Stephen Ekstrom

Stephen Ekstrom is the embodiment of a passionate lifelong learner and a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, serving as the CEO and founder of Learn Tourism | learntourism.org. With over 25 years of experience, he has cultivated a deep understanding of tourism development and education, driven by his commitment to advancing the industry and fostering sustainable economies. Stephen's insatiable curiosity and love of knowledge have made him a proud nerd, constantly seeking to expand his expertise and share his insights with others. Alongside his faithful furry companions, Rudy and Marjorie, he embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, traversing the globe and immersing himself in diverse cultures. A dedicated advocate for continuous improvement, Stephen is a professional member of the Association for Talent Development and a member of Skal International. Stephen holds prestigious certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from USF, AI Governance and Ethics from Brown University, Sustainable Business Strategy and Transforming Customer Experiences from Harvard Business School, and Sustainable Tourism Destination Management from Cornell.

Education that Takes you places

3 minute read
AI On Our Side: Tourism Training Efficiency
For tourism professionals and educators, staying ahead of trends and maintaining high-quality...
3 minute read
Increase Participation and Community Engagement in Online Training Programs for Destination Ambassadors and Travel Professionals
Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) play a crucial role in promoting and enhancing the...
2 minute read
10 Benefits of Partnering with Learn Tourism for Your LMS Needs
10 Benefits of Partnering with Learn Tourism - a nonprofit academy - for Your LMS Needs When it...
2 minute read
Hand Sanitizer and High-Flying Strategies: Cambria Jones on Navigating Careers and Destinations with Searchwide Global
Hand Sanitizer and High-Flying Strategies: Cambria Jones on Navigating Careers and Destinations...
1 minute read
Crafting Effective Training for Tourism Ambassadors: Integrating Online Courses with In-Person Engagement
Training tourism ambassadors shapes how destinations are experienced, perceived, and promoted....
10 minute read
Meet the Finalists: Excellence In Education Award
Celebrating Excellence in Education: Patricia Puentes and "Let's Meet by Meetings®Panama" We are...
2 minute read
Utilizing Research to Empower Destination Marketing Organizations and Tourism Ambassadors
Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) play a crucial role in promoting tourism and enhancing...
2 minute read
9 Questions You Should Be Asking When Considering Your Tourism Training Program Partner
Choosing the right partner to develop your tourism advocate or ambassador training programs is...

Where Will Knowledge Take You?

Curiosity and a passion for lifelong learning fuel both the traveler and those who make experiences worth having. Join us.