Join us as we explore Travefy’s tools that are changing the game for travel advisors. We’ll share Travefy’s visual trip builder, easy to implement CRM, customizable forms, website builder, and more! You’ll learn how Travefy started, where we are now, and what’s the roadmap for 2025. Whether you’re a current Travefy user or an advisor looking for simple solutions to grow your business, this session is for you!

Register now!

Welcome to Host Week! Steph and Shayna will talk you through what to expect for the event! You'll be an old pro in no time!

1:15 PM PTN Travel

1:25 PM 1000 Mile Travel Group

1:35 PM Montecito Village Travel

1:50 PM Fora

2:05 PM Uniglobe Travel Center

2:20 PM Brownell Travel

2:35 PM The Travel Society

Session:

Fear not! This is NOT another monotone conversation about technology blah blah blah. This is NOT a jargon-filled, pretentious panel. And, rest assured, this is NOT a pushy, slimy, timeshare presentation.

So now that we’ve explained what this presentation is NOT, let’s explain what it IS.

Host Week’s audience sure is in luck, as the WeTravel team will be presenting takeaways from our Annual Travel Trends Report, which is released every year in January. Yes, that means the Host Week audience will be some of the very first folks to see what’s in store for 2025.

Every year, our report helps travel businesses understand how to capitalize on consumers’ behavior, preferences and expectations surrounding bookings and payments processes.

Our research dives into travelers’ attitudes – do they prefer paying for trips entirely upfront, or paying in 4+ installments? What kind of add-on’s are travelers increasingly demanding, segmented by age group?

Our report takes this data and curates bite-size, actionable recommendations that travel businesses can implement right away, so that their booking and payment processes, as well as marketing and communications strategies, mirror consumers’ needs.

Let it be known – at WeTravel, many of us worked in other branches of the travel industry – tour operators, agencies, tourism board representation, etc. – before coming to the tech side of things. This is why we LOVE chatting with our peers about travel technology – it’s because we get it! We’ve been there!

You don’t want to miss this fun-ducational presentation!

Key Takeaways:

1. How do travelers want to pay for trips, and how can you as a business address these expectations of theirs so that their payment journey is as smooth as possible?

2. What do travelers in different regions and countries expect from businesses, as far as payment methods go? And how can you offer these regionally appropriate payment methods?

3. How far in advance do travelers want to book their trips (and how can we segment this by age group, other demographics?) And how can you as a business plan out flash sales, marketing campaigns, etc. to capitalize on travelers’ booking lead time?

4. How is society’s increasingly mobile landscape impacting the way travelers click through and book trips, and how can you optimize your website to address this?

Session:

In today's competitive travel industry, efficiency and personalization are essential for success. This presentation is designed for travel advisors who want to harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in creating tailored itineraries that enhance the client experience while streamlining workflows. Attendees will discover how AI can assist in crafting detailed, customized journeys—such as an art-focused itinerary from Madrid to Portugal—tailored to their clients' specific preferences and interests. By exploring practical tools and real-world examples, this presentation will provide actionable insights on integrating AI into daily operations, enabling advisors to deliver faster, more personalized service without sacrificing quality. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how to leverage AI to boost creativity, improve client satisfaction, and ultimately grow their businesses. Join us for this engaging session and learn how AI can elevate your travel advisory services and create unforgettable experiences for your clients.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding AI Fundamentals: Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how artificial intelligence works in the context of travel planning and the potential benefits it offers to travel advisors.

2. Practical Tools for Itinerary Creation: Participants will learn about specific AI tools and software that can streamline the itinerary creation process, making it easier to customize travel plans for clients.

3. Personalization Techniques: The session will provide insights into how AI can analyze client preferences and data to create personalized travel experiences, enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty.

4. Real-World Application: Through a real-world example of crafting an art-focused itinerary from Madrid to Portugal, attendees will see firsthand how to apply AI in creating compelling, multi-destination trips.

5. Actionable Integration Strategies: Participants will leave with practical strategies for integrating AI into their daily operations, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively while providing exceptional service to their clients.

Session:

Join Ajanaclair Wise as she dives deep into the evolving landscape of travel planning with her session, "Redefining Value Beyond Commissions: The Case for Planning Fees in Travel." Historically, travel advisors relied solely on commissions from suppliers, but today's travel market demands a more balanced approach to compensation. With nearly two decades of experience as an attorney, Ajanaclair brings a fresh and compelling perspective on why planning fees are not just justified, but essential for delivering unparalleled travel experiences. In this session, we'll explore the extensive work and intricate details that go into crafting bespoke travel itineraries and demonstrate how planning fees ensure clients receive the high-touch service they deserve. By redefining value beyond mere commissions, you'll discover how embracing planning fees can elevate your service offerings, enhance client satisfaction, and affirm the true worth of your time and expertise. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach to travel planning and gain valuable insights into the benefits of implementing planning fees.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding the True Value of Planning Fees - Attendees will learn why planning fees are instrumental in delivering superior, personalized travel experiences and how they go beyond the limitations of supplier commissions.

2. Balancing Client Expectations with Fair Compensation - Explore strategies for educating clients on the importance of planning fees, ensuring that both their expectations and the comprehensive nature of the services provided are met.

3. Leveraging Legal Expertise in Travel Planning - Gain insights into how Ajanaclair’s extensive legal background informs her approach to travel consulting, highlighting the parallels between billable hours in law and travel planning fees.

4. Enhancing Client Satisfaction Through Transparent Practices - Discover how transparency in fee structures can foster trust and improve client satisfaction, leading to stronger client relationships and better travel experiences.

5. Practical Steps for Implementing Planning Fees - Receive actionable advice on how to introduce and structure planning fees in your travel business, ensuring a smooth transition for both existing and new clients.

Join Steph and Mary as they break down HAR's agency startup course and how it supports advisors at every stage - whether you're exploring the idea of travel or ready to start booking yesterday.

We'll cover:

1. How the course guides you through each step of building your agency

2. Real examples of advisors who found success using these strategies

3. Special access to course savings for attendees

This session helps you decide if our step-by-step approach matches your agency goals and vision!

Are you ready to streamline your business and "tech" it to the next level? This interactive CoffeeSpot with WeTravel will demystify tech-stacking and provide bite-sized steps for leveraging the right tools. Whether you're a tech newbie or looking to refine your systems, learning how to stack smarter will lead to simplified operations, an enhanced customer experience, and your bottom line ultimately being met more easily.

Register now!

Welcome to Host Week! Steph and Shayna will talk you through what to expect for the event! You'll be an old pro in no time!

In 2025, the travel industry is set to experience dynamic shifts driven by evolving consumer preferences. Here’s an overview of the key trends that travel advisors and host agencies should anticipate:

1. New Destinations

Colocations will be the hot trend (pun intended) of 2025. With global warming becoming a pressing concern, travelers are seeking cooler climates to escape the heat. Destinations like Iceland, Canada, and Scandinavia are poised to see a surge in visitors who are looking for breathtaking landscapes and milder temperatures.

2. Emerging Interests

Wellness Travel is more than a trend—it's becoming a lifestyle. Travelers are prioritizing their mental and physical health, seeking destinations that offer holistic wellness experiences. Think yoga retreats in Bali, spa escapes in the Swiss Alps, and digital detox camps in remote locations.

Technology Integration will transform how consumers plan and enjoy their trips. AI-powered travel planners, virtual reality destination previews, and seamless mobile experiences will make travel more accessible and personalized.

3. Travel Styles

Luxury Travel is evolving. It's no longer just about opulence but also about unique and meaningful experiences. Travelers want exclusivity and personalization, from staying in boutique eco-lodges to dining in Michelin-starred restaurants that source local, sustainable ingredients.

4. Adventure Travel continues to gain traction.

Understanding these trends is crucial for staying ahead in the competitive travel industry. By aligning services with these emerging preferences, travel advisors and host agencies can better meet the needs of the modern traveler and enhance their overall travel experience.

1:00 PM Levarté Travel

1:20 PM Nexion Travel Group

1:35 PM Dugan's Travel

1:45 PM Dream Vacations Franchise

2:05 PM Jus Adventures

2:20 PM Incentive Connection Travel

2:40 PM WorldVia

Session:

Ensuring business continuity during out-of-office periods is crucial for travel agencies to protect bookings and maintain client satisfaction. In this session, Grace Van Hollebeke, CEO and Founder of Lucia, will share how agencies can create an effective out-of-office coverage plan that includes clear delegation of responsibilities, thorough training for backup staff, and seamless access to client information. Grace will guide attendees on selecting the right freelance talent to handle urgent inquiries, manage social media presence, and process bookings in the advisor’s absence. The presentation will emphasize the importance of having a well-structured backup plan, defined roles, and accessible resources to ensure client needs are met without disruption. By the end of the session, attendees will have actionable strategies to ensure smooth transitions during out-of-office periods and protect both revenue and client trust.

Key Takeaways:

1. How to create a detailed out-of-office coverage plan that ensures business continuity.

2. The importance of clearly defining roles and responsibilities for team members and freelancers.

3. Techniques for training backup staff and ensuring seamless access to client information.

4. Strategies for maintaining client communication and protecting bookings during advisor absences.

5. How to identify and leverage freelancers to cover critical tasks, ensuring business productivity.

Session

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.

Key Takeaways

1. Learn what BRANDING really is. (more than a logo)

2. Learn the importance of its role in customer loyalty.

3. Learn how to maintain brand integrity throughout your clients entire journey.

4. Learn the five areas that advisors forget are part of their brand

5. Actionable steps to ensure you are "in brand" at all times.

This engaging webinar will guide aspiring travel advisors through the foundational steps of building their own travel business from home. Learn how to navigate the evolving travel industry, build lasting client relationships, and leverage tools and resources to drive success. Featuring insights from seasoned professionals and real success stories, this session is perfect for anyone ready to take the first step toward their dream business.

Register now!

Welcome to Host Week! Steph and Shayna will talk you through what to expect for the event! You'll be an old pro in no time!

In 2025, the travel industry is set to experience dynamic shifts driven by evolving consumer preferences. Here’s an overview of the key trends that travel advisors and host agencies should anticipate:

1. New Destinations

Colocations will be the hot trend (pun intended) of 2025. With global warming becoming a pressing concern, travelers are seeking cooler climates to escape the heat. Destinations like Iceland, Canada, and Scandinavia are poised to see a surge in visitors who are looking for breathtaking landscapes and milder temperatures.

2. Emerging Interests

Wellness Travel is more than a trend—it's becoming a lifestyle. Travelers are prioritizing their mental and physical health, seeking destinations that offer holistic wellness experiences. Think yoga retreats in Bali, spa escapes in the Swiss Alps, and digital detox camps in remote locations.

Technology Integration will transform how consumers plan and enjoy their trips. AI-powered travel planners, virtual reality destination previews, and seamless mobile experiences will make travel more accessible and personalized.

3. Travel Styles

Luxury Travel is evolving. It's no longer just about opulence but also about unique and meaningful experiences. Travelers want exclusivity and personalization, from staying in boutique eco-lodges to dining in Michelin-starred restaurants that source local, sustainable ingredients.

4. Adventure Travel continues to gain traction.

Understanding these trends is crucial for staying ahead in the competitive travel industry. By aligning services with these emerging preferences, travel advisors and host agencies can better meet the needs of the modern traveler and enhance their overall travel experience.

12:50 PM Travel Leaders Market Square

1:00 PM KHM Travel Group

1:15 PM Modern Travel Professionals

1:25 PM NEST Plus

1:40 PM Dream Vacations-Advisor

2:00 PM OAL Travel Network

2:15 PM Gifted Travel Network

2:35 PM Outside Agents

Session:

Are you constantly reacting to your clients’ air travel challenges instead of anticipating them? In this fast-paced session, you’ll discover how to confidently support clients in real-time, no matter how complex their travel needs may seem. With our business built 100% on air travel, we’ve mastered a proactive approach that keeps clients on schedule and stress-free. Whether your clients are leisure, corporate or anyone with tight timelines, we’ll share four simple principles that allow you to help your clients in real-time, predicting and solving problems before they arise.

In just 15 minutes, we’ll walk you through live demonstrations using free tools that you can start leveraging immediately to streamline your client support. You don’t need to be an expert in air travel—you just need to learn where to look and how to respond. By the end of this session, you’ll leave with the confidence to provide real-time solutions, turning air travel from a source of frustration into a seamless, remarkable experience for both you and your clients.

Key Takeaways:

1) Real-Time Air Travel Solutions: respond to client air travel needs in real time, turning potential disruptions into seamless experiences.

2) Proactive Client Support Principles: From reacting to anticipating stay ahead of client concerns on your own time.

3) Tools for Efficient Support: easy-to-use free tools that help you interpret data and make informed decisions quickly

4) Transform Air Travel into a Strategic Advantage: Embrace the mindset shift from seeing air travel as a hassle to viewing it as Air-as-an-Experience (AaaE), turning it into a valuable opportunity

Session:

Tired of spending hours rebuilding ugly supplier proposals in your itinerary builder? In this session, I’ll show you how to give those blah proposals an update in minutes using Canva—no graphic design skills needed. The time between when a lead first reaches out and when they receive that first proposal is crucial, and you don’t need to waste any of it inputting everything into your builder just yet. Plus, why create opportunities for errors with constant updates during revisions? Instead, take that supplier proposal, drop it into Canva, make a few tweaks, and send it off in minutes. Once the trip is sold, you can move everything to your builder at a more leisurely pace—without the back-and-forth edits that happen during the proposal stage. If you are ready to take your time back, I’ll show you exactly how to do this, and I’ll even give you templates to make the process even faster.

Key Takeaways:

1. Why re-building every supplier proposal (even the ugly ones) is costing you hours and adding unnecessary days to your sales cycle.

2. You can quickly make a supplier proposal look professional in minutes using Canva.

3. Learn how to manipulate multiple formats including pdfs, screenshots, and good ole copy/paste.

4. Take a few minutes to update templates to your brand one time, and use them again and again to make this process fast and easy.

Session

Get inspired with creative ideas and ways to surprise and delight your clients! In this session, we'll share real-life examples on how you can add simple gestures and gifts before, during, and after your client's trips to create lasting memories and keep them coming back for more.

Key Takeaways

- Discover simple, low-cost ways to surprise clients before, during, and after trips.

- Learn how small gestures and gifts build client loyalty.

- Explore real examples of successful surprise and delight tactics.

- Gain strategies to strengthen relationships beyond bookings.

Join us for a CoffeeSpot with Cruisen and discover how collaborative cruise planning is transforming the future of travel advising. Our innovative platform streamlines the sales process, saving you time on every cruise booking while delivering a best-in-class experience for you and your clients. Join this session to learn how to leave the paperwork behind and focus on creating great relationships that lead to unforgettable journeys!

Register now!

Welcome to Host Week! Steph and Shayna will talk you through what to expect for the event! You'll be an old pro in no time!

Session:

In today's digital age, safeguarding your social media accounts and personal branding from hacking is more crucial than ever. This talk will provide you with the knowledge and tools to protect yourself and your brand from cyber threats. You'll learn about common hacking techniques, prevention strategies, and how to respond effectively if your accounts are compromised. Stay ahead of cybercriminals and ensure that your online presence remains secure and trustworthy.

Key Takeaways

1. Understanding Common Hacking Techniques

2. Implementing Strong Security Practices

3. Recognizing and Avoiding Phishing Scams

4. Protecting Your Brand's Online Identity:

5. Responding to and Recovering from Account Compromise

12:50 PM Nexion Canada

1:05 PM Departure Lounge

1:15 PM Direct Travel

1:30 PM Travel Edge

1:50 PM Global Travel Collection

2:05 PM Largay Travel

2:25 PM Expedia of OVC

2:40 PM Alternative Travel Services

Session:

Do you know where your profit is slipping away to?

In this session, we’ll uncover the hidden cost of not knowing and how it’s quietly draining your profit and lowering the money available to pay yourself.

I’ll show you how making small, consistent changes can have a positive impact on your bottom line over time. You’ll also gain insight into what “consistency in action” looks like and how it can unlock compounded profit growth for your business.

Key Takeaways:

- Why ignoring your numbers is lowering your profit, and pay

- The advantages of setting up simple systems to take control and streamline

your finances

- How making small, consistent changes can increase your profit over time

- What consistency in action looks like and the compounded potential

Session

In the fast-paced world of travel, your Business Development Managers (BDMs) can be one of your most valuable assets. But how do you build and nurture these relationships to benefit your business and, ultimately, your clients? This session will dive into the art of fostering a strong BDM network, offering practical tips on developing meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships. You’ll learn how leveraging your BDMs' expertise not only enhances your own knowledge but also leads to improved client experiences. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to strengthen existing connections, this session will give you the tools and strategies to build long-lasting partnerships that contribute to your success. Walk away with actionable insights on how to collaborate effectively, tap into exclusive resources, and position yourself as a top-tier travel professional.

Key Takeaway

1. Relationship Building: Learn strategies to develop and maintain a strong network of BDMs.

2. Effective Communication: Discover communication techniques that foster trust and mutual benefits with your BDMs.

3. Exclusive Resources: Understand how to leverage BDM connections for access to insider knowledge, deals, and promotions.

4. Client Impact: Explore how a well-cultivated BDM network translates into enhanced client experiences and satisfaction.

5. Ongoing Collaboration: Gain tips for continuous engagement with your BDMs to stay on top of trends and opportunities in the travel industry.

Session

In today's rapidly evolving travel industry, staying within your comfort zone can limit growth, innovation, and opportunity. My session, Breaking Boundaries: How Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone Can Transform Your Travel Business, will explore how embracing discomfort can lead to extraordinary success. Attendees will learn actionable strategies to overcome fear and self-doubt, network effectively, and seize opportunities that may initially feel intimidating. Drawing from my personal journey and 13 years of industry experience, I’ll share how taking bold steps, such as attending unfamiliar events or exploring new partnerships, can lead to profound personal and professional growth. Whether you're a seasoned travel professional or just starting your business, this session will provide the mindset shift and tools needed to break through barriers, enhance your career, and take your travel business to new heights. Don't miss this opportunity to discover how pushing past limits is key to thriving in an ever-changing marketplace!

Key Takeaways

1. Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt: Attendees will learn practical techniques for recognizing and managing the fear of stepping out of their comfort zones, empowering them to take bold actions in their business.

2. Building Confidence in New Situations: Gain insights on how to build confidence in unfamiliar environments, such as networking events, conferences, or forming new partnerships, and how this can significantly impact business growth.

3. Leveraging Discomfort for Success: Understand how embracing discomfort can lead to innovation, new opportunities, and greater personal fulfillment in the travel industry.

4. Actionable Steps for Immediate Implementation: Participants will leave with clear, actionable steps to apply immediately in their business, from attending new events to seeking new collaborations or expanding their offerings.

5. Mindset Shifts for Long-Term Growth: Discover how shifting your mindset from staying safe to seeking growth can lead to long-term success and sustainability in an evolving travel marketplace.

Welcome to Incentive Connection Travel, where you're not just an agent you’re part of our family! We pride ourselves on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere as we connect with our agents and help them build strong networks with fellow ICT agents. As a a member of the Presidents Circle for Travel Leaders and a top producer for our major suppliers, we secure top-tier commissions for our team. In this engaging session, you'll have a chance to get to know me, Robert Siamon, and discover the exciting opportunities that await you as an ICT Agent.

Register now!

Welcome to Host Week! Steph and Shayna will talk you through what to expect for the event! You'll be an old pro in no time!

Description: Overwhelmed by all the AI buzz in travel? Let's cut through the noise and dive into why we're only at 10% of its potential. Join us for an eye-opening conversation with TravelWits CEO Arman Bimatov to demystify how AI actually approaches travel planning (it's probably not what you think) and explore what a future with AI "team members" might look like. If you're tired of surface-level AI talks and want practical insights about where this technology is really headed, come join the fun!

Takeaways

1. Get a big picture view of the different types of AI and which are most applicable to travel agencies

2. Understand how AI thinks differently: It's not just about automating what humans do, but discovering opportunities we might miss

3. Preview the future of 'hybrid teams' where AI complements (not replaces) travel advisors

4. Learn where travel AI really stands today and what might be coming down the pipeline

1:10 PM Vacation Planners

1:20 PM Travel Planners International

1:40 PM Cruise Planners

Session:

Accessible Travel is a $58B market. And even with that staggering number, it's growing: boomers will all be 65 plus by 2030.

Planning travel for groups that haven't always identified as having special needs is an art. And going beyond traditionally safe experiences such as cruises, theme parks and mega resorts is the way to continue to meet the needs of this growing audience. It's no longer just about what we have done in the past, but a new model of creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences that enable all generations of the family to have new experiences together. And with the discretionary income of many boomers, that means looking at accessible luxury in new ways.

Key Takeaways:

What you will learn:

1. The Growth Market for Luxury Accessible Multigen Travel: who needs it, where are they going and what do they want to do

2. Customer Outreach: The Five Questions to Ask to Ensure a Premium Experience

3. Talking to Suppliers: The Secret Ingredient for Beneficial Partnerships

4. The Go-To-Market Marketing Playbook: How to Reach this Expanding Audience

Session:

Are you ready to elevate your sales process and close more deals? In this session, Courtnie Nichols, a highly accomplished entrepreneur and expert in the travel industry, will share her unique fundraising framework adapted specifically for selling travel. Drawing on years of experience as a successful fundraiser and luxury travel advisor, Courtnie will guide you through the essential steps to building a robust sales process that resonates with today’s discerning clients. Whether you're a seasoned travel advisor or new to the industry, this session will provide you with actionable strategies to identify your ideal clients, communicate your value effectively, and close sales with confidence. You’ll learn how to apply proven techniques from the nonprofit sector to create a personalized, relationship-driven approach to selling travel. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insider knowledge from one of the industry's top professionals and transform your sales process into a powerful tool for business growth.

Key Takeaways:

1. Customized Sales Framework: Attendees will learn how to apply a fundraising-based framework to their travel sales process, enabling them to create a personalized, relationship-driven approach that resonates with clients.

2. Client Identification and Segmentation: Participants will gain insights into how to identify and segment their ideal clients, allowing them to focus their efforts on the most promising prospects.

3. Closing Techniques for High-Value Clients: Attendees will walk away with proven techniques for confidently closing sales, particularly with high-value clients, leading to increased revenue and client satisfaction.

4. Actionable Strategies for Business Growth: Participants will leave with a set of actionable strategies they can immediately implement to refine their sales process, resulting in sustainable business growth and success

Session:

In this session we will share our personal journey of starting CruiseWestCoast.com as well as Flow Voyages at the beginning of the pandemic and how it is now serving to grow Heather's business but also keep existing clients engaged. James and Heather will share practical tips that anyone with passion and knowledge can do so that they can replicate elements of their success.

Key Takeaways:

Audience members will take away the following knowledge nuggets from this session:

1) How To Build A Content Marketing Lead Funnel

2) How Use Different Social and Content Tools With Purpose

3) Differences Between Content Marketing and Social Media

4) How Influencers Can Help Grow Your Base

Join us for HAR's Luminary Awards & 3 amazing and generous giveaways from Celebrity, Hilton, and Travel Republic, Africa!