MASTers of Travel

This vlog features John Werner, President of MAST Travel Network, and Vanessa Janvier, Senior Manager of National Accounts at Holland America Line, discussing Holland America’s longstanding and specialized cruise offerings in Alaska. Holland America Line has been sailing to Alaska for nearly 80 years, establishing itself as a leader in immersive and authentic Alaskan travel experiences. Vanessa sh...

This episode features an insightful interview with Diana Harris, Managing Director and Partner of Arts and Leisure USA, a luxury travel company specializing in bespoke, high-end travel experiences primarily across Europe but also extending to other global destinations. Diana shares the company’s origins, values, and how they meticulously craft personalized travel itineraries through a hands-on, co...

In this episode, John Werner, President & COO, MAST Travel Network and Dawn Burtch, Key Accounts Manager, North America from the Armstrong Collective discuss the unique luxury rail journeys offered by Rocky Mountaineer and Canyon Spirit. These rail experiences focus not just on transportation but on immersive, scenic travel through some of North America’s most breathtaking landscapes, includin...

In this episode of the MASTers of Travel Podcast Series, John Werner, President of MAST Travel Network, interviews John Cherneski, Senior Vice President of Sales for North America at Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). The discussion centers on the appeal, offerings, and unique features of Norwegian Cruise Line and the broader cruise industry. Cherneski, with over 30 years of experience in cruising, shar...

This episode features John Werner, President & COO of MAST Travel Network, and Morgane Beltaief, Sr. Director, Strategic Accounts at Oceania Cruises about their Alaska cruise offerings. Oceania Cruises, known for its upscale, small-ship experience, focuses on delivering unique, immersive Alaskan itineraries that combine luxury, culinary excellence, and authentic travel experiences. Morgane hig...

In this episode, John Werner, President & COO, MAST Travel Network and Archy Arushanyan, National Director, Globus family of brands discuss Avalon Waterways’ innovative approach to river cruising, emphasizing new evening experiences, diverse daytime excursions, wellness programs, and themed cruises designed to enhance guest engagement and satisfaction. Avalon Waterways is pioneering the “Avalo...

In this episode of MASTers of Travel, John Werner, President & COO, MAST Travel Network sits down with Kevin Carter, Director Of Strategic Partnerships at Collette, one of the longest-running tour operators in the travel industry. Join us as we explore how Collette crafts immersive travel experiences across the globe, from cultural deep dives to culinary adventures. We discuss the evolution of...

John Werner, President & COO, MAST Travel Network and Michael Weldon, Director, National, Key & Strategic Accounts, HX | Hurtigruten Expeditions discuss expedition cruising, highlighting unique experiences, educational opportunities, and diverse destinations. Highlights  HX specializes in unique expedition cruises to remote destinations. The company has over 60 years of experience in Antar...

John Werner, COO, MAST Travel Network and Archy Arushanyan, National Director, Globus Family of Brands discuss their new small group discovery tours, emphasizing unique & immersive travel experiences. 🌟 Small Group Advantage: Smaller groups allow for unique experiences and deeper connections, making travel more personal and memorable. 🏞️ Unique Destinations: Globus focuses on lesser-known des...

Miguel Sanz, Managing Director, Tourist Office Of Spain and John Werner, CEO, MAST Travel Network discuss the diverse culture, geography, and attractions of Spain, emphasizing its unique blend of European traditions, and the importance of responsible and sustainable tourism practices. They highlight the country's extensive high-speed train network, the significance of museums and festivals, a...

In this episode, Arin Vaughan, Director of Strategic Accounts at Insight Vacations, and John Werner chat about the company’s tailored and personalized travel experiences, as well as their commitment to sustainability and local engagement. They explore the different touring styles offered by Insight Vacations, the growing trend of solo travel, and the company’s services for group vacations. Lastly,...

In this episode, Rosalinda Rodriguez, Senior Manager at Amstar, joins John Werner, President and COO of MAST Travel Network to discuss Amstar’s luxurious offerings, including customized excursions for individuals, groups, and large events like weddings and conventions.  Amstar offers services in 8 countries and 31 destinations, specializing in a variety of excursions, including private and deluxe...

In this episode, John Werner, President and COO of MAST Travel Network, engages in conversation with Andrew Davis, Senior Manager of National Accounts at Holland America Line. During their discussion, Andrew elucidates the distinctive attributes that distinguish Holland America from other products within the cruise industry. Notably, he emphasizes the enriching cultural experiences that they offer...

In this episode, Pam Hoffee, President of Avalon Waterways, joins John Werner, President and COO of MAST Travel Network to discuss all things river cruising. Learn why River Cruising has become so popular in recent years and what Avalon is doing to separate themselves from the rest of the market. Pam highlights the intimate and unique experiences that river cruises provide. She also answers the co...

In this week’s episode MAST President and COO John Werner sits down with EcoAmerica Tour's Director for the Western United States, Marc Ahumada. They discuss the company's history and its customized journeys across Central and South America since 1989.  EcoAmerica's specialty is Latin America. In this episode, expect to learn about various adrenaline building adventures and romantic...

In this week’s episode MAST President and COO John Werner sits down with Hurtigruten's Business Development Manager, Glenn Eastwood, to discuss what makes Hurtigruten unique in the cruise and expedition space. Glenn emphasizes the authentic off-the-beaten path destinations that Hurtigruten visits and areas tourists don't normally populate. Tune in to hear the distinctive nature of this e...

In this week’s episode MAST President and COO John Werner sits down with the staff of Cary Travel Express, Cary, Illinois to discuss five trips that their travel advisors took in the last year with Avanti Destinations. Explore Costa Rica with Dana Prichard, traverse Manchester, Edinburgh and the Lake District of Scotland with CTE Owner Neelie Kruse, see Normandy, France with Jan Callahan, head to...

MASTers of Travel continues with President and COO John Werner and MAST Member and Agency Owner Jenny Cagle of Elm Grove Travel in Elm Grove, Wisconsin. Jenny recently returned from a fun-filled trip to England and Scotland with Avanti Destinations and recounts the highlights of food, culture, and surprising modern twists. If you or your clients are looking for a great itinerary and a supplier tha...

Welcome back MASTers of Travel, in this episode MAST Travel President and COO John Werner sits down with Celebrity Cruises Manager of Cruise Tours Program Brendan Halcomb to discuss Experiencing Alaska. In this episode John and Brendan go in-depth on why Alaska cruising is a phenomenal option for multigenerational travelers, adventure seekers, and even first time cruisers. Learn about why Celebrit...

In the latest installment of MASTers of Travel President and COO John Werner discusses the latest on Oceania Cruises with Scott Kluesner, Vice President of Strategic Accounts. In this episode Kluesner details the onboard foodie experiences Oceania offers including the private dining experience -- Privee. Along with dining and wine experiences, Oceania has added new itineraries as well as a new cla...

President and COO John Werner sits down with Vice President of Agency Sales, North America for Norwegian Cruise Line, Derek Lloyd to discuss NCL’s newest ship – the Prima. John and Derek detail the new line of ships from Norwegian, with all the updates and taking the cruising experience outdoors. Find out about the new Ocean Boulevard, infinity pools, and the exclusive updates to the Haven.

Have you ever envisioned yourself amongst the Giant Tortoises of the Galapagos Islands? Learn how you can set sail with Celebrity Cruises in the MASTers of Travel Interview by John Werner, President and COO of MAST Travel Network and Susana Romero, Director of Galapagos Sales & Communication for Celebrity Cruises. John and Susana detail the enchanting world of setting sail to the Galapagos wit...

MAST President and COO John Werner sits down with Margaret Campbell, Director of Marketing for Mayflower Cruises & Tours. John and Margaret discuss both domestic and international travel options. With advice on the type of travel that travelers are looking for. From foodie tours, to night life options, as well as great music discovery locations, and adventure travel, Mayflower is offering trav...

In this episode of MASTers of Travel, MAST President and CEO John Werner sits down with Jennifer Halboth, Director of National Accounts for Globus Family of Brands, to discuss their latest product – Choice Touring. In this new touring style, Globus offers customers more flexibility, and more choices in their tours. There is something for the adventure traveler, options for foodies, and awesome nig...