2025 Schedule of Events



We can’t wait to welcome you to Phoenix for ESTO 2025! As we build out the program, we’ll keep this page updated with fresh sessions designed to transform the way you approach destination marketing.

Rooted in the power of Ideas That Travel, every session is thoughtfully crafted to spark bold ideas and innovative strategies you can take home to shape the future of your destination. All sessions will be held at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. Stay tuned for more!

Conference Credentials: All delegates are issued a non-transferable name badge at registration, which is required for admission to all official ESTO functions. If you lose your name badge, please visit registration.

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Tuesday, August 13
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11:30am - 12:30pm

All Access

  • Customizing Travel Experiences Amid Evolving Consumer Trends
    A120 - A125
    Greater Columbus Convention Center
    Details
    Understanding and adapting to new consumer demands and trends is essential for a destination’s success. This session will delve into the evolving consumer landscape and examine how leading travel brands are engaging today’s dynamic consumer. From luxury travel to culinary adventures to digital detoxes and everything in between, this session will explore how to use data-driven insights into the consumer trends reshaping how we connect with and market to travelers.

CEO/CMO

  • Tapping into a People First Leadership Approach
    A223 - A225
    Greater Columbus Convention Center
    Details

    In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective leadership hinges on more than just strategic vision—it's also about harnessing the full potential of your team. Join us for a transformative session, featuring Keynote Speaker Sally Hogshead, creator of the Fascinate System™ as she provides insights into her assessment tool as a means to support a people-first leadership approach by helping executives create a common language for their team to skillfully navigate productive conflict, enable clear expectations for the individual and the team, and coach individuals to be their best. Join fellow CEOs and CMOs for an open forum conversation on how assessment tools can help leaders facilitate team development by providing insights that can inform decision-making, optimize team strengths, and ultimately achieve greater success.

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3:25pm - 4:25pm

All Access

  • Beyond Cliches and Tourist Traps: Creating and Marketing Authentic Travel Experiences
    Sponsored by
    Afar
    A120 - A125
    Greater Columbus Convention Center
    Details

    In a world inundated by screens, Millennials and Gen Z seek meaningful and authentic connections as gateways to understanding cultures beyond the surface. Community voices and immersive experiences resonate with today’s travelers and influence booking decisions. In this session, panelists will share successful approaches to engaging these consumers and driving record-breaking visitation, from partnering with local communities to showcasing unique experiences and bringing to life the heart and soul of a destination. Through case studies and discussions with experts, you’ll walk away with insights, best practices, and tactics for creating and supporting authentic travel, building community relationships, and promoting values-driven tourism that resonates with younger audiences and contributes to environmental and cultural sustainability.