Travel Industry Hall of Famers Share Optimism and Insights into the Future of Travel to Close Out the Dream Vacations and CruiseOne National Conference

More than $118,000 raised for Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida and $15,000 raised for Hurricane Melissa Relief

 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 17, 2025) – The grand finale of the 2025 Dream Vacations and CruiseOne National Conference aboard the Star Princess was marked by an engaging fireside chat between World Travel Holdings Co-CEO/Chairman Brad Tolkin and Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations and CruiseOne. The discussion provided an in-depth look at key industry trends, the state of leisure travel, and actionable strategies to help travel advisors thrive in an ever-changing customer-centric marketplace.

 

Tolkin shared his perspective on why leisure travel continues to surge even amid economic uncertainty, pointing to shifting consumer priorities and a cultural embrace of travel as an essential part of life. 

 

“We’re seeing consumers redefine what truly matters,” said Tolkin. ” Travel has become more than a luxury – it’s a necessity for connection, renewal, and creating lasting memories. Even as other sectors struggle, the demand for travel remains strong. Advisors in this room are at the center of this movement, helping travelers navigate choices, find value, and design experiences that enrich their lives. The fish are biting – our opportunity has never been greater.”

 

Tolkin went on to highlight that this trend is not cyclical, but structural, fueled by a cultural shift where travel is now viewed as an investment in personal well-being and family connection. He also addressed the growing focus on sustainable tourism, the importance of destination management, and the increasing value of travel insurance in today’s environment.

 

During his fireside chat, Tolkin underscored that personal relationships continue to be the greatest differentiator for travel advisors competing against direct-to-consumer platforms. 

 

“The human touch will never go out of style,” he noted. “Our repeat rates outpace the direct-to-consumer market because travelers trust their advisors to provide insight, advocacy, and care that AI alone can’t replicate.”

 

Daly echoed this message of optimism, emphasizing the importance of focus, passion, and purpose citing specific success stories to paint the picture that there are many paths forward. 

 

“To achieve success, it’s about being intentional with your choices, staying focused on your goals, and loving what you do,” said Daly. “The advisors in our network are thriving because they’re not just selling travel – they’re building relationships, experiences, and communities.”

 

The fireside chat ended with a forward-looking discussion about the role of technology, including AI and automation, and how it can empower advisors rather than replace them. Tolkin and Daly encouraged attendees to continue adopting the growth-focused tools provided by the MarTech team and educational programs from the training team to enhance efficiency, client engagement, and long-term growth.

 

To close out the 2025 National Conference, Daly was joined on stage by Debbie Fiorino, chief operating officer for Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, to reflect on their favorite moments and key takeaways, reinforcing how the event embodies the organizations’ core values of learning, connection and giving back. One of the most inspiring moments was Gary Sadler’s, executive vice president of sales and industry relations at Unique Vacations Inc., who delivered an impactful and inspirational presentation about the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica. Tolkin committed to donating $15,000 on behalf of World Travel Holdings to the Sandals Foundation to help affected communities recover and rebuild stronger after the devastation from Hurricane Melissa.

 

Continuing a long-standing tradition of giving back, Dream Vacations and CruiseOne once again supported Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida, raising more than $118,000 during the conference. Fundraising events included a lively dance-off, a 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction, allowing attendees to actively participate in supporting this meaningful cause. Over the course of a 14-year partnership, World Travel Holdings has raised more than $2 million to help make dreams come true for children facing critical illnesses.

 

“National Conference is an opportunity for our family to come together and celebrate what makes our network special,” said Daly. “We leave this week inspired, connected, and ready to keep thriving into 2026 and beyond.”

 

Those passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its travel advisors and travelers, should visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com to learn about franchising with Dream Vacations.

 

Photo Cutline: 2025 Dream Vacations and CruiseOne National Conference

 

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®

Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their advisors the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide advisors with powerful tools and resources to plan seamless, personalized travel experiences. As part of World Travel Holdings, they have been named franchise partner of the year by major cruise lines and are recognized for their dedication to supporting military veterans. Find out more at www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.