Travel advisors talk resort trends, all-inclusives, and new properties.
What’s trending or new and notable right now when it comes to hotels and resorts?
JG: Travellers are looking beyond the basics—they want experiences that feel meaningful. I’m seeing strong demand for resorts that offer immersive culinary programs, private or small-group excursions, and standout features like overwater bungalows, rooftop pools and ultra-private accommodations.
SD: Dining seems to be evolving for many brands. New global influences are being highlighted and infused, adding fresh new flavours and making the experience at an old favourite property a new one on the next visit. Entertainment and activities are also changing. Beach volleyball, the disco and the nightly show are no longer the only options for guests. Brands are now offering cooking classes, sip and paint groups, wine, rum and mezcal tasting, macrame classes, appointments with nutritionists, bicycling on and off property, cacao experiences, aerial yoga–I could go on and on!
Are all-inclusive bookings still the most in-demand type of stay for Canadian travellers?
JG: Absolutely. All-inclusives remain a top choice, especially for Canadians looking to escape the cold without stressing over fluctuating costs. But what’s changed is the level of expectation. Clients are gravitating toward high-end, luxury all-inclusives where the dining is exceptional, the atmosphere is intimate, and the service feels personal. Sandals, Beaches, and the Hyatt Inclusive Collection continue to be client favourites—especially when added perks like room upgrades or resort credits are layered in.
SD: We have been noticing an increase in cruise and Europe requests but all-inclusive is still our highest demand. We do have clients looking for an all-inclusive experience in destinations outside of the Caribbean.
Which new hotel or resort are you most excited about and what sets it apart?
JG: Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is one I’m truly excited about. It’s a fresh destination for the brand and offers that rare “untouched Caribbean” feel. The lush rainforest backdrop meeting the coastline creates a unique setting that’s ideal for clients who’ve been everywhere and want something off the radar—but still luxurious.
SD: I just returned from Secrets Playa Esmeralda in Miches, Dominican Republic and it was beautiful and the neighbouring Dreams Playa Esmeralda will make this an amazing option for clients who are ready for something new in the DR. The new Dreams has so many new additions in the Core Zone and Explorer’s Club. The convention centre and ball rooms are innovative and stunning. There are some great new dining options. My favourite was Doña Altagracia, which featured specialty Dominican cuisine. The beach goes on for miles and the ocean has so many variations of blue. This destination is perfect for those desiring an uninterrupted beachfront by a small coastal town.
What are some of the hotel and resort brands that are the most trade-friendly and why?
JG: Sandals Resorts consistently go above and beyond for the trade. Their support is unmatched—from the helpful BDM team to the robust loyalty program and booking tools. FAMs are immersive and educational, and their P2P program and agent rates make it easier to experience the product firsthand. I also love working with the Canlink portfolio—resorts like Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet in Saint Lucia or Sea Breeze and O2 in Barbados not only deliver exceptional guest experiences but offer incredible support for advisors as well.
SD: The Hyatt All-Inclusive Collection sales team provides so many opportunities to stay up-to-date with their product and give us many opportunities to meet the resort weddings and sales teams. Brian Joseph and Heather Kearns host lunch and learn events that allow agents the chance to learn and develop our own relationships directly with those on property. AIC Hotel Group offers many FAM and training opportunities throughout the year and our BDM Jasmine Grant, provides one-on-one meetings focused on our goals and business development/marketing planning focused on our brand. It’s not about the brand alone. It’s also the people who represent them and the genuine mutual relationships they build.
What tips do you have for new travel advisors looking to increase their bookings?
JG: Niche down and get visible. You don’t need to know everything before you start—just focus on being the expert in one thing, whether that’s a destination, brand, or style of travel. Then get out there: use video, show your face, share what you know. Trust builds through visibility. And never underestimate the power of referrals and follow-up—they’re the backbone of a thriving travel business.
SD: Learn the product. You can’t know everything about every brand but whatever you choose to sell, know it. Speak about it enthusiastically. And when you think you’ve learned it all, go back and learn something new. This industry is ever changing and we need to continuously educate ourselves to be the experts we declare to create great experiences for our clients so they can confidently send referrals. Be a specialist and not a generalist. Remember that you can specialize in more than one segment. Create a business plan and update it continuously as you grow.
What resorts have you recently toured that impressed you?
JG: I recently toured five standout resorts in Saint Lucia that each offer something unique for different types of travellers. Jade Mountain was breathtaking, with its open-air sanctuaries and uninterrupted views of the Pitons. I would definitely recommend it for a discerning luxury seeking client. Anse Chastanet offers a more laid-back, eco-conscious experience with a strong connection to local culture and nature, and it’s great for active families. Sandals Grande St. Lucian impressed me with its prime location on a private peninsula, calm waters, and access to two additional Sandals properties, making it perfect for couples or groups. Sandals Halcyon Beach and Sandals Regency La Toc also have their own unique offerings that will impress guests.
Which hotel or resort will you be checking out next?
JG: My goal is to get to Sandals Saint Vincent or Sandals Royal Curacao to check out the full Sandals 2.0 concept. Both resorts showcase the brand’s evolution with elevated design and immersive experiences (one that stands out to me is the Island Inclusive Dining program in Curacao!). Either one would be an incredible opportunity to see where the brand is headed next.
SD: I’ll be taking the kids to Dreams Natura and Sapphire before school starts and then heading to Dreams Madeira for Christmas and New Years!
Do you have anything to add?
JG: Clients are being more intentional with how they spend their vacation dollars—and they’re turning to experts who can guide them with insight, care, and creativity. Working with advisor-friendly brands and tapping into networks like Virtuoso helps me deliver elevated, personalized experiences that truly wow clients and bring them back for repeat business.
