Speaker Stages

Atlanta Travel & Adventure Show

Over 30 Travel Sessions Designed to Help You Travel Like a Rockstar

3 theaters provide you with the most comprehensive travel content that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

Travel Theater: You’ve seen them on TV, you follow them on Instagram, and now you can hear from them LIVE, right on the show floor.

Destination Theater: Destination-specific sessions give you the most up to date advice on where to go, what to do, how to get there and how to save in information packed 30 minute sessions.

Savvy Traveler Theater: Learn how to travel like an insider with the latest tips, tricks and actionable advice ranging from packing, travel technology, budget hacks and more, directly from the experts who live on the road.

Check back often as speaker information is being updated daily!

Speakers and schedule are subject to change without prior notice, please check back often for updates.

Stop by the on-floor bookstore to purchase books from your favorite travel authors here at the show.

Visit Posman Books Bookstore in booth #720

Saturday, January 11

Destination Theater
Chelsea-Dowty

10:30 am – 11:00 am

What We Do on a Dive Trip

Dive Georgia

Learn More

Chelsea Dowty, MSDT, Course Coordinator, Dive Georgia

Join Dive Georgia for a captivating presentation that explores the life-changing impact of travel and scuba diving. We’ll share our journey, highlighting how scuba diving not only brought us together but also plays a pivotal role in our local business, fostering a love for travel and underwater exploration. Discover how scuba diving can be a catalyst for change in your own life!

Hosted by:

Savvy Traveler Theater
Rudy-Maxa

10:30 am – 11:15 am

Where You Should Travel in 2024

Rudy Maxa

Learn More

Rudy Maxa, Travel Journalist & Broadcaster

The original savvy traveler Rudy Maxa shares the top 10 destinations you should visit in 2024.

Travel Theater
Peter-Greenberg-Headshot-600×600

10:45 am – 11:45 am

Pushing the Envelope – The Secrets of Becoming A Road Warrior

Peter Greenberg

Learn More

Peter Greenberg, Emmy Award-Winning Investigative Reporter
& Producer & CBS News Travel Editor

Autograph Signing Immediately Following

Destination Theater
_Barry-Johnston

11:15 am – 11:45 am

The World of Viking

Viking Cruises

Learn More

Barry Johnston, Director of Business Development, Viking Cruises

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture, and cuisine. Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being rated at the top of its categories for oceans, rivers, and expeditions by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. No other cruise line has ever received these same honors by both publications at the same time.  Today’s presentation will introduce you to The Viking Way™ of experiencing destination travel.  You will learn about Viking’s award-winning ships, and the itineraries that will allow you to Explore The World In Comfort™.

Savvy Traveler Theater
Theresa-Goodrich2

11:45 am – 12:30 pm

Planning Your Perfect Road Trip

Theresa Goodrich

Learn More

Theresa Goodrich, Traveler, Author, Publisher, Speaker, Emmy-Winner at the Local Tourist

Theresa L. Goodrich is an inveterate road trip enthusiast who’s traveled thousands of miles to tell the stories of America’s treasures. In this fun and energetic session, Theresa shares her best tips for planning your perfect road trip adventure, including choosing your ideal destination, saving money during your travels, and doing it all safely. Whether you’re looking to drive cross-country or just need a weekend getaway, you’ll learn how to plan an experience you’ll love.

Destination Theater
Deon-Go-TouchDown

12 Noon – 12:30 pm

Discover South Africa with Micro-Size Group Tours

Go Touch Down Travel & Tours

Learn More

Deon Barnard, CEO, Go Touch Down Travel & Tours

Our tours depart every week. We send more than 200 North Americans to South Africa each month. Come see why people that don’t like going on tours like traveling with us.

Destination Theater
John-Smith

12:45 pm – 1:15 pm

Discover the Beauty of Cruising with MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises

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John Smith, Director of Field Sales North Region, MSC Cruises USA

Discover what makes MSC Cruises so unique. From our onboard experiences to the destinations we visit to our mission of responsible traveling. We’ll also talk about MSC Yacht Club, our exclusive private sanctuary available on most of our ships, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, our private island like no other. Lastly, hear about MSC World America, an LNG-powered trail-blazing designed ship arriving next year!

One lucky attendee will win a bag filled with MSC Cruises goodies for your next dream vacation at sea.

Savvy Traveler Theater
Daily-Drop

12:45 pm – 1:30 pm

How I Traveled To 50+ Countries In A Year With Miles And Points

Mike Dodge and Megan Johnston

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Mike Dodge, Head Writer and Megan Johnston, Community Manager, Daily Drop

 

In 2023 alone Mike traveled to 52 countries and Megan traveled to 5 all using miles and points. From airlines to hotels to car rentals and more, learn how miles and points can save you thousands of dollars in travel expenses every single year. In one 2023 trip alone, Megan saved over $30,000. These strategies will help you land travel that feels free.

Travel Theater
Andrew-McCarthy-Headshot-500×500

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

The Longest Way Home

Andrew McCarthy

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Andrew McCarthy, Actor, Director, Award-Winning Travel Writer

Destination Theater
Jett-Hattaway

1:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Authentic Italy - Preserving Culture & Tradition Through Meaningful Travel

Life Beyond the Room

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Jett Hattaway, Sales & Strategic Partnerships, Life Beyond the Room

Authentic Italy – Preserving Culture & Tradition Through Meaningful Travel

Learn how slow travel is changing the way we see and understand places and the people that make them special. With mass tourism on the rise, small locally owned businesses are often overlooked in some of Italy’s most iconic destinations. These artisans are often the ones who maintain age-old traditions unique to the region. By investing in these kinds of experiences, we not only can support local families, but we can play an active role in preserving culture & tradition while making meaningful connections with local people. This element of Slow travel is what makes our LBR experiences immersive and fulfilling both for the traveler and our hosts.

Destination Theater
Katy-Ouellette

2:15 pm – 2:45 pm

Alaska & Anchorage By The Numbers!

Alaska Land & Sea Adventures

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Katy Ouellette, Tourism Sales Manager, Alaska Land & Sea Adventures

What drives traveler’s decisions when planning for an Alaska trip? In short, the numbers. Learn the distances (Alaska IS Big!), temperatures in all the seasons and when to go, money & how to get the best bang-for-the-buck! And lots of other facts about Alaska wildlife, culture & attractions from a seasoned expert. This engaging and entertaining presentation will get you excited to visit the 49th state!

Savvy Traveler Theater
Wanderful_speaker

2:15 pm – 3:00 pm

How to Travel Solo, from The Experts

Mari Di Chiara, Liz Erhartic, Shanita Miller and Annie Wanyi Jiang

Learn More

Moderator: Mari Di Chiara, Travel Content Creator @marionthemap
Panelists: Liz Erhartic, Content Creator & Wanderful Charlotte Hub Leader
Shanita Miller, Founder, Black Girl’s Guide to Atlanta
Annie Wanyi Jiang, Travel Content Creator @goanniewhere

 

 

Ever considered traveling alone? Whether you’re a veteran solo traveler or thinking about taking that first trip, solo travel is a special way to immerse yourself in the world around you, and many solo travel experts agree that you’ve just got to do it at least once.

Join the leading women’s travel community Wanderful (sheswanderful.com) and a panel of local solo travel experts and content creators who are going to divulge their top tips for going solo – from what to pack and where to go, to favorite travel hacks along the way to make your next solo trip your best one yet.

Travel Theater
Scott-Mayerowitz

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Travel Tips & Frequent Flyer Hacks

Scott Mayerowitz

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Scott Mayerowitz, Founder of GlobeTrotScott Strategies

Join Scott as shares tips from his years as a travel expert and frequent traveler. Learn how to maximize frequent flier and hotel loyalty programs. Follow his hacks for finding the best airfare and learn how to vet a hotel to make sure it is up to your standards. Discover ways to avoid being stranded during flight delays. And for those of you worried about airlines losing your luggage: find out the three simple steps you can do to protect your suitcase.

Destination Theater
Muriel-Wiltord

3:15 pm – 3:45 pm

Martinique, an Authentic Nature Escape

Martinique Tourism Authority

Learn More

Muriel Wiltord, Director Americas, Martinique Tourism Authority

Martinique is the ideal Caribbean getaway for nature lovers, with awe-inspiring landscapes and remarkable biodiversity recognized by UNESCO. During this session, you’ll hear the latest updates from this one-of-a-kind destination. Please come and join us.  You may be pleasantly surprised!

Savvy Traveler Theater
Wendy-Alexander

3:30 pm – 4:15 pm

Travel, Wine & Dine with Wendy Alexander

Wendy Alexander

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Wendy Alexander, TV Host, Executive Producer, Travel, Wine & Dine, and Author, Cooking & Entertaining with Wendy Alexander

Travel, Wine and Dine with me all over the country as I explore the Best Hotels, Resorts, Restaurants and Wineries. Wendy has hosted the # 1 Travel TV show for over 10 years.

Wendy will show you the latest travel tips on packing, changes in tourism, great local eateries, the best bars and of course where to fine the best local fun! So, get packed and ready for the Best Vacation of your life. Remember I Love you for free, and I’ll see you at my next Travel destination.

Destination Theater
Klaus-Fielsch2

4:15 pm – 4:45 pm

Journey to the Galapagos: A Life Changing Experience

MetroJourneys

Learn More

Klaus Fielsch, Product Manager, MetroJourneys

Now, more than ever, the Galapagos Islands are the ideal destination. Isolated but accessible, but above all extraordinary. Join Klaus to learn… when is the best month to travel? What endemic species will I see? What should I consider before booking a life-changing expedition to Galapagos?

*Disclaimer: Show Management reserves the right to change speakers and schedules at its discretion. Check back frequently for updates and changes.

Sunday, January 12

Travel Theater
Peter-Greenberg-Headshot-600×600

11:15 am – 12:15 pm

Pushing the Envelope – The Secrets of Becoming A Road Warrior

Peter Greenberg

Learn More

Peter Greenberg, Emmy Award-Winning Investigative Reporter & Producer & CBS News Travel Editor
Panelists: Scott Mayerowitz, Founder of GlobeTrotScott Strategies
Rudy Maxa, Travel Journalist & Broadcaster
Scott McCartney, Co-host, Airlines Confidential podcast. Former travel editor and Middle Seat columnist, the Wall Street Journal

Autograph Signing Immediately Following

Destination Theater
Deon-Go-TouchDown

11:30 am – 12 Noon

Discover South Africa with Micro-Size Group Tours

Go Touch Down Travel & Tours

Learn More

Deon Barnard, CEO, Go Touch Down Travel & Tours

Our tours depart every week. We send more than 200 North Americans to South Africa each month. Come see why people that don’t like going on tours like traveling with us.

Savvy Traveler Theater
_Laura-Powell

11:45 am – 12:30 pm

Exploring the Widening World of Wellness Travel

Laura Powell

Learn More

Laura Powell, Founder, Tourism Well Defined

We look at the latest wellness travel trends and separate the woo-woo from the tried and true

Destination Theater
Annette-Cornett

12:15 pm – 12:45 pm

Copa Airlines’ Product and Network in Latin America, our Awards, Stopover Program, New Destinations

Copa Airlines

Learn More

Annette Cornett, Sales Executive – Atlanta Metropolitan Area USA, Copa Airlines

Savvy Traveler Theater
Karin-M.-Aaron

12:45 pm – 1:30 pm

The GREEN BOOK EXPERIENCE Then and Now. Five Cool Places from the Past, Present and Future

Green Book Experience

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Karin M. Aaron, President/CEO Green Book Experience
Raymond Bud Geissler, President, Group Collect

Discover the living history of the historic Green Book (1938-1967) as experts share Five iconic locations that bridge nostalgia yet intertwines the past with the present

Destination Theater
Lindsey-Steck-Jackson

1:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Pensacola, Florida – The Way to Beach ™

Pensacola

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Lindsey Steck-Jackson, Marketing and Communications Manager, Visit Pensacola | Northwest Florida Beaches Representative

Discover why this underknown Gulf Coast destination is more than just 40-miles of sugar white sand beaches. With over 460 years of history, world class diving and outdoor attractions, a walkable downtown with local cuisines and shops, and surprises around every turn, you’ll see why this Florida destination in a can’t miss vacation spot.

Destination Theater
Tamara-Mallin

1:45 pm – 2:15 pm

Canada is Calling!

Fresh Tracks Canada

Learn More

Tamara Mallin, Director, Strategic Partnerships, Fresh Tracks Canada

Learn how to explore the country’s most spectacular sights on a personalized train vacation, and where to see the Northern Lights, polar bears, beluga whales, and more. Fresh Tracks Canada’s local experts can build an itinerary that suits your travel preferences — you choose the train-service level, hotel class and sightseeing activities.

Savvy Traveler Theater
Theresa-Goodrich

1:45 pm – 2:30 pm

Planning Your Perfect Road Trip

Theresa Goodrich

Learn More

Theresa Goodrich, Traveler, Author, Publisher, Speaker, Emmy-Winner at the Local Tourist

Theresa L. Goodrich is an inveterate road trip enthusiast who’s traveled thousands of miles to tell the stories of America’s treasures. In this fun and energetic session, Theresa shares her best tips for planning your perfect road trip adventure, including choosing your ideal destination, saving money during your travels, and doing it all safely. Whether you’re looking to drive cross-country or just need a weekend getaway, you’ll learn how to plan an experience you’ll love.

Travel Theater
Rudy-Maxa

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Where You Should Travel in 2024

Rudy Maxa

Learn More

Rudy Maxa, Travel Journalist & Broadcaster

The original savvy traveler Rudy Maxa shares the top 10 destinations you should visit in 2024.

Destination Theater
_Barry-Johnston

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

The World of Viking

Viking Cruises

Learn More

Barry Johnston, Director of Business Development, Viking Cruises

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture, and cuisine. Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being rated at the top of its categories for oceans, rivers, and expeditions by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. No other cruise line has ever received these same honors by both publications at the same time.  Today’s presentation will introduce you to The Viking Way™ of experiencing destination travel.  You will learn about Viking’s award-winning ships, and the itineraries that will allow you to Explore The World In Comfort™.

Savvy Traveler Theater
Allison-Vaelez

2:45 pm – 3:30 pm

What We Do on a Dive Trip

Dive Georgia

Learn More

Allison Vaelez, MSDT, Dive Instructor, Dive Georgia

Join Dive Georgia for a captivating presentation that explores the life-changing impact of travel and scuba diving. We’ll share our journey, highlighting how scuba diving not only brought us together but also plays a pivotal role in our local business, fostering a love for travel and underwater exploration.  Discover how scuba diving can be a catalyst for change in your own life

Hosted by:

*Disclaimer: Show Management reserves the right to change speakers and schedules at its discretion. Check back frequently for updates and changes.