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. Joining us to share his insights is Charlie Parker, the Regional Vice President and General...

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 wish you a very Happy Halloween season full of spooky stories, crisp fall evenings, and...

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 set and celebrity guests from around the globe.  Our guest is my friend Vincenzo Falcone, and we...

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 has something for almost everyone. My guests today are Thomas Bachinger, our expert on all...

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 Dittadi. We chat about the culture in the islands, some really special experiences to be had, the...

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 but his passion lies in Africa and the culture and arts of its people. Kate is an accomplished...

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 you know that our signature question is asking each guest what travelers would learn about the...

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 Atwan, who is one of our top partners in Egypt. He mentioned that tourism in Egypt took a 60%...

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 experience with Inuit culture - Greenland is for you.  Our guest today is Colby Brokvist, the lead...

My guest today is Kelly Craighead, President & CEO of CLIA - one of the travel industry’s most important associations representing all things cruises! Before running CLIA, Kelly was the senior government representative for all travel and tourism matters at the Department of Commerce.  So if you’re interested in travel trends and what’s new in the cruise industry, you’re in for a treat!  Kelly and I chat about everything from how millennials are the fastest growing generation for cruise...

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, to give us a bit of perspective on life in Costa Rica for kids and teens and to share some of...

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 are three experts in the region. Joe Sandillo, our partner in Brazil; Fabio Delantonia, a chef...

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, President of The Place of Wonders; Claudio Meli, General Manager of my home in Florence, The...

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, and a melting pot of cultures in between.  My guest today is Kevin Jackson, our partner for...

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 banks of the Chao Phraya River. We chat about everything from the prior King to modern pop...

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 our partners for ultra-special experiences in Paris.   We discuss everything from art history,...

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 couture label. The three of us chat about the “live and let live” spirit in Amsterdam, how Dutch...

Today we’re headed to experience a tapestry of majestic palaces, sprawling deserts, and colorful festivals.  Whether you’re hot air ballooning, riding a camel, or enjoying the fabulous food - Rajasthan, the largest state in India - is sure to be nothing short of spectacular.  We have a fun show for you today, with my friend and partner in the region, Anil Pathak and historian, hotelier, and arts enthusiast, Aman Nath. We chat about everything from the Maharajas, to how locals see the...

I’m excited for you to join me today in a less often visited area of the Amalfi Coast. High up on the cliffs, overlooking the azure waters of the Med, sits the charming town of Ravello. Take in the smells of roses, lemons, and fresh sea breezes while learning about some of the richest history on the coast. We’re settling into the historic Palazzo Avino owned and run by my friends, Mariella Avino and her sister Attilia Avino. We talk about how Ravello has remained a hidden gem and why it has...

Today we’re heading to the bustling, yet beautiful metropolis of Hong Kong. Instead of telling you about it in my own words today, I have a couple quotes that I think really sum it up:  Journalist Peter Lindberg “Life in Hong Kong transcends cultural and culinary borders, such that nothing is truly foreign and nothing doesn’t belong.” And then a little tongue in cheek from British writer Jonathan Gash, but it’ll hit home for those of you who truly love luxury hotels: “Hong Kong is the...

Today we’re diving into the world of private yacht charters. Whether you’re taking 30 of your best friends on a mega yacht or just want a nice 4 cabin catamaran for your family in the British Virgin Islands - there is a yacht out there for you!  I grew up sailing and during Covid I took a course on yacht brokering, so we love planning this type of trip for our clients but there are still so many unknowns if you’ve never done a yacht charter so I wanted to have one of our partners join me...

Today we’re headed to the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain, and zeroing in on Mallorca. This magical island boasts quaint mountain towns, stunning beaches, and is quintessentially Mediterranean. Think olive oil from hundred year old trees, oranges blossoming all over the island, and of course wine and local specialties.  My guests today are Elena Florez, our partner in the region, and Rene Zimmer, the Managing Director of Cortesin Hotels and the brand new hot spot on the island, Grand...

Today, we embark on a journey to a place shrouded in mystery — mesmerizing Easter Island. Nestled in the heart of the vast Pacific Ocean, this remote paradise beckons with its Moai statues, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. I previously thought a visit to Easter Island would be mostly focused around seeing the famous statues, but I now understand that this destination is so much more. When you think of the remoteness of the people and their reliance on the land, and weave in...

Today we’re headed to Montenegro - where alpine mountains meet crystalline seas, where warmth and humor are still important, and where you can choose your own adventure between relaxing, exploring, or focusing on your health.  My guest today is Tessa Gorman, the Managing Director of the gorgeous One & Only Portonovi in Montenegro. I love this episode because we dive into what makes Montenegro such a juicy country to visit but also into some touching stories about guests and beautiful...