Speaker Stages

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

Rick shares lessons from a lifetime of travel so you can learn from his experience and travel smarter. 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 the crowds, saving money, maximizing your cultural experiences, and bringing home the best souvenir: a passion for building bridges rather than walls.

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

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.

Jennifer Broome, Multimedia Travel and Environmental Journalist

From surfing in Costa Rica to searching for northern lights in Iceland to going on safari in the Serengeti, I’m sharing the best destinations and outfitters to go if you want ro adventure solo.

Deon Barnard, CEO, Go Touch Down Travel and Tours

Our tours depart every week. No middleman and solo friendly rates. Join me to learn why you should travel to South Africa.

Scott Mayerowitz, Reward Points Expert & Strategist, GlobeTrotScott Strategies

Join Scott as he 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 take to protect your suitcase.

TBA
Discover what’s new in this iconic destination—from the Maya Train to exciting new resorts and immersive experiences. This session will give you fresh tools and inspiration to confidently sell the Mexican Caribbean in 2026 and beyond.

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

Pauline Frommer will discuss the best places to go in 2026; ways to save money on airfares, lodging, attractions, and dining; how AI is shaping travel pricing (and strategies for tricking it); and much more.

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

Klaus Fielsch, Product Manager and Expert Naturalist in The Galápagos Islands

Discover the Galapagos Islands, a must-see destination for families, couples, and solo travelers, where natural wonders and vibrant wildlife await. This talk highlights why the Galapagos should top your bucket list, revealing how your visit positively impacts the islands. Far from being harmful, tourism here supports the preservation of the Galapagos’ pristine beauty and aligns with sustainability goals, countering the overtourism narrative by showcasing responsible practices. By choosing the Galapagos, you contribute to conservation efforts and a sustainable future, making your journey part of a commitment to preserve this paradise for future generations.

Angel Castellanos, World Travel Expert, Journalist & TV Host, YouTube Channel The Tour Guy

TBA

Charlie Slater, Owner and Director of Fun, Remote Recreation Safaris

The glossy safari brochures don’t tell the whole story. In this talk, I get candid insights and insider wisdom from the field. Learn what really matters, what to avoid, and how to craft an adventure that matches your dreams. Straight talk for travelers who want the ultimate safari experience. The truths, myths, and insider wisdom you need before you book.

Christian Mani, General Manager North America

Discover the Cook Islands, where no building is taller than a coconut tree. We’ll show you why this unspoiled, authentic destination offers Americans incredible value ($1 USD approx $1.71 NZD) and and experience far beyond the typical tropical resort.

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

Rick shares lessons from a lifetime of travel so you can learn from his experience and travel smarter. 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 the crowds, saving money, maximizing your cultural experiences, and bringing home the best souvenir: a passion for building bridges rather than walls.

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

Russell Hannon, Ultra-Economical Travel Expert; Best Selling Author ‘Stop Dreaming’

Known for WOW’ing audiences with untold budget travel tips, Ultra-Economical Travel Expert Russell Hannon offers 99 ways to quickly and easily find the best and least expensive options for you. No matter what your travel type, or where you want to go, you will leave with dozens of practical tips and tricks you can put to work right away to save money on your next great escape. Attendees will get a digital handout of the 99 tips.

Meet & Greet and Book Signing Immediately following in the Book Store. 

Kristi Switzer, Travel Juneau Destination Marketing Manager

Overwhelmed by options? Learn not only what is available but gather ideas to help you plan your perfect Juneau experience — from iconic glacier adventures and wildlife tours to authentic local eats and cultural encounters. Learn insider tips and how to maximize your time.

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

Rick shares lessons from a lifetime of travel so you can learn from his experience and travel smarter. 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 the crowds, saving money, maximizing your cultural experiences, and bringing home the best souvenir: a passion for building bridges rather than walls.

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

Russell Hannon, Ultra-Economical Travel Expert; Best Selling Author ‘Stop Dreaming

Can’t find a travel deal? Ultra-Economical Travel Expert Russell Hannon of BreakTheTravelBarrier.com reveals amazing and practical ways to travel inexpensively regardless of the ‘going rate’. Russell unpacks loads of practical tools that open new worlds of stunningly affordable travel opportunities. “There’s lots for the 5-star and cost conscientious traveler alike”. Attendees will get a digital blueprint you can use right away to save on every trip.

Meet & Greet and Book Signing Immediately following in the Book Store. 

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.

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

Frommer will discuss the best places to go in 2026; ways to save money on airfares, lodging, attractions, and dining; how AI is shaping travel pricing (and strategies for tricking it); and much more.
Meet and Greet Immediately Following

Kristin Erz and Tim Amm, Directors of Expedition Sales, Silversea Expeditions

Journey to the planet’s most remote and breathtaking destinations, from Antarctica to the Galápagos, with Silversea Expeditions. Discover how luxury and adventure come together for an experience unlike any other.

Angel Castellanos, World Travel Expert, Journalist & TV Host, YouTube Channel The Tour Guy

TBA

Charlie Slater, Owner and Director of Fun, Remote Recreation Safaris

The glossy safari brochures don’t tell the whole story. In this talk, I get candid insights and insider wisdom from the field. Learn what really matters, what to avoid, and how to craft an adventure that matches your dreams. Straight talk for travelers who want the ultimate safari experience. The truths, myths, and insider wisdom you need before you book.

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

TBA

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

Karen Cleveland, Co-Founder and Safari Designer

From safety to timing to cost, I’ll share honest answers and my best tips so you can plan a safari that’s not only unforgettable, but soul-stirring.