Escape to the Desert for a Culinary Challenge at
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
Please join Millennials in Travel at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage for an elevated afternoon of connection and culinary creativity. On Thursday, September 3 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, guests are invited to experience a lively, hands-on Desert Culinary Challenge set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Coachella Valley. This interactive event brings together hospitality professionals for an engaging and social experience featuring chef-led stations, collaborative competition, and a celebration of local flavors.
Perched high above the desert floor, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage offers a refined yet relaxed setting, blending panoramic views with warm hospitality, an ideal environment to connect, unwind, and be inspired.
Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage and Marriott Luxury Group, guests will enjoy hosted beverages, signature culinary tastings, and complimentary valet parking.
Space is limited to 30 attendees and the cost to attend is $15 per person. As a reminder, Millennials in Travel members can use their MIT ID for complimentary access to this event.
Extend your stay!
For those that want to keep the party going, Millennials in Travel guests receive a special rate starting at $219++ per night for stays from September 1-3, 2026, including a waived resort fee and complimentary valet parking. You can confirm your reservation HERE with Corporate/Promo Code: K6Y.
For those extending their stay into the holiday weekend, 20% off Best Available Rates will apply. Please direct inquiries to The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage team for extensions.
This is an open invitation, so feel free to invite your millennial colleagues and industry friends.
Sincerely,
Your Southern California MIT Teams
Orange County:
Michelle Parent, Valerie Wilson Travel + MIT Officer of Development
Olivia Bennett, Visit Newport Beach + MIT Officer of Communications
Nadia Bess, Besst Travels + MIT Officer of Events
Dan Baumgartner, Balboa Bay Resort + MIT Officer of Membership
San Diego:
Janelle Ruhumuliza, Lilacs & Chai + MIT Officer of Development
Kristen Slizgi, The Luxury Travelist + MIT Officer of Communications
Mary Caguioa, Mindfree Travel + MIT Officer of Events
Los Angeles:
Marcus Hemphill, Conrad Punta De Mita & Hilton Los Cabos + MIT Officer of Development
Nicholas Lobberecht + MIT Officer of Membership
Nick Hofstadter, Upgraded Travel + MIT Officer of Events

