Melbourne-based travel consultant Tash Henningsen has already carved out a reputation as one of the industry’s brightest rising stars. Nominated for Luxury Escapes Rookie of the Year in 2024 and now proudly serving as one of the inaugural Brand USA Ambassadors, Tash brings an infectious passion and creativity to everything she does.
For Tash, the role of Ambassador is not just a title, but a transformative opportunity – it provides a front-row seat to one of the world’s most influential travel markets, delivers invaluable industry connections, and offers a chance to build authentic expertise that will shape her career for years to come.
Recently returned from her debut visit to the USA, we caught up with Tash to hear all about her adventure, what she learned and how the ambassador program influenced her experience.
What motivated you to apply to be a Brand USA Ambassador?
“I chose to apply for the Ambassador role because of the passion I have for expanding my expertise and connections in the travel space.
When discussing the role with Lexie, there were so many opportunities to meet other agents, suppliers and build those relationships and my knowledge.
I also have a love of social media and creating fun content, so that side of the role really spoke to me as well.
My Bachelor’s Degree in Musical Theatre means I love all things performance based or with a little creative flair, and as many of my ambassador friends have learned, I love a good social media op!”
What surprised you most about the USA?
“The people are profoundly welcoming and kind. Every single person we encountered on our trip was incredibly personable and eager to share their city with us.
Every person who gave us their time, helped us learn and even the strangers on the street offering directions have been delightful.”
What has been your favourite eat in the USA?
“This trip was overflowing with delicious culinary offerings so picking one favourite is almost impossible. Despite the incredible range of eats we experienced throughout New York, Massachusetts and California, I would have to say that the melt-in-your-mouth steak in Boston and the nostalgic, buttery, golden goodness of Disneyland Resort’s popcorn are my top contenders.”
What was your itinerary highlight from the ambassador famil?
“In Salem, Massachusetts, we were lucky enough to go to a studio called ‘Witch Pix’. They offer a witch-themed dress up and photoshoot experience. The studio owner, Hope, and her team took the time to get to know each participant and dress them according to their preferences and interests. Everyone is then posed in front of spooky sets and provided props to create the most wonderful and magical witchy photos.
I had the best time sharing this experience with my fellow ambassadors and am looking forward to suggesting ‘Witch Pix’ to my clients.”
What is a top tip for a new visitor to the USA from your experience?
“Don’t only opt to visit the big cities! I previously believed that NYC, Vegas and LA were my must-see cities, and while I am eager to return to NYC and explore Vegas and LA, I now have an immense appreciation for small town America.
I suggest new visitors throw in a train journey or road trip to off-the-beaten-path cities, even if it’s just for a day. By visiting lesser-known cities, you allow yourself way more opportunity to delve into the history, people, food and overall nature of the U.S. region you’re exploring.
So, my advice would be to venture out and see it all!”
Now that you have been, where in the USA is next on your list?
“I would opt for a cowgirl-core experience. Whether it be travelling through Nashville and Memphis in Tennessee, or perhaps a full Texas immersion through Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin and Houston.
I would particularly love to see the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders live and experience line dancing at a bar in the USA (a hobby I have recently taken up in Australia and love!).
A group tour or road trip would be amazing.
My fellow ambassadors have inspired me by speaking so highly of their recent exploration across Texas while sharing all their incredible experiences, so I simply cannot wait to go!”
Prior to attending the ambassador famil, you were the only ambassador yet to travel to the USA. Brand USA were honoured and excited to introduce you to the USA, what elements of U.S. culture were you most looking forward to experiencing?
“There was a great mix that I had been hoping to see. The USA I only knew from books, TV shows, news and our screens seemed like it would be otherworldly to experience firsthand. In the best way possible, it was in fact otherworldly.
The bright lights of Times Square and excitement of watching Chicago on Broadway delivered all the movie magic I had dreamed of!
I was also very interested to see how daily life looked there – things like public transport, media and everyday human interactions as well as experiencing all the wonderful, fun and unique things the USA has to offer that keeps travellers U.S.-obsessed.
The famil exceeded all my expectations. I had the best time ever and am so keen to go back!”
What’s one surprising thing about the USA that you wish more people knew about?
“The U.S. theme parks are unmatched compared to the ones I have been to in Australia and other parts of the world. There are so many Disneylands and Universals to explore as well as Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags, even their smallest park is bigger than ours.
For families and adults who are big kids at heart, it is beyond worth the travel to visit a U.S. theme park which offer such fun and grand memorable experiences.
Another thing is skiing in Vail! I recently learnt that it is possible to have an incredible ski trip at the iconic Vail ski resort in the heart of Colorado all year round.”
What U.S. travel style or experience are you most excited to recommend to your clients in 2026?
“I love the growing road tripping trend the more I learn about it! I was first properly introduced to the concept at this year’s “The Great USA Road Trip – Australia” event that I attended in Queensland and have been sharing my knowledge with clients ever since.
Flying from state to state can sometimes be the most effective way to travel, but you see so much more from the ground and have little stops you would never have otherwise.
I often suggest to clients to take a car and drive from LA to Vegas instead of fly but, in 2026 will focus on the Route 66 for its centennial.
The highways in America are so expansive and beautiful, it is best to take on the open road to enrich your travel experience rather than sitting at check in of an airport.”
Find out more
To deepen your knowledge of the USA and access a range of tools and resources, register for the USA Discovery Program – Brand USA’s official training platform for travel agents. Plan your next adventure on AmericaTheBeautiful.com.
Continue reading about other Brand USA Ambassadors including:
- James Rakus, Flight Centre (NSW) here
- Eloise Manto, Flight Centre (SA) here
- Tracey Flower, MTA (QLD) here
- Siobhan Smith, Helloworld (TAS) here
- Lauren Zanesco, itravel (NSW) here
- Jessica O’Grady, Geelong (VIC) here
This article is brought to you by Brand USA:
