Hey {{first_name}}!
Sorry for the delayed newsletter, I know I am 2 days late. It has been a crazy few weeks here at Voyagr, and I lost track of time. But, better late than never, right? 🙂
🗞️ Industry News Roundup
1. American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Launches New Corporate Travel Executive Forum
ASTA convened its inaugural Corporate Travel Executive Forum, uniting industry leaders around the business‐travel segment and future trends.
Why It Matters:
Business/corporate travel is an area of rebound and could offer new revenue streams for advisors — especially those who traditionally focus on leisure.
Being aware of ASTA’s initiatives helps advisors stay aligned with policy, advocacy, and industry standards.
The focus on executives and corporate travel may signal shifting supplier/platform support and new business travel opportunities to exploit.
2. ACTA Launches Accessible Travel Advisor Directory
The Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA) introduced a directory of travel advisors specialising in accessible travel, aimed at connecting clients with advisors trained in accessibility needs.
Why it matters:
Highlights a niche (accessible travel) that’s gaining formal recognition — an opportunity for advisors to develop specialization and stand out.
As clients increasingly demand inclusivity, advisors who can credibly offer accessible-friendly itineraries may gain a competitive advantage.
Shows that industry associations are supporting directory/credential initiatives — helpful for building trust and visibility.
3. These Are Travel Agencies’ Biggest Concerns Heading into 2026
A panel of industry leaders convened by American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) identified the top issues travel agencies and advisors are facing as 2026 approaches—including professionalism standards, margin pressures, recruitment of quality advisors, and supplier relationships.
Why it matters:
Flags key operational risks (e.g., margin erosion, supplier constraints) that advisors should be proactive about.
Highlights the increasing need for strong credentialing/training (professionalism) to differentiate in the market.
Suggests future industry focus areas—good to align your strategy with what the broader trade sees as challenges.
🌍Destination Trio: Three unique destinations to recommend
Hua Hin, Thailand
Just 90 minutes from Bangkok, Hua Hin is Thailand's original beach resort favored by Thai royalty and locals rather than international tourists. This sophisticated coastal town offers beautiful beaches, hidden jungle temples, caves, Thai wineries, elephant sanctuaries, and vibrant night markets—all with authentic Thai atmosphere without the party scene of Phuket or Pattaya.
Best Time to Visit: November - February for dry weather and comfortable temperatures
Sardinia, Italy (Costa Smeralda)
Italy's second-largest island offers pristine Mediterranean beaches, ancient Nuragic ruins, rugged mountain landscapes, and authentic Italian island culture. From the glamorous Costa Smeralda to hidden coves like Cala Coticcio, Sardinia delivers Italian coastal beauty with unique archaeological sites and culinary traditions distinct from mainland Italy—all without the tourist saturation of the Amalfi Coast.
Best Time to Visit: May - June and September for warm weather and fewer crowds
Zadar, Croatia
Croatia's Dalmatian coast gem offers the same historical richness and stunning Adriatic beauty as Dubrovnik or Split without overwhelming crowds. Home to the innovative Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installations, Zadar features Roman ruins, medieval churches, and what Alfred Hitchcock called "the most beautiful sunset in the world"—all at more accessible prices.
Best Time to Visit: May - June and September for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Voyagr Update
Voyagr’s booking engine for hotels has launched! 🚀
In this launch, we made some bug fixes, some UI improvements, and launched a chatbot for travel-related questions. This marks our first step toward building a multi-supplier booking engine.
We are working on an integration with Project Expedition next. If you have any suggestions for features or supplier integrations, let us know by replying to this email.
If you or someone you know wants to sign up for Voyagr, you can do so here: https://voyagr.travel/create-account
Thanks for reading! Forward this to a colleague who could use these insights, and if you have tips to share with fellow advisors, reach out to be featured in an upcoming issue.
