Explore the World with EXOTICCA
Join us for lunch and explore unique destinations and see why you may choose Exoticca for your clients next vacation.
Upcoming Events
Join us for lunch and explore unique destinations and see why you may choose Exoticca for your clients next vacation.
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at our 6th Annual Fall Festival. Join us for an exciting blend of industry networking, insightful presentations, and a touch of fun. We’re bringing together travel advisors and industry professionals for a jam-packed evening of learning and connection.
Royal Caribbean and Silversea will be hosting our annual Friendsgiving lunch this year. Join us for a fun event with friends and hear the latest from our Silversea and Royal Caribbean cruise partners.
Let the season sparkle! San Diego ASTA and San Diego PATA warmly invite you to our Annual Holiday Party. Celebrate the close of the year with an evening filled with festive cheer, delicious food, and meaningful connections with fellow travel industry professionals. We look forward to seeing you there!
Event has been postphoned.
Join AMA Waterways and their very trusted insurer, Allianz Travel Insurance for an educational and enjoyable afternoon. Learn all that is new and enhanced with AMA Waterways, while also learning how travel insurance can help navigate today’s uncertainties. These companies are great partners. Learn how they can be great partners of yours as well!
Join us for an informative “Lunch & Learn” with Azamara Cruises and Baja California.
Are you ready to redefine "Destination Immersion" for your clients?
The luxury cruise landscape is shifting, and Azamara is leading the charge with a bold new vision. We invite you to join us for an intimate industry update to discover exactly what’s new with Azamara—from their latest itineraries that stay longer in port to the sophisticated, "country-club-at-sea" boutique experience that keeps travelers coming back.
More information from Baja California Tourism.
Members $15/Nonmembers $25
Learn what an ASTA Membership with Andrea Caufield from ASTA National headquarters.
No matter where you are in your journey, there’s a place for you:
✨ Future Travel Professional
Perfect for students or those getting started. Gain access to training, tools, and mentorship to launch your career.
✨ Independent Advisor / Contractor
Built for entrepreneurs ready to grow their business with powerful resources and advocacy support.
✨ Travel Agency Owners
Get representation, tools, and support designed to help your agency thrive and scale.
✨ Suppliers & Tour Operators
Expand your reach, connect with advisors, and grow your distribution network.
✨ Tourism Boards & Associations
Boost destination visibility and stay ahead of industry trends.
✨ Travel Schools
Equip your students with real-world connections and industry insights.
Whether you're just stepping into the travel industry or you’re a seasoned pro, ASTA is the community that helps you grow, connect, and succeed.
This isn’t just a membership…
👉 It’s your competitive edge
👉 Your industry voice
👉 Your network of opportunity
When you join, you’re stepping into a powerful professional network:
✔ Advocacy with lawmakers protecting YOUR business
✔ Industry-leading education & certification programs
✔ Exclusive networking events (local & national)
✔ Access to FAM trips & immersive travel experiences
✔ Health insurance options & business discounts
✔ Collaboration with top travel professionals across the country
Keep your momentum going!
Renewing is simple—stay connected, stay informed, and stay ahead.
This is your chance to:
💡 Learn which membership fits you best
🤝 Connect with fellow travel professionals
📈 Discover how ASTA can grow YOUR business
🎯 Ask questions and get started with confidence
Ready to elevate your social media presence and grow your brand with confidence?
Join us for an interactive session designed to help both new and experienced professionals better understand today’s powerful marketing tools. We’ll explore how platforms like BranchUp and Rallio can simplify your social media strategy, keep your content consistent, and help you stand out in a crowded digital space.
✨ What You’ll Learn:
How to streamline your social media posting with automated tools
The benefits of co-branding and expanding your reach
How AI is transforming social media marketing (and how you can use it!)
Practical strategies you can implement right away—no matter your experience level
Whether you’re brand new to the industry or looking to sharpen your marketing game, there’s something here for everyone.
SAVE THE DATE!
Don’t miss this exclusive look at the latest with HIC. We’ll explore brand-new properties, highlight stunning renovations and unveil an exciting sneak peak of the all-new Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana opening this November.
Let the season sparkle! San Diego ASTA and San PATA warmly invite you to our Annual Holiday Party, where we’ll celebrate the close of the year in a White Winter Wonderland setting at the beautiful Rancho Bernardo Inn.
Enjoy an evening filled with festive cheer, delicious food, and meaningful connections with fellow travel industry professionals.
Dress in your holiday best in WHITE and come ready to toast the season with friends old and new!
What to Expect:
🎄 Elegant sit-down holiday dinner
🍷 Seasonal cocktails & warm winter beverages
🎁 Raffle prizes & delightful surprises
🤝 Heartfelt networking in a cozy, festive atmosphereJoin your friends and colleagues for the San Diego Travel Industry's Annual Holiday Extravaganza!
Location: Rancho Bernardo Inn
17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, San Diego, CA 92128
December 16, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
Please RSVP before December 2nd. RSVP via the link below which will take you to the SanPATA event page.
Join us for our Annual Friendsgiving Brunch — a joyful gathering of travel professionals and friends as we celebrate the season of gratitude, connection, and giving.
Broken Yolk Cafe: 11630 Carmel Mtn Road, San Diego, CA 92128
Enjoy a delicious brunch, inspiring guest speakers, and the warmth of our travel community — all while supporting a great cause!
✨ Noshane King – Norwegian Cruise Line
Discover exciting new ships sailing out of San Diego and explore family fun right in our own backyard!
✨ Nathan Maruso – MSC Cruises
Learn about MSC’s latest updates and their family-focused adventures to the ultimate vacation.
✨ Laura Vogel – Director of Advocacy, ASTA
Get the latest on ASTA’s initiatives from Capitol Hill and understand why your support matters for the future of travel.
There is no cost to attend, but we ask that individuals attending make a donation (minimum $20) to support ASTA’s Advocacy Fund for legislative activities that protect and promote our travel industry. Donate Here
In the spirit of the holidays, please bring a non-perishable food item and/or clothing donation to benefit local families in need.
Seats are limited — don’t miss this heartwarming opportunity to connect, learn, and give thanks together.
SOLD OUT!
Support ASTA’s Consumer Awareness Fund Aboard the Beautiful Royal Princess, hosted by our BDM, Caron Clay
Enjoy lunch and a ship tour while fundraising for ASTA’s advocacy, which builds consumer awareness by showcasing the value of working with a travel advisor.
9:30 AM Check in with BDM at Pier
10 AM - 1:30 PM Ship tour and luncheon
1:30 PM Disembark as a group with BDM
Donation $25 per member / $35 per non-member
Donations to benefit ASTA’s Consumer Advocacy Fund
Port of San Diego International Cruise Ship Terminal
1140 N Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101
Parking is not hosted, parking information can be found here.
📅 Date: Tuesday, September 16th, 2025
📍 Location: Hilton San Diego/Del Mar | 15575 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
REGISTRATION FEES:
ASTA Members = $15
Non-ASTA Members = $25
Registration includes non-alcoholic drinks and buffet-style dinner.
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at the 5th Annual Fall Festival hosted by San Diego ASTA! This is the event you've been waiting for—an exciting blend of industry networking, insightful presentations, and a touch of fun. We’re bringing together travel advisors and industry professionals for a jam-packed evening of learning and connection.
Event Highlights:
Tradeshow & Cocktails (4:00PM - 5:00PM): Kick things off with our tradeshow and enjoy a cocktail while connecting with top suppliers.
Breakout Presentations (5:00PM - 6:15PM): Dive into 6 dynamic breakout sessions—choose your path and learn from the best! (Two sessions will run at the same time with 3 rotations, so there’s something for everyone.)
Dinner, Gold Speaker, and Prizes (6:20PM - 7:00PM): Enjoy a delicious dinner while hearing from our Gold Speaker, followed by exciting prize giveaways!
With over 100 travel advisors expected, this is the perfect chance to network, discover new trends, and elevate your business. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, meet new contacts, or just have a great time—this is the event for you.
Don't miss out—grab your spot today and join us for an evening full of meaningful connections, great updates, and fun!
🔗 Reserve Your Spot below!
A Conversation with the Catalunya Tourism Board
Begin your morning with an exclusive preview of what’s to come on our upcoming FAM trip to Catalunya and Costa Brava. Representatives from the Catalunya Tourism Board will be meeting with interested advisors for a 30-minute session to share highlights of the October 20–26 ASTA San Diego FAM.
This brief yet insightful presentation will showcase the distinctive culture, rich history, and exceptional hotels that define this stunning region of Spain. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences that await on this unforgettable journey.
Please RSVP using the link below. Check your email for the ZOOM invite which will be sent to all ASTA San Diego members.
ZOOM POSTPONED TO JULY. We will post new date here soon.
We’re excited to announce our next FAM with the Tourism Boards of Catalonia and Costa Brava. Learn about this rich and diverse region of Spain and get a preview of this exclusive FAM experience.
October 2025: Specific dates will be announced at during the Zoom.
Remember—Zoom Link will be emailed to ASTA San Diego Members.
Not only will we learn about wonderful African treks, we will journey to India, Brazil and even the Galapagos and Antarctica to see how our clients can embark on expeditions all over the globe. You will leave with fresh ideas, energized to go sell these amazing vacations.
Hear from Great Safaris (East Africa), African Travel (Southern Africa), Ker & Downey (India and Brazil), and Silversea (Galapagos and Antarctica) while you devour a delicious Chinese dinner. Cost is just $15 for ASTA members and $25 for non-members.
Learn what is new and exciting in the World of Luxury Travel
Just $15 members and $25 non-members.
📅 Date: March 12, 2025
📍 Location: The Event Center at Phil's BBQ - 3740 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego, CA
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
REGISTRATION FEES:
ASTA Members = $15
Non-ASTA Members = $25
Registration includes non-alcoholic drinks and buffet-style dinner.
Join the ASTA San Diego Chapter for an insightful discussion on the ever-evolving landscape of European travel. Whether you're helping clients plan their dream vacations or staying ahead of industry changes, this event will equip you with the latest updates, challenges, and expert travel tips.
🔹 Mary Lee – Brendan Vacations
🔹 Ghythe Haddad – Collette
🔹 Amanda Modly – Avanti Destinations
Each expert will provide valuable insights into travel trends, policy updates, must-know tips, and offered travel-styles that can help navigate Europe in today’s world. From itinerary planning to overcoming logistical challenges, you’ll gain the knowledge and resources needed to provide top-tier travel experiences for your clients.
🔥 Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and become the expert in European travel!
🔗 Reserve Your Spot Today!
✨ Highlights Include:
Engaging presentations on unique rail itineraries by your local partners!
A special guest appearance by Hendrik Dadema, a celebrated Globus Tour Director and Avalon Waterways Cruise Director, sharing insider tips and stories.
Enjoy a delicious lunch while networking with fellow Travel Advisors at the elegant Seasons 52 in La Jolla.
📅 Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, February 4th
Time: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Seasons 52, La Jolla
Spots are limited, so don’t miss your chance to discover why rail vacations are the ultimate way to explore!
🎭 You’re Invited to "A Masked Evening" 🎭
Get ready for a night of elegance, mystery, and cheer as ASTA San Diego and the PATA team host our Annual Holiday Party at the stunning Rancho Bernardo Inn!
✨ Event Details:
Date: December 17, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Dress Code: Semi-formal, Masquerade Ball—bring your most fabulous mask and attire!
Location: Rancho Bernardo Inn (parking validation included).
✨ Why You’ll Love It:
Close off the year with an evening filled with celebration and connection with the best community around!
Delight in our festive theme, prize giveaways and more!
Toast the season with your fellow travel professionals in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
This is the can’t-miss holiday event of the year! Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, “A Masked Evening” promises memories you’ll cherish.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
SPONSORED BY LOS CABOS TOURISM & MARRIOTT LUXURY HOTELS
Calling All San Diego Travel Advisors: Let’s Celebrate, Connect, and Make a Difference!
San Diego ASTA Chapter is thrilled to invite you to our Third Annual Friendsgiving in support of ASTA PAC—the only organization that advocates for travel advisors like you in Washington, DC. It’s more than just a gathering; it’s a chance to come together with fellow travel pros, enjoy a delicious meal, and help protect our industry’s future.
Why Should You Join Us?
Because ASTA is YOUR voice! Without their ongoing efforts in educating elected officials about the challenges we face, our industry wouldn’t have the protection it does. ASTA PAC works tirelessly for YOU, ensuring that travel advisors are heard and respected.
Here’s What You Can Expect:
A Delicious Lunch: Sponsored by the wonderful Susie Albin-Najera from Los Cabos Tourism and the fantastic Rebecca McArthur from Marriott Luxury Properties—both huge supporters of ASTA and YOU!
Special Guest Speaker: Laura Vogel, Director of Advocacy for ASTA, will give us an insider’s look at how ASTA fights for our industry on Capitol Hill.
Networking & Fun: Meet like-minded travel advisors, build relationships, and toast to a successful year with your peers!
Your Support Matters
There’s no cost to attend, but we ask that you consider making a minimum donation of $20 to ASTA PAC. Every dollar helps protect the future of our profession. Donate below and attribute your donation to SAN DIEGO.
Together, let’s celebrate the power of community and advocacy. We can’t wait to see you there!
Nourish your brain while you enjoy this special lunch version of our popular Bootcamp series!
Our travel-centric experts will serve up plates full of great information, such as:
• Growing your business with the best digital marketing ideas
• Implementing website design tips for boutique agencies
• Harnessing YouTube to attract viewers that become customers
• Equipping your social media accounts to create fun AND funds
• Finding and keeping a lucrative social-media fan base
• Taking advantage of free resources you can easily add
Our presenters:
Drew M. Santiago, ACC, Carnival Cruise Line
Adam Lapsevich, President & Web Designer, SpoonDrawer Media
Vince Trotter, President Harr Travel
Drew Santiago , Director of Business Developement
Drew Santiago, Director of Business Development Carnival Cruises
Adam Lapsevich, SpoonDrawer Marketing
Vince Trotter, President of Harr Travel
Cost: $15 Members/ $25 non-members
The Catalonia Tourism Board Presentation Dinner
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Catalonia as a destination while enjoying a delightful dinner.
Space is limited to first 15 advisors.
SOLD OUT
Valet Parking included.
Join us for an exciting and interactive event designed exclusively for advisors and travel professionals! Kick off the night at our vibrant tradeshow featuring over 30 amazing supplier partners.
Indulge in delicious cocktails and a fantastic dinner while mingling with industry experts. Plus, don’t miss out on captivating presentations from our Premium Sponsors: Azamara Cruises, Tourism Australia, The Globus Family of Brands and Carnival Cruise Line!
This is your chance to connect, collaborate, and elevate your travel game in a fun and dynamic atmosphere. We can't wait to see you there!
Join us and industry partners from around the world as they highlight new products and updates.
EVENT TICKET PRICES
Members: $10
Non-members $25
2 tickets LAX-DUB courtesy of Aer Lingus
Travel Industry Partners joining us include:
The Palace Company
Riverside luxury Cruises
I World of Travel
Visit Jamaica
Emerging Destinations
Disney
Paul Gaugin Cruises
G Adventures
Norwegian Cruise Line
Viking
Visit Greater Palm Springs
Qatar Airways
Allianz
Carnival Cruise Line
Uniworld
Visit Los Cabos
Rocky Mountaineer
Corazon Cabo Resort & Spa
Azamara
Globus
Tourism Australia
Holland America Line
SilverSea
Princess Cruises
American Cruise Line
Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa
Amawaterways
Quark Expeditions
MSC
Fresh Tracks
Goway travel
Frenchbee
Virgin Voyages
Ker & Downey
Oceania
Visit Greater Palm Springs
Your San Diego ASTA chapter presents the first in our new series of workshops to help you learn or refresh critical skills for business success.
In this first session on August 14 at Seasons 52 La Jolla, join Holland America’s Angelle Morley and TTC Brands’ Mary Lee to work out a circuit of group strategies.
Here is just some of the coaching you can expect:
Warm Up: Learn where to find terrific group business
Pump It: Boost your groups with stellar marketing
Heavy Lifting: Hoist your planning and accounting expertise
Isolation: Secure coveted space on popular departures
Reps: See how HAL & TTC have your back with their group teams
Cool Down: Leave this bootcamp fit to promote a new group
Come prepared to exercise your brain with this functional training that will give you the confidence to sell more groups. Trust us: it’s no sweat! Just breathe.
Members: $15 / Non-members $25
Breakfast with Azul Ixtapa Hotels
Join us for an early morning treat.
Lorna Rebollar representing Azul Ixtapa Hotels will be here to highlight their properties and update us on new products.
Come and explore the best option for your next vacation or business trip in the Pacific. Two amazing properties in the newly awarded “Pueblo Magico” Azul Ixtapa Hotel offers Luxury Ocean View rooms, three buffet restaurants, two specialty restaurants, three bars in the pool area, a lobby bar, a snack bar, and a Coffee Corner. Enjoy our two pools and let the little ones have fun in the best children’s water park in the destination. Experience our Bicycle Tour through the ecological reserve of Ixtapa. Our Sailboat and Kayak Tours invite you to navigate the paradisiacal waters in the Pacific.
Azul Ixtapa Grand offers Luxury Ocean View Suites with a terrace and jacuzzi. It has a buffet restaurant, three specialty restaurants, Grill restaurant and Catch of the Day events, three bars in the pool area, a Lobby bar, a Snack bar, and a Coffee Corner. Enjoy three swimming pools, our gym with cutting-edge technology. At our Itsi Spa we offer you the ideal treatment so that you can find balance between mind and spirit.
For business, reunions, and incentive groups, we offer the largest convention center in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo with over 20,000 square feet of space. https://instagram.com/azulixtapa
PRIZES*
Certificate for 2-nights at Azul Ixtapa
*must be a current ASTA member to enter drawing
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority + Visit Reno + Travel Nevada are teaming up to thank and celebrate YOU, our travel advisors for continuing to inspire travel.
We will be visiting San Diego to personally show our appreciation. Please join us for an evening of fun, food, and education, not only from the authority but from several of our attractions and resorts. We are excited to host this in-person event, allowing you to network with our Nevada partners and learn about what’s new and trending statewide.
Details of your attendance will be confirmed via email prior to the event.
Presenters include Scott Fujinaga of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority and others.
Multiple Hotel and Attraction Experience Giveaways*
*ASTA members only
SPAIN & PORTUGAL
Discover why booking with Sagres Vacations will help you grow your sales. Our exclusive private curated itineraries allow your client to have authentic and immersive experiences and more importantly be impressed by your ability to create a personalized travel itinerary where they have their own concierge.
Learn how you can provide this level of service and create your own commission levels for each client. Earn your Worth with Sagre Vacations.
Presented by:
Marco Fernandes, Sacres Vacations, Vice President
Sarges Vacation’s mission is to create an unforgettable travel experience that will immerse you in the culture, food, and history of Portugal and Spain. They are passionate about these beautiful countries, and our goal is to share their treasures with the world.
From local guides who know the ins and outs of Portuguese and Spanish life, to charming accommodations in historic buildings and scenic locations, our travel arrangements combine comfort and authenticity. Whether you want to explore the vibrant streets of Lisbon, savor the culinary delights of Barcelona, or relax on the beautiful beaches of the Algarve, we have the expertise to curate an unforgettable journey for you.
Join Sagres Vacations as your trusted travel partner as you embark on a remarkable adventure through the enchanting lands of Portugal and Spain.
All attendees will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card courtesy of Sarges Vacations.
Costa Brava, located in the northeastern region of Catalonia, Spain, is a stunning coastal area renowned for its rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters. It stretches from the town of Blanes, just northeast of Barcelona, to the French border. The region offers a mix of picturesque beaches, charming fishing villages, and vibrant resort towns. Costa Brava is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with medieval towns like Tossa de Mar and Pals, as well as the artistic legacy of figures like Salvador Dalí, whose museum is located in Figueres. The area is a popular destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for hiking, diving, and exploring its scenic landscapes.
We are excited to announce, Zane Kirbey, President and CEO of ASTA will be joining our biggest event so far this year! We will have 38 of our top suppliers on hand for a Trade show as well as Presentations. Refreshments will be served and of course GREAT prizes!
LUNCH & LEARN for ASTA San Diego!
Join Debbie Horrilleno of Globus Family of Brands & Avalon Waterways, Tricia Halsema of Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, and Joe Miller from Windstar.
Learn about 3 different brands and how to reach your goals.
Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 12PM – 2PM
Location: Seasons 52 at 4505 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
Cost: No charge for ASTA Members / $15 Non - Members
These travel partners will show you what sets them apart from other brands. Globus Family of Brands and Avalon Waterways will provide updates and help you reach your goals this year with exciting new itineraries and products to share! Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel will highlight their package product along with private charters. Windstar will highlight their ships and educate on their itineraries.
We are so excited to bring you the 3rd edition of Emerging Destinations Roadshow where our clients from around the world are traveling to the US to meet you fine folks! Our portfolio boasts high end, adventure properties, DMCs and small cruise lines from Africa, The Americas and Europe. Below is the list of companies that you'll hear from during our lunch together. We are looking forward to seeing you there!
Date: March 5th, 2024 - 12PM – 2PM
Location: Barbarella Restaurant - 2171 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
Cost: No charge for ASTA Members / $15 Non - Members
👇🏽 👇🏽 Join us to learn more! 👇🏽👇🏽
"Pax More" Greece
"Enchanted Expeditions" Ecuador/The Galapagos
"JW Marriott Masai Mara" Kenya
“Adventure Consults" Uganda/Rwanda
"Atua Enkop" Kenya
"Sierra Leone"
"Guyana Tourism Authority"
"Mara Siana" Kenya
"Anantara" Zambia & Mozambique
"Hidalgo Tours" Bolivia
Join Cory Payton from Goway Travel, Caroleen Leverrier from Frenchbee Airline and Joshua Poole from Marriott International Caribbean & Latin America Resorts Learn how to customize a one-of-a-kind FIT for your valued clients
Date: February 7th 12PM – 2PM – Lunch and Learn
Location: Seasons 52 at 4505 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
Cost: No charge for ASTA Members / $15 Non - Members
These travel partners will show you how easy it is to create a special and unique CUSTOMIZED vacation option for your valued clients. Goway Travel can help with air, hotels and sightseeing around the globe; Frenchbee Airlines can send your clients to Paris and/or Tahiti! And of course, Marriot International has amazing luxury properties throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.
Join us to learn more!
SOLD OUT!
Join Jackie, Karen and Vince for an update on three of your favorite travel brands.
Date: January 10th 12PM – 2PM – Lunch and Learn
Location: Seasons 52 at 4505 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
Cost: $20 ASTA Members / $25 Non - Members
Want to increase your revenue by selling cruise and rail? Uniworld has you covered. Learn about Rocky Mountaineer’s Canadian & U.S. routes. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line is anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Icon of the Seas!!!
So much to be excited about, join us for a fun lunch to kick off Wave Season!”
We’d love to hear from you! Follow ASTA San Diego on Facebook or reach us via email.