Top 15 Tourism Industry Keynote Topics for 2025 and 2026

Tourism leaders are searching for keynote speakers who can deliver fresh, impactful insights to inspire teams, destinations, associations, and communities. From sustainability to AI, from workforce challenges to storytelling, these are the top 15 keynote topics that will dominate tourism conferences in 2025 and 2026.

1. Sustainable Tourism for All

How destinations, operators, and communities can balance growth with environmental responsibility while creating shared value.

2. AI in Tourism: Friend or Foe?

Practical applications of artificial intelligence in tourism marketing, visitor services, and operational efficiency.

3. Tourism for Well-Being

Exploring the connection between tourism, community health, and traveler well-being.

4. The Future of Tourism Ambassadors and Champions

Why empowering residents, front-line workers, and advocates builds stronger, more resilient visitor economies.

5. Storytelling That Sells

Turning local culture, heritage, and personal narratives into unforgettable visitor experiences.

6. The Inclusive Destination

Practical strategies for accessibility, DEI, and creating welcoming spaces for every traveler.

7. Data-Driven Tourism: Turning Insights Into Action

Harnessing tourism intelligence to make smarter decisions that drive long-term value.

8. Tourism Leadership in the 21st Century

What it takes to lead teams through disruption, innovation, and rapid change.

9. Building Resilient Destinations

Preparing for climate shifts, workforce shortages, and economic disruptions with sustainable strategies.

10. The Rise of DIY Tourism Marketing

How small businesses and local providers can reach global markets on lean budgets.

11. Pathways to Tourism Careers

Equipping the next generation of tourism professionals through mentorship, training, and certification programs.

12. The Science of Visitor Behavior

Applying neuroscience, behavioral economics, and psychology to design better experiences and increase spending.

13. Collaboration as a Competitive Advantage

How public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders can work together for sustainable growth.

14. Tourism as a Tool for National and Local Development

Real-world lessons on how tourism strengthens economies, communities, and cultural pride.

15. From Research to Practice

Turning academic and scientific studies into actionable strategies for tourism stakeholders.

What Makes a Great Tourism Keynote Speaker

Choosing the right keynote speaker for your tourism event can mean the difference between a forgettable session and a transformative experience. The best tourism keynote speakers bring a blend of expertise, energy, and empathy to the stage. Here’s what sets them apart:

• Real-World Experience: They’ve walked the walk—whether leading destinations, building tourism businesses, or advising international organizations.

• Storytelling Ability: Great speakers make complex topics relatable with stories that connect emotionally and inspire action.

• Research-Backed Insights: They integrate data, science, and proven strategies to give audiences practical takeaways they can use immediately.

• Audience Engagement: Through humor, interaction, or thought-provoking questions, they keep the audience energized and involved.

• Visionary Thinking: Instead of rehashing yesterday’s ideas, they challenge audiences to imagine the future of tourism and prepare for it.

• Adaptability: They tailor their message to resonate with diverse audiences, from front-line staff to policymakers.

When you combine these qualities with the trending topics above, you get keynote presentations that don’t just inform — they transform.

About Learn Tourism the nonprofit academy...
Learn Tourism is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the tourism industry through innovative educational practices and professional development initiatives. Our mission is to harness the power of science, business psychology, and adult education to build sustainable economies and enrich the tourism landscape.

About the Author and Tourism Keynote Speaker: 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 co-founder of Learn Tourism - the nonprofit academy. 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 for knowledge have led him to be 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, and Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School.