Why I’m Attending The 2024 Wander Beyond Retreat

Unlocking Growth
Why I’m Attending the Wander Beyond Retreat 2024

As a travel advisor, it’s essential to find opportunities for growth and learning all year round. So, I’m thrilled to share that this October, I’ll be joining Cyndi Williams and a host of other travel industry experts at the Wander Beyond Retreat. This incredible experience will take place on Royal Caribbean’s newest ship—Utopia of the Seas. Today, I want to talk about why continuous professional development is so vital for great travel advisors, why I specifically chose this opportunity, and how this will benefit both me and my clients. Let’s dive in and Wander Beyond!

The Importance of Continuing Education for Travel Advisors

Continuing education is crucial for travel advisors like me. The travel industry moves fast, and it’s constantly changing, which means we must keep up with new trends, rules, and challenges. To stay ahead, advisors need solid connections with industry experts who understand these dynamics. People like Cyndi Williams, founder of Wanderlust Campus and the Wander Beyond Retreat, provide the essential tools to help advisors grow their businesses and adapt to industry shifts.

The speakers at this year’s event collectively bring over 40 years of industry experience. They’ve navigated challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which threw the travel industry into chaos. Because of this experience, they’ve become incredible problem-solver-skills that are now invaluable for facing industry-wide obstacles.

More than just staying updated, events like Wander Beyond offer a sense of community and collaboration. Meeting like-minded professionals in a focused environment has been indispensable for my own growth. Every time I attend an event like this, I come away with fresh ideas and a renewed passion for delivering the best service to my clients.

Why I Chose the Wander Beyond Retreat

Travel advisors have plenty of opportunities to attend conferences or retreats throughout the year. But Wander Beyond is unique, which is exactly why I picked this event. Wanderlust Campus Founder, Cyndi Williams has highlighted that the biggest differentiator of Wander Beyond is its focus on personal and professional growth for travel advisors, beyond just product promotions.

One key aspect that sets Wander Beyond apart is its independence from supplier sponsorships. Many other events are heavily funded by major suppliers—whether it’s cruise lines, resorts, or other travel vendors—meaning their primary focus is on promoting their products. Wander Beyond removes that influence, allowing the content to focus specifically on what advisors need: skills, resources, and education that address our challenges directly.

This approach resonates with me because it allows me to tailor my learning experience. I can choose sessions that will be most impactful for me now and in the future. Whether it’s business finance, social media strategies, client care techniques, or mindset development, I know I’ll leave with actionable steps for growing my business.

Lastly, Wander Beyond offers unique field trips that take learning to the next level. During these outings, experts share destination insights that are often relevant for travelers’ specific needs. I love the collaborative nature of these sessions—we’re encouraged to ask questions and learn from each other’s expertise. And, of course, being on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, with stops in Coco Cay and Nassau, Bahamas, makes it all the more exciting. I can’t wait to experience the ship firsthand and explore all the new attractions it offers.

The Culture of Wander Beyond and the Wanderlust Community

As a member of the Wanderlust Campus community, I have to say, I love the culture that Cyndi Williams and her team have cultivated. The community is welcoming and supportive. Unlike some competitive environments, here, we genuinely lift each other up, ask questions without hesitation, and learn from the experts and our peers. This atmosphere makes a big difference in how engaged and motivated I feel.

About Utopia of the Seas and the Ports of Call

Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas is the latest addition to their Oasis class ships. By the time the retreat starts, Utopia will have been sailing for only three months, visiting beautiful places like Nassau, Bahamas, and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Between Utopia and Coco Cay, there’s so much to do; 18 slides, 10 pools, 7 beaches, and even two kids’ aqua parks. It really is a paradise for anyone who loves the water.

But water lovers aren’t the only ones who’ll enjoy Utopia. Foodies will be in heaven with all the dining choices available. Classic favorites like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi are onboard, as well as fresh new concepts like Royal Railway, Utopia Station. And for those craving comfort food, The Mason Jar offers Southern soul food that’s sure to satisfy.