California, the land of endless possibilities, welcomes the next wave of industry leaders to the 2025 California Agent Advisory Council! This exciting initiative, created by Visit California in partnership with United Airlines and Infinity Holidays, brings together a dynamic team of travel professionals dedicated to shaping the future of Californian tourism.
The California Agent Advisory Council is more than just a famil – it’s a movement.
A collaboration between Visit California and industry powerhouses, the council’s mission is simple yet powerful: to elevate California’s tourism message and inspire more travellers to experience the magic of the Golden State.
Each year, a select group of dedicated travel professionals is chosen to join the council, offering them the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the California travel market while strengthening their own industry relationships.
These advisors are the bridge between California and travel-hungry Aussies and Kiwis, ensuring the Golden State remains top-of-mind for travellers eager to experience The Ultimate Playground.
Who’s on the 2025 California Agent Advisory Council?
After an overwhelming response from travel agents across Australia and New Zealand, eight outstanding professionals have been selected for this exclusive opportunity:
- Nicola (Cola) Maurirere – iTravel
- Rose Febo – TravelManagers Australia
- Hayley McGrath – Stage and Screen Travel Services
- Melanie Evans – Travel Associates
- Vanessa Tokatly – SmartFlyer
- Bianca Douglas Watt – Flight Centre
- Hayley Lyson – italk Travel
- Holly Summer – Envoyage NZ
Each of these industry leaders brings unparalleled expertise, passion, and enthusiasm for California, ensuring that travellers receive the best recommendations and insights when planning their dream Golden State adventure.
Find out more about the 2025 California Agent Advisory Council members here.
Where will the Council travel in 2025?
To truly understand California’s magic, you have to experience it firsthand!
The 2025 California Agent Advisory Council will embark on an exclusive road trip adventure to discover what’s new and exciting in the state.
This year, the council is splitting into two groups before uniting for an unforgettable finale:
Northern California Experience:
San Francisco
A city like no other, San Francisco is a place where creativity, diversity, and innovation collide.
With its picturesque bay, rolling fog, and rich history, the city exudes a character that is both sophisticated and effortlessly cool.
The energy here is palpable; artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers all find inspiration in its streets, making it a hub of possibility and reinvention.
Sonoma County
Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, Sonoma County is where nature, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the land come together.
Sonoma’s slower pace allows travellers to fully immerse themselves in sipping world-class wines, savouring farm-fresh cuisine, and meeting vibrant artisan and maker communities.
It’s a place rich in heritage, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability.
Southern California Experience:
Santa Monica
The epitome of coastal cool, Santa Monica embodies the carefree spirit of California.
With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, this beachside city is effortlessly stylish and refreshingly laid-back.
Santa Monica is a place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the ocean air, and embrace the golden glow of California living.
Newport Beach
A jewel of the Orange County coast, Newport Beach is where elegance meets the endless horizon.
Whether it’s the sound of gentle waves lapping against the shore, the scent of salt air mingling with fresh seafood, or the feeling of utter relaxation as the day drifts into twilight, Newport Beach is a haven of beauty and refinement.
The Grand Finale in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County)
After exploring Northern and Southern California, both groups will unite in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) for two unforgettable nights.
SLO CAL is where California’s soul shines brightest; a place where rugged coastlines meet rolling vineyards, and laid-back charm blends seamlessly with adventure.
This region is all about connection, whether it’s with nature, with local artisans, or with the simple joys of life. The pace is slower, the smiles are wider, and the sense of belonging is immediate.
California: The Ultimate Playground
From its sun-kissed beaches to its snow-capped peaks, California is a land of diversity, adventure, and endless possibilities. It’s a place where dreams take flight, cultures intertwine, and every traveller finds their perfect escape.
As the 2025 CAAC embarks on this journey, they will experience firsthand why California remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Join us in celebrating this year’s California Agent Advisory Council and stay tuned as they uncover the Golden State’s best-kept secrets!
Stay tuned for all the fam coverage on Karryon!
The California Agent Advisory Council is led by: Eva Huezo
This initiative is led by Eva Huezo, Visit California’s Tourism Development Manager for Australia & New Zealand.
A passionate advocate for the Golden State, Eva is dedicated to equipping travel agents with the insights, tools, and confidence to sell California like never before.
For the ANZ travel trade, Eva is your go-to contact for all things related to California tourism.
Need destination updates, marketing support, or sales tools? She’s here to help bring the magic of California to your clients.
Contact Eva here.
This article is brought to you by Visit California
