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.
How destinations, operators, and communities can balance growth with environmental responsibility while creating shared value.
Practical applications of artificial intelligence in tourism marketing, visitor services, and operational efficiency.
Exploring the connection between tourism, community health, and traveler well-being.
Why empowering residents, front-line workers, and advocates builds stronger, more resilient visitor economies.
Turning local culture, heritage, and personal narratives into unforgettable visitor experiences.
Practical strategies for accessibility, DEI, and creating welcoming spaces for every traveler.
Harnessing tourism intelligence to make smarter decisions that drive long-term value.
What it takes to lead teams through disruption, innovation, and rapid change.
Preparing for climate shifts, workforce shortages, and economic disruptions with sustainable strategies.
How small businesses and local providers can reach global markets on lean budgets.
Equipping the next generation of tourism professionals through mentorship, training, and certification programs.
Applying neuroscience, behavioral economics, and psychology to design better experiences and increase spending.
How public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders can work together for sustainable growth.
Real-world lessons on how tourism strengthens economies, communities, and cultural pride.
Turning academic and scientific studies into actionable strategies for tourism stakeholders.
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.
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.