2025 Events, AI Tools, and Industry Trends for Travel Advisors

Eric Marquette

Welcome to this week's Too Long, Didn't Read Deep Dive Recap on our Events and Education email. Let's dive right in, as there is a lot of great information.

Renee

Okay... I just have to start by saying—this year’s TPI events lineup is looking absolutely incredible. I mean, the Luxury Symposium 2025? It's like the pinnacle of bougie travel opportunities! I’m getting excited just thinking about it.

Eric

Absolutely, and for good reason. This Symposium specializes in luxury travel, helping you really hone your expertise in a segment that's always in demand. Not to mention, it’s happening on March 6th and 7th, so there’s still time to register—but not much, seats are filling up fast.

Renee

Oh, yeah, and no pressure or anything—but can you imagine walking out of there just feeling like a luxury travel aficionado? You’ll have the insights, the confidence, and honestly, probably a new favorite handbag or two—well, metaphorically speaking.

Eric

Ha, metaphorically, of course. But you’re right—it’s a solid investment in understanding how to market and sell luxury travel. And speaking of investments—

Renee

Oh, you’re going to bring up the River Cruising event, aren’t you?

Eric

You know me too well. Yes, the "Learn | Market | Sell: LIVE - River Cruising" event is on February 6th and 7th, and it’s only $49. That’s a small price when you consider what you will gain—practical, actionable strategies for selling river cruises.

Renee

And it’s high time for that. River cruising is having such a moment in 2025. It’s intimate, scenic, and honestly, kind of romantic. I’d say it’s the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Plus, destinations you can’t always get to on ocean liners?

Eric

Exactly, that small-group vibe paired with unique destinations is why it's taken off. Attending this event is really about empowering advisors to lean into that trend and provide clients with something distinct.

Renee

Okay, I’m already sold, but then we get to…the Carnival Venezia ship tour. Now, this feels like the cherry on top.

Eric

It really is. Carnival’s inviting advisors for an exclusive tour of the Venezia, and these ship tours are invaluable. They give hands-on insight into cruise offerings, which helps you better showcase the experience to your clients.

Renee

Right? It’s one thing to say, "Here’s a list of amenities," but it’s another to actually walk the halls, take in the spaces, and—let’s be honest—sneak a peek at the buffets. That level of immersion makes all the difference.

Eric

Couldn’t agree more. It’s an opportunity not just to learn but also to connect with a product in a tangible way that resonates when selling to clients.

Renee

Alright, so we’ve got luxury travel inspiration, river cruising strategies, and a cruise ship tour—all packed into the first 3 months of the year. Honestly, I feel like these events are gearing you up for major wins in 2025.

Renee

Alright, we’ve talked about getting you ready for big wins in 2025, but you know what else is a game-changer? This AI-powered wonder called Claude. It’s like having a personal assistant that doesn’t need coffee breaks.

Eric

That’s a good way to put it. Claude really is a game-changer for advisors. It can handle everything from streamlining communications to simplifying complex itineraries—and honestly, it just frees up time to focus on building client relationships.

Renee

Exactly! And I mean, let’s not pretend that writing up proposals or managing schedules is anyone’s favorite part of the job. Claude just…takes those tasks and makes them feel effortless. Honestly, it’s kinda wild when you think about it. Check out the new Innovation Station in our weekly emails for all the details and videos.

Eric

Totally. And speaking of making things easier, let’s talk about the new Signature Training Center launching on January 22nd.

Renee

Ooh, yes! This is good. Over 400 courses at your fingertips? Plus, you can create your own playlists now? I’m kinda geeking out over here.

Eric

It’s well worth geeking out. The playlist feature lets advisors really tailor their learning experience—whether you’re new to the industry or looking to fine-tune specific skills, there’s something there for everyone.

Renee

And let’s not forget, they’ve made it super intuitive. I heard you can even search by partner or subject. That’s huge. It takes the guesswork out and just lets people dive right into what they need.

Eric

Exactly. It’s all about turning learning into a seamless, empowering process. And for advisors who may have missed out on live content—

Renee

Ah, let's talk about the TPI Video Library now! I feel like people are sleeping on this one. It’s seriously a goldmine.

Eric

It really is. Whether it’s TPI Talks, Partner Talks, or even just catching up on past news segments, the library is packed with insights. Plus, you can revisit topics as trends evolve, which makes it an evergreen resource.

Renee

And here’s what I love: it’s not just about rewatching. It’s about applying what you’ve learned—like using sales tips from a Partner Talk to upsell a river cruise. It’s practical stuff, and honestly, kind of inspiring to see what’s available.

Eric

Couldn’t have said it better. With tools like these, you are positioned to work smarter, not harder—and deliver even more value to your clients.

Renee

And honestly, isn’t that the goal? To up your game so clients aren’t just satisfied—they’re wowed. I feel like these resources are the key to making that happen.

Renee

Speaking of using resources to deliver more value to clients, can we just take a moment to talk about how much the cruise industry has evolved? I was looking at the 2024 State of the Cruise Industry report, from Cleeah, and it's like...wow, the pace of change is dizzying, but in the best way.

Eric

No kidding. The report really highlights how cruise lines are catering to a broader audience with diverse offerings—think more unique itineraries, eco-conscious innovations, and of course, elevated onboard experiences. It’s the kind of shift that advisors need to pay attention to.

Renee

Exactly, because it’s not just about filling cabins anymore. It’s about crafting these unforgettable, tailored experiences for clients. And honestly, trends like this—well, they’re a goldmine for advisors who are ready to adapt and innovate.

Eric

Absolutely. But, you know, staying ahead of trends is just part of the equation. Advisors also need to keep an eye out for regulations and let’s face it, that can be challenging to navigate sometimes.

Renee

Oh, for sure. In our Biz Essential article, we discuss the UK’s new ETA requirement—doesn’t start until this year, but already, it’s catching people off guard. And the EU’s Entry/Exit biometric system? It might streamline border control, but it's definitely something travelers need to be prepared for.

Eric

Right. And this is where TPI advisors step in, not just as booking agents but as trusted allies. By being proactive—whether it's flagging these types of changes or helping clients navigate them—YOU become invaluable resources for clients.e

Renee Marquette

Exactly. It's about leveraging these changes, not just reacting to them

Eric

And that leads me to think why the Advocate Meetups are so important. They give advisors a direct line to industry updates and a chance to network with peers. It’s a collaborative way to get ahead.

Renee

Totally. I mean, those regional meetups are like forums for leveling up. You connect, you learn, and—if nothing else—you’re reminded that you’re not in this alone. There’s a whole community of people navigating these same waters with you. Check out the Events and Education email to see nine meetings coming up this month and next month.

Eric

And I always encourage you to click that "Best Deals" links, too. Preferred Partner Offers are consistently packed with valuable promotions that can make all the difference for clients—especially with trends evolving so quickly.

Renee

Oh, you mean where advisors get to swoop in like heroes and offer clients deals they didn’t even know they needed? Yeah, that’s a flex. If you haven’t bookmarked that page yet, get on that!

Eric

Well said. Industry shifts, regulatory updates, networking—you put it all together, and 2025 is shaping up to be a rewarding year for those of you who are ready to lead the charge.

Renee

Speaking of staying ahead of the curve, We've got to talk about what’s on tap with TPI's upcoming livestreams. They’ve lined up such a fantastic mix with TPI Talks, Partner Talks, and even a touch of TPI News flair—plenty to keep you informed and inspired.

Eric

Absolutely. The TPI Talks session with Reyna Pagan and Katherine Moraes is going to be invaluable—it’s all about booking into groups with Royal Caribbean and working your secondary phone field. That’s the kind of hands-on, nitty-gritty guidance that advisors really need.

Renee

Oh, totally. And then we’ve got the Partner Talk with Aurora Expeditions. I mean, learning about their new 2026 Arctic schedule? Plus, no single supplement programs? That’s like a jackpot for clients wanting unique experiences without the usual solo travel markup.

Eric

Exactly. And Scott Harner from Aurora Expeditions is one of the guest speakers, so you know it’s going to be rich with insights. This livestream is really going to help you position those must-see itineraries as once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

Renee

And then there’s TPI News with Jennifer Freeman and Denise Fraind. They’ll be diving into updates from Globus Family of Brands, especially what's new on the small group tour side, and honestly, I gotta say, I’m intrigued.

Eric

Me too. And they’re mixing that with actionable sales tips from TPI’s own Business Development Sales Coach, Kalista. That’s like having a double feature of industry know-how and practical strategy.

Renee

Okay, so here’s the takeaway—these livestreams? They’re more than just livestreams. They’re tools, masterminds, and, let’s be honest, a source of inspiration. If you’re listening in and not bookmarking these yet, what are you waiting for?

Eric

Couldn’t have said it better myself. The dates, times, and links are in the Events and Education email in your inbox now. If you didn't get it, make sure to email us so we can get you back on the list.

Renee

Absolutely. And on that note, I think it’s time for us to say goodbye—for now. It’s been such a blast unpacking all of this with you.

Eric

Thank you for tuning in. Here’s to a year full of growth, opportunity, and, of course, unforgettable travel planning adventures.

Renee

Absolutely. Until next time, keep dreaming big, stay inspired, and we’ll catch you on the next episode!