In a recent survey conducted by the organizers of the Granite Travel Trade Expos, Europe has emerged as the top destination for both client travel and travel agent education for the 2025/2026 season. The upcoming Granite Travel Trade Fall Expos are set to commence on October 20, 2025, in Winnipeg, MB, and will conclude on November 6, 2025, in Hamilton, ON.
Key Findings from the Travel Survey
Conducted in August, the survey gathered insights from travel advisors nationwide, helping to identify trends for the upcoming travel season. Notably, a significant 75% of advisors marked Europe as the leading destination, with Asia trailing at 27.2%.
Learning and Destination Preferences
When asked about preferred destinations for educational purposes, travel agents prioritized Portugal (69.3%), followed by Japan (53%), Thailand (46.5%), Peru (38%), and Canada (26%). Notably, interest in the Caribbean and Sun destinations remains robust, with 68% of clients inclined toward Sun and all-inclusive options.
The Rise of Eco-Conscious Travel
Eco-friendly tourism is on the rise, although it has yet to become mainstream. Approximately 37.6% of travel advisors reported limited demand for eco-conscious options, while 26% noted increasing interest among younger travelers.
Client Interests and Booking Trends
Travel agents are observing a shift in client preferences, with the demand for cultural immersion (58.9%), cruise vacations (55.9%), and adventure travel experiences (51.5%) surging. Furthermore, 40% of clients are actively seeking to avoid crowded tourist destinations.
Notably, there’s a trend towards earlier booking, with almost half (45%) of clients now reserving travel 6 months or more in advance. In contrast, only 39% are booking trips 3 to 6 months ahead.
Technology Use in Travel Planning
When discussing technology during the trip planning phase, around 50.5% of advisors noted that clients still prefer direct, personalized service. Social media platforms are a source of inspiration for 45% of travelers, while 27.2% are utilizing AI travel planning tools.
About the Granite Travel Trade Expos
The Granite Travel Trade Expos consist of regional trade events that aim to bridge the gap between top-producing travel agents and industry suppliers in a more personalized setting compared to larger trade shows. Events focus on training and networking through in-person consultations and presentations.
Each Expo features a series of 15-minute presentations from various suppliers, followed by a networking dinner and prize giveaways. Sal Buccellatto, a well-known industry figure, will return as the social ambassador for these events.
Expo Schedule and Opportunities
Agents attending these expos can take advantage of complimentary offerings, including a $20 MasterCard for the first 50 attendees in each city, provided by Princess Hotels and Resorts. Registration will open a month prior to each event, with free attendance and parking options available. Agents can register by visiting this link.
Fall Expo Schedule:
- Winnipeg, MB: Oct. 20, 2025
- Red Deer, AB: Oct. 21, 2025
- Kelowna, BC: Oct. 22, 2025
- Surrey, BC: Oct. 23, 2025
- Ottawa: Nov. 3, 2025
- Kingston: Nov. 4, 2025
- Vaughan: Nov. 5, 2025
- Hamilton: Nov. 6, 2025
Vendor spaces for suppliers are limited, and additional dates for 2026 will be available for viewing online here.
