10/25/2026
Last night I returned home from ALGV’s 2026 Ascend Conference feeling inspired and full of new knowledge and connections to help my clients plan unforgettable all-inclusive vacations! ✈️
There were over 90 travel suppliers at the conference including Inclusive Collection by Hyatt, Hilton All-Inclusive, Iberostar, Xcaret, Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya, Excellence, Atelier, Unico, Palladium, Royalton, Palace, Bahia Principe, Velas, Catalonia, Riu and SO many more! I loved connecting with so many knowledgeable reps to hear about the latest and greatest properties, but some of the BEST learning came from the conference breakout sessions focused on leadership, marketing, technology, client loyalty and other valuable skills that help travel advisors build and retain successful businesses. 📈
My favorite moment of the conference was the ultra-inspiring opening keynote speech from Will Guidara, author of Unreasonable Hospitality. Guidara's signature business philosophy advocates for taking ordinary consumer transactions and turning them into unforgettable, deeply human experiences. Ultimately he encouraged us to make whatever we do for others as impactful and magical whenever possible. I’m excited to read his book and apply his beautiful philosophy into my own life! 💖
Speaking of magic, I will always love helping my client families make magical memories at theme parks and on cruises, and I suspect these will continue to be my areas of expertise. I am so passionate about Disney Destinations and can’t wait to return to Walt Disney World in November and December. 🐭🥳
But as my business grows, I don’t have to limit my capabilities. I'm SO excited to have the tools and support to continue to expand my horizons and help my clients discover the beauty of the Caribbean and beyond, especially in the luxury market. ✈️🌎
I’d like to share a special thanks to our ALG Vacations BDM Shelly Williams for taking the time to connect each day and taking this primarily Disney-focused travel advisor under your beautiful, kind wings! And a very grateful thank you to Marti Blaine and Pack Happy Travel, for such an awesome opportunity to learn and grow at such a spectacular annual conference.
And finally, a huge shout-out to the entire ALG Vacations team for making this incredible conference so very special! The heart you put into the conference planning, your dedication to the industry and commitment to travel advisors truly shine!
Here are just a few pictures from Ascend- the one where the Friends theme was so over-the-top and absolutely incredible each day and at every event! ALG Vacations really let all of the attendees know “We’ll be there for you!”! 😍☂️
Are YOU ready for some sunshine? I’d love to help get your Caribbean vacation on the books! ☀️🏝️🌊🍹
Travel Magic by Leigh