Travel Agent Takeaways

Planning a USA itinerary for your clients and want to offer something truly unforgettable? In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, I’m joined by the fabulous Lexi Miliatis, Brand USA’s Trade Manager for Australia and New Zealand. With 46 U.S. states under her belt, Lexi shares why she’s so passionate about road trips, and how agents can craft unforgettable self-drive experiences for their clien...

Want to wow your clients with Japan itineraries they’ve never seen on Instagram? If you’re looking to send your clients somewhere special in Japan, this episode is packed with unique, firsthand experiences that go far beyond Tokyo and Kyoto. I’m joined by Harriett Bougher from JNTO, Adam Burke from Scenic, and Ruth Bullock from AH Travel Associates, three seasoned travel experts who recently explo...

Want simple ways to make your job as a travel advisor easier, without spending hours hunting for answers? If so, this chat is for you. In this episode, I catch up with with Kate Webster, new owner of Travel Monitor and a passionate advocate for helping travel agents like you.  Kate shares how her brand-new Agent Masterclass articles are designed to support agents at every stage of their careers, f...

Don't you love that feeling of getting on the plane? In this final episode of season two, I’m joined by Janis McDonald, Sales Manager for Air Canada, to share her insider tips and expert advice on making the most of Air Canada’s onboard experience and seamless connections. We discuss a bit of destination inspiration, including some of Janis’ bucket list favourites such as Churchill’s polar be...

Have you ever wondered how to truly get the most out of Los Angeles for your clients, no matter how many times they’ve been? In this episode, I chat with Kat Brown, Director, Travel Trade - Asia Pacific at Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, based in Sydney. Kat shares her wealth of knowledge about the city, breaking down LA’s seven regions and revealing hidden gems, must-dos, and tips for...

 Do you know much about Oregon? What makes this state so special for travellers? In this episode I chat with Joanne Motta, Travel Oregon’s Trade Director for Australia and New Zealand, to give you a beginner’s guide to the stunning state of Oregon. From its breathtaking natural wonders to its vibrant city life, Joanne shares everything you need to confidently talk to your clients about why Oregon...

Are you keen to dive deeper into France and create immersive itineraries for your clients? In this episode, I chat with Clelie Collas, the Trade Marketing Manager for Atout France Australia and New Zealand. Clelie shares highlights from her recent trip to France, including her experience on the direct Perth-to-Paris flight and innovative wine tourism offerings and immersive wine and food experienc...

Are you looking for ways to deliver the best, customised travel experiences for your clients while saving time and minimising hassle? In this episode, I chat with Vanessa Wallace, owner of V Travel Network, who shares how her company tailors unforgettable journeys for travellers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-track destinations. From complex, curated packages to specialised pre- and post-trip arra...

Are you ready to give your clients a hassle-free, magical Christmas in Europe? I chat with Shelley Poten, managing director of Albatross Tours, as she shares insights on how travel agents can help their clients plan the perfect European Christmas getaway. Shelley highlights Albatross Tours' unique small-group festive tours, designed specifically for Australian and Kiwi travellers, and how age...

Are you ready to boost your travel sales with some simple strategies you can apply today? In this episode I chat with Nicole O'Sullivan, founder of Birds Eye View Consulting, a seasoned travel industry expert turned sales coach. Nicole breaks down the winning ‘Three Cs’  strategy - connection, confidence, and conversion, with actionable tips that you can start using today. Find out how to cre...

Want to learn how to create an unforgettable experience that your clients will love? In this episode I’m joined by Norma Keshishian from Destination Artisans who specialise in arranging private, bespoke tours in France and Belgium. Norma, a true destination expert with over a decade of experience living in Paris, shares her passion for creating personalised itineraries that go beyond the ordinary....

Are you curious about the latest trends in luxury travel? In this episode, I sit down with Katrina Thirkell from Abercrombie & Kent to find out about the hottest destinations and how you can create bespoke, unforgettable travel experiences for your clients. We also talk about the rise of multi-generational and solo travel and how Abercrombie & Kent is leading the way in delivering tailored...

Want to learn how to create the ultimate Anaheim itinerary for your clients? I chat with Michael Cassis, our local expert and representative for Visit Anaheim, who shares insider tips on making the most of this iconic destination. Michael’s knowledge will help you craft unforgettable itineraries including Disneyland and beyond, as well as discovering hidden gems and some of Michael’s favourites. Y...

Ever wondered what happens behind the doors at one of the biggest travel trade shows in the world? Tune in to discover some of the insights and takeaways from Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas! In this special Season 1 finale, I chat with the amazing Roslyn Ranse, a seasoned travel advisor and coach, about her recent experience at Travel Week in Las Vegas. Ros shares her behind-the-scenes look at...

Are you keen to discover the hidden gems of Western Australia and learn how to offer your clients unforgettable travel experiences? In this episode, I chat with Amanda Fenwick from BKB Holidays and Christine Poole from Tourism Western Australia. Together, they share insights on the best destinations, unique experiences, and top-selling packages that WA has to offer. From the majestic Margaret Rive...

Have you or your clients visited Dubai lately? In this episode, I chat with Julie King, CEO of Julie King Associates and local representative for Dubai Tourism, to uncover some of the latest experiences Dubai has to offer. Julie’s insights into the city’s ever-evolving attractions and diverse neighbourhoods will inspire you to plan your clients’ next unforgettable trip. From luxurious stays to bud...

What sets Crystal apart in the luxury cruise industry? In this episode, I catch up with Jacqui Tufala, National Key Account Manager for Crystal, to get all the details behind Crystal’s exceptional service and their recent top-to-toe makeovers. Jacqui shares insider details on the standout features of the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, from their world-class dining options to their high gue...

Are you ready to explore Europe’s most iconic wine regions from the comfort of a luxury river cruise? In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, we chat with Kim Vaughan, Regional Sales Manager for AmaWaterways, to talk about the AmaWaterways’ unique ‘Celebration of Wine’ cruises. With over three decades in the industry, Kim shares her insights on what’s different about these cruises and the exclu...

Are your clients looking to explore Europe and enjoy longer stays, smaller groups and plenty of free time? In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, we catch up with Brett Harvey, Director of Sales at Albatross Tours, to discover what sets them apart and learn what’s in store for summer 2025. Brett shares some of the highlights of their 2025 Europe and UK collection, including exciting new tours,...

Do you want to stand out from the crowd and sell more of what you love? In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, I'm joined by Anna Shannon from Travel Agent Finder to talk about destination specialist programs. Discover the top six reasons why these programs are game changers for you and your business. We discuss how these certifications not only boost your knowledge but also help you stan...

Are your clients dreaming of road tripping in New Zealand? In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, we chat with Kylie Wapp, National Account Manager for ANZCRO. Kylie outlines the incredible New Zealand Highways Collection - from glacier adventures to wine tours, discover four curated self-drive itineraries promising unforgettable experiences. Kylie shares what’s included in each itinerary, beg...

What’s Hong Kong like these days and what’s new? In this episode, we catch up with Toni Fan, Assistant Manager of Trade Marketing for Hong Kong Tourism Board, based in Sydney. Toni shares her insights from her recent visits, highlighting some new attractions and old favourites, from the popular Peak Tram to the vibrant West Kowloon Cultural District. Discover foodie tips, the art scene,  and outdo...

What makes Canada a top travel destination? In our first episode, Charlie chats with Nathan McLoughlin about his 17-year journey with Destination Canada. Discover the diverse beauty of Canada, from landscapes to Indigenous cultures, and hear about Nathan's recent trips, including the Rendez-vous Canada trade show. Learn about Canada's 2030 tourism strategy, focusing on sustainability and...

Are you a busy Aussie or Kiwi travel agent looking to stay ahead in the travel industry? Tune into Travel Agent Takeaways, your go-to podcast for bite-sized destination and supplier updates on the go. In this trailer, host Charlie Trevena introduces the podcast's mission to provide quick chats with industry reps, sales managers, and travel legends, delivering the latest news, tips, and insigh...