Every year, our team is on the move … producing events, meeting with Travel Advisors and Suppliers in-event, and making sure every detail is in place for our partners. It’s busy, exciting, and sometimes a little non-stop. That’s why taking time to connect outside of the event hustle is so important to us.

This year, we traded meeting rooms for mountain peaks and headed to Anchorage and Talkeetna, Alaska for our team retreat.  Our history with Alaska is strong and after working with Travel Alaska and Visit Anchorage for the 2023 Travel Agency Owners Forum, we knew we had to go back!

 From the moment we arrived at the Talkeetna Denali View Lodge & Cabins, we knew this was going to be something special. The views of Denali were breathtaking, and the cozy lodge gave us the perfect space to slow down, share ideas, and plan for an even bigger and better 2026.

Soaring Over Glaciers

One of the biggest highlights? Our K2 Aviation flightseeing tour that took us over snow-capped peaks, weaving between rugged ridgelines before touching down on a glacier. Standing there, surrounded by endless ice and towering mountains, was the kind of moment that puts everything into perspective.

Taking Adventure to New Heights

We couldn’t resist another aerial adventure, this time by helicopter with Alaska Helicopter Tours in Palmer. Lifting off and skimming over the Alaskan wilderness reminded us just how big, wild, and awe-inspiring this state really is.  And saying we stepped foot on 2 glaciers during our retreat?  Pretty epic. 

Speed, Rapids, and Pure Fun

Back on the water, we joined Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures for their Devil’s Canyon Adventure. The speed, the spray, and the jaw-dropping scenery made it an unforgettable ride. Pictures do not do these rapids justice.  And the stories from our Captain really gave us a new perspective for the beauty of the area. And yes, we all got a little competitive trying to spot wildlife along the way.

A Step Back in Time

When weather called for a change of plans on our first day, we explored Independence Mine State Historical Park and took in the views from Hatcher Pass. Even with a touch of fog, the scenery was spectacular, proof that in Alaska, you don’t need perfect weather to have a perfect day.  And to be honest, the fog made for a really neat perspective as we took in the sights of an old abandoned mining town.

Why Retreats Matter

Sure, we packed in the adventures, but the real purpose of this trip was to connect. Without the constant buzz of event days, we had time to brainstorm, reflect on our wins, and map out exciting plans for the future. These moments of connection - whether around a firepit or standing on a glacier - are what fuel our creativity and keep our team inspired.

Now, as we look toward 2026, we’re heading back to our events with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a reminder that sometimes, the best planning happens far from a desk.