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Insider Travel Report assists travel advisors by discussing the changing travel landscape with a line-up of special guests VIP guests, the movers and shakers...
Episodes
18 hours ago
18 hours ago
Mateu Hernández, CEO of Barcelona Tourism, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his city is once again see a surge in tourism from the U.S., which remains a key market. Hernández, who spoke with us just before the Virtuoso Symposium on Crystal Serenity, describes Barcelona’s unique attractions and luxury hotels. He also says concerns about overtourism, and the resulting protests were a bit overblown. Barcelona remains a welcoming city for Americans. For more information, visit www.barcelonaturisme.com/wv3/en/.
18 hours ago
18 hours ago
Alberto Selas, general manager of Nobu Hotel Barcelona, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about how his hotel combines personalized luxury with sustainable practices, including local sourcing and wellness programs. He also shares updates on Nobu’s global growth and how its restaurant roots continue to guide the brand’s hospitality. For more information, visit www.nobuhotels.com/barcelona.
2 days ago
2 days ago
Jason Holland, founder of Travel Simplicity and a charter member of Serandipians by Traveller Made, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about why he chose this global, supplier-funded luxury network, which is free to qualified advisors. Holland explains how the collaborative community of boutique travel designers, curated suppliers and global training resources supportx his growth and branding as a luxury “travel butler.” For more information, visit www.travellermade.com.
2 days ago
2 days ago
Angie Pineda, sales and marketing manager for Hotel Casa San Agustín and Hotel Casa Pestagua, talks with Michela Guzy of Insider Travel Report about Cartagena’s UNESCO-protected old town and the unique appeal of these sister properties just blocks apart. San Agustín is the only Leading Hotels of the World member in Colombia, while Pestagua is part of Relais & Châteaux. Both offer full-service restaurants, pools and spa access, along with a shared private beach escape 45 minutes away. For more information, visit www.hotelcasasanagustin.com and www.hotelcasapestagua.com.
3 days ago
3 days ago
Natalie Galvis, assistant director of sales for Four Seasons, talks with Michaela Guzy of Insider Travel Report about the brand’s two boutique properties in Bogotá. She explains how Casa Medina offers a historic retreat in the financial district, while Four Seasons Bogotá is set in the city’s lively shopping and nightlife zone. Galvis also shares highlights in dining, spa, and cultural experiences. For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com.
3 days ago
3 days ago
Justin Heckman, National Director of Sales Strategy at Club Med, joins James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report to discuss Club Med’s rich history and its 75th anniversary celebration this year. Their conversation highlights the brand’s distinctive resort portfolio, extensive range of activities, dedicated travel advisor programs, and major brand-wide developments — including renovations at Club Med Punta Cana and Club Med Cancun, as well as the launch of new resorts. Founded in 1950 by Gérard Blitz, Club Med pioneered the all-inclusive vacation concept and now operates nearly 70 premium, family-friendly resorts in breathtaking destinations across the Americas, Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Mediterranean. Club Med also supports travel advisors with a variety of resources to help promote and sell its resorts worldwide. For more information, visit Club Med’s dedicated travel advisor portal at https://cmta.pro.clubmed/.
3 days ago
3 days ago
Dana White, founder of Lead Explorers, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how joining Traveller Made in 2018 transformed her business by connecting her with a global network of vetted DMCs, hoteliers and fellow travel designers. She explains how the supplier-funded, no-cost luxury network supports creativity, collaboration and international reach for boutique creators of travel. Based in New York, Lead Explorers specializes in highly customized, experience-driven itineraries for sophisticated travelers. For more information, visit www.travellermade.com.
4 days ago
4 days ago
Zach Rabinor, founder and CEO of Journey Mexico, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how Traveller Made—a supplier-funded luxury travel network that is free to qualified travel advisors—helped his business grow into a leading DMC. A charter member since 2013, Rabinor explains how the Traveller Made network’s artisan focus and selective membership make it a top source of high-end clients and an ideal match for his custom travel offerings in Mexico, Colombia and Costa Rica. For more information, visit www.travellermade.com or www.journeymexico.com.
7 days ago
7 days ago
Pascal Visintainer, global chief sales officer for Accor Luxury and Lifestyle, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Accor’s long-term strategy, focusing on partnerships with top travel advisor networks like Traveller Made. He shares how Accor is growing its luxury and lifestyle division, with more than 100 new properties in development and continued investment in iconic brands and experiences. For more information, visit hera.accor.com.
7 days ago
7 days ago
Pascal Visintainer, global chief sales officer for Accor Luxury and Lifestyle, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Accor’s long-term strategy, focusing on partnerships with top travel advisor networks like Traveller Made. He shares how Accor is growing its luxury and lifestyle division, with more than 100 new properties in development and continued investment in iconic brands and experiences. For more information, visit hera.accor.com.
7 days ago
7 days ago
Quentin Desurmont, founder and president of Traveller Made, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how the luxury network supports elite travel designers at no cost to them since Traveller Made is entirely supplier funded. He explains how the network emphasizes branding, creativity and personalization over sales volume, and discusses its growing embrace of artificial intelligence as a tool to enhance bespoke service. For more information, visit www.travellermade.com.
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
David Herrera, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line, speaks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the evolution of the Prima-class experience with Norwegian Aqua, from its expanded spaces and innovative Glow Court to the Aqua Slidecoaster replacing the Prima Speedway racetrack. Herrera also shares upcoming enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, the brand’s resilience amid global uncertainty, and why the Prince-themed “Revolution” show is his entertainment favorite. For more information, visit www.ncl.com.
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Garret Corcoran, general manager of the Abbey Inn & Spa, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his property, located in a historic convent overlooking the Hudson River in Peekskill, N.Y. With renovated accommodations, a great restaurant and bar, and a fabulous spa, this is truly a five-star retreat just an hour from Manhattan. For more information, visit www.theabbeyinn.com.
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Henley Vazquez, co-founder of New York-based Fora Travel, talks with Amy Tate of Insider Travel about her innovative host agency, which this month opened s pop-up store at 433 West Broadway in New York to get more people interested in buying and selling travel. Vazquez tells us how her Virtuoso-affiliated agency has grown dramatically in sales and number of advisors, even as it introduces new programs and technologies for its members. For more information, visit www.foratravel.com.
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Tuesday May 20, 2025
David Kolner, executive vice president of luxury travel network Virtuoso, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last week’s Virtuoso Symposium onboard Crystal Serenity about what the numbers say about luxury travel today. Kolner reveals Virtuoso sales numbers this year and into next year, what’s selling well, and how Virtuoso’s agencies are dealing with chaotic times. He also details what destinations and product categories are proving to resilient and what travelers are most concerned about. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.
Saturday May 17, 2025
Saturday May 17, 2025
James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report talks with Nik Patel, co-founder of 42 Hotel, and Chef Eric LeVine of the Blackbird Gastro Pub and brand-new Evolution restaurant about their hideaway in Williamsburg, N.Y. With a luxury boutique hotel and two dining outlets this just might be Brooklyn's best best-kept secret—for now. Chef Levigne has created a Brooklyn-themed tasting menu that is both innovative and fun. And Patel has developed a hotel whose name pays homage to his roots in India. For more information, visit https://42hotel.com.
Saturday May 17, 2025
Saturday May 17, 2025
Top destinations around the world can help you plan and execute the perfect destination wedding or honeymoon experience for your clients. Discover the resources these destinations can provide to help you create the ultimate destination wedding or honeymoon. James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report moderates a panel including Shana Whyte, senior sales manager for the U.S. Virgin Islands; Nathalie Pinthiere-Brooks, niche markets officer for St. Martin Tourism and Robyn Basso, CTC, senior director, travel industry partnerships for Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau.
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
John Dennis, vice president of sales for Viva Cruises in the U.S., Canada and South America, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the brand’s growing U.S. presence and evolving product line. He details how Viva’s all-inclusive model delivers strong value with excursions, gratuities, minibar, wine pairings and multiple dining venues included. Dennis also introduces Viva Boutique, a new luxury concept debuting in 2026 on the Seine with more suites, themed itineraries and an elevated onboard experience. For more information, visit www.viva-cruises.com.
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
When you think of destination weddings and honeymoons, the first thing that might not come to mind is how a tour operator or destination management company can help you plan the perfect experience. These two top companies can help you and your clients create the top romantic experiences in the destinations they service. James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report moderates a panel that includes Kiran Nambiar, senior vice president-sales for Anzcro and Mina Agnos, president of Travelive.
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Andrea Kruse, CEO of Viva Cruises, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the all-inclusive upscale brand’s growth to eight ships since 2018. Kruse outlines updates in design, sustainability, and wellness across the fleet and introduces Viva Boutique, a new luxury concept launching in France with larger suites, regional cuisine, and themed itineraries. For more information, visit www.viva-cruises.com.
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
You may consider yourself to be an expert in planning honeymoons and destination weddings, but there are always professional resources you can turn to when you need help. This panel features two companies that can inspire, create and develop your destination wedding or honeymoon plan for your clients. James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report moderates a panel that includes Jodi Lubin, director of strategic sales for ID Travel Group and Shri Lildharrie, owner of LOVU.
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Carlos Antunes, director for the Americas for TAP Air Portugal, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about TAP’s new routes, including one from LAX opening this week, and other U.S. gateways. He also showcases TAP’s modern aircraft and Lisbon hub as a way to get to the rest of Europe and Africa. Plus TAP has regular sales that offer some of the best fares in the market. For more information, visit www.flytap.com.
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
For a destination wedding or honeymoon, the right choice for your clients often is an all-inclusive resort. In this panel, we feature representatives of two all-inclusive properties who give you the lowdown on why their resort is the perfect place to book based on location, facilities and programs. Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report moderates this panel that includes Loreto Lazo, director of romance for Iberostar Hotels & Resorts and Griselda Garcia, sales manager for Almare Luxury All-Inclusive Resort.
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
For a destination wedding or honeymoon, the right choice for your clients often is an all-inclusive resort. In this panel, we feature representatives of several all-inclusive properties who give you the lowdown on why their resort is the perfect place to book based on its location, facilities and programs. Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report moderates this panel that includes Yanique Thomas, weddings manager, Princess Hotels & Resorts Jamaica; Ruben Velazquez Robles, business development manager, Ocean by H10 Hotels; Gina Johnson, senior manager-destination weddings, Hilton All-Inclusive and Marina Cabrera, product and operation coordinator Caribbean for Bahia Principe Resorts.
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
Maria Elena Malpezzi-Price, co-owner of ExperiencePlus! Bike Tours, talks with James Shillinglaw about her bike touring company, which offers cycling adventures throughout Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. Maria Elena also details how her bike tours are orchestrated, including where guests stay, where they eat, what they see, and what kind of bikes they ride. For more information, visit www.experienceplus.com.
Sunday May 11, 2025
Sunday May 11, 2025
Courtnie Nichols, CEO & founder of TravelBash, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how she got into the travel business, grew her group destination weddings niche (Travel Bash), formed a travel club for her best clients (Trvlb), and now is set to offer a new conference on luxury travel (The Biz Huddle) to help her fellow advisors, which will make its debut in July in Austin, Texas. For more information, on Nichols’ businesses, visit www.travelbash.com or www.trvlb.com. For more information on The Biz Huddle or to apply to attend, visit www.thebizhuddle.com.
Friday May 09, 2025
Friday May 09, 2025
Frédéric de Marcy Chelin, general manager at Shangri-La Le Touessrok, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his famed destination resort on Mauritius. It might seem a long way to go, but for your clients visiting Dubai or South Africa, it’s just a quick flight away to find great beaches, pools, fine dining and sumptuous accommodations at this destination resort. Mauritus native Chelin tells you all about it. For more information, visit www.shangri-la.com.
Friday May 09, 2025
Friday May 09, 2025
Mark Suter, general manager of the Mandarin Oriental, Munich, speaks with Michaela Guzy of Insider Travel Report about the hotel’s 25th anniversary, new residential expansion, and upcoming pedestrian-friendly enhancements in its central location. Suter highlights the property’s boutique scale with just 73 rooms, its celebrated Matsuhisa restaurant and rooftop bar, and its blend of Bavarian culture and Asian service. He also discusses Munich's walkable attractions, spa offerings, and top local experiences, including Oktoberfest, beer gardens, and the English Garden. For more information, visit www.mandarinoriental.com/munich.
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Dan Hansen, head of Americas development and global head of Hyatt Studios, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the growing new Hyatt Studio brand and what it offers guests. Hyatt Studios is part of Hyatt Essentials Collection, which includes Caption by Hyatt, Hyatt Place and Hyatt House. Hansen explains the differences between those brands as well as where Hyatt is expanding in other areas. For more information, visit www.hyatt.com.
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Will Cairns, founder of Active England Tours, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what his company offers and why increasingly Wales is emerging as a top destination in the U.K. From national parks to castles and other historic attractions, from great accommodations to inventive cuisine, Wales hits all the hot spots—and Active England has the programs to meet the demand. For more information, visit www.activeenglandtours.com.
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Portia Hart, owner and manager of Blue Apple Beach, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her unique sustainable resort located on an island just minutes by boat from Cartagena, Colombia. Hart tells us how she founded the property and why it’s been recognized by readers of Conde Nast Travel and why she herself has been called a pioneer shaping the future of travel. For more information, visit www.blueapplebeach.com.
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Simon Chapman, complex general manager of The Benjamin Royal Sonesta, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about his historic and recently renovated hotel located in midtown New York on Lexington Avenue. With large, refurbished rooms and a brand-new spa, The Benjamin offers a luxurious experience for guests. And soon, it will get a new restaurant and bar. For more information, visit www.thebenjamin.com.
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
John Chernesky, senior vice president of North America sales for Norwegian Cruise Line, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Norwegian Aqua, the newest ship in the Prima Plus class. He explains how the design builds on previous ships with expanded public spaces, new dining concepts like Sukhothai and the Indulge Food Hall, and standout attractions including the Aqua Slidecoaster. Chernesky also details luxury upgrades to The Haven, highlights entertainment options including a Prince tribute concert, and outlines current and upcoming itineraries. For more information, visit www.ncl.com.
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Shelly Hartfield, vice president of destinations for Victory Cruise Lines, speaks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the brand’s curated shore excursions across the Great Lakes and how her team was able to quickly create new experiences during a recent repositioning cruise. She discusses immersive tours that go beyond the top 10 attractions, and shares how Victory’s itineraries cater to American travelers seeking European-style exploration closer to home. For more information, visit www.victorycruiselines.com.
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Stephanie Mirando, senior vice president of global marketing at Collette, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the modern traveler and how Collette's product is evolving to meet their needs. She also details the tools and support the company has to help travel advisors to sell confidently, as well as what's on tap for Collette's Travel Advisor Appreciation Month. For more information visit www.gocollette.com.
Sunday May 04, 2025
Sunday May 04, 2025
Kari Koskela, general manager of Shangri-La Toronto, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his luxurious designer hotel in the heart of the city. It comes complete with an Italian and Asia restaurant, a buzzing central hotel lobby and a spacious spa. It’s the perfect place to stay when visiting trendy Toronto. For more information, visit www.shangri-la.com/toronto.
Sunday May 04, 2025
Sunday May 04, 2025
Patrick Miller, president of Rio Las Vegas, takes James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on a tour of this famed casino resort, which now features renovated rooms, new dining options, new lounges, new shows and a surprising villa complex. At the same time Rio Las Vegas has kept its famed Voodoo Lounge and its signature entertainment. For more information, visit www.riolasvegas.com.
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
Kelly Messina, senior director of leisure sales for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the very first Spotlight Nevada, a new trade event designed to promote resorts and attractions in Las Vegas and the rest of Nevada. On April 13-15, nearly 80 travel advisors gathered with roughly 100 suppliers to meet and experience all the state has to offer. And Spotlight Nevada will return next year. For more information, visit www.spotlightnevada.com or www.visitlasvegas.com.
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
Guillermo Ortega, general manager of Hotel Continental, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his newly refurbished art deco boutique property on the famed Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. With fully refurbished rooms, a classic pool area and innovative artwork, this hotel, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, is a great option for your clients. Plus, Ortega will be opening a new speakeasy bar and rooftop bar later this year to make the Miami experience more complete. For more information, visit www.hilton.com/en/hotels/miaupup-hotel-continental-miami-beach.
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Craig Richison, area director of sales for Hersha Hospitality Management, which manages the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club in Miami Beach, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about this classic art-deco property, great for singles, couples and families. With a large pool area, pool bar and restaurant, a more formal Italian grill and direct access to the beach, the Cadillac, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, ticks all the boxes for a great stay in Miami. For more information, visit www.cadillachotelmiamibeach.com.
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Chef Luigi Iannuario, executive chef at Donna Mare Italian Chophouse talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his brand-new restaurant, which features all the Italian classics and much more. Located in the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, this restaurant is one of those great finds that may soon become wildly popular—so book your clients now. For more information, visit www.donnamare.com or www.cadillachotelmiamibeach.com.
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Matteo Mancini, senior manager of kids and family entertainment for MSC Cruises, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report aboard the brand-new MSC World America to showcase the ship’s groundbreaking family programming. Mancini discusses the Family Aventura district, the Lego partnership, Guinness World Records events, and innovative attractions like the Cliffhanger swing and sky rail. He also highlights MSC’s popular youth soap opera “Cabin 12006” where the kids get to be the star. For more information, visit www.msccruises.com and www.youtube.com/user/MSCCruisesOfficial.
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
John Waggoner, CEO of Victory Cruise Line, speaks to Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the rechristened Victory I, which made its return to Great Lakes cruising on April 27. The ship, which will be joined by Victory II next month, will sail on Great Lakes cruises between Chicago and Toronto (and the reverse), stopping at Niagara Falls, Cleveland, Detroit, Sault St. Marie, Mackinac Island, Escanaba (Mich.). For more information, visit www.victorycruiselines.com.
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador for AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the AmaMagdalena, the first river ship to cruise in Colombia. The ship made its debut earlier this month sailing seven-night cruises on a culturally rich and scenic itinerary from Cartagena to Barranquilla (and the reverse). For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Seatrade Global in Miami, about her island’s growing cruise business. Franklin attended Seatrade to convince more cruise lines to choose Barbados as a great port of call. For more information, visit www.visitbarbados.org.
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Melnecia Marshall, deputy chief executive officer for the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami about how her island nation works to attract more cruise business. With the ability to take multiple ships of almost any size, great attractions, spectacular beaches and a long history, St. Kitts just might be one of the perfect port of calls in the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.visitstkitts.com.
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Gerry Larsson-Fedde, chief operating officer of Hurtigruten, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami about his cruise line’s plan to get to Net-Zero (non-carbon-emitting) cruising as early as 2030. With new ships and new technologies, the Norwegian coastal cruise company is betting it can lead the way to the next generation of cruising. For more information, visit www.hurtigruten.com.
Friday Apr 25, 2025
Friday Apr 25, 2025
Latia Duncombe, director general of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Seatrade Global in Miami about why the Bahamas has focused so heavily on the cruise market, developing Nassau as the top port in the region and developing many private islands for specific cruise lines. She also details a new program to get cruisers and other travelers to experience the Bahamas like a local. For more information, visit www.bahamas.com.
Friday Apr 25, 2025
Friday Apr 25, 2025
David Tanguay, global head of sales for Aurora Expeditions, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Seatrade Global in Miami about his luxury expedition cruise line, which offers sailings to Antarctica, the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Oceania & Asia and Europe. With a crew of explorers and scientists, Aurora offers guests a unique perspective on expedition cruising with some unusual itineraries that can’t be duplicated. For more information, visit www.aurora-expeditions.com.
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his river cruise line is dedicated to group travel, catering to corporate groups, family groups, weddings and full ship charters. Transcend also will feature a new fleet of specially designed river ships that are some of the most innovative in the market. If you’re a group travel specialist, this is exactly the kind of product you need. For more information, visit www.transcendcruises.com.