President’s Newsletter

July 2026

Hi Members,

ASTA National Update:

Virtual VTA “Fast Track” Training

On July 20, the Legal team presented its first-ever virtual Fast Track training for over 200 advisors in the

Signature Travel Network. The four-hour session covered all the material in the core VTA courses as well

as two in-depth ethics case studies. As of Wednesday afternoon, 162 advisors had taken the test, of

which 113 (nearly 70%) received a passing score.

ASTAPAC Fundraising Maintains Strong Momentum

Through June, ASTAPAC has raised $475,189.90 for the current election cycle (2025-2026)! We remain on

pace to exceed our stretch goals, and our focus for the remainder of the year is expanding participation

as our membership continues to grow, ensuring we support our friends in Congress before the November

elections. On behalf of the Advocacy team, thank you to all of our members who contributed to ASTAPAC.

New Chapters and Chapter Presidents Announced

ASTA announced the launch of three new chapters in Greater Nashville, Northeast Pennsylvania and

Greater Wichita, along with several new Chapter President appointments across the country. With 54

chapters, more than 250 volunteer leaders and 200 annual meetings and events, ASTA continues

strengthening local engagement across the travel advisor community.

National Events:

Caribbean Showcase Aug 22 – 26, St Kitts. Use code CHAPTER200 to save $200

The Summit, Oct 14 – 16, Denver

Vietnam Fam, Nov 6 – 16

River Cruise Expo, Mar 10 – 14, 2027

2027 Travel Advisor Conference, May 4 – 6, Orlando

Check the website for all event information. ASTA Website

2026 Local ASTA San Diego Events – Our board has been busy setting up events for the rest of this year

and into 2027!!!

• August 11 – Exotica Lunch and Learn at Seasons 52, 11:30 am

• September 22 – Fall Festival, Del Mar Hilton, 4 – 7 pm

• October 27 – Taiwan Tourist Board Event TBD

• November 17 – Friendsgiving Lunch Royal Caribbean & Silversea, Seasons 52, 11:30 am

• December 15 – Holiday Party, Rancho Bernardo Inn, 5 – 9 PM.

San Diego ASTA FAM Opportunities

• Scottsdale – October 4-7, 2026 SOLD OUT

• Croatia – October 2027 – still working on details.

Watch your email and our website for updates, applications, and deadlines. San Diego ASTA

Support ASTAPAC

Your contributions strengthen our chapter and our industry.

See the attached Advocacy Team update for the latest on state and federal efforts—they’ve been working

hard on our behalf.

Donate Here

Warm regards,

Tracy Anderson, CTC

President, San Diego ASTA