economy alive through mindful tourism. The surrounding areas of the affected area in Maui are set to officially reopen on October 8, according to a statement by Hawaii Governor Josh Green. However, Lahaina itself will remain fully closed to the public until further notice. Considering this, Signature Travel Network has emphasized the importance of responsible and respectful tourism to the island.

Preferred Travel of Naples recognizes the significance of tourism as the foundation of Maui's economy and encourages visitors to contribute to the recovery by bringing their tourism dollars back to the island. While certain areas may still be inaccessible due to the tragedy, there are numerous resorts, restaurants, and activities that are open for business and ready to welcome visitors.

"Maui needs our support to recover, and by responsibly visiting the island, we can contribute to its revitalization," stated Kody Gear, Managing Partner at Preferred Travel of Naples. "The Aloha spirit is resilient, and we invite everyone to embrace it as they explore the breathtaking beauty of Maui."

ABOUT PREFERRED TRAVEL OF NAPLES

Founded in 1984, Preferred Travel of Naples is a distinguished travel agency offering comprehensive worldwide travel services. With over 40 years of experience and a dedicated team of over 60 knowledgeable travel advisors, Preferred Travel of Naples is well-equipped to cater to clients' domestic and international travel needs. Their offices are conveniently located at 5801 Pelican Bay Blvd, Suite 205 in Naples, and 3960 Via Del Rey in the Vanderbilt Office Park in Bonita Springs. In addition, Preferred Travel of Naples has expanded its reach with offices in Ft. Lauderdale and Nantucket. For more information, please call (239) 261-1177 or visit www.preferrednaples.com.

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