San Diego, November 23, 2025
The Phocuswright Conference in San Diego brought together industry leaders to discuss the future of travel technology from November 18 to 20. With the theme ‘Game On,’ the event emphasized innovation and strategy in response to rapid technological changes and changing consumer expectations. The venue, the Manchester Grand Hyatt, hosted notable speakers and exhibitors, highlighting the significant role of partnerships and individual initiatives in shaping the travel industry’s future.
San Diego’s Phocuswright Conference 2025 Sparks Travel Innovations
A key industry event shapes the future of travel technology
San Diego, California – The Phocuswright Conference 2025 unfolded from November 18 to 20 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, attracting leaders from across the global travel technology sector. The gathering served as a platform for exploring pressing challenges and opportunities in an evolving industry landscape. With the event themed “Game On,” participants were encouraged to innovate and take strategic action against the backdrop of rapid technological advancement and shifting consumer expectations.
As our community continues to grow, it’s imperative to recognize the resilience demonstrated by local organizers in bringing together such a dynamic event. Events like the Phocuswright Conference highlight the potential of private partnerships and the importance of reduced bureaucratic barriers to enhance civic engagement and showcase San Diego as a hub for innovation. This underscores the powerful role that individual initiative plays in fostering collaboration and growth within our local economy.
Event Highlights
- Venue and Attendance: The Manchester Grand Hyatt provided an expansive 100,000 square feet of dedicated event space, with organizers projecting a 15% increase in attendance compared to the previous year, signifying growing interest in travel technology discussions.
- Keynote Speakers: The event featured notable figures including Geoff Freeman, President & CEO of the U.S. Travel Association; Omri Morgenshtern, CEO of Agoda; and Fred Lalonde, CEO & Co-Founder of Hopper, who shared valuable insights into the travel industry’s transformation.
- Focus Areas: Conference discussions centered around pressing themes such as the impact of generative AI, autonomous agents, and digital identity, exploring how these technologies reshape operations, distribution, and customer engagement within the travel sector.
- Networking Opportunities: Attendees benefited from structured meetings, interest-based lounges, and roundtable discussions, enabling fruitful connections among startups, investors, and corporate leaders.
Industry Participation
- Exhibitors: Major players including Booking.com, Snowflake, and Kayak showcased their latest innovations, reinforcing the conference’s role as a premier platform for industry leaders to unveil groundbreaking products and services.
- Debate Session: The Travel Technology Association led its third annual Soapbox Industry Debate, deliberating on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s development of the National Travel and Tourism Strategy and the digital challenges facing the travel and tourism sector.
Looking Ahead
The Phocuswright Conference 2025 aptly demonstrated the travel industry’s commitment to embracing innovation and change. As the sector continues to respond to technological disruptions and evolving consumer behaviors, platforms like this play a pivotal role in guiding the future trajectory of travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When and where was The Phocuswright Conference 2025 held?
The Phocuswright Conference 2025 took place from November 18 to 20 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California.
What was the theme of The Phocuswright Conference 2025?
The theme of The Phocuswright Conference 2025 was “Game On,” emphasizing the need for innovation and strategic action in response to rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer expectations.
Who were some of the keynote speakers at The Phocuswright Conference 2025?
Keynote speakers included Geoff Freeman, President & CEO of the U.S. Travel Association; Omri Morgenshtern, CEO of Agoda; and Fred Lalonde, CEO & Co-Founder of Hopper.
What were the main focus areas of The Phocuswright Conference 2025?
The conference focused on the impact of generative AI, autonomous agents, and digital identity on the travel industry, exploring how these technologies are reshaping operations, distribution, and customer engagement.
Which companies exhibited at The Phocuswright Conference 2025?
Exhibitors included companies like Booking.com, Snowflake, and Kayak, showcasing their latest innovations.
Key Features of The Phocuswright Conference 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Venue | Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego, California |
| Dates | November 18–20, 2025 |
| Theme | “Game On” |
| Keynote Speakers | Geoff Freeman, Omri Morgenshtern, Fred Lalonde |
| Focus Areas | Generative AI, Autonomous Agents, Digital Identity |
| Exhibitors | Booking.com, Snowflake, Kayak |
| Networking Opportunities | Structured meetings, interest-based lounges, roundtable discussions |
| Debate Session | Moderated by the Travel Technology Association on digital challenges in the travel industry |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
