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Not many travel agents can say they traveled around the world this summer. But those who made it to this year’s Destination Success can! Thanks to the expertise and diversity of our suppliers, we were able to learn about the world’s best vacation experiences in just four days.

Kicking off the week of learning, VP of Agent Engagement Bill Coyle and Education Manager Carolyn Orf welcomed 200 agents in person and those watching the live stream back home. This was the first event that was broadcasted live to our agents who couldn’t make it to Ohio to attend.

After introducing our Executive Team, team members, and Regional Coordinators, we were off to our first destination around the world: The Galapagos!

Day 1 Travel Itinerary:

• Galapagos with Celebrity Cruises
• United Kingdom – Globus family of brands
• Perfect Day at CocoCay & Utopia with Royal Caribbean

We were also treated to a sit-down interview with Steve Ferry from Allianz. Steve explained the importance of travel insurance and how the process works.

After a session with Travel Leaders Network on the amazing programs they offer our agents, we took a break to get ready for the evening reception. Our neon party was straight out of the 1980s. Agents, suppliers, and staff dressed in their best and brightest attire. The fun and dancing continued until it was time to get rested for the next day of destinations.

Scroll through our photos from Day 1:

All throughout the event, we drew winners for the 46 prize giveaways. Prizes included gift cards, complimentary cruises, resort stays, bonus miles, theme park tickets, travel vouchers, branded items, and more. Even those who didn’t win didn’t go home empty handed. Everyone in attendance received a KHM Travel Group jacket!

Day 2 Travel Itinerary:

• Hawaii with Norwegian Cruise Line (complete with authentic Hawaiian leis!)
• Dominican Republic with Vacation Express
• Italian-Style Cruising with Carnival Cruise Line
• St. Lucia with American Airlines Vacations
• The Greek Isles with Celestyal Cruises

President and CEO Rick Zimmerman, VP of Sales and Marketing Geoff Cox, and VP of Agent Engagement Bill Coyle opened day two with a candid discussion about stepping outside your comfort zone. We learned more about these executives along with Senior VP of Operations Lisa Findura, VP of Finance and Administration Karen Siburt, VP of Industry Relations Anita Pagliasso, and CFO Dave Gouttiere during an entertaining “Get to Know You” panel.

During the afternoon, we were heard from our DE&I Specialist Amy Garner as she presented about autism travel.

“Aside from wanting to provide the very best service to our clients, when we think about autism-friendly travel, this is also a way to grow your business. 87% of families with autistic family members aren’t taking vacations because they don’t think there are resources and destinations out there for them.”

Amy Garner

We also learned more about travel insurance from Travel Insured; pre and post cruise activities and excursions with Expedia TAAP; and finally, to wrap up the day, an agent-favorite–Disney Destinations!

Scroll through our photos from Day 2:

Day 3 Travel Itinerary:

• Northern Europe with Holland America Line
• Portugal with Delta Vacations
• Alaska with Princess Cruises
• Orlando with Universal
• France with AmaWaterways
• Curacao with Sandals – featuring insights from top Sandals & Beaches Agent Ryan Trenn
• Eastern Caribbean with Virgin Voyages
• Mexico with Apple Leisure Group Vacations

Scroll through our photos from Day 3:

In between supplier sessions, a few agent attendees went to the stage to participate in a panel discussion about client communication. Thank you to our panelists Andrea Miner, Kelli Martindale, Laura Bender, Dee Gilmore, Kim Curlin, and Linda Allen.

We also took a few moments away from travel to focus on work-life harmony with David Pritchard, ALG Vacations’ Director of Health and Wellbeing.

To end an incredible third day, we welcomed Executive Vice President of Sales & Industry Relations of Unique Vacations, Inc Gary Sadler to deliver our keynote remarks.

“Never before has the importance of using the services of a professional travel advisor been so crystal clear. Never again will anyone, myself included, take travel for granted.”

Gary Sadler

Trade Show Day and The Luxury Symposium

Our final day of Destination Success concluded with a supplier trade show featuring over 70 supplier partners. Agents eagerly moved from table to table chatting with suppliers and grabbing the latest brochures and giveaways.

Scroll through our photos from the supplier trade show:

After the trade show, some agents stayed for The Luxury Symposium. This new event was the first of its kind. The Luxury Symposium was developed for KHM Travel Group Agents who are ready to understand the luxury travel market and offer a luxury product to their clientele with confidence. Managing Director Scenic Group USA Ken Muskat provided the keynote and agents heard from a fantastic lineup of luxury suppliers from across the travel industry.

Scroll through our photos from The Luxury Symposium:

Take your business around the world with KHM Travel Group! Call us or complete our application to take the first steps to becoming a travel agent.