Luxury Travel Insider

My guest today is my friend Sam Chamberlain, CEO of the Americas for Ponant Explorations - one of the most interesting expedition cruising companies out there.  Whether you dream of experiencing the world's most technical luxury icebreaker, enjoying the company of penguins, having fabulous French food on board, or exploring typical destinations in new ways - you can accomplish all these dreams and...

Today we're venturing into the Atlantic, making stops on the islands of The Azores and Madeira. Imagine stunning verdant volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastal cliffs, and temperate weather all year round. Don't forget incredible food and a unique expression of Portuguese culture.  My guests today are Filipe Fraga from Madeira and Beatriz Sousa from The Azores. We chat about the differences and com...

Welcome to the 2024 besties episode of Luxury Travel Insider. I've invited two of my best friends, Kristen Sandvig and Hao Tang, to join me to dish on all things travel.  All three of us are professional travelers, spending up to a third of our years out of the country. It's our job to be discerning… and maybe a little snobby!  So, in this unfiltered conversation you'll hear our opinions on everyt...

Though we may celebrate some of the same holidays across regions and countries, we all do them so differently. Understanding those differences can help us to understand each other, it adds beauty to the season, and might even give you a new destination for your wishlist.  Chatting holiday traditions with me today are Cristina Consuegra, our partner in Colombia; Helmut Kugler, our partner in German...

Though we may celebrate some of the same holidays across regions and countries, we all do them so differently. Understanding those differences can help us to understand each other, it adds beauty to the season, and might even give you a new destination for your wishlist.  This year I'm chatting about holiday traditions with Samuel Dabinett, the GM of the famed Park Hyatt Sydney, Urban Axelsson fro...

Today we're headed to experience a tapestry of turquoise lagoons, emerald-green islands, and coral-fringed shores.  Whether you're diving with sharks, climbing the ridge of a volcanic peak, or relaxing in your overwater bungalow - French Polynesia, or Tahiti for short - is sure to be nothing short of spectacular.  We have a fun show for you today, with my friend and partner in the region, Raphael...

Today we're discussing the country of Peru, and all the riches it has to offer. While many people think of Peru synonymously with Machu Picchu, the country is twice the size of Texas and has so much more to offer.  After exploring the incredible culture of the Incas and modern day Peruvians living in the Andes, you can also visit the Amazon, enjoy some of the top restaurants in the world, and lear...

Today, we're escaping to one of the most exclusive private islands in the world— COMO Laucala. The island is tucked away in the shimmering South Pacific in the north of Fiji. This stunning destination is more than just a tropical paradise; it's a celebration of untouched beauty, sustainable luxury, and authentic Fijian culture. Joining me is Gary Henden, General Manager of COMO Laucala Island. Gar...

Today we're headed to Greece - land of crystalline seas, fabulously fresh food, and the cradle of democracy.  My guests today are Yann Gillet and Jerome Colson, General Managers of the highly anticipated One&Only Aesthesis and One&Only Kea Island. I love this episode because we explore some lesser visited areas of Greece - the glamorous Athenian Riviera set 25 minutes from the city center and the...

Today, we're being whisked away to the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest of the Hawaiian islands. This incredible destination offers so much more than just stunning beaches. It's a place where you can experience everything from lush rainforests to snow-capped volcanoes and explore a vibrant culture that's deeply connected to the land. We're checking into the gorgeous Four Seasons Resort Hualalai....

In honor of Halloween, today's show is all about legends, ghost stories… and the beautiful city of Prague.  My guest today is Katerina Sedlakova, one of the top guides in the city. She shares how storytelling in Prague has been a way to pass down lessons and legends for generations. We cover ghosts and ghouls as well as the history of the city and why it's a beautiful place to visit.  So Insiders,...

I'm excited for you to join me today to head back to my favorite city, the eternally beautiful Rome. There's something about this place that draws you in, makes you feel alive, and gives you a deeper perspective on the passing of time.  We're checking into one of the top new hotels in the world, The Bulgari Rome. The hotel is situated right next to the mausoleum of Agustus and is attracting jet se...

Today we're headed to a small country, nestled in the heart of Europe. Austria surprises and then charms its visitors with stunning Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and elegant imperial architecture. Whether you're searching for the perfect apple strudel, want to hike in hills filled with the "Sound of Music,"  or experience the famous coffee culture, operas, or Viennese Balls - Austria...

Today I'm inviting you out on a luxury yacht to swim in crystal clear coves, smell the scent of lavender, and enjoy a cocktail under the pink skies of sunset. We're setting out to explore the Dalmatian Islands off the coast of Croatia and enjoy all the culture, food, wine, and beauty they have to offer.  Our guests today are my friends in the region, Giorgio Surian, Mirela Rubic, and Alberto Ditta...

Today we're headed to the Laikipia region of Kenya, where the rugged beauty of the savannas meets rolling hills and stunning views of Mt. Kenya.  We'll land on 50,000 acres of conserved land and enjoy everything the gorgeous Segera Retreat has to offer.  Joining me to tell you all about Segera are its owners Jochen and Kate Zeitz. Jochen has been the CEO of companies like Puma and Harley Davidson...

Welcome to Luxury Travel Insider's birthday episode for this year! We published our first episode this month four years ago. So today I wanted to celebrate how far we've come, the who's who list of industry experts we've had on the show, and thank you for all of your support so far. We're not stopping anytime soon so please keep your feedback and ideas coming!  If you've been listening for a while...

The date of recording for today's show is September 12, 2024. That's important because our show today is topical and a little time sensitive.  I started this In The Now format of episode to highlight certain countries and destinations who have experienced events (whether internally or externally) that have disrupted their tourism numbers.  A few weeks ago I was chatting with my good friend Haytham...

Today we're headed a bit off the beaten path, to the world's largest island of Greenland. Though often called the land of ice and snow, in the summer you can find wildflowers, berries, beautiful fjords, and a robust local culture.  Whether you're looking to escape the frenzy of cities and popular tourist destinations, have an interest in marine life, or are fascinated by having an authentic experi...

We have a fun episode for you today, centered around Costa Rica and family travel. As one of our most popular destinations, we're always working to find new and interesting ways to explore this beautiful country and to help families make lasting memories.  Joining me on this episode is my friend and partner in the region, Javier Echecopar. Javier also brought along his 15 year old daughter, Fiore,...

Today we're visiting a country passionate about music, food, and enjoying life. While those passions are shared across the country, otherwise it is extremely diverse. The landscapes range from tropical beaches, to rainforest, to waterfalls, and more. The cities are huge and vibrant. The people are from cultural backgrounds as different as Japanese and African.  Joining me to chat all things Brazil...

Today we're diving deep into one of the most iconic cities in Italy. As a favorite of art lovers, history buffs, and appreciators of beauty the world over, Florence almost needs no introduction. But behind the fact that the renaissance started here, behind all the contributions of the Medici and Leonardo and Michelangelo - there is the beating soul of Firenze.  My guests today are Michela Babini,...

Today we're headed deep into the American West to discover magical deserts, epic adventures, impossibly big skies, and wildlife you just can't see anywhere else in the world. This is a land of contrasts - from the hottest desert, to the largest trees; from the longest canyon, to the world's most epic super volcano. And aside from the natural wonders, we've got surfers, cowboys, Native Americans, a...

Today we're heading to the dazzling city of Bangkok. We're greeted by ornate temples, bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, chic rooftop bars, and quaint floating markets.  In this city that never sleeps, every moment is an adventure and every nook and cranny whispers echoes of ancient Thai culture.  My guest today is Nick Downing, General Manager of the gorgeous Siam Hotel, nestled right on the ba...

Today we're indulging in fine cuisine, going behind the scenes of couture fashion houses like Chanel and Dior, and delving into some of the world's most important traditions in art. Paris, the City of Light, has always been at the forefront of luxury, indulgence, and craftsmanship.  Joining me to chat on all things art, fashion, and history are my friends Leah Walker and Philippe Hertzberg, two of...

Today we're diving deep into one of the most iconic cities in Europe. Imagine picturesque canals, historic buildings, and a modern vibe all its own - and come with us on a journey to Amsterdam.  My guests today are Robert-Jan Woltering, the Managing Director of the iconic De L'Europe Hotel in Amsterdam and Ronald Van der Kemp - fashion designer and founder of RDVK, the world's first sustainable co...