When I boarded my flight to Anchorage for the Future Leaders in Travel retreat, I knew it would be a week of networking and learning. What I didn’t anticipate was just how transformative it would feel — not only for me as a travel professional, but also for what I can now offer my clients.

Future Leaders is a highly selective program that brings together a small group of travel advisors, suppliers, and industry thought leaders. It’s about more than just brochures and business cards — it’s about building genuine relationships and getting firsthand experience in a destination. And this year’s destination? Alaska: raw, wild, awe-inspiring, and absolutely unforgettable.

Alaska’s Adventures: Why Firsthand Experience Matters

I always tell my clients: you can’t really understand a destination until you’ve walked it yourself. This trip proved that in a big way.

🚁 The Helicopter Glacier Landing

My original plan to flight-see Denali was canceled due to weather — which could have been disappointing. Instead, flexibility led to something even more magical: a helicopter landing on the Knik Glacier.

From the air, we soared above jagged peaks and endless ice fields.
When we landed, I stepped out onto a world of white and blue, crunching across ancient ice while meltwater trickled below the surface.
It was silent, surreal, and utterly breathtaking.

This is why I always emphasize flexibility to my clients: sometimes the Plan B ends up being the memory of a lifetime.

🐻 Bear Watching in Lake Clark National Park

A seaplane whisked us away from Anchorage to a remote corner of Lake Clark, where brown bears roam freely. Watching them dig for clams, fish for salmon, and interact in their natural habitat was one of the most humbling and beautiful experiences of my career.

Unlike a zoo or safari, this was wild and unscripted.
Our expert guides kept us safe while also teaching us about conservation and respect for the environment.

It’s the kind of once-in-a-lifetime moment that my clients crave — and now, I know exactly how to make it happen for them.

🚂 Alaska Railroad & Glacier Cruise

From domed railcars with 360° views to gliding across turquoise waters dotted with icebergs, these experiences reminded me that the journey can be just as luxurious and unforgettable as the destination.

The Professional Side: Building Relationships for My Clients

Future Leaders isn’t just about adventure. It’s about connections.

I met one-on-one with luxury hoteliers, boutique tour operators, and river/ocean cruise lines.
These conversations aren’t sales pitches — they’re relationship-building. It means that when I call them for you, my client, they know me. That personal connection often translates to:
- Complimentary upgrades
- VIP welcome amenities (like champagne, spa credits, or private transfers)
- Priority waitlist clearance when space is tight
- Insider access to experiences you can’t book online

This is the “invisible value” of booking with a travel advisor. You might not see it when you sign the deposit form, but you’ll feel it when you check into your hotel and find yourself upgraded to a suite with a bottle of champagne waiting.

Lessons from Alaska That Apply Everywhere

Even if you’re not planning a trip to Alaska (yet!), the takeaways from this trip apply to any luxury traveler.

Flexibility is key. Weather, strikes, cancellations — things happen. When you’ve got me in your corner, it’s never your problem to solve.
Authenticity matters. The best trips combine bucket-list highlights and those smaller, intimate moments that surprise and delight.
Partnerships create perks. By attending events like Future Leaders, I strengthen the relationships that lead directly to better experiences for my clients.
Invest in experiences, not just logistics. A helicopter landing or a seaplane adventure might cost more — but it’s what you’ll talk about for the rest of your life.

Why Alaska Belongs on Your Bucket List

For many of my clients — empty nesters and couples who love adventure with a touch of luxury — Alaska checks all the boxes:

Unspoiled nature, unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
Boutique luxury lodges and wilderness retreats.
Unique ways to explore: seaplanes, luxury expedition cruises, private guides.
Culinary surprises, from fresh salmon to craft distilleries.

Whether you choose a small-ship Alaska cruise that glides into remote coves or a fully customized land itinerary with glacier hikes and bear watching, Alaska offers something truly unforgettable.

My Personal Takeaway: Why This Trip Reinforced My ‘Why’

As ASTA’s Travel Advisor of the Year, I already know the power of this profession. But standing on a glacier, meeting colleagues who inspire me, and connecting with suppliers who are passionate about delivering incredible experiences reminded me of one thing:

Travel isn’t just about seeing new places. It’s about connection — to nature, to people, to yourself.

And my role? To make those connections seamless, effortless, and elevated for my clients.

Final Thoughts (and a Little Invitation)

This Alaska trip was a milestone for me as a professional and as a traveler. It reinforced the importance of:

Firsthand knowledge
Building supplier relationships
Always advocating for my clients

If you’ve been dreaming of Alaska — or any other bucket-list destination — now is the time to start planning. I’ll bring the same level of care, connections, and expertise I brought back from this trip directly into your journey.

👉 Ready to start your own adventure? Let’s plan it together. Book a call with me here.

Future Leaders in Travel Alaska Recap: What I Learned & Why It Matters for My Clients