Agenda - The ASTA Travel Advisor Conference

VTA Fast Track Option: ASTA is providing two preparatory courses for advisors aiming to obtain their VTA accreditation during the conference. Attendees are required to participate in both preparatory sessions and the VTA Testing on Friday, May 31st.

Prepare for the VTA test with a comprehensive legal exploration of agency relationships and the role of travel advisors. Gain insights into legal rights, compliance obligations, and navigate industry regulations confidently, ensuring ethical conduct and professional success. This preparatory course will highlight the knowledge and tools to navigate legal complexities that an advisor may face.

Location: Cortez CD

My life is travel and building a brand that creates magical memories for people around the world. In just the past few years my company, Travelmation, has more than doubled the number of agents and we are seeing significant growth unlike any other.  We’ve done that by building a company that is gaining recognition with agents, vendors and clients.

My session will reveal:

• How to create a recognizable brand in all the noise
• Marketing in new & innovative ways
• Giving your agents independence while still representing your brand
• What former methods to lose to thrive in 2023 and beyond

Location: Coronado A

Business plans are like road maps: it’s possible to travel without one, but that will only increase the odds of getting lost along the way. Owners with a business plan see growth 30% faster than those without one. A good business plan is not a novel that gets written and put on a shelf. In this session you will learn simple and efficient steps to set a vision that your entire office contributes to. Also how to create accountability with defined strategies and actions. Key elements we will cover:

 

• Understanding what’s working and not working in your business has been a guiding process/tool ALGV uses in all plans and strategies.

• How to define goals, outcomes and ownership.

• Tracking updates and results.

Location: Coronado A

Trade Show refreshments sponsored by



Location: Trinity Exhibit Hall

We'll kick start the conference with a welcome from ASTA’s President & CEO, Zane Kerby, and ASTA’s Board Chair, Jackie Friedman, before an inspiring presentation from our keynote speaker, tennis legend and business entrepreneur Venus Williams. The General Session will also include insights you won’t get anywhere else, from industry leaders including Chris Nassetta, President of Hilton; Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line; and Chris Voss, former lead FBI hostage negotiator and author. The program will conclude with the presentation of several prestigious awards to game-changers in our industry.

Intermission: 10:45 - 11:05 AM

General Session sponsored by




Location: Trinity Ballroom

Discover the Silversea Difference!
For nearly 30 years, Silversea has been the leader in creating the most all-inclusive, ultra-luxury experiences for your clients. Our growing fleet of small, all-suite ships explores more than 900 destinations across all seven continents with a passion for revealing the world’s authentic beauty. As we move into the future, we remain hyper-focused on our exceptional standards of service, quality, immersive enrichment, and innovative solutions to help you grow your business.


'
Location: Cortez CD

ASTA welcomes Premium Members to our annual Premium Business Meeting and Reception which includes several expert speakers on key and compelling issues relevant today. ASTA Senior Vice President, Industry Affairs & Education, Mark Meader moderates our meeting followed by a Premium Members only cocktail and appetizers reception. You won’t want to miss the discussion on these timely topics. 

How to Fix Flying: The Need for Consumers & Travel Advisors to Unite
In January, American Economic Liberties Project and Vanderbilt University jointly released a white paper entitled "How to Fix Flying: A New Approach to Regulating the Airline Industry." The paper asserts that the broken promises of deregulation and unprecedented consolidation have combined to make flying miserable for passengers, workers, travel advisors, corporate travel departments, and entire cities and even regions of the country. AELP and Vanderbilt offer numerous recommendations to address problems with competition, regional inequality, pricing, passenger protections, and safety. The next steps entail building a coalition that will include advisors and travel agencies nationwide.  

Speaker: William J. McGee, Senior Fellow for Aviation & Travel, American Economic Liberties Project 

 

An Interview - Protecting Your Business: Strategies to Combat Fraud in the Travel Industry  
Don’t miss this opportunity to fortify your defenses and ensure a secure future for your travel agency. Tailored for owners of leisure and corporate travel agencies, ASTA’s Senior Vice President of Industry Affairs & Education talks with ARC leader Jeannine Hankinson for expert insights on combatting fraud as they delve into the intricate world of fraud prevention within the travel industry. With evolving fraud tactics, safeguarding your agency’s assets and reputation is paramount. Attendees will learn to identify and thwart phishing schemes, unauthorized ticketing, and other threats. Discover ARC's definition of reasonable care, essential steps for system protection, and the importance of Multifactor Authentication. Stay ahead of fraudulent trends with practical strategies from Jeannine's extensive experience.   

Speakers: Jeannine Hankinson, Managing Director of Operations & Customer Experience, Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC)
Mark Meader, Senior Vice President of Industry Affairs & Education, ASTA  

 

From Insights to Impact: Driving Agency Growth in a Changing World
As the travel industry continues to evolve rapidly, understanding the consumer is more critical than ever. This presentation offers a comprehensive look at the latest consumer trends that are shaping the industry. We'll provide practical considerations for travel agency owners to harness these insights effectively, ensuring your business not only adapts but thrives.
 

Speaker: Kulin Strimbu, Global Director, Research and Partnerships, Phocuswright

 

 

The Latest on ASTA’s Legal, Advocacy, and Communications Front    
Obtain firsthand knowledge on ASTA’s latest actions and activities stemming from the legal and advocacy priorities and our diligent work to date. ASTA’s drive to promote and defend the retail travel agency and advisor community remains at the forefront of ASTA priorities. Peter Lobasso and Erika Richter will update our audience on ASTA’s work on topical issues important to everyone, including what you can do to support these actions. 

Speakers: Peter Lobasso, Senior Vice President & General Counsel, ASTA  
Erika Richter, Vice President of Communications, ASTA

Sponsored by

Location: Stemmons Ballroom

Join us for an incredible session featuring Chris Voss, the former lead international FBI Hostage Negotiator and CEO/founder of The Black Swan Group. Dive into the world of negotiation with insights from his New York Times bestseller, Never Split the Difference.

In this captivating keynote, Chris unveils revolutionary concepts that go beyond traditional negotiation tactics. Learn the art of seeking a "no" instead of a "yes," employing empathy over logic to build trust with your counterpart, and uncovering game-changing information that may be hidden. This isn't just about negotiation; it's about transforming the way you approach challenges.

You'll discover how these techniques have not only won million-dollar lawsuits but also restored broken marriages. Chris's expertise has positively impacted countless lives, and now you have the opportunity to harness the power of negotiation to elevate your own professional journey. Don't miss out on this invaluable session that promises to bring tangible value to your role as a travel advisor.

Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

My life is travel and building a brand that creates magical memories for people around the world. In just the past few years my company, Travelmation, has more than doubled the number of agents and we are seeing significant growth unlike any other.  We’ve done that by building a company that is gaining recognition with agents, vendors and clients.

My session will reveal:

• How to create a recognizable brand in all the noise
• Marketing in new & innovative ways
• Giving your agents independence while still representing your brand
• What former methods to lose to thrive in 2023 and beyond

Location: Metropolitan

Top 5 Things to Know as a New/Experienced Advisor
Follow along as Delta Business and Delta Vacations showcase hard skill applications for booking business and leisure travel. Whether you’re a new or experienced advisor, this hands-on session will provide the tools you need to continue developing your business.





Location: Metropolitan

How to leverage a Consortia and DMC to grow your business!
Mark Stubbert, Vice President of Member Relations and Lindsey Meeks, Director of Business Development at Ensemble, will lead an insightful Lunch and Learn session where they share the compelling findings of a survey conducted among travel advisors, shedding light on the evolving landscape of the travel industry. Against the backdrop of AI and technology's omnipresence, Mark will reveal how the industry is leveraging human expertise to elevate the role and prominence of travel advisors.
Francisco Blanch, Leisure Director Puerto Rico tourism board, will also be involved in the discussion sharing insights and educating advisors on the destination, gastronomy, and regions.



Location: Coronado BCD

Reviews are essential for any travel advisor or agency that wants to succeed online. They help potential customers learn more about you and build trust and loyalty with your agency. However, many advisors choke on asking for reviews or rely solely on impersonal, automated emails to do the heavy lifting. Jenn will explore why reviews (Google is the only one that counts!) are vital, share tips on requesting effective reviews, discuss leveraging these reviews on social media, and offer guidance on responding to positive and negative feedback.

Sponsored by



Location: Coronado BCD

Explore Africa with Hungwe Travel
Africa! A rich and vibrant continent and home to 54 (55) countries. With over 2,000 languages and an abundant cultural heritage, join us for an adventure exploring the numerous experiences the continent has to offer.
Secure your spot for this exclusive opportunity to enhance your knowledge and elevate your travel insights as we delve into:
• Tourism across the continent
• What to expect on a visit: Stunning natural beauty, Incredible wildlife & flora, Rich traditions in art, music & dance, Aromatic cuisines, Welcoming people, Bustling cities, and Business/Trade & Commerce

The African continent is truly and literally a gem that has something for everyone. Hungwe Travel is grateful for the opportunity to serve you and your clients with enriching experiences across Africa.



Location: Cortez AB

Six Hawaiian Islands, Six Pure Experiences. Cultural and Eco Tourism - Going Beyond Traditional Tourism
From crystal blue waters to stunning green cliffs and black sand beaches, Hawai‘i’s wide-open spaces are the breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable encounters with a vibrant culture that rewards travelers seeking to expand their horizons. And, for the most enriching experience of Hawai‘i, encourage clients to join efforts to malama (care for) this special place and unique culture.

This session will provide insights into the growing interest in cultural and eco-tourism focusing on authentic experiences, indigenous culture, and eco-friendly activities throughout the Hawaiian Islands.


Location: Coronado BCD

Did you know that AI can now write your marketing copy? Create videos with your digital likeness? Provide subjective advice to your clients? Produce training for your employees? Even if you're on the fence about trusting artificial intelligence tools, knowing about these technologies, especially when combined with forms of synthetic media (think deep fakes, but not nefarious), is important for any leader. Examining these tools through the frame of customer experience, you'll learn about the evolution of communication technologies, how artificial intelligence has expanded our range of connective possibilities, and how to strategically implement AI in your business.

Location: Cortez CD

Viking: Your BEST Business Partner
Join us on a journey through the World of Viking and see why Viking is your Best Business Partner. Learn about what’s new with Viking as well as successful and proven business practices that will help you grow your Viking business whether you’re a seasoned advisor or new to travel.



Location: Coronado A

For the young or young at heart! ASTA Young Professional Society (YPS) members are invited to gather to mix and mingle at this year's reception sponsored by Virgin Voyages. Also, don't forget to say Hi to our Chief Fun Officer (CFO), Alle Pierce and ASTA Staff members, who will be joining the fun! 

Not an ASTA YPS member, but interested in joining? Come see what we’re all about. 

Transportation is available from the Hilton Lobby at 5:15 PM.

Sponsored by


Location: Virgin Hotel Dallas

How to increase your sales with Multi-Gen Travel Presented by Royal Caribbean International
Family/ Multi-Gen travel is one of the fastest growing segments of travel. Come learn all about it from the family travel experts at Royal Caribbean International. This session will be packed with tips that highlight why a cruise is the best option for families, particularly a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Family groups are highly profitable. They help you cultivate new, and grow repeat business. We will also share proven best practices you can implement into your business today. See you there!



Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

Join us for an enlightening session that equips you with the knowledge to travel responsibly, safely, and confidently. Discover crisis management strategies for effective decision-making, communication, and coordination with local authorities, with an emphasis on contingency planning for natural disasters, political unrest, or public health emergencies. Uncover the power of technological solutions, from real-time emergency alerts to language translation apps, empowering travelers to make informed decisions, navigate unfamiliar territories, and seek assistance in emergencies. Finally, embrace responsible travel behavior, advocating for cultural sensitivity, environmental consciousness, and adherence to local laws, promoting a positive interaction between travelers and host communities.

Location: Metropolitan

Reviews are essential for any travel advisor or agency that wants to succeed online. They help potential customers learn more about you and build trust and loyalty with your agency. However, many advisors choke on asking for reviews or rely solely on impersonal, automated emails to do the heavy lifting. Jenn will explore why reviews (Google is the only one that counts!) are vital, share tips on requesting effective reviews, discuss leveraging these reviews on social media, and offer guidance on responding to positive and negative feedback.

Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

Communication is key. But what happens when the people communicating are speaking different languages? Learn what type of communicator you are and how to reach across that divide to influence others who communicate in a different way. A combination of communication skills, NLP, improvisation, and psychology will imbue the audience with new skills and understanding to make sure their message is heard, effective and productive. Whether between coworkers, team members, bosses or in front of an audience, this workshop will up your game and allow you to accomplish more with less misunderstanding and confusion.
This program is for anyone that wants to learn more about communication style, conscious communication, thinking on their feet, direct and inferred communication and how to get what you want with different personality types.

• Participants will learn the different types and styles of communication.
• Practice how to approach people using their language to get their message heard and their objectives met.
• Quick ways to think on their feet.
• Learn how to bring out the inner extrovert or tone down energy to not frighten the introverts away.
• NLP (neuro linguistic programming) skills for communication.

Location: Coronado BCD

WEAR A SPLASH OF RED
Scarlet Night

Step into the enchanting world of Scarlet Night, where we celebrate the timeless love story of the mysterious Goddess of the Sea and the Sailor who won her affection. Join us in raising funds for ASTAPAC, as we unite our voices to advocate for our priorities in Congress. Enjoy an evening of mesmerizing music and delightful surprises that promise an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out—come and immerse yourself in the magic of Scarlet Night!

Sponsored by



Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

Join Travefy's Scott Rutz to as for a deep dive into the world of sales and uncovering the fundamentals of creating powerful, repeatable sales process that enables advisors to build their business personally and across a team.
In this session we'll cover:
• Sales fundamentals and best practices
• Build a Sales workflow to increase sales and efficiency
• How to scale a sales process across a team

Location: Cortez AB

Get ready to take your business to the next level! Join us for an empowering session led by Timm Johnson, Director of the Mason SBDC at George Mason University. Discover game-changing strategies, invaluable tips, and expert advice to fuel your business growth journey. You'll walk away with the understanding on how to: 

• Enhance your digital footprint 
• Master financial management 
• Navigate the hiring process 
• Unlock the power of free expert assistance from programs like the SBDC

Plus, get all your burning questions answered to propel your business forward with confidence! See you there! 

Location: Cortez AB

VTA Fast Track Option: ASTA is providing two preparatory courses for advisors aiming to obtain their VTA accreditation during the conference. Attendees are required to participate in both preparatory sessions and the VTA Testing on Friday, May 31st.

Prepare for the VTA test by exploring ethical considerations and core principles essential for travel advisors. Explore real-world case studies, equip yourself with tools to address ethical challenges, and gain insights into legal issues critical for safeguarding your business and clients.

Location: Cortez CD

Discover the Silversea Difference!
For nearly 30 years, Silversea has been the leader in creating the most all-inclusive, ultra-luxury experiences for your clients. Our growing fleet of small, all-suite ships explores more than 900 destinations across all seven continents with a passion for revealing the world’s authentic beauty. As we move into the future, we remain hyper-focused on our exceptional standards of service, quality, immersive enrichment, and innovative solutions to help you grow your business.


'
Location: Cortez CD

Join us for an enlightening session that equips you with the knowledge to travel responsibly, safely, and confidently. Discover crisis management strategies for effective decision-making, communication, and coordination with local authorities, with an emphasis on contingency planning for natural disasters, political unrest, or public health emergencies. Uncover the power of technological solutions, from real-time emergency alerts to language translation apps, empowering travelers to make informed decisions, navigate unfamiliar territories, and seek assistance in emergencies. Finally, embrace responsible travel behavior, advocating for cultural sensitivity, environmental consciousness, and adherence to local laws, promoting a positive interaction between travelers and host communities.

Location: Metropolitan

Join us for the latest insights from Jessica Klement, ASTA's Vice President, Advocacy, as she brings you up to date on the freshest updates from Capitol Hill. Jessie will provide a complete rundown of the ongoing legislative concerns and advocacy campaigns that have a direct impact on the travel advisor industry.

Location: Coronado BCD

Customers have a choice to put their precious family, and safety, in the hands of travel advisors. Owning our power and presence is essential in conveying our value, attracting new customers, and ensuring our current customers are at ease. Can you explain what you do confidently and concisely? Can you convey the essence of a complex travel experience to a customer who has just a minute? Learn to make your precious words count when you are given limited time.

Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

Join us at the Southwest Airlines headquarters for a one-of-a kind party with food, drinks and entertainment!

Transportation is available from the Hilton Lobby at 6:30 PM.



Location: Southwest HQ

Upon completion of both VTA Preparatory sessions, participants become eligible to earn their VTA accreditation. Advisors who have registered for and attended both preparatory sessions can showcase their grasp of the course material to attain the Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) accreditation. Once students complete and pass the test, they will confirm their expertise but also establish themselves as a reliable and respected travel advisor. This is an excellent opportunity to enhance your credentials and reaffirm your commitment to professionalism and ethical standards in the travel industry. 

Location: Metropolitan

How to increase your sales with Multi-Gen Travel Presented by Royal Caribbean International
Family/ Multi-Gen travel is one of the fastest growing segments of travel. Come learn all about it from the family travel experts at Royal Caribbean International. This session will be packed with tips that highlight why a cruise is the best option for families, particularly a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Family groups are highly profitable. They help you cultivate new, and grow repeat business. We will also share proven best practices you can implement into your business today. See you there!



Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

This event is invitation only. 

Location: Carpenter Ballroom

Join us for a little exercise and fun to help support a great cause at the sixth annual ASTAPAC Fun Run! Proceeds support ASTA's advocacy efforts. Registration is $50 and includes a fun run t-shirt.

Please note! The deadline to sign up was MAY 10. We have extended registration, however, t-shirts are now based on availability. 

For more information, visit our Fun Run webpage. 

Sponsored by



Location: Departure will be from the Hilton West Wing Lobby

Top 5 Things to Know as a New/Experienced Advisor
Follow along as Delta Business and Delta Vacations showcase hard skill applications for booking business and leisure travel. Whether you’re a new or experienced advisor, this hands-on session will provide the tools you need to continue developing your business.





Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

Dominican Republic an endless Summer Destination!
Calling all travel agents to embark on a journey of discovery and opportunities. Delve into the latest destination updates and thrilling developments awaiting your clients. Learn firsthand about the perks of our new rewards program and the invaluable insights our training program offers.

Be prepared to be rewarded! Exciting prizes await, including the chance to win a complimentary stay in the picturesque Punta Cana. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to enhance your knowledge, expand your offerings, and elevate your business. Mark your calendars and secure your spot for an enriching experience that promises both education and excitement.

Location: Metropolitan

We know that providing great customer experiences involves personalized touches--but those touches take a lot of time and have not always been possible at scale. Now, by having your data in order and integrating your systems with AI tools, personalized, customized touchpoints for your customers can be created at scale! In this session we'll cover strategies for not only examining points of automation in your CX process, we'll also discuss the steps you need to start thinking about today to leverage advancements in generative AI technologies and personally trained large language models (LLMs). Those attending will get a road map for what is possible when effective data management and AI collide--broken down in terminology that those with an average understanding of technology can understand. For those who want a more general and broad-sweeping session on AI, check out AI, Synthetic Media, and Your Customer Experience (CX): Leverage Technology to Improve Your Communicative Touch points (two sessions on May 31st). This session focuses more on customizing applications in your business. (Attending both is welcomed!)

Location: Metropolitan

Don't miss out! Secure your spot for an interactive session exploring the complex landscape of legal pitfalls for travel advisors. Attendees will dive into real-life scenarios and interactive discussions to learn how to navigate common traps and protect your agency from legal consequences. Walk away with actionable strategies to mitigate risks, grasp your legal boundaries, and uphold professionalism in all client interactions. Join us this morning to broaden your legal expertise—it's an opportunity you won't want to pass up!

Location: Coronado BCD

Rise and shine for this early morning session on forging powerful partnerships with suppliers to drive mutual success and profitability in your travel business. Discover expert strategies on how to effectively prepare for and approach suppliers, along with invaluable tips on what to ask for and how to make your requests count.

This session promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to:

• Navigate supplier relationships with confidence and clarity
• Cultivate long-term partnerships that fuel growth and profitability
• Implement actionable strategies to enhance your supplier network and elevate your business

Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the full potential of your partnerships with suppliers!

Location: Coronado BCD

This session is tailored to assist new travel agents and agency owners in maximizing their financial resources. Gain insights into enhancing the value of your money, enabling you to expand services and establish a financially secure agency.

In this session, we'll delve into the intricacies of cash flow projections, balance sheets, and profit & loss statements. Learn how money circulates within your business and acquire the tools to make informed financial decisions.

Location: Coronado A

If you sell travel, run a small business, are new to the industry, or an agency employee – meet us at Gossip Bar to pre-game the welcome reception. You’ll be welcomed by familiar faces and friends. If it's your inaugural Conference or you're just dipping your toes into the industry waters, fear not – grab a drink, find a comfy spot, and rest assured, a warm and friendly face will seek you out. 

Don't miss the opportunity to clink glasses, forge valuable connections, and set the stage for an unforgettable conference experience.  

Thanks to Visit Anchorage for helping us kick off our networking fun!  

Sponsored by


Location: Gossip Bar

Business plans are like road maps: it’s possible to travel without one, but that will only increase the odds of getting lost along the way. Owners with a business plan see growth 30% faster than those without one. A good business plan is not a novel that gets written and put on a shelf. In this session you will learn simple and efficient steps to set a vision that your entire office contributes to. Also how to create accountability with defined strategies and actions. Key elements we will cover:

 

• Understanding what’s working and not working in your business has been a guiding process/tool ALGV uses in all plans and strategies.

• How to define goals, outcomes and ownership.

• Tracking updates and results.

Sponsored by


Location: Coronado A

Communication is key. But what happens when the people communicating are speaking different languages? Learn what type of communicator you are and how to reach across that divide to influence others who communicate in a different way. A combination of communication skills, NLP, improvisation, and psychology will imbue the audience with new skills and understanding to make sure their message is heard, effective and productive. Whether between coworkers, team members, bosses or in front of an audience, this workshop will up your game and allow you to accomplish more with less misunderstanding and confusion.
This program is for anyone that wants to learn more about communication style, conscious communication, thinking on their feet, direct and inferred communication and how to get what you want with different personality types.

• Participants will learn the different types and styles of communication.
• Practice how to approach people using their language to get their message heard and their objectives met.
• Quick ways to think on their feet.
• Learn how to bring out the inner extrovert or tone down energy to not frighten the introverts away.
• NLP (neuro linguistic programming) skills for communication.

Location: Coronado BCD

Get ready to take your business to the next level! Join us for an empowering session led by Timm Johnson, Director of the Mason SBDC at George Mason University. Discover game-changing strategies, invaluable tips, and expert advice to fuel your business growth journey. You'll walk away with the understanding on how to: 

• Enhance your digital footprint 
• Master financial management 
• Navigate the hiring process 
• Unlock the power of free expert assistance from programs like the SBDC

Plus, get all your burning questions answered to propel your business forward with confidence! See you there! 

Location: Cortez AB

This session will enable new travel advisors to confidently build and grow successful businesses. We will cover discovering your niche, communication channels for each stage of the traveler lifecycle, and tools for streamlining operations. Advisors will leave this session with a clear path forward and action items to launch, run, and grow their business!

Location: Coronado A

Discovering the Philippines: Tailoring Your Itinerary for First-Time Travelers
Lunch & Learn Session Description
This content aims to provide a holistic guide for first-timers to the Philippines, blending cultural immersion with the discovery of hidden treasures. It offers customized itineraries catering to diverse preferences, including adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. The guide would showcase destinations that offer unique and enriching experiences, along with recommendations for traditional festivals, local communities, authentic cuisine, and activities that provide a deep cultural understanding. This approach ensures that travelers not only explore the beauty of the Philippines but also engage in meaningful cultural experiences, creating a well-rounded and personalized journey.



Location: Cortez AB

Whether an entrepreneur owning your own travel business or an employee managing a book of business, this session is for you. Maintaining relevancy, efficiency, and profitability is top of mind for advisors yet often not a priority. To successfully execute changes within your business you need a clear plan and a clear path. The plan includes the ideas, strategies, and initiatives to drive results and create change. Join this session and walk away with skills to: 

• Assess your business 
• Determine needs and opportunities 
• Create a customized strategy to address the needs and opportunities 
• Develop an execution plan 

Location: Cortez AB

This session is tailored to assist new travel agents and agency owners in maximizing their financial resources. Gain insights into enhancing the value of your money, enabling you to expand services and establish a financially secure agency.

In this session, we'll delve into the intricacies of cash flow projections, balance sheets, and profit & loss statements. Learn how money circulates within your business and acquire the tools to make informed financial decisions.

Location: Coronado A

Whether an entrepreneur owning your own travel business or an employee managing a book of business, this session is for you. Maintaining relevancy, efficiency, and profitability is top of mind for advisors yet often not a priority. To successfully execute changes within your business you need a clear plan and a clear path. The plan includes the ideas, strategies, and initiatives to drive results and create change. Join this session and walk away with skills to: 

• Assess your business 
• Determine needs and opportunities 
• Create a customized strategy to address the needs and opportunities 
• Develop an execution plan 

Location: Cortez AB

Join Travefy's Scott Rutz to as for a deep dive into the world of sales and uncovering the fundamentals of creating powerful, repeatable sales process that enables advisors to build their business personally and across a team.
In this session we'll cover:
• Sales fundamentals and best practices
• Build a Sales workflow to increase sales and efficiency
• How to scale a sales process across a team

Location: Cortez AB

Join us for this highly interactive workshop, designed to boost your confidence and amplify your voice. Finesse the art of introducing yourself, (and others), and practice conveying important concepts with the fewest possible words. Leave with simple and effective tools that you can use immediately to increase the quality of your presence and influence.

Location: Wedgewood Ballroom

Did you know that AI can now write your marketing copy? Create videos with your digital likeness? Provide subjective advice to your clients? Produce training for your employees? Even if you're on the fence about trusting artificial intelligence tools, knowing about these technologies, especially when combined with forms of synthetic media (think deep fakes, but not nefarious), is important for any leader. Examining these tools through the frame of customer experience, you'll learn about the evolution of communication technologies, how artificial intelligence has expanded our range of connective possibilities, and how to strategically implement AI in your business.

Location: Cortez CD

Sponsored by

In honor of the recently launched Carnival Jubilee, we're bringing all the fun of the Texas State Fair right to ASTA Travel Advisor Conference. Join us on the Jade Oval Lawn at the Hilton Anatole for a fun kickoff event, complete with carnival games, a dunk tank, carnival-themed food and drink and live entertainment on the main stage. Of course, no Texas carnival is complete without armadillo races and a mechanical bull! 

Sponsored by Carnival Cruise Line & Hilton


Location: Grand Atrium 

Transfers will pick-up in the hotel Grand Entrance (Atrium) lobby at 5:30 PM

Location: Jalisco Norte (Offsite)

Sponsored by

Join us for a special Mentoring Program Meetup where past and present mentors and mentees, along with members of the Mentoring Committee, come together to network, sharing insights, and fostering meaningful connections. 

Whether you've been a part of our mentoring program in the past, are currently involved as a mentor or mentee, or are simply interested in learning more about mentorship opportunities, this event is for you! We welcome all who are eager to connect with participants in the program and engage in enriching conversations. 

Location: ASTA Hub - Trinity Foyer

Rolling transfers will begin at 8:00 PM to take you back to the hotel at your leisure. 

This session will provide attendees an overview of the re-imagined ASTA Travel Advisor Conference. This conference is specifically crafted to hone in on the foundations of business such as entrepreneurship and business development.

Our team will help you understand how to navigate the three different tracks available during the conference.

• Cultivate: for those newer to the industry
• Accelerate: for those more focused on business growth
• Innovate: for mid-large sized agency owners/managers

If you are a new or longtime member of ASTA this session will show you how to navigate the resources, tools and programs available to you as a member of ASTA. Attendees will also get a sneak preview to the enhanced continuing education program and the updated Verified Travel Advisor program and updates on how ASTA is continuing to enhance your business.
 

Sponsored by


Location: Stemmons Ballroom

Location: Trinity Exhibit Hall

ASTA's annual Advocacy Dinner is an exclusive, black-tie event highlighting the important role ASTA plays in advocating on behalf of the travel advisor industry. Invitation only. 

Get ready to roll out the ASTA Blue Carpet, sponsored by Viking. Your evening feast, courtesy of Celebrity Cruises, will tantalize your taste buds. Head to the Avis Bar for some spirited fun, and let Royal Caribbean rock your night with fantastic entertainment.



For more information, please view the Advocacy Dinner web page.

Transportation is available from the Hilton lobby at 6:30 PM.

Location: The Thompson Hotel Dallas

Come say hello to the ASTA Team and pick up your event badge!

Registration Lounge:
Sponsored by Discover Puerto Rico, the ASTA Hub will be setup throughout the event and feature spaces to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, or pop open your laptop to check your email between sessions. 

We will also have an ASTA Member Lounge setup near registration. You'll be able to pickup your ribbons, visit our SWAG SHOP, and connect with our membership team. 

Registration Lounge (ASTA Hub) Sponsored by


Location: Trinity Foyer

NEW!

Attendees and participating exhibitors will complete a detailed survey (no longer than 10 minutes) that will match them together to create a matched meeting. Attendees will automatically be connected with Exhibitors for matched meetings.

If you choose to participate in the Matched Meetings session, attending all assigned appointments is required. 

Location: Trinity Exhibit Hall

Connect with your local chapter and hear from our partners at Carnival Cruise Line and Travel Savers/Nest. 



Location: Chantily West 

Breakfast sponsored by Majestic Resorts, Lunch sponsored by Wyndam Hotels. 


Location: Obelisk Ballroom

This event is invite only. 

Location: Carpenter Ballroom

Sponsored by


Location: The Thompson, Pick up in the Anatole lobby at 6:00 PM

 

NEW!

This Premium Appointment time block is used for exhibitors to host meetings with attendees in designated lounge space on the trade show floor. These meetings are to be set up at your discretion. Appointments will be scheduled directly by exhibitors. 

Exhibitors, please note: This is an add-on option to your registration. If you purchased Matched Meetings, premium appointments will be included. Please reach out to exhibit@asta.org for more information.  

Location: Trinity Exhibit Hall