2024 Day 3

Friday, November 8

All times are listed in Eastern Standard Time. Program is tentative and subject to change.

8:15am – 10:15am General Session and Breakfast 

Coffee Chat with Mary Pat  

Presented by Carnival Cruise Line 

Pitch Perfect: Luxury

Companies include: Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Scenic Luxury Cruises, Windstar Cruises 

A Spotlight on Windstar Cruises  

A Conversation with Cruise Leadership 

Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO, Azamara Cruises 
Ken Muskat, Managing Director, Scenic Group USA 

TW Talk  

Presented by Jenn Lee, President, Vacation Planners Dave Meihoefer, VP Sales and Engagement, TPI

A Moment with Allianz 

A Spotlight on Cunard   

10:30am – 11:00am Peer-to-Peer Sessions, sponsored by Holland America Line 

Unlocking Success in Cruise Group & MICE Travel: Strategies for Growth and Profitability

Dive into the dynamic world of Group and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel in this comprehensive session. Learn how to capitalize on the lucrative opportunities within this space by understanding client needs, creating compelling group travel packages, and managing complex logistics with precision. Explore strategies for marketing and selling to corporate clients, organizing large-scale events, and developing strong relationships with suppliers. Whether you're expanding into this sector or looking to enhance your existing offerings, this session will provide actionable insights and proven tactics to boost your success in the Group and MICE travel market.

Presented by Angela Hughes, CEO, Trips and Ships Luxury Travel

Five Keys to Growing Your Travel Business

In this session, we will focus on the five keys that advisors should consider when shifting from working IN their travel business to working ON their travel business. These insights will help you to craft a clear and actionable plan to attract more clients and enhance your brand. Topics will include:

• Digital Marketing

• Website Optimization

• Building Partnerships

• Providing Exceptional Customer Service

• Being Informed and Adaptation 

Presented by Jesse Morris, Brand Ambassador, Travel Professional NEWS, FindaHostTravelAgency.com and HomeBasedTravelAgent.com

The Important Role Travel Advisors Play in Society

This session will dive into the many reasons us advisors play a significant role in society and cover a few key areas where travel advisors impact the world. We are not just order takers, but have a long-term impact on our clients, fellow advisors, tour operators and economies of all sizes across the globe. We will celebrate the work being done by travel professionals through sharing success stories and feedback from clients and tour operators. This will better equip you with the ability to portray your value to your clients. We will also discuss ideas for moving forward with your career and making an even more significant impact. 

Presented by Kristi Peek, President, Embrace the Journey Travel

Travel Advisors: How and Why the Law Matters to You! 

Join industry attorney, Jeffrey Ment, and a panel of your peers for an informative and engaging conversation on legal issues that impact travel advisors and agencies.  He will discuss timely topics such as DOT refund rules taking effect in 2024, the legal landscape (ever shifting) on IC’s and employees, and the very best practices for your Terms and Conditions.  Jeff’s 30+ year career as a travel law attorney, combined with his experience working as a travel advisor, allows him to provide great peer-to-peer advice!

Presented by Jeffery Ment, Managing Partner, The Ment Law Group, PC 

11:15am – 11:45am Peer-to-Peer Sessions, sponsored by Holland America Line 

Email and Social Media Marketing: Essential Tools for Travel Advisors

Join Jamie Rumph, the marketing expert from Love of the Magic Vacations, for an informative session on maximizing your marketing efforts through email and social media. This session will provide travel advisors, both new and experienced, with practical insights and strategies to grow their business. Learn how to create effective email campaigns, engage your audience on social media platforms, and implement best practices for sustained marketing success. Gain the knowledge you need to leverage these powerful tools to connect with clients, increase your visibility, and enhance your brand presence in the competitive travel industry.

Presented by Jamie Rumph, CEO/Travel Advisor, Love of the Magic Vacations

Empowering Leadership and Core Values: Building a Culture for Growth, Success and Unleashing Your Potential in Business and Life

Join us for an inspirational session where we challenge the notion that leadership is reserved for a select few. Whether you're in an entry-level travel position or a seasoned business owner, this talk is for you. Explore the transformative power of leading from within, embracing your unique strengths, and creating a culture of success in any role. Discover how aligning your values with your actions can drive personal and professional growth. Empower yourself to take control of your journey, inspire those around you, and make a positive impact, regardless of your title or position in the company. Dare to lead and unlock your full potential.

Presented by Tim Sawhook, Owner, Exclusive Travel Partners

YouTube and Your Business

Hear from successful travel agency owner, Danny Genung, about how he built his business to over $60M in sales essentially through his YouTube channel.

Presented by Danny Genung, Owner, Harr Travel

Growth Mindset: Repeat and Referral Bookings

Finding brand new customers every single day is a costly way to grow your business. In this session, we’ll discuss how to create an action plan that has your current customers excited to introduce you to their contacts. 

Presented by Stephen Scott, Travel Advisor, Travel Hub 365

12:00pm – 12:30pm Peer-to-Peer Sessions, sponsored by Holland America Line

Mastering the Art of Selling Luxury Travel: Strategies for Success

In this immersive session, learn the key strategies and techniques to excel in the luxury travel market. Discover how to effectively connect with affluent clients, curate bespoke experiences, and position your brand as a leader in the luxury travel industry. Gain insights into the latest trends, client expectations, and how to leverage exclusive partnerships to drive sales and ensure client satisfaction. Whether you're new to the luxury sector or looking to refine your approach, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the world of luxury travel.

Presented by Angela Hughes, CEO, Trips and Ships Luxury Travel

The Importance of Being Relational Over Transactional 

In sales, prioritizing relational over transactional interactions is vital for long-term success. By truly understanding your clients—their needs, preferences, and goals—you build trust and foster deeper connections. This relational approach transforms clients from one-time buyers into loyal, repeat customers. When clients feel valued beyond just a transaction, they’re more likely to engage, refer others, and maintain lasting partnerships. Focusing on relationships allows you to anticipate their evolving needs, offering tailored solutions that go beyond quick sales, ultimately driving sustainable growth and mutual benefit over time.

Presented by Jennifer Kellum, Owner/Agent, Neverland Main & Travel

Million-Dollar Mindset

Hear from a panel of your peers as they share how they took their business across the million-dollar threshold and how they continue to grow, expand and succeed.

Presented by Jill LaBarre, President, Jill's Great Escapes

Cross Selling & Upselling - Tools to Grow Your Travel Business

Learn how to grow your travel business with proven strategies on cross-selling and upselling! Master how and when to use these valuable tools to increase revenue and enhance customer satisfaction.  

Presented by Shawnta Harrison, Owner Harrison's Travel; CEO, Association of Black Travel Professionals and
Veranda Adkins, Owner, Travel Legacy, Inc.; President, Association of Black Travel Professionals

12:45pm – 3:15pm General Session and Lunch, sponsored by Norwegian Cruise Line  

A moment with Vacation Planners

Presented by Jenn Lee, President, Vacation Planners 

Lunch, sponsored by Norwegian Cruise Line  

CEO Conversation 

Harry J. Sommer, President and CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. and Arnie Weissmann, Editor-in-Chief, Travel Weekly 

Presidents Panel 

Pitch Perfect: Adventure/Expedition 

3:15pm – 4:45pm Princess Workshop