FTA & Member News

The countdown to Epic has officially begun! Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated fourth theme park-Universal Epic Universe-will officially open on May 22, 2025, unlocking the portals to five astounding worlds that will bring to life extraordinary adventures that go beyond attendees’ wildest imaginations. Universal Epic Universe is the most ambitious theme park Universal Destinations and Experiences…

As a new year quickly approaches, group travel professionals have their sights set on the future and what it takes to be successful in 2025. But what’s got travelers feeling excited to hit the road in 2025? Come along as we find out. Expedia Group’s Unpack ’25 examined what’s motivating travelers and where they will go next…

Multi-generational travel is undoubtedly a growing sector of the group travel market. According to the Family Travel Association (FTA) 2023 U.S. Family Travel Survey, over 50% of parents say they’re planning to travel with both their grandparents and children, indicating more family groups on the road. MULTI-GENERATIONAL TRAVEL’S POPULARITY Ken Shapiro, President of the Board for FTA, says…

Just outside of downtown Atlanta, Georgia, Discover DeKalb represents a group of cities and towns with a hugely diverse selection of travel offerings. Discover DeKalb works closely year-round with local attractions and hotels, motorcoaches, and tour advisors to help bring tourism to the area. Over the past year since the CVB joined the Family Travel…

Recently, COLTUR’s CEO, Miguel Velasco, together with his wife and children, ventured into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, enjoying an exploration of the wonders of the Tambopata National Reserve. A boat, modern eco-lodge in the depths of the forest, observation tower, reflective canoe ride, research center, and countless majestic jungle animals-they experienced it all.…

Exploring fall colors and more in these top national parks. From golden aspens to crimson maples, there are perhaps no better places to revel in fall’s natural splendor than in a national park. Of the 63 national parks in the U.S., several are situated perfectly to welcome groups hoping to catch some views of the…

Respondents in our survey were asked to identify areas where they would like the industry to improve on how well it serves traveling families. Commonly raised issues include: The challenge and added cost of being seated together on flights. The scarcity of family rooms or connected rooms in hotels. The high cost of family travel,…

In a recent Lunch & Learn, we heard all about the future of space tourism from Dawn Androsky, space explorer and independent franchise owner of Cruise Planners – Global Travitude. Dawn took us on an out-of-this-world journey into her upcoming adventure with Space Perspective’s Spaceship Neptune, when she’ll take a luxury trip beyond Earth’s atmosphere…

Prior to 2020, many of us had long-existing industry contacts with whom we’d built strong relationships over the course of several years, perhaps even decades. We were always growing, of course, but these thriving connections were not only a benefit to the jobs we do each day, but were downright enjoyable to have! Fast forward…

Nestled in the heart of the South American country, you’ll find Coltur Peru, a destination management company with a history going back to 1957. As a family business, the closeknit team of experts join forces to “craft unparalleled travel adventures and orchestrate seamless operations.” When you work with Coltur Peru, you get access to decades…