Upper Midwest ASTA

06/17/2026

Thanks to everyone who attended our Networking River Cruise and gave a donation to support ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors's vital advocacy efforts.

Together, we raised over $1,000 to help ASTA represent our interests in Washington, DC and state capitals.

Haven't donated yet? Click below today:

I'm fundraising for American Society of Travel Advisors Inc. It's an amazing organization. Everybody please check out my campaign! Find out more and donate here: https://igfn.us/vf/ASTAPAC/team/UpperMidwest

06/16/2026

A beautiful evening to network and learn…on the river!

06/11/2026

🚢 ASTA Virtual Expedition Cruise Week is back!
📅 July 14–17, 2026

Discover how to sell one of travel’s fastest-growing segments with expert-led training, cruise line insights, valuable resources, and exciting prizes—including a chance to win a free sailing with Lindblad Expeditions.

✨ ASTA Verified Travel Advisors (VTAs) register FREE! ✨

Register today: bit.ly/4tRorRh

🚢🌎

ASTA’s Virtual Expedition Cruise Week is back! Join us July 14-17 for an interactive, expert-led event focused on selling one of travel’s fastest-growing sectors. If your clients are craving their next big adventure, you won't want to miss this in-depth training on everything from qualifying expedition travelers to booking seamless journeys to the world’s most remote destinations.

Whether you are new to expedition cruising or looking to strengthen your expertise, this immersive virtual event will expand your knowledge and confidence and help you to sell this segment better!

What's included:

✅ Access to 7 live General Sessions & dozens of sales resources from expedition cruise line partners
✅ On-demand access to all sessions and digital resources for one-year after the event
✅ Connections to expedition cruise line executives and BDMs
✅ Chances to win amazing prices, including a free sailing with Lindblad Expeditions

✨ASTA Verified Travel Advisors (VTAs) enjoy complimentary registration!✨

Learn more and register now: bit.ly/4tRorRh

06/04/2026

At our annual networking river cruise on the St. Croix on June 16th, we'll be raising funds to support ASTAPAC, ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors's political advocacy program. It helps give our industry an important voice at the public policy table, both nationally and in our home states.

Can't join us on June 16th? You can still support ASTAPAC:

I'm fundraising for American Society of Travel Advisors Inc. It's an amazing organization. Everybody please check out my campaign! Find out more and donate here: https://igfn.us/vf/ASTAPAC/team/UpperMidwest

06/02/2026

Happy Summer, ASTA Upper Midwest Chapter members!
Join us for our annual Networking River Cruise on Tuesday, June 16th. We’ll set sail on the beautiful St. Croix River from Stillwater at 5:00pm sharp.
Cost:
$35 ASTA Members • $45 Non‑Members
Space is limited — reserve your spot today!

https://tinyurl.com/s5j7hv8p

06/02/2026

🌍 Virtual Expedition Week 2026
Master the Experience. Understand the Product. Sell with Confidence.
Learn directly from top expedition cruise brands and discover the differences between polar and tropical expeditions. Build the skills, insight, and confidence to match every traveler with the perfect adventure.
⭐ Featuring:
Aurora • HX • NatGeo–Lindblad • Polar Latitudes • Scenic • Silversea • Viking
🎤 Panels & Sessions:
On‑board Life • Warm‑Weather Expeditions • Science & Stewardship • Women in Expeditions • Sales Game Plan • Digital Marketing • VTA Program • Fireside Chat
📅 Dates:
July 14–17, 2026
💲 Pricing:
Members $29 • Non‑Members $59 • VTAs FREE
✔️ Includes:
Live sessions, one‑year on‑demand access, sales tools, cruise line connections, and chances to win educational journeys.

https://tinyurl.com/yc2ftydz

05/06/2026

05/06/2026

No matter where you are in your business journey, having a mentor can accelerate your growth and help you confidently navigate the travel and tourism industry.

Now in our third year, this ASTA nationwide program has already earned two consecutive awards for Best Overall Education Program—a testament to the impact and value it delivers.

Through one-on-one mentorship, you’ll gain meaningful insights and access to resources that elevate both your personal and professional development. Beyond advancing your career, mentorship strengthens self-worth, builds confidence, and helps you cultivate the leadership skills and executive presence needed for long-term success.

Application deadline is May 31, 2026. More here:

02/13/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/1AwBk6f8y3/

ASTA Urges CBP to Rethink ESTA Social Media Requirement

ASTA representing more than 300,000 Americans employed by travel agencies nationwide, submitted formal comments to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) expressing significant concerns regarding proposed changes to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application.

The proposal, issued pursuant to Executive Order 14161, would require Visa Waiver Program travelers to the United States to disclose up to five years of social media history as a mandatory component of the ESTA process.

“ASTA fully supports the federal government’s responsibility to protect national security and maintain the integrity of our borders,” said Peter Lobasso, Senior Vice President, Industry Affairs and General Counsel at ASTA. “However, the proposed mandatory collection of social media data raises significant privacy, economic and competitive concerns that warrant careful review and greater transparency.”

🔗 Read the full press release here: https://bit.ly/4kwPRJ7

11/12/2025

🇯🇲 How You Can Support Hurricane Relief Efforts in Jamaica
Our hearts are with everyone in Jamaica impacted by Hurricane Melissa. 💛

ASTA stands with our partners, colleagues, and friends across the island as they begin the road to recovery.

The Sandals Foundation is leading vital relief efforts—providing immediate aid, supporting recovery operations, and restoring hope to the communities most affected.

💙 Every contribution helps deliver emergency supplies, rebuild infrastructure, and support those in need across Jamaica.

👉 Learn more and donate today: https://tinyurl.com/39bmc68b

Join the Sandals Foundation in providing hurricane relief for communities across Jamaica impacted by Hurricane Melissa. Donate to help rebuild homes and restore hope.