Celebrating Innovation & Insight: My WORLD25 Recap and Awards

Rocky Dimico • September 24, 2025

How winning two major awards and sharing travel trends at WORLD25 strengthens my Fantasy Travel vision.

Last week at WORLD25 with WorldVia Travel Network, I had the incredible honor of winning two national awards and contributing to panels that are shaping the future of travel. From innovative sales strategies to insights on cultural immersion and sustainable tourism, here’s my recap of an inspiring week, and what it means for you as a traveler.

Rocky Dimico receiving two awards at WORLD25

I’m thrilled to share that I won two prestigious awards at WORLD25:

  • Sales Innovation Award – recognizing the most innovative sales and marketing strategies, from creative campaigns to building affinity groups and unique travel experiences.
  • Monarch Agency of Excellence Award – honoring agencies that excel in supporting preferred partners, products, and community values within the WorldVia Travel Network.

These awards reinforce my commitment to designing truly unique fantasy travel experiences, whether that’s Lord of the Rings tours in New Zealand or castles in Europe.

Fireside chat on group trips at WORLD25

🔥 Fireside Chat on Group Travel

During WORLD25, I also participated in a fireside chat about group travel, where we explored ways to make group trips more immersive, seamless, and personalized. Group travel continues to grow, especially for multi-generational families, affinity groups, and themed adventures.


 Trend Insight: Couples and groups alike are moving toward deeper, culturally rich experiences, think “behind-the-scenes” access, private guides, and interactive workshops.

Panel discussion on emerging travel trends at WORLD25

🎤 Professional Development Panel: Emerging Travel Trends

On the professional development panel, we covered the biggest travel trends shaping 2025 and beyond:

  • Cultural Immersion – authentic, local experiences over “touristy” ones
  • Sustainable Travel – eco-conscious accommodations, train travel, and community-based tourism
  • New Hotspots – the Baltics, South America, and Northern Africa rising as “next big” destinations


These trends align beautifully with my focus on Fantasy Travel, which is about stepping into worlds rich in story, history, and culture.

Northern Lights over Iceland – example of sustainable fantasy travel

🌍 How This Impacts Your Fantasy Travel Experience

Winning awards and participating in trend-setting panels allows me to bring cutting-edge insights and supplier relationships directly to my clients. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family trip, or a fantasy-themed adventure, you benefit from the partnerships and strategies celebrated at WORLD25.

Traveler exploring hidden Baltic town

🧳 Why It Matters

When you work with a travel advisor who’s recognized for innovation and excellence, you gain access to:

  • Insider knowledge on emerging destinations
  • VIP access to unique experiences and suppliers
  • Creative itineraries blending fantasy, culture, and sustainability

It’s about making sure your trip is not only unforgettable but also future-proofed for where travel is heading.

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