RTE-Travel Talk

In this episode of RTE Travel Talk, host Ken chats with Alaska travel veterans Rich and Linda Skinner of Cruise Holidays of Woodinville. With decades of experience and countless Alaska sailings under their belts, Rich and Linda break down their expert picks for the top five Alaska cruise lines—and share exactly why each one deserves a spot on your radar. From iconic lines like Holland America and...

Ever wondered what makes an expedition cruise different from a traditional cruise? 🛳️ Is it the destinations, ship size, or onboard experience? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Jennifer Walters, a seasoned travel expert, to break down everything you need to know about expedition cruising and whether it’s the right choice for your next adventure! 🌎 What You’ll Learn in This E...

Join Ken, host of RTE-Travel Talk, as he welcomes special guests Rich and Linda Skinner from Cruise Holidays of Woodinville to review their recent AmaWaterways Colors of Provence Christmas Markets River Cruise. Discover the magic of France's Christmas markets as Rich and Linda share highlights from their itinerary, including the unique charm of stops along the river, the culinary delights of Frenc...

In this episode, Ken sits down with Anne-Marie Gaudet, owner of Cruise Holidays of Metro East, to discuss five ways a expert travel advisor can save your vacation. Essential travel tips that can also apply to DIY vacationers. Whether you're booking a dream getaway or dealing with unexpected travel issues, these expert insights will help you avoid common mistakes, get the best value, and handle tri...

Have you experienced Celebrity Cruises? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Allan Brooks, Director of Sales for Canada at Celebrity Cruises, to dive into the world of premium cruising and what makes Celebrity one of the most innovative cruise lines in the industry. In This Episode, We Explore: 🌍 New Ships & Itineraries for 2025 & 2026 – Discover the latest in Celebrity’s f...

alling all golf and travel enthusiasts! In this episode of RTE Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Laura Dodson from Cruise and Travel Specialists to discuss how you can combine your love for river cruising and golf. 🌟 Highlights of This Episode: Learn about AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna and its Danube golf cruise with up to five rounds of golf. Discover Uniworld’s SS Bon Voyage and its Bordeaux itiner...

Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with river cruise expert Shari Marsh of Cruise Holidays Land and Sea to answer the burning question: Which European river offers the most breathtaking views? If you're dreaming of a luxurious, stress-free journey through Europe’s most picturesque landscapes, this episode is for you! Shari shares her expert insights on what makes each river cruise uniqu...

In this informative episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken is joined by Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to discuss two important updates for international travelers: the Schengen Area's new ETIAS system and the United Kingdom's ETA requirements. Larry breaks down what travelers need to know about the ETIAS, a new electronic travel authorization required for entry into participating Europea...

What makes Disney Cruise Line so special? In this episode of Just the Facts on RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with travel expert Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to discuss five (or maybe more!) unique things that set Disney Cruises apart. From magical embarkation moments and incredible themed nights to world-class dining and exclusive entertainment, we’ll reveal why Disney Cruise Line is...

Looking to plan the best river cruises in Europe? Don’t miss this episode of Just River Cruises on RTE Travel Talk! Ken sits down with river cruise expert Lauren Matthews to share insider tips on enhancing your Danube River cruise with pre- or post-cruise extensions. Discover Lauren’s top three picks for unforgettable add-ons: • Prague, the "City of a Hundred Spires," offering stunning castles, vi...

Thinking about taking your kids or grandkids on a Christmas Markets River Cruise? Wondering if AmaWaterways is the right choice for a family-friendly European river cruise? Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with travel expert Christy Fitzharris to review her recent AmaWaterways Christmas Markets cruise—with her four-year-old daughter! 🌟 What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Are AmaWat...

Thinking about cruising the mighty Mississippi or exploring destinations closer to home? Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Chris and Tracy Archer of Good Life Travel Group to compare American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises on the Mississippi. In this in-depth discussion, we break down the key differences between these two cruise lines, including: ✅ Itineraries & Destinatio...

Do cruise lines still have formal nights, or is it a thing of the past? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel to explore the best cruise lines for formal nights, what to expect, and whether you should pack that tux or cocktail dress. 💡 Topics Covered: ✅ Which cruise lines still have formal nights (Holland America, Celebrity, Princess, MSC, Royal...

Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Liane Lance and Sheri Clarke of PT Travel to discuss their incredible journey through these breathtaking destinations. Discover expert insights and firsthand experiences that will inspire your next adventure! 🚢 Explore the Wonders of the Galapagos: ✔️ Learn about choosing the right Galapagos cruise—whether you’re after a small, intimate expeditio...

Join Ken, the host of RTE-Travel Talk, as he sits down with Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to review Tauck Tours' Best of Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks tour. In this insightful discussion, Larry shares a captivating Tauck story and explains why staying inside the national parks is a game-changer for experiencing these iconic landscapes. They dive into the benefits of small gr...

Top 3 Must-Visit Pre or Post Cruise Destinations for Your Rhine River Cruise: Amsterdam, Lucerne & Lake Como! In this episode of Just River Cruises on RTE Travel Talk, host Ken is joined by river cruise expert Lauren Matthews to discuss the ultimate add-ons to your Rhine River cruise experience. Lauren shares her top recommendations for pre- and post-cruise extensions, including the charming canal...

Cruise tips for the Mediterranean, just the facts on the winter season or off-season cruising. Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera for another episode of "Just the Facts." They discuss the advantages of off-season Mediterranean cruising, including fewer crowds, lower costs, milder weather, and unique, seasonal experiences. Larry shares his i...

Everything you need to wanted to know about cruising Canada & New England with Princess Cruises Join us for another episode of RTE Travel Talk as Ken sits down with travel expert Brenda Case of Travel Planning by Brenda to explore the charm, history, and breathtaking beauty of a Canada New England cruise aboard the Enchanted Princess by Princess Cruise lines Brenda shares her personal experiences...

Which Disney Cruise Is The Best For You? Disney Wish Vs. Disney Dream Vs. Disney Magic In this episode of RTE Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Mindy Baker of Wheels Up Travel Co. to dive into the magical world of Disney Cruise Line! Together, they compare three iconic Disney ships: the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream, and the Disney Magic. Mindy shares her personal experiences aboard the Wish an...

Comparing Tauck, Uniworld & Viking In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Beth Schulberg, owner of Cruise & Travel Specialists, to provide an in-depth comparison of three renowned river cruise lines: Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking River Cruises. As an industry expert, Beth offers insights on how to choose the right river cruise based on your travel preferences, whether you’re see...

Join Ken, host of RTE-Travel Talk, as he welcomes Barb Chamberlain from Direct Travel for an in-depth review of Seabourn cruises, the epitome of ultra-luxury small ship cruising. Discover what sets Seabourn apart in the world of high-end travel, including its all-suite accommodations, renowned all-inclusive experience (excluding excursions), and exquisite dining that rivals fine restaurants ashore...

In this episode, host Ken from RTE-Travel Talk sits down with Christy Fitzharris, founder of Wheels Up Travel Company, and Carolyn Szekeres, Sales Director for Riverside Luxury Cruises, to dive deep into what makes Riverside Luxury Cruises one of the most talked-about newcomers in luxury river cruising. Launched in 2023, Riverside has already captured the attention of travelers worldwide with its...

In this episode of Just the Facts, RTE-Travel Talk host Ken sits down with Real Travel Expert Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to explore what might be their favorite luxury cruise line—Silversea. They begin by addressing the concerns of long-time Silversea cruisers, assuring that the line continues to deliver exceptional experiences. The conversation then shifts to the top-notch service...

In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with travel expert Brenda Case from Travel Planning by Brenda to discuss how Holland America Line handles unexpected situations during a cruise. From missed ports and itinerary changes to rough seas and health emergencies, Brenda shares her insights and firsthand experiences, including a memorable Alaska cruise. Communication is key when thing...

In this exciting second part of their African Safari adventure, RTE-Travel Talk host Ken sits down with Beth Schulberg of Cruise & Travel Specialists to dive deeper into their luxurious journey. They share their impressions of Amboseli National Park and discuss why it didn’t quite meet their expectations. The conversation shifts to Tanzania's Neptune Lodge, which left a lasting impression for its...