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BOOKS COME TO LIFE Literary tourism blurs the lines of fiction and reality

YOUR NEW SECRET WEAPON Virtual reality can help advisors inspire, upsell and win new clients FROM STADIUMS TO STAGES On Location brings fans closer to the action WOULD YOU GO? This advisor visited all seven continents

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Where Nature & Comfort Meet

Pura Vida ALL INCLUDED

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ZONI BEACH, CULEBRA , PUERTO RICO

J O Y A S AB U ND ANT A S OU R S K I E S A RE B L U E .

Boricua [boh-ree-kwah] is more than a word to identify a person f rom Puerto Rico.

It’s a way of life that finds joy and beauty in the unexpected. So let yourself wander our Island and discover amazing places around every corner. Book your trip today, visit DiscoverPuertoRico.com/LiveBoricua.

NO PASSPORT REQUIRED FOR U.S. CITIZENS

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>> Departments 10. PRESIDENT’S NOTE

24. HOW I CARRY ON

84. DESTINATION NEXT

14. EDITOR’S NOTE

26. TAKING OFF

86. YESTERDAY’S NEWS

16. TRUE NORTH

28. THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Insights from John Ische, president of Trisept Solutions.

A big dream can come with risks, but it’s worth it to see that dream become your reality.

This quarter’s most important news for advisors.

20. CONVERSATIONS

We asked: What are you manifesting for 2026?

This mother-and-son team works to inspire inclusion around the world.

Caitlin Fogle shares why paying it forward and helping new advisors keeps our industry strong.

Learn how Mr. Tai’s quiet revolution is preserving the past and protecting the future.

30. TECH TO KNOW

Virtual reality is becoming a powerful tool for travel advisors to inspire, upsell and win new clients.

22. BY THE WAY (A PSA)

Here’s what U.S. travelers need to know about Europe’s new entry requirements.

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This iconic city encourages visitors to embrace their playful side.

A closer look at the newest feature on VAX VacationAccess.

88. ASK MAXWELL

Our beloved flippered friend answers your VAX questions.

89. THE COMPASS WORD SEARCH Is your bucket list destination on the list?

90. ONE FOR THE ROAD

Wisdom to take with you till next time.

82. BREAKOUT SESSION

Travel professionals share what their ultimate no-limits vacation would be if money were no object.

2025

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>> Features 32. BRINGING BUCKET LIST TRIPS TO LIFE

Veteran travel pros share the partnerships, quick pivots and personal touches that turned their clients’ dreams into reality.

36. LUXURY REIMAGINED: HOW TO SELL THE TOP BRANDS IN TRAVEL These brands, tips and commission strategies can help you thrive in the competitive luxury market.

44. FROM STADIUMS TO STAGES: ON LOCATION REDEFINES LIVE EVENT TRAVEL

Here’s how the brand is bringing fans closer to the action through big-name partnerships and exclusive packages.

66. WOULD YOU GO?

50. TURNING TRAVEL INTO CREATIVE FUEL

One innocuous question led this travel advisor to step foot on all seven continents in a single calendar year.

Multicultural experiences don’t just teach us about the world — they permanently rewire how artists see, create and imagine.

72. LITERARY TOURISM BRINGS BOOKS TO LIFE

54. THE ART OF HANDLING CANCELED TRIPS

Readers are turning pages into vacations, and these destinations are at the top of their lists.

Advisors can use these strategies to navigate last-minute changes, safeguard commissions and keep clients coming back.

60. HOW AI CAN SUPERCHARGE YOUR BUSINESS (WITHOUT TURNING YOU INTO A ROBOT)

WINTER 2025

BOOKS COME TO LIFE

Why the advisors who embrace AI now will thrive in an industry that still runs on human connection.

Literary tourism blurs the lines of fiction and reality

YOUR NEW SECRET WEAPON Virtual reality can help advisors inspire, upsell and win new clients FROM STADIUMS TO STAGES On Location brings fans closer to the action WOULD YOU GO? This advisor visited all seven continents

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MASTHEAD

President and Publisher John Ische Editorial Editor in Chief – Sarah Kneisler Managing Editor – Codie Liermann Senior Editor – Jenna Buege Contributing Writers – Samantha Anderson, Nicole Edenedo, Rossilynne Skena Culgan, Joni Sweet Advertising

Marketing Operations

External Account Managers – Carey Driscoll, Pam Lowe, Sue Ulickey

Director, Operations and Marketing – Sarah Kneisler Advertising Product Specialist – Kati Kohler Advertising Coordinators – Rowanna Bailey, Hannah Ulickey Manager, Digital Marketing – Ashley Perego Advertising Producers – Joseph Enslin, Kyle Krause

Published by Firebrand Media A division of Times Media Group

PUBLISHER Steve T. Strickbine

DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING Steve Zepezauer

VICE PRESIDENT PUBLISHING & OPERATIONS Nadine Johnson

GROUP EDITOR Justine Amodeo

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Nick Oliveri

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CREATIVE & MARKETING DIRECTOR Tracy Powell PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Leydecker

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PRESIDENT’S NOTE

This past December 9th was my 40th work anniversary, and it will be my final anniversary as I have decided to retire.

It’s been a privilege to lead Trisept Solutions for 40 years, and I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting on my story.

After a while, we did some cool stuff at Trisept Solutions, and one of those things was launching the first version of Synapse in November of 1986. We used to work some crazy long hours, and I remember one Saturday afternoon, we were sitting around as a team thinking about what we could build that would be of value to the business with the travel and technology expertise we had available to us. We were dreaming big and asking ourselves what’s the wildest thing we could achieve.

That Saturday afternoon, we drew a picture on the whiteboard of what we came up with. We mapped out a technology vision of how we could build a system to allow advisors to be successful. We wanted to enable them to service their customers, have marketing resources, create reservations and consume education, all in one place.

At that time, everything was done by making a phone call, but we knew technology would continue to advance and that there would be a point in time when advisors could use their own computers to conduct business. So we actually drew out a picture and listed everything we’d need to have to help make this happen, from supplier connections to credit card transactions, and everything in between. It was truly a dream at that point, and we set the bar incredibly high.

Big dreams can turn into reality, and it’s been an honor for me to work with the team of people at Trisept who have been able to build platforms out of that vision from that Saturday afternoon.

We were lucky enough to have the right combination of a great idea, talented people to execute it, the financial support, the technical expertise and the relationships to make it all come together. Because you can’t make a dream a reality without these components, along with persistence, dedication and collaboration.

People need to work together to bring things to life.

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John Ische PRESIDENT, TRISEPT SOLUTIONS

John’s industry tenure spans more than three decades.

When I look back over the last 40 years, I have a lot of pride in and a deep gratitude for the people who have made this happen. This includes everyone at Trisept and also all of the travel advisors, supplier partners, technology providers – everyone who has been on this journey with us to be the leader in the space.

I still beam when we win the Best Travel Technology Provider category at the Readers Choice Awards year after year.

Forty years ago, we were a small little tour operator in Milwaukee. We weren’t this big powerhouse that had deep pockets. We were scrappy and diligent and had the right combination of vision, commitment, tech expertise and partnerships. You can’t do it all yourself, and I was lucky to be blessed with all this throughout in my career. We pioneered a lot of things in the travel technology world, and it was always about enabling travel advisor success. The fact that we’ve more than accomplished this is incredibly special.

That picture on the whiteboard stayed in place for five years after it was created on that Saturday afternoon. We not only fulfilled the vision, but we continued to innovate throughout the years, and it’s made my 40-year career a phenomenal one.

With immense gratitude, John

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Our award-winning itineraries are rather spectacular, yet we’ve managed to sprinkle in even more wonder and awe into our immersive sailings. Sailors can tantalize their taste buds on our Eat & Drink Festival sailings that celebrate all things culinary or indulge on our iconic Celebration Voyages. These sailings include all the luxury Sailors have come to love on Virgin Voyages with a thematic twist to further elevate their experience.

LE ARN MORE AT FIRSTMATES.COM

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LUXURY THEY’VE COME TO LOVE, A THEME TO ESCORT THEM INTO THE UNKNOWN

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Two of my favorite departments in this magazine are How I Carry On and Taking Off. It’s where we highlight the different people who give this industry a pulse.

We get to share their unique stories.

We hear about the barriers they’ve busted through, the setbacks that have made them stronger and the meaningful impact they’re leaving on the industry.

A lot of these success stories start with a dream; sometimes it’s in the form of an idea that sparks inside of them, and other times it’s an urge for a much-needed pivot from something that no longer suits them. But each of them has a dream and builds it into a reality — and that’s not easy.

This issue’s theme is Dream Big, and we have several inspiring stories on the docket for you. You’ll hear from a new face in the industry who recently traversed all seven continents in one year and how a handful of travel advisors brought their clients’ dream bucket list adventures to life.

Other topics include literary tourism, tips for

Codie Liermann MANAGING EDITOR

Codie aims to deliver valuable content to travel advisors.

supercharging your business with AI and advice for handling canceled vacations with care. We also ask travel advisors what they’re manifesting for 2026 and share insights on a powerful tool that could be your new secret weapon.

What’s your dream for this year? Do you have an idea for your business you’ve been pondering? Is there a shift you’ve been wanting to make? Maybe it’s a far-off destination you’re thinking of checking off your bucket list.

Whatever it is, make sure to dream big. A big dream can come with risks, might feel scary and certainly includes hard work, but it’s worth it to see that dream become your reality.

A big dream can come with risks, might feel scary and certainly includes hard work, but it’s worth it to see that dream become your reality.

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IN THIS ISSUE

CONTRIBUTORS

SAMANTHA ANDERSON Samantha Anderson is the editorial intern for VAX VacationAccess. When she’s not on the soccer field or curled up with some coffee reading the latest book, she likes to experiment with fun recipes in the kitchen and indulge in a healthy dose of reality TV. Samantha is new to the industry, though a strong zest for travel has her constantly researching unique destinations to inspire her next great adventure.

NICOLE EDENEDO Nicole Edenedo is a travel journalist, primarily covering the tour operator and river cruise industries. She also covers sports tourism, rail travel and winter destinations. Nicole was most recently a senior editor for Travel Weekly.

She also contributes to AFAR, Cruise Critic, ASTA Magazine and Apartment Therapy.

JENNA BUEGE Senior editor for VAX VacationAccess and world explorer, Jenna Buege loves writing about all things travel. When she’s not busy creating content, she spends her time exploring the great outdoors, cuddling with her two black cats and researching her next big (sometimes strange) adventure.

JONI SWEET Joni Sweet is a freelance writer who is driven by adventure. Her journalistic pursuits have taken her around the globe — rafting down the Ganges, hiking the rainforests of Borneo, swimming with whale sharks in Mexico and hot air ballooning over Cappadocia. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, Forbes, TIME, Travel Weekly and many other publications.

ROSSILYNNE SKENA CULGAN Rossilynne Skena Culgan is a journalist and author whose writing can be found in Time Out New York, Saveur Magazine, Atlas Obscura, Thrillist, Google Arts & Culture, and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. She’s the author of travel guidebooks “Secret New York City: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure” and “100 Things to Do in Pittsburgh Before You Die.” A Pittsburgh native, she now lives in New York City. No matter where she travels, she’s always keeping her eyes peeled for vintage signage.

Thank you to our talented writers for your creativity, which helps bring The Compass to life each issue.

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TRUE NORTH

Stay the course on these big issues.

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AMERICAN CRUISE LINES OFFERS ALL-DOMESTIC GREAT LAKES SAILINGS

Milwaukee, WI, is one of the cities that will be featured during American Cruise Lines’ domestic Great Lakes sailings.

In response to guest demand, American Cruise Lines, the largest river cruise line in the U.S., is launching three new all-domestic Great Lakes sailings in 2026. The itineraries, which range from nine to 14 days in length, will run from May through August and will take place aboard American Patriot, the brand’s newest vessel. “Guests have long asked for our style of cruising on the Great Lakes,” said Charles B. Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines. “We are now proud to offer these cruises as only American can, aboard a new small ship sailing 100% domestically.” Thanks to the fresh sailings, cruise-goers can now explore the wonders of Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron without ever stepping foot across the Canadian border. As for where they’ll go, underrated domestic cities like Syracuse, NY; Cleveland, OH; and Milwaukee, WI all play starring roles in the itineraries.

Travel to Sweden Prescribed as Medicine

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Visit Sweden says Sweden is the first country to be a prescription.

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Sweden is leaning into its outdoorsy reputation following the results of an international survey from YouGov that found two out of three respondents would spend more time in nature if it were prescribed by a doctor. Famous for its saunas, cold plunges and incredible landscapes, the country is now showcasing what it calls “The Swedish Prescription,” Visit Sweden’s latest marketing campaign, where the group positions the destination as the world’s first country to which travel can be prescribed by a doctor. In a statement shared by Visit Sweden, Stacy Beller Stryer, associate marketing director at ParkRXAmerica, said the charity has made great strides in making a prescription for nature “a more integral part of public health — but there is much more to be done. I welcome Sweden’s initiative and hope it will help break down institutional and organisational barriers, ultimately benefiting all patients.”

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NEW LUXURY NIGHT BUS SERVICE IN EUROPE Buses have gotten a luxurious makeover thanks to Swiss transportation company Twiliner, which recently launched a new night bus service it says is more akin to flying in business class versus the typical coach bus experience. Outfitted with 21 seats, the double-decker bus boasts free Wi-Fi, an onboard bar, a bathroom, changing room and luggage storage space with enough room for each passenger to bring one large suitcase and one carry-on free of charge. Each seat also includes a table, USB chargers and a reading light in addition to being able to fully recline into a lie-flat bed.

“We want to make travelling beautiful again,” said Twiliner. “Instead of mass processing, cramped conditions, stress and loss of time, our focus is on stylish, quiet and safe travel.”

The chairs aboard Twiliner’s luxury night bus convert into lie-flat beds.

Travelers can visit the geographic North Pole aboard Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot.

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VISIT THE GEOGRAPHIC NORTH POLE WITH PONANT

Porto is widely considered the Wine Capital of Portugal.

DELTA OFFERING DIRECT FLIGHTS TO PORTUGAL’S WINE CAPITAL Oenophiles rejoice, popular U.S. air carrier Delta Air Lines is launching a direct flight to Porto, Portugal, just in time for summer. Set to take off beginning May 21, 2026, travelers departing from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport can enjoy uninterrupted service between the two destinations aboard a Boeing 767-300 aircraft with the airline’s Delta One business class and Delta Premium Select premium economy in addition to classic Delta Main seating (economy). The new route comes just after the brand announced plans to launch service to Sardinia, Italy, and Malta in 2026. “Delta’s new nonstop service from JFK to Porto is part of seven new European routes launching next summer, giving customers even more opportunities to experience Europe and enjoy our award-winning service and premium onboard experience,” said Paul Baldoni, senior vice president of network planning for Delta. “These additions expand choice for our customers and reinforce JFK’s role as a leading global gateway.”

Luxury cruise line Ponant has made it easier to visit the geographic North Pole with its new, 12-night journey aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the company’s ice-breaking ship purposely designed for short expedition cruises. Departing from Longyearbyen in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, the itinerary will travel to 90-degrees North, one of Earth’s most remote destinations renowned for its permanently icy waters and summer Midnight Sun. “Unique among polar expeditions, this journey to the Geographic North Pole offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Arctic as few ever have,” said Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of Ponant Explorations Group, Americas.

“With Le Commandant Charcot, we’ve created a ship that not only pushes the boundaries of polar navigation, but also serves as a platform for scientific research, environmental stewardship and cultural exchange.”

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BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY REOPENS AFTER HURRICANE HELENE

The recently reopened stretch of road leads to the entrance of North Carolina’s Mount Mitchell State Park.

There are new Clear eGates at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

CLEAR LAUNCHES NEW EGATES

G Adventures Upscales Tour Offerings

South Africa is one of the destinations featured in G Adventures’ new Signature Collection itineraries.

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Beginning in 2027, vacationers traveling with G Adventures — a Canadian-based tour operator offering sustainable, communityminded tours around the world — will have a selection of new, luxurious options to choose from thanks to the company’s recent expansion of its five-star Signature Collection. Created in tandem with National Geographic Expeditions, the fresh itineraries will operate in South Africa, Vietnam, Japan, Central Asia, Peru and Jordan and will focus on quality, community connections and expertise. “(The itineraries are) a revolutionary product in the luxury travel space,” said Nancy Schumacher, senior vice president and general manager of National Geographic Expeditions and Adventures by Disney. “For us, luxury could mean connecting with local people, sitting down and having a conversation over a meal with a family, where they talk about exactly what it’s like to live in that country. For us, that is the luxury of travel.”

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A 26-mile-long stretch of the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway reopened in late 2025, more than a year after Hurricane Helene devastated Asheville, NC, and the surrounding area in the fall of 2024. According to the National Park Service (NPS), the recently reopened section begins in Asheville at milepost 382 and runs to Ridge Junction Overlook at milepost 355.3 at the entrance of Mount Mitchell State Park. “(The opening) marks the completion of an initial round of recovery projects underway to repair landslides that occurred on the Parkway as a result of Hurricane Helene,” said the NPS. “The park is prioritizing the restoration of road access through a phased system, and additional projects are beginning in 45 remaining locations.”

Biometric security company Clear is hoping to modernize and streamline airport security screenings with its new eGates, checkpoints equipped with technology to scan and match passengers’ faces with their IDs and boarding passes in a matter of seconds. While the gates are only featured at a handful of airports across the country so far — including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and SeattleTacoma International Airport — the company hopes to expand the tech before the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to the U.S. in June. “The U.S. should be leading on security, hospitality, and the travel experience,” said Caryn Seidman Becker, CEO of Clear. “This partnership with TSA is a powerful example of how public and private sectors can work together to enhance security and improve the aviation ecosystem ... CLEAR’s secure identity platform will help unlock a better, safer, and more frictionless experience for all travelers.”

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2026_The

Contact your travel advisor, call 1.888.928.0237 or visit amawaterways.com today.

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CONVERSATIONS

WE ASKED: WHAT ARE YOU MANIFESTING FOR 2026?

Michael Tice

Judy Booker

WEBSITE ticeupyourlifevacations.com

WEBSITE judybooker.inteletravel.com

TRAVEL ADVISOR AT BOOKER ELITE TRAVEL, LLC

OWNER OF TICE UP YOUR LIFE VACATIONS

FACEBOOK facebook.com/ticeupyourlifevacations

FACEBOOK facebook.com/elitetravelqueen

“As I look ahead to 2026, I am manifesting growth, abundance and unforgettable journeys for both myself and my clients. This year, I see my agency thriving — not only through creating dream vacations, but also by expanding our team with seasoned travel professionals who share the same passion for service and excellence. Together, we will grow, support one another and build a trusted name that clients recognize and return to. I see my business flourishing with referrals, repeat clients and the joy of knowing we’ve made lasting memories possible. I welcome prosperity, collaboration and inspiration into my career, and I believe 2026 will be the year our agency not only grows stronger and gives back more to our agents but also empowers every agent to build their own legacy.”

“I’m manifesting a bold, visionary role as a travel advisor in 2026 — one that blends intuition, innovation and deep cultural insight. I want to go beyond booking trips and craft soul-stirring experiences. I want to continue to help clients travel with purpose, not just passport stamps.

I’d love to tap into storyteller and influencer mode and continue building a brand — maybe through a blog, podcast or YouTube channel — sharing travel wisdom, destination secrets and client success stories. I want my voice to inspire wanderlust and mindful movement. More importantly, I’m manifesting a career that’s not just about travel, but about transformation, connection and impact. As an advisor, I realize that I am the bridge between travelers and authentic, respectful cultural exchange.”

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Jared Benoff

CEO OF VACATIONEEZE WEBSITE vacationeeze.com INSTAGRAM instagram.com/vacationeeze

“In 2026, I’m manifesting the continued rise of curated group travel. I hope that destination weddings, food and shared cultural experiences are less about transactions and more about storytelling and collective experiences.

When we travel together, we learn together, we experience together and we grow together. Travel has a unique way of bridging cultures and differences and showing that we’re all more alike than different. I’ve found that travelers are craving connection, and the industry has an opportunity to deliver that at scale.”

Natalia Yepes

OWNER/FOUNDER OF ADVENTURESQUE TRAVEL BOUTIQUE WEBSITE adventuresquetravel.com INSTAGRAM instagram.com/adventuresquetb

“For 2026, I am manifesting more awareness in our travel industry on sustainability, not just for the environment but local cultures as well. I would like travelers to continue learning how our travels affect local economies and how we can help maintain and respect the cultures and traditions of the places we visit.”

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BY THE WAY (A PSA)

WHAT AMERICAN TRAVELERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EUROPE’S NEW ENTRY REQUIREMENTS EES and ETIAS are modernizing the border procedures for U.S. travelers at many beloved European destinations.

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After its full rollout in 2026, travelers visiting Europe can check into the EES self-serve kiosks in airports, seaports and other land crossings.

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UNDERSTANDING THE ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES) The EES, or Entry/Exit System, is a process designed to digitally record the short-stay arrivals and departures of non-EU travelers into 29 European countries. This includes all Schengen member states and associated nations like Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

According to the EES homepage, the digitized process aims to prevent overstays, the use of fake identities and illegal crossborder movement by requiring visitors to provide biometric data like fingerprints and facial photographs. Additionally, the system

will expedite the arrival process as it gradually replaces physical passport stamps.

Unlike the first go-round at rolling out the EES — originally announced in 2023 with plans to debut the following year — the sixmonth phased introduction kicked off on October 12, 2025. Each participating country determines its own implementation timeline and locations, with airports, seaports and land crossings slowly introducing the self-serve kiosks through the anticipated completion date in April 2026.

Who Is Exempt?

Most American travelers will need to provide

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urope, with its ancient attractions, unique regional eats and vibrant cultures, is a fan-favorite vacation spot for American travelers, enticing millions of them across the pond each year.

Interest in these countries continues to surge, especially as industry trends evolve and draw attention to new, underrated places to explore.

For these intrepid globetrotters with their sights set on European destinations, two systems from the European Commission are changing the way travelers proceed through the border and the documentation they need to do so. Here’s what you need to know about the EES and ETIAS rollouts.

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Though most U.S. travelers must use the EES and ETIAS, exemptions exist for certain groups, including minors.

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their information to the EES, though there are some exceptions. Children under the age of 12 do not need to provide fingerprints, but a facial photograph is still required upon their first entry. Holders of long-stay visas and non-EU nationals traveling for research, voluntary service or academic projects are also exempt.

Short Stay Parameters The system approves travel for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Registration Process To add traveler data to the EES, visitors only need to scan their passports at the border.

From there, a profile is created using the provided fingerprint and facial photograph.

The initial visit to participating countries may take a few extra minutes to create the profile, but subsequent arrivals should prove to be much more seamless and efficient.

ETIAS REQUIREMENTS AT A GLANCE Working alongside the EES, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is an entry requirement for visaexempt nationals. The program is anticipated to launch in Q4 of 2026, requiring travelers to

complete a security check application and pay a fee to enter EU countries.

Who Needs It? It is mandatory for citizens of the U.S., Australia, New Zealand and Canada if they are visiting any of the 30 participating countries (the same as the EES, plus Cyprus) for business, tourism, medical or transit purposes.

Every traveler from the required countries must enroll in the ETIAS, including infants, children and teenagers. Parents or a legal guardian are responsible for submitting the application on behalf of minors.

or adults over 70 years are exempt from the fee, though they still need to apply. Most applications are processed within minutes, but occasionally, additional documents may be required that extend the evaluation period.

Using Your Authorization Approved ETIAS authorization is linked to the travel document submitted during application. Travelers simply present their passports at the border, where the authorization will be verified electronically.

Validity Period The approved application is good for three years or until a traveler’s passport expires — whichever comes first. Visitors cleared through the ETIAS are permitted multiple short stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Application Process The ETIAS process is straightforward.

Travelers can apply online at etias.org/apply or download the mobile app. Both methods require valid travel documentation, such as a passport, and a payment method for the (approximately) $23 fee. Children under 18

Travelers will need to submit an ETIAS application to visit a number of European destinations beginning in Q4 of 2026.

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HOW I CARRY ON

MEET TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER HOUSTON VANDERGRIFF

Mother-and-son team Houston and Katie Vandergriff are the creators of Downs & Towns, which combines travel, photography and advocacy to inspire inclusion around the world.

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Houston, with his trusty Nikon camera, works to capture the historic city of Lisbon, Portugal, from atop the city arch at the waterfront.

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PHOTOS BY KATIE VANDERGRIFF

Houston works to capture the magic as dozens of balloons rise at sunrise over the ancient city of Cappadocia, Turkey.

n award-winning travel photographer, Nikon Creator and global advocate, Houston Vandergriff chooses to share the world’s beauty through photographs, alongside his mother, Katie Vandergriff, who is also his travel companion, collaborator and biggest supporter. Together, this mother-andson duo inspires people to see life through a more inclusive lens. And it all started with a disposable camera.

“Because Houston has Down syndrome, speech is often a challenge,” Katie said. “We gave him disposable film cameras so he could ‘show’ what he wanted to share about his world. Those early snapshots became his way of saying, ‘This is me.’ ” Houston’s love for photography has only grown over the years. While earning his Photography Certificate through the University of Tennessee’s Professional vaxvacationaccess.com/the-compass

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The rain was moving in around Roan Mountain State Park in Tennessee, but the clouds began to rise just as the sun set. This area is part of the Appalachian Trail near the Tennessee/North Carolina state border.

HOUSTON VANDERGRIFF

Programs, one of his teachers urged him to embrace what makes his art unique, and this encouragement sparked the idea of Downs & Towns, a platform built around art, adventure and advocacy.

“From that day forward, Houston’s camera became more than a tool. It became his voice and his passport to the world,” Katie said.

A POWERFUL VISION Traveling isn’t always a seamless event; it can come with its fair share of challenges, such as travel delays, lost luggage and language barriers. Like all travelers, Katie and Houston face certain setbacks when they travel, but Katie said Houston chooses to approach each situation, good or bad, “with patience, humor, and an open heart.”

The differences among people we encounter on trips don’t have to be barriers. In fact, these things can help us connect, and Houston reminds people of this through his photography. Katie and Houston believe that inclusion makes the world stronger, and Houston’s images share

a message of belonging.

“His goal is to help others see that when we celebrate diversity, we don’t just make art, we make change. Houston’s vision is simple, yet powerful: make the world a better place by showing its beauty,” Katie said. “If there’s one thing we want people to know, it’s that every life has value. Wherever you go in the world, smiles speak the same language.”

A VISIT TO THE MOON Houston has done a lot of traveling throughout the years. He has visited all 95 counties in Tennessee, his home state. He’s also traveled to all 50 states, seven Canadian provinces and 30 countries.

He’s created tons of moments along the way, but there’s one special travel memory that stands out above the rest, and that’s when he sent his sister to the Moon. He took a photo of his sister on the Croatian coastline, and little did he know that photo would do a bit of traveling on its own.

“That image was chosen to go to the Moon as part of the MoonMars Museum project

— a permanent art archive that landed on the lunar surface in March 2025. We got to watch the rocket launch in Cape Canaveral,” Katie said.

“The fact that an image captured by an artist with Down syndrome will be preserved on the Moon feels symbolic of Houston’s journey. What began as a way to communicate has become a story that’s literally out of this world.”

WHAT’S IN HOUSTON AND KATIE’S CARRY-ONS? Katie and Houston each pack a carry-on and a backpack when they travel.

“Houston always packs several Nikon cameras, a variety of lenses, multiple memory cards, extra batteries, a travel journal, and snacks. Houston never leaves home without at least 2 WWE action figures for good luck. Houston’s CPAP has been on five continents.”

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TAKING OFF

ANSWERING THE SILLY QUESTIONS Caitlin Fogle shares why paying it forward and helping new advisors helps keep our industry strong.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAITLIN FOGLE

ne of the great things about being a travel advisor is the flexible nature of the job. And, after giving birth to her third child, Caitlin Fogle shared that flexibility, paired with her enthusiasm for travel, is what solidified her decision to make the move from 10 years of social work to becoming a new member of the travel industry in 2021.

Quite the pivot, Fogle explained that she fell into the new role somewhat organically after her travel agent reached out looking for extra help around the office. Fogle rose to the occasion, and, after spending some time working at the agency part-time, began building a clientele of her own and picturing a dedicated career as a travel advisor — a dream she’s since fulfilled after officially going full-time in 2023.

In addition to the appeal of the freedom that came with becoming an independent contractor, Fogle said she felt inspired to take the professional leap after noting travel would allow her to continue to foster one of her favorite skillsets associated with being a social worker: the ability to help others. “(I’ve) always enjoyed helping others,” said Fogle. “I definitely have a lot of joy in helping people with picking the right destination and curating the perfect trip for them. And sharing that passion for travel.”

Now, with several years of experience under her belt, Fogle continues to play a supporting role, both for her clients and fellow advisors. “Coming into the industry, I felt like there were a lot of people that weren’t willing to help new people,” she said. “Maybe because they’re too busy or they have a book of business, so they’re not answering your silly questions. I, as someone who wants to help people, often have new advisors ask me the silly questions, and I take the time to explain them because

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everyone has to start somewhere, and there are enough clients to go around.”

Instead of falling victim to the scarcity mindset that can be so tempting to buy into, Fogle explained she thinks the industry is strongest when it works together — and that means letting newbies in on all the juicy trade secrets. “I think paying it forward and helping new people in the industry is worth the time and effort to keep our industry strong,” she said. “And I would say, when I came into the industry, it was hard to develop those relationships with people who are busy. So, my advice for the community is to work together and have more conversations about struggles or how we can improve things as an industry as a whole versus staying quiet, working independently and not sharing resources.”

For Fogle, building that sense of community with her peers and coming together to share resources has been paramount to her success. “Sometimes you feel like you’re kind of on a lonely island, especially when you’re an independent,” she said. “You’re not living in a big city where a lot of these vendors are coming, so going to shows is important, creating the relationships, taking down people’s information from webinars, all of that.”

Fogle went on to share that she recently connected with two people from her small town of Greenville, South Carolina, while at a conference in the Dominican Republic.

“Since then, we’ve texted, we’ve tried to get together, we’re definitely from three different businesses, but we’re like, ‘oh, tell me how you do this,’ ‘do you have a contact for this?’ Just working together and helping each other I think is such a bright light.”

Further reflecting on these budding friendships, Fogle shared there’s so much we can learn from others, even when people have varying levels of experience. “One girl’s been in the industry for six months; the other lady has been in the industry for 15 years,” she said. “It’s fun to be like, OK, we have a senior person; we have me as a middle person, and we have a newbie and just kind of talk about how different business models and how everything works.”

“I think as a travel advisor, we don’t know

everything,” said Fogle. “So, tapping into your resources and your contacts is the best way to educate yourself. … Sometimes I feel like I’m still floundering because there’s different ways to book hotels; there’s so many different suppliers; it can be overwhelming. But just take it a little bit at a time and organize yourself. Set yourself up for success … all of those things will pay off in the long run.”

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THE RIGHT DIRECTION

SOLAR BOATS ARE MAKING WAVES IN BANGKOK’S CANALS Learn how Mr. Tai’s quiet revolution is preserving the past and protecting the future.

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fter three decades of sailing in the open waters, finding peace in the gently lapping waves, one man was in search of a way to bring this pocket of serenity back to the bustling Bangkok canals. With a little financial investment into his dream, some good ‘ol elbow grease and a desire to protect the surrounding environment, here’s how Mr. Tai is changing the tour landscape in Thailand, one solar-powered boat at a time.

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TURNING DREAMS INTO A REALITY Mr. Tai’s business endeavor began in 2021, when he was guided by two main goals: reduce pollution in Thailand’s waterways through sustainable alternatives and preserve the vintage water taxi.

The two vessels Mr. Tai owns and operates for his tours today are a nod to an earlier era in the region’s history, when the boats served as the backbone of transportation. Their low and narrow design made them ideal to easily

navigate canals and rivers, though the large engines — typically from a car or tractor — were a standout feature for their speed.

The vintage boats were innovative for a time, until the high-powered motors began to more noticeably contribute to air, water and noise pollution in Bangkok’s waterways. Each vessel is fueled by gas or diesel, and aside from their loud rumblings, release emissions and exhaust fumes into the surrounding atmosphere disrupting travelers,

CANDY KRAJANGSRI COURTESY OF TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND

An aerial view of the solar boats in Bangkok

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BOTTOM LEFT: CANDY KRAJANGSRI COURTESY OF TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND; BOTTOM RIGHT: COURTESY OF EF ULTIMATE BREAK TOP RIGHT: ALEKSANDR SIMONOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

businesses and residents along the water.

In an effort to mitigate this harmful component of the boat while also preserving a coveted piece of Thailand’s history, Mr. Tai converted his two water taxis to run completely on solar power. Now, five years after his inaugural launch, other independent tour operators are in on the sustainable movement, bridging the gap between eco-friendly transportation and visits to some of Bangkok’s top attractions along the Chao Phraya River.

WORKING TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE BANGKOK Mr. Tai’s simple mission of promoting a healthier Bangkok quickly blossomed into a much bigger initiative, largely due to his recent partnership with Tourism Cares, a U.S.-based organization promoting travel for destination stewardship.

During the brand’s annual Meaningful Travel FAM trip in March 2024, Tourism Cares leaders learned of Mr. Tai’s work through Globe Holiday’s “green travel day,” where participants toured the city using public or electric transportation options.

“The electric boats stand out because they are a great example of how sustainable travel can be a win-win-win,” said John Sutherland, senior director of community impact at Tourism Cares and a visitor on Mr. Tai’s boat. “For the environment, they are lower impact/lower carbon footprint. For

Wat Kalayanamit is a prominent Buddhist temple along the Chao Phraya River, an attraction visitors can see on Mr. Tai’s tour.

the owners, they benefit from the increased business of conscious travelers. And, perhaps most importantly for the traveler, they are quieter and less polluting, which makes the ride itself much more pleasant.”

Mr. Tai’s tour left a lasting impression on the Tourism Cares visitors, as his business is now featured on the brand’s Meaningful Travel Map. The tool, created for travelers and advisors, highlights community-led, sustainable operations around the globe, and Mr. Tai’s inclusion in it puts him one step closer to sharing his big dreams with the world.

“What I enjoy most with the electric boats is the quiet; it’s like the tranquility of sailing,” said Mr. Tai in a 2024 article with EF Ultimate Break. “Being out on the water with no engine allows me to appreciate the surroundings deeply, and I want others to experience it, too.”

“The Thai people are so friendly and welcoming, and the electric boat operators are no different,” added Sutherland. “They are proud of their impact, proud of their city, and happy to connect with travelers around the world. It’s a joy to explore the city with them and hear their stories.”

Left: Travelers on an electric boat ride sail past the Wat Paknam Pasrichareon statue, one of Bangkok’s beloved attractions and a highlight of Mr. Tai’s tour. Above: Employees of EF Ultimate Break on Mr. Tai’s boat during the Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel FAM trip in 2024

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TECH TO KNOW

YOUR NEW SECRET WEAPON: VIRTUAL REALITY

Virtual reality is becoming a powerful tool for travel advisors to inspire, upsell and win new clients.

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THE STATE OF VR: WHAT ADVISORS NEED TO KNOW Forget the clunky cardboard headsets and grainy videos that gave VR a bad rap a decade ago. Today’s VR goggles are light, sharp and extremely immersive, said Sam Neblett, senior AR/VR developer for Boeing and research committee co-chair of the Augmented Reality for Enterprise Alliance.

And perhaps more importantly, the content has caught up, too, ranging from realistic tours of hotel suites and cruise ships to destination walk-throughs and 360-degree cultural experiences.

“People are uploading 4K and 8K [resolution] videos, and on top of that, we’re seeing more augmented reality (AR) content,” said Neblett, who has also served as a CES Innovation Awards judge for the AR/VR category.

So, how much does it cost to incorporate VR into your business? It can be as little as $300 for a Meta Quest 3S headset, which lets you access VR content from YouTube, tourism boards and major travel brands like Marriott and National Geographic. You can also create your own VR travel content with an Insta360 camera, which starts at $550.

Some VR and AR experiences don’t require a

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ith virtual reality (VR), travelers can tour Tokyo at peak cherry blossom season, greet alpacas at Machu Picchu or walk the gardens of the Taj Mahal — all from the couch. The idea that travelers can see the world without leaving home might sound like bad news for travel advisors, whose businesses depend on people getting on planes.

But VR won’t steal your job. In fact, it’s here to help. Embracing VR and related tools can give you fresh ways to impress clients, calm their nerves and turn wanderlust into real trips — complete with commissions.

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headset at all — clients can access 360-degree videos, Google Maps Live View or translation features right on their smartphones. Travel advisors can add value by walking clients through these tools before they depart.

5 WAYS TRAVEL ADVISORS CAN USE VR Like the tech itself, the ways travel advisors can use VR are nearly endless — from sparking wanderlust at a consultation to supporting clients abroad with live translation and navigation.

Here are Neblett’s suggestions for practical ways to bring VR and AR into your travel business: • Impress at the consultation: You can queue up tours of a few destinations you think a new client would love to visit on a VR device. Getting a taste of a place can build excitement and emotional

investment — two powerful motivators for moving forward with a booking.

• Drive upgrades: Show clients the difference between a standard hotel room and a suite on a VR tour. “It’s a way to upsell and show people what to expect when they get there,” Neblett said. When travelers can see the extra space, better view or added amenities, they’re more likely to decide the upgrade is worth it.

• Scout new places: No matter how many FAM trips you take, you can’t see everything. But VR can help fill the gap, preparing you to answer client questions with confidence — even if you haven’t stepped foot on site.

• Support clients on the trip: Many AR experiences don’t require a high-tech headset — just a smartphone. Teach clients how to use Google Maps Live View to navigate or Google Translate’s “Live

Translation” feature to read menus and signs. It’s just one more way to add value for your clients, positioning you as their trusted guide.

• Attract new clients: VR can also be a creative marketing tool. On your next trip, bring a 360-degree camera to capture immersive VR videos you can upload to YouTube or Google Maps. Add your agency’s name as a watermark, and your content (along with your firsthand expertise) becomes discoverable to travelers researching that destination. “That’s how to reach new customers,” Neblett said.

Whether you use VR goggles to immerse clients in their next vacation destination or simply show them the magic of Google Translate on a foreign restaurant menu, these tools amplify your role as the expert who turns dream trips into actual reality. And that’s something no headset can replace.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF DELIA DUPLESSIS

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Bringing

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to Life

VETERAN TRAVEL PROS SHARE THE PARTNERSHIPS, QUICK PIVOTS AND PERSONAL TOUCHES THAT TURNED THEIR CLIENTS’ DREAMS INTO REALITY. WORDS / NICOLE EDENEDO

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lanning a dream vacation is no easy feat, even for the most seasoned advisors. It takes a village of trusted suppliers, reliable service networks and savvy destination experts who know how to deliver the best experience. But more than that, successful vacations require mutual trust, understanding and clear lines of communication between the client and their advisor.

No matter what kind of travel dreams you’re helping bring to life, check out these accounts from travel advisors about how they pulled off the ultimate trips for their clients.

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DELIA DUPLESSIS BOOKS SOLO 80TH BIRTHDAY TRIP Take the story of Dream Destinations Agency owner Delia DuPlessis and her client Sally, who wanted a solo trip to Africa for her 80th birthday. Sally dreamed of close encounters with her favorite animals, stays at luxury tented camps and safari resorts, meaningful interactions with local villagers and as many thrilling “Out of Africa” moments as possible.

“The resilience of this woman, determined to travel alone for the first time at her age, was inspirational,” DuPlessis said.

Sally’s birthday was only a few short months away when she reached out, but DuPlessis accepted the challenge based on her passion for and experience in planning African safaris.

DuPlessis organized a safari tour of Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa, where Sally enjoyed a tented camp stay at Zebra Plains Collection in the Masai Mara Reserve, a visit to Nairobi’s Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to meet giraffes and baby elephants, rejuvenating spa treatments at Thornybush Lodge in South Africa and a private art tour and penguin sightings in Cape Town and Boulder Bay. Sally even got her wish to see Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, which she described as “a curtain of diamonds in the sun.”

Not everything was easy, though. Challenges included an in-destination booking mix-up that cost Sally her original Victoria Falls tour choice and not getting the elephant art safari due to miscommunication with the tour guide. Still, DuPlessis was able to pivot and offer similar alternatives. The end result, DuPlessis said, was a satisfied traveler who walked away from her vacation feeling empowered, full of joy and with newfound friends.

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SUZANNE HAIRE MAPS TOUR FOR ART HISTORY STUDENT’S DISSERTATION When romance travel specialist Suzanne Haire overheard a college bartender at a local tavern one night mulling over her dissertation topic ahead of her upcoming semester abroad in the U.K., Haire’s ears perked up.

Taylor, an art history graduate student, wanted to see museums and historic sites in Europe and the U.K. — and somehow weave that experience into her dissertation. Haire suggested she visit the continent ahead of the semester to jumpstart ideas. Several planning sessions later, Haire and Taylor came up with a 200-page bound-book itinerary for a six-week trek across the U.K. and Europe, ending in Budapest just before classes began.

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sheets added in between for Taylor to take notes and document important findings for her paper.

Haire maximized her commissions by letting Taylor know upfront the hourly rate she would charge for bookings that didn’t pay commissions and accepted commissions as-is for bookings that did offer them.

There were some hiccups along the way, including Taylor temporarily losing her fanny pack in a taxicab that was later returned intact, money and all — which Haire credits to using a reputable transfer company.

“It may not have been a huge ordeal except all her money was in it,” Haire explained. “So I worked right away to find the shuttle driver who was able to locate her fanny pack and return it to her.”

ILLUSTRATION (MODIFIED) ANTIKWAR/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; INSET PHOTO: COURTESY OF SUZANNE HAIRE

Suzanne Haire’s client Taylor, an art history graduate student, during her art history tour around Europe

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GINA PORTER PLANS CELEBRATORY TRIP (AND SURPRISE) OF A LIFETIME

Above: Shaun Alcott’s honeymoon couple enjoys a glass of sparkling wine in the Franschhoek’s winelands.

Left: Shaun Alcott’s honeymoon couple enjoys a glass of wine overlooking Franschhoek Wine Valley.

TOP PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHAUN ALCOTT; RIGHT: GINA PORTER, GG LUXURY TRAVEL

SHAUN ALCOTT CRAFTS SPECIAL HONEYMOON

A newlywed couple that always wanted to visit South Africa and Victoria Falls got the honeymoon of their dreams from Shaun Alcott, a destination specialist at Kensington Tours with more than 20 years of experience planning trips throughout Africa.

Alcott said the key to success for pulling off this trip was qualifying her new clients and learning more about who they were and what they wanted.

“You really want to learn about the client, and what their lifestyle is like and what their expectations would be when they’re coming into their trip,” Alcott said.

The trip began in Cape Town, where the couple toured sites like Table Mountain and enjoyed privately guided tours in the Cape Winelands. Alcott booked them a number of culinary experiences and worked with resort staff to deliver surprise touches, like scattered rose petals, chocolates and freshly drawn bubble baths in their rooms, in addition to spa appointments.

“We have a partner in South Africa who is fantastic; it all comes through teamwork as we all work together on this,” Alcott said.

Surprise upgrades are an added touch Alcott likes to take advantage of, especially since they’re also a great way to earn higher commissions. To achieve that, Alcott stressed the importance of knowing your clients.

“It’s always fruitful when you understand what those clients’ expectations are,” Alcott said, adding that she likes to know how her clients live, whether accommodations or activities are more important to them and what they consider luxury.

Gina Porter, founder of GG Luxury Travel, is crafting a special trip to Paris next May to mark a couple’s 35th wedding anniversary and the wife’s 60th birthday — and some surprises are already unfolding.

Referred by a previous client, the husband told Porter he wanted this trip to be a testament to their love and the life they’ve built together over the last three decades.

The custom itinerary Porter delivered includes Michelin-starred dining, a private Seine cruise and an exclusive after-hours visit to Versailles. There’s also a special gift: an 80-page hardcover photo album that showcases the details of their upcoming Parisian adventure, complete with family photos and heartfelt birthday wishes from loved ones.

“On her birthday, he presented it tucked inside a new handbag she had always dreamed of,” Porter said. “The moment became as unforgettable as the trip itself.”

Planning the surprise elements was tricky, Porter said, as she had to balance secrecy with the practicalities of booking international travel. But clear communication and strong local supplier relationships have set the trip up for success.

Porter maximized her commissions by charging separate travel design fees and creative fees for producing the 80-page photo book.

She also strategically partnered with hotels that offered suites with higher commission rates and provided additional amenities like daily breakfast, complimentary upgrades and VIP transfers.

“I am always transparent about pricing and fees, and in this case, the client was thrilled with the value he received — both from the seamless logistics and from the creativity that transformed the trip into an unforgettable experience,” Porter said.

The 80-page photobook commemorating the 35th wedding anniversary and 60th birthday of the wife of Gina Porter’s client who is planning a special celebratory trip to Paris for the couple in May.

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How to Sell the Top Brands in Travel W O R D S / R O S S I LY N N E S K E NA C U L G A N

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hese days, luxury travel isn’t just about the fancy hotel room, the sleek town car or the concierge who can secure last-minute dinner reservations at the hot new restaurant. Instead, today’s luxury travelers are looking for customized highend experiences with exclusivity, access and a connection to their own life story.

As a luxury travel expert with four decades of experience, Angela Hughes knows how to find these ultra-luxe gems across the map. She’s the CEO and founder of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, where she leads a team of 140 advisors specializing in premium to ultra-high-net-worth bespoke travel experiences. She also created Luxury Travel University, a private consulting and training platform designed to help travel professionals in the competitive luxury market. Here, she shares her top picks of luxury brands for every type of travel, from cruises and hotels to planes and trains. Plus, she offers tips for advisors looking to level up and sell big in the luxury space.

COURTESY OF BAGLIONI HOTEL LUNA VENICE

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Luxury Brands for Every Type of Travel

Designed to evoke the intimacy of a private yacht, EXPLORA I offers ocean-front suites and impeccable design.

Forget the term “luxury cruises.” A newer player in the cruise market, Explora Journeys has rebranded that term into “ocean journeys”— and those journeys are top on Hughes’ list of the best ocean cruises. The company, a part of the MSC Group out of Geneva, Switzerland, focuses on wellness and design with its five ships traveling across the globe.

“Every single stateroom you walk in has great bedding, great amenities,” Hughes said. “You can come in entry-level and really love it.” Hughes highlighted the little details like lined drawers, high-end blow dryers and lush shampoo. “For me, that’s my top pick this year.”

She also recommended Seabourn’s yacht-style ships for their attentive service, ocean-front suites with verandas and delicious food menus. This global, Carnival-owned company sets itself apart with its Expedition Cruises, featuring zodiac tours, submarine experiences and cultural connections for “a remote off-grid experience with a luxury feel,” Hughes said.

RIVER CRUISE LINES

For those looking to sail the rivers rather than the seas, Hughes suggested Riverside Luxury Cruises, which “absolutely has the best food in cruising as a whole.” These luxury river cruises in Europe explore the Danube, Main, Moselle, Rhine, Rhône and Saône rivers on three resplendent ships. Even with the luxury look, the energy onboard doesn’t feel stuffy. Instead, the brand strives to reach a younger audience drawn by food, wine, design and unique shore excursions.

“Jennifer Halboth, the CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises and the Riverside Collection, is turning that into a boutique luxury brand on the river,” Hughes said.

For a few other top picks, Hughes suggested AmaWaterways, where the “ships are just getting better and better,” and Uniworld, known for its highly stylized European decor, artwork and tapestries.

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BOTTOM: COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISES RIGHT: ANGELA HUGHES

OCEAN CRUISE LINES

Below: Seahorse Suites, featured on both Riverside Ravel and Debussy, include a king-size bed, a floor-to-ceiling retractable window, walk-in closets and double vanities in the bathroom.

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Unparalleled Italian elegance puts Baglioni Hotels & Resorts at the top of Hughes’ list. The brand manages several properties in Italy, including in Florence, Rome, Milan, Sardinia, Puglia and Venice, as well as one resort in the Maldives.

“Baglioni is coming in as a quiet luxury brand. It’s hyperpersonalized, and it’s got a great European feel,” she said.

Hughes said the Baglioni Hotel Luna Venice is among her luxury favorites. Guests are whisked to the resort on a private boat through Venice’s famed canals and then offered suites overlooking the entire Grand Canal. It offers “the perfect waterfront location in a 12th-century palace” near Saint Mark’s Square and high-end shopping.

Even better? With attentive service, guests never have to haul their own luggage across Venice’s famously treacherous cobblestone streets.

Meanwhile, a bit farther south, Baglioni’s family-friendly Sardinia property features “rugged natural beauty” with regional food, wellness, gardens and a homey feeling.

If your luxury client is looking for other hotel options across the globe, the minimalist, ultra-high-end Aman is always a safe bet. As Hughes put it, “nobody’s going to beat Aman.” Her other top picks include The Belmond, with its focus on heritage, and Auberge Resorts, with its unique design and food.

AIRLINES

Once you’ve found the ideal luxury destination for your client, the next question is how to get there. When it comes to in-flight pampering, Singapore Airlines is the “top dog” with its plush bedding, beautiful suites and decked-out lounges, Hughes said. Passengers in suites and first-class cabins can expect gourmet meals, wine pairings, champagne and plenty of privacy. Similarly, Emirates offers exquisite first-class accommodations that Hughes described as “out of this world.” As 40

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Emirates puts it, first-class on its A380 is “as close as it comes to your own private jet.”

“I’m seeing a lot of my high-end clients go for the wow factor of these airlines,” she said.

Finally, Hughes also recommended Virgin Atlantic because of its clubhouse-style lounges with high-end design, stylish decor and vast food options. Plus, “when you arrive at Heathrow, you feel like a rockstar with them,” she added.

GUIDED TOURS

Travelers this year are loving Luxury Gold, known for its tailor-made group travel options, Hughes said. The company, which is a part of TTC, offers travelers a chance to customize their tour based on specific interests, like art, gardens, military history or sports. Itineraries run the gamut with Luxury Gold. For example, options might include dinner with a New Zealand rugby player, a chance to meet a Hiroshima survivor in Japan or a chauffeured experience through the French countryside in a Citroën 2CV, to name a few. Luxury Gold also offers a host of limited-edition tours, which can appeal to travelers looking for a truly one-of-a-kind, exclusive experience.

Hughes also highlighted the century-old Tauck, which she said “always shines in that space” with its vast array of destinations and its exclusive access without crowds. A few highlights on offer include a private cocktail reception in the Alps and an Imperial evening in Vienna at Palais Pallavicini. Tauck’s small group journeys average around 24 guests, and its “even smaller” group journeys come in at just 15 guests per experience.

For one more option, add Abercrombie & Kent’s small-group experiences to your list. A resident tour director takes small groups under their wing for journeys across the globe, from safaris in Botswana to adventures in Lapland. Hughes underscored the

COURTESY OF LUXURY GOLD; LUDOVIC BALAY (PHOTOGRAPHER)

HOTELS AND RESORTS

CLOCKWISE LEFT TO RIGHT: COURTESY OF BAGLIONI HOTEL LUNA VENICE; COURTESY OF SINGAPORE AIRLINES;

Marco Polo Ballroom at Baglioni Hotel Luna in Venice, Italy

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Exclusively on the A380 aircraft

Tourists visiting Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria

brand’s dedication to not just ultra-luxury, bespoke tours but also to sustainability and philanthropy.

TRAINS

Train travel is having a moment right now, from Peru to the U.K. to France, offering travelers a chance to step back in time. For Hughes, Belmond is the go-to. This early adopter of the slow travel movement invites travelers to climb aboard its suite of trains, including the Hiram Bingham at Machu Picchu, the Royal Scotsman in Scotland and the Eastern & Oriental Express in Asia.

“Trains brought back this revitalization of the 1920s vintage [aesthetic],” Hughes said.

As a part of the company LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), Belmond is no stranger to the ultimate high-end detailing. For example, guests on its five-night Scottish Rail Experience relax in mahogany-clad cars and get pampered at the Bamford spa while chugging through Edinburgh and winding through lochs. Or board the Art Deco masterpiece Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a journey from London to Venice. This luxury sleeper train boasts enough polished wood, sumptuous upholstery and antique fixtures to take passengers back in time to the Golden Age of travel.

For an understated but still luxurious competitor, Hughes suggested the Swiss rail system, which offers first-class seating for its passages around the mountainous country. There’s even the dreamy Chocolate Train, a stately Pullman train dating back to 1915 that runs between Montreux and the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory at Broc. The journey also includes admission to the La Maison du Gruyère cheese factory.

“Hidden experiences like Gruyère are super exciting for people,” Hughes said. “Even for someone like me, who’s been to Switzerland a million times; I was like, ‘Whoa, how did I miss this?’”

Bar Car ‘3674’ on Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

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Tips for Advisors Selling Luxury Products SELL ON EMOTION, NOT PRICE

Luxury clients aren’t just buying a trip, Hughes explained; they’re buying a feeling. Rather than booking your clients at the most touristy, sought-after attractions, instead look for unique experiences. Think eating fondue in a cozy Alpine town, visiting a museum after-hours through a private entrance or dining with a local chef. Advisors can leverage their relationships and connections to make experiences like that possible for luxury travelers.

Advisors can use language like “exclusive” and “private” to help emphasize the value of the journey. Hughes also recommended helping clients connect with their heritage and legacy when applicable, perhaps helping them visit places connected to their own family’s history.

MAKE CONNECTIONS — ONLINE AND IN-PERSON

Now that you know how to talk to luxury clients, how do you find them?

Social media, especially Instagram and TikTok, can be used to showcase destinations to potential clients, as Hughes can attest to with her 20,000 followers. But it’s not just about posting a pretty beach photo; instead, she recommended creating interesting videos about destinations and aspirational, high-end imagery that tells a story.

“The way that we sell travel is through stories,” she said. “Use content that’s inspirational and aspirational.”

But social media isn’t the only important avenue for finding new clients. Advisors must also build in-person relationships through good old-fashioned networking. Confidence is the key to developing those connections, so do your research and position yourself as an authority.

“Too many advisors are going to just social media only and not real relationship building,” Hughes said. “You’ve got to get out and talk to real people. You’ll never sell high-end travel if you don’t socialize with people who are going to buy it.”

In her years of experience, Hughes has seen some advisors become committed to one particular brand, even though that brand doesn’t offer the best payout. Instead, she suggests looking for brands where you can earn your best commission. Even a difference between a 10% or a 15% yield makes a big difference, especially on a luxury budget.

Take boats, for example. Though a yacht experience may fit a luxury client’s interest, yacht bookings typically don’t offer a great yield for the advisor, whether you’re buying through a broker or a destination management company. Perhaps there are other options the traveler could consider, giving them an equally luxe experience and you a bit more money in your paycheck.

“If you want to be making a lot of money in travel, you’ve got to determine what your highest yield brands are, and then you’ve got to stick with them,” Hughes said. “You can’t be too scattered across your portfolio.”

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COURTESY OF LUXURY GOLD

UNDERSTAND HOW COMMISSION WORKS FOR LUXURY PRODUCTS

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Taj Mahal in Agra India

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A McLaren car at the September 2025 F1 Grand Prix in Italy

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From

STADIUMS to STAGES On L ocation Redefines Live Event Travel

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SITTING DOWN ON YOUR COMFY COUCH, SURROUNDED by friends, family and other fanatics, you grab the remote and excitedly search your streaming services for the big game. Selecting the channel and cranking the volume, you sit back in your seat (but not too far because how else will you be able to quickly jump out of it?) and bask in the fluorescent glow of the screen. Through the highs and lows and twists and turns of watching your team compete, your heart rate steadily climbs, preparing for the moment — the one where your team wins it all and you hold onto your viewing partners in a chaotic clamor, yelling, bouncing and cheering as you celebrate a victory so real, it almost feels like your own.

These gatherings are precious — the ritual of watching a game with other die-hard fans in a welcoming atmosphere is irreplaceable.

But imagine having that experience live, in real time and in a new destination, as the crowd’s pulsating energy transforms the venue into a living, breathing space.

It’s that exact raw, adrenaline-inducing feeling of watching live events that’s encouraged the surge of sports tourism in recent years.

In fact, this niche part of the industry has an estimated growth rate of 17.5% between 2023 and 2030, making up for 10% of the world’s spending on tourism, according to a Sports Tourism Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis report. Major upcoming global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup — featuring venues across the United States, Canada and Mexico — and the Olympic Games in Italy and Los Angeles will only further drive travelers’ interest in sports tourism.

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On Location clients at the Ryder Cup

event or sport, this luxury treatment is standard across On Location’s traditional packages, ensuring each traveler has a memorable experience.

“On Location has something for everyone,” said Matthews. “Our entry-level packages are extremely attainable for the bucket list fan or a family looking for an exciting vacation for four.”

THE SPORTS EXPERIENCE, REIMAGINED A major component of the brand’s magic is its relationship with some of the most recognizable franchises in sports.

“On Location is the official hospitality partner for the world’s largest, most exciting events in sports and entertainment,” said Keir Matthews, head of global luxury sales at On Location. “With that title, we’re able to work closer with the event organizers, leagues and governing bodies than anyone else can to create once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that other hospitality providers can’t provide.”

It’s these brand relationships that have translated into premium access to events like the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four and PGA Championship, to name a few. Think a one-, two- or three-day pass to Formula 1’s Pirelli Gran Premio D’Italia, complete with private lounges, a full-day hospitality experience in the exclusive grandstand and gourmet, chef-curated cuisine. Or maybe it’s lower-level seating at UFC Fight Night, topped off with a dedicated VIP entrance, reserved seats at ceremonial weigh-ins and private athlete appearances. Regardless of the

ENTERTAINMENT WORTH TRAVELING FOR The complementary sister to sports travel, “gig-tripping,” “music tourism” or however else it may be referred to, is another point of interest for adventurers. A recent Credence Research report underscores music’s prominence in driving the travel industry, predicting the market’s value to reach $400.5 billion by 2032. Surveys from brands like Bank of America confirm these findings with data of their own, noting that 50% of respondents in their 2025 Summer Travel and Entertainment report traveled for a concert, festival or sporting event out of state or internationally within the last two years.

The rise in music tourism can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as an increase in general awareness of major festivals, social media boosting the global visibility of events and access to shows otherwise not available in a traveler’s home area. Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is a prime example of this — videos about the pop icon’s three-and-a-halfhour performance went viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and many listeners were only able to secure tickets to see Swift in a

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ON LOCATI0ON

Despite the growing demand for live event travel, few brands possess the industry connections needed to turn big dreams into unforgettable experiences. On Location is bridging this gap, and with over two decades of expertise curating original itineraries, your client’s next big adventure is closer than ever before — here’s how to get them there.

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On Location is partnered with some of the biggest franchises in sports and entertainment to get clients premium access to events.

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neighboring state, encouraging long road trips and extended weekend vacations. Some avid music-goers even followed the star across the pond for her European leg, finding it easier to snag seats abroad and taking the opportunity to explore bucket list destinations while they were there.

Recognizing the industry growth and supporting music lovers in their search for epic performances, On Location also offers entertainmentbased packages. Beloved events such as Stagecoach, Buckeye Country Superfest and Coachella are up for grabs, with VIP tickets, pre-show meet-and-greets, hand-selected lodging and premium transportation services among the extra perks available. These bonuses are often bundled together as well, so when travelers purchase their tickets to the main festival, they can book their hotel and transportation services at the same time. Even within the standard packages, On Location provides tiered experiences to fit every budget, whether travelers are looking for general admission, pit tickets, economy accommodations or a 5-star hotel stay.

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THE ADVISOR ADVANTAGE Travel advisors thinking of tapping into the sports, entertainment and music market should do some digging about customer preferences and their travel patterns to better match them with On Location’s offerings.

For instance, a study by Expedia Group reported that 44% of travelers visited an international destination for their most recent sporting event. That figure is up to 56% for visitors ages 16-34, emphasizing the willingness of younger travelers to go further in ticking off a bucket list item. Additionally, attending the event itself is only one component of the trip — connecting socially and emotionally with friends, family or loved ones is equally as important to create a more meaningful experience overall. While not every client interested in live event travel will fit a particular mold, a general understanding about their behaviors will help narrow an advisor’s marketing approach.

Business pros can also capitalize on the growing demand for experiential travel with On Location’s commission structure. The process is simple and starts with business pros completing an online form to connect with a sales representative. From there, a rate is established based on the product or event.

Matthews encourages advisors who are interested in promoting these events and experiences to get the message out ahead of time.

“It is never too early to start planning. Check out our website, sign up for our travel advisor newsletter, or reach out to our team (traveladvisors@onlocationexp.com), and we can get you the information you need to help your clients decide,” he said. “As far as when to book, the sooner the better. [Travelers] will have more options versus waiting and feeling disappointed.”

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TAILORED TO PERFECTION Luxury travel means something different to everyone, and On Location meets the need for fully customizable itineraries with its Platinum Access category.

“Our Platinum Access program creates bespoke itineraries and experiences that guests can’t find on our website,” explained Matthews.

“Your clients want to take in the amazing food and wine in Milano, we can curate a private dining or cooking experience. They are a winter sports fanatic and want to hit the slopes in between sport events, On Location can get them slope time.”

These ultra-luxurious experiences are perfect for corporate groups or high-end clients who prioritize the flexibility Platinum Access can offer.

The sky’s the limit for these travelers, and optional enhancements can include special restaurant bookings, hand-selected activities, exclusive talent appearances and private meeting or lounge spaces not available with the standard offerings.

Matthews shared how one Platinum Access client was taking advantage

of this access, explaining, “We are planning an amazing brunch package with authentic Italian cuisine in a spectacular venue, with an appearance by a former Olympic gold medalist and household name,” he said. “On Location is always creating unique and once-in-a-lifetime experiences your clients won’t find anywhere else.”

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TURNING TRAVEL INTO CREATIVE FUEL WORDS / SAMANTHA ANDERSON

Multicultural experiences don’t just teach us about the world —

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Whether it’s in the quiet of a remote village or the cacophony of a port city, inspiration is everywhere.

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they permanently rewire how artists see, create and imagine.

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E

very great creator, from chefs and authors to painters and musicians, knows the frustration of lapses in creative inspiration. Call it writer’s block or some other haunting phrase, the feeling remains the same: your work feels bleak, banal and unimaginative. We recognize there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, but in the meantime, we drag our feet to start the next project, drop shoulders under the weight of our self-imposed pressure and dip heads in defeat.

For some, the usual remedies of strolling through a nearby park or succumbing to a quick doom scroll through social media can do the trick, albeit only temporarily. These solutions tend to be Band-Aid fixes rather than cures, and sometimes what creators truly need to overcome the creative hump is a fundamental change in their perspective.

By now, you’ve probably pieced together that the answer lies in travel, but its true impact on the brain is about more than a change in scenery.

Think about those trippy ambiguous images that circulate online, the ones where you see either a duck or a rabbit, a young woman or an old one. Two people can look at the exact same image and see completely different things. No matter how hard you squint or what angle you hold your head, it’s impossible to see the other version until it’s drawn out for you. It clicks, and once you’ve seen it both ways, there’s no unseeing it.

Your perception has permanently changed.

This is precisely what travel does for the creative mind. Rather than

provide a source of temporary inspiration like other quick fixes, it rewires how you view your craft. A 2025 Psychology Today article explained this process, emphasizing that new destinations are mentally stimulating in ways that our home environments cannot be. By surrounding ourselves with different cultures, dormant synapses are activated in the brain, creating a growing toolbox of inspiration at the artist’s disposal. None of this is possible, however, without an open mind and some active reflection about your experiences along the way.

EMBRACING THE UNFAMILIAR At first, the unique combination of sights, smells, colors, textures and flavors travelers encounter upon arrival can feel overwhelming, especially as visitors do their best to adjust to the culture shock and time changes through their jet-lagged haze. Once the initial adjustment passes, acknowledging your surroundings (and paying special attention to what the senses pick up) is an effective way to begin opening your creative lens.

Dining out at a local restaurant and taking note of particularly interesting flavor combinations, sitting at a dive bar and soaking up the live music layered with regional beats or even perusing a farmer’s market and running your fingers over a delicately woven scarf are a few ways travelers can more actively tune into their surroundings. It’s natural for visitors to want to hit the ground running when exploring a new destination, but creators will particularly find that slowing down and taking in the

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An artist practices the detailed process of iconography; middle: A traveler tries their hand at traditional washi papermaking in Japan.

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atmosphere will help them pick up on the finer details. Active processing of these moments will more thoroughly stimulate the mind, providing travelers with clearer sources of inspiration to pull from down the line.

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TURNING EXPERIENCE INTO GROWTH Becoming more aware of your new environment is only step one in fueling the creative toolbox. In any area of life, one of the best ways to guarantee retention is through hands-on application, and this scenario is no different.

For writers, this might mean attending a poetry workshop in Ireland, where rolling green hills and ancient fortresses become more than scenery; they transform into a new horizon for your imagination, showing you how to think in myth and metaphor. For painters visiting the historic city of Athens, a Byzantine iconography workshop is deeper than just a new technique; it’s a refined visual approach rooted in centuries of tradition.

Even exploring art forms outside of your discipline can have a positive impact and shift your creative perception. A chef in a traditional Oaxacan weaving and natural dyeing class in Mexico will learn about the patience required to handle the fabric, a lesson that becomes evident in how they prepare their meals. A musician who takes a washi papermaking class in Japan may discover a new approach to layering and texturizing their music, embellishing their stanzas with bold patterns. These crossdisciplinary experiences further encourage creative breakthroughs, helping artists discover new depths to their capabilities.

FINDING YOUR CREATIVE POTENTIAL Travel is an excellent tool for current creators and artists to find new sources of inspiration, but it can also be for those who don’t have a professional career in the field. Many of us had hobbies like painting or pottery at one point or another, and it’s easy to let those pieces of us atrophy as the demands of life take over. Reigniting your passion for an art form is an equally valid approach to travel, and one that reminds us we can again view life through a creative lens. Take the pottery course or sewing workshop, even if it feels uncomfortable. Travel is always presenting us with opportunities to push our boundaries and embrace the unknown, and growing within our artistic interests is one of the advantages.

So, whether you’re a seasoned creator on the cusp of breaking through a creative plateau or someone looking to reconnect with their long-lost love for the arts, travel is an overlooked remedy that provides more than temporary inspiration. Like the ambiguous images, once you know where to look, travel opens an imaginary lens that permanently influences your artistic toolkit. The workshops you participate in, the flavors you sample and the textures you grasp — they all merge into a richer, more nuanced perspective that follows you home long after you’ve unpacked.

The next time a silent stanza, empty plate or blank page stares back at you, remember that the cure might not be within immediate reach but rather in the yet-to-be-discovered streets of a new destination. Your next stroke of creative genius could just be a plane ride away.

Teotitlán is a Mexican town known for its weaving, with a local woman demonstrating the process of making a rug on a wooden loom.

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The ART of HANDLING CANCELED TRIPS

ADVISORS CAN USE THESE STEP-BY-STEP STRATEGIES TO NAVIGATE LAST-MINUTE CHANGES, SAFEGUARD COMMISSIONS AND KEEP CLIENTS COMING BACK. WORDS / JONI SWEET

PICTURE THIS: YOU’VE SPENT THE PAST YEAR planning a couple’s 25th-anniversary trip to the Maldives, securing a 10-day stay in the resort’s most romantic overwater villa, arranging seaplane transfers, booking spa treatments and excursions and making sure a chilled bottle of champagne would be waiting on arrival.

Then, just days before departure comes the call no advisor wants to get. There’s been a family emergency, and the couple can’t make the trip. Their disappointment is crushing — and now, your commission is on the line.

Cancellations like this are inevitable in the travel business, but they don’t have to be a total loss. With some advance planning, the right systems and a dose of empathy, you can salvage your effort and even inspire clients to rebook when the time is right. Here’s how to handle a canceled trip in a way that protects your relationships and your business.

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PREP CLIENTS BEFORE PROBLEMS POP UP Handling cancellations like a pro starts long before a client ever thinks the trip might fall through. For Casey Halloran, CEO and co-founder at Costa Rican Vacations, a 26-year-old travel agency that has planned more than 65,000 trips, that means encouraging clients to invest in travel insurance early.

“We push it heavily, particularly for large groups, corporate travel and once you get into the six-figure range for a booking,” he said. “When a trip gets over a certain level of complexity or over a certain dollar figure, the travel advisor has to help the customer think through risk.”

He walks clients through real-life scenarios that could affect their trip: a potential hospitalization from an injury on an excursion, an outbreak of a virus that makes travel too dangerous or a sudden family emergency. By framing the conversation around “what ifs,” he helps clients

understand the risks that could impact their trip and offers suggestions for policies that could protect them.

Heather Huber, a travel advisor at Vincent Vacations, said being proactive about insurance has helped protect both her clients and her bottom line when a trip gets canceled. In fact, when one of her honeymoon clients had to back out of a $20,000 trip to Tahiti after being diagnosed with cancer, the policy they purchased through Classic Vacations not only gave them a full refund but also included commission protection for their advisor.

“That’s a big perk of that insurance because you spend a lot of time planning a trip like that and you can protect the commission,” she explained.

ACT WITH URGENCY Once you find out a client needs to cancel, time is of the essence. Acting with urgency shows clients you care about their situation, you’re handling the details and you’re

committed to finding the best possible outcome.

“Run head-on into this like an EMT. Don’t dilly-dally. You’ve got to just attack it,” Halloran said. His team even developed a triage approach during COVID-19, prioritizing the most urgent situations, such as travelers already at the airport. He added that you should make sure the client has a single point of contact at your agency they can go to for updates, questions and resolution.

“As the customer, you don’t want to have to chase down five different people to try to put your case back together,” Halloran said.

Let the client know you care about their situation and the next steps. Huber suggested saying something like, “I’m really sorry you have to cancel,” and “Let me follow up with you in an email.”

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HANDLING COMPLEX CANCELLATIONS Transparency and strong relationships are your best assets when you’re dealing with a complex cancellation, like when there are

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nonrefundable deposits involved, a large group booking falls through or the traveler didn’t purchase insurance. Clients want to know you’re doing everything possible on their behalf, even if the outcome isn’t certain, so be honest about what you’re doing to address the situation.

Halloran recalled having “brutally honest conversations” with clients during the pandemic, when refunds weren’t immediately available — or even guaranteed.

He told clients: “If I get the money from the supplier, I’ll get the money to you. You’ve just got to give me time.” Setting clear expectations early protects your credibility and gives clients some peace of mind.

This is when the ability to call in favors with long-standing partners really pays off, Halloran continued. He thinks of his agency’s strong relationships with suppliers as the “X factor” for his business and his clients.

“This is why you book with an agency versus

an OTA or even direct, because when things go wrong, it’s a very different experience. It’s part of our sales pitch,” he said.

Because suppliers trust him, Halloran is often able to negotiate cancellation deadline extensions, reduced penalty fees and other resolutions to help his clients avoid major losses when they’re dealing with extenuating circumstances.

When speaking with suppliers about ways to address a complex cancellation, Huber urged advisors to be polite and honest. “Be really personable, tell them exactly what’s happened and ask if there’s anything they can do,” she said.

Huber added that it’s OK to ask: “Can you make a one-time exception?”

TURNING CANCELLATIONS INTO FRESH STARTS When a trip gets canceled, it’s easy to get caught up in logistics and finances. But

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negotiating a fair solution for everyone. This is also the moment to review any travel insurance the client purchased to see what coverage might apply before making final decisions.

Document everything as you go, including what has been promised, and refund and credit amounts. A clear paper trail helps keep you clear on the details and reassures clients that their case is being handled professionally. Once you’ve got all your ducks in a row, send the client an email outlining everything.

“I’ll write, ‘Please confirm you’d like me to cancel because this cannot be undone.’

That gets them to respond in a natural way,” Huber noted.

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Halloran said it’s important to remember that for clients, the real pain point usually isn’t the money — it’s the lost experience.

That milestone anniversary trip they spent months planning now feels like it’s never going to happen.

“They wanted that memory and now they’re grieving that it didn’t go the way they wanted it to go,” Halloran said. “That’s why we try to stay away from money talk as much as we can.”

Instead, he tells clients: “Don’t worry, we’ll save this trip and figure out a way to recreate it at a different time.”

Huber reminds clients that they may have the option of pushing a trip back if the dates they originally wanted to travel are no longer an option, which can help prevent a vacation from being canceled altogether.

Even if the trip must be canceled indefinitely, try reframing it as a “pause,”

Halloran said. Keeping the dream of the trip alive — even in a small way, when it feels like that vacation is no longer possible — can help clients stay hopeful. A simple reminder that you can make this trip a reality for them later on helps shift the focus away from the loss.

Once the dust settles, a low-pressure follow-up can help put the booking back on the table. Huber checks in months later with a postcard letting clients know she’s thinking of them or an email reminding them about a credit they may have.

“I usually set up a reminder for that travel credit about six months before it expires and just reach out and say ‘Hey, you’ve got this travel credit, it expires in six months. Can I quote you anything?’” she said.

In Huber’s experience, that approach pays off. The couple who had to cancel their $20,000 Tahiti trip eventually came back to

rebook that vacation — with an even bigger budget.

Rebooked trips can bring added benefits for advisors beyond commission. Halloran recalled working with a family who postponed a multigenerational trip after their grandfather passed away. When they finally traveled, the experience became a way to honor his memory. They sent photos from the trip and later left a glowing review, saying how grateful they were that Halloran encouraged them not to completely abandon their travel plans, even though they were put on hold.

When handled well, a canceled trip doesn’t have to be the end of a story. It can be an opportunity to show your client just how valuable you are and that you’re ready to make their travel dreams come true when the time is right. It may even turn what might have been a one-time booking into a lifelong relationship with a client.

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HOW AI CAN SUPERCHARGE YOUR BUSINESS (Without Turning You Into a Robot)

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WHY THE ADVISORS WHO EMBRACE AI NOW WILL THRIVE IN AN INDUSTRY THAT STILL RUNS ON HUMAN CONNECTION.

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AI 101: Tools and Prompting Techniques for Advisors

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Before you can put AI to work in your business, you need to know which tools are worth your time and how to get effective results from them. According to Ly, the best AI tools for travel advisors include: • ChatGPT: A solid, all-around chatbot for brainstorming, content creation and connecting to apps like Canva for even more functionality.

• Claude: “Basically ChatGPT with empathy,” Ly said, adding that it writes in a more human tone and is surprisingly good at creating polished PDFs for clients.

• Gemini: A “crazy beast” that connects to the entire Google ecosystem, including Gmail, Google Flights, Maps, Sheets and YouTube. It’s unbeatable for research and streamlining day-to-day operations, Ly said.

You can try them one at a time to see which tool fits your needs best, or experiment with all three. Either way, Ly recommended making an investment in a paid subscription to the AI products you want to incorporate into your business. The free versions are fine for basic tasks, but they put limits on functionality and usage, which severely hamstrings how much you can accomplish with them, Ly said.

No matter which AI tool you choose, it will only be as effective as the way you prompt it. Ly recommended a simple technique he called “RTF,” or role, task, format, when writing prompts.

• Step 1: Tell the AI who to be — maybe a social media director, an expert copywriter or a customer relations specialist.

• Step 2: Tell it what you want it to do. Maybe you need support drafting a 30-day content calendar, rewriting an email or analyzing a client complaint. The technology can adapt based on the task.

• Step 3: Tell the AI how you want the output delivered, like in a table, a PDF or bullet points.

And remember: “Nothing is better at writing a prompt than the AI you’re going to prompt,” Ly said. “Ask it what the prompt should be and it will tell you.”

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f you’ve ever typed “plan me a weeklong vacation in Rome” into an AI chatbot and watched a full itinerary — with hotels, restaurants and even booking links — appear in seconds, you’ve probably worried: Is this thing going to put me out of business?

That concern is not an overreaction. AI can spit out detailed, customized travel plans at lightning speed, blurring that line between what technology can do and what clients rely on advisors to do. As marketing technologist Kha Ly put it, “If you’re an order taker, a hobbyist, have no thought leadership and no value proposition, you’re almost asking to be replaced by AI.” Yikes!

On the flipside, AI isn’t a threat for savvy advisors, Ly said. It’s an accelerator that can make your marketing more consistent and effective, strengthen how you respond to demanding clients and help you deliver high-touch services no algorithm can replace — if you know how to use it thoughtfully.

Here’s a breakdown of what travel advisors need to know about AI and clever ways it can supercharge business.

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Create High-Touch Collateral

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he No. 1 mistake I see advisors make is to ask the AI to act as an advisor,” Ly noted.

Instead, continue relying on your own expertise to design dream trips, and use AI to enhance the experience you deliver around them.

“If you’re competing on an itinerary, you might be in trouble,” Ly said. “AI has more access to data than any person. Advisors should be competing on user experience, high-touch opportunities and have insights that the [client] cannot find on their own.”

This is where AI can be particularly helpful. Use it to generate thoughtful bonuses that make clients feel more supported before and during their journey.

“Can you imagine if you were getting ready to go to Europe for two weeks and you received a beautiful PDF from your travel advisor on what to pack for your pet to bring to the pet sitter?” Ly said.

And that’s just one of many examples from Ly on high-touch collateral you can create for clients with AI. You could also use it to send clients a PDF of must-know local phrases for a destination or a personalized photography guide on must-shoot spots in a city, based on the itinerary you designed.

You could use an AI music tool like Suno to produce custom tripreveal songs for families heading to Disney World, complete with their children’s names, he added.

These kinds of touches make the experience of working with you feel special and filled with those “surprise and delight” moments that wow clients.

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Stand Out With Smarter Marketing

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hen you’re juggling client calls, vendor follow-ups and last-minute itinerary changes, marketing often slips to the bottom of the to-do list. But without fresh content, you risk missing out on new leads and building thought leadership in your niche.

That’s where AI can really come in handy. Rather than spending half a day creating your social media content or newsletters for the month (or worse: skipping those tasks altogether), let AI do it for you, Ly said. In seconds, it can map out a 30-day social media marketing calendar, brainstorm topic ideas or convert content you’ve already created (like blog posts) into other ready-to-post formats.

When the plan and content are ready to go, it’s easier to stay consistent with your

marketing strategy.

What’s more, AI can actually make your marketing more effective using the expertise you already have. Most advisors fall into the trap of posting generic updates and captions (like “Don’t forget to book your cruise excursion early”) that people scroll past without noticing — if it hits their feed at all. You can ask AI to reframe that into something much more engaging by prompting it to “write a scroll-stopping hook and caption for this idea,” Ly noted.

It might suggest you caption the post with something like “I almost lost $200 not doing this one thing,” and then you explain what that means in your post.

“You create the value with your own knowledge and expertise, but use AI for the hooks and engagement text,” Ly added.

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Strengthen Client Communication and Insights

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ven the most experienced advisors can misread tone in an email. What feels professional to you might come across as cold. AI can be used as your client communications assistant, though, helping you get your message across more clearly and express yourself in a way that resonates with clients.

“You should always be asking AI to improve your emails. Even when I write something I think is fine, I’ll run it through AI and realize wow, the new version sounds way better,” Ly admitted.

Beyond polishing communication, AI can also help you determine what clients are really saying — especially if they’re upset about something. If a leader of a group trip complains about missing a perk on a cruise, for example, you might assume they’re disappointed about not getting the perk itself.

“But the truth is, that’s not the real reason they’re upset,” Ly said.

Ly explained that we’re a product of our own biases, which makes it tricky to understand what someone else is truly feeling. You can use AI to help you “get out of your own way” when addressing a customer complaint. Paste the client’s

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complaint into a chatbot and ask it to summarize the key grievances in bullet points.

“The AI might say that you’ve now made the other people in their group question their reputation,” Ly explained. That a-ha moment not only helps you respond more effectively in the moment but also trains you to spot underlying issues more quickly in the future, which can go a long way toward building trust and deepening long-term relationships.

AI’s itinerary-building capabilities might feel like a threat to your business, but that’s not where your true value lies. By offering a high-touch service filled with personal touches and creativity, you deliver something no machine can replicate — even if you use a chatbot to help you in the process. And advisors who embrace it sooner will be the ones still standing when clients demand more than what an AI tool could ever deliver on its own.

“AI is one of those things where you actually can’t stand on the sidelines and say, ‘Let me see how this is going to look,’” Ly said. “You can’t do that. You’re going to fall behind.”

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A travel companion smiles down at an Aldabra giant tortoise in the Seychelles, East Africa.

Would You Go?

ONE INNOCUOUS QUESTION LED THIS TRAVEL ADVISOR TO STEP FOOT ON ALL SEVEN CONTINENTS IN A SINGLE CALENDAR YEAR.

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t was New Year’s Eve 2022, and Cole Sjoholm was seated in front of a slot machine in Black Hawk, Colorado.

He was fresh out of a relationship and looking forward to 2023 when his phone pinged with a message. It was from Krystie, a friend who knew about his love of travel — Sjoholm is an avid cruise-goer and adventure hound — and she wanted to know if he’d seen the videos of the Drake Passage that were trending on TikTok. His response was something along the lines of, “No, but

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I’ve heard of it.” She then asked if he’d ever been to Antarctica. “No,” he replied again with an internal chuckle. “Would you go?” she responded. “I paused for about thirty-five seconds and replied, ‘Yes!’” Sjoholm said.

Having already booked a trip to Australia to celebrate his upcoming birthday and a trip to Europe to explore his ancestral roots, Sjoholm had decided 2023 was going to be a big year for personal travel long before Krystie’s fateful text popped up on his screen. However, as he thought about what she said, a grandiose plan

began taking shape in his head. “What she didn’t know at that exact moment was that my mind was working in overdrive,” said Sjoholm.

“Since Australia and Europe were already on the calendar, adding Antarctica meant I’d also have to visit South America. Then I thought, ‘If I’m going to do all of that in one year, I might as well add Asia and Africa and set foot on all seven continents.’”

While Sjoholm understood his budding plan was impulsive, he says he isn’t one to do things halfheartedly, instead calling himself someone

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Windblown mountaintops in Antarctica

Cole Sjoholm

who goes all-in. “Being ‘all-in’ can be both positive and negative, but once I make a decision, I work hard to follow through no matter what area of life we’re talking about,” he said.

So, returning to that casino in Blackhawk, Colorado, Sjoholm explained that the concept of stepping foot on all seven continents in a single calendar year, “felt completely logical in that moment.”

True to his all-in mentality, now that the idea was planted, Sjoholm wasn’t about to give himself the opportunity to back out. He immediately started researching travel options that very same night, jotting his findings on a sheet of paper and reviewing them at the casino buffet where he feasted on crab and prime rib. Giddy with excitement, Sjoholm wrote in his book, “Filling My Bucket: A Year of Solo Travel Across Seven Continents,” that he “went to bed, slept like a baby, and awoke the next morning and emailed my travel agent.”

Upon receiving his next-level request, Sjoholm’s travel agent sent a speedy reply reading, “Are you sure? You want to book and pay the deposits on all of this travel before you leave?” Despite the fact he was set to fly to Miami on January 5 for his first vacation of the year, Sjoholm assured her, yes, he was sure. “Once the deposits were paid, it became a form of accountability. I was going to do it, and I was going to do it solo,” he wrote. By the evening of January 4, everything was booked.

SEVEN CONTINENTS

“Looking back, the goal to go to all seven continents in a single calendar year was, for lack of a better word, absurd,” wrote Sjoholm.

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A woman shelters herself from the rain on Mystery Island in Vanuatu, Australia.

excessive. It was exactly all that.”

While we won’t recount the whole of his journey here — you’ll have to check out Sjoholm’s book for that — we will share the logistics. First, came North America, as he boarded two cruises out of Miami in January and visited San Francisco in February. Then it was Australia for that epic birthday trip in March. Continent number three was Europe in mid-June through July as Sjoholm sailed across Scandinavia on Celebrity Apex. Africa’s turn came in September, allowing Sjoholm to check a coveted visit to the Seychelles off his list. And then it was Asia in November, a continent he explored via ports in Japan, Taiwan, China and Vietnam before disembarking another Celebrity ship in Singapore.

By the time December rolled around, the end of Sjoholm’s adventure was in sight with only two continents remaining: South America and Antarctica. He arrived in South America first, touring Buenos Aires and Iguazu Falls before flying to Ushuaia, Argentina, to board a Viking expedition ship bound for The White Continent. Finally, on December 22, 2023,

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Sjoholm swung his legs over the side of a Zodiac, joyously completing his whirlwind journey as he took his first triumphant steps onto mainland Antarctica.

“It was my Olympic moment, yet there was no medal ceremony, no cheering crowd and nobody but myself to share in the glory,” he wrote. “I would not have had it any other way.”

DOING IT SOLO

While Sjoholm made many friends along the way, his commitment to realizing his ambitious travel goal solo is commendable. When asked what he would say to someone who wants to travel solo for the first time, he said: “You don’t know what you’re capable of until you try. …

I simply say: ‘Go.’ It doesn’t have to be a grand adventure like mine. Start small.”

Picking up a hobby while going solo can help, too. For Sjoholm, it was photography.

“I like to joke that there’s only one lens for a reason,” he said. “(Photography) gave me a sense of purpose while exploring new destinations. It wasn’t about capturing something revolutionary or showing off

incredible technical skill—it was about being present.”

“My very first day with my new camera in tow was in San Juan, Puerto Rico … I spotted a man in Plaza de Armas, surrounded by pigeons as he sat on the edge of the fountain,” Sjoholm said. “Unsure of the ‘rules’ of street photography, I approached him, lifted my camera slightly to signal a request, and he gave me the faintest nod. I took a few steps back, snapped one photo, and then quickly rushed away. His small act of kindness in allowing me to take his picture—and the rush of adrenaline I felt from approaching a stranger—was the spark that ignited the fire.”

AFTER THE ADVENTURE Now, with priceless global experience under his belt, it’s no surprise Sjoholm has found himself a new face in the travel industry. “After my travels, an online acquaintance reached out about becoming a travel advisor,” he said. “I worked with a wonderful travel agent to plan my 2023 trips, so I understood the value of having someone guide you through the process. vaxvacationaccess.com/the-compass

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“The Lucky Shot” was captured in Hoi An, Vietnam, and is Sjoholm’s favorite photo from his travels.

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Sjoholm poses by the scenic Geiranger Fjord in Norway.

… Many of my former mortgage clients have since become travel clients. They trusted me with financing their homes, and now they trust me with their vacations.”

As we enter 2026, Sjoholm continues to “fill his bucket” by keeping up with the people he’s met across the globe. “Over the past three years, I’ve spent much of my life on cruise ships and developed what I call my ‘cruise family,’” he said. “We plan sailings together, meet up in ports, and even visit one another’s homes. I’ve shared coffees in quiet cafés around the world with friends I met at sea. That bond—rooted in our shared love of travel—is incredibly unique. They understand the ‘travel addiction’ and support my lifestyle and business wholeheartedly. To them, as well as to my lifelong friends and family (my ‘cheerleaders’), I am endlessly grateful.”

Sjoholm will always remember what he achieved in 2023 fondly, but he says the quest truly began in 2012 when he was tasked with creating a vision board. Unsurprisingly, travel was a central theme. “It’s remarkable how many of the destinations and life experiences I’ve since checked off were on that board more than a decade ago,” he said. “When you have a clear vision and defined goals, it becomes easier to align the rest of your life to achieve them.

My catalyst was a single question—‘Would you go?’—and when the opportunity came, I grabbed it by the horns. My life is better because of that choice. Dreams don’t have to happen all at once, … but taking steps and keeping your vision clear is essential to achieving more than you ever thought was possible.”

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Vibrant red lanterns hang in San Francisco’s lively Chinatown neighborhood.

COLE’S CONTINENT FAVORITES

• Coffee Shop – Kiln Coffee, Grand Junction, Colorado: A large latte (sometimes with their homemade vanilla syrup). It’s my hometown favorite.

• Hotel – Marina Bay Sands, Singapore: The SkyPark and infinity pool atop the 57th floor had been on my radar for years … The resort exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to returning to experience more of its amenities.

• Animal Encounter – Antarctica: Watching humpback whales feed using their bubble-net technique just off the port side of our cruise ship in Antarctica felt like a scene straight out of National Geographic. Majestic, playful and completely unforgettable.

• Proudest Photograph – “The Lucky Shot”: Without a doubt, it’s one I captured in Hoi An, Vietnam, which I’ve called “The Lucky Shot.” After a brief afternoon shower, the reflection perfectly illuminated the wet pavement, creating a moment that felt almost magical.

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A wheelchair user enjoys the beauty of South America’s powerful Iguazu Falls.

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Travelers can famously snap photos of “Hobbit holes” when they visit the town of Matamata in New Zealand.

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Literary Tourism Brings

Books to Life READERS ARE TURNING PAGES INTO VACATIONS, AND THESE DESTINATIONS ARE AT THE TOP OF THEIR LISTS. W O R D S / J E N NA B U E G E

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The Globe Theatre in London is associated with William Shakespeare.

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to the Internet to talk about their rekindled love for turning pages. From “romantasy” — the combination of romance and fantasy — to thrillers and beyond, the ongoing reading craze has been so influential that the Association of American Publishers officially acknowledged it in 2024, stating that the group enjoyed an 18% jump in revenue sales across all categories YOY in comparison to 2023.

As their “to be read (TBR)” lists continue growing, so do bookworms’ aspirations to experience the pastime in new ways. In fact, according to 2025 research from Eventbrite, an American live events marketplace and website, events surrounding hobbies and interests are forging strong communities in real life, with the company citing “Read and

Run Chicago,” a book-slash-running club, as a prime example of the movement in its TRNDS 2025 report.

People are looking to travel to take their recreational reading to the next level, too.

Luckily, the industry has an aptly named niche to fit the bill: literary tourism Appropriately something of a “choose your own adventure” style of travel, literary tourism might mean heading to places that mirror the descriptions found between the pages of beloved titles, or it can mean visiting real-life destinations and attractions with a well-honed bookish past — or present. It’s an exciting prospect, and an unforgettable way for avid readers to blur the lines between fiction and reality.

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rom Labubu, a line of ultra-popular collectible plush toys, to “delulu,” a modern slang word for “delusional,” social media can play a big role in shaping today’s trends and behaviors.

And, with the rise of niche communities like “BookTok” and “Bookstagram,” it’s become evident that apps and online spaces are encouraging people to return to one of humanity’s most time-honored hobbies: reading awesome books.

Whether they’re reaching for an e-reader, audiobook or classic paperback, reading is officially cool again — to which unwavering bibliophiles might counter, “when was it ever not?” Millions of people are flocking

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A NOD TO THE CLASSICS When discussing literary tourism, where better to start than with the classics?

Literary classics, that is. From Shakespeare and Dickens to Hemingway and Conan Doyle, each of these renowned authors has ties to destinations across the pond that make for an excellent source of travel inspiration for readers. Whether they dream of spending an afternoon walking the “Alice in Wonderland” themed trail in Wales, catching a show at The Globe Theatre in London, exploring Jane Austen’s childhood stomping grounds in England or embarking 76

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Above: Duke Humfrey’s Library; Right: Hay-onWye, a Welsh market town, is home to over 30 unique bookstores.

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PHOTO BY BODLEIAN LIBRARIES COURTESY OF EXPERIENCE OXFORDSHIRE WOZZIE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM;

on a train journey to Oxford, the former home of literary icons J.R.R. Tolkien, Lewis Carroll and C.S. Lewis, Great Britain, and Europe at large, present seemingly endless opportunities to interact with celebrated writing around every corner.

While there are many transatlantic destinations and attractions that are certain to pique book lovers’ interests, some are worthy of a shoutout all their own. Take for instance Hay-on-Wye, a tiny Welsh market town that’s earned the nickname “The Town of Books” thanks to the 30+ unique bookshops that line its charming streets.

Dating to the Middle Ages, Hay-on-Wye became the “World’s First Book Town” in the 1960s and remains a utopia for readers today, as visitors can spend hours on end browsing shelves in search of rare finds, including secondhand and antiquarian titles.

“Shopping in Hay-on-Wye is fun,” said Cathryn Summerhayes, a literary agent based in London, on the Visit Wales website.

“Of course, the town is famed for its many bookshops. Most people talk about the beautifully restored Richard Booth’s Books, but some of the smaller businesses are worth a mention, too. Stella & Rose’s Books specialises in rare and out-of-print children’s books and is a wonderful place to buy gifts or just to wallow in nostalgia. Also hard to resist is Murder and Mayhem, the crime and horror bookshop, with two floors of classic detective and mystery novels.”

Another fascinating spot for bibliophiles is the Bodleian Libraries in Oxfordshire, England, a mind-blowing collection of 20+ libraries housing 13 million+ printed items — including a copy of every book published in the United Kingdom — on the University of Oxford campus. The sheer amount of material is almost unfathomable, and travelers can catch a glimpse of the impressive assemblage for themselves when they tour the libraries which are open to visitors seven days a week.

“The Bodleian Libraries offer an unforgettable experience for anyone passionate about history, literature, or architecture,” said Hayley Beer-Gamage, CEO of Experience Oxfordshire, the lead destination partner for the region. “As one of Europe’s oldest libraries, its stunning buildings and world-class collections — including original manuscripts by Shakespeare, Tolkien, Shelley, and Austen

— reflect over 400 years of academic heritage.

With iconic film locations like the Radcliffe Camera and Duke Humfrey’s Library, and a year-round programme of guided tours and exhibitions, it’s a unique way to explore the heart of Oxford’s cultural legacy.”

WHERE FICTION COMES ALIVE “Fiction is not just a pastime—it’s a fundamental way in which we learn, empathize, and make sense of the world,” said Aditi Subramaniam, Ph.D., in an article in Psychology Today. “We live in a time of heightened stress, shrinking attention spans, and digital distractions. Amid this, fiction offers a unique form of engagement—one that slows us down, deepens our capacity for empathy, and fosters resilience.”

It’s true that anyone who’s read a powerful work of fiction can attest to how impactful the top-level genre can be. And, in 2025, the category of literature remains ever popular with big-name works like “Sunrise the Reaping” by Suzanne Collins, “Onyx Storm”

by Rebecca Yarros and “The Housemaid”

by Freida McFadden topping the bestseller charts, according to Publishers Weekly.

With how popular fiction is, it’s no surprise destinations and attractions with connections to prevailing works are eager to capitalize on their success through guided tours and DIY itineraries — and book lovers are here for it! Whether readers compile a personal list of “destination dupes” for places described in treasured fantastical lands or aspire to explore landmarks and sights made famous by film adaptations of their favorite paperbacks, travel helps bring what was once purely imaginary to life.

Fantasy In the fantasy realm, contemporary classics like “Harry Potter,” “The Lord of the Rings” and “Twilight” are no strangers to bookworms’ vacation wish lists, presenting plenty of opportunities for travel crossover in Britain, New Zealand and Washington state, respectively. From snapping photos in front of Hobbit holes and marveling at the real “Mount Doom” in New Zealand to spending the night at Bella Swan’s house in Forks, WA, and exploring the various filming sites featured in the “Harry Potter” film franchise across the UK, readers can do it all.

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Of course, for modern fantasy fans, it’s all about “A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR),” a fictional saga accounting for 75 million copies sold worldwide as of 2025, according to author Sarah J. Mass. A tale of war, whimsical worlds and hunky, bloodthirsty fairies, the ACOTAR books have diehard fans daydreaming of vacations inspired by their realms, including “Prythian,” which is rumored to resemble Britain; “Hybern,” aka Ireland; and “Cretea,” which fans theorize is the series’ version of modern Greece.

Osaka Castle played an important role in James Clavell’s beloved novel “Shōgun.”

Science Fiction While the coastal city of Florence, Oregon, did, indeed, inspire Frank Herbert to pen his cult classic science fiction novel, “Dune,” travelers won’t need to worry about attracting any gargantuan sandworms should they choose to visit this unique destination. The former site of a looming “dune invasion,” Herbert’s vision for the otherworldly epic began taking shape after he was sent to report on the encroaching sand threat in the 1950s. Luckily, the story had a happy ending as, while it seemed the unyielding grains would take everything in their path, the U.S. Soil Conservation Service swooped in to save the day with a historic terraforming project, confining their movements. Today, those same restless sands are part of Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, North America’s largest coastal dunes, and the closest it gets to visiting Arrakis — “Dune’s” desert planet — as Herbert envisioned it.

A long-standing favorite among historical fiction enthusiasts, James Clavell’s “Shōgun” was a smash hit from the start, instantly transporting readers to the Land of the Samurai and accounting for millions of copies sold since its debut in 1975. In addition to the book’s smashing success with the public, the story inspired several TV shows, including the recent release of FX’s “Shōgun” in 2024.

As far as travel goes, the novel laid the groundwork for a variety of guided tours and DIY itineraries, taking vacationers to some of Japan’s top sights like Osaka Castle with its striking architecture and sprawling gardens, the Izu Peninsula with its fabulous hot springs and dramatic landscapes, Mt. Omuro and Mt. Fuji, two of the country’s most famed natural attractions, and Sekigahara, the historic battle site where the future of Japan was decided on October 21, 1600.

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Historical Fiction

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BREAKOUT SESSION

INDUSTRY CHATTER ON A TOPIC THAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU

TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS SHARE WHAT THEIR ULTIMATE NO-LIMITS VACATION WOULD BE IF MONEY WERE NO OBJECT.

DANA LEWIS, OWNER + FOUNDER OF DWD TRAVEL & DESTINATION WEDDINGS

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“On first thought, my answer revolved around an African Safari with my family.

But, I’m already working on making that happen. So, I’m redirecting to the Orient Express! The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express looks absolutely incredible! I’d do both the routes, Istanbul to Paris and Paris to Venice, and see it all. I’d travel first class, experiencing modern luxury. Then board the train to experience the opulence and nostalgia of days gone by. Of course, I’d want to bring my family and/or friends along, because what is travel if you don’t have someone to share it with.”

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“Unique experiences with nature are my favorite vacation activity. If money were no object, I would take a family vacation to Rwanda so I could see my favorite animal, gorillas, in their natural habitat. I would love to stay in a luxury treehouse at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and trek into the forest with expert guides to visit gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park. Of course, since the sky’s the limit, we would then hop over to Kenya, Tanzania or South Africa to see the Big Five on safari. Before heading home, we’ll enjoy a luxury beach resort in the Seychelles. Hey, a girl can dream, right?!”

CAREY DRISCOLL, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER AT VAX VACATIONACCESS travel by private yacht along coasts, hop by helicopter between cities, and have a luxury driver on standby. I want doors opened that aren’t open to the public: hidden courtyards, closed galleries, even the Vatican’s secret passageway, with a chance to meet the Pope. At night, I’d stay as a guest in private castles or villas; if that’s not possible, I’d choose the very best each destination offers.”

TAMMY LEVENT, PRESIDENT OF ELITE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT GROUP

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xpedition to the South Pole, and I would love to travel with Hurtigruten Expeditions. The unexplored area of our beautiful planet and the expedition to witness one of the most beautiful creations of the North and South Pole is a huge attraction to me.

The penguins, the seals, the blue whales, etc. are rare to see and will give me an opportunity to live life to the fullest, to experience a non-conventional way to travel. This will be a true appreciation of our lovely nature.”

VIKAS MALHOTRA, TRAVEL EXPERT AT ITRAVEL2000, A DIVISION OF RED LABEL VACATIONS INC.

“M

y no-limits journey would encapsulate my love for faith, nature and adventure. With my family,

I would begin journeying through the Holy Land with a biblical historian and archaeologist, visiting meaningful sites and running the epic Dead Sea Half Marathon. Then, we would set sail on a superyacht cruise throughout the Mediterranean exploring hidden coastal gems, focusing on rich flavors, jumping in the ocean every chance we could, and enjoying each opportunity to interact with locals.”

ABIGAIL M. SCHIMKE, LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR AT GRAND TRAVERSE TRAVEL, AN AFFLUENT TRAVELER COLLECTION AFFILIATE

“M

y ultimate no-limits vacation would be a privately escorted journey across Europe, with history, food, and culture front and center. I’d

“A

s an adventure traveler, I’m always seeking out of the box experiences, so if money were no object, I’d choose the Ultimate Antarctica journey with luxury tour company White Desert Antarctica.

They are the only company to fly private charters from Cape Town, South Africa, to the most remote continent on Earth, which allows travelers to skip the nauseating waves of the Drake Passage that cruise ships are required to traverse. This grand adventure, starting at $2 million perperson, includes exploring ice caves, submarine dives, helicopter tours, emperor penguin encounters and a once-in-a-lifetime expedition to the Geographic South Pole.”

MEAGAN NORTON, FOUNDER AND OWNER OF MOMENTS BY MEAGAN ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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DESTINATION NEXT

EMBRACE YOUR PLAYFUL SIDE IN TOKYO This iconic Japanese city is wonderfully eccentric.

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A photo of the Tokyo skyline featuring the Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji

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as a hub for anime and gaming, unmistakable fashion sense and bizarre accommodations.

A metropolis with a knack for playfulness and creativity, visitors come to Tokyo to let their imaginations run wild. Whether that means embracing the things they loved when they were young like Pokémon and Hello Kitty, searching for anything and everything kawaii — the Japanese word for “cute” — or finding themselves in situations that feel like something straight out of an eccentric

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Sci-Fi film, the former samurai capital has a reputation for seamlessly fusing the whimsical and the mundane, adding flair to the everyday and making life just a little more fun.

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hotel topped by a life-sized Godzilla, cafes where the staff is fully composed of robots, rainbow-colored cotton candy that’s as big as your head … no, you’re not waking up from a fantastical fever dream, you’re just in Tokyo. Bright, bustling and futuristic, this Japanese city is unlike anywhere else in the world. Its fascinating nature places it atop many vacationers’ wish lists thanks to its themed restaurants, status

UNCOMMON DINING Have you ever had a bowl of Ramen so delicious it deserved an award? In Tokyo, a handful of restaurants are serving up renditions of the classic noodle dish that are so good they’ve been honored with a Michelin-star vaxvacationaccess.com/the-compass

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adventures in Tokyo. From 3D latte art that looks like your favorite cartoon character and perfectly scooped and swirled ice cream cones to rainbow everything (grilled cheese, crepes and more) and too-cute-to-eat donuts, the creations coming out of this world-class city are so precious travelers will (almost) feel guilty devouring them whole.

TOP: CHARMEKISSME/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; BOTTOM:NED SNOWMAN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Desserts shaped like Totoro, a character from a popular Japanese animated fantasy film

Henna na Hotel Tokyo Nishikasai has multilingual dinosaur robots for front desk workers.

rating. Picture taking your taste buds on a journey as you slurp perfectly cooked wheat noodles soaked in the familiar umami-flavored broth, fresh meat and seafood making the dish all the heartier, while satisfying add-ons like Nori, fish cakes, mushrooms and more act as the cherry on top.

The Ramen in this city is some of the best — whether you splurge for the most highly-rated spot or a hole in the wall — but, as we hinted at before, Tokyo is truly known for its unusual

dining experiences, the most curious of which include intriguing concepts like maid cafes, muscle girl bars, monster pop-up cafes and robot-operated establishments. The experiences are the ultimate form of escapism, transporting guests to an alternate reality more extraordinary than our own — at least until the check comes.

Home to some of the most charming food in all the land, those in search of a social media-ready moment will find no shortage of opportunities to document their culinary

FUN AND GAMES A favorite destination among fans of anime, manga and video games, Tokyo has a bevy of museums, bookstores, shops and even entire neighborhoods dedicated to the popular pastimes. Akihabara Electric Town is a district that’s widely considered the nexus for Japanese “otaku” — a person with a deep interest in a hobby or subject — culture with its surplus of anime, manga and game stores as well as electronics retailers.

Other highlights for gamers and otaku visiting Tokyo include Shibuya Parco, a shopping mall with a Nintendo shop, Pokémon Center, Jump Shop and Capcom Store; DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, an entertainment complex that touts a massive 65-foot-tall Gundam figurine; the Ghibli Museum; Suginami Animation Museum; Tokyo Anime Center; the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum; and more.

Of all the fictional characters that come to life in this town, Mario is sure to be a name visitors are familiar with. And if they’ve ever wanted to spend a day in the Nintendo hero’s shoes, Tokyo is the place to do it, as the friendly animated plumber doubles as a persona travelers can adopt when they sign up for a Go Kart racing tour through the city streets — costumes and all. While pesky red shells and rogue banana peels are unlikely to make an appearance on the “racecourse,” this unique experience is one travelers will never forget.

FUTURISTIC ENCOUNTERS For a hotel check-in experience that’s anything but prehistoric, vacationers can head to Henn na Hotel Tokyo Nishikasai, where they’ll find a friendly face waiting for them at the reception desk in the form of a multilingual dinosaur robot. Yup, you read that right. Designed to handle front desk duties in a safe and secure manner, the fantastical tech showcased at this “Dinosaur Robot Hotel” will have visitors feeling like they stepped back in time.

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YESTERDAY’S NEWS

WELCOME TO THE COMMUNITY VAX VacationAccess recently introduced this new area for advisors to connect.

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increasing value they put on the relationships with their peers,” said Sarah Kneisler, director of marketing and operations at VAX VacationAccess. “With our simple promise of enabling travel advisor success, we knew we needed to help provide a way to further enable these peer relationships within our travel marketplace.”

The Community is a place for new and experienced advisors to engage with not only their peers but also their brand partners.

Need help with a recommendation for a client? Want to offer expert advice to a new advisor? Looking for insight on a specific

room category at a resort? Head to the Community to find what you need.

Current categories included in the Community are Peer Insights, Advisor Announcements, Educational Opportunities and New to the Industry, with more to come in the future. Advisors can use these forums to ask questions, share tips and inspire and support each other.

The vision for this platform has been in the works for a while, and it only made sense to have it located where advisors are already logged in on a regular basis.

“It’s a place travel advisors are already

BRANISLAV NENIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

hile travel advisors have tons of resources in this industry (webinars, specialist courses, BDMs, etc.), one of the go-to ways to gain new intel is by networking with fellow travel advisors.

VAX VacationAccess is aware of the wealth of knowledge only an advisor can acquire, and we wanted to give you a platform to be able to share these insights with your peers.

Enter: the Community.

“The heart of our industry is relationships, and over the years we’ve watched how travel advisors engage with each other and the

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spending time, a secure location behind a login and a professional environment to host their discussions,” Kneisler said.

“We’ve had this vision of making our travel marketplace a more engaging community for a long time, and we’re thrilled to finally bring that to life.”

The Community is in the early stages, and there are plans to grow this space as advisors continue letting us know what they need. As conversations expand and new categories are added, we hope it becomes a go-to resource for all advisors to utilize.

“We’re still building momentum and plan to continue kicking off new conversations and topics, and we hope to see you all engage,” Kneisler said. “Our network of more than 220,000 advisors now has one more spot to propel the success of their small businesses that power our industry.”

WHERE TO FIND THE COMMUNITY Visit www.vaxvacationaccess.com/ community or navigate to Community & Resources in VAX’s main menu and choose Community from the dropdown.

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ASK MAXWELL

OUR BELOVED FLIPPERED FRIEND ANSWERS YOUR VAX QUESTIONS.

YOU ASKED: I have a customer who wants to travel leaving from their home city, but when they fly home, they would like to return somewhere other than their home city. Can you book this on VAX? MAXWELL SAYS: Travelers are taking more customized trips and realize you can help, which means we’re getting this question a lot more often these days. We’re happy to say YES, you can book this type of trip in VAX. To do so, go to New Reservation in the top navigation bar and open the Advanced Search reservation tool. Select Multiple destinations as the vacation type, then choose your preferred supplier and destination region.

For Destination #1, enter the client’s main destination, the number of nights they’ll stay and whether they need a hotel or rental car.

For Destination #2, enter the same

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destination city as Destination #1, set the number of nights to zero and uncheck flights, rental car and hotel.

Finally, in the Return flight panel, designate the city your client wants to fly back into instead of their original departure city and click Search.

YOU ASKED: I’ve noticed an increase in calls from the advisors in my agency saying their account is locked. Is there a reason so many of my advisors are reaching out to regain their access?

MAXWELL SAYS: We understand you may be hearing more frequently from advisors in your agency who need to regain access to VAX. While we know this takes time for your staff to manage, these updates are part of VAX’s commitment to meeting the highest levels of security and protecting your agency.

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In July, VAX implemented enhanced security protocols that apply to all advisors using the site: • Account lockouts: Advisor credentials will automatically lock if the account is inactive for 90 days. Advisors will be directed to their Site Manager, who can easily unlock the account with a single click. Resources for managing advisor accounts can be found at vaxvacationaccess.com/educationcontainer/Vax-Training-Education/ manage-agents-and-security-access.

• Password requirements: Advisor passwords must now be at least 12 characters long. Advisors will encounter this change the next time their password expires or if they reset it.

Have a question for Maxwell? Send it to us at training@vaxvacationaccess.com and we’ll send it his way. Then check out the next issue of The Compass magazine to see if he answered it. vaxvacationaccess.com/the-compass

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THE COMPASS WORD SEARCH

BUCKET LIST DESTINATIONS

Machu Picchu

Victoria Falls

Singapore

Galapagos Islands

Mauritius

Egypt

Antarctica

Athens

Zanzibar

Amazon rainforest

Morocco

Madagascar

Mount Everest

Dubai

Yellowstone

Patagonia

Costa Rica

Xi’an

Cape Town

Scottish Highlands

Banff National Park

Kyoto

Find and circle each of the words from the list below. Words may appear horizontally, vertically or diagonally, but forwards only.

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ONE FOR THE ROAD

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YONGKIET JITWATTANATAM/S

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

— Eleanor Roosevelt

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Travel Inspo Tool Kit Now updated with fresh content!

Find content for: Facebook | Instagram | X | Everything!

Power your agency’s social media and content marketing with ready-made social media images, memes and articles.

Turn to VAX’s Travel Inspo Tool Kit to get the content you need to make those connections.

This is your go-to spot to inspire future travels or to remind clients of the value of using a travel advisor.

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Find it all in one place.

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