Premium Business Summit to Boost Global Travel Industry as Thousands of International Visitors Set Sail Aboard Valiant Lady in Miami

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The 2024 Premium Business Summit is set to occur from October 16 to 20 aboard Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady in Miami, Florida. Hosted by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), the summit will gather key figures from the travel sector, including representatives from both corporate and leisure agencies, offering attendees valuable educational sessions and networking opportunities.

What’s on the Agenda

We’re thrilled to feature storytelling expert Erik Dominguez, who will lead three transformative sessions designed to reshape your leadership style and elevate your client interactions.

These sessions include:

1. The Brain on Stories: Why We Must Tell Tales
   Uncover the science behind storytelling and how it influences decision-making. Learn to engage audiences and strengthen client connections with impactful narratives.
2. Crafting Compelling Narratives: The 7S Storytelling Model©
   Dive into Erik’s proprietary storytelling method, perfecting your ability to craft powerful and memorable stories. This session will help you create engaging travel stories tailored to various audiences.
3. The Four Stories Every Organization Needs
   Explore the key narratives every business should master: identity, vision, value, and change. Enhance your organization’s message and foster deeper relationships with stakeholders.

Additional Highlights at the Premium Business Summit:

• AI’s Ethical Challenges with Sam Hilgendorf, CIO, Fox World Travel
• Navigating AI for Business Leaders featuring Dr. Jill Schiefelbein, Chief Experience Officer, Render
• 5 Myths of Accessible Travel & The Path Forward led by John Sage, CEO, Sage Inclusion
• Evolving Travel Risk & Duty of Care with Bruce McIndoe, President, McIndoe Risk Advisory LLC
• Protecting Your Agency: Fraud Prevention Tactics with Jeannine Hankinson, Managing Director, User Experience, ARC; Bruce McIndoe, and Sam Hilgendorf
• Capitol Hill Insights presented by Jessie Klement, VP of Advocacy, ASTA
• The Overtourism Dilemma: Building a Sustainable Future panel moderated by Marc Casto, CEO, MVC Solutions, featuring Julie Higgins (Uniworld Boutique River Cruises), Greg Takehara (Tourism Cares), and John Diorio (Virgin Voyages)
• The Licensing Debate: Regulation vs. Growth moderated by Peter Lobasso, Senior VP & General Counsel, ASTA, with panelists Chris Dane (Hickory Global Partners) and Eric Maryanov (All-Travel)

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

• 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  Welcome Reception & Registration
  Location: Athletic Club
  Kick off ASTA’s Premium Business Summit by picking up your attendee badge and enjoying drinks as we set sail from Miami.
  Reception Sponsored By: Virgin Voyages
  Guest Speaker: John Diorio, Vice President, North American Sales at Virgin Voyages
• 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  Dinner on Own
  Enjoy dinner at one of the Valiant Lady’s restaurants. Be sure to book in advance using the Virgin Voyages mobile app, or explore walk-up options.

Thursday, October 17, 2024

• 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
  Breakfast on Own
• 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Location: The Red Room
  Session: The Brain on Stories: Why We Must Tell Tales
  Speaker: Erik Dominguez, Storytelling Expert
  Learn the science of storytelling and how it can enhance leadership and client engagement.
• 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Session: AI Beyond Boundaries: Navigating the Social and Ethical Frontiers of AI
  Speaker: Sam Hilgendorf, Chief Information Officer, Fox World Travel
  Explore how generative AI impacts the world, both positively and negatively, and how to leverage it as a business leader.
• 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Session: Navigating the AI Landscape: What You Need to Know as a Business Leader
  Speaker: Jill Schiefelbein, Chief Experience Officer, Render
  Understand how to strategically approach AI for business growth and avoid common pitfalls.
  Sponsored By: AIG Travel, Delta Air Lines/Delta Vacations, Enterprise, Hertz, Marriott, MSC Cruises, Sandals, Virgin Voyages
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
  Maximizing Your Time Onstage
  Location: Extra Virgin
  Speaker: Erik Dominguez
  This session will focus on storytelling techniques to enhance presentations, with live coaching examples.
• 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  Afternoon on Own/ASTA Meetups at Sea
• Ladies Tea Time & Tarot (1 PM)
• Pickup Basketball with ASTA (1:30 PM)
• ASTA Cabanas by the Pool (12-4 PM)
• Group Fitness Cycle Class (2 PM)
• 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  YPS Meetup
  Location: Loose Cannon
• 5:45 PM – 8:00 PM
  ASTA Evening Event
  Location: Razzle Dazzle
  Join us for food, drinks, and great company to kick off Scarlet Night. Don’t forget to wear red!
• 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  Scarlet Night Party
  Location: Pool Deck
  Immerse yourself in Virgin Voyages’ signature event and dance the night away.

Friday, October 18, 2024

• 7:00 AM – 8:45 AM
  CAC Meeting
  Location: Extra Virgin
  Coffee, tea, and pastries available.
• 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM
  Breakfast on Own
• 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Location: The Red Room
  Session: Crafting Compelling Narratives: The 7S Storytelling Model
  Speaker: Erik Dominguez
  Master the seven essential elements of storytelling to create engaging and memorable travel narratives.
• 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Session: The Overtourism Dilemma: Creating a Balanced Future of Travel
  Speakers: Marc Casto, Julie Higgins, Greg Takehara, John Diorio
  Explore solutions for managing overtourism and promoting sustainable travel practices.
• 9:45 AM – 10:00 AM
  Presentation of the 2024 ASTA Green Partner in Travel Award
  Location: The Red Room
• 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Session: 5 Myths of Accessible Travel & The Path Forward for Travel Advisors
  Speaker: John Sage
  Gain insights into the accessible travel market and how to tap into this significant untapped demographic.
• 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Session: Shielding Your Travel Agency: Cutting-Edge Fraud Prevention Tactics
  Led by: Robbi Hamada, Jeannine Hankinson, Bruce McIndoe, Sam Hilgendorf
  Learn how to protect your agency from emerging fraud threats.
• 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  Afternoon on Own in Key West
  Location: Key West
  Explore the local attractions at your leisure.
• 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  Dinner on Own
  Book in advance using the Virgin Voyages mobile app.
• 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM
  ASTA Nightcap Networking
  Location: On the Rocks
  Unwind with cocktails and conversation after dinner.

Saturday, October 19, 2024

• 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM
  Breakfast on Own
• 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Location: The Red Room
  Session 1: ASTA Advocacy Update
  Speaker: Jessica Klement
  Get the latest updates on key legislative issues affecting the travel industry. Session 2: The Four Stories Every Organization Needs
  Speaker: Erik Dominguez
  Learn how to craft essential narratives—identity, vision, value, and change—that define your organization’s mission and direction.
• 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
  Educational Content and Programming
  Debate: The Licensing Dilemma – Essential Oversight or Hindrance to Growth?
  Speakers: Chris Dane, Eric Maryanov
  Moderated by: Peter Lobasso
  Join a spirited debate on whether travel advisors should be required to hold a professional license.
• 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  Afternoon on Own
  Location: Bimini Beach Club
  Enjoy free time to explore Bimini.
• 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  Bimini Beach Party Closing Event
  Location: Bimini Beach Club
• 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  Dinner on Own
• 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  ASTA Nightcap Networking
  Location: On the Rocks

Sunday, October 20, 2024

• 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  Disembark in Miami, Florida

Meet The Speakers

Zane Kerby
President & CEO – ASTA
Zane Kerby serves as the president and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), where he oversees internal and external operations and serves as the primary spokesperson for the organization. With a rich background from his tenure at the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), Kerby is a seasoned leader with extensive experience in the travel industry. He holds an MBA from the University of Maryland and a BA from Brigham Young University.

Erik Dominguez
Communication and Confidence Expert – Speak Up Stories
Erik Dominguez is a speaking and communication coach who has spent over 25 years helping individuals craft powerful narratives and speak confidently. With degrees in English Literature, Instructional Design, and Strategic Communication, along with a certification from the National Speech and Debate Association, Erik specializes in using storytelling as a tool to communicate effectively and inspire others.

Jessica Klement
Vice President, Advocacy – ASTA
Jessica Klement leads ASTA’s advocacy efforts, representing the travel agency community at various levels of government. A political strategist, Klement previously worked on Capitol Hill and served in senior roles at the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE). She holds degrees in Political Science and Finance from Marquette University.

Peter Lobasso
Senior Vice President & General Counsel – ASTA
Peter Lobasso has served as ASTA’s General Counsel since 2015. With over two decades of legal experience, Lobasso specializes in corporate law, contracts, intellectual property, and more. He holds a BA in Political Science from the University of Central Florida and a JD from Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center.

Alvin Adriano
Director, Industry Affairs – ASTA
Alvin Adriano is ASTA’s Director of Industry Affairs, responsible for spearheading the organization’s industry relations and education initiatives. He previously served as CEO of a multi-million-dollar travel agency and has been recognized as one of the travel industry’s rising stars. Adriano is passionate about leadership development and business culture.

Eric Maryanov
President – All-Travel
Eric Maryanov is the founder and president of All-Travel, a thriving travel agency established in 1984. A Certified Travel Counselor and Signature Travel Expert, Maryanov has held various leadership roles in the travel industry, including on ASTA’s National Board of Directors. He is also the president of TAMS, a travel agency consultancy group.

Jeannine Hankinson
Managing Director, Operations & Customer Experience – ARC
Jeannine Hankinson has spent nearly 30 years at the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), where she manages operations and customer experience. Hankinson is a key leader in ARC’s efforts to combat fraud and safeguard the integrity of the travel industry, focusing on educating agents and implementing security strategies.

Sam Hilgendorf
Chief Information Officer – Fox World Travel
As CIO of Fox World Travel, Sam Hilgendorf oversees the company’s technology portfolio, including IT, business intelligence, and product development. Hilgendorf has been recognized for his technological innovations, receiving the Wisconsin CIO of the Year award in 2023. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Music from Concordia University Wisconsin.

Christopher J. Dane
President and Managing Partner – Hickory Global Partners, LLC
Chris Dane has been in the travel industry for over five decades, currently leading Hickory Global Partners. A pioneer in the corporate travel sector, Dane has held various executive roles and has served on multiple industry advisory boards. He is also a Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE).

John Diorio
Vice President, North American Sales – Virgin Voyages
With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, John Diorio leads sales and support for Virgin Voyages in North America. Prior to joining Virgin Voyages, he held senior leadership roles at Expedia Group and The Mark Travel Corporation. Diorio is also actively involved in industry committees such as ASTA and CLIA.

Paul McGannon
Global Account Executive, Travel Industry – Marriott International
Paul McGannon manages travel agency partnerships for Marriott International in several regions, including the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. With over 15 years in the hospitality industry, McGannon is dedicated to strengthening Marriott’s relationships with its travel partners.

Bruce McIndoe
President – McIndoe Risk Advisory LLC
Bruce McIndoe is a leading figure in the risk management and travel security sectors. As the founder of iJET, now known as WorldAware, McIndoe developed one of the top travel risk management platforms. He holds degrees in Physics and Computer Science and has been recognized by Business Travel News for his industry influence.

Marc Casto
Chief Executive Officer – MVC Solutions
Marc Casto is the CEO of MVC Solutions and Casto Travel Philippines, where he leads business process outsourcing for the managed travel industry. A former president at Flight Centre Travel Group, Casto is a recognized leader in leisure travel and is actively engaged in multiple industry boards.

Robbi Jumaa Hamida
Senior Vice President – Nexion Travel Group
With 30 years of experience in the travel industry, Robbi Hamida oversees operations at Nexion Travel Group. His extensive knowledge spans both customer-facing and behind-the-scenes business operations. Hamida is involved in numerous travel industry committees and boards.

Dr. Jill Schiefelbein
Chief Experience Officer – Render
Dr. Jill Schiefelbein is a communication strategist, award-winning business owner, and former academic. She helps businesses navigate the intersection of communication and technology. Schiefelbein holds a PhD in Communication and specializes in using AI to improve customer experiences.

John Sage
Chief Executive Officer – Sage Inclusion
John Sage is a pioneer in accessible travel, founding Sage Traveling and Accessible Travel Solutions, which cater to disabled travelers. Sage is also the CEO of Sage Inclusion, a consultancy that helps businesses succeed in the accessible travel market. He is a certified accessibility professional and an advocate for inclusive travel.

Greg Takehara
Chief Executive Officer – Tourism Cares
Greg Takehara leads Tourism Cares, a nonprofit organization focused on sustainable tourism. With over 35 years in the industry, Takehara has served in leadership roles across various travel organizations and is passionate about using tourism as a force for good.

Julie Higgins
Sustainability Officer and Director of Hotel Operations – Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Julie Higgins oversees hotel operations and sustainability initiatives for Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. With over 20 years of experience, Higgins is committed to implementing sustainable practices in the travel industry and was recently recognized with the U.S.T.O.A.’s Future Light of the Tour Industry award.

Travel Guide for ASTA Premium Business Summit 2024

Event Dates: October 16-20, 2024
Location: Aboard Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady, departing from Miami, Florida

1. Getting to Miami

Miami is easily accessible by air, road, and train, making it convenient for domestic and international attendees.

• Air Travel:
  Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary airport, offering numerous direct flights from across the globe. From the airport, it’s a 20-minute taxi or rideshare ride to the Port of Miami. Other nearby airports: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 40 minutes away by car, offering additional flight options.
• Ground Transportation:
  Taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), or shuttle services are readily available from both airports to the port. For local attendees, parking is available at the Port of Miami.

2. Boarding the Valiant Lady

The ASTA Premium Business Summit takes place aboard the Valiant Lady, Virgin Voyages’ luxury cruise ship.

• Check-In & Boarding:
  Boarding will begin on October 16 at 2:00 PM at the Port of Miami. Make sure to have your boarding pass (accessible through the Virgin Voyages app) and your travel documents ready.
  Pro Tip: Download the Virgin Voyages mobile app before departure to complete the check-in process and manage reservations.
• Required Documents:
  You’ll need a government-issued photo ID (passport recommended) and proof of event registration.

3. Accommodation

Your accommodation is onboard the Valiant Lady. Each cabin offers luxury amenities, including rain showers, mood lighting, and ocean views. Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship, allowing you to stay connected during the summit.

• Dining Reservations:
  The ship offers a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants like Extra Virgin and The Test Kitchen. Be sure to make your dinner reservations using the Virgin Voyages app as early as possible to secure your preferred dining times.

4. Event Venues Onboard

The main conference events, networking sessions, and workshops will take place in various locations onboard the Valiant Lady. Be sure to check the event schedule for specific venue details.

• The Red Room: This will host many of the educational sessions and panels.
• Extra Virgin: A key venue for smaller sessions, including the CAC Meeting.
• Razzle Dazzle: Join your fellow attendees for ASTA’s Evening Event here. Pro Tip: Use the Virgin Voyages app for real-time updates and event location changes.

5. Things to Do Onboard

When you’re not attending summit sessions, you can take advantage of the Valiant Lady’s numerous amenities, including:

• Fitness Classes: Stay active with cycling classes or enjoy the onboard gym.
• Spa & Wellness: Relax at the Redemption Spa or enjoy poolside cabanas.
• Scarlet Night Party: Don’t miss this signature Virgin Voyages event on October 17. Dress in red and be prepared to party!

6. Shore Excursions

The summit includes opportunities to explore two exciting ports:

• Key West, Florida (October 18):
  You’ll have the afternoon to explore historic Key West. Highlights include visiting Ernest Hemingway’s home, shopping on Duval Street, and trying the famous Key Lime pie.
• Bimini, Bahamas (October 19):
  Relax at Virgin Voyages’ exclusive Bimini Beach Club. Spend the day by the pool, enjoy water sports, or simply take in the tropical views. The closing party will be held at the beach club.

7. Packing Essentials

Here’s what to pack for a comfortable and productive event:

• Business Attire: Pack professional attire for conference sessions.
• Casual Outfits: Bring casual clothing for leisure time and excursions.
• Red Outfit: Don’t forget to pack something red for the Scarlet Night Party!
• Swimwear: The ship has multiple pools, and you’ll want to enjoy the beach in Bimini.
• Comfortable Shoes: Perfect for exploring Key West and walking onboard. Pro Tip: Virgin Voyages has a no-tipping policy, so there’s no need to pack cash for gratuities.

8. Staying Connected

The ship offers high-speed Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected for work and personal needs. Download the Virgin Voyages app for event updates, dining reservations, and ship services.

9. Weather Considerations

Miami and the Bahamas are warm year-round. Expect temperatures to range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) in October. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended for excursions and outdoor activities.

10. Departure Information

• Disembarkation:
  On Sunday, October 20, disembarkation will begin at 7:00 AM in Miami. Be sure to have all your belongings packed the night before and follow the ship’s instructions for an efficient departure.
• Optional World Travel Expo Miami:
  ASTA Premium Members can extend their stay for the World Travel Expo Miami from October 21-23. Complimentary registration is available using code ASTAWTE.

As the ASTA Premium Business Summit 2024 comes to a close, attendees will leave with invaluable insights, strengthened industry connections, and renewed enthusiasm for the future of travel. From engaging sessions on AI and storytelling to vital discussions on sustainability and accessible travel, the summit provided a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today.

With unforgettable experiences aboard the Valiant Lady and visits to vibrant destinations like Key West and Bimini, this event not only fostered professional growth but also celebrated the spirit of travel and exploration. We look forward to seeing how these connections and knowledge will inspire the future of travel.