TMR Unplugged: Real Talk…. With ALG Vacations’ Michele
A lot of people enter the travel industry because of the relationships. Many industry lifers are driven by creating meaningful experiences and value the lasting connections travel can bring. That’s why TMR was excited to sit down with ALG Vacation’s Director of Sales Operations, Michele Fisher. A 28-year industry veteran, Michele shares why ALGV is committed to investing in travel advisors, along with the education opportunities and events the team is most excited about. Let’s unplug with Michele.
What was the most memorable event you’ve been a part of, and why?
There have been so many, but one that stands out was our first Ascend Conference in Cancun in 2021. It was one of the earliest events of that scale following the Covid-19 pandemic, and it was emotional to gather together again as an industry. You could feel the energy shift as advisors, suppliers, and ALGV team members entered the venue. We had been through an incredibly challenging time and were coming together to lean on one another for support and to create momentum to carry us forward. Months of planning and a lot of uncertainty turned into genuine connection, learning, and celebration. It was a very personal reunion.
What is your “why” when it comes to your job?
My why has always been about the people. I love to create spaces and experiences where advisors feel seen, valued, and inspired. In my time at ALG Vacations, we have never stopped investing in travel advisors so they can be their best personally and professionally. And I have to give a shout-out to my incredibly talented team – they’re the real ones making the magic happen, and I love working alongside them every day.
What is a destination you’ve been to that you could go back to again and again, and why?
Italy! For the food and wine alone! The culture and history are layered into everyday life, and I can’t wait to go back and build upon my first visit and take in more of that incredibly scenery.
What part of your job makes you smile the most?
When people have an emotional response to making a connection, gaining a new insight, hearing an incredible speaker, impacting a local community, or seeing a pristine landscape for the first time. Travel and relationships are a powerful combination and it’s a gift to see people touched deeply in these moments.
What is your one must-have when traveling?
A solid itinerary is first and foremost, but a pair of great walking shoes are a must, along with a good cross-body bag. And a sweater! Because I’m always cold.
What’s one thing that most travel advisors don’t know about your job?
What looks effortless usually isn’t. There is a whole team of people thinking about how to make your experience the best it can possibly be. We’re thinking ahead, anticipating, and trying to plan for the unexpected. When it feels seamless, that’s the real win.
What’s your dream travel destination, and why?
Africa is at the top of my bucket list, and the opportunity to connect with nature in such a powerful, humbling way.
Have you had any truly “wow” moments when an advisor experienced something for the first time while at an event?
Most of my “wow” moments have been centered around experiences aimed to surprise and delight our attendees – an unexpected giveaway or gift, a meet & greet opportunity with a speaker or celebrity, revealing the surprise entertainment guest has been a favorite band since childhood.
What’s on the horizon for ALG Vacations events this year?
A “voluntourism” fam focused on Jamaica recovery and sharing destination progress
New education designed to future-proof advisors, including how to thoughtfully integrate AI into their business
A groups-focused roadshow across 15 cities, sharing practical tools and strategies to increase group sales and profitability
Continuing our “mega fam” strategy in key destinations like CUN and PUJ, blending learning inside and outside the classroom – now with a new supplier tradeshow component
Our annual Ascend flagship event – we raise the bar for ourselves each year, always looking for ways to improve and increase impact from attendee feedback
This year, we’re launching our full lineup of events and details during our 2026 Travel Advisor Events Launch Party. Advisors should keep an eye on the education calendar or lookout for our email to register to attend (for free)!
If an advisor has never been to an ALGV event, what would be your advice for why they should consider attending in 2026?
You’ll gain education you can immediately apply, build relationships that last beyond the event, and leave feeling connected, confident, and motivated. Attending one of our events is truly an investment in yourself and your business.
