2025 Annual Letter to Our Traveler Nation

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Dear Traveler Nation,

In early 2025, I did something I should have done long ago—I went to Cancun.

It was my first trip to this destination, and honestly, I wasn't sure what to expect. But from the moment I arrived, I was blown away. The resorts we visited were stunning. The staff we encountered treated us like family. The food exceeded every expectation. And the sense of safety we felt as we explored the area? That was everything.

But here's where it got real: when we were set to come home, our transfer didn't show up. We had to use an Uber to get to the airport—not a vetted transfer service, just a person making a living by driving people to the airport. And you know what? We felt safe. The driver was professional, the ride was smooth, and we made our flight.

But safe isn't good enough for my clients. I've since cut ties with that transfer company because I would never want you to have to scramble for an Uber when you're trying to get home. That said, knowing that if it came down to it, you'd be safe—that matters too. This trip wasn't just about experiencing the destination; it was about learning where the gaps are so I can fill them before you ever have to.

I left Cancun energized, inspired, and more committed than ever to getting you there—with every detail handled the right way. This wasn't just a vacation—it was a reminder of why I do what I do, and an important step for my business moving forward. I can't wait to send you to this destination with the confidence that only comes from experiencing it firsthand.

The Year of Value

If there was one word that defined 2025, it was value. And I don't mean price—I mean worth. What value does this trip bring to you? What experiences will you have? What memories will you create? What will you talk about for years to come?

This past year, I watched you prioritize experiences over transactions. You weren't looking for the cheapest option—you were looking for the right option. The one that made sense for your family, your budget, and your dreams. And because of that, I saw a massive uptick in ocean cruising and all-inclusive bookings. You wanted more from your trips this past year, and together, we delivered.

The results speak for themselves: bookings were up over 35% from 2024. And that doesn't happen without your trust. Your willingness to let me into your travel plans, to share your dreams with me, and to believe that I'll take care of you—that's what drives this business forward.

The Wins We Celebrated Together

Let me share some highlights from 2025:

We doubled both ocean cruise and all-inclusive bookings from 2024. You leaned into these experiences because they delivered value—more included, less stress, and memories that didn't come with a side of surprise fees.

We navigated a hurricane in Jamaica and created Plan B for a group of 20 to go on a cruise instead. When the storm hit and uncertainty followed, I didn't leave you hanging. We pivoted fast, moved that entire group to a cruise departure, and turned what could have been a disaster into an adventure. That's what separates working with a real person from clicking "book now" on a website.

We hit my biggest traveled number to date this year. Together, we surpassed $2 million in traveled sales. That number is inspiring. It represents countless families reconnecting, couples celebrating milestones, and memories being made all over the world. This isn't just a business metric—it's proof that when you trust someone with your travel dreams, magic happens.

We expanded into more all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Punta Cana, and other Caribbean destinations. The more I explore, the better I can serve you. And this year, I made it my mission to see these places with my own eyes so I could send you there with confidence.

But beyond the numbers, it was the moments that mattered most.

Your Stories, Your Memories

I worked with multiple families who hadn't done an all-inclusive trip in a long time—or ever. For these trips, I did specific site visits to their resorts so I could give them firsthand knowledge of what to expect. I walked the grounds. I ate in the restaurants. I talked to the staff. And when it came time to plan their vacations, they weren't going in blind—they were going in informed and excited.

I worked with a couple who were hesitant about going on a cruise for the first time. Fear and safety concerns are valid, and I never dismiss them. But we talked through what cruises offer—the variety, the convenience, the experiences—and I shared my own firsthand stories. You know what? They're cruise people now. They came back raving about it and already planning their next sailing.

We celebrated graduations, birthdays, and anniversaries all year long. These weren't just trips—they were milestones, and I was honored to be part of them.

I coordinated a multi-generational all-inclusive trip where three generations of one family came together under one roof (well, one resort). Balancing everyone's needs, schedules, and expectations? That's where the real work happens, and that's where I thrive.

And we sent first-time Disney families who came back with stories about after-hours parties, waterparks, and special character meals. These weren't cookie-cutter vacations—they were their vacations, designed specifically for them.

Every single one of these trips reinforced what I already know: travel isn't about the destination—it's about the transformation it brings.

2026: The Year We Evolve Together

As an agency, we've chosen a theme for 2026: EVOLVE.

It's the perfect word to describe how I want to work for you in the coming year. I want to evolve our relationships. I want to evolve the trips we plan. I want to evolve as a person to be better for you in 2026.

Simply put: In 2026, we evolve together.

Travel has the power to transform you, and together, we can achieve that. So here's what's ahead:

More site visits to new destinations. The best way for me to help you is by putting my eyes and my hands on a destination. When I've been there, I can tell you what's real, what's worth it, and what to skip.

Expanding group travel offerings. Groups are an amazing way to travel—reunions, friend groups, sports families, graduation trips. In 2026, I'd like to help you with your group. We can brainstorm together on what would be ideal for your crew. And speaking of groups, I'll be hosting one of my own this summer on an ocean cruise. If you want to join us, stay tuned—I'll have more details in the coming weeks.

Building better partnerships with cruise lines and resorts. These relationships benefit you directly—better pricing, exclusive perks, insider access. I'm doubling down on this in 2026.

Focusing on what you love most. All-inclusives, ocean cruising, and Orlando theme parks will be my main focus in 2026, with a secondary focus on domestic and European travel. This is where you're traveling, so this is where I'm investing my time.

Growing the Traveler Nation through events and experiences. This community is more than just clients—it's a movement. And I want to bring us together in new and exciting ways this year.

Gratitude

If you've read this far, thank you. And if you haven't—well, you won't see this anyway.

Before I close, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to each and every one of you. Whether you're a longtime member of our travel family, someone who recently discovered the magic of personalized travel planning, or considering joining our community—thank you for trusting me with your most precious moments.

Every adventure we've planned together, every memory we've crafted, and every relationship we've built has led to this. You are the heart and soul behind this success, and I couldn't be more grateful.

To my existing clients: Thank you for your continued trust and for sharing your travel stories with friends and family. Your referrals mean the world to me.

To those who've recently joined our Traveler Nation: Welcome to the family! I'm excited to help you create experiences that will last a lifetime.

To future travelers considering personalized travel planning: I can't wait to meet you and show you the difference that having your neighborhood travel professional makes.

To my wife, Courtney—thank you for supporting me through every late night, every site visit, and every moment this business needed me. None of this happens without you.

To my kids—watching you discover the world fills me with more joy than any trip I could ever plan. Every new experience lights up your eyes, and that reminds me why this work matters.

To my family and friends who've believed in me from day one—I don't say it enough, but I see you, and I'm grateful.

The new year motivates me to continue providing the authentic, transparent, and transformative experiences that set me apart from the DIY booking world. Together, we'll keep exploring, discovering, and creating those unforgettable moments that make travel truly magical.

Here's to 2026—the year we evolve together.

Talk Soon, Chris