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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
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Franco Pedone, cluster general manager at VidantaWorld Riviera Maya, talks with Sherman DeJon of Insider Travel Report about the 1,000-acre property’s diverse accommodations, including the new 52-suite Jungle Park Hotel, more than 40 dining options, multiple pools, an exclusive Cirque du Soleil theater and the Jungle Aqua Experience water park. Pedone also discusses the resort’s jungle setting, sustainability efforts, and the immersive guest experiences available. For more information, visit vidanta.com.
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Luis Capdeville, president and chairman of Visit Azores, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about the islands’ sustainability efforts, its recognition as one of the world's best adventure destinations, and the exclusive experiences offered in the Azores. Capdeville also highlights the diversity of the nine islands, visitor trends and the region’s approach to maintaining responsible tourism. For more information, visit visitazores.com.
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
A lot of exciting things are happening this year at Princess Cruises and Carmen Roig, vice president of sales for Princess, can’t wait to share them.. From new sailings departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to new ships in Europe, to great sailings from the number one cruise line in Alaska, Princess has an exciting lineup of cruises that you can sell now. And, of course, there's a special offer that your clients will love! For more information, visit www.onesourcecruises.com.
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Jim Tedesco, vice president of sales for ALG Vacations® (ALGV), talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how air-inclusive vacation packages can help travel advisors increase earnings through air commissions, WAVES® points, and bonus incentives while providing clients with better pricing and added value. He also talks about how packaging air and hotel enhances customer retention by offering a seamless, full-service experience. Watch now to learn how air-inclusive bookings can drive your business forward. For more information, visit algvacations.com.
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Bianca Bonaldi, art and arts & crafts expert at The Venice Venice Hotel, talks with Michela Guzy of Insider Travel Report about the property's design, sustainability and guest experience. Bonaldi discusses the hotel's curated art and design collection, its commitment to supporting local artisans, and the immersive retail experience for guests. She also highlights the hotel's role in hosting fashion and cultural events. For more information, visit venicevenice.com.
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Alfredo Bataller, owner and CEO of SHA Wellness Resorts, talks with James Shillinglaw about his new group of luxury uber-wellness resorts, which has properties in Spain and Mexico, and soon in Dubai. Bataller details the customized week-long wellness programs that each of his resorts delivers to a high-end client base. For more information, visit www.SHAWellness.com.
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Jan Hundrieser, general manager of SLS Playa Mujeres talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his new luxury resort just north of Cancun. The first luxury all-inclusive resort from SLS, this property is designed for families, couples and solo travelers. Hundrieser showcases the resort’s many restaurants with diverse cuisine, a large spa, and a great pool and beach area. For more information, visit https://slshotels.com/playa-mujeres.
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Insider Travel Report’s James Shillinglaw talks with two top First in Service travel advisors, Melissa Wu and Yaron Yarimi, about why they joined the host agency and what programs and services have helped them become more profitable, and what of travel they specialize in. See both interviews back-to-back on Insider Travel Report. For more information, visit www.firstinservice.com.
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Pascal Visintainer, senior vice president-global sales, luxury & lifestyle brands for Accor, sits down with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report to talk about his hotel conglomerate’s plans to reach into all segments of luxury and lifestyle with new hotels, new luxury trains and even a luxury yacht. From the upcoming Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, to La Dolce Vita, the new Italian luxury train, to new hotels like the SLS Playa Mujeres inclusive resort, Accor has all the bases covered. For more information, visit www.orient-express.com, www.evermoreresort.com and www.accor.com.
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Fernando Gonzalez, CEO of First in Service T (F1S), and Gina Gabbard, chief strategy officer, talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at the third annual conference for the nearly 35-year-old, Virtuoso-affiliated host agency. Gonzalez and Gabbard reveal new programs, new hires and new strategies aimed at making travel advisor members more profitable than ever. For more information, visit www.firstinservice.com.
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Cherrye Moore, founder and president of My Bella Vita, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her family-run tour operator, which specializes in programs to Calabria, the region of Italy at the bottom of the “boot.” Moore’s company, which she started with her husband, a native Calabrian, explores a destination that just could be the next big thing in Italy. My Bella Vita also offers tours of Sicily and Malta. For more information, visit www.mybellavita.com
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Sebastian Gurevich, hotel manager for The Chatwal New York, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his hotel has evolved since it became part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. One of our favorite properties in the Broadway district, The Chatwal has kept its sumptuous art-deco suites, public rooms, restaurant and bar—and added a special new suite paying tribute to “The Outsiders,” the Tony award-winning musical. The suite will remain until at least the end of the year—or even as long as the show runs. For more information, visit www.thechatwalny.com or www.hyatt.com
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Sebastian Gurevich, hotel manager for The Chatwal New York, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his hotel has evolved since it became part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. One of our favorite properties in the Broadway district, The Chatwal has kept its sumptuous art-deco suites, public rooms, restaurant and bar—and added a special new suite paying tribute to “The Outsiders,” the Tony award-winning musical. The suite will remain until at least the end of the year—or even as long as the show runs. For more information, visit www.thechatwalny.com or www.hyatt.com
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Darcio Henriques, executive chef of Octant Douro Valley, talks with Michaela Guzy of Insider Travel Report about the hotel's culinary philosophy and sustainability efforts. Henriques highlights the focus on locally sourced ingredients, diverse dining experiences, and the upcoming addition of 20 new villas in May. He also discusses regional wine pairings, signature dishes and the hotel's eco-friendly initiatives. For more information, visit www.octanthotels.com.
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Mark Steadman, general manager of Macdonald Linden Hall Golf and Spa, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his full-service resort located on a country estate near Newcastle, England. Guests staying at the property can explore the many attractions in Northumberland and then retreat to the hotel’s spa or play golf at its country club. For more information, www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/linden-hall.
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Kama Winters, president of Delta Vacations, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how her wholesale travel package company has grown but continues to support the travel agency trade. Winters details the new destinations served by Delta Vacations as its parent airline expands its route network. She also reveals the latest travel advisor support programs, including the return of Delta Vacations University this fall, and a veteran call center with experienced agents. For more information, visit www.deltavacations.com.
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Ian Thomas, chief operating officer for Newcastle Gateshead Initiative, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the many charms and attractions of this city in the North East of England. Formerly known for coal and industry, Newcastle has emerged as a center of education, culture, history and innovative architecture—and yes, it has a pretty good football (soccer) team, too. For more information, visit www.ngi.org.uk or www.visitbritain.com.
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Cat, our guide at the Beamish Museum, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, this open-air museum, which brings the history of North East England to life at its 1820s Pockerley, 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village, 1940s Farm, 1950s Town and 1950s Spain’s Field Farm exhibit areas. For more information, visit www.beamish.org.uk.
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Mohamad El-Algoury, general manager of Sheraton Jumeirah Beach, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his property has renovated and revamped to keep up with the wave of new resorts in Dubai. Located on Jumeirah Beach, this property offers new accommodations, multiple restaurants and a renovated pool and spa. For more information, visit www.marriott.com.
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Catherine Hodgeson, head of marketing and communications for the Auckland Project, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about this historic attraction in North East England that includes Auckland Palace, former home of the Archbishop of Auckland, and the Faith Museum. Discover a historic town, palace and fascinating museum that has been the heart of the Anglican religion for hundreds of years. For more information, visit https://aucklandproject.org.
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Andy Stuart, former president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and now co-chairman of host agency Trevello Travel Group, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what he’s been up to since he left NCL in 2019. Now Stuart, long known as a supporter of the travel agency business, has ended up as co-chairman and investor in Trevello, a Canadian host travel agency that is now expanding into the U.S. through the acquisition of Gifted Travel Network. For more information, visit www.trevello.com.
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Jacques Varet, general manager of FCC Angkor by Avani in Cambodia, talks with Benjamin Bass of Insider Travel Report about how the property preserves its French colonial heritage while integrating modern amenities, sustainability initiatives, and locally sourced materials. Varet also highlights the hotel's dining experiences, wellness offerings, cultural programs, and its commitment to providing an authentic Cambodian experience. For more information, visit www.avanihotels.com/en/angkor.
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Anna Unger, our guide from Newcastle Tour Company, gives James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report a tour of the city of Durham, with its magnificent cathedral, castle, medieval old town, and walking trails on the banks of the River Wear. A university town with lots of pubs and restaurants, Durham is also a great to explore the North East of England. For more information, visit www.thisisdurham.com, www.newcastletourcompany.comor www.visitbritain.com.
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Dr. Chris Ferguson, visitor experience director at Ad Gefrin, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his unique museum and whisky distillery in the heart of Northumberland in England. Ad Gefrin features a museum showcasing the history of the Anglo-Saxon people, but it also has a distillery that you can tour and taste some great single malt whisky, plus a wonderful restaurant with local specialties. For more information, visit https://adgefrin.co.uk or www.visitbritain.com.
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Michael, our guide from Brit Movie Tours, takes James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, on a tour of the great movie locations of London, visiting the “sets” for “Mission Impossible,” “Harry Potter,” “Bridget Jones,” “Paddington” and a whole lot more. Visit Britain’s new “Starring Great Britain” campaign is focused on the movies, so this is just the right tour to take at the right time. For more information, visit www.britmovietours.com or www.visitbritain.com.
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Camille Olivere, chief sales officer for the Globus family of brands, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the company’s tailored Italy experiences, how Globus can help you maximize efficiency, commissionable earnings and overall value. She also explains how Avalon Waterways can help you get more bookings through new river cruise offerings in France and Portugal. For more information, visit www.traveladvisorportal.com.
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Vincent Guironnet, general manager for the Apurva Kempinski Bali, talks with Benjamin Bass of Insider Travel Report about the property's Indonesian architectural influences, sustainability initiatives and commitment to delivering luxury experiences, including its hydroponic gardens, regenerative agriculture and cultural engagement programs. Guironnet also highlights the resort's dining options, wellness philosophy and goal of achieving carbon neutrality. For more information, visit www.kempinski.com/en/bali/the-apurva-kempinski-bali.
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Nicola Andrews, palaces group director at Historic Royal Palaces, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about Hampton Court Palace, famed as the residence of Henry VIII. Andrews explains how you can set up visits to Hampton Court and other royal palaces in Britain. For more information, visit www.hrp.org.uk or www.visitbritain.com.
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his growing adventure tour operator. Intrepid just completed its largest acquisition to date by purchasing Swadee Reizen, which offers bike tours and more in the Netherlands. It also just moved its North American headquarters to Denver, and it now offers tour programs in nearly every country in the world. For more information, visit www.intrepidtravel.com.
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Malcolm Hendry, managing director of 100 Princes Street hotel, talks with James Shillinglaw about his intimate luxury boutique property located on Princes Street with spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle. With just 30 luxurious rooms, this Red Carnation hotel delivers personalized service, with its sumptuous lounge and bar open for breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner. And yes, we enjoyed a single malt with Malcolm to close out the evening. For more information, visit https://100princes-street.com or www.redcarnationhotels.com.
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Claire Watson Armstrong, owner of Bamburgh Castle, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her family’s medieval fort on the coast of Northumberland in the North East of England. Armstrong details the history of the castle, how her family came to own it, and yes, there have been a few great movies filmed here—and you can even stay in the castle. For more information, visit www.bamburghcastle.com.
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Allison Metcalf, executive vice president for North America for Tourism Ireland, and Siobhan McManany, director of markets and partnerships, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Tourism Ireland’s marketing initiatives for 2025. They discuss Ireland's tourism growth, increased flight access, expanded hotel options, and new travel experiences, including food tours, outdoor adventures, film tourism, and major sporting events like the Open Championship and the upcoming NFL game in Dublin. They also highlight off-season travel opportunities, ongoing partnerships with U.S. tour operators, and resources available for travel advisors. For more information, visit www.tourismireland.com/trade.
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Peter Greenberg, travel editor for CBS News among other travel-related ventures, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about his new “Hidden Uganda” travel documentary, which premiers this weekend on many PBS stations across the country. Part of a series of TV programs exploring new and off-the-beaten-track destinations, “Hidden Uganda” provides a look at the culture, the food, the wildlife and natural attractions of this African country in a way only Greenberg can deliver. For more information, visit www.petergreenberg.com.
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Jill Wheelan, brand ambassador for Princess Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the new Love by Britto restaurant on Sun Princess and Star Princess. Wheelan, the actress who played Vicki Stubing, the daughter of Captain Merrill Stubing, on “The Love Boat” TV series, set on a Princess ship, was at last week’s Princess event, a pop-up Love by Britto restaurant on New York’s Chelsea Pier. She gives her take on the new restaurant and a lot more about the new generation of Princess ships. For more information, visit www.princess.com.
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
David Neeleman, CEO and founder of Breeze Airways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about how his domestic point-to-point airline is now profitable after three years and despite the pandemic. Neeleman, who founded three successful airlines and revived a third during his career, also offers his thoughts on the future of the airline business as it consolidates and divides into different kinds of carriers. For more information, visit www.flybreeze.com.
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Robert Welsh, owner Small Car Big City in London, talks with James Shillinglaw about his classic Mini Cooper tours of London. On a VisitBritain tour operator fam, Welsh showcased the multiple tour programs focused on film locations throughout the city. In our case, we toured Paddington to visit locations for the “Paddington” movies, drawing attention to ourselves with our Mini Cooper vehicles. For more information, visit https://smallcarbigcity.com.
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Master chef Rudi Sodamin and renowned artist Romero Britto talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about their signature restaurant aboard Sun Princess (and soon Star Princess). Sodamin and Romero combined to create a dining experience that would meet the demands of couples in love everywhere. And last week they launched a three-day pop-up Love By Britto in New York’s Chelsea Pier to showcase their creation. For more information, visit www.princess.com.
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Vicky Miller, the new CEO of VisitScotland, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the latest visitor numbers and the tourism campaigns the country has in the U.S. She details the many attractions Scotland has, highlighting the connections to film and TV series that help promote the country, and how Scotland has focused on sustainable tourism. For more information, visit www.visitscotland.com.
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
David Toso, a guide and investor in Top Tasting Tours in London, takes James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on a walking tour of London featuring the famed hotel where the Rolling Stones stayed before their concerts, a stroll past the Royal Albert Hall and through Kensington, and afternoon tea at the Orangery in the park. For more information, visit www.toptastingtours.com.
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Walaa Badour, cruise director, Egyptologist and tour director on AmaLilia, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about AmaWaterways' Nile River itineraries. Badour describes the full 12-day itinerary, including stops in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel, featuring guided tours of historic sites, museum visits, cultural experiences and Nile River cruising. Badour also explains AmaWaterways' approach to accessibility, service, exclusive excursions and the Egyptian government's safety measures for travelers. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Network (TLN), talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at TLN’s annual media briefing about his network’s record sales in 2024 and why this is still the Golden Age for travel advisors. Lovell details what’s been selling on land and at sea for TLN’s agencies and why the future looks bright for their business, with help from TLN’s Agent Profiler lead generation tool, Agent Universe intranet, SNAP booking tool, Cruise Complete and more. For more information, visit www.travelleadersnetwork.com or www.travelleaders.com.
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Tom Marchant, co-founder of London-based Black Tomato, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his luxury travel company offering bespoke experiences around the world. To celebrate 20 years in business, Black Tomato just launched a new product line, The Pursuit of Feeling, based on five emotional pillars and featuring 100 curated experiences. It’s featuring a new podcast and The Feelings Engine, where travelers play with new AI-powered tool to plan their next trip. For more information, visit www.blacktomato.com.
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Walaa Badour, cruise director, Egyptologist and tour director on AmaLilia, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about AmaWaterways' Nile River ships, AmaDahlia and AmaLilia. Badnour describes the accommodations, dining, entertainment and amenities on board, including a gym, spa and specialty restaurant. Badour also highlights the accessibility on the ships, themed parties, cultural performances and the Egyptian government's extensive safety measures. This is the first of a two-part interview. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Patricia Yates, CEO of Visit Britain, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at a unique location, Hampton Court Palace, one that certainly has served as a location for many a movie. Indeed, Yates reveals details of her country’s new Starring Britain campaign using familiar movies to promote the destination. For more information, visit www.visitbritain.com.
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report talks with the owners of Dear Strangers, a new mixology bar and restaurant on West 4th Street in Manhattan. Three experienced bartenders—Ivan Papic, Ivan Radulovic and Bratislav Glisic, all originally from Serbia—now co-own this lounge, which also offers some great savory and sweet food to go with innovative drinks. It’s a great place to recommend to your clients exploring Greenwich Village. For more information, visit https://dearstrangersnyc.com.
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
In this insightful interview, Willie Fernandez, chief marketing officer of Rental Escapes, sits down with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report to discuss the world of luxury villa rentals. Fernandez shares his expertise on the growing demand for high-end, private villas, offering travelers an unmatched combination of space, privacy and personalized service. He also dives into the unique benefits of booking a villa through Rental Escapes, including tailored experiences, concierge services and handpicked properties in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. For more information, visit www.rentalescapes.com.
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Heather Bowen, owner of Polka Dots and Wishes Travel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on Valiant Lady about how she’s found success selling Virgin Voyages. Bowen, a top 10 selling travel advisor for the cruise line, focuses on the adults-only brand’s top dining, entertainment and Virgin vibe to convince travelers that Virgin is the only way to go. For more information, visit www.firstmates.com.
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Manuela Fahringer, general manager of the Zemi Miches All-Inclusive, Curio Collection in the Dominican Republic, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her new resort in an increasingly popular region of this Caribbean paradise. Fahringer details the accommodations, the dining and the activities available at this luxury property, which is designed for families, couples and solo travelers. For more information, visit www.hilton.com/en/hotels/pujmiqq-zemi-miches-all-inclusive-resort.
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Joshua Harrell, chief revenue officer of WorldVia, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his new book, “Travel Marketeering: A Complete Guide to Starting (or Refreshing) Your Travel Agency,: Harrell talks about his business background and why he was inspired to write the book, which is aimed at helping entrepreneurial agency owners or those new to the business. “Travel Marketeering” is a soup-to-nuts guide to starting, operating and marketing travel, an essential guide to finding success in the agency business. For more information, visit Harrell’s agency website at www.worldvia.com or buy the book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Robert Huss, owner of Getaway Guys, part of KBI Travel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on Valiant Lady about why he decided to focus on selling Virgin Voyages. Huss, one of the top 10 travel advisors selling Virgin Voyages, explains how he’s found success selling this exclusively all-adult brand, from the dining to the entertainment to the Virgin vibe. For more information, visit www.firstmates.com.