The Insider Travel Report Podcast

What the Legendary Geoffrey Kent Is Up to at A&K Today

Geoffrey Kent, chairman emeritus for Abercrombie & Kent, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at A&K’s 100 Club event for top travel advisors in Chicago about his travel projects today, including a series of Inspiring Expeditions and Private Jet trips that he will host himself. Most of all, Kent shows how he’s still enthusiastic about travel today and enthusiastic about new destinations around the world. For more information, visit www.abercrombiekent.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 MSC Will Make Its Newest Big Ship Feel Smaller

Koreen McNutt, senior vice president and commercial sales officer for MSC Cruises, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the upcoming launch of MSC World America in Miami in 2025. McNutt  details how the ship’s seven districts will give the large ship the flow of a mid-sized ship, as well as the ability to cater to various guest demographics, including families. McNutt also covers new itineraries, an open future booking program that protects the original travel advisor, and the construction of MSC's new terminal in Port Miami. For more information, visit www.MSCBook.com or www.MSCCruisesUSA.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 Secret to Explora Journeys' Rapid Success

Chris Austin, chief sales officer of Explorer Journeys, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how his nine-month-old brand feels like a legacy cruise line that has been around for a lot longer. Austin attributes this success to hard work, a vision from the owners, the Aponte family, and listening to guest feedback to continuously improve. For more information and a booking suite for travel advisors, 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.

Coming Home to the Palace in Lausanne

Isabelle Von Berg, general manager of Lausanne Palace, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her classic luxury hotel in Lausanne, Switzerland, overlooking Lac Leman (Lake Geneva). With exquisite accommodations, great dining options, a large spa and even its own vineyard, Lausanne Palace continues to shine. Plus Von Berg is a native of Lausanne and went to school at the famed EHL (Ecole Hoteliers Lausanne) in the city, so after a long hospitality career she has come home. For more information, visit www.lausanne-palace.ch.

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 to Eat and Drink on the New Sun Princess

Peter Priestly, food & beverage director onboard the new Sun Princess details the myriad dining options available on the ship,, including some new concepts to go along with Princess favorites. Priestly also details the many bar and lounge options, each with its own specially created cocktail. For more information, visit www.princess.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 to Stay in a Castle with a Two-Star Michelin Restaurant

Joerg Stricker, general manager of Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his luxury hotel located just outside Cologne. The property has all the elegant trappings of a baroque castle, but also a posh dining experience at Vendome. For more information, visit www.althoffcollection.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 Makeover of Celestyal Cruises

Chris Theophilides, president of Celestyal Cruises, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report at last week’s Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami about his Greece and Eastern Mediterranean specialist cruise line’s complete transformation. Celestyal now has two newly revamped ships, new itineraries and a strategy to offer cruises all year long, including sailings in the Arabian Gulf. For more information, visit www.celestyal.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 to Stay to See King Ludwig’s Castles in Bavaria

Razvan Kefer, general manager of Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa, part of the Althoff Hotel Group, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about why his hotel is simply the best for those wanting to see King Ludwig’s famous castles, including the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein. The lakeside property, which is spread across five buildings, has comfortable accommodations, a full spa and great dining options. For more information, visit www.ameroncollection.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 to See and What to Do Onboard the New Sun Princess

Corinne Steel, cruise director for Sun Princess, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about the entertainment and activities guests can find onboard the newest ship in the Princess fleet. From an acrobatic circus-like show in the signature Dome to full production shows in the Princess Arena, there’s something for everyone on Sun Princess, plus tons of activities and games to experience. For more information, visit www.princess.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.

Get a Captain’s View of the New Sun Princess

Craig Street, captain of Sun Princess, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his brand new “Love Boat,” currently sailing in the Mediterranean. Capt. Street focuses on the ship’s sustainability as the first Princess ship to run on liquefied national gas (LNG). He also reveals his favorite dining venues and other highlights that make this ship the biggest and best yet in the Princess fleet. For more information, visit www.princess.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 Althoff Collection’s Luxury Lakeside Retreat in Bavaria

Vincent Ludwig, general manager of Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his luxury resort in Bavaria, located on the Lake Tegernsee just an hour from Munich. Ludwig details the sumptuous accommodations, large spa, exquisite dining options and top service that his property delivers to guests. For more information, visit www.althoffcollection.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.  

How Holland America Focuses on Longer Itineraries with Certified Fresh Fish

Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report at last week’s Seatrade Cruise Global, detailing the premium line's consumer-led approach to longer voyages and onboard experiences, including entertainment and food tailored to the regions visited. Antorcha explains how the fresh fish served is delivered from ocean to table in less than 48 hours, and is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.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 Norwegian Is Betting Big on the Future of Cruising

Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report at last week’s Seatrade Cruise Global about why NCLH just contracted for eight new ships across its three brands—Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas. Sommer provides an update on where his company is today as the cruise industry continues its resurgence. For more information, visit www.nclhltd.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 Althoff Collection of Luxury Hotels

Frank Marrenbach, CEO of Althoff Collection, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his group of luxury hotels located mostly in Germany, but with outposts in London and St. Tropez. These high-end properties feature excellent cuisine, relaxing spas, wonderful service and great locations, making them great options for your luxury clients. For more information, visit www.althoffhotels.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 Better Sell the New Sun Princess

Carmen Roig, vice president of sales for Princess Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about her premium cruise line’s newest and largest ship. From its revolutionary Sphere-design midships to its Dome amphitheater on the top deck near the bow, Sun Princess delivers a very different kind of Princess experience to guests, including great dining options and even a magic show, Spellbound by Magic Castle. 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.

How Internova Is Making Bookings Easier for New Travel Advisors

Lindsay Pearlman, senior vice president at Travel Leaders Network (TLN), and Seth Burton, vice president of distribution and advisor workflow for Internova, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about a new graphical booking tool called Internova SNAP designed for independent travel advisors. SNAP Integrates with Saber Red Launchpad and aims to simplify booking processes, increase efficiency and generate additional revenues for advisors. For more information, visit www.travelleadersnetwork.com or www.internova.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 Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe Caters to Romance and Family Fun

Maricarmen Gutierrez, director of sales for Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about her upscale, all-inclusive hotel, with 540 ocean-facing rooms, an enclave area with exclusive perks, all-inclusive dining options, spa, gym, entertainment, and wedding facilities. For more information, email Maricarmen.Gutierrez@Hilton.com or visit www.Hilton.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.

Who’s Responsible for MSC Cruises' Award-Winning Kids Program

Matteo Mancini, MSC Cruises' senior manager for kids and family entertainment, discusses with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report his transition from child television star to cruise industry executive. On his award-winning web series "Cabin 12006," real kids and social media stars interact, creating memorable moments that extend beyond the cruise itself. Mancini embodies MSC's focus on family vacations, and his programs keep kids and teens entertained at no extra charge, making the cruise line even more appealing for multi-generational travel. For more information, visit www.msccruisesusa.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 Roadshows Panel: What Top Destinations Are the Best for Honeymooners & Destination Weddings?

From islands to top beach resorts, many destinations cater to honeymooner and help create the perfect romantic locations. These top destination officials tell you why they have the right place for the right couple. Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report moderates a panel that includes: Milijana Borojević, director of partner marketing & sales development-USA & Canada for Korcula Tourist Board (Visit Korcula); Aremi Almada, promotion coordinator for Los Cabos Tourism (Visit Los Cabos) and Vinincia Strachan, general manager-romance for the  Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. This panel was part of the Virtual Roadshows Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, held March 25-28, 2024. You can still see all the content from that show by registering at www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-dwh-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.

Why Expedia Is Increasing Its Investment in Travel Advisors Now

Robin Lawther, vice president of Expedia TAAP, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Expedia's awareness of the trend for travelers to use travel advisors. The result has been an increased investment by Expedia in travel advisors, aiming for a mutually beneficial partnership, offering competitive commissions, incentives and training programs. Lawther highlights the program's evolution, user-friendly interface and dedicated support, emphasizing TAAP's commitment to help advisors as a separate entity from Expedia.com. For more information, visit www.ExpediaTAAP.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 Holland America Takes Guests on Longer Voyages with Fresher Fish

Rob Coleman, vice president of sales for Holland America Line, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the cruise line's legendary voyages, emphasizing unique routes, such as a full Mediterranean sailing from New York and a pole-to-pole world cruise, with fresh fish to table in 48 hours or less. Coleman also discusses the commissions to be made with group sales through Holland America's Group Advantage program. For more information, visit www.HollandAmerica.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 Roadshow Panel: Choosing the Right Resort for a Great Honeymoon or Destination Wedding (Part II)

What’s the perfect resort for your honeymooner or destination wedding clients? This panel of top resort executives give you all the answers, from the perfect suite to the most amazing romantic settings, from private dinners on the beach to a tub of rose pedals. The panel, moderated by Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report, includes: Andrea Hilbert, senior manager training and travel advisor onboarding for Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection; Tia Rooney, business development and weddings manager for Couples Resorts; Gabrielle Bededetto, business development manager for Majestic Resorts; and Hugo Arturo Aguilera De Alba, director of sales for Riu Hotels and Resorts. This panel was part of the Virtual Roadshows Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, held March 25-28, 2024. You can still see all the content from that show by registering at www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-dwh-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.

Virtual Roadshow Panel:Choosing the Right Resort for a Great Honeymoon or Destination Wedding Part I

What’s the perfect resort for your honeymooner of destination wedding clients? This panel of top resort executives give you all the answers, from the perfect suite to the most amazing romantic settings, from private dinners on the beach to a tub of rose pedals. This panel, moderated by James Shillinglaw, editor in chief of Insider Travel Report, features Rubén Velázquez Robles, business development manager-U.S. and Canada for Ocean by H10 Hotels; Gilberto Machain, director of weddings for Karisma Hotels & Resorts; and Miguelina Martinez, weddings and groups convention manager at Princess Hotels & Resorts. This panel was part of the Virtual Roadshows Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, held March 25-28, 2024. You can still see all the content from that show by registering at www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-dwh-vrs.

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.  

A River Cruise on Emerald Dawn Through Holland & Belgium

Manny Celdran, senior director of field sales for Scenic Group, talks with James Shillinglaw on a post-ASTA River Cruise Expo river cruise aboard Emerald Dawn through Holland and Belgium. Celdran talks about the differences between Emerald and Scenic, where Emerald is positioned in the market, and where the river cruise line goes in Europe, as well as the different kinds of cruise experiences offered by Scenic Group. For more information, visit www.emeraldcruises.com and www.scenicusa.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.

Meet ASTA’s River Cruise Travel Advisor of the Year

Diane Frisch, owner of Diane Frisch Destinations, a member of Nexion, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s ASTA River Cruise Expo, where she was named ASTA River Cruise Travel Advisor of the Year. Frisch was selected from a long list of nominees based on her river cruise sales, her future bookings and her reputation as a river cruise specialist. She reveals that the ASTA River Cruise Expo, now in its third year, has had a lot to do with her success. For more information, visit www.dfdestinations.com, www.nexion.com and www.astarivercruiseexpo.com/2025.

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 Future Holds for AmaWaterways on the Rivers of the World

Kristin Karst. executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how many ships the luxury river cruise line has right now, where it’s planning to cruise in 2024 and what specialty cruises it will offer. Karst also makes some news in this interview by saying AmaWaterways will briefly postpone the start of its eagerly awaited river cruises in Colombia until January 2025. She also says L Catterton, AmaWaterways’ new investor, is fully supporting the river cruise line’s management team and future strategy, and reveals even more new programs for travel advisors For more information, visit www.amawaterways.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 Tauck Has Planned for the Rivers of Europe

Steve Spivak, vice president-global sales and reservations for Tauck, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s ASTA River Cruise Expo about what the famed upscale tour operator is offering with its European river cruise fleet. Spivak explains why a Tauck river cruise is different because of the company’s tour expertise. For more information, visit www.tauck.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 This Fledgling Tour Operator Delivers What Travelers Crave

Sasha VanDenBosch and Ashley Crane, founders of Crave Travel, talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how their new company delivers immersive small group tours to-minded individuals passionate about culinary adventure around the world. They describe how their tours not only discover culinary delights but also create a sense of community with guests. For more information, visit www.cravetravel.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.

How Riverside Luxury Cruises Will Sail the Rivers of Europe in 2024

Jen Halboth, CEO-North America for Riverside Luxury Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s ASTA River Cruise Expo about how her river cruise line gives you a new luxury option for your clients on the rivers of Europe. Riverside, which two years ago bought Crystal River Cruises’ ships, is now featuring three vessels—Riverside Mozart, Ravel and the newly rechristened Debussy—sailing the Rhine, Rhone, Danube and other rivers. For more information, visit www.riverside-cruises.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 Approach Guides Offers a New “Approach” to Travel Marketing

Jennifer and David Raezer, co-founders of Approach Guides, talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about their innovative company, which partners with top travel suppliers and agency groups to give you a powerful tool to market travel products and services. In the last year alone, Approach Guides has signed up multiple cruise lines, tour operator, host agencies and more to give them access to their innovative online product. For more information, visit www.approachguides.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 Kenya Airways is Expanding JFK-Nairobi Service

Stephen Ngamau, regional manager-Americas and West Africa for Kenya Airways, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the airline's expansion plans, which include increased flights from New York City, as well as the airline’s history, mission, customer service ethos (which they call "customer obsession") and their partnership with Delta Air Lines. For more information, call 866-536-9224 or visit www.Kenya-Airways.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 Riviera River Cruises Is Appealing to the U.S. Market

Marilyn Conroy, senior vice president-sales and marketing for Riviera River Cruises talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at last month’s ASTA River Cruise Expo about how her company, which previously targeted the U.K. market, is now refocused on the U.S. market, offering brand new ships at value fares on the rivers of Europe. Riviera also has plans to grow its fleet in the next few years. For more information, visit www.rivierarivercruises.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 Amadeus Has Planned for the Rivers of Europe This Summer

Marcus Leskovar, executive vice president of Amadeus River Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at the ASTA River Cruise Expo last month about his Austrian-owned river cruise line, which has been plying the rivers of Europe with luxury ships since 1997. Now Amadeus is about to launch one of the most innovative river ships ever, one that runs on electric battery power, making it the ultimate sustainable vessel. For more information, visit www.amadeus-rivercruises.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 Why Kenya is Now a Year-Round Destination

Betty Ichan, director of market development for the Kenya Tourism Board, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Kenya's year-round appeal, diverse experiences beyond safari, recovery from COVID-19 and visitor demographics. Ichan also details how to get there, including Kenya Airways and cruise ships, upcoming events, sustainability efforts, and resources for travel advisors to learn more about promoting Kenya. For more information, email Bichan@KTB.GO.KE or Zablon@KTB.GO.KE, or visit www.MagicalKenyaTravelSpecialist.com and www.MagicalKenya.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 Beaumier Hotel Group Delivers Luxury in France, Switzerland and Spain

Eric Darde, CEO of Beaumier, a hotel group with premium and luxury properties in France, Switzerland and Spain, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about its latest hotel openings and renovations, emphasizing its focus on unique locations, heritage architecture and wellness experiences. Darde also highlights Beaumier's commitment to nature and local culture. For more information, email sales@beaumier.com or visit www.beaumier.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 New at Avalon Waterways—a New Ship on the Douro and More

Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam about Avalon’s new ship on the Douro, innovative itineraries in Europe and her company’s commitment to travel advisors. Hoffee reveals the latest news  about Avalon on the rivers of Europe and more. For more information, visit www.avalonwaterways.com or www.globusfamilypartner.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 AlUla's 200,000 Years of Art and Culture in Saudi Arabia

Philip Jones, chief tourism officer for the Royal Commission for AlUla, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about the authenticity and uniqueness of AlUla, and discusses the development of tourism there, upcoming luxury hotels and an emphasis on sustainability. Jones also introduces a new marketing campaign dubbed "Forever Revitalizing." For more information, visit www.ExperienceALULA.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 Uniworld Is Adding More Luxury Ships on the Rivers of Europe

Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam earlier this month. Bettridge describes her luxury line’s two new ships, S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elizabeth, both originally built for Crystal river ships and now leased from Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as a newly constructed river ship, S.S. Emilie, due out in 2026. For more information, visit www.uniworld.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 Scenic Group Is Up to in River Cruising Today

Ken Muskat, managing director of Scenic Group U.S.A., talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at this year’s ASTA River Cruise Expo about what his two brands, Scenic and Emerald, are doing on the rivers of Europe and the rest of the world. Muskat is now a year on the job of his multi-brand ocean and river cruise company, which delivers ultra-luxury and high-premium cruise experiences. For more information, visit www.scenicusa.com and www.emeraldcruises.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 It’s Like to Be 20 Years Under Sail with Sea Cloud Cruises

Bosun Mate Martin from Sea Cloud Spirit talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what it’s been like to serve on a sailing yacht for more than 20 years on all three of Sea Cloud Cruises’ ships. Throughout his cruise career, Martin has only served with Sea Cloud because of his love of the line’s fully rigged sailing ships and the destinations they visit. For more information, visit www.seacloud.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 ASTA Has Created with Its Highly Successful River Cruise Expo

Zane Kerby, ASTA president and CEO, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about the third edition of the ASTA River Cruise Expo, held this year in Amsterdam with 12 ships and more than 1,300 attendees. Kerby describes how ASTA developed this river cruise event, which has resonated with so many of ASTA’s members eager to find out about river cruising and sell more. For next year’s event in Vienna (which is already sold out, though ASTA has a waitlist and may add more river ships), visit www.astarivercruiseexpo.org/2025. For more information on ASTA, visit www.asta.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.

Discover the History of Sea Cloud, Florida’s Railroads and Mar-a-Lago

Les Standiford, a writer and lecturer who spoke onboard a recent Sea Cloud Spirit cruise, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, about his many books that make up a virtual history of Florida tourism. Those books include one devoted to Henry Flagler and the building of Florida’s railroads and historic hotels (which proved crucial to tourism to the state). Standiford, who is the founding director of the Florida International University Creative Writing Program, also talks about his book examining the history of Palm Beach and Mar-a-Lago, a villa originally built by the Post fortune heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, who also built the first Sea Cloud sailing ship still in use today. For more information, visit www.seacloud.com or find Standiford’s books on www.amazon.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 Your Clients Can Experience Onboard Sea Cloud Spirit

Nicole Kania, cruise director for Sea Cloud Spirit, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about all the activities, excursions and entertainment that guests can experience when onboard a real, three-masted sailing ship. From the actual setting of the sails to fascinating onboard lectures, from games and entertainment, often provided by the crew, from excursions ashore to boat trips around the ship, Kania orchestrates it all to provide a unique cruise experience. For more information, visit www.seacloud.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 You Should Write Congress Now About American Airlines

Zane Kerby, president and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about why ASTA just launched a campaign to get travel advisors and their clients to write letters to their congressmen objecting the American Airlines’ planned change to its frequent-flyer plan that would adversely impact travel agencies. Under those changes, AA passengers would not get their AAdvantage points if they don’t book through an AA “preferred” travel agency, as approved by American. For more information, visit www.savemymiles.com or www.asta.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.

Who Oversees the Food and the Rooms on Sea Cloud Spirit

Elias Stamatopoulos, hotel manager for Sea Cloud Spirit, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the accommodations, dining and service aboard this luxury sailing ship. With surprisingly large staterooms and suites, all opulently decorated, and a menu that has great options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sea Cloud delivers a true luxury experience under sail. For more information, visit www.seacloud.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 Who’s at the Helm of Sea Cloud Spirit:

Captain Heiner Eilers, skipper of the Sea Cloud Spirit, talks to James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what it’s like to oversee a fully rigged luxury cruise sailing ship under sail. Captain Eilers talks about the experience guests get, the training he had to learn the “ropes,” and why he enjoys Sea Cloud Spirit more than any other cruise ship. For more information, visit www.seacloud.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 Bahamas Is Growing the Cruise Market and More

Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and tourism minister for the Bahamas, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the latest tourism numbers, infrastructure improvements and how the destination is working to develop the cruise market, from a larger port complex in Nassau to new private island and beach destinations being launched in partnership with individual cruise lines. Cooper is interviewed onboard Sea Cloud Cruises’ Sea Cloud Spirit, one of the newest cruise lines to sail in the Bahamas, stopping at Eleuthera and the Exumas. For more information, visit www.bahamas.com or www.seacloud.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 Big Tall Ships of Sea Cloud

Kevin Smith, vice president of sales for Sea Cloud Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how you can better sell the amazing experience of luxury cruising on a ship under full sail. Interviewed aboard the almost brand new Sea Cloud Spirit (it was launched in 2021), Smith details the accommodations, the dining, the amenities, the itineraries of tall ship sailing, a unique form of cruising that just may appeal to your high-end clients eager for something completely different. For more information, visit www.seacloud.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 Luxurious Life Under Sail with Sea Cloud

Mirell Reyes, president of Sea Cloud Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her unique luxury cruise line, which operates three tall ships—the historic Sea Cloud, Sea Cloud II and the nearly brand new Sea Cloud Spirit. Interviewed aboard Sea Cloud Spirit, Reyes describes the ships, the accommodations, the dining. the service and the varied itineraries around the world, but mostly the sheer romance of cruising under full sail. For more information, visit www.seacloud.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 Makes Malta a Year-Round Destination

Michelle Buttigieg, Malta Tourism Authority’s representative for North America, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about Malta as a year-round destination rich in history, culture, and diverse activities. Buttigieg highlights Malta's appeal to various demographics, its accessibility via major European hubs, its booming tourism numbers, new hotel developments, contemporary art scene, film tourism, wine industry, yachting, and a readiness to assist travel advisors. For more information, visit www.VisitMalta.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.