Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum: Full Schedule

12:30pm PDT

Expanding Your Agency Through People, Clients and Technology

Sunday March 30, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT

Join Skip Fortier, Vice President of Network Expansion at Avoya Travel, for an insightful 60-minute session packed with actionable strategies to accelerate your business growth in 2025 and beyond. With over 30 years of industry expertise, Skip will share proven ideas and practical suggestions to help you thrive in the evolving travel landscape.

Speakers

Skip Fortier

Vice President Network Expansion, Avoya Travel

Skip Fortier, Vice President of Network Expansion for Avoya Travel has been in the travel industry for over 30 years. He is a Navy Veteran and has worked in sales for United Airlines and the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. For 10 years Fortier managed sales forces at The Cruise Web and... Read More →

Sunday March 30, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Concorde C

Educational Session

2:00pm PDT

A New Era of Excellence in Travel Education

Sunday March 30, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT

Concorde C

Are you a travel agent new to the travel industry? Do you know someone who is new to the industry? We designed this session just for YOU!

Avoya Travel Academy offers an award-winning program recognized with a Travel Weekly Magellan Award – the Travel Agent Education Certification (TAEC™) course (previously known as Travel Agent Education Powered by Avoya).

Join us as we dive into “WHY” a solid foundation in this industry is so important and the educational experience offered by Avoya Travel Academy.

Developed by industry experts with over 125+ years of combined experience.
Course curriculum contains over 120 lessons. To include topics on industry overview, sales, geography, supplier education, marketing, accessible travel certification, plus much, much more.
The course also includes the in-house, industry recognized Travel Agent Education Certification (TAEC) exam.
The program is self-paced and available in both written and audio formats, typically requiring 40 to 45 hours to complete.

Our graduates are consistently outperforming their peers who are new to the world of travel with no foundational education - 50% higher closing rates and 50% greater commission earnings.

PLUS, the Travel Agent Education Certification program offered by Avoya Travel Academy includes travel industry organization memberships from CLIA (IAM) and ASTA (FTP).

NOTE: The content offered in Avoya Travel Academy is travel industry specific, NOT Avoya Network specific. As such, you would not be learning about the Avoya Network Host Agency, and there is no requirement to affiliate once education has been completed.

Speakers

Gina Hoyt, MCC

Senior Director, Avoya Travel Academy, Avoya Travel

With over 25 years in the travel industry, previous owner of a million-dollar agency, Gina is an innovative leader dedicated to shaping the next generation of travel professionals. As Senior Director of the Avoya Travel Academy, she now drives the development of cutting-edge education... Read More →

Sunday March 30, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Concorde C

Educational Session

2:00pm PDT

Group Travel from A to Z

Sunday March 30, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Concorde B

Groups can represent significant and lucrative business opportunities for your agency if done right. This extended session will cover Groups from A to Z with a focus on finding and servicing group business (including their unique needs); tips and tools to streamline and properly manage groups of any size without overwhelming your agency; and the contractual elements and language to keep your agency and clients safeguarded.

Moderators

Amy Leon

Leisure and Luxury Specialist, Adventures by Amy

After saying goodbye to corporate America, Amy Leon founded Adventures by Amy in 2016, where she would share her love of travel while helping others plan their next big adventure. Since its inception, known as one of the premier destination wedding specialists on the East Coast, as... Read More →

Speakers

Kelley Hogan

District Sales Manager, Scenic Cruises

Kelley brings a wealth of experience in the travel and cruise industries, having held significant roles in business development and sales management. She served as Business Development Manager and National Account Manager at Travel Leaders, and as Sales Manager and Partner Marketing... Read More →

Jeffrey Ment

Managing Partner, Ment Law Group, PC

Jeffrey Ment provides legal counsel to travel companies around the world. He has been in the travel industry for more than thirty-five years. Prior to law school, he gained valuable experience while working as a travel advisor, tour guide and sales manager for two airlines. Mr... Read More →

Dian Holland

District Sales Manager - Western USA, Jamaica Tourist Board

Dian Holland is Business Development Manager for the Jamaica Tourist Board with overall responsibility for the Western USA, including the states of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.Dian works closely with retail... Read More →

Erin Miller

Business Development Manager, ALG Vacations

Erin started her tenure at Apple Vacations over 17 years ago in Customer Service before transitioning into the Sales Department. Within sales, Erin has led several different roles like Business Development Specialist for the East Coast, BDM of Central PA & MD and moving into the Host... Read More →

Veranda Adkins

Owner, Travel Legacy, Inc.

Veranda Adkins is a renowned travel industry expert, coach, and influential speaker with over 22 years of experience. As the founder of Travel Legacy, a multi-million-dollar agency, Veranda is dedicated to empowering mid-level travel agents to launch and scale their businesses. She... Read More →

Sunday March 30, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session

3:15pm PDT

The BEST Solution for your Organization's Travel Education Needs

Sunday March 30, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm PDT

Concorde C

Is your organization looking for an all-in-one, ready-to-use education solution for your new-to-travel entrepreneurs?

Our Travel Academy – is your Turnkey Education Solution. Join us as we dive into “WHY” Our Travel Academy is the BEST solution for your organization, as well as your new-to-travel entrepreneurs!

Over 100 ready to use lessons contained in the Travel Agent Education Certification (TAEC™) program.
Course material created and designed by travel industry experts with over 125+ years of combined experience.
A comprehensive, self-paced program available in both written and audio formats, allowing your students to tailor their learning experience.
Includes the industry recognized Travel Agent Education Certification (TAEC) exam.
Students graduating 31% faster compared to other travel agent certification programs.

PLUS, graduates are consistently outperforming their peers with no foundational education - 50% higher closing rates and 50% greater commission earnings.

Speakers

Gina Hoyt, MCC

Senior Director, Avoya Travel Academy, Avoya Travel

Sunday March 30, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm PDT
Concorde C

Educational Session

9:15am PDT

Automation & Innovation for Your Agency

Monday March 31, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT

Concorde A

New tools and technology can positively impact your workflow, dramatically streamlining your day-to-day while helping you better allocate time toward selling and retaining more clients. Join us as we discuss the back-office tools designed to eliminate your pain points while taking your business to the next level!

Moderators

Andrew Hallfrisch

Owner, Northstar Travel Company

I'm Andrew, and I'm a travel enthusiast living and working in Woodbury, Minnesota. You might find me planning my next adventure while sipping coffee, or poring over maps, dreaming of far-off places. I'm also the owner of Northstar Travel Company, where I'm fortunate to work alongside... Read More →

Speakers

Scott Rutz

VP of Commercial, Founding Team, Travefy

Scott Rutz is a part of the founding team at Travefy, where he currently serves as Vice President of Commercial, overseeing sales, marketing, and customer success. With a background in marketing and advertising, Scott excels in bridging innovative technology with leading travel and... Read More →

David Shull

CEO & Co-Founder, Tern

David is the CEO and co-founder of Tern, a platform transforming how travel advisors run their businesses. By modernizing and integrating their tech, Tern helps advisors save time, grow revenue, and deliver incredible client experiences.Before Tern, David was the first employee at... Read More →

Antonio Gonzalez Gil

Head of Sales, PriceAgencies

Antonio Gonzalez is a dynamic travel industry leader with extensive experience in B2B sales, destination management, and guiding. As Head of U.S. Sales at PriceAgencies, a division of Price Travel Holdings, he has been instrumental in expanding its exclusive Travel Advisor booking... Read More →

Joe Shomperlen

Vice President of Business Development, Trisept Solutions

Joe Shomperlen currently serves as Vice President of Business Development for Trisept Solutions. Trisept Solutions is the creator of VAX VacationAccess, the award-winning leisure travel marketplace that brings together 160,000+ travel agents with 60+ leisure-focused travel suppliers... Read More →

Monday March 31, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Concorde A

Educational Session

9:15am PDT

Growth Strategies to Maximize Your Destination Partnerships

Monday March 31, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT

Concorde B

“Where do you want to go?” is likely the first qualifying question your asking clients when vacation planning, which is why it’s important to be immersed and knowledgeable on destinations around the globe! In this session, we’ll explore how travel advisors can successfully collaborate with Tourism Boards, Convention & Visitors Bureaus (CVB’s) and other Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs). Talking points will include: Why specialization and familiarity will strengthen your sales probability (and streamlining your qualification process); what role the DMO plays in supporting your goals; how this relationship will elevate your ability to curate unique itineraries for an enhanced in-destination experience; expand your cooperative destination marketing for a mutually beneficial partnership!

Moderators

Stacey Cabell, CTIE

Owner, Starstuff Travel, LLC

Stacey Cabell is the owner of Starstuff Travel based out of Toms River, NJ. She started the agency that specializes in Family Travel back in 2013 after deciding she wanted to help other families create the same amazing memories she had with her own family. Shortly after opening the... Read More →

Speakers

Robyn Basso

Senior Director Travel Industry Partnerships, The Hawaiian Islands

As Senior Director of Travel Industry Partnerships, Robyn leads the development and execution of HVCBʻs sales and marketing strategy designed to promote travel trade growth from the United States. Her responsibilities include managing the organization’s travel trade training... Read More →

Heather Ruhle

Tourism Development Manager, Visit Anchorage

A lifelong Alaskan who can be found in the outdoors all year round. Boating, hiking and fishing in the Prince William Sound all summer long and skiing, fat tire biking or camping in the backcountry looking for Northern Lights during the winter are all regular activities. She loves... Read More →

Nikolina Banovac Matana

Marketing Manager, Dubrovnik Tourism Board

I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Dubrovnik, followed by a graduate degree in Public Relations. During my studies, I gained work experience as an information officer at the Dubrovnik Tourist Board and as a tour guide, after which I transitioned to the Dubrovnik-Neretva... Read More →

Andrés Martínez Reynoso

Director, Mexican Caribbean Tourism Board

Monday March 31, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session

9:15am PDT

Luxury Travel: Tips to Sell Next Level Travel

Monday March 31, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT

Concorde C

Learn the psychology of the affluent traveler and the secrets to selling luxury travel. Hear insights on selling luxury travel; understanding how to cultivate business within this lucrative niche; tap into the mind of today’s luxury traveler; explore their wants and interests in any experience and how you can secure your role as their trusted consultant.

Moderators

Camille Jocsak, ITA, CTC, MITWA

President and Founder, Planned 2 Perfection Limited

As a purpose-driven entrepreneur, my journey has unfolded over three decades across corporate, diverse services, and philanthropy. In the realm of services, I have been actively involved in sectors such as hospitality, event planning, and personalized travel experiences, where my... Read More →

Speakers

Paola Robinson

Luxury Leisure Sales Manager, Salterra Resort & Spa

Paola Robinson is a member of the pre-opening team for Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, opening in South Caicos, Turks & Caicos Islands.Almost 20 years ago, in January 2006 Paola transferred from The Ritz-Carlton, in Mexico, to become an instrumental cog for the recently... Read More →

Ian Braun

Sr. Regional Sales Manager, Unique Vacations (Sandals and Beaches Resorts)

Bio: Ian Braun, Sr. Regional Sales Manager for the Western Region, began his Sandals and Beaches journey seven years ago as the BDM for MO/KS/NE. He currently resides in Springfield, MO where he and his wife are enjoying life with their two small children.

Susie Albin-Najera

Director of Leisure Travel & Strategic Partnerships, U.S. Market, Los Cabos Tourism Board

Susie Albin-Najera is Manager, North America Leisure Travel of Los Cabos Tourism Board and operates the Los Angeles office of Los Cabos, one of the top destinations in the world. Her primary role includes innovative destination marketing, new business development, curated travel advisor... Read More →

Grace Grillo

Owner, Grace's Distinctive Properties

Monday March 31, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am PDT
Concorde C

Educational Session

10:30am PDT

Curating Authentic Holiday Experiences with DMC Partners

Monday March 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am PDT

Concorde A

With more and more clients seeking out authentic and unique experiences, there’s never been a better time to partner with local destination management companies (DMCs). Come learn how the expertise of a local DMC can take your clients vacation from ordinary to extraordinary. From transportation to hidden gems to group management, there’s so much to discover (and easy ways to earn).

Moderators

Kara Brown, CTA

Travel Specialist, Experience Culture Travel

Kara Brown is a travel specialist and the owner of Experience Culture Travel, where she designs culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path itineraries for her clients. With nearly nine years in the travel industry, she frequently partners with Destination Management Companies (DMCs... Read More →

Speakers

Kiran Nambiar

Sr. Vice President Sales, North America, ANZCRO – Australia & New Zealand DMC

With 30 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Kiran is a business development specialist who has successfully led and managed sales and marketing operations in multiple markets across Asia, Europe, and North America. Kiran's mission is to promote and enhance the... Read More →

Karen Hampton

Director, Barton Hill & Armchair

Karen has worked in different parts of the travel industry in many different roles for the last (very nearly) 40 years. Given the opportunity to buy an inbound Tour Operator and Destination Management Company in 2011 her abilities and skills have been pointed in this direction.Working... Read More →

Veronica Bravo

CEO, Trips SouthAmerica

Veronica Bravo is the CEO and co-owner of Trips SouthAmerica, a premier travel company dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences across South America. With over 15 years in the tourism industry, Veronica has held leadership roles in marketing, product development, and sales... Read More →

David Black

Head of Global Sales, Island Routes

David Black is a seasoned leader in travel, tourism, and hospitality, with over 30 years of experience driving revenue growth, forging strategic partnerships, and creating innovative solutions. Known for blending creativity with data-driven strategies, David consistently delivers... Read More →

Monday March 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Concorde A

Educational Session

10:30am PDT

Getting to YES Faster! Personality Selling with Bulls, Owls, Lambs, and Tigers!

Monday March 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am PDT

Concorde B

Unlock the key to effortless sales and seamless communication in travel planning (and life!) Join the President of Vacation Planners, Jenn Lee, for an insightful webinar to transform how you connect with clients and understand yourself. Delve into the world of four distinct personality types – Bulls, Owls, Lambs, and Tigers – and discover how this knowledge can dramatically boost your success as a travel advisor.
You can elevate your client relationships, boost your sales performance, and transform your approach to travel advising. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a significant edge!

Speakers

Jenn Lee

President & Chief Marketing Officer, Travel Planners International & Vacation Planners

Monday March 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session

10:30am PDT

Legalities for Your Travel Business

Monday March 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am PDT

Concorde C

Join us for an informative presentation focused on the legal side of your travel business. This all-encompassing session will cover a wide-range of topics to give your agency a 360-degree approach to minimizing risks! Topics will include: client contracts/liability waivers and other legal documents; E&O Insurance; IC/employee terms and conditions; client crisis management and more!

Speakers

Jeffrey Ment

Managing Partner, Ment Law Group, PC

Monday March 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Concorde C

Educational Session

8:30am PDT

From Land to Sea (or River): Selling the Cruise & Tour Experience

Tuesday April 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT

Concorde B

Combining a land and sea (or river) experience is one of the most memorable opportunities for your client (and a commission opportunity for you)! In this session we’ll discuss why this is the perfect combination of travel; the profile client; unique itineraries and key destinations; what’s included and not and more!

Moderators

Dave Meihoefer

VP of Sales and Engagement, Travel Planners International

Dave is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the travel industry. Prior to joining TPI, he held key positions at renowned companies such as Celebrity Cruises, Collette Vacations, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where he excelled in sales, account management, and... Read More →

Speakers

TJ McAvoy

Business Development Manager, Globus family of brands & Avalon Waterways

David Fredericks

SVP Sales & Marketing, Century Cruises

Jessica Mooney

Sr. Manager, Channel Strategy, Celebrity Cruises

Jessica Mooney's 11-year tenure at Celebrity Cruises has spanned various roles in the Sales department. She started as a sales manager in Virginia and the DC metro area collaborating with advisors to help build their businesses. Later she joined the Celebrity Sales Training Team and... Read More →

Nicholas Boekdrukker

Managing Director, LGT Golf

Nicholas Boekdrukker is the Managing director and owner of LGT Golf, a boutique luxury golf tour operator and DMC. A winner of the World Golf Awards “Best Inbound Golf Tour Operator for 5 consecutive years, LGT Golf delivers a unique program of golf itineraries for river cruise... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session

8:30am PDT

Get Covered: Mastering the Process of Selling and Understanding Travel Insurance

Tuesday April 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT

Versailles

Travel agents play a pivotal role in ensuring clients understand the importance of travel insurance while staying within their professional boundaries. This session focuses on defining the roles of agents, clients, and insurance providers in the insurance process, integrating insurance into the booking workflow, and protecting your agency through clear communication and documentation. Additionally, we’ll explore the importance of understanding the travel insurance sales process, providing a general overview of various policy types to better serve clients without diving into coverage details. Walk away with practical tips to enhance your processes, mitigate risks, and build client trust.

Moderators

Sheila Folk

CEO, Travel Industry Solutions

Sheila Folk, with over 20 years of experience in technology, product development, and hospitality industry management, has become an expert in customer attraction and retention. She previously held leadership roles in an international association, focusing on standards, certification... Read More →

Speakers

Justin Poehler

Chief Commercial Officer, IMG

Justin Poehler, with more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, has served as the Chief Commercial Officer for IMG since August 2023. In this executive leadership role, Justin oversees the company's commercial strategy and plays an integral part in leading revenue-based... Read More →

Jeffrey Ment

Managing Partner, Ment Law Group, PC

Brandon Hughbanks

Senior Travel Insurance Specialist, Travel Insurance Center

Brandon Hughbanks is a Senior Travel Insurance Specialist at Travel Insurance Center, bringing 18 years of experience to the industry. Passionate about helping clients find the right coverage for their travel needs, Brandon combines his expertise with a genuine commitment to service... Read More →

Carlos Cividanes

Vice President of Sales, TravelSafe Insurance

Carlos Cividanes came to the TravelSafe team in February of 2008. He brought with him almost 25 years of direct Travel Industry experience, as well as, a lifetime of experience in the Travel Community. Instilled with a love for travel by his father, who was Varig Brazilian Airlines... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Versailles

Educational Session

8:30am PDT

UNPACKING Marketing Strategies for Travel Agents

Tuesday April 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT

Concorde A

Like packing a bag efficiently for a trip, what goes into your marketing plan, is just as important as what gets left out. Using parallels between packing light for travel, and creating an effective marketing strategy, Mary Charleson, also known as the “Carry-on Queen” will unpack her top marketing tips for travel agents, emphasizing the strategic use of social media and email marketing. Informed by travel agent research, interviews, and case studies, plus Mary’s observations on marketing trends, this session will both educate and entertain.

Speakers

Mary Charleson, MBA, CSP

Marketing Educator, Speaker & Strategist, fiveminutemarketing.com

Mary Charleson, is a marketing speaker, educator and strategist. She is the author of www.fiveminutemarketing.com blog and weekly newsletter. Mary has authored two books: Word of Mouth Mouse & Mobile and Five-Minute Marketing and is a 15-year member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers.Mary’s career spans over 20 years in media and marketing. She holds an MBA in marketing... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:30am PDT
Concorde A

Educational Session

9:45am PDT

AI for the Non-Techie Travel Advisor

Tuesday April 1, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT

Versailles

AI is transforming the way travel agents work, making it an essential tool for staying competitive in today’s market. In this 101 session, discover how AI can revolutionize your approach to communication, streamline quoting processes, and elevate your social media presence. Learn practical, actionable ways to enhance your services and grow your brand with AI—no tech expertise required, just an open mind.

Speakers

Shayla Northcutt

Owner, Northcutt Travel Agency

Shayla Northcutt is the proud CEO of Northcutt Travel Agency located in Houston Texas with team members throughout the state of Texas. She started her own Agency in Jan of 2017 and has since become a multimillion dollar producing agency even after her first year on her own. Shayla... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Versailles

Educational Session

9:45am PDT

Building a Strong Brand: Consistency and the Consequences of Breaking It!

Tuesday April 1, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT

Concorde A

In today’s competitive market, brand consistency is key to establishing trust and recognition among your clients. We will explore what it truly means to create a cohesive brand identity, from your messaging and visual elements to customer interactions and service delivery. Additionally, we’ll discuss the potential pitfalls of “breaking the brand” – the missteps that can erode trust and loyalty among your clients. Advisors will walk away with five actionable items that can be implemented immediately!

Speakers

Jenn Lee

President & Chief Marketing Officer, Travel Planners International & Vacation Planners

Tuesday April 1, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Concorde A

Educational Session

9:45am PDT

Partnering for Success: How to Create a Win Win Seller Supplier Partnership

Tuesday April 1, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT

Concorde B

Do you want your business to reach its full potential? This must-attend session will explore the power of a strong relationship plays with your preferred partners Business Development Manager (BDM). Uncover the critical aspects this important relationship lays in your success, including collaborative initiatives; opportunities and assets that will maximize your profitability; exclusive experiences that will give you a competitive edge; and best of all, success stories that have resulted from strong BDM partnerships.

Moderators

Keli Washburn

Business Development Manager, the Globus family of brands & Avalon Waterways

Introducing Keli Washburn, our dynamic Business Development Manager at the Globus family of brands. Keli has built a distinguished career in supporting and empowering professional travel advisors. She is the driving force behind our presence in the South West, focusing on nurturing... Read More →

Speakers

Deborah Tortoriello

National Sales Manager, Vacation Express

Deborah Tortoriello is the Director of Sales with Vacation Express. Debi has spent 14 years as a member of the Vacation Express team and working in Sales for 30 years. A true industry veteran for over 35 years, she began her career in travel as a flight attendant with Eastern Airlines... Read More →

Stacey Cabell, CTIE

Owner, Starstuff Travel, LLC

Lindsey Wagner

Sales Manager, West, Virgin Voyages

Lindsey Wagner, based in Southern California, is the Director of Field Sales – West at Virgin Voyages, leading a high-performing remote team of four Rockstar Sales Managers across the Western U.S. Since joining Virgin Voyages in 2018, Lindsey has been instrumental in helping to... Read More →

Brad Lennox

Owner & CEO, Dekel Travel

Tuesday April 1, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session

11:00am PDT

Qualifying Your Client for the Right All-Inclusive Experience

Tuesday April 1, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Versailles

The All-Inclusive Experience is continuously evolving, allowing you to sell this incredible vacation experience to a wide range of clientele. From couples, to families, to groups with special interests, there's never been a better time to tap into the all-inclusive rewards that await you. Hear from top all-inclusive experts as they discuss why the all-inclusive vacation rivals any vacation experience you're currently selling; new and exciting profit channels for the all-inclusive seller; what you need to know about your client to book the perfect all-inclusive vacation; and how working with your supplier representatives can positively impact your client's stay (and your next clients, too).

Moderators

Mandee Migliaccio

CEO, Stepping Out Travel Services

Mandee Migliaccio has been an avid traveler since she was a child. In 2005, she turned her passion into a career and started working for Stepping Out Travel Services. After learning the business and growing the team, Mandee was offered the opportunity to take on the role as CEO in... Read More →

Speakers

Carlos Martinez

Regional Sales Manager, Grupo Xcaret

Carlos Martinez, known to his peers and friends as Charlie, is a dedicated professional in travel, tourism, and MICE. With over 20 years in the industry—10 of them at Xcaret—his career has been shaped by passion, continuous growth, and a drive for new challenges.He began at Xcaret... Read More →

Garfield Collins

Director Strategic Accounts North America, Couples Resorts Jamaica

Mr. personality as he is called, Garfield Collins, a native of Jamaica is no stranger to the world of Travel and Entertainment. He is currently the Regional Sales Manager for the dynamic Couples Resorts Jamaica Brand and is a master public relations, sales and marketing guru with... Read More →

Amanda Morris

Director of Sales USA & Canada, Playa Hotels & Resorts

As Director of Sales for the USA & Canada at Playa Hotels & Resorts, Amanda Morris is a key leader in driving strategic growth, expanding brand presence, and strengthening industry partnerships. With close to 25 years of experience in the travel industry, she brings a deep understanding... Read More →

Lucien Llado

Director of Sales and Strategic Partnership, USA & Canada, Majestic Resorts

With over 20 years’ experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, Lucien Echavarria is the Director of Sales and Strategic Partnership, USA & Canada for Majestic Resorts, stablishing the position of the brand in both destinations,- Mexico and Dominican Republic-, through strategic... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Versailles

Educational Session

11:00am PDT

Supplier Partners Share! Using Social Media and Digital Tools to Achieve Your Goals

Tuesday April 1, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Concorde B

Maximize your social media and online strategies with tips from top industry partners – business development manager! From social media insights to partner platforms and tools, this session will cover actionable ways to innovate your offerings while increasing your earnings with proven tips! You won’t want to miss this session!

Moderators

Mary Charleson, MBA, CSP

Marketing Educator, Speaker & Strategist, fiveminutemarketing.com

Speakers

Joe Vanderhoff

Manager of Training and Development, Sandals & Beaches Resorts

Joe is currently the Manager of Training & Development and was formerly the Central Texas BDM for Sandals since 2019. Joe is responsible for creating programs that work with travel advisors to help grow their Sandals & Beaches business through strategic social media marketing tactics... Read More →

Luke Majewski

Regional Director Of Business Development - TX, OK, AR, LA, AIC Hotel Group

Ten year veteran of the travel industry specializing in all inclusive luxury hotels and weddings. Working with AIC for over 10 years now helping travel advisors navigate the luxury all inclusive resort marketplace with unique and creative sales and marketing techniques. A huge focus... Read More →

Drew Santiago

Director of Business Development & CIAT Mayor of Funville, Carnival Cruise Line

Drew M. Santiago is an esteemed figure in the cruise industry, boasting an impressive 26-year career that spans from shoreside and shipboard positions. His journey commenced at Princess, where he started as an entry-level Reservations Agent. Through unwavering dedication and passion... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session

11:00am PDT

The Future of Travel Agencies: What’s Changing & How to Stay Ahead

Tuesday April 1, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Concorde A

The travel industry is evolving fast, and advisors who adapt will thrive. From shifting client expectations to emerging technology and new business models, staying ahead requires the right mix of innovation and human touch. This session breaks down key trends shaping the future of travel agencies and provides practical strategies to integrate tech, streamline workflows, and future-proof your business. Walk away with actionable insights to stay competitive, drive more bookings, and position yourself for long-term success.

Speakers

Grace Van Hollebeke

Founder & CEO, Lucia

Grace Van Hollebeke is the Founder & CEO of Lucia, a platform that connects travel advisors with assistants, marketers, trip planners, and more. She was formerly a luxury travel advisor at Valerie Wilson Travel and now focuses on helping travel businesses streamline their workflows... Read More →

Tuesday April 1, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Concorde A

Educational Session

8:30am PDT

It’s All About the Base, Database, No Trouble!

Wednesday April 2, 2025 8:30am - 9:45am PDT

Concorde B

Success as a Travel Advisor starts with marketing, progresses through sales and culminates with exceptional service. The common element through every step in the journey is the care, feeding and love of your database! Join Scott with his 40 years of retail expertise and learn how to build, cultivate and coddle your database to maximize results. You will not only be singing the title of the workshop along with him but will walk away with specific steps on how to take your business to the next level.

Speakers

Scott Koepf CTC, MCC

Chief Strategy Officer, Cruise Planners

With more than 30 years in retail travel Scott Koepf is Chief Strategic Officer of Cruise Planners, one of the largest and most awarded travel companies in North America and beyond. He previously served as President of the National Association of Career Travel Agents. Prior to his... Read More →

Wednesday April 2, 2025 8:30am - 9:45am PDT
Concorde B

Educational Session