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Tony Muia: Serving Groups a True Slice of Brooklyn page 4
5 MINUTES WITH... Lynn Hoogerhyde page 20
READERS’ CHOICE 2025
10
ISSUES
What’s to Come in 2026: Predictions from the Industry page 6
EDUCATION
Business and Tax Planning: What to Know This Coming Season page 18 IN EVERY ISSUE Editor's Letter 2 | Online 2 | Spotlight 16 | Ad
19
A NOTE FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR
And just like that, another year of travel, fun and memories is drawing to a close. When I ponder where I’ve traveled this past year, I also reflect upon the lessons it’s all taught me, and how these adventures truly create a ripple that continues to spread long after the trip ends. I urge you to reflect, as well, on what travel has taught you in 2025 and how those lessons can propel you into a fantastic 2026.
In this issue, we recap the year from the eyes of our readers with our 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards (pg. 10)! From hands-on experiences and live performance venues to the top destinations of the year and more, we share the results of who topped your list this year. And keeping in theme with a new year approaching, we asked industry leaders and experts for their predictions on what’s to come in 2026; turn to page 4 to learn what they had to say.
Preparation is key for a successful year of travel, and the same can be said for your taxes. Turn to page 18 to learn what key tax changes and notable updates travel professionals should know, what costly mistakes travel business should avoid, why business continuity planning is valuable, and more.
If you’ve taken a group to Brooklyn, New York, you’ve probably heard of A Taste of Brooklyn Bus Tours. As they celebrate 20 years of giving groups an authentic Brooklyn experience, we chatted with owner Tony Muia on page 6 and got the scoop on how he brought his passion for his hometown to life. We also caught up with Lynn Hoogerhyde, Team Lead Sales and Agency Management at Flix North America, Inc., on page 20 to get their perspective on proudest moments and industry opportunities.
Happy Holidays and Safe Travels from the team here at Groups Today
SARAH SUYDAM Managing Editor sarah@serendipity-media.com
Send your stories, suggestions and thoughts to:
519 Ada Dr SE, Suite 201 Ada, MI 49301
sarah@serendipity-media.com
By Sarah Suydam
TONY MUIA:
Serving Groups a True Slice of Brooklyn
AAs a Respiratory Therapist of 20 years, Tony Muia spent his days taking care of people on ventilators. During his time off, he enjoyed traveling to discover new places.
“I worked 12-hour shifts, which afforded me four days a week of travel time,” Muia recalled. On his travels around the world, he’d often ask locals for advice and information. “Many times, they’d even show me around.”
During these conversations, it became apparent to Muia that people were fascinated with his hometown, Brooklyn, New York.
“Whether it was pizza, Coney Island, the Brooklyn Dodgers or even movies shot in Brooklyn, when those same people would in turn visit New York City, I’d show them Brooklyn like they showed me their hometowns.”
By 2003, Muia was burned out from working in healthcare and needed a change. He’d since been jokingly dubbed “The Ambassador of Brooklyn” by friends, family and visitors, so on August 1, 2005, he founded A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours (asliceofbrooklyn.com), a company offering guided bus tours showcasing Brooklyn’s favorite foods, neighborhoods, landmarks and movie locations. His Pizza Tour was the company’s first offering.
“We provide step-on guide service for groups, as well as discounted group pricing, and can accommodate up to 55 passengers on every tour,” Muia explained. “We also use a different audio-visual DVD presentation on the screens of the bus for every tour with slides, music, and movie clips to enhance the overall tour experience. At the end of each tour, everyone receives a commemorative, souvenir fridge magnet of the tour to take home. Our tours include the Pizza Tour, the Chocolate Tour, the Best of Brooklyn Tour and the Christmas Lights Tour.”
As 2025 marks 20 years as a company, Muia takes great pride in all he’s accomplished along the way, including being voted the no. 1 tour of Brooklyn five years in a row and being featured on Good Morning America, TODAY, the Travel Channel and Good Morning Britain—among others.
“We’ve done private tours for large corporations, employee outings, team building events, and grandparents bringing their families back to the old neighborhoods on their birthdays to show them where they grew up,” Muia said. “We’ve even done wedding parties—both before and after the wedding!”
DID YOU KNOW?
Tony loves heavy metal and his favorite band is Motorhead. “I’ve seen them 75 times, met them numerous times and got Lemmy’s autograph tattooed on my arm after he signed it before a show.”
Muia’s passion for Brooklyn shines through, just as it did in 2005 when he assisted then Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz in his push to develop Brooklyn Tourism. He’s since seen the destination explode in popularity, and has grown alongside it while continuing to offer visitors the authentic Brooklyn experience.
“One of the best compliments we’ve ever received was when a client said they felt like a friend was showing them around and they were receiving a real insider’s view of Brooklyn,” said Muia, who gave this straightforward reply when asked if he had anything else to add to our conversation: “Manhattan? FUHGETTABOUDIT!”
Industry leaders and experts share their 2026 predictions.
Stephen
Ekstrom,
CEO & Co-founder | Learn Tourism
“In 2026, the most successful destinations won’t just sell experiences—they’ll sell alignment. We’ll see a surge of ‘values visitors,’ travelers who deliberately choose destinations that share their ethics, whether that’s sustainability, inclusivity, cultural preservation, or community well-being. This isn’t a passing preference—it’s a primary filter for where people spend their time and money. Destinations that make their values visible, integrate them into every step of the visitor journey, and empower local champions to share those stories will stand out … The future of tourism isn’t just about where you go, but what you stand for when you get there.”
Carylann Assante, CAE, CEO | SYTA, SYTA Youth Foundation
“Technology will impact a blended learning experience for traveling student groups and a blended planning experience for tour operators.
Students will continue to use online learning tools, and social media like TikTok, to enhance their travels—researching destinations, looking for sustainable activities and engaging with the local community before they arrive. AI will help student tour operators research and build itineraries that meet client needs while looking for that special added value, and in turn, allow for more time spent with clients and building stronger vendor relationships.
Today, we already see new technology platforms that create efficiencies in planning and logistics that manage group bookings, registrations, rooming lists and even payments. I see technology helping tour operators become more efficient and reach more educators, getting even more students on the road.”
Fred Ferguson, President and CEO | ABA
“If current trade policy uncertainty remains, the challenges we’re seeing in 2025 will only deepen in 2026. New motorcoach sales fell 5% in Q2—clear evidence that trade policy driven cost increases and policy uncertainty are already stalling market activity. Without change, we anticipate further declines as operators delay or cancel fleet investments. This puts strain on the 500,000 Americans whose livelihoods depend on the group travel sector and delays critical safety and sustainability upgrades. Despite uncertainty, our industry remains resilient. We’ve weathered past disruptions, and will again. With the right policy shifts, 2026 can still be a year of renewal—one where we reinvest in efficient fleets, safer roads, and a stronger transportation system that serves both the economy and the public. Trade policy certainty is more than a fix—it’s a foundation for future mobility and national transportation readiness.”
Edited by Sarah Suydam
Catherine Prather, President | NTA
“U.S. domestic travel will level off for some from its recent steady climb, while international inbound numbers—especially from Canada—will continue to lag. Strong interest for 2027 will buoy optimism and continue to drive collaboration and business. Two trends will continue, and both are connected with a tightening of discretionary spending on travel: more interest in shorter tours (two to four days) and a tighter booking window.
What I hope to see is respect among lawmakers for the financial and diplomatic contributions our industry provides. Harsh policies, excessive fees, and inadequate funding for marketing and infrastructure all have an adverse effect on travel and tourism. And on a bigger scale, policies that increase economic uncertainty and decrease consumer confidence discourage people from traveling. I hope to see more travel ahead, because meaningful travel leads to peace, understanding, and economic stability within communities.”
Vince Accardi, CAE, President | Motor Coach Canada
“Group motor coach travel will be even more personalized, sustainable, and technology driven. Tour operators will use technology while harnessing their industry relationships and experience to create dynamic itineraries based on client preferences and local events. Passengers can expect quieter, comfortable coaches with high-speed Wi-Fi, entertainment hubs, and ergonomic seating … Sustainability will become a prominent selling point, and tour operators will emphasize carbon offset programs, the benefits of low-emission bus fleets, and continue to feature local and Indigenous experiences.
Safety and convenience will also evolve. Digital booking platforms will integrate features like instant rebooking and social platform tools will build on traveler experiences. As group travel becomes more immersive, efficient, and responsible, motor coach travel will once again become a preferred choice for exploration and be a catalyst for social and cultural connection in 2026 and beyond.”
Greg Takehara, CEO | Tourism Cares
“The convergence of the FIFA World Cup and the United States’ 250th anniversary offers a transformational moment for travel and tourism. These milestone events will bring millions of visitors, and with that comes a responsibility. Destinations must welcome these international visitors with open arms, ensuring these events leave a positive legacy for host communities, cultures, and the environment. Sustainable tourism is no longer optional—it’s essential. Travelers are increasingly seeking meaningful, authentic experiences, and destinations that embrace environmental responsibility, community engagement, and inclusivity will thrive. At Tourism Cares, we’ve already seen how collaboration across the industry can advance real impact, and 2026 presents a moment to accelerate this progress. The destinations and businesses that weave purpose into every aspect of travel will define the next era of tourism.”
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WHEN TRAVEL CHANGES YOU
Discover how travel can lead to journeys that inspire personal growth and self-discovery. Explore transformative travel experiences across Egypt, Morocco, Peru, Southeast Asia, and more with Collette.
There’s something universally captivating about stories of personal growth through travel. Films like Eat Pray Love, Wild, and Under the Tuscan Sun show us how journeys to distant lands can spark transformation and healing. These narratives resonate because they reflect our own desire for adventure and personal evolution.
There are some destinations on this planet that seem to exist simply so we can discover something about ourselves in them. Transcending trends, they continue to stand the test of time, beckoning travelers over the centuries who are drawn to ancient cultures, iconic wildlife, epic landscapes, and mysteries found far from home.
Let’s explore some timeless destinations that invite us to look inward.
EGYPT: The Land of Pharaohs
Standing before the Pyramids of Giza or exploring Luxor’s temples, travelers encounter the scale and endurance of ancient civilization. Egypt’s spiritual tapestry—woven from mythologies and diverse traditions—offers perspective on identity and legacy. Whether meditating in the desert or sharing tea in a bustling souk, visitors often leave with a renewed sense of humility and interconnectedness.
MOROCCO: A Tapestry of Cultures
In Morocco, ancient traditions and modern life coexist in vibrant harmony. Wandering through Fez or Marrakech, travelers enter a sensory world of color, scent, and sound. From the quiet hospitality of Berber villages to the vast silence of the Sahara, Morocco invites presence and curiosity. Encounters with nomadic families or women’s cooperatives reveal cultural nuances and shared humanity.
JORDAN: The Jewel of the Middle East
Jordan is a land of quiet strength and sacred stories. From the rose-red city of Petra to the serene expanse of Wadi Rum, the landscape itself feels like a spiritual guide. Travelers often leave with a renewed sense of humility and awe, having walked paths once taken by prophets and nomads. The warmth of Jordanian hospitality and the country’s deep-rooted Bedouin culture teach lessons in generosity, simplicity, and connection to the land.
AFRICAN SAFARIS: The Call of the Wild
An African safari offers more than just breathtaking wildlife encounters—it’s a profound
reconnection with the natural world and our place within it. Watching elephants move in silent communion, hearing a lion’s roar echo across the savanna, or witnessing the delicate balance of predator and prey awakens a deep sense of awe and humility.
In the stillness of dawn game drives or under starlit skies, it’s possible to rediscover a primal rhythm that modern life tends to obscure. Safaris cultivate mindfulness, patience, and respect for the interconnectedness of all life.
PERU’S MACHU PICCHU: The Incan Legacy
Peru is a journey into the mystical heart of the Andes. Whether trekking to Machu Picchu or participating in a traditional Quechua ceremony, immerse yourself in a worldview where nature and spirit are deeply intertwined. Let the reverence for Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the legacy of the Inca civilization inspire a renewed respect for ecological balance, ancestral knowledge, and the sacredness of everyday life.
SOUTHEAST ASIA: Tranquil and Spiritual
Traveling through Southeast Asia offers journeys into layered histories, spiritual depth, and the quiet power of resilience. In Cambodia, the majestic spires of Angkor Wat rise from the jungle as a testament to both architectural brilliance and enduring faith, inviting reflection on the sacred and the impermanent. Vietnam offers
a dynamic blend of energy and introspection— from the buzz of Hanoi’s streets to the serene limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. In Laos, time seems to slow amid misty mountains and golden temples, offering a sanctuary for mindfulness and simplicity.
INDIA: A Spiritual Odyssey
India stirs both the senses and the soul. From the Taj Mahal’s beauty to Ranthambore’s wild tigers, India inspires wonder. Sacred rituals along the Ganges and Himalayan stillness invite introspection. Its diversity of languages, faiths, and philosophies expands empathy and challenges assumptions. Whether through a shared meal or a temple visit, India leaves travelers transformed.
TRAVEL DEEPER ON A GUIDED TOUR
Travel can lead to life-changing experiences, offering insights into different cultures, histories, and ways of life. As you embark on your own journeys, remember to embrace the changes and growth that come with exploring the world.
Learn more about Collette’s tours to timeless destinations all over the world, including South and Central America, Asia, North Africa and the Middle East, and African safaris. Visit www.gocollette.com/groups.
READERS’ CHOICE
CVB OR DMO: CITY/REGION | Visit Orlando
Visit Orlando is The Official Tourism Association® for Orlando, the most visited destination in the U.S., Theme Park Capital of the World® and the country’s no. 1 meeting destination. Home to eight of the world’s top theme parks, a dynamic dining scene with Michelin-recognized restaurants, and a robust calendar of entertainment and sports events, Orlando is the perfect group destination!
CVB OR DMO: STATE/PROVINCE | Circle Michigan
With over 40 years’ experience, Circle Michigan helps tour planners create memorable group tours. Michigan’s identity is shaped by four Great Lakes, and two peninsulas full of natural wonders. Each region is distinctive and offers hidden gems, world-class attractions, museums, festivals, orchards, and stunning shorelines ready for groups to explore.
ACCOMMODATIONS | Gaylord Hotels
Gaylord Hotels brings people together in extraordinary ways across its six destination resorts. Purpose-built to host exceptional meetings and events of all sizes, Gaylord Hotels offers a unique, all-under-one-roof experience with more than 3.2 million square feet of meeting space, expansive atriums, five water parks and a wide range of dining and shopping outlets.
BEER, WINE OR SPIRIT TRAIL/SCENE | Kentucky Bourbon Trail
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour invites visitors to explore America’s signature spirit across over 60 iconic distillery experiences in the scenic Bluegrass State. Celebrated as the world’s most revered spirits tourism experience, it offers immersive tours, tastings, and unforgettable stories behind the heritage, craftsmanship, and culture of Kentucky Bourbon.
Since 1974, Mellow Mushroom has been slinging pizzas with personality, whether you’re into the Mighty Meaty, the Veg Out, the Kosmic Karma or the Pacific Rim. Groups love the establishment’s ‘70s-inspired trippy vibes that remain masterfully paired with deliciously hand-crafted stone-baked pizzas. And with over 160 locations across 17 states, it fits into almost any itinerary.
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE | Inside Tracks at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
A true day in the life of a musician—from songwriting and performing to professionalism in the music industry—this program covers it all. Groups will co-write and produce a song from scratch with Nashville recording artist Meghan Linsey and record producer Tyler Cain, who help groups compose a beat and write accompanying parts to their own original track.
SIGHTSEEING TOUR | Old Town Trolley Tours of Savannah
Old Town Trolley Tours® of Savannah offers engaging, fully narrated sightseeing tours highlighting the city’s charm, history, and landmarks. Guests can hop-on, hop-off at multiple stops, exploring at their own pace. Friendly conductors share legends and lore, making it a fun and informative way to experience Savannah. Don’t just visit Savannah … Relive it!
FESTIVAL/SPECIAL EVENT | Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a celebration of music, culture, and tradition. Thousands of people flock to the city every year for the Carnival season to indulge in the unique experience. With parades, costumes, beads, and jazz music filling the streets, Mardi Gras is a festival like no other!
VIEW | Grand Canyon National Park
Home to the majority of the immense Grand Canyon, Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park stuns travelers year after year. Ninety percent of the park’s visitors venture to the South Rim, where views of the Colorado River, red rock canyons and millions of years of geological history are on display.
GARDEN, CONSERVATORY OR BOTANICAL GARDEN | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan is a premier cultural destination blending world-class sculpture with rich horticultural displays. Since opening in 1995, it has welcomed over 16 million guests to explore expansive outdoor gardens, indoor conservatories, sculpture galleries, nature trails, a café, gift shop, and more—all celebrating the harmony of art, culture, and nature.
Continued on page 12...
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Buca di Beppo
Carmine’s
Golden Corral
Medieval Times
Dinner & Tournament
Anheuser-Busch
Brewery Experience
Corning Museum of Glass
The Garage at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Musical Instrument Museum
City Cruises by Hornblower
Ghost City Tours
Go Rio River Boat Tours
San Antonio
John Hall’s Alaska
Albuquerque International
Balloon Fiesta
DC Cherry Blossom Festival
Tulip Time
Virginia Arts Festival
The EDGE at Hudson Yards
Gateway Arch Tram Ride
The National Mall
Niagara Falls, Canada
Biltmore Estate
Garden of the Gods
National Park
Longwood Gardens
New York
Botanical Garden
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
...continued from page 11.
LIVE PERFORMANCE | Wicked on Broadway
Defying gravity at the Gershwin Theatre in New York City for over 20 years, Wicked , the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz … but from a different angle. For years, groups have been seeing it live— and remembering it forever.
PERFORMANCE OR ENTERTAINMENT VENUE/DISTRICT | Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is celebrating its 100th birthday through September 2026, featuring bigger shows and unforgettable moments as the next era of country music takes center stage. It’s here that groups can experience the longest running live radio show or walk in the footsteps of country music’s brightest stars by taking a backstage tour!
MUSEUM | The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. See 16 Van Gogh masterpieces, walk through an Egyptian temple from 15 BC, and more. With 17 collection areas, The Met offers unforgettable experiences, endless discoveries, and private tours for every passion.
ADVENTURE ATTRACTION | Pink Jeep Tours
Pink Jeep Tours has reinvented adventure with its unique adventure tours, industry leading guides, and cutting-edge vehicles. With locations in Sedona, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Pigeon Forge, and Branson, Pink Jeep Tours specializes in adding a little adventure to any corporate retreat or group outing!
CASINO | Gun Lake Casino Resort
Gun Lake Casino Resort recently opened a magnificent 16-story luxury hotel and spa, and the stunning Wawyé Oasis, a tropical glass atrium with live palm trees, swimming pools, and concert space featuring nationally renowned entertainers. Dining options abound with six restaurants, from gourmet fine dining to casual classics. Groups love this luxury retreat and exhilarating casino gaming destination.
AMUSEMENT PARK | Dollywood
Consistently recognized as one of the world’s best theme parks, Dollywood celebrates 40 seasons in 2025. Spanning 165 acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood offers groups over 50 rides and attractions, quality entertainment and concerts, daily demonstrations by master craftsmen, mouth-watering, Southern-style food, and more.
Continued on page 14...
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Cirque Du Soleil
New York City Ballet
Radio City Rockettes
Beale Street, Memphis
Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Mall of America®, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is North America’s largest shopping and entertainment complex. With over 500 world-class stores, endless dining, and attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium, it’s the ultimate blend of fun, fashion, and flavor all under one roof and just minutes from MSP Airport.
BEACH DESTINATION | Ludington, Michigan
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan with 28 miles of sugar-sand beaches, two lighthouses and a stunning state park, Ludington delivers as a beach town. Favorites include amenity-rich Stearns Park Beach with concessions, bathhouse, picnic area and shuffleboard courts; Ludington State Park Beach with seven miles of unspoiled, dunelined coastline; and dog-friendly Buttersville Beach.
U.S. MAIN STREET/DOWNTOWN DISTRICT | Lower Broadway, Nashville
Lower Broadway is home to Nashville’s famous Honky Tonks, delivering world-class live music daily, alongside diverse music attractions, boutique hotels, art galleries, and chefdriven restaurants. Groups can enjoy a cultural immersion, culinary delights, and vibrant entertainment, creating unforgettable shared memories in the heart of Music City.
DESTINATION
OF THE YEAR: UNITED STATES | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Named “Most Walkable City to Visit” by USA Today three years running, Philadelphia’s central location on the East Coast makes it a top pick for groups. Visitors can explore America’s most historic square mile at Independence National Historical Park, marvel at Philadelphia’s unparalleled public art, experience local flavors at Reading Terminal Market, and more.
DESTINATION OF THE YEAR: CANADA | Niagara Falls, Ontario
Overlooking the legendary Canadian Horseshoe, American and Bridal Veil waterfalls, Niagara Falls, Ontario is a four-season group destination renowned for its awe-inspiring natural wonders combined with world-class accommodation, thrilling entertainment and a burgeoning culinary scene. Four unique nearby neighborhoods, which include Clifton Hill (the “Street of Fun”), round out the experience.
DESTINATION OF THE YEAR: INTERNATIONAL | Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona blends together a vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and a lively Mediterranean spirit. From Gaudí’s masterpieces and historic Gothic Quarter to bustling markets and beachfront promenades, the city offers something for everyone. Its walkability, diverse dining, and group-friendly attractions make Barcelona an unforgettable destination for shared adventure.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
Disney Springs
Shipshewana
Stores & Shops
Simon Properties
Tanger Outlets
Daytona, FL
Outer Banks, NC
Virginia Beach, VA
Waikiki Beach, Oahu, HI
Bourbon Street, NO
Frankenmuth, MI
Savannah, GA
Winter Garden, FL Chicago, IL
Colorado Springs, CO
Nashville, TN
Washington, DC
Ottawa, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Vancouver, British Columbia
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Edinburgh, Scotland
London, England
Paris, France
Rome, Italy
EMERGING DESTINATION | El Paso, Texas
Quickly becoming one of the nation’s most exciting emerging destinations for group travelers, El Paso blends rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality into a one-of-a-kind experience. Known as the Sun City, El Paso invites groups in with its vibrant spirit, at the core of which is strong American, Indigenous, and Mexican influences. Whether through its art-filled streets, diverse culinary scene or otherwise, this destination truly shines. While the city’s legendary tacos and margaritas remain a draw, groups will also discover a blossoming food landscape that spans global flavors, from Vietnamese to Jamaican.
HONORABLE MENTION:
Adventure seekers can explore nearby wonders like White Sands, Big Bend, and Hueco Tanks, or take in the panoramic views from Scenic Drive Overlook, where both El Paso and neighboring Ciudad Juárez can be admired. History enthusiasts can walk the El Paso Mission Trail, step inside the newly opened Mexican American Cultural Center, or ride the restored El Paso Streetcar through downtown. Hidden gems such as La Casa De Azucar, the Ho Baron Sculpture Garden, and Bodega Loya add a sense of discovery to any itinerary.
Recently named the official Boot Capital of Texas, the city celebrates a craft passed down through generations. Pair this with signature events like the Plaza Classic Film Festival or Winterfest, and it’s clear why El Paso deserves a spot on the radar of every group. Affordable, friendly, and endlessly dynamic, El Paso offers groups a destination that feels both timeless and refreshingly new.
Merrimack Valley, MA Phoenix, AZ St. Louis, MO
Lake Geneva, WI
Photos
Niagara Falls Tourism, Stock Photo, Visit El Paso
SPOTLIGHT
FLY MY GROUP
- YOUR GROUP AIR PARTNER
Fly My Group is your trusted partner for group airfare, delivering unmatched service, savings, and support from start to finish. Acting as an extension of your team, we secure the best fares and contracts while providing round-the-clock assistance tailored to your group’s unique needs. Why Partner with Fly My Group?
» BEST PRICES AND BOOKING TERMS | From deeply discounted private fares to published rates, Fly My Group guarantees the best pricing and contract terms across both domestic and international airlines.
» 24/7 SUPPORT | Travel doesn’t keep office hours—and neither do we. Our dedicated team provides fast estimates and quotes at any stage of planning, while our internal emergency support team is available day and night to assist when groups are on the move.
» BETTER FARE FINDER | Meet your new best friend for savings! Once your group contract is secured, our proprietary Better Fare Finder technology continuously rechecks fares, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to save.
» FLY MY GROUP DASHBOARD | Take control with our intuitive platform. Manage bookings, generate custombranded e-ticket receipts and itineraries, and access everything you need—all in one convenient place.
» PLANNING AHEAD WITH CONFIDENCE | Whether you’re just beginning to map out travel or are ready to lock in flights, Fly My Group makes the process as easy as possible. We provide firm quotes—or estimates if airfare isn’t yet available—so you can plan with confidence for 2026 and beyond. Experience the Fly My Group difference today! Contact us at groups@flymygroup.com , call 866.374.5043 , or visit flymygroup.com
ROCKEFELLER CENTER: THE HEART OF NEW YORK CITY’S HOLIDAY SEASON
The magic of Christmas in New York truly comes alive at Rockefeller Center, where timeless traditions and festive experiences create unforgettable holiday memories. Each year, millions of visitors gather to marvel at the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a dazzling symbol of the season that lights up Midtown Manhattan. Beneath its sparkling branches, families and friends lace up their skates and glide across The Rink at Rockefeller Center, Presented by Chase Freedom—an iconic New York holiday activity that has delighted generations.
After skating, warm up with a cozy cup of coffee at Ralph’s Coffee or indulge in a seasonal sweet treat from Glace. For those in search of the perfect holiday gift, Rockefeller Center offers a curated selection of shops and boutiques. From fine jewelry at Catbird, to beloved books at McNally Jackson, to childhood wonder at FAO Schwarz, there are thoughtful treasures for everyone on your list. But the holiday magic doesn’t end there. A visit to Top of the Rock observation deck provides unparalleled 360-degree views of New York City dressed in its
holiday best. From this breathtaking vantage point, visitors can see the glittering skyline, Central Park dusted with snow, and the city’s endless twinkling lights. On select dates, guests can even capture the season’s joy with a photo alongside Santa himself, making it the perfect keepsake for families, couples, and friends alike.
Whether you’re drawn to the iconic tree, the exhilaration of skating at The Rink, the charm of worldclass shopping, or the awe-inspiring views from Top of the Rock, Rockefeller Center offers something magical for everyone. It’s more than a destination—it’s the heart of New York’s holiday season, where traditions are cherished, new memories are made, and the spirit of Christmas shines brightest.
Business and Tax Planning: WHAT TO KNOW THIS COMING SEASON
By Sarah Suydam
AAs we head into a new year, we also arrive at a new tax season. To help you prepare, we spoke with William J. Caldwell, CPA, Compass US Accountants & Advisors, and Lisa S. Curtin, CEO, Safe Travel Consultants LLC.
KEY CHANGES AND ITEMS OF NOTE FOR 2026
According to Caldwell, travel and hospitality professionals will benefit from several positive updates in 2025 that carry into the 2026 tax season. Among the most notable:
» No Tax on Tips or Overtime: A major win for tour guides, hospitality workers, and support staff. This is retroactive to January 1, 2025, with tip income being non-taxable up to $25,000. Employers should work with their payroll provider to ensure W2 and 1099s accurately reflect tip income.
» Green Energy Credits Expiring December 31, 2025: Businesses making clean-energy upgrades to fleets, resorts, or offices should finalize purchases before year-end.
» Business Interest Deductions Restored: Capped once again at 30% of EBITDA, this provides additional breathing room for companies with loans.
» Corporate Tax Rate and Pass-Through Deduction: C corporations remain taxed at just 21%, while the 20% pass-through deduction for S Corps and sole proprietors has been permanently extended.
» Higher 1099 Reporting Threshold: Independent contractor payments now require a 1099 only if they reach $2,000 or more (up from $600).
» Hospitality Pell Grants: Beginning July 2026, Pell funds will cover short-term training programs in high-demand fields. Travel and hospitality professionals are expected to benefit, particularly in programs focused on high-skill or technologydriven roles. For tour operators, this could mean better-trained staff at lower out-of-pocket costs.
» Expanded Research and Development Credits: Technology innovations, such as booking platforms, AI-driven customer tools, or operational efficiency systems, may qualify for credits, which are retroactive to 2022.
AVOIDING COSTLY MISTAKES
Caldwell finds that many travel companies default to the cash method, recording income when collected. Though he suggests that accrual accounting— recognizing revenue and expenses in the year the travel occurs—is a better fit (ex. deposits received in 2025 for a 2026 departure belong in 2026). Other pitfalls Caldwell sees travel businesses often make include overlooking home-office, meal, and marketing deductions; letting shareholder or operating agreements go stale; commingling personal and business funds; and incorrectly categorizing staff either as an employee or independent contractor.
“Schedule an end-of-year planning session with your accountant in November so changes happen before the books close,” he advised. “And make sure tax returns are filed in a timely window, in addition to resolving or avoiding any outstanding tax notices.”
Curtin explains that while succession planning prepares for an eventual handoff, business continuity planning (BCP) keeps you operating when the unexpected hits.
“Ensure your business is ready for any challenge with a solid continuity plan,” Curtin said. “What if systems fail during peak booking, a flood closes your office, a key seller departs, or the owner is incapacitated?”
BCPs typically include items like listing out critical functions, owners, and how each continues under stress. They also include scenario planning for loss of key staff, physical office damage, system outages or data breaches, and global disruptions. It’s wise to include vendor and client contact info, backup access to booking and payment systems, simple communication templates, and a remotework playbook. Remember to test it annually and after major changes.
Lynn Hoogerhyde
Edited by Sarah Suydam
LLynn Hoogerhyde, Team Lead Sales and Agency Management, Flix North America, Inc., got their start in travel by managing bus terminal operations under an independent contractor and loved the environment and challenge. From there, they took an area manager role with Greyhound before migrating to a Flix team after they acquired the company in 2021. Groups Today caught up with Hoogerhyde to get their perspective on where the industry is headed and more.
What are the most interesting industry changes you’ve experienced?
The industry began to develop online low-cost operators in the early 2000s with businesses like Spirit Airlines and Megabus becoming very popular. This created competitiveness and drive to run a lean business model that had us on our toes. Customers had many options to travel on a budget across the nation, and even into Canada and Mexico. A lot of this came crashing down with COVID-19 halting crossborder travel and caused people to be leery of public transportation—even after restrictions had been lifted. Many jobs were lost, and some travel companies went out of business, but there were positive outcomes, too.
The rise of online services was accelerated, allowing for e-ticketing, check-in and real time travel updates all to your phone. It took years for ridership to return to pre-pandemic levels, but the ripple effects of this time can still be felt. Flix is another extension of the rise in technology centered travel, allowing customers the flexibility to change their ticket dates or check the status of their bus right in the app.
What opportunities do you see for the industry?
Bus travel has come a long way, now offering things like on-board Wi-Fi and management of your own travel in the app. Services have become more
reliable, and the network continues to expand. I believe the opportunity for bus travel is both in the consumer’s image of what bus travel looks like and in local governments embracing connectivity for their constituency. The problem with transit advocacy is it tends to be left to the 20% of the population that actually utilizes the services, even though it helps everyone. Utilizing mass transit keeps the roads less congested with single vehicles and saves parking spaces. Mass transit has a lower carbon footprint and helps keep city air cleaner for everyone. The industry has so much room to grow, if the American population will embrace its benefit for all.
What are some of your proudest moments in your career thus far?
My proudest moments in my career all come from traveler sentiment. When people hear what I do, they tend to tell me their story of traveling on the bus. So many people have had amazing experiences or deep-rooted connections to Greyhound. I’ve talked with friends about their experiences as young people traveling to and from college; I’ve met ticket agents who are second and third generation working in the bus industry; I’ve interviewed a reseller whose late dad was a bus driver and she still carried a picture of him in his uniform. The bus has touched so many people’s lives, and it always touches my heart to hear these stories.
