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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
Tuesday Aug 05, 2025
Tuesday Aug 05, 2025
David Chait, founder & CEO of travel tech firm Travefy, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the products and services his company has developed for travel advisors. Specifically, Travefy has just introduced a new CRM Suite for advisors that includes invoicing, commission tracking, integrated email and a contact management system in one unified workspace. For more information, visit www.travefy.com.
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Farah Barhorst, director-onboard revenue for Holland America Line, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the return of the behind-the-scenes ship tour. For a price, guests can now get a comprehensive tour of their Holland America ship, going from the bridge down to the laundry rooms, food storage areas, recycling centers and more. For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Sunday Aug 03, 2025
Sunday Aug 03, 2025
Catherine Powell, the new CEO of AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her new role, her background and her plans for the luxury river cruise line going forward. Powell tells us about her first river cruises on AmaWaterways, her impressions of the product and how she intends to keep working with the travel agency distribution system to sell her company’s river cruises. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.
Saturday Aug 02, 2025
Saturday Aug 02, 2025
Jacki Marks, global head of trade brands at ALG Vacations, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how the Kindness Conference and Kindness Connection have evolved to foster advisor education, community giveback and deeper industry connections. She also shares why kindness has become a core pillar of ALGV's culture and how the movement is helping travel advisors grow their business. For more information, visit www.algvacations.com/kindness.
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
Russell Galbut, a top real estate developer and founder of Crescent Seas, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his new luxury residential cruise project aboard Oceania Insignia, one of the ships that will part of his company’s new fleet. Crescent Seas will offer residents the chance to cruise the world while staying in the suites they’ve purchased. For their part, travel advisors can get involved by helping sell those residences and then renting them out when they aren’t being used. For more information, visit www.crescentseas.com.
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
David Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about what’s to come at Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas. Herrera details the upcoming pier set to be completed by the end of the year, a new water park featuring a 28,000-square-foot pool, a kids’ areas, sports facilities and other amenities scheduled to debut by mid-2026. These upgrades are now being previewed at “pop-ups” in New York and Miami. For more information, visit www.ncl.com/gsc.
Tuesday Jul 29, 2025
Tuesday Jul 29, 2025
Matan Lerner, the new general manager of the King David Hotel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the most famous hotel in Jerusalem, Israel and arguably the Middle East. Lerner tells us how he rose quickly in the Dan Hotels group to take the top job overseeing the company’s crown jewel. He details the history of the King David and what he wants to do with the legacy he’s been given. For more information, visit www.danhotels.com.
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Leigh Barnes, president of the Americas for Intrepid Travel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his Australia-based adventure travel company’s strategic growth into the Americas, with the U.S. and Canada now considered its number one market. Intrepid now features a wide array of small group trips using all forms of transportation and going to some of the world’s most exotic destinations. For more information, visit www.intrepidtravel.com.
Sunday Jul 27, 2025
Sunday Jul 27, 2025
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about Carnival’s Celebration Key, the cruise line’s newly opened $600 million private destination on Grand Bahama. With dedicated restaurants, bars, shopping, white-sand beaches and some of the largest fresh-water pools in the Caribbean & Bahamas, Celebration Key is ready to welcome your clients with new experiences and activities. For more information, visit www.carnival.com or www.goccl.com.
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Justin Barnette of South African Tourism talks with David Cogswell of Insider Travel Report about Africa’s Travel Indaba trade show and the country’s growing appeal to U.S. and Canadian travelers. Barnett highlights the value of travel advisors, the rise in repeat visitors, and how South Africa’s new “Come Find Your Joy” campaign promotes immersive, meaningful travel experiences. For more information, visit www.southafrica.net.
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Briony Brookes of Cape Town Tourism talks with David Cogswell of Insider Travel Report about why the city is gaining popularity with American travelers and being named Time Out’s Best City to Visit. Brookes highlights Cape Town’s diversity, cultural experiences, repeat visitor appeal and the lasting connection many visitors feel with the city and its people. For more information, visit www.capetown.travel.
Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
Malinee Nitikasetsunthorn, executive director of the Americas region for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), talks with Jeanie Fang of Insider Travel Report about the Thailand Travel Mart Plus and its focus on connecting qualified Thai sellers with global buyers. Nitikasetsunthorn highlights sustainable tourism standards, B2B opportunities, hosted benefits for advisors and why travel professionals should attend future marts. For more information, visit www.tourismthailand.org.
Tuesday Jul 22, 2025
Tuesday Jul 22, 2025
Vichit Mukura, executive chef of Royal Osha in Bangkok, talks with Jeanie Fang of Insider Travel Report about Thai fine dining and the restaurant’s Michelin recognition. He also shares how Royal Osha became a film location for HBO’s The White Lotus and how it continues to attract global travelers. For more information, visit www.royalosha.com.
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Frank Marini, president and CEO of Railbookers Group, is interviewed by James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his groundbreaking and innovative rail tour company. Marini reveals the secrets to how his company has grown so rapidly and so successfully, including the fact that all its staff are remote (there is no HQ). Marini has even written a fascinating book about his business strategy called “Staying on Track.” For more information, visit www.railbookersgroup.com.
Friday Jul 18, 2025
Friday Jul 18, 2025
John Roberts, group director of sustainability and conservation at Minor Hotels, talks with Jeannie Fang of Insider Travel Report about the company’s elephant conservation work and broader sustainability efforts across its portfolio. Roberts explains initiatives like solar power, coral planting and anti-poaching programs, and how these efforts support local communities, protect wildlife and engage guests through hands-on activities.. For more information, visit www.minorhotels.com.
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Captain Serena Melani, master of Explora II, talks with Michaela Guzy of Insider Travel Report about leading the luxury ship and her groundbreaking role as one of the few female captains in the cruise industry. Melani discusses her career journey, her approach to managing a diverse international crew and creating an intimate yacht-like guest experience. For more information, visit www.explorajourneys.com.
Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
David Tobin, CEO of Dream Escape, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about creating tailor-made luxury journeys in the U.K. and Ireland, providing deep knowledge, exclusive experiences and end-to-end service for time-poor clients. Tobin also discusses Dream Escape’s 20th anniversary, its expansion into events and consultancy, and its commitment to working closely with travel advisors. For more information, visit www.dreamescape.co.uk.
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Captain Josef Husmann, captain of Sea Cloud Spirit, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how luxury sailing under actual cloth sails makes cruising more sustainable, adventurous and romantic. Husmann also describes the teamwork required on board and the importance of sailing traditions. For more information, visit www.seacloud.com.
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Mario Naar, owner of Miami’s Chevre, chef Claudio Giordano and sommelier Nils Lackner, otherwise known as the "cheese” guy, the “fish” guy, and the "wine” guy, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how they lead a “cultivated journey” aboard Sea Cloud Spirit through Corsica and Sardinia. They share how Sea Cloud Spirit’s top-quality ingredients and immersive food and wine focus create an unforgettable luxury sailing experience. For more information, visit www.seacloud.com.
Friday Jul 11, 2025
Friday Jul 11, 2025
Bob Bradley of The Pampered Cruiser, a Virtuoso agency, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about why Sea Cloud Spirit is a perfect fit for Virtuoso advisors and their luxury clients seeking an intimate, all-inclusive sailing experience. Bradley highlights the ship’s romantic hand-raised sails, spacious staterooms with verandas, unique small-port itineraries, and onboard perks like fine dining, a full spa, and Virtuoso-exclusive amenities. For more information, visit www.seacloud.com.
Friday Jul 11, 2025
Friday Jul 11, 2025
Simon Mayle, event director for the ILTM North America luxury travel show, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about this year’s event, scheduled for Oct. 8-10 at the Baha Mar resort in the Bahamas. The event, which features more than 500 luxury buyers (advisors) and 500 luxury suppliers, will be co-located this year with the PROUD Experiences LGQBT+ show. Mayle tells us all about the many benefits of attending ILTM North America —and highlights that there is still some limited space available for qualified and approved buyers. For more information or to apply to attend, email Simon Mayle at simon.mayle@rxglobal.com or visit www.iltm.com/northamerica.
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Mario Naar, owner of Miami’s Chevre, chef Claudio Giordano, and sommelier Nils Lackner (the "cheese guy," "the fish guy," and the "wine guy") talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about leading a special “cultivated journey” aboard Sea Cloud Spirit through Corsica and Sardinia. They share how Sea Cloud Spirit’s top-quality ingredients and immersive food and wine focus create an unforgettable luxury sailing experience. For more information, visit www.seacloud.com.
Tuesday Jul 08, 2025
Tuesday Jul 08, 2025
Angie Licea, president of Global Travel Collection, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the debut of Arrive, the company’s new luxury advisor conference designed to replace Elevate. Licea shares how the event delivered curated one-on-one meetings, innovative engagement sessions, advisor and partner recognition, and networking that inspired record attendance and immediate sellouts for next year’s event. She also discusses GTC’s integration journey, advisor growth strategy, and why the brand continues to lead in luxury travel. For more information, visit www.globaltravelcollection.com.
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Mirell Reyes, CEO North America, and Kevin Smith, chief sales officer North America for Sea Cloud Cruises, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about expanding the brand’s presence in North America. They outline the appeal of the all-inclusive, luxury sailing experience—from hand-raised sails and intimate itineraries to strong commission opportunities and group incentives for travel advisors. For more information, visit www.seacloud.com.
Friday Jul 04, 2025
Friday Jul 04, 2025
Petra Zierer, cluster director of sales at Kempinski Palace Portorož, talks with Olivia Liveng of Insider Travel Report about why this five-star hotel on Slovenia’s Adriatic coast is a must-book for luxury travelers. Zierer shares the hotel’s unique blend of historic palace charm and modern design, its spa offerings using local ingredients, and immersive culinary and outdoor experiences in Portorož and Piran. For more information, visit www.kempinski.com/en/palace-portoroz.
Thursday Jul 03, 2025
Thursday Jul 03, 2025
Lindsay Pearlman, newly appointed president of Travel Leaders Network, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about his vision for the network, including strategic growth, a more personalized approach to agency support, and major tech tools like Agent Profiler and Snap. Pearlman discusses recruitment success, the importance of targeted training, and why travel advisors remain critical as travelers seek more complex, customized experiences. For more information, visit www.travelleadersnetwork.com.
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Marilyn Conroy, executive vice president of business development at Riviera Travel, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about why travel advisors are central to Riviera’s growth strategy. Conroy highlights the brand’s high commissions (up to 18%), lucrative group policies, solo traveler options, and guaranteed guest satisfaction. Conroy also shares updates on new ships, training resources, and enhanced support tools for advisors. For more information, visit www.rivierarivercruises.com.
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Bonnie Garrett, business development manager for the West Coast at CIE Tours, joins James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what makes CIE Tours a top choice for booking group travel. She highlights the ease of managing groups thanks to dedicated support, strong earning potential for travel advisors, and exceptional guest satisfaction—boasting a 95 percent satisfaction rate backed by more than 90 years of expertise. To learn more, visit CIE Tours’ Group Travel page at: https://www.cietours.com/travel-types/group-travel?utm_source=itr&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=20250626_GroupsInterview_B2B
Tuesday Jul 01, 2025
Tuesday Jul 01, 2025
Mihaela Rupnik Cek, director general at TourSlove/TourismSlovenia, talks with Olivia Liveng of Insider Travel Report about what makes Slovenia a standout European destination—from Lake Bled and Ljubljana to the country’s commitment to sustainability and authentic local experiences. Cek highlights Slovenia’s unique blend of alpine and Mediterranean landscapes, immersive cultural activities, and diverse gastronomy, as well as its focus on avoiding mass tourism while preserving hidden gems. For more information, visit www.slovenia.info.
Monday Jun 30, 2025
Monday Jun 30, 2025
Alan Henman, assistant commissioner of tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about record-breaking growth driven by strong airlift and increased cruise calls. He shares updates on new hotel openings and renovations across St. Thomas and St. Croix, plus refreshed marketing campaigns. Henman also highlights tools available to travel advisors to help them sell the islands. For more information, visit www.visitusvi.com.
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Paul Pennicook, interim CEO of Experience Turks and Caicos, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the destination’s new DMO structure and how it supports sustainability, inclusiveness and competitiveness. He outlines developments including new hotels in South Caicos, high ADRs on Grace Bay, expanded outreach to consortia like Virtuoso, and a renewed focus on travel advisor education and fams. For more information, visit www.turksandcaicostourism.com.
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
Lewis Louis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about why Saint Lucia is gaining traction with travel advisors. He outlines new development incentives, regenerative tourism initiatives, and how the island is channeling qualified travel leads directly to advisors through its Saint Lucia Expert program. For more information, visit www.stlucia.org.
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Fiona Ashton, event manager for the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how this niche, B2B event connects top golf tour operators with resorts, courses and tourism boards from 45 countries. Ashton explains how hosted buyers are vetted and supported—with hotel and flight subsidies—and outlines the 2024 show format, which includes a golf tournament, one-to-one meetings, speed networking and a gala dinner, all taking place Oct. 20–23 at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France. For more information, visit www.igtmarket.com.
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Marva Williams, CEO and director of tourism for Discover Dominica, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how new nonstop flights from Newark and Miami are driving interest from North American travelers. She highlights Dominica’s eco-luxury appeal, including upscale resorts, natural wonders and the upcoming Valley of Desolation cable car. Williams also discusses cultural draws like Carnival, the World Creole Music Festival and bouyon music. For more information, visit www.discoverdominica.com.
Marva Williams, CEO and director of tourism for Discover Dominica, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about why the island is gaining traction with North American travelers, thanks to new nonstop flights from Newark and Miami. She highlights Dominica’s eco-luxury appeal—from upscale resorts like Secret Bay and InterContinental to 365 rivers, hundreds of waterfalls, and the upcoming Valley of Desolation cable car. Williams also outlines cultural draws including Carnival, the World Creole Music Festival, and the island’s signature bouyon music. For more information, visit www.discoverdominica.com.
Monday Jun 23, 2025
Monday Jun 23, 2025
What’s new, what’s next, and why NOW is the perfect time to take another look at Celestyal.
Sunday Jun 22, 2025
Sunday Jun 22, 2025
Ray Gonsalves, restaurant manager for Celestyal Journey, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about the cruise line’s rotating menus, fresh Greek-sourced ingredients and onboard culinary production. He highlights the ship’s specialty dining options, entertainment-style service and strong accommodations for dietary needs including gluten-free and allergy-friendly meals. For more information, visit www.celestyal.com.
All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title 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.
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Gary Hendrick Dominguez, deputy director of international marketing and promotions for the Cayman Islands, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the island’s eight-day summer campaign, growth in U.S. airlift, and record-breaking visitor numbers. He highlights new hotel developments, culinary festivals, and a 40 percent repeat visitation rate that makes the Caymans an easy sell. For more information, visit www.visitcaymanislands.com/traveldeals.
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
Stephanie McDonald, trade training and development manager for Celestyal Cruises, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about the line’s destination-focused approach, with longer port times, fewer sea days and access to lesser-known stops in Greece, Italy, Croatia and Montenegro. McDonald explains how Celestyal supports advisors with training modules, webinars, customized excursion planning and a growing North American sales team. For more information, visit www.celestyal.com.
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about record-breaking visitor numbers, extended season strategies like Culinary Month, and sustainable tourism practices. He outlines new investments including Nobu, Nikki Beach and Moon Gate resorts, plus cruise homeporting and seamless airport arrival technology. James also previews the country’s festival calendar and the Black Pineapple Awards for top-selling travel advisors. For more information, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com.
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Sharon Law, shore excursion manager for Celestyal Journey, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about how the cruise line’s midsize ships allow access to hidden gems in Greece, Italy, Croatia and Montenegro. Laure outlines five distinct itineraries, including the new Heavenly itinerary, and highlights immersive excursions such as olive oil tastings, cooking classes and hands-on mosaic workshops. She also explains how excursions can be customized for groups and made accessible for travelers with mobility challenges. For more information, visit www.celestyal.com.
Sunday Jun 15, 2025
Sunday Jun 15, 2025
Jameel Rochester, director; Shantell Richardson, deputy director; and the Hon. Cardigan Connor, minister of tourism, health and sports for Anguilla, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about why Anguilla is gaining momentum with the travel trade. They outline record-breaking visitor growth, new festival-driven marketing initiatives, and how Anguilla’s luxury resorts, locally owned inns and diverse experiences—from sports tourism to gastronomy—make it a year-round sell. For more information, visit www.ivisitanguilla.com.
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the increased interest in river cruising, evolving guest preferences and authentic cultural experiences in Colombia and beyond. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Thursday Jun 05, 2025
Dean Sivley, president of Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his company, with famous owner Warren Buffet, is seeking to become a major played in the travel industry market. Later this year Berkshire Hathaway will debut a series of revolutionary travel insurance products that will make it a viable of option for your travel clients. For more information, visit www.bhtp.com.
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Jodi Bainter, vice president of domestic leisure sales for Disney Destinations, talks with Jennifer Jones of Insider Travel Report about limited time offers and room specials celebrating Disneyland’s 70th anniversary through summer 2026. Bainter highlights new shows, character encounters, and the $100 per day anniversary ticket Offer. She also invites travel advisors to visit the Disney Appreciation Station June 6–8. For more information, visit www.disneytravelagents.com or www.disneyland.com.
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Melinda Fortunato, owner of Best Travel in Washington, D.C., talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her experience as an ASTA Verified Travel Advisor. Fortunato, a member of ASTA’s board, describes the VTA program, what it includes, and why she recommends that every ASTA advisor become a VTA. For more information, click on ASTA Verified Travel Advisor or visit www.verivacation.com.
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Antonio Bignoni, chief operating officer for the Serras Collection, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the Serras Barcelona, a hideaway boutique hotel close to the port and the city’s top attractions. With a rooftop bar and restaurant, and a signature main restaurant, plus sumptuous accommodations, Serra Barcelona ticks all the boxes for a luxury stay. Bonus point: Picasso once had his studio in the same building as the hotel. For more information, visit https://serrasbarcelona.com/es.
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Robin Lawther, vice president of Expedia TAAP (Travel Agent Affiliate Program), talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his dedicated unit helps all travel advisors with bookable and commissionable hotel content (the same as Expedia’s) as well as new technology and other products designed to boost profits. We interviewed Lawther after Expedia TAAP released a survey showing travel advisors are a growing and viable distribution channel. For more information, visit www.expediataap.com.
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Nga Ding, sustainability manager for Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam, talks with Jennifer Lutz of Insider Travel Report about how the resort integrates environmental stewardship across departments, engaging guests with eco-education, local partnerships and 16 hands-on sustainability experiences. Ding explains how the property tracks and audits its impact, funds conservation, and supports guest wellness through organic food and mindful living. For more information, visit www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/ninh-van-bay.
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Sandra Jimenez, general manager of Almanac Barcelona, talks with James Shillinglaw about her wonderful boutique property in the heart of the city. The hotel features comfortable, spacious and modern rooms; Varens, a signature plant-forward restaurant; and the Azimuth rooftop bar, complete with a small pool, overlooking Gaudi’s famed La Sagreda Familia. For more information, visit www.almanachotels.com/barcelona.
Friday May 30, 2025
Friday May 30, 2025
What do luxury river cruises offer that sets them apart today? What kind innovative itineraries and destinations are they offering? What dining options do they need to have? What tours and excursions do they need to offer. This panel examines how luxury river cruising has changed and what makes it different. Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report moderates this panel of experts, including Kelly Ross, Azamara; Jason Douglas Harris, Silversea and Matthew Zion, AmaWaterways.