The Insider Travel Report Podcast

Matthew Upchurch, chairman and CEO of Virtuoso, gives James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report an update on his luxury travel network, why Virtuoso selected Dubai to host its Symposium, and the state of the luxury travel today. At a conference where the host hotels included such icons as the Burj El Arab and the brand new Atlantis-The Royal, Virtuoso members were able to experience the state of the art in luxury accommodations. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Bar'el Wachtel, co-founder of Cloud 9, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about his floating entertainment platform on the Malilla Barrier Reef in Fiji. It features various water activities and a full bar and a specialized food menu including wood-fired pizzas. This commissionable vacation add-on can be reached by boats from surrounding island resorts or by a large ferry operated by Cloud9 from the Port of Denarau. For more information, email book@cloud9.com.fj or visit www.cloud9.com.fj.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Lucas Johansson, general manager of D’Angleterre Copenhagen, the first five-star hotel in the city dating from 1755. Johansson details the history of the property,  the sumptuous and recently renovated accommodations, fine dining options and much more. For your clients, this is the place to stay in Denmark’s capital. For more information, visit www.dangleterre.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Simon Douglas Houison Craufurd, laird and owner of Craufurdland Castle in Scotland, gives James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report a tour of his family owned castle, which has been passed down through generations. The castle, dating from the 16 century, was even bequeathed to his ancestors by Scottish royalty. And yes, you can stay on the castle grounds to get a true experience of what it’s like to own a castle.  It’s all part of a Visit Scotland fam trip for tour operators and one journalist in April. For information, visit www.visitscotland or https://craufurdland.co.uk.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Allison Hayworth, executive chair of Captain Cook Cruises in Fiji, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the history and recent transformation of Captain Cook Cruises, highlighting the introduction of luxury expedition cruising with a new ship, Caledonian Sky. Originally founded by her parents, Hayworth's company offers various itineraries, including visits to remote villages and unique experiences in Fiji, Tonga and Samoa. For more information, email fiji@captaincookcruisesfiji.com or visit www.CaptainCookCruisesFiji.com. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Ben Johnson, area director of sales and marketing for Outrigger Fuji Beach Resort and Castaway Island, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the history and features of his resorts, emphasizing their continuous reinvention, multi-generational appeal and luxury services. Johnson highlights ways to reach the island, room types, dining options, bars, spa facilities, kids club and activities, including the newly created Outrigger Adventure Park. For more information, email Ben.Johnson@Outrigger.com.au or visit www.Outrigger.com. 

 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Derrick Mallon, owner of Mharsanta in Glasgow, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his restaurant and bar featuring local fare sourced from local farms around the city. If you’re looking to dine like a local and enjoy some great Scottish specialties, Mharsanta (which means merchant in Gaelic) is the place to book. For more information, visit www.mharsanta.co.uk.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Jennifer Williamson, deputy general manager of AC Hotel Glasgow, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her brand new 245-room hotel in the heart of the city. The property features a new wing and restored building that formerly served the Parish Halls during the Victoria era. The hotel, which offers a casual restaurant and an already popular bar, was the first stop on a five-day fam trip of Scotland hosted by VisitScotland. For more information, click on AC Hotel Glasgow.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Grant Seylhouwer, director of sales and marketing for the Royal Davui, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about his boutique luxury property in Fiji with just 16 villas, each with their own plunge pool. A tranquil, adults-only experience with a strong emphasis on privacy and personalized service, culinary experiences and a full-day spa, the Royal Davui caters to honeymooners and high-net-worth individuals seeking a low-key, romantic getaway. For more information, visit www.RoyalDavuiFiji.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Lindsay Hamilton, owner and head tour guide of Glasgow Football Tour, talks with James Shillinglaw after taking him on a tour of the origins of football in Scotland—and Hamilton asserts that football was actually invented in the country. She takes us on a walking tour of the three Hampdens, showcasing the most important and historic football fields of Glasgow, culminating in a tour of the Scottish Football Museum. Hamilton shows why she knows football as well as anyone in Scotland. For more information, visit www.glasgowfootballtour.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Neeraj Chadha, multi-property vice president Pacific Islands Marriott International, and Javed Shameem, market director of sales and distribution, Fiji and Samoa, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about all the Marriott hotels in Fiji, especially the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort, it history, facilities, and recent renovations, and emphasis on multi-generational travelers, business meetings, and events. Detailed are the resort's golf course, a farm-to-table initiative, diverse dining options, and strong ties with Fiji Airways. For more information, visit www.Marriott.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Jamie Paiko, vice president of sales-North America for Cunard, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about Cunard as the staple of luxury travel, new roundtrip ports from Seattle and Miami and the celebration of the line’s newest ship, Queen Anne. For more information, visit www.onesourcecruises.com/onesource/ext-pages/nam/cunard-partnership.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Patrick Katzenburg, the new general manager for The Londoner, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his big “boutique” hotel in the heart of London, which we first visited when it first opened back in September 2021. Katzenberg describes the accommodations, the restaurants and bars, and the large spa located several levels below street. Most important he talks about the benefits of being one of the most centrally located properties in the city. For more information, visit www.thelondoner.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Lauren Mossop, the director of sales and marketing for Waya Island Resort, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about her adults-only boutique resort in Fiji with only 17 rooms and a capacity of 34 guests. The resort features cultural experiences, with a strong focus on sustainability and community engagement, training and employing the local islanders. In development for 16 years, its New Zealand philanthropist-owner did not allow it to produce revenue until all the ivy had grown into place. For more information, email Sales@WayaIsland.com or visit www.WayaIslandResort.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Rhona Young, our guide at The Clydeside Distillery, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about this very first distillery experience  in Glasgow. While there are plenty of distilleries around Scotland, this is one your clients can tour in the city itelf. Young details the history of the distillery, the origins of whiskey, and the process of making Scotland’s finest. It’s the very first day of our VisitScotland fam trip Enchanting Scotland. For more information, visit www.theclydeside.com or www.visitscotland.com

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

William Drabble, executive chef at Althoff St. James Hotel & Club, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his new restaurant, Francatelli’s, with cuisine inspired by Charles Elme Francatelli, the chef at the St. James Hotel in the 1840s, who ended up becoming Queen Victoria’s head chef. Francatelli also wrote “The Modern Cook,” an essential cookbook of English cuisine, which Drabble uses as a base for his modernized reinterpretations of London food in the 19th century. For more information, visit www.stjameshotelandclub.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Samantha Muspratt, director of sales and marketing for Ahura Resorts, and Bradley Calder, general manager of Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the adults-only Likuliku Lagoon Resort, featuring overwater bungalows and traditional Fijian decor, as well as the neighboring family-friendly property, Malolo Island Resort. Muspratt and Calder emphasize how Fijan family ownership influences the authentic experiences and warm atmosphere that infuses service, culinary offerings, spa and cultural activities at both resorts. For more information, visit www.LikulikuLagoon.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Akuila Batiweti, chief marketing and sales officer for Fiji Airways, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the airline’s award-winning premium lounge with an exclusive Chef's Table dining experience, the fully lie-flat seats and exceptional service in business class on A350s, and a program offering travel advisors discounts and familiarization options to better sell the luxury product. For more information, visit the dedicated Fiji Airways portal on the Insider Travel Report site at www.insidertravelreport.com/fijiairways.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Akuila Batiweti, chief marketing and sales officer for Fiji Airways, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the airline's major role in supporting Fiji's tourism, how the airline integrates cultural experiences into its flights, and how it has increased its connectivity through its membership in the oneworld alliance. Fiji Airways also offers travel advisor programs to encourage selling Fiji as a destination. For more information, visit the dedicated Fiji Airways portal on the Insider Travel Report site at www.insidertravelreport.com/fijiairways.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Stefano Squecco, the new general manager of the Althoff St. James Hotel & Club, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his classic English hotel in the posh Mayfair district of London. Squecco showcases his 60 rooms, including a wonderful Terrace Suite, as well as the hotel’s brand new Francatelli restaurant with cuisine echoing what was served to Queen Victoria. For more information, visit www.stjameshotelandclub.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report at the Fiji Tourism Exchange about the growth in tourism for Fiji, highlighting record numbers in 2023 and continued growth in 2024. He attributes tht growth due to the increasing number of American travelers arriving from direct flights from major U.S. cities. He also discusses the rise in solo and female travelers, the growing cruise sector, North America marketing efforts and new hotel development. For more information, visit www.Fiji.com.fj.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Dondra Ritzenthaler, new CEO of Azamara Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on just her second day on the job at the premium cruise line. Ritzenthaler talks about her first experiences with Azamara back when it was a sister to her former company Celebrity Cruises, why she feels there is a tremendous opportunity for the brand, and her plans for the future of Azamara. For more information, visit www.azamara.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Andrea Grisdale, founder and CEO of IC Bellagio, the high-end Italy specialist, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about why she’s partnering with the World Travel & Tourism Council on a new consumer campaign promoting the benefits of sustainable tourism. Grisdale, who has played an active role in WTTC in recent years, wants travelers to truly understand the benefits that travel and tourism brings to communities around the world. For more information, visit www.wttc.com or www.icbellagio.com. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Eva Mount, general manager of The BoTree, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her brand new luxury hotel located just a block off Oxford Street in London. The newbuild property features a variety of modern accommodations, a classic bar and a new Lavo Italian restaurant. It’s the perfect property to book for those clients interested in high-end shopping and classic London sightseeing. For more information, visit www.thebotree.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Jamie Paiko, vice president-sales, North America for Cunard, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the fourth Queen in the fleet, which offers a mix of classic Cunard luxury with a modern twist. With sumptuous suites, dining in the classic grills and specialty restaurants, West End theatrical shows and nightly entertainment, Queen  Anne offers a Cunard experience for a new age. For more information, visit www.cunard.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Tristan Armstrong, newly named CEO of Rocky Mountaineer, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about his famed luxury rail company offering rail tours in Canada and the U.S. Armstrong isn’t new to the brand: He’s the son of Rocky Mountaineer founder Peter Armstrong and grew up living and breathing his family’s trains—the ultimate model railroad. For more information, visit www.rockymountaineer.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Matt Gleaves, vice president-commercial for Cunard, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his luxury cruise line’s new Queen Anne, the fourth Queen in Cunard’s fleet. Gleaves talks with Shillinglaw a day after both disembarked on a one-night preview in Southampton of the ship, which marries Cunard tradition with a thoroughly modern style and includes brand new dining venues, West End and Broadway caliber entertainment, magnificent suites and much more. For more information, visit www.cunard.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Renata Bacal, entertainment and engagement manager on Star Pride, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about all the performances, games, speakers, parties and other attractions offered on her Windstar Cruises ship, which can carry up 312 guests. Bacal details all the things guests can do onboard this small ship, in this case as it cruises the Canary Islands and Madeira. For more information, visit www.windstarcruises.com. 

No time to watch this video? Listen to the audio podcast with the same title, available on Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean, iHeartRadio, Google,Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox.  

Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about why she named the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners in Australia as godparents of Seabourn Pursuit, the line’s newest purpose-built expedition ship, which has been sailing since late last year. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s June 22-July 2, 2024 voyage in the Kimberley region of Australia. The Wunambal Gaambera people are the Traditional Owners of a region in the Kimberley. Leahy also talks about how her twin luxury expedition ships—Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit have been received by the market. For more information, visit www.seabourn.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Andreas Pitsch, veteran hotel general manager on Star Pride, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what guests experience onboard the Windstar Cruises ship, which was stretched to two years ago accommodate more passengers, a bigger spa, revamped suites and two new restaurants. Pitsch details the accommodations, the dining and the service onboard. For more information, visit www.windstarcruises.com. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Belinda Hindmarsh, deputy CEO-global business for Ponant, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what’s to come for her French-owned luxury expedition cruise line. Hindmarsh describes Ponant’s growing fleet of sustainable ships, including the flagship Le Commandant Charcot, as well as plans for the “greenest” cruise ship ever, set to debut as early 2030. She also details some of the most innovative itineraries to off-the-beaten-path destinations in the cruise business. For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Adolfo Perez, senior vice president of global sales and trade marketing, talks with Lark Gould of Insider Travel Report about Carnival Cruise Line's latest ship, Carnival Firenze, as it sets off on its inaugural voyage through the Mexican Riviera from Long Beach, Ca.  Perez discusses what separates Firenze's "Fun, Italian Style" from sister ships and what's new for the popular cruise brand. For more information, visit www.goccl.com or www.carnival.com. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

 

Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report talks with tourists, shopkeepers, new citizens, hotel managers, students and the manager of Tel Aviv's LGBTQ Center to find out what they think about the prospects for the return of tourism. From Tel Aviv to Haifa to Jerusalem, Lutz discusses safety during the war, diversity throughout the country, and how Israel is moving forward. Highlights include how different cultures and religions live side by side, Israel's gay community and hospitality in times of struggle. For more information on Israel tourism, visit www.israel.travel.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Janet Bava, chief commercial officer for Windstar Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on the President’s Cruise on Star Pride about what the future holds for the small ship cruise line. Bava highlights the Windstar’s growth plans, with two new small ships joining the fleet in 2025 and 2026, as well as how the line has completely renovated its existing fleet of sailing and motorized yachts. She also details how Windstar is offering new itineraries, with two ships now sailing in Tahiti, a new Canary Islands cruise, and much more. For more information, visit www.windstarcruises.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Bennet Caplan, owner of Thinkers Distillery in Jerusalem, speaks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about gin, vodka, cocktails and how better chemistry makes better drinks. Caplan discusses the various tours and tastings offered at Thinkers Distillery, including what visitors can expect to learn, drink and eat (with a longer tour). HE also shares how Thinkers supplied energy snacks to Israeli troops and worked as a community to support other Israelis during the war. Originally from New York, Caplan is a rabbi with various secondary degrees who loves to share knowledge and stories over the best drink you'll ever have. For more information, visit https://thinkersdistillery.com/en/ or www.israel.travel. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Wolfgang Gartner, head of international marketing for Saxony Tourism in Germany, talks with Olivia Liveng of Insider Travel Report about Saxony's tourism sector, highlighting its cultural richness, compact geography and unique attractions like Dresden and Görlitz. Gartner reviews recent initiatives, the integration of history into tourism, as well as Saxony's diverse landscapes, culinary offerings and future sustainability trends. For more information, visit www.visitsaxony.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Chris Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on board his President’s Cruise on Star Pride about Windstar’s new Canary Islands itinerary, two ships deployed in Tahiti, the line’s acquisition of two new vessels and much more. For more information, visit www.windstarcruises.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Andrea Pier, commercial director of Chemnitz, talks with Olivia Liveng of Insider Travel Report about the German city's cultural initiatives and attractions, including museums, nature activities, and its strategic location near major cities like Berlin and Dresden. With Chemnitz designated as the European Capital of Culture for 2025, Pier emphasizes the community's strength and ongoing projects for future tourism. For more information, visit www.chemnitz.travel.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Ellen Shapiro, director of public relations for North America for the Israel Ministry of Tourism, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about visiting Israel today and in the future. Shapiro discusses the people and groups coming to Israel now, and how the travel industry has survived during the war, including its role in housing evacuees after Oct. 7. She also talks about the near-term future of tourism in Israel, the ongoing interest in Israel as a destination, and the support and dedication people are showing for the country and its tourism industry, as well as what's most special about Israel for her. For more information, visit www.israel.travel.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Kathy Mehring and Heather Hendrix, regional sales directors at ALG Vacations®, talk with David Cogswell of Insider Travel Report about how ALGV is celebrating Travel Advisor Appreciation Month. Showing its gratitude towards advisors, ALG Vacations is celebrating ALGVPros with vacation giveaways, promotions, incentives, surprises and much more all month long! For more information, visit www.algvacations.com/TAAM.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Alessandro Cabella, managing director of Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the reopening of La Pergola, its three Michelin star restaurant, and renovations to the hotel as well.  Cabella discusses the restaurant's history, changes in decor, demographic shifts, amenities like an extensive wine and water collections. For more information, email Allesandro.Cabella@WaldorfAstoria.com or visit www.RomeCavalieri.com.

 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Michal Shiloah Galnoor, managing director at Western Galilee Now, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about off-the-beaten-path tourism in Israel, working with small businesses and promoting sustainable tourism. Galnoor details how you can travel around Israel safely now and work with Western Galilee to plan trips that focus on traditional family shops, artistic studios and culinary experiences. She also highlights the diversity of Israel and the many different cultural groups in the country. Finally, Galnoor discusses how the many different cultural and religious groups continue living together peacefully and what this taught her about her country. For more information, visit www.westgalil.org.il/en or www.israel.travel.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

 

Laura McCorry, head of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the historic significance of her castle and its role in pivotal events, such as the Good Friday Agreement, a landmark peace accord ending the decades-long conflict known as "The Troubles," which had plagued Northern Ireland since the late 1960s. McCorry highlights the launch of a new U.S. shared history tour, inviting visitors to experience the castle's political and cultural heritage, along with other attractions in Northern Ireland. For more information, visit www.Ireland.com  and www.hrp.org.uk/hillsborough-castle. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Elad Rapoport, general manager of the Herbert Samuel Milos Dead Sea Hotel, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about his property in Israel's Dead Sea region. Rapoport describes the private pools in many of the rooms, the stunning lobby, and how guests can choose to stay at the hotel or come for a day to use facilities and float in the Dead Sea. He also talks about what hospitality means to him and how hosting evacuees from Oct. 7 attacks deepened his understanding of how to welcome people in all moments of their lives. For more information, visit https://herbertsamuel.com/en/milos-dead-sea-hotel or www.israel.travel. 

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Guy Young, chief engagement officer for TTC Tour Brands, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about tour trends in the market, new tools and programs for travel advisors, sustainable touring, and how TTC Tour Brands offers a tour product for every client since it encompasses Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Contiki, Costsaver, Luxury Gold and more. For more information, visit https://agents.ttc.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of HX, the expedition cruise product from Hurtigruten, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about ESG  (environmental, social and governance) ratings as a way to quantify HX's long-standing commitment to sustainability. This includes use of shore power, community support and onboard scientific research, all while achieving upscale experiential luxury. Skjeldam also encourages travel advisors to promote expedition cruising through HX's training programs. For more information, visit www.TravelHX.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Jason Gardener, incoming tourism manager of Isrotel Hotel Group, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about the culture and values that define his hotels located throughout Israel. Speaking in one of Isrotel’s Design properties, the Alberto Hotel in Tel Aviv, Gardener discusses the hospitality that defines both his company and the Israeli people. He highlights ihow Isrotel properties hosted evacuees after Oct. 7 attack, describes different hotel categories and shares a few of his favorite Isrotel properties. For more information, visit www.Isrotel.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Shaun Benesch, chief financial officer of the Flockhill Lodge in New Zealand, talks with Lark Gould of Insider Travel Report about the history and transformation of a former sheep station into a luxury lodge accessible by car, train or helicopter. Venishek discusses how the lodge caters to high-end guests, offering a range of wilderness and wellness activities on a vast property, with new villas coming in December. For more information, visit www.flockhillnz.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Mika Rabinovich, a certified Israeli tourism guide, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about the key places visited during a week of traveling around Israel on a trip sponsored by Israel Ministry of Tourism. Highlights include where to go during this critical time in Israel and how to experience lesser-known areas of the country. Speaking at the Alberto Hotel in Tel Aviv, Rabinovich highlights the major attractions, such as the Old City in Jerusalem and the Dead Sea region, and talks with Lutz about how it feels traveling around Israel during the war. For more information, contact Mika Rabinovich directly at 011-972 54-541-1434 or visit www.israel.travel.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

Andrea Franklin, CEO of Barbados Tourism & Marketing, Inc., and Ian Gooding-Edghill, minister of tourism and international transport for Barbados, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report at Seatrade Global in Miami about the growth of the island's cruise industry, highlighting increased passenger numbers and calls, and plans to become a southern Caribbean hub. They also discuss efforts to boost airlift from the U.S. and U.K., new hotels and attractions, and programs like Elite Travel Training and fam trips to support travel advisors. A travel advisor portal will be available soon. For more information, visit www.visitbarbados.org.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.