Unveil the Hidden Gems of the US and Alaska: Top Travel Advisors Discover Unbelievable Adventures!

Published on December 15, 2025

In the fast-paced world of travel, firsthand experience has become essential for success. Sell Your Way to the USA, an annual initiative for travel advisors, offers a chance for top industry professionals to expand their knowledge through immersive famil trips. These advisors are able to experience the United States like never before, gaining unique insights into some of the country’s most exciting destinations. In 2025, the program included trips to Nevada, Utah, Alaska, Washington, DC, Oklahoma, and Texas, with the guidance of leading industry partners such as Qantas, American Airlines, and Brand USA. This program not only rewards hard work but also enhances advisors’ abilities to better promote the U.S. as a prime travel destination.

Travel Advisors Gain Invaluable Knowledge

Fifteen travel advisors from Australia and New Zealand were selected to embark on this exciting journey. The trip was a reward for their exceptional sales performance with Qantas and American Airlines, as well as their successful completion of the USA Discovery Program badges. The advisors accumulated points based on their sales of U.S. airfares, land bookings, and participation in the program, with over $2.4 million in registered revenue and more than 1,300 USA Discovery Program badges completed.

The 2025 Sell Your Way to the USA program was a resounding success, offering travel professionals invaluable knowledge and experience to further promote U.S. destinations. The program reached new heights this year, bringing together six U.S. destinations and offering advisors the opportunity to engage with each location in meaningful ways. Corey Marshall, Director of Canuckiwi, emphasized that this initiative delivered outstanding results by strengthening the advisors’ expertise and boosting their confidence in selling U.S. travel experiences.

Washington, DC: A Hub of Culture and History

The journey kicked off in Washington, DC, a city rich in history, culture, and modern attractions. Bianca Douglas Watt, Clinton Griffiths, and Maree Sterling explored Washington’s neighborhoods, monuments, and culinary hotspots. These advisors immersed themselves in the city’s storied past by visiting landmarks such as the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. Their journey took them beyond the National Mall, discovering hidden gems like the Loudoun County Stone Tower Winery, and even experiencing the excitement of a Washington Capitals hockey game. Through these experiences, the advisors gained a deeper understanding of the city’s offerings, which they can now share with clients seeking a blend of history and vibrant urban life.

Grapevine, Texas & Oklahoma: A Deep Dive into Western Heritage

Next on the itinerary was Grapevine, Texas, and Oklahoma, where advisors explored both cultural and natural attractions. Advisors like Amanda Graham, Kathryn Yule, and Anthony Tuy embarked on a self-drive adventure from Grapevine, known for its charming Historic Main Street, to Oklahoma City, where they connected with local Indigenous culture and explored the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center. They also took a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and stayed at the renowned Gaylord Texan Resort. In Oklahoma, the group delved into the state’s Western heritage, experiencing outdoor adventures and learning more about the region’s rich cultural precincts. These hands-on experiences enhanced their understanding of both destinations as authentic, accessible options for travelers.

Nevada: Beyond the Bright Lights of Las Vegas

Nevada offered a different adventure for the travel advisors. The group, including Conrad Machado, Jodi Small, and Abbey Shannon, explored the state beyond its famous Las Vegas Strip. The advisors experienced Red Rock Canyon through e-biking, ventured into Death Valley, and marveled at the fascinating Extraterrestrial Highway. Each stop offered a new adventure, from the unique Valley of Fire to the mining history in Tonopah, giving the advisors a comprehensive understanding of Nevada’s diverse attractions.

Anchorage & Southcentral Alaska: The Call of the Wild

Alaska was another highlight of the program. Gianfranco Belloli, Lee Rabbidge, and Swapnil Bhate had the opportunity to experience the wild beauty of Southcentral Alaska through activities such as dog sledding and flightseeing. They soared over glaciers, experienced the thrill of high-speed dog mushing, and witnessed the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis. The advisors also discovered the area’s urban gems and Nordic spa rejuvenation days, all of which they can now recommend to clients seeking a unique wilderness experience.

Utah: Exploring the Natural Wonders

The last destination was Utah, where advisors like Sophie Shaw, Dan Eastwood, and Jodi van de Wydeven embarked on a self-drive adventure through alpine valleys, red-rock canyons, and stunning National Parks. Their highlights included trekking through the dramatic Peekaboo Slot Canyon, soaking in the Crater Hot Springs, and hiking the breathtaking Overlook Trail in Zion National Park. The natural beauty and diverse landscapes of Utah provided the perfect backdrop for learning about the state’s offerings, which the advisors will now share with their clients.

Enhancing Expertise through Hands-On Experience

The experiences provided by these U.S. fam trips helped advisors not only gain firsthand knowledge of each destination but also expand their understanding of accessibility, product offerings, and the overall value that these destinations offer to travelers. With over 1,300 USA Discovery Program badges completed, the 2025 program has proven to be a game-changer for many travel agents. According to Suzy Shepard, Brand USA’s Senior Director for APAC, the program’s hands-on experiences have significantly elevated the expertise of travel advisors, enabling them to better sell the U.S. as a destination.

Looking Ahead to Sell Your Way to the USA 2026

The success of the 2025 Sell Your Way to the USA program has paved the way for even more opportunities in 2026. As the program prepares for its next iteration, there will be even more chances for travel advisors to level up their knowledge and boost their sales expertise. Corey Marshall confirmed that plans are already in the works for next year’s program, which will build on the achievements of 2025. The 2026 program will feature additional U.S. destinations and continue to showcase the vital role that travel advisors play in promoting U.S. tourism.

As America250 celebrations loom in the future, the insights and expertise gained from these immersive experiences will help advisors inspire clients and grow their U.S. sales with confidence.

The Sell Your Way to the USA 2025 program has undoubtedly empowered travel advisors with firsthand knowledge of U.S. destinations. By offering immersive, well-curated trips across key U.S. regions, the program has provided a rare opportunity for agents to connect with the U.S. on a deeper level. With plans already in motion for the 2026 program, the future looks bright for travel professionals who are ready to elevate their expertise and inspire future travelers to explore the magic of the United States.