Jus Adventures News

Jus Adventures Tours Norwegian Cruise Line's Newest Ship, Norwegian Aqua

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:14:32 GMT

The Jus Adventures team recently had the privilege of touring Norwegian Cruise Line's newest vessel, the Norwegian Aqua, during an exclusive visit while the ship was docked in Manhattan.

The pre-boarding experience gave us the opportunity to explore the ship before guests arrived, allowing our team to get an up-close look at the accommodations, public spaces, dining venues, lounges, and many of the unique features that make this ship stand out.

As travel professionals, firsthand product knowledge is invaluable. Walking the ship, experiencing its atmosphere, and learning about its offerings allows us to better guide our clients and equip our hosted advisors with the insights they need to create unforgettable cruise vacations.

The visit concluded with a wonderful hosted lunch and the chance to connect with our travel industry partners. We extend our sincere thanks to Amanda Lutricuso, Director of Member Relations at Ensemble , and Gina Mancuso with Norwegian Cruise Line for their hospitality and for providing such an informative and memorable experience.

At Jus Adventures, we believe the best recommendations come from real-world experiences, and we're excited to bring what we learned aboard the Norwegian Aqua to our clients and advisor community.

Norwegian Aqua at a Glance:
• Year Built: 2025
• Guest Capacity: 3,565 (double occupancy)
• Overall Length: 1,056 feet
• A new generation of cruising designed for unforgettable adventures

Samantha Hammond Shares Insights on Group Travel, Client Relationships, and DMC Partnerships on Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:31:56 GMT

Jus Adventures Founder Samantha Hammond recently returned as a featured co-host on the Host Agency Reviews Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15 Podcast, joining host Shayna Zand for another engaging discussion focused on real-world questions submitted by travel advisors.

The weekly Friday 15 series provides practical guidance for travel professionals by tackling common industry challenges in a conversational and educational format. During this episode, Samantha drew from her experience as a travel advisor, host agency founder, and longtime group travel organizer to answer questions about hosted group trips, client communication, and the role of Destination Management Companies (DMCs). (Watch the episode below)

Building Your First Group Trip

Drawing from her years of experience organizing hosted group trips, Samantha encouraged newer advisors to first understand their host agency's policies regarding client payments and package pricing. She emphasized the importance of clear terms and conditions, transparent communication, and starting with a smaller, manageable group before expanding into larger hosted experiences.

Building Client Relationships Without Being Sales-Focused

The second question focused on client retention and communication.

An advisor had booked a high-value cruise client on multiple sailings but was unsure how often to follow up regarding pre-cruise hotel accommodations and travel insurance without appearing overly sales-oriented.

Samantha's response centered on relationship-building rather than selling. Because the client's travel date was still far in the future, she recommended periodic, low-pressure check-ins that focus on providing support rather than generating additional revenue.

Her advice reinforced a key principle many successful advisors embrace: clients want to feel supported, not marketed to. Throughout the discussion, Samantha highlighted the importance of meeting clients where they are, understanding that life often gets busy, and recognizing that delayed responses do not necessarily signal a lack of interest.

DMCs, FITs, and the Bigger Picture Beyond Commission

When discussing DMCs versus building custom FIT itineraries, Samantha acknowledged that independently built trips may sometimes generate higher commissions. However, she encouraged advisors to look beyond commission alone and consider factors such as time, client experience, local expertise, and risk management. She noted that many successful advisors utilize a hybrid approach, combining the flexibility of FIT planning with the support and destination knowledge of trusted DMC partners.

Most importantly, Samantha reminded advisors that their value extends far beyond booking logistics. Advisors remain the curator, advocate, and trusted resource for their clients, regardless of which suppliers or partners are involved behind the scenes.

Empowering Advisors Through Practical Education

Throughout the episode, Samantha shared practical, experience-driven advice designed to help advisors make informed business decisions while delivering exceptional client experiences. Her insights reflected Jus Adventures' ongoing commitment to supporting travel professionals through education, mentorship, and real-world industry expertise. (Watch the episode below)

Jus Adventures Receives an Exclusive First Look at the Restored Waldorf Astoria New York

Sat, 23 May 2026 19:07:02 GMT

For travelers seeking the perfect blend of timeless New York history and modern luxury, the newly restored Waldorf Astoria New York is preparing to once again become one of Manhattan’s most unforgettable destinations.

Our founder, Samantha Hammond of Jus Adventures , recently received an exclusive first look inside the legendary Park Avenue property following its extraordinary eight-year, $2 billion restoration. The iconic hotel has been thoughtfully reimagined to offer guests a refined luxury experience while preserving the timeless elegance and historic charm that made the Waldorf Astoria a New York City landmark for generations.

Whether planning an elevated New York City staycation or visiting from outside the city for a true luxury travel experience, the restored Waldorf Astoria offers something uniquely special. From its iconic Art Deco interiors to its rich cultural history, the property delivers the kind of classic New York atmosphere that travelers often dream about when visiting Manhattan.

Originally opened in 1931, the Waldorf Astoria has hosted presidents, royalty, celebrities, and world leaders throughout its nearly century-long legacy. The restoration, led by renowned architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) alongside celebrated designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, carefully preserved many of the hotel’s most recognizable historic spaces while introducing sophisticated modern upgrades throughout the property.

Today, the transformed hotel features 375 beautifully redesigned guest rooms and suites, each created with a more spacious residential-style feel that combines comfort, elegance, and contemporary luxury. Guests can also experience restored landmark spaces including Peacock Alley, the Grand Ballroom, the Park Avenue foyer, and the hotel’s iconic clock lounge — all meticulously revived to honor the building’s original grandeur.

What makes the Waldorf Astoria especially appealing for both local and international travelers is its ability to offer more than just a hotel stay. It creates an experience deeply connected to New York City itself. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, guests are surrounded by some of the city’s most famous attractions, luxury shopping destinations, fine dining, and cultural landmarks while still enjoying the exclusivity and sophistication the Waldorf Astoria is known for.

Walking through the restored interiors, Samantha experienced firsthand how the property seamlessly balances historic preservation with contemporary luxury. Every detail — from the restored Art Deco finishes to the newly designed guest spaces — reflects a commitment to creating an elevated experience for modern travelers while honoring the building’s extraordinary legacy.

For those looking to experience New York City through the lens of classic luxury, history, and timeless elegance, the Waldorf Astoria’s new chapter is one worth discovering.

For more information, visit Waldorf Astoria New York .

Photos courtesy of Waldorf Astoria New York.

Jus Adventures South Africa Tour Recap

Mon, 11 May 2026 21:00:04 GMT

At Jus Adventures, we believe that firsthand experience is one of the most powerful tools a travel advisor can have — and recently, our Host Agency Manager Debra had the opportunity to experience that firsthand during an incredible Travel Advisor FAM trip hosted by Dome Travels.

What began as a familiarization trip through South Africa quickly evolved into an unforgettable journey across multiple breathtaking destinations. The itinerary included exploring Cape Town, experiencing safari adventures in Kruger National Park, visiting the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls in both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and making a stop in Johannesburg along the way.

Throughout the trip, Debra was able to tour hotels, experience local culture, and gain valuable insight into the kinds of itineraries and experiences that today’s travelers are seeking. Opportunities like these allow our team to better support advisors and clients with real destination knowledge, trusted recommendations, and firsthand perspective.

“One of the most valuable parts of being a travel advisor is being able to personally experience the destinations you recommend,” Debra shared. “It gives you a level of confidence and understanding that simply can’t be replicated.”

Beyond the destination education, the trip also highlighted another meaningful part of the travel industry — connection. Traveling alongside other advisors from around the world created space for shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and lasting friendships.

Somewhere between the early mornings, unforgettable excursions, endless laughter, and moments of reflection, this FAM trip became much more than a professional experience — it became a collection of memories that will last a lifetime.

Experiences like these are a reminder of why travel matters, and why we are so passionate about helping advisors create unforgettable journeys for their own clients.

Until the next adventure.

Jus Adventures Manager Debra Interviews Dome Travels in South Africa

Tue, 05 May 2026 20:17:22 GMT

While touring South Africa, our host agency manager, Debra, recently interviewed one of our valued travel partners, Dome Travels.

Our Manager, Debra, is currently experiencing the beauty, culture, and luxury of South Africa firsthand—exploring this incredible destination alongside the expert team at Dome Travels. Known for crafting remarkable, tailor-made travel experiences, Dome Travels specializes in both business and leisure travel throughout South Africa and beyond.

What sets them apart is their commitment to collaboration. Working closely with travel advisors and agents, they help bring customized itineraries to life—connecting travelers with exceptional destinations, seamless planning, and world-class service across Africa.

From curated excursions to elevated hospitality, every detail is thoughtfully designed to create journeys that are not only seamless, but truly unforgettable.

We’re proud to partner with a team that empowers our hosted agents with the tools, expertise, and support they need to better serve their clients and create truly exceptional travel experiences.

Additional footage provided by Dome Travels

Jus Adventures Founder Samantha Hammond Attends Exclusive Italy Travel Industry Aperitivo in New York

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:04:22 GMT

Last Monday, Samantha Hammond, founder of Jus Adventures, joined travel industry leaders in New York City for an exclusive Aperitivo hosted by Going2Italy in partnership with ITA Airways and Italo at Serafina Madison 38th in Midtown Manhattan.

The event brought together travel professionals for an evening centered around the evolving Italian travel experience, offering insights into destination management, air travel, and luxury rail—three key components shaping how travelers experience Italy today.

As a boutique Destination Management Company with offices in both Italy and New York, Going2Italy shared valuable perspectives on curated, immersive travel experiences throughout the country. Samantha also had the opportunity to learn more about ITA Airways’ offerings and how the airline continues to enhance connectivity and comfort for travelers flying to Italy.

The evening also highlighted Italo, Italy’s luxury private high-speed rail service, showcasing how seamless rail connections can elevate multi-city itineraries and offer travelers a more efficient and enriching way to explore the country.

For Samantha, attending events like this is part of Jus Adventures’ ongoing commitment to staying connected to trusted partners, deepening destination knowledge, and uncovering new opportunities that can benefit the travel advisors within the Jus Adventures community and the clients they serve.

“Being in the room with partners and hearing firsthand about what’s evolving in destination travel is invaluable,” said Hammond. “It’s how we continue bringing fresh ideas, stronger relationships, and better travel experiences to our advisors and clients.”

From meaningful conversations with industry partners to discovering new ways to experience Italy, the event reflected the value of collaboration, education, and staying engaged with the people and brands shaping the future of travel.

As Jus Adventures continues to support travel advisors with resources, partnerships, and opportunities for growth, experiences like this help ensure the community stays connected to the destinations, suppliers, and innovations that matter most.

Jus Adventures Takes Paris: Advisors & Friends Experience the City of Light

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:49:42 GMT

There’s something truly special about experiencing Paris with a group—and this week, Jus Adventures is doing just that.

Led by our incredible Host Agency Manager, Debra, we’ve brought together a mix of advisors and friends for an unforgettable journey through the City of Light. This trip is more than just a getaway—it’s a chance to connect, learn, and experience the magic of travel alongside like-minded individuals who share a passion for exploration.

From strolling along the Seine to taking in the beauty of the Eiffel Tower and wandering through charming Parisian streets, we’ve been immersing ourselves in some of the city’s most iconic destinations. Each moment has been a reminder of why Paris continues to capture the hearts of travelers from around the world.

And of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without indulging in the local culture—enjoying incredible French cuisine, sipping plenty of wine at cozy cafés, and savoring every bite and sip along the way. These are the experiences that turn a trip into a lasting memory.

At Jus Adventures, we believe travel isn’t just something you sell—it’s something you live. Opportunities like this allow our advisors to deepen their knowledge, create authentic connections, and truly experience the destinations they recommend to their clients.

Because when you’ve lived it, you can sell it with confidence.

Jus Adventures Founder Samantha Hammond Featured as Co-Host on the Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15 Podcast

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:47:50 GMT

Founder Samantha Hammond of Jus Adventures was recently featured on the Host Agency Reviews Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15 Podcast, a weekly series where pre-submitted questions from travel advisors are answered in real time. Airing every Friday at 12 CT, the podcast delivered quick, practical insights designed to support advisors at every stage of their journey.

Hosted by Shayna Zand, Marketing Director of Host Agency Reviews, this episode featured Samantha tackling a range of timely and relevant topics submitted by agents in the field. From best practices around securely handling client identification, to understanding how DMCs structured quotes (gross vs. net commission), to offering guidance for newer advisors looking to confidently build and market their niche—Samantha provided thoughtful, experience-driven answers that reflected the real challenges advisors face today.

Listen to the full episode below

Jus Adventures Hosts Webinar with Host Agency Reviews on Authentic Marketing for Travel Advisors

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:11:19 GMT

Jus Adventures Hosts Webinar with Host Agency Reviews on Authentic Marketing for Travel Advisors

Host Agency Reviews recently invited the team at Jus Adventures to lead a live workshop titled “Day-in-the-Life Videos: Building Connection Through Authentic Content,” focused on one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) tools in a travel advisor’s marketing toolkit: authentic, day-in-the-life video content.

As a trusted resource that helps travel professionals learn how to start and grow their businesses, Host Agency Reviews continues to provide free, expert-driven guidance to the industry. This session centered on helping advisors build meaningful connections with potential clients—before they ever reach out.

The discussion highlighted how behind-the-scenes content can do more than just fill a social feed. When done right, it builds trust, showcases expertise, and communicates the passion behind crafting unforgettable travel experiences—all without feeling like a sales pitch.

During the workshop, led by Phillip Hammond, Director of Marketing for Jus Adventures, advisors learned how to:

Capture authentic, behind-the-scenes moments from their daily workflow

Create simple, engaging video content that resonates on social media

Elevate their personal brand and increase visibility online

The key takeaway? You don’t need fancy equipment or perfectly polished production. What matters most is consistency, authenticity, and a willingness to share the real work you do.

Whether you’re just starting out or already established, embracing this style of content can help you stand out—and stay top of mind—with the clients you want to attract.

Interested in learning more about Jus Adventures or joining our community of travel advisors?

Get in touch here: https://www.joinjusadventures.com/get-in-touch

Jus Adventures On-Site: Secrets Mírabel Cancun Resort Review

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:58:20 GMT

An inside look at Hyatt’s newest adults-only escape in Cancun through the eyes of a travel advisor

At Jus Adventures, we believe the best way to recommend destinations to our clients is to experience them firsthand. Recently, our Host Agency Manager, Debra, visited Secrets Mírabel Cancun, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located just 20 minutes from Cancun International Airport and part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection.

From the moment she arrived, the resort set the tone for a relaxed luxury experience. Guests are welcomed with refreshing cool towels and a signature drink before entering a stunning lobby filled with comfortable seating areas and quiet nooks—perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or gathering with friends.

The guest rooms are spacious, modern, and designed with calming neutral tones. Many rooms feature large balconies overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, while others face lush tropical greenery—offering a tranquil resort feel that sets Secrets Mírabel apart from many properties in Cancun’s bustling hotel zone.

During her stay, Debra enjoyed several of the resort’s seven restaurants, including the Japanese restaurant, Mediterranean venue, and the steakhouse. Meeting with the resort’s leadership team provided valuable insight into the property’s vision and ongoing enhancements as the resort continues its opening phase.

A highlight of the visit was a full site inspection of the resort. Advisors were able to tour the different room categories, explore all dining venues and bars, and even preview the spa currently under construction. Donning hard hats, the group became one of the first advisor groups to tour the upcoming spa facilities—an exciting sneak peek of what future guests will soon enjoy.

The experience also showcased the resort’s engaging activities, including craft workshops, tequila tastings, and lively social spaces like the Sky Bar. Located on the Preferred Club rooftop, the bar features an infinity pool and breathtaking sunset views—quickly becoming one of Debra’s favorite spots on property.

Throughout the stay, advisors were encouraged to experience the resort like guests, from relaxing by the pools to interacting with staff and fellow travelers. The visit concluded with a dinner and feedback session with the Director of Sales, giving advisors the opportunity to share insights and suggestions to help refine the guest experience.

Beyond the resort itself, the trip also highlighted the value of advisor FAM experiences—bringing together travel professionals from across the U.S. to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and strengthen industry connections.

Overall, Secrets Mírabel impressed with its elevated dining, welcoming atmosphere, and boutique luxury feel. According to Debra, it’s an excellent choice for couples, girls’ getaways, and friends seeking a sophisticated adults-only escape in Cancun.

At Jus Adventures, experiences like this ensure our advisors are equipped with firsthand knowledge to match clients with the perfect destination.

Jus Adventures Attends Globus Family of Brands' Unpacked Event

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:59:23 GMT

Jus Adventures Host Agency Manager Debralee Lebron and hosted advisor Caroline Cullen joined industry partners at GFOB’s Unpacked, hosted by the Globus Family of Brands in Garden City, for an evening of insider insights, product education, and networking.

On February 10th, 2026 the team from Jus Adventures had the pleasure of attending GFOB’s Unpacked, hosted by our valued partners at the Globus Family of Brands in Garden City.

Representing Jus Adventures at the event were Host Agency Manager Debralee Lebron and hosted travel advisor Caroline Cullen, who joined fellow industry professionals for an evening of learning, networking, and behind-the-scenes insights into guided travel.

The event featured presentations from experienced Tour Directors and Cruise Directors who shared insider knowledge, memorable stories from the field, and a closer look at what goes into creating the exceptional travel experiences that Globus Family of Brands is known for. Advisors gained valuable product knowledge about the Globus portfolio while learning what truly sets their tours and cruises apart—from expertly designed itineraries to the personal touches delivered by their on-the-ground directors.

The evening also provided meaningful opportunities to connect with industry partners, including Brian S. Ehlers, Business Development Manager for Globus Family of Brands, and other travel professionals dedicated to helping advisors grow their guided travel business.

Events like GFOB’s Unpacked allow Jus Adventures to stay closely connected with our supplier partners while continuing to bring valuable education and opportunities back to our advisor community. We’re grateful to the Globus Family of Brands team for hosting such an informative evening and look forward to continuing our partnership as we help advisors deliver unforgettable guided travel experiences for their clients.

Jus Adventures Host Agency Fall Open House in New York City

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:26:30 GMT

On Thursday, September 25, Jus Adventures Host Agency hosted its very first open house on the Lower East Side of New York City.

The evening brought together future travel advisors, current agents, and several industry partners—Sandals, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Globus—who sponsored and catered the event.

The open house provided an opportunity for attendees to learn more about Jus Adventures, explore what it takes to launch a travel business, and connect directly with the team and travel partners. Guests also had the chance to network with current advisors and gain valuable insight into building a successful career in the travel industry.

“These types of in-person events are so important to the growth of the company and support our core mission: to empower new and aspiring travel agents with the support, mentorship, training, and tools they need to build successful travel businesses and grow confidently in the industry,” said Phill Hammond, Marketing Director at Jus Adventures.

Looking ahead, Jus Adventures will host its next open house in Miami, Florida in early 2026. “We look forward to continuing to travel across the U.S., meeting with our current agents and connecting with potential new agents who are ready to start their journey in the travel industry,” said Debralee Lebron, Host Agency Director.