03/19/2026
Students from the BYU–Hawaii Hospitality & Tourism Management program traveled to Phoenix, Arizona, on February 14 – 15, 2026 to attend the Travel & Adventure Show, one of the nation’s largest travel expos, transforming a weekend trip into a living classroom of cultures, creativity, and connection. ✈️🌍
Surrounded by global tourism boards, travel brands, and industry professionals, students gained firsthand insights into what drives the world of travel: authentic storytelling, emotional connection, and cultural pride.
“AI can provide information and itineraries, but it cannot replicate passion, cultural pride, and real human storytelling,” shared Sebastian Delemose, a student from India.
For Jadd Pacia from the Philippines, the show offered a new perspective on travel marketing. “Our industry thrives on personal touch and the ability to inspire others, something technology can support but never truly replace,” he reflected.
Mia Ebert from the United States described the experience as “incredible from the moment we left BYUH,” adding, “The most impactful tourism marketing is emotional and cultural. People are not simply buying trips; they’re seeking memorable experiences.”
This immersive trip reminded students that beyond destinations and digital tools, hospitality and tourism remain centered on people, their stories, their emotions, and the connections that bring the world closer together. 🌏💫