Travel Agent Takeaways

This episode of Travel Agent Takeaways explores the Armstrong Collective's two luxury rail brands, Rocky Mountaineer in Canada and Canyon Spirit in the USA. BDM Hannah Taylor outlines the unique onboard experiences, scenery and target markets for each rail brand, highlighting Rocky Mountaineer's iconic Canadian Rockies routes and Canyon Spirit's adventure-focused itineraries through...

This episode of Travel Agent Takeaways highlights why the Kingdom of Tonga stands out as one of the South Pacific's most authentic and unique destinations.  Tonga Tourism representative Richard Skewes explains why Tonga is best suited to travellers seeking genuine cultural experiences, adventure, nature and wildlife. He outlines the different island groups, how many days are needed to explore...

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Jessica Cory from the Vanuatu Tourism Office is back to share the latest destination updates as well as the new Vanuatu Specialist Program: Welkam Vanuatu. Hear about the destination’s strong recovery and growth, including increased visitor numbers, the reopening of major hotels after the 2024 earthquake, new flight connections, and the return of Air Vanu...

This episode of Travel Agent Takeaways features AmaWaterways reservations consultant Bridget Pawley, who shares insights from her 30-year travel industry career and explains in her experience, what river cruisers, or potential river cruisers, are really looking for. Bridget discusses the rise of younger and multi-generational travellers, how advisors can identify clients suited to river cruising,...

In this episode of the Travel Agent Takeaways podcast, Charlie chats to Visit Park City's Megan Underwood about what makes the destination a favourite winter escape for Aussies and Kiwis. Megan highlights Park City’s two major ski resorts, Park City Mountain Resort - the largest ski resort in the United States and part of the Epic Pass network, and Deer Valley Resort - the luxury ski-only res...

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie catches up with Simran Mediratta, the local AU/NZ representative for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.  Sim shares details of Qantas’ new seasonal nonstop service between Sydney and Las Vegas, as well a general destination update. The discussion highlights how Las Vegas has evolved into a destination for families, couples, luxury tr...

This episode of Travel Agent Takeaways previews Albatross Tours’ Summer 2027 European touring program with Harry Sargant from Albatross Tours. Charlie chats with Albatross Tours' National Sales Manager, Harry Sargant, covering the company’s signature way to tour "The Albatross Way", with smaller groups, longer stays, character-filled accommodation and included excursions designed sp...

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways , Charlie chats to Lexie from Brand USA about the broad, growing appeal of sports tourism in the United States. Highlighting major events such as the FIFA World Cup, NFL games, and the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics, alongside increasing interest from Australian and New Zealand travellers.  Learn how these events can anchor or enhance travel itineraries, wi...

Jump on board with the growing popularity of small group tours, with Pete Rawley & Ingrid Berthelsen from Evolution Travel Collective. Learn how the sector has expanded beyond its traditional “adventure travel” roots to appeal to a wider and more affluent audience.  This discussion covers how smaller groups, slower-paced itineraries, and higher comfort levels are attracting new travellers, whi...

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Anna Shannon and Alex Pickering to share candid, on-the-ground insights from their recent trips to the Philippines, California, and Switzerland.  They discuss what international travel currently feels like, what their contingencies looked like, their upcoming travel plans and how important is it for travel professionals to be sharing their travels.  As an indu...

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways , Charlie chats with Di Schinella, local representative for Destination Vancouver. This episode focuses on how Vancouver is preparing to host matches during the FIFA World Cup, and why the city is well suited to such a major global event.  It outlines where matches will take place, and highlights Vancouver’s appeal, including its compact, walkable layout,...

In the Season 4 finale of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie is joined once again by Nathan McLoughlin from Destination Canada. As the very first guest to ever appear on the podcast back in July 2024, Nath’s return brings things full circle for this 38th episode. Together, Charlie and Nathan look back on everything the Destination Canada team has achieved in 2025, including key trade initiatives, age...

Dive into the festive season with European Christmas specialists, Albatross Tours.  Charlie is joined by National Sales Manager Harry Sargant as part of the launch of their Festive 2026 program. Albatross Tours has been sharing the magic of Christmas in Europe for 30 years, and with the 2026 season now open for bookings, Harry shares all you need to know for a standout festive selling season. Disc...

In this episode, Charlie chats with David McMahon, our local representative for San Francisco Travel, North Lake Tahoe & South Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes Tourism and Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism. Join us on a road trip through Northern California’s most spectacular landscapes. From the cityscapes of San Francisco to the alpine beauty of Lake Tahoe, the mountain magic of Mammoth Lakes, and t...

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways , we’re setting sail with Windstar Cruises, the leader in small-ship cruising that brings guests closer to the world’s most captivating destinations. From private yacht-style experiences to immersive itineraries and award-winning service, Windstar offers something truly special for travellers who want more than the typical cruise. Charlie is joined by Wind...

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats with Vanessa Wallace, owner of V Travel Network, about travelling in Turkey and the Anzac Day 2026 commemorations.  Vanessa shares her deep personal connection with Turkey, and explains why the country appeals to so many travellers with its mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery.  She outlines how V Travel Network partners with Fez Tr...

Will you Answer the Call of Vanuatu? And did you know, Vanuatu is home to some of the world’s best diving?  From the famous SS President Coolidge wreck, to pristine reefs teeming with marine life.  In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats with Jess Cory from the Vanuatu Tourism Office about why Vanuatu should be on every diver’s bucket list, how agents can package diving with other...

Dreaming of selling California with confidence?  In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie catches up with Eva Huezo from Visit California to uncover the Golden State’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and insider tips for showcasing its true value.  From world-famous icons to authentic local moments, discover how to help your clients experience more of California in every trip. Plus,...

Are you keen to grow your travel industry network? In this episode, Charlie welcomes back Anna Shannon from Travel Agent Finder to explore the untapped potential of LinkedIn for travel agents - not as a tool for gaining clients, but as a platform for professional visibility, networking, and industry engagement.  Together, they discuss why LinkedIn stands apart from other social platforms, how agen...

Are you and your clients Disney fans? Charlie is joined by Steph from Disney Destinations to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Disneyland Resort.  They reflect on Disneyland’s rich legacy since its 1955 opening and the emotional connection families from Australia and New Zealand have built with the park over generations.  Steph shares personal stories, the magic for all ages, and why Disneyland is...

What's the difference between Hurtigruten and HX? In this episode, Charlie chats with Amber from HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) to explore what sets this cruise line apart in the growing world of expedition cruising. Amber explains the brand’s evolution from its Norwegian heritage to becoming its own identity, offering all-inclusive voyages focused on science, sustainability, and transformative...

Vancouver is not just a gateway, it's a destination in its own right. In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways , Charlie chats with Di Schinella, local representative for Destination Vancouver, fresh from her most recent 10-day visit to the city.  Di shares a personal and passionate take on why Vancouver is more than just a pre- or post-cruise stopover.  From cherry blossoms in spring to buz...

Are you looking for a reliable, trade-friendly touring partner? Look no further than Albatross Tours. In this episode, Shelley Poten from Albatross Tours shares a raft of exciting updates, including multiple recent accolades such as back-to-back NTIA Awards, a Women in Travel honour, and a stellar employee satisfaction score.  She reflects on the importance of having a happy team and strong indust...

Do you want to sell Switzerland with ease? In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways , Charlie is joined by Sonia Holt, Marketing Manager for Switzerland Tourism in Australia and New Zealand, to delve into what makes Switzerland a compelling destination.  Sonia highlights Switzerland’s year-round appeal—from spring wildflowers to golden autumn landscapes, magical Christmas markets, and world-class...

Are you keen to sell more Southeast Asia tours?  In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways , I catch up with Dennis Basham, Managing Director for Exoticca in Australia, to explore the brand’s unique offerings for travel agents in the region. Dennis highlights Exoticca's background as a B2B-only tour operator focused on making it easy for agents to sell immersive small group and private tours....