LAS VEGAS – Ensemble wrapped up its highly anticipated annual event, Horizons with over 800 travel agency owners, managers, advisors and key supplier partners in attendance.
Taking place at Resorts World Las Vegas from Sept. 16-19, the event focused on the theme ‘The Power of You,’ inspiring and empowering travel professionals during a time of unprecedented growth and opportunity in the industry.
THE GOLDEN AGE OF THE TRAVEL ADVISOR
In his opening address, Ensemble President Michael Johnson set the tone for the event by outlining Ensemble’s ambitious vision to transform the travel industry by redefining what a consortium can offer. He emphasized Ensemble’s unique approach, saying, “We are a partner that starts by listening to you, and then uses size, scale, and innovation to develop solutions to real problems. We aren’t trying to be a traditional consortium but are focused on building something different that truly meets the needs of today’s travel advisors.”
Johnson also touched on what he called the “Golden Age of the Travel Advisor,” noting that the influence of advisors has never been stronger. He explained how Ensemble is positioned to support this by providing cutting-edge tools, technology, and services, such as the new Ensemble Air Concierge platform. This platform allows advisors to tap into the booming air travel market, projected to double by 2040 according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), while simplifying the booking process for both advisors and clients.
TAILORED CONTENT FOR A DIVERSE AUDIENCE
Recognizing the varying levels of experience within its membership, Ensemble curated the Horizons agenda into three distinct tracks. New advisors attended practical sessions on booking air and hotels and leveraging marketing programs, while experienced advisors learned about industry trends such as family travel and “set jetting,” inspired by destinations featured in popular films and TV shows. Meanwhile, agency owners and managers focused on wealth management and long-term success planning.
The event also provided networking opportunities, with more than 300 key industry partners in attendance, including representatives from luxury brands like AmaWaterways, Accor, Crystal, Hilton, and Royal Caribbean.
NEW TOOLS FOR ADVISORS
Ensemble’s proprietary platform, ADX (Agent Digital Experience), was a focal point of discussion at Horizons. The platform has undergone significant updates to streamline the booking process, offering enhanced profitability and simplified booking across multiple services. Johnson likened ADX to an iPhone, with its various tools acting as “apps” that advisors can use according to their needs.
Kristina Boyce, SVP of Operations, introduced several new initiatives designed to support advisors, including a Member Portal, website-building tools, and advanced booking widgets for packaged vacations and essential travel information.
GIVING BACK
The event wasn’t just about business. Ensemble continued its commitment to social impact by spotlighting the ‘Legacy of War Foundation and its Land for Women’ initiative in Rwanda, which aims to economically empower women through sustainable farming. Over $200,000 was raised through donations and a silent auction to fund a new farm, helping lift 100 women and their families out of poverty.
AWARD WINNERS
Horizons culminated in a gala event where Ensemble recognized its top members and partners with awards. The full list of winners includes:
- Hotel Collection of the Year: Hyatt Inclusive Collection
- Hotel Chain of the Year: Hilton Hotels & Resorts
- Ocean Cruise Partner of the Year: Oceania Cruises
- River Cruise Partner of the Year: AmaWaterways
- Expedition Cruise Partner of the Year: Silversea Cruises
- Luxury Cruise Partner of the Year: Explora Journeys
- Family Cruise Partner of the Year: Royal Caribbean International
- Top Partner, Land, Canada: WestJet Vacations
- Top US Tour Operator: Apple Leisure Group
- Top Tour Operator, North America: Globus Family of Brands
- Travel Insurance, USA: Allianz
- Travel Insurance, Canada: Manulife
- Destination Management Company (DMC) of the Year: Titanium Tours & Travelive
- Adventure Partner of the Year: G Adventures
- Fastest Growing Hotel Partner: Omni Hotels
- Top Air Partner: Delta Air Lines
- Tourism Board of the Year: Jamaica Tourist Board
- Overall Partner of the Year: Royal Caribbean International
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Ensemble also announced its lineup of events for 2025-26, including Uncharted, a virtual event in January 2025, and Horizons 2026, scheduled to return to Resorts World Las Vegas in May 2026.
For more information on Ensemble and its membership benefits, visit www.joinensemble.com.
