PITTSBURGH — If the winter chill has you dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, cobblestone European streets, or the rugged beauty of an African safari, you won’t have to travel far to start making those dreams a reality.

The David L. Lawrence Convention Center is once again preparing to transform into a global hub as the country’s largest travel booking show returns.

The Pittsburgh Travel Showcase, presented by AAA Travel, is returning for its ninth-annual event.

Area residents can trade the gray skies of the Tri-State Area for a glimpse at all seven continents — and all under one roof.

The three-day event is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Jan. 23-24 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Jan. 25.

It promises to be a world of possibilities.

AAA Travel data indicates that the itch to explore is at an all-time high.

And this year’s event is designed to be the ultimate cure for wanderlust.

Spanning more than 100,000 square feet, the showcase brings together international, national and regional travel representatives, offering a one-stop-shop experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.

“For close to a decade, AAA Travel has been bringing the world to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center,” stated Terri Petrick, president of AAA East Central. “This year promises to be a standout event, so bring your travel dreams and let us turn them into a reality.”

For those who prefer to look before they leap, the event features three Destination Theaters.

Throughout the weekend, 43 presentations will provide an in-depth look at everything from luxury cruises and train excursions to all-inclusive resorts and group tours.

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or are planning your very first “bucket-list” getaway, the insight provided by these industry experts will be invaluable, according to officials.

Perhaps the biggest draw for local residents is the access to seasoned AAA Travel advisers.

In an age of endless online scrolling, having a trusted professional to navigate budgets, schedules and logistics can make the difference between a stressful trip and a seamless memory.

These advisers will be available on-site to help attendees book their trips right then and there, often with access to exclusive showcase-only deals.

The world’s top travel suppliers will provide exclusive three-days only discount travel offers to those in attendance.

There are perks for members and newcomers as well.

While the event is open to everyone, AAA members can take advantage of special savings and perks.

And for those who have not yet joined the club?

Well, AAA is offering special incentives for new Classic Primary Memberships for those who sign up during the showcase.

Additional incentives to attend this year’s showcase includes the AAA Travel Store, offering a wide array of travel essentials including accessories, luggage and travel bags that will be on display and available for purchase.

Free luggage will be available by AAA Travel for those who book and deposit on the days of the showcase.

Guests will receive a hard-side carry-on spinner; a carry-on spinner and matching upright spinner or 2 complete hard side spinner sets.

A minimum travel purchase is required, while supplies last, officials stated.

There will be grand prize giveaways throughout the event as well, organizers announced.

Attendees can register to win one of many valuable prizes, including a four-night Mackinac Island and Frankenmuth Oktoberfest Motorcoach Tour for two.

Additional grand prizes will include a $1,000 AAA Travel gift certificate or two Delta airline tickets to any Florida city that Delta services.

AAA members can explore the discounts, rewards and insurance benefits available to them with club representatives on hand at the showcase.

Everyone is invited to attend the ninth-annual event, officials exclaimed, noting tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at PittsburghTravelShowcase.com or at the convention center box office.

For showcase information, contact Ida D’Errico by phone at (724) 260-5331 or through e-mail at ida@pittsburghtravelshowcase.com.

For AAA information, contact Jim Garrity, director of public affairs, by phone at (412) 365-7274 or through e-mail at Garrity.Jim@ace.aaa.com.

Discount admission coupons are available at AAA branches, officials noted.