Speaker Stages

Los Angeles 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.

Vroman’s Bookstore in booth #1251

Saturday, February 3

Savvy Traveler Theater
Mickela-Mallozzi

10:00 am – 10:45 am

How to Have An Authentic Travel Experience

Mickela Mallozzi
ROUNDTRIP TICKET GIVEAWAY FOR ONE LUCKY WINNER FROM AER LINGUS

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Mickela Mallozzi, Emmy® Award-Winning Host and Executive Producer of Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi

Sustainability in travel can be daunting, but it doesn’t mean you have to give anything up – instead, you gain so much from proactively seeking authentic travel experiences. Learn from world traveler and Emmy-winning travel host on PBS, Mickela Mallozzi, on how to make sure your next travels are culturally sustainable, by connecting with the locals and making the most authentic travel experiences into lasting memories wherever you go! Be sure to attend this session if you have a trip already booked or if you’re looking for travel inspiration for your next trip.

ROUNDTRIP TICKET GIVEAWAY FROM AER LINGUS
Two roundtrip economy tickets LAX-DUB with blackout dates, valid for 1 year to redeem (travel to be completed by Feb 10, 2025) – must be present to WIN!

Destination Theater
Casey-OConnell2

10:15 am – 10:45 am

Safari Njema – Planning Your East African Safari

Access 2 Tanzania

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Casey O’Connell, Safari Consultant, Access 2 Tanzania

Access 2 Tanzania & Treks 2 Rwanda will help you make your bucket list safari adventure a reality, answering questions
about when to go, what you should see and do, and how to get the most from your experience. The specific focus will be on
experiencing the quintessential safari in Tanzania and trekking to visit the mountain gorillas of Rwanda.

Travel Theater
Rick-Steves

10:45 am – 11:45 am

European Travel 2024

Rick Steves

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Rick Steves, Travel Writer, Host of Rick Steves’ Europe, and Travel with Rick Steves

Join Rick as he shares lessons from a lifetime of travel so you can learn from his experiences and travel smoother. With his entertaining, information-packed talk you’ll learn the essential skills for smart travel from itinerary planning to venturing off the beaten path. Get Rick’s pro tips on packing light, escaping crowds, avoiding scams and pickpockets; and maximizing your cultural and culinary experiences. Rick also covers the latest on post-pandemic travel in Europe.

Autograph Signing Immediately Following

Savvy Traveler Theater
Wendy-Alexander

11:00 am – 11:45 am

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
Steve-Murphy

11:15 am – 11:45 am

Family Adventures: Creating Memories to Last a Lifetime

AAA – Club Adventures

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Steve Murphy, Business Development Manager, Club Adventures

Small group tours the whole family can agree on! From Peru to South Africa and many destinations in between, Club Adventures offers over 50 tours for families looking to kick their vacations up a notch – imagine… dinosaur history lessons, chocolate making classes, and of course – making friends with other families around the world. The catch? Your kids won’t be able to stop talking about it once you come home! Join Club Adventures Business Development Manager (and father) Steve Murphy to learn more about where you can go with your family.

Destination Theater
Deon-Go-TouchDown

12 Noon – 12:30 pm

Discover South Africa with Micro-Size Group Tours

Deon Barnard

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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
Angel_C

12 Noon – 12:45 pm

The Ultimate Guide for Better Travel in 2024

Angel Castellanos

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Angel Castellanos, World Travel Expert, Writer/TV Host, AngelsTravelLounge.comYouTube Channel The Tour Guy

If you want to travel better, smarter and enjoy your vacation, you don’t want to miss this popular talk. The World and travel have dramatically changed. Angel Castellanos, who’s traveled almost one million air miles since 2020, delivers his updated popular and energetic talk on practical travel tips and savvy packing techniques. This highly informative talk is updated from Angel’s extensive travels and “packed” with the most up to date actionable travel tips and inspirational stories from all over the world to help travelers travel smarter, better, and cheaper. In this talk you will learn to plan, book & execute and even pack for the best vacation of your life!  Angel will deliver the best travel tips on changes in tourism, health safety, de-stressing the airport experience, saving money, sightseeing hacks, traveling with technology and of course updated packing tips for today’s world! No matter your level of experience, you are bound to come away with practical, current travel tips. The packing demonstration included in this talk is one you do not want to miss. Packing in a carry on? After this presentation, packing in any bag will not be a problem! Join us for this insightful and dynamic presentation. Travel smart, well and often! AngelsTravelLounge.com

Destination Theater
Scott-Sloan

12:45 pm – 1:15 pm

What to Expect from Your Antarctica Expedition

Atlas Ocean Voyages

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Scott Sloan, Regional Sales Director, Southwest, Atlas Ocean Voyages

Come learn about all things Antarctica!  With Atlas Ocean Voyages, venture to the seventh continent and see incredible wildlife such as penguins, seals, birds, whales, and many more.  Travel on your fully guided expeditions via zodiac as you explore the varying landscape of the great white continent.  With Atlas Ocean Voyages, you not only immerse yourself in the destination, but you do so in style and comfort of a small, luxurious yacht with fewer than 200 guests onboard.  When you’re not exploring Antarctica, kayaking, or camping out on the ice, sit back, relax, and enjoy our all-inclusive atmosphere, educational programming, upscale dining, and elegant comforts of our yachts.

 
Travel Theater
Phil-Rosenthal

12:45 pm – 1:45 pm

Q/A with Netflix's Phil Rosenthal: How Travel Became His Passion and His Job

Phil Rosenthal

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Phil Rosenthal, Host, Creator, and Executive Producer of “Somebody Feed Phil”
Moderator: Gabe Saglie, Travel Expert

A moderated conversation and Q/A with Phil Rosenthal, creator, writer and producer of Everybody Loves Raymond, and Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil He’ll be talking about his travels, the food along the way, as well as his 2022 release ‘Somebody Feed Phil The Book’ and upcoming book with his daughter ‘Just Try It!’.

Autograph Signing Immediately Following

Savvy Traveler Theater
Julian-Douglas

1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

Top Private Tours Around the World With “The Private Tour Connoisseur”

Julian Douglas

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Julian Douglas, Travel Writer, Photographer & Experience Curator. The Private Tour Connoisseur.

Whether you’re looking to explore ancient sights and museums or eat your way across the Italian countryside in a Ferrari, Julian will reveal his Top Private Tours around the world. Learn how to maximize what Private Tours have to offer, tips and tricks to find the best tours, save money and make them happen.  

Do the things you’ve always dreamed of doing, have once in a lifetime experiences, and check them off your bucket list. View the Mona Lisa in private, drive a vintage boat on Lake Como, go behind closed doors at Versailles and see Elephants on an African Safari so close you can hear them breathe. Today’s Private Tours are more attainable and less expensive than ever before, so skip the lines and fully experience all that your destination has to offer. If you can dream it, a Private Tour can make it happen.

Destination Theater
Adriene-Xerri

1:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Pleasant Holidays - Beyond the Tropics

AAA – Pleasant Holidays

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Adriene Xerri, Business Development Manager, Pleasant Holidays

From palm trees and tropical drinks to UNESCO world heritage sites, Pleasant Holidays can show you the world.

Savvy Traveler Theater
Theresa-Goodrich2

2:00 pm – 2:45 pm

Planning Your Perfect Road Trip

Theresa Goodrich

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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
Fiji_Circle

2:15 pm – 2:45 pm

Journey to the Islands of Fiji

Tourism Fiji

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Stroebel Bekker, Fiji Airways, Regional General Manager Americas

Join Tourism Fiji for a fun and informational journey to the Islands of Fiji. If you’re looking for uncrowded islands, pristine environment, and famously friendly people, you’ll love our islands. Join us to hear more about how easy it is to get to Fiji and about the wide array of experiences for all types of travelers and budgets.

Travel Theater
paulinefrommer-500×500

2:15 pm – 3:15 pm

Life-Enhancing Vacations That Won’t Break the Bank

Pauline Frommer

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Pauline Frommer, Editorial Director of the Frommer’s Guides
and Publisher of Frommers.com

Pauline will discuss the smartest, most up-to-date ways of saving money on airfares, lodgings, sightseeing and more, advice that changes every year since the travel industry is so volatile. But it doesn’t really matter how much you save if the trip doesn’t feed your soul, right? Pauline will also cover methods of travel that allow you to dig deeper into the local culture and/or learn a bit about yourself; the most exciting destinations for 2024/2025; ways to reframe travel planning so it enhances your daily life; and much more.

Autograph Signing Immediately Following

Destination Theater
Heather-Ruhle

3:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Alaska & Anchorage By The Numbers!

Alaska Land & Sea Adventures

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Heather Ruhle, 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!

Destination Theater
Mario-Herrera-Headshot2

3:45 pm – 4:15 pm

The World of Viking

Viking Cruises

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Mario Herrera, 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™.

Travel Theater
Rick-Steves

3:45 pm – 4:45 pm

European Travel 2024

Rick Steves

Learn More

Rick Steves, Travel Writer, Host of Rick Steves’ Europe, and
Travel with Rick Steves

Join Rick as he shares lessons from a lifetime of travel so you can learn from his experiences and travel smoother. With his entertaining, information-packed talk you’ll learn the essential skills for smart travel from itinerary planning to venturing off the beaten path. Get Rick’s pro tips on packing light, escaping crowds, avoiding scams and pickpockets; and maximizing your cultural and culinary experiences. Rick also covers the latest on post-pandemic travel in Europe.

Autograph Signing Immediately Following 

Savvy Traveler Theater
Wanderful_speaker

4:00 pm – 4:45 pm

How to Travel Solo, from The Experts

Akemi Rico, Alice Ford, Olivia Blodgett and Sylvia Roldan

Learn More

Moderator: Akemi Rico, Creator at Akemi’s Adventures
Panelists: Alice Ford, Founder, Alice’s Adventures On Earth
Olivia Blodgett, Creator at Girl with Blue Sails
Sylvia Roldan, Creator at Cosmo Latina Cares

 

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.

Destination Theater
Jami-Tarris_Theo-Allofs

4:30 pm – 5:00 pm

As Wild As It Gets

Wild Focus Expeditions

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Jami Tarris & Theo Allofs, Professional Nature Photographers & Owner/Operators, Wild Focus Expeditions

Want to see eye to eye with elephants? Penguins? Orangutans? Polar Bears? Gorillas?  Tigers, Jaguars, and Lions? Come and see what an adventure with professional wildlife photographers Jami Tarris and Theo Allofs would be like as they take you to the most exciting wildlife regions and remote landscapes around the globe! They will share their many years of adventures in the bush to bring you face to face with wild animals. Time is precious, so come and listen to Jami and Theo for 30 minutes filled with intense “bucket-list” experiences that you will not find anywhere else. Only with them will you be amongst the few to see the beauty and excitement of our natural world through different eyes while at the same time having loads of fun doing it! Be amongst the first to join us for a half hour of pure adrenalin and win a wild surprise!

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

Sunday, February 4

Destination Theater
Jorge-Meraz

11:15 am - 11:45 am

Baja California’s Culinary Symphony: It’s Gastronomic Wonders Just a Drive Away From LA!

Baja California

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Jorge Meraz, Host, TV Show “Crossing South”

Baja California takes the culinary spotlight with its fresh bounty, Mediterranean spring and summer vibes, a wine country rivaling Tuscany, a daily feast of abundant seafood, and a wave of young talents transforming into culinary rockstars. Embark on a culinary odyssey as Jorge dives into the fascinating narrative behind Baja California’s culinary renaissance.

Travel Theater
Rick-Steves

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

European Travel 2024

Rick Steves

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Rick Steves, Travel Writer, Host of Rick Steves’ Europe, and
Travel with Rick Steves

Join Rick as he shares lessons from a lifetime of travel so you can learn from his experiences and travel smoother. With his entertaining, information-packed talk you’ll learn the essential skills for smart travel from itinerary planning to venturing off the beaten path. Get Rick’s pro tips on packing light, escaping crowds, avoiding scams and pickpockets; and maximizing your cultural and culinary experiences. Rick also covers the latest on post-pandemic travel in Europe.

Autograph Signing Immediately Following 

Savvy Traveler Theater
GoTravel

11:45 am – 12:30 pm

The Art of Solo Travel – A Guide for New and Seasoned Explorers

Pamela Holt

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Pamela Holt, Solo Travel Expert, TV Host and Producer of “Me, Myself & The World: The Art of Solo Travel”

Explore the world of solo travel with Pamela Holt. Having ventured to over 90 countries and territories, Pamela inspires both first-time solo travelers and seasoned explorers. Embark on this exciting journey to:

  • Acquire tips to spark your inner solo traveler
  • Learn strategies to maximize your solo adventures
  • Discover the top destinations for solo travelers
  • Uncover how solo travel can lead to self-discovery
  • And much more!

Don’t miss this opportunity to jumpstart & maximize your solo travels!

For a dose of pre-show motivation, catch Pamela’s TV series “Me, Myself & The World: The Art of Solo Travel” for free on GoTraveler or any of your preferred platforms: Amazon Prime, Tubi, SlingTV, and more. Season 2 is set to launch this February!

Pamela will be giving out exclusive GoTraveler swag for everyone flaunting the downloaded GoTraveler app on their phones or tablets. While supplies last

Brought to you by:

Destination Theater
Mindy-Cummings_Jonathan-Cerreta

12 Noon – 12:30 pm

Travelers Top Trending and Most Popular Destinations - Why AAA Member Choice Vacations® Can Make Every Style of Traveler Love Their Journey

AAA Member Choice Vacations

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Mindy Cummings, Business Development Manager, Los Angeles Region AAA Member Choice Vacations®
Jonathan Cerreta, Business Development Manager, Greater San Diego Region AAA Member Choice Vacations®

Join Mindy and Jonathan for this travel presentation to hear why these two can each get all of what they want with a AAA Member Choice Vacations® tour.  They will also highlight what destinations are trending and high on the list for 2024. AAA Member Choice Vacations® diverse guided travel collection features over 170 itineraries, including land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, faith tours and our Explorations small group tours. Every tour includes amazing accommodations, must-see sights, many meals, and enriching cultural experiences. Plus, with features like a professional Tour Manager, home to airport sedan service and an industry-leading travel protection plan, MCV makes travel simple for you while providing outstanding quality and value.

Destination Theater
David-McGuffins-2

12:45 pm – 1:15 pm

EXPLORING EUROPE: Top Destinations, Attractions and Experiences

David McGuffin's Exploring Europe, Inc.

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David McGuffin, Travel Enthusiast, Tour Operator, Musician, and Part-Time European, David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe, Inc.

Join European travel expert David McGuffin as he shares travel tips, favorite destinations, and lessons learned from forty-seven years on the road. David spends about four months a year in Europe leading his small group tours, writing about his favorite destinations, and sharing his adventures via his social media, travel blog, and videos. He is an advocate of avoiding crowds, living like a local, educated travel, and embracing the culture of the locale. His picture-packed presentation is loaded with pertinent travel information, suggested routes, sage advice, and information about his small-group tours in Europe.

Savvy Traveler Theater
Angel_C

12:45 pm – 1:30 pm

Travel Apps & Travel Tech For Easy Travel

Angel Castellanos

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Angel Castellanos, World Travel Expert, Writer/TV Host, AngelsTravelLounge.comYouTube Channel The Tour Guy

Technology has changed travel for the better and travel has never been easier. There is no doubt that our smartphones can be the most important travel tool in today’s world. Learn about the best travel technology, travel apps and how-to-use your device abroad from full time traveler Angel Castellanos. This highly informative talk is updated every year and “packed” with the most up to date savvy travel tips to help you maximize your tech to travel smarter. Angel Castellanos, The Travel Ambassador, is a travel tech expert with tips to make traveling with your tech easy. Learn to unlock the potential of your device and travel easier and smarter without getting lost in your phone. This informative and popular presentation prepares travelers so they can confidently use their mobile devices as a tool to travel better. Angel will cover the best travel apps to enhance your travels and allow you to communicate effectively without breaking the bank. No matter how tech savvy you are, you will definitely come away with great advice and helpful apps to travel smarter and better with your technology. Join us for this insightful and dynamic presentation. Travel smart, often, and well! www.AngelsTravelLounge.com

Travel Theater
Peter-Greenberg-Headshot-600×600

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Pushing the Envelope – The Secrets of Becoming A Road Warrior

Peter Greenberg

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Peter Greenberg, Emmy Award-Winning Investigative Reporter & Producer & CBS News Travel Editor
Panelists: Gary Leff, Co-Founder of Frequent Flyer Community InsideFlyer.com
William J. McGee, Senior Fellow for Aviation & Travel at American Economic Liberties Project, and Author of “Attention All Passengers” and “Half the Child”
Seth Kugel,Tripped Up Columnist, The New York Times

Autograph Signing Immediately Following

Destination Theater
Tim-Harrison

1:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Journey Through Japan With the Destination Experts

Inspiring Vacations

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Cameron Hunt, Global Head of Sales, Inspiring Vacations

Inspiring Vacations, award-winning tour operator, has been guiding countless travelers on remarkable journeys through Japan every year. Immerse yourself in the culture, breathtaking sights, unique experiences, and rich history of this incredible nation.
Their premium selection of Japan tours includes iconic destinations like majestic Mt. Fuji, the ancient beauty of Kyoto, and the vibrant energy of Tokyo. Whether you prefer fully escorted classic touring, small group adventures, premium experiences, tailor-made itineraries, or independent exploration, there is the perfect tour to match your travel style.
Discover expert tips and insights, and what to expect when touring the Land of the Rising Sun with the industry leaders. Your unforgettable Japanese adventure awaits!

Savvy Traveler Theater
Senitra-Horbrook-Headshot

1:45 pm – 2:30 pm

How to use Credit Card Points and Miles to Plan a Fabulous and (almost) Free Vacation

Senitra Horbrook

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Senitra Horbrook, Travel Rewards Expert/Writer & Editor

Frustrated with the high cost of travel? Learning how to use points and miles can save you significant money on travel if you redeem them wisely. In this session, you’ll learn tips on signing up for travel credit cards with big welcome bonuses and some of the ways to best redeem those points. Plus, we’ll also discuss some of the top travel benefits included with many credit cards, from getting free food and drinks in airport lounges to bypassing the long airport security lines.

Destination Theater
Paul-Swart

2:15 pm – 2:45 pm

“Off The Beaten Path” - On a Photographic Safari in Africa

Natural Migrations Inc.

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Paul Swart, President, Natural Migrations Inc.

Paul will cover the highlights of going “off the beaten” path on a photographic safari in Africa.

Travel Theater
paulinefrommer-500×500

2:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Life-Enhancing Vacations That Won’t Break the Bank

Pauline Frommer

Learn More

Pauline Frommer, Editorial Director of the Frommer’s Guides
and Publisher of Frommers.com

Pauline will discuss the smartest, most up-to-date ways of saving money on airfares, lodgings, sightseeing and more, advice that changes every year since the travel industry is so volatile. But it doesn’t really matter how much you save if the trip doesn’t feed your soul, right? Pauline will also cover methods of travel that allow you to dig deeper into the local culture and/or learn a bit about yourself; the most exciting destinations for 2024/2025; ways to reframe travel planning so it enhances your daily life; and much more.

Autograph Signing Immediately Following 

Savvy Traveler Theater
Lisa-Niver-Headshot2

2:45 pm – 3:30 pm

Are You Brave Enough? How to Make Your Dream Trip Happen

Lisa Niver

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Lisa Niver, Award-Winning Travel Writer, and author of Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty!

Ready to get out of your comfort zone and enjoy more enriching, memorable travel experiences? Travel expert Lisa Niver tackled her fears and overcame 50 challenges before she turned 50. She will share tips, tricks, and tools on how to be courageous in the world of travel. You can reinvent yourself and find deeper meaning, whether you‘re exploring solo or going with friends and family, traveling thousands of miles away or staying in your own backyard. Learn how to take small steps that lead to big change and make your bucket list a reality.

Destination Theater
Chanda-Vudmaska

3:15 pm – 3:45 pm

Pleasant Holidays - Beyond the Tropics

AAA – Pleasant Holidays

Learn More

Chanda Vudmaska, Staff VP of Sales, Pleasant Holidays

From palm trees and tropical drinks to UNESCO world heritage sites, Pleasant Holidays can show you the world.

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