The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) has unveiled its “Picture Yourself In…” Sweepstakes, offering participants the chance to win a $10,000 travel certificate. The certificate can be used by the winner and a guest to explore their choice of destination: China, Colombia, or Madrid, Spain, through a USTOA member tour operator.

This sweepstakes is part of USTOA’s “Picture Yourself In…” campaign, supported by Turkish Airlines, travel insurer Crum & Forster, and destination partners China National Tourist Office New York, Colombia, the country of beauty, and Only in Madrid. The initiative encourages travelers to envision themselves purchasing local fashion items while visiting these destinations, thereby supporting artisans and small businesses that are vital to local economies.

Open to U.S. residents aged 21 or older, the sweepstakes is now accepting entries at ustoa.com/pictureyourselfin. Participants must complete the official entry form, providing their full name, city, state, and email address. The entry period runs until October 31, 2024, and only one entry per person is allowed throughout the sweepstakes.

“USTOA is excited to shine a light on the stylish aspects of traveling sustainably,” said Terry Dale, president and CEO of USTOA. “When you’re purposeful about your purchases, your travel adventures live on in your everyday life. Imagine pulling a piece from your closet and immediately recalling the sights, rhythms, tastes, and echoes of a foreign land. Not to mention the people you met—perhaps even the artisans whose hands carefully crafted what you’re about to wear.”

Dale continued, “This sweepstakes encourages consumers to consider the good they can do when they shop local, not only at home but around the world. We’re proud that our tour operators showcase authentic shopping opportunities and help travelers find items to cherish long after they return home.”

To kick off the sweepstakes in a lively and interactive manner, USTOA set up shop at Detroit’s Eastern Market on September 14, where shoppers were invited to take a virtual trip to China, Colombia, and Madrid, Spain. Using an AR (augmented reality) Mirror, powered by ZERO10, visitors could see themselves dressed in traditional attire from these destinations. From a Chinese Hanfu and a Spanish silk mantón to a macramé bucket bag from Colombia, participants experienced the beauty of artisan craftsmanship firsthand. The event encouraged them to rethink souvenir shopping, highlighting how globally sourced, handmade items are not only meaningful purchases but also timeless keepsakes that evoke lasting memories.

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