Speaker Stages

Phil Rosenthal, TV Creator, Writer, Producer, and Author Phil Rosenthal

Moderated conversation and Q/A with, TV creator, writer, producer, NYT best-selling author, Phil Rosenthal. He’ll be talking about his travels, while filming Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil and discovering the best food along the way as well as the release of his second kids’ book, ‘Just Try It! Someplace New!

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

Cathy Bennis, Vice President/Head of Trade Sales & Partnerships, North America

Join us for an inspiring look at how Audley Travel creates fully customized, independent journeys to more than 90 countries. Learn why tailor-made FIT travel offers greater flexibility, personalization, and authenticity compared with traditional escorted group tours.

We’ll highlight unique experiences across the globe—tea ceremonies and artisan workshops in Japan, personalized African safaris, Aboriginal cultural encounters in Australia, scenic self-drives in New Zealand, private tastings and guided walks in Europe, and wildlife-rich adventures throughout the Americas.

If you’re dreaming of a trip designed around your interests, schedule, and style, this presentation will show you how Audley Travel crafts unforgettable journeys made just for you.

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

Want to travel smarter, stress-free, and actually enjoy your vacation? This talk is your chance to join an exclusive group of savvy travelers who know how to make every trip unforgettable. Angel Castellanos—seasoned traveler with 200k air miles in 2026 and expert who spends almost half the year traveling—will share practical, cutting-edge travel tips and hacks tailored for today’s world.

This high-energy talk is packed with actionable advice that has been the cornerstone of the Savvy Travel Stage for over 10 years, drawn from Angel’s global adventures. You’ll get insider tips on booking smarter, packing lighter (yes, even in a carry-on), and navigating the new technology landscape of travel with ease. Whether you’re a travel pro or just starting to explore, this talk will empower you to take control of your trips, save money, and easily elevate your experiences.

You’ll also discover how to tackle common challenges like stress-free airport navigation, sightseeing like a VIP, and game-changing apps—all while impressing friends and family with your effortless travel game. And that live packing demo? It’s a game-changer you don’t want to miss.

Travel smarter, better, and bolder. Join us for this dynamic, no-fluff presentation, and leave ready to plan the best vacation of your life. By the end, you will have a notebook full of actionable tips, game-changing apps, and real advice from experience. Your next adventure starts here.

Justin Barnette, Head: Marketing & Communications North America, South African Tourism

From iconic Big Five safaris and sun-soaked coastlines to vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage, South Africa is a land of unforgettable experiences. Discover a soul-stirring journey filled with beauty, adventure, and the warm spirit of Ubuntu—where joy is just the beginning.

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

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

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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.

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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.

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.

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

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

Join European travel expert David McGuffin as he shares travel tips, favorite destinations, and lessons learned from forty-eight 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 advocates avoiding crowds, living like a local, educated travel, and embracing the locale’s culture. His picture-packed presentation comes loaded with pertinent travel information, suggested routes, sage advice, and information about his small-group tours in Europe and beyond.

Crissy Whalin, Single Mom Budget Travel

Crissy Whalin from Single Mom Budget Travel teaches everyday people and families w/kids to travel on a budget, coach single parents on solo parent travel, and guide people to think differently about how they travel. Travel accessibility is the goal.

Lawrence Leyderman, Adventure Photographer & Expedition Leader

Ever wonder what it takes to photograph the Milky Way over desert canyons or chase the perfect golden and blue hour light? Join adventure photographer Lawrence Leyderman for real stories from the road, creative photography tips, and a look at upcoming workshop adventures—from Florida’s coast to Utah’s badlands, Oregon’s beaches, Colorado’s peaks, and Iceland’s total solar eclipse.

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

Meet and Greet Immediately Following

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.

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Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General & CEO, Caribbean Tourism Organization

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Caribbean tourism, where every destination tells a unique story. This session will explore how the Caribbean offers travelers authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences that leave lasting impressions. From breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling adventures to immersive cultural encounters and culinary delights, learn how the region’s diverse offerings cater to every type of traveler.

Patricia Schultz, Author, “1,000 Places To See Before You Die”, “1,000 Places To See in the United States & Canada Before Your Die”, and “Why We Travel: 100 Reasons To See The World”

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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

Jen Ruiz, Creator, Jen on a Jet Plane

Step beyond tourist hotspots and learn how to connect deeply with local communities through food, traditions, and everyday life, transforming your travels into meaningful cultural exchanges

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