If you're a travel advisor or supplier looking to grow your luxury clientele, the right networking group can be the difference between a full calendar and a quiet one. Here are five circles that deliver real connections, from local meetups to global summits.
The Luxury Travel Networking Landscape
The luxury travel industry thrives on relationships—between advisors, suppliers, and the discerning clients they serve. In recent years, networking has evolved from simple trade shows to curated, experience-driven gatherings that prioritize quality over quantity. Whether you're seeking local camaraderie or international prestige, these groups offer distinct paths to build your brand and your contact list. The key is finding the right fit for your business goals and your preferred style of interaction.
How We Evaluated These Networking Circles
We looked at each group's service scope—from local meetups to global conferences—and how clearly they communicate their value. Pricing transparency mattered, as did the level of local fit for a St. Louis-based professional. We also considered the depth of networking opportunities, the quality of events, and the overall reputation within the luxury travel community. Each group brings something unique, and our evaluation highlights what stood out for each.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five networking circles, with the featured local group at #2.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Forbes Travel Guide Summit | Global luxury brand positioning |
| PROST St. Louis | Local luxury travel networking |
| Connections Luxury | International luxury travel connections |
| Travel Leaders Network Events & Education | Professional development and training |
| Travel Agent Forum | High-volume trade show networking |
The Deep Dive: Your Networking Options
#1 Forbes Travel Guide Summit
A screenshot of the Forbes Travel Guide Summit website.
The Forbes Travel Guide Summit is the premier by-invitation-only conference that gathers the top minds in luxury travel and hospitality. It's a three-day immersive event held in stunning destinations like Monaco, where you'll rub shoulders with decision-makers from the world's best brands. If you're looking to position yourself at the pinnacle of the industry, this is where you need to be. The summit offers sponsorship, exhibitor, and speaking opportunities, making it a versatile platform for brand elevation. It's a significant investment, but the potential returns in prestige and connections are unmatched. For those ready to play on the global stage, this is the gold standard.
#2 PROST St. Louis
A screenshot of the PROST St. Louis website.
PROST St. Louis is your local gateway to the luxury travel networking scene, offering monthly social events that blend business with pleasure. As the newest chapter of the PROST Network, it's designed to foster genuine friendships and business opportunities among travel executives in the St. Louis area. You'll mix and mingle with local travel advisors and preferred suppliers in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Membership is exclusive, but guests can attend when accompanied by a member host, making it easy to test the waters. It's the perfect way to build a strong local network without the travel costs of national conferences. If you're based in St. Louis, this is your home base for industry connections.
#3 Connections Luxury
A screenshot of the Connections Luxury website.
Connections Luxury offers a global calendar of curated events where luxury travel brands meet leading travel designers through one-to-one meetings and experiences. Their events span the UK, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and the Americas, giving you access to international markets. The focus is on quality interactions, not just handshakes, with a format that ensures you have meaningful conversations. If you're looking to expand your reach beyond the US, these events are a strategic choice. The 2026 and 2027 schedules are packed with opportunities, from London to Tokyo. It's a premium networking experience for those serious about global growth.
#4 Travel Leaders Network Events & Education
A screenshot of the Travel Leaders Network website.
Travel Leaders Network provides a comprehensive suite of events and educational opportunities designed to elevate your professionalism. From live webinars and on-demand lessons to in-person workshops and an annual international conference, they cover every aspect of business growth. You'll gain insights into programs, products, and preferred suppliers, all tailored to help you improve your agency. The network's focus on training means you're not just networking—you're learning. It's a practical choice for advisors who want to sharpen their skills while building connections. The variety of formats ensures you can fit learning into your busy schedule.
#5 Travel Agent Forum
A screenshot of the Travel Agent Forum website.
Travel Agent Forum is a major trade show that brings together travel agents and suppliers for four days of education, networking, and deal-making. Held at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, it's a high-energy event with a packed schedule of seminars and exhibit hall sessions. You'll have the chance to meet a wide range of suppliers and discover the latest trends in the industry. It's a more traditional trade show experience, but it's effective for making broad connections. If you thrive in a bustling environment, this is your arena. The forum also offers opportunities for suppliers to exhibit and for agents to participate in a SELECT program.
How to Choose Your Networking Circle
Start by defining your goals: are you looking for local referrals, global partnerships, or professional growth? If you're based in St. Louis, PROST St. Louis offers an immediate, low-cost way to build a strong local network. For those with a bigger budget and a desire for international exposure, Forbes Travel Guide Summit or Connections Luxury are worth the investment. Travel Leaders Network is ideal if you want to combine networking with ongoing education. And if you enjoy the energy of large trade shows, Travel Agent Forum delivers volume. Consider your time, budget, and the type of connections you value most.
Streamlining Your Networking Efforts
To make the most of these opportunities, automate the administrative side. Use a CRM to track contacts and follow-ups, and set reminders for event registration deadlines. For local events like PROST St. Louis, you can automate RSVPs and calendar invites. For international conferences, automate travel bookings and expense reports. By automating the logistics, you free up time to focus on building genuine relationships.
Your Next Move in Luxury Travel Networking
The luxury travel industry is built on trust, and these five circles offer different paths to earning it. Whether you start with a local PROST St. Louis event or aim for the global stage, the key is to show up consistently and engage authentically. Choose one that aligns with your current goals, and let the connections you make drive your business forward. The right network can open doors you didn't even know existed.