The Insider Travel Report Podcast

Nassau’s Historic Jewel British Colonial Hotel Returns to Glory

Dan McDermott, general manager of the British Colonial Hotel in the heart of Nassau in the Bahamas, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his newly reopened, completely renovated property. The historic hotel, formerly affiliated with Hilton, has received a refurbishment that includes its spectacular lobby, expansive pool area, and all rooms and suites. British Colonial is once again the palace to stay in the town of Nassau. For more information, visit www.britishcolonial.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.

Conrad Opens as the Newest Luxury Resort in Orlando

Sean McCarren, general manager of the Conrad Orlando, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his brand new luxury hotel located in an the upscale Evermore development just minutes from Walt Disney World (you can even see the Disney fireworks). With a wide selection of restaurants, a large spa, large modern rooms, a pool and even a lagoon, the stylish Conrad Orlando is the next great luxury property where your family clients can stay for a great vacation. For more information, visit www.conradorlando.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 Boutique SOHO House Resort in Canoaun

Batu Erem, general manager of SOHO House Canouan, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his laid-back resort tucked away on this off-the-beaten-path island in the Grenadines. While most SOHO House properties are private clubs, this resort is open to the public as the smaller sister property of Mandarin Oriental Canouan (they have common ownership). For more information, visit www.sohohouse.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 Behind the Fine Dining at Mandarin Oriental Canouan

Gerardo Say, executive chef at the Mandarin Oriental Canouan, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the cuisine he has created for this exclusive, off-the-beaten-path luxury resort in the Grenadines. Top notch dining venues at this ultimate hideaway include the high-end Tides Bar + Grill, Asianne and Lagoon Café, among others. For more information, visit www.canouan.co or www.mandarinoriental.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.

 

Regent Seven Seas’ New Chief Sales Officer Talks Ships, Itineraries & Tools

Steve Odell, the new chief sales officer at Regent Seven Seas Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his exciting return to the luxury cruise line along with the newest addition to the World’s Most Luxurious Feet, new immersive itineraries that travel advisors can book for their clients, and how Regent Seven Seas is the best partner for luxury travel advisors. For more information, visit www.rssc.com/agent, www.rssc.com/regent-elevate and www.rssc.com/travel-advisor-specials.

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.

Everything Your Clients Can Do at the Mandarin Oriental Canouan

Hemal Jain, general manager of the Mandarin Oriental Canouan, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the range of activities guests can engage in at his off-the-beaten path luxury resort on this small island in the Grenadines. In the second part of this interview, Jain describes the spectacular golf course, tennis courts, archery, and kids club activities available at this massive property. He also details the waterspouts paddle board, sailing and more, and great hikes around the resort, including one to the top of the highest mountain on the island for spectacular views. For more information, visit www.canouan.co or www.mandarinoriental.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 Quiet Luxury of Mandarin Oriental Canouan Island

Hemal Jain, general manager of the Mandarin Oriental Canouan, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his off-the-beaten path luxury resort on this small island in the Grenadines. In the first part of this interview, Jain describes the sumptuous and very large accommodations, the dining experiences, the Mandarin spa and more, all set on a massive property with less than 50 rooms. For more information, visit www.canouan.co or www.mandarinoriental.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 Make the Most of a Day in Kyoto with InsideJapan

Brett Plotz, field operations team leader for InsideJapan, a part of Inside Travel Group, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how best to explore Kyoto in a day, starting with the efficiency of the bullet train between Tokyo and Kyoto. Landmarks visited include Nanzenji Temple, one of the most celebrated and oldest Buddhist temples, the "pure water" Kiyomizu Temple with its stage over panoramic views, and Sanjusangendo for its collection of 1,001 statues of Kannon. Plotz also discusses the exclusive Japanese menu items at McDonald's, not available anywhere else in the world. For more information, visit www.InsideJapanTours.com or www.InsideTravelGroup.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 Make the Most of a Day in Tokyo with Inside Japan

Brett Plotz, field operations team leader for InsideJapan, a part of Inside Travel Group, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about how best to explore Tokyo in a day, starting with the Imperial Palace, the famous Tokyo fish market, and Senso-ji Temple before lunch. Plotz also details the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, the Shibuya Crossing, and Shinjuku's giant 3D cat billboard and cat cafes. For more information, visit www.InsideJapanTours.com and www.InsideTravelGroup.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 Hot to Eat and Where to Party in New York City

George Karavias, CEO and founder of Dream Hospitality Group, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his company, which develops cutting edge restaurants and nightclubs catering to the celebrity set. If you want to recommend a good restaurant for your clients, try Dream’s Panda Harlem, Pappas New York and other dining outlets. If you clients want to dance or part the night away, try Harbor NYC, Musica NYC and more. Karavias has his pulse on New York’s dining and nightlife. For more information, visit www.dreamhospitlitygroup.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.

Learn to Love the Color Brown at Luxury Boutique Brown Hotels

Dimitri Arida, vice president of marketing for Brown Hotels, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about her unique collection of hotels and resorts in Greece, Cyprus, Croatia and Israel. Arida describes these high-end boutique properties set in spectacular islands and coastlines and catering to upscale clients. For more information, visit www.brownhotels.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 Up for Tourism to Germany in 2024?

Ricarda Lindner, regional manager-the Americas for the German National Tourist Office, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the outlook for travel to Germany in 2024. Lindner reviews strong tourism numbers for Germany in 2023, talks about the themes for tourism campaigns for 2024, recommends the best times to travel to the country, and takes a look at the growth of airlift and the stabilization of hotel prices this year. For more information, visit www.germany.travel.

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

Rediscover the Oldest and Arguably Most Famous Hotel in New York

Willis Loughhead, general manager The Algonquin Hotel in midtown Manhattan, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the history of this famed property, now part of Marriott’s Autography Collection, which made its debut in 1902. The hotel also is famed for being the host of the Algonquin Roundtable, a regular gathering of writers, poets, playwrights and other artists in the 1920s and 1930s (and the roundtable still exists today). Loughhead talks about the accommodations, public rooms, programming that reflects the hotel’s heritage—and the hotel cat! For more information, visit www.algonquinhotel.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 Keio Plaza Hotel's Luxury Tokyo Experience

Yuki Ishihara, marketing manager for the Keio Plaza Hotel in Tokyo, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about  the hotel's history, amenities  and prime location in Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku district.  Ishihara highlights the various room types, 10 dining options, and unique services like cultural tours and complimentary bus service to Tokyo Disneyland Resort. For more information, call 800-222-5346, email reservation@KeioPlazaTokyo.com or visit www.KeioPlaza.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 History Meets Hollywood on a Walking Tour of Cardiff

Sarah of Sarah's Wales Walking Tours talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about how Cardiff is a hub for film and TV production, particularly Doctor Who and Sherlock Holmes. Salter discusses various filming locations, including Cardiff Bay and the Parliament building, and recommends tourist attractions like Cardiff Castle and Victorian arcades. For more information, visit www.SarahsWales.co.uk.

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

Discover the LGBTQ+ Market at PROUD Experiences in LA This June

Simon Mayle, event director for PROUD Experiences, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about this crucial travel conference focused on the lucrative LGBTQ) market, taking place in Los Angeles at the Fairmont Century Plaza on June 3-5. Now in its fifth year, PROUD Experiences has become the essential event to attend for those interested in learning about the LGBTQ+ travel market and selling to the community. For more information, visit www.PROUDExperiences.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.

Stay at an Art Gallery Hotel in a Windmill in the Smallest City in the U.K.

Emma Bowen, general manager of the Twr Y Felin Hotel in St. Davids, Wales, the smallest city in the U.K., talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about the unique blend of contemporary and Welsh culture at her property, a former windmill transformed into Wales' first contemporary art hotel. Bowen highlights the history of the windmill, its renovation, the incorporation of more than 250 commissioned artworks reflecting the local landscape, as well as its proximity to a sixth-century cathedral, and the 186-mile coastal hiking trails of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. For more information, visit www.twryfelinhotel.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 What Makes Welsh Whiskey So Different

Chris Cuen, a tour guide at Penderyn Whiskey Distillery in Northern Wales, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about the modern still technology that makes Welsh whiskey unique. Cuen explains the Faraday still's significance and invites tourists, particularly Americans, to experience the distinctive whiskey-making process in Northern Wales. For more information, visit www.penderyn.wales.

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 Eventi Remains a Hip New York Boutique Offering Great Stays

Daniel Entenberg, general manager of the Eventi, a Kimpton Hotel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how his New York City property in Chelsea has evolved 14 years after it opened. With spacious rooms and suites, two restaurants, a marquee bar and even a speakeasy, the Eventi continues to provide all the comforts and amenities that guests desire. For more information, visit www.hoteleventi.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 Doha on Your Qatar Stopover

Saleh Bataineh, general manager of Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his luxury hotel located on the water in Doha. Bataineh details the rooms, suites, spa and restaurants, but also how your clients can best enjoy Qatar has to offer on a one-, two-, or three-night stopover experience developed by Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways (visit www.qatartourism.com or www.qatarairways.com. For more information on the hotel, click on Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

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.

Journey Into the Depths for a Welsh Coal Mine Experience

Tony Fiedler, a former coal miner turned tour guide at the Welsh Coal Mining Experience in Rhondda, Southern Wales, talks with Olivia Liveng of Insider Travel Report about the profound history of mining and his personal connections to the mining industry. Fiedler highlights the significance and impact of mining on the local community and its role in shaping the region's history. For more information, visit the Welsh Coal Mining Experience.

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 an Resort Oasis on the Shores of the Persian Gulf in Qatar

Will Solas of Our Habitas Raz Abrouk talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about this brand new desert oasis resort in Qatar located just over an hour from Doha, Part of Mexican resort chain Our Habitas, Raz Abrouk offers 42 villas designed like Bedouin tents overlooking the sea and comes complete with a spa and fine dining. It’s the perfect escape from metropolitan Doha. For more information, visit www.ourhabitas.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 Royal Mint in Wales Isn’t Just About Coins

Paul Brandwood, business development manager for the Royal Mint Experience in Southern Wales, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about the Royal Mint’s behind-the-scenes tours of coin production for over 80 countries, including unique items like Olympic medals. Brentwood also shares details about the VIP tour, offering exclusive access to the facility's inner workings, including its gold vault. For more information, visit www.royalmint.com/the-royal-mint-experience.

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 Nocturne Luxury Villas Are a Big Sale for Travel Advisors

Scott Wiseman, CEO of Nocturne Luxury Villas, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about his collection of high-end villa rental brands catering to high net worth clients and booked through travel advisors at 10-15 percent commission. 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.

Discover Doha’s Massive New Meryal Waterpark

Mohammed Sheik of Meryal Waterpark talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about this major new destination theme park in Qatar. With the interesting theme of the discovery of oil in Qatar, Meryal features amazing waterslides, one that looks like an oil derrick, and other attractions that promise fun for the whole family. For more information, visit www.meryalwaterpark.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 Jamaica Tourism Keeps Visitors Coming Back

Donovan White, director of tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about travel advisories, record-breaking visitor numbers, new hotel developments, increased airlift and much more. For more information, visit www.www.VisitJamaica.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 Explore the Many Attractions and Charms of Qatar

Phil Dickinson, leading international markets development and MICE for Visit Qatar, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on a tour of this thoroughly modern and fascinating destination. Dickinson reviews many of Doha’s attractions, including the massive new Meryal Waterpark, major luxury shopping malls, the famed Souq, multiple museums, top dining and stadiums from the World Cup in 2022. For more information, visit www.visitqatar.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: How Top Destinations Around the World Sell Adventure Travel

These top destinations tell you about the adventure travel opportunities they have that travel advisors can sell. They detail the places, the kinds of adventure travel experiences and how advisors can better understand what they have to offer. And they provide the right information you need to sell active and adventure travel. Moderated by Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report, panelists include Mette Eilskov Hansen, project manager-leisure tourism for VisitDenmark (www.VisitDenmark.com), and Milijana Borojevic managing director of the Korcula Tourist Board (www.VisitKorcula.eu). For more information, visit www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-adventure-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.

Explore London's Abandoned Underground Stations with Hidden London

Ollie Burton, head of Hidden London at the London Transport Museum, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about the experiences offered by Hidden London tours, which showcases dis-used sections of the London Tube system. Burton leads a tour of Charing Cross Station and offers insights into film locations and details on how to book tours. For more information, visit www.ltmuseum.co.uk/hidden-london.

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: Discover the New Way to Sell Polar Expedition Cruise for 2024

Top polar expedition cruise executives tell you what to book for your clients this year and beyond. They detail the products they offer in Antarctica and the Arctic, the trends in polar expedition cruising and how itineraries are changing to suit the need of the new polar explorer. Moderated by Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report, panelists include Chris Hanna, national accounts & business development manager-North America for Quark Expeditions (www.QuarkExpeditions.com), and Toto Vermue, sales account manager for Oceanwide Expeditions (www.Oceanwide-Expeditions.com).  For more information, visit https://www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-adventure-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 the Picturesque Village of Portmeirion in Wales

Amanda Whitehead, tour guide and Portmeirion expert, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about the unique history of Portmeirion, a village in North Wales designed by architect Cliff Williams in the 1920s to blend architecture with nature. Whitehead discusses the village's Italianate architecture, quirky English architectural features, and its continuing fame as the filming location for "The Prisoner" TV series. For more information, visit www.Portmeirion.com or www.VisitWales.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: Going Beyond Polar to Sell Expedition Cruises in 2024

Top expedition cruise lines are now offering special itineraries around the world well beyond the Arctic and Antarctica. We look at how these companies are now selling Alaska, Galapagos, Pacific islands, Asia, Africa and off-the-beaten path destinations in Europe that provide new opportunities for exploring the exotics. James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report moderates a panel including Anthony Iozzia, regional sales director for Atlas Ocean Voyages; Ellen Mclivaine, vice president of sales-North America for Ponant; Jason Flesher, director of discovery operations for Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours; and Brandon Oscarson, regional sales director for Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours. For more information, visit https://www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-adventure-vrs. 

How "Welcome to Wrexham" Has Put the Welsh City on the Tourism Map

Joe Bickerton, destination manager for city of Wrexham in Wales, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about Ryan Reynolds' ownership of the Wrexham Football Club, the streaming series "Welcome to Wrexham," and how it has boosted tourism to the city. Bickerton highlights Wrexham's diverse attractions beyond football, plus its focus on attracting international visitors through group tours and packages. For more information, click on Wrexham.

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 to Discover Heritage, Nature, and Culture in Wales

Heledd Owen, director of marketing for Visit Wales, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about Wales' diverse landscapes, heritage, and sustainability efforts, emphasizing its appeal to American tourists seeking unique experiences. Owens encourages collaboration with Wales' travel trade team for tailored experiences, underlining Wales as a destination deserving wider recognition. For more information, visit www.TravelTrade.VisitWales.com and www.VisitWales.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: How to Sell Adventure Tour Programs Today

Adventure travel used to be all about small operators who often didn’t work with travel advisors or pay commission, but today that’s changed. Now larger companies offer an extensive array of adventure travel programs in destinations around the world. Moderated by James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report, the panel includes Wendy Mills, business development manager-Eastern Canada/USA for Exodus Adventure Travels; Ryan Grissett, regional director of sales for Collette; Ashish Sanghrajka, president of Big Five Tours & Expeditions; Jane Behrend, president of Emerging Destinations; and Simon Jones, business development director for Ultimate Jet Vacations.  For more information, visit www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-adventure-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 RoadShows Keynote Interview: Get to Know the Adventure Travel Trade Association

Shannon Stowell, CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about what the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) offers in terms of resources, connections, networking and training on how to sell adventure travel. Stowell tells how ATTA can help boost travel advisor's adventure travel business. For more information, visit www.taconnect.travel/2024-agent-reg-adventure-vrs  or www.adventuretravel.biz.

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 VisitBritain’s CEO Is Planning to Grow Tourism From the U.S.

Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitBritain, talks with Olivia Living of Insider Travel Report about the growth of tourism from the U.S. to the U.K. and VisitBritain's strategies for 2024, including increasing regional exploration and showcasing lesser-known destinations through film and television. Yates highlights London's new luxury hotels and cultural attractions, aiming to attract more visitors, especially from the U.S. For more information, visit www.VisitBritain.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 LA’s New “Now Playing” Tourism Marketing Campaign

Bill Karz, senior vice president for brand and digital marketing for LA Tourism, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about Los Angeles’ new global ad campaign, “Now Playing,” designed to attract tourism from the U.S. and abroad. As part of the largest campaign ever for LA Tourism, a series video spots and other social media are designed to inspire more travelers to visit Los Angeles in 2024. For more information, visit www.discoverlosangeles.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 Bank Became the Luxury Riggs Hotel in Wash., D.C.

Dewayne Wright, general manager of the Riggs Hotel in Wash. D.C., talks with  Darlene Newman of Insider Travel Report about the hotel's history as the former Riggs Bank, known as the Bank of Presidents, and its transformation into a modern luxury property. Wright also discusses the hotel's amenities, dining options, room configurations, and central location near the National Mall. For more information, visit www.riggsdc.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 Ireland Has on Tap for 2024 in Its New Marketing Campaign

Alice Mansergh, CEO of Tourism Ireland, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how Ireland will promote to the U.S. market in 2024, extending the “Fill Your Heart with Ireland” campaign and keying on such attractions as the Wild Atlantic Way, events like St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween, and top golf tournaments. Mansergh also reveals the latest tourism numbers in terms of visitors and spend. For more information, visit www.ireland.com or www.tourismireland.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 Asia Has Come Back Big Time for Remote Lands

Catherine Heald, CEO and co-founder of Remote Lands, the luxury tour operator specializing in Asia, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the return of such destinations as Japan, Korea and even China. She also showcases specialized trips to the “stans”—especially Kazakhstan  and Uzbekistan—as well as the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. Remote Lands’ staples like Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and India also are doing well. For more information, visit www.remotelands.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 the Outlook for Travel Leaders Network for 2024

Roger Block, president of Travel Leaders Network, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at Travel Leaders’ annual media forecast about how members of his travel agency consortium did in 2023 and what the outlook is for 2024. As Block says, now maybe the best time ever to be a travel advisor and Travel Leaders keeps developing the programs and technology agencies need to be successful selling travel, including Agent Profiler leads and more. For more information, visit www.travelleaders.com or www.travelleadersnetwork.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 J2 Sells Croatia and Beyond—Montenegro and Slovenia

Ivana Tomic, founder J2 Collection, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how her destination management company, which specializes in bespoke trips to Croatia, has expanded to offer luxury travel to Montenegro and Slovenia. J2 can now offer multi-country itineraries complete with tours, dedicated guides, top hotels and even cruises. For more information, visit www.J2Collection.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 We Can Fix the Airline Industry Today

Bill McGee, senior fellow-airlines and travel for the American Economic Liberties Project, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his new report “How to Fix Flying: A New Approach to Regulating the Airline Industry,’ co-authored by Ganesh Sitaraman of Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator. McGee details the major recommendations of this groundbreaking report focused on four areas: 1) resilience, competition and Geographic access; 2) fair and transparent pricing; 3) protecting passengers and ensuring safety; and 4) oversight and enforcement To read the full report, click on How to Fix Flying. For more information, visit www.economicliberties.us.

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 Profit From Group Sales of Silversea

Joe Leon, head of sales for Silversea Cruises, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about Silversea’s newly upgraded group sales program, now with a new “Super Advantage” tier. Leon also reveals how Silversea’s Wave Season offers ae boosting sales for the  cruise line and its new ships, Silver Nova and the upcoming Silver Ray. 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 the Bahamas Is Reacting to the Updated U.S. Travel Advisory

Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister of the Bahamas and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the recent U.S. State Department travel advisory for the islands warning travelers against crime specifically in parts of Nassau. Cooper says the Bahamas remains at a Level 2 advisory with the U.S., so nothing has really changed, despite reports in the U.S. media. The Bahamas government is stepping up crime prevention efforts, but crime has not affected any tourists and Cooper asserts the islands are safe and ready for travelers across all 16 island destinations. For more information, call 800-BAHAMAS or visit www.bahamas.com/travel-agents. 

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 Celestyal Is Now a Whole New Cruise Line Sailing the Med and Beyond

Brandon Townsley, vice president and managing director-North America for Celestyal, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how the cruise line, which previously specialized mainly in the Greek Islands, has been completely remade with two new ships, new itineraries, cruises in the Persian Gulf and the Adriatic. Townsley also talks about how Celestyal has vastly expanded its sales for in North America and the way it sells through travel advisors. 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.

How Chef Anthony Sasso Delivers Spanish Cuisine for Windstar

Chef Anthony Sasso, the James Beard-award winning executive chef working with Windstar Cruises, talks with Peter Callahan of Insider Travel Report about his culinary background and his collaboration with the cruise line. As the creative force behind the restaurant Quadro 44 on three Windstar yachts, Sasso delivers a Spanish culinary experience to guests. Here he discusses his menus and how he adapts them for various dietary preferences. For more information, visit www.WindstarCruises.com.

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

How the New Otani Hotel Tokyo Offers Luxury Fit for James Bond

Sayuri Tanaka, assistant director of global luxury marketing for the New Otani Hotel in Tokyo, talks with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about her 1,474-room luxury resort set on 20 acres in a quieter part of Tokyo. Opened in 1964 for the Olympic games, the hotel was later was featured in James Bond film "You Only Live Twice." Tanaka highlights the dining, wellness facilities, banquet rooms and more. For more information, email GMSO@NewOtani.co.jp or visit www.NewOtaniHotels.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 This Michelin- Starred Omakase Chef Will Soon Find Himself at Sea

Chef Michael Collantes of Soseki Modern Omakase talks with  James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about his intimate 10-seat multi-course dining experience in Winter Park, Fla. Chef Collantes, who also has two other sushi restaurants in the Orlando area, also will be a guest chef onboard a Sea Cloud Spirit cruise in Europe this October. For more information, visit www.sosekifl.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.