The Insider Travel Report Podcast

How This Luxury Host Agency Became “Accomplished”

Jason Miller and Andre Sustelo, principals in Accomplished, talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s Virtuoso Travel Week about their host agency’s new name, brand and program for independent contractors. Accomplished is one of the hot new Virtuoso-member host agencies making waves in the market. For more information, visit www.travelaccomplished.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.

How to Get Your Clients to the Las Vegas Grand Prix

Kelly Messina, senior director of leisure sales for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how your clients can still find ticket  and packages for the much-in-demand F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, including what Vegas is doing to host the race. For more information, visit www.lvcca.com or www.visitlasvegas.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.

 

Rediscover the Luxurious Nobu London Portman Square

Sam Jones, director of sales and marketing for Nobu London Portman Square, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s Virtuoso Travel Week about the latest at his luxury hotel (which Insider stayed at last year). Jones details the sleek accommodations, service and amenities—and of course the famed Nobu restaurant. For more information, visit www.nobulondonportmansquare.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.

How a Former TV Weatherman Is Finding Success as a Nexion Travel Advisor

Seth Wayne, owner of Sail with Seth, a Nexion affiliated travel agency, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how he switched careers from being a local TV weatherman and then a Holland America ambassador to become a travel advisor selling cruises. Wayne, a relatively new Nexion advisors, explains how his host agency gave him the tools to succeed and thrive in his new profession. For more information, visit www.sailwithseth.com or www.nexion.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.

Virtual Road Show Panel: How River Cruising Is Evolving to Meet the Needs of a New Generation

James Shillinglaw moderates a panel of experts on how river cruising is expanding its reach to attract new markets, engage a more active customer, develop new destinations, and offer longer cruises. This panel examines the latest new products and services, as well as the newest destinations on the rivers of the world. They also tell you how your clients can visit familiar rivers in a completely new way They detail how you can better sell river cruising to a new generation of customers. Panelists include Alex Pinelo, senior vice president-sales for AmaWaterways; Angela Composto, vice president, marketing for American Queen Voyages; Jennifer Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises; John Dennis, vice president of sales and marketing for Viva Cruises; and Michael DaCosta, general manager-North America for CroisiEurope. For more information, visit www.AmaWaterways.com, www.AQVoyages.com, www.Riverside-Cruises.com, www.Viva-Cruises.com and www.CroisiEurope.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.

NCL’s David Herrera Talks About the Brand New Norwegian Viva

David Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the new Norwegian Viva, the second Prima class ship launched by the cruise line. Herrera talks about what this new ship means to NCL, his team’s strategic vision for the line, the factors contributing to the record sales, the thought behind the renovation of Norwegian Joy and much more. For more information, visit www.NorwegianCentral.com and www.NCL.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.

Discover One of the Most Luxurious Resorts in the Caribbean

Stefano Baratelli, general manager of the Eden Roc Cap Cana, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s Virtuoso Travel Week about his luxury property in the Dominican Republic. Baratelli details the accommodations, Relais &  Chateaux dining and activities available at Eden Roc Cap Cana, as well as what’s new at the resort. For more information, visit www.edenroccapcana.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.

Jackie Friedman on the State of the Nexion Today

Jackie Friedman, president of Nexion Travel Group, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Nexion’s CoNexion conference aboard Celebrity Equinox about how her host agency members are selling, new programs and more. Friedman, who also is chair of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) explains why this just might be the best time to be a travel advisor ever. For more information, visit www.nexion.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.

How the New Norwegian Viva Accommodates Guests

Nelson Martins, general manager of the new Norwegian Viva, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how his new ship caters to guests with a wide range of accommodations and services, including high-end suites and special solo cabins. Martins tells you how to select the right accommodations that work best for your clients. For more information, visit www.ncl.com or www.NorwegianCentral.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.

How the Luxury Resorts Market Has Changed Post-Pandemic

Stephen Arthur, director of leisure sales for Timbers Resorts, talks with James Shillinglaw of insider Travel Report at last month’s Virtuoso Travel Week about his upscale resort collection as well as the trends he’s seeing in the hotel market post-pandemic in rates, hotel policies and guest preferences. For more information on Timbers Resorts, visit www.timbersresorts.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.

Discover One of the Newest Luxury Hotels on Lake Como

Marco Montagnani, general manager of the Grand Hotel Victoria on Lake Como, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month's Virtuoso Travel Week about his luxury property built on the architectural structure of an ancient convent. As one of then ewest five-star hotels in Lake Como, the 81-room Grand Hotel Victoria, which is part of the R Collection, has a unique lakefront location in Menaggio, beautiful gardens and a 12,900-square-foot spa, swimming pool, and breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For more information, visit www.grandhotelvictoria.it  or www.rcollectionhotels.it. 

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.

Insider Video: Find Out What’s to Eat and Drink on the New Norwegian Viva

Wes Cort, vice president of food and beverage operations for Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the wide variety of dining and drinking venues which inventively cut waste to be as sustainable as possible on the Norwegian Viva, and what your clients can expect to experience when they book the ship. For more information, visit www.ncl.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.

Where Growing Tradewind Aviation Is Flying Today in the U.S. and Caribbean

David Zipkin, founder of Tradewind, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s Virtuoso Travel Week about where his growing scheduled and private charter airline is flying today, including service to Nantucket, Newport, Boston, Martha's Vineyard, Stowe, British Virgin Islands, Nevis Anguilla, St. Barths, British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Antigua, St. Thomas, Bahamas, Palm Beach, Orlando, Tampa, Key West, Miami and more. For more information, visit www.flytradewind.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.

Discover the Accommodations and Dining Aboard the New Norwegian Viva

Mark Kansley, senior vice president-hotel operations for Norwegian Cruise Line, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about what your clients will find on the new Norwegian Viva  in rooms and suites, dining, how it differs from Norwegian Prima, and much more. Discover what this brilliant new vessel has to offer. For more information, visit www.ncl.com and www.NorwegianCentral.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.

Discover a Whole New Set of Luxury Kempinski Hotels & Resorts

Amanda Elder, chief marketing officer for Kempinski Hotels & Resorts, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s Virtuoso Travel Week about the newest luxury hotels and resorts in the Kempinski network. Kempinski hotels have always reflected their surroundings, so these new properties are a perfect fit for the destinations in which they are located. For more information, visit www.kempinski.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.

How to Sell the New Norwegian Viva Today

John Chernesky, senior vice president-sales for Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the new Norwegian Viva, the second ship in the Prima Class, and how you should sell all the great new features and experiences onboard to your clients. For more information, visit www.ncl.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.

Why Colombia Has Become to Place Everyone Wants to See

Gilberto Salcedo, vice president of tourism for ProColombia, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at this month’s Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas about the growth of tourism numbers to his country, what travelers should experience in terms of sustainable tourism, how ProColombia is marketing travel and next year’s introduction by AmaWaterways of river cruising on the Magdalena River. For more information, visit https://colombia.travel/en.

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.

How Silversea is Marketing the new Silver Nova

Cinzia Amadeo, senior vice president of global marketing for Silversea, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report aboard the line’s new Silver Nova, a unique new entry into the luxury cruise market. Amadeo details how her company is marketing the new ship and offers suggestions on how you should market it as well. For more information, visit www.silversea.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.

Why Go Experience the Attractions of South Africa Today

Jerry Mpfune, president-North America & Global Creative Leader for South African Tourism South African Tourism, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his country’s many attractions and experiences for travelers. Mpfune details the latest tourism numbers, new airlift to the South Africa, new accommodations and much more. For more information, visit www.southafrica.net.

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.

How the Leader of TTC Tour Brands Sees the Tour Industry Today

Melissa DaSilva, president of TTC Tour Brands, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at this month’s Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas about her company’s many brands—including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Luxury Gold, Brendan Vacations, Contiki and Costsaver. Da Silva details how these brand differ and how they fit together for a complete set of tour experiences that you can sell to your clients. For more information, visit www.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.

How Silversea Developed the Silver Nova Experience

Andrea Tonet, vice president of product strategy for Silversea, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his luxury cruise line conceived and completed the revolutionary Silver Nova. Tonet details how Silversea developed the ship’s design, culinary program, rooms and suites, entertainment and activities. It all adds up to a unique new luxury experience at sea. For more information, visit www.silversea.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.

Insider Video: How You Should Sell the Revolutionary New Silver Nova

Silversea’s Joe Leon, head of sales for the Americas, and Peter Shanks, managing director-U.K., Ireland, Middle East and Africa, talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the key selling points of y previous cruise ship. From the position of the pool and the stack on the top decks to the spacious new interiors, Silver Nova sets out to reinvent the luxury cruise ship. For more information, visit www.silversea.com.

If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider their brand new Silver Nova, which has a unique asymmetrical design unlike anTravel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

How Virtuoso Is Marketing Luxury Travel Today

Helen McCabe-Young, senior vice president of marketing for Virtuoso, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at this month’s Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas about how the luxury travel network is marketing the benefits of both its travel advisor members and preferred partners, using a series of dedicated So Virtuoso videos, a revamped Virtuoso magazine, new digital marketing and much more. 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.

How Silversea’s S.A.L.T. Culinary Program Has Evolved on Silver Nova

Adam Sachs, director of Silversea’s S.A.L.T. (Sea Air Land Taste) program, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how S.A.L.T. now has more space and more resources onboard the new Silver Nova, with venues designed for the program specifically. There’s a dedicated S.A.L.T. kitchen with meals served reflecting the destinations visited by the ship; a S.A.L.T. Bar, with drinks reflecting those destinations; and a S.A.L.T. lab, which offers a cooking school focused on local fare, which doubles as a S.A.L.T. Chef’s Table at night offering an elaborate tasting menu. Plus there are S.A.L.T. excursions to wineries, markets and restaurants at most of the destinations visited by the ship. For more information, visit www.silversea.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.

What the Numbers Say About the Virtuoso Luxury Travel Network

David Kolner, executive vice president of Virtuoso, the luxury travel network for top travel advisors and partners, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about the size of the network, the market for luxury travel, how Virtuoso members are feeling about their business prospects, how Virtuoso advisors and partners are viewed by clients, and Virtuoso benefits that members value you most and more. 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.

How Virtuoso Took the Pulse of Travel Tech at Virtuoso Travel Week

Gilad Berenstein, a member of Virtuoso’s board and TK, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the state of travel technology today, particularly the technology that is beig used and can be applied to the travel trade. Berenstein led a special conference on technology at Virtuoso Travel Week earlier this month were top tech companies served on panels and gave talks about their products, and even technology companies from outside travel participated. From AI to back office systems to itinerary developers and more, it’s once again a whole new world out there. 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.

What’s Behind the Design of Silversea’s Out-of-the-Box New Ship

Roberto Bruzzone, senior vice president of marine operations for Silversea, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about Silver Nova, the luxury cruise line’s revolutionary new, 728-guest vessel. Bruzzone explains why Silver Nova’s unique asymmetrical design provides more space on the top decks and in the interiors. You may be tempted, as we were, to move the ship’s stack and pool to the center, but you soon get used to a whole new boutique hotel form of cruising. For more information, visit www.silversea.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.

How to Sell Plant-Based Travel on AmaWaterways

Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, and Lisa McCarl, owner of Millersville, Md.-based McCarl Travel, an Inteletravel affiliate talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about an upcoming new specialty river cruise focused on plant-based travel. This culinary specialty is a growing trend for many clients who rely on plant-based food for their health. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com or email iisa.mccarl@gmail.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.

Discover Silversea’s the Revolutionary New Silver Nova

Barbara Muckermann, president of Silversea, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report onboard the new Silver Nova, the 728-guest ship that features a unique asymmetrical design. This new design provides more room on the top decks and the interiors of the ship. Muckermann details these innovations for this groundbreaking new vessel. For more information, visit www.silversea.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.

How to Enjoy Your Spa Treatment Onboard the New Explora 1

Yulanda Marais, head of spa and wellness for Explora Journeys, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the wonderful treatments available at Explora 1’s new spa, the facilities available In the spa, and what your clients can expect (and yes, we tested the spa out—amazing). For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.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.

Discover Princess’ New Ships, New Programs and Expanded Destinations

Cal Almaguer, senior vice president of sales and Service for Princess Cruises, talks about his line’s upcoming new ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess; new inclusions for the Princess Plus and Princess Premier programs: the new homeport in  Port Canaveral; Princess Perfect Weddings; and how the line is expanding even more in Alaska and Europe. For more information, visit www.princesscruises.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.

Discover the Suites, Dining and Service on the Brand New Explora 1

Heike Berdos, general manager for Explora I, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her brand new ship, which offers exquisite décor, sumptuous suites and some very fine dining. There is no cruise director or hotel director about, but Berdos fills those roles as part of her role as general manager of a luxury boutique hotel at sea. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.com. 

Matthew Upchurch on Virtuoso Travel Week and the Future of Virtuoso

Matthew Upchurch, chairman and CEO of Virtuoso, sits down with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report to review last week’s Virtuoso Travel Week, the state of the Virtuoso luxury travel network today, how now just might be the best time to be a travel advisor. For more information on Virtuoso, 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.

“That’s Entertainment” Aboard the Brand New Explora I

Drew Gowland, head of entertainment for Explora Journeys, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what guests can see and do onboard the revolutionary new Explora 1. The ship has effectively replaced a theatre with a nightclub and lounge, offering singers, jazz combos, bands, and pianists playing Steinways. In other venues Explora I offers “luminaries” speaking on all kinds of topics related to the places the ship visits. It’s a different kind of entertainment that breaks the mold of more traditional offerings. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.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.

Discover the Experience that the Brand New Explora I Delivers

Jason Gelineau, head of product and guest experience for Explora Journeys, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what your clients can expect from the new luxury Explora I, which just had its first cruise the first week of August. Gelineau explains why Explora Journeys is not selling itself as a cruise, but as a luxury boutique hotel experience at sea, complete with the ultimate in fine dining, super accommodations and unique entertainment, all while visiting wonderful destinations. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.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.

Why Explora I Offers Some of the Best Cuisine at Sea

Franck Garanger, head of culinary for Explora Journeys, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on the new Explora I about the amazing dining options available on the luxury ship, including six restaurants—including Anthology, Emporium Marketplace, Sakura, Marble & Co. Grill, Fil Rouge, Med Yacht Club. He also describes the manyother dining experiences onboard, such as a Chef’s Kitchen that on this sailing was created by Garanger himself. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.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.

Hear from the Captain of Explora Journeys’ Brilliant New Ship

Capt. Serena Melani, master of Explora I, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her absolutely beautiful new luxury ship, the first of six from Explora Journeys. Capt. Melani details the ships capabilities, the design and the sailings for her new vessel, as well as what your clients will experience. She also tells the story of her own remarkable maritime career. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.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.

Explora I Makes Its Long Awaited Debut in Europe

Chris Austin, chief sales officer for Explora Journeys, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on the first sailing of the brand new, ultra-luxury Explorer I about the ship’s spacious public areas, beautiful décor, multiple pools, brilliant sun decks, exquisite dining options and more. For the past three years, Austin has been actively and successfully selling a ship that didn’t exist—but now he has an exemplary vessel that truly lives up to all the advance hype. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.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.

How Crystal Successfully Revamped Crystal Serenity in Record Time

Bernie Leypold, senior vice president of hotel operations for Crystal Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about how Crystal completely refurbished the beautiful Crystal Serenity to return it to its former glory and then some. Leypold, a veteran Crystal executive, describes how he helped oversee the renovation of the ship, which took place in less than a year from when the Crystal brand was purchased by Manfredi Lefebvre D’Ovidio. For more information, visit www.crystalcruises.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.

How You Can Sell the “New” Crystal Cruises Today

Marett Taylor, chief sales officer for A&K Travel Group and Crystal Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the top selling points for the “new” Crystal, including fine dining at top specialty restaurants and the main Waterside restaurants; larger, redecorated suites; the same top service from a very experienced crew; and beautiful redesigned public spaces. For more information, visit www.crystalcruises.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.

How the Refurbished Crystal Serenity Accommodates Your Clients

Scott Peterson, hotel director on Crystal Serenity, talks with James Shillinglaw on Insider Travel Report about the ship’s newly expanded and redecorated suites, top dining venues and top-notch service from the crew make cruising with Crystal a true luxury experience once again. Peterson, a veteran hotel director with Crystal, describes what’s new on Serenity and what’s still the same at a very high standard. For more information visit www.crystalcruises.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.

How Crystal Serenity’s Crew Is Back to Deliver a Crystal Luxury Experience

Rick Spath, cruise director once again on Crystal Serenity, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the refurbished ship’s return to service along with 80 percent of its former crew. Spath, who was cruise director of Serenity for the former Crystal Cruises, details how he and his fellow crew members are thrilled to be back onboard, how the ship delivers great entertainment and dining, along with larger, renovated suites, and how it continues to deliver a truly Crystal luxury experience. For more information, visit www.crystalcruises.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.

How Crystal is Back Big Time With the Refurbished Crystal Serenity

Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, parent of the “new” Crystal Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw aboard the completely refurbished Crystal Serenity about why the company purchased the Crystal brand and its two ocean ships, Serenity and Symphony. Levis also tells why owner Manfredi Lefebvre D’Ovidio, former owner of Silversea Cruises, wanted to get back into a business his family has been in for many years. She details how Crystal Serenity was completely new and expanded suites, refurbished restaurants and  how 80 percent of the crew has returned to serve Crystal guests. For more information, visit www.crystalcruises.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.

What Is the New Luxury Cruise Experience and How Can You Sell It

Here is a preview of one of the panels taking place this week at Virtual RoadShows-Selling Cruise Vacations. Luxury cruising has evolved dramatically in just the last few years, with new players entering the market and the concept of luxury itself changing as well. Luxury cruise lines are adding new and more exotic itineraries, refocusing on world cruises, changing the onboard product, and offering a more inclusive experience. This panel looks at how luxury cruising is changing and how travel advisors can better sell it to their higher end customers. Moderated by Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report. this panel includes Tricia Wolf, vice president of sales for Oceania Cruises; Brenna Abels, director trade management for Regent Seven Seas Cruises; and Elizabeth Fettes, vice president of sales for Scenic and Emerald Cruises,. To join Virtual Roadshows-Selling Cruises Vacations,, visit and sign up at www.taconnect.travel/agent-reg-cruise-vacations-vrs. 

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.

Discover Modern Boutique Luxury at Casa Angelina on the Amalfi Coast

Back in March we interviewed Annarita Aprea, director of sales and marketing at Casa Angelina, in New York's Central Park about her luxury property on the Amalfi Coast. Now James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report talks with her once again, but this time on the rooftop of Casa Angelina, itself, located in the tiny town of Praiano, Italy. The property has 37 rooms with gorgeous views of nearby Positano, a gourmet restaurant where you can dine al fresco,  pool and casual restaurant, a spa and unique modern glass sculpture throughout. For more information, visit www.casangelina.com. 

Where to Stay in a Palazzo in Ravello on the Famed Amalfi Coast

Mariella Avino, managing director of Palazzo Avino, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her legendary family owned luxury hotel in Ravello, Italy. Avino tells you how your clients can dine at the hotel’s Michelin-star restaurant with incredible views of the Amalfi coast, the range of unique accommodations that can satisfy any guest, and even a newly renovated beach club located directly on the sea far below the property. For more information, visit www.palazzoavino.com. 

Why It’s a Whole New Brasil—and That’s Brasil with an ”S”

Jaqueline Gil, marketing director for Visit Brasil (Embratur), talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the country's new tourism marketing campaign based on how Brasilians spell their nation's name with an “s” instead of a “z." The campaign plays on words with an with "s" in them and defines what makes for an authentic Brasil experience. Gil also discusses the return of U.S. visitors to her country, new flights and connectivity, including partnerships with Latam and Delta Air Lines, new hotels, events, sustainability, travel advisor programs and visitor safety. For more information, visit www.VisitBrasil.com/Spectacular.

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.

What the New CEO of Nocturne Luxury Villas Has Planned for Travel Advisors

Scott Wiseman, the new CEO of Nocturne Luxury Villas and former senior vice president and general manager of ALG Vacations, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the history of Nocturne, its recent mergers, his plans for the company, what makes it different from other companies offering villas, and special incentives for travel advisors. For more information, visit www.NocturneLuxuryVillas.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.

See the Future for Travel Advisors in ASTA’s YPS Person of the Year

Brandi McBride, a travel advisor with Connoisseur Travel, talks with James Shillinglaw about how younger travel professionals are entering the agency business and finding new leadership roles in professional organizations like ASTA. And McBride should know, she is McBride is on the New York ASTA (NYASTA) board as secretary and liaison to ASTA's Young Professionals Society. Even more significantly, she was named ASTA's YPS Person of the Year for 2023. In this interview, she talks about how she got into the business, how she's grown in the profession and why being a travel advisor is such a rewarding job for younger people For more information, visit www.asta.org and www.ctltd.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.

How Ted Turner Reserves Combine Sustainability and Luxury

Jade McBride, president of Ted Turner Reserves, sits down with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report to talk about his complex of luxury sustainable properties in New Mexico developed by media tycoon Ted Turner on his own land and homes. These award-winning resorts offer true Western getaways for guests with great food, accommodations, wildlife, and activities. For more information, visit www.tedturnerreserves.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.