Travel Trends with Dan Christian

Christian Lachel, Chief Creative Officer at BRC Imagination Arts, has over 25 years of crafting immersive travel experiences. He discusses the booming $1.3 trillion in-destination experience industry and how storytelling transforms ordinary venues into unforgettable memories. The conversation highlights the impactful Jameson Distillery, showcasing how it captures Irish hospitality. Christian shares insights on counteracting digital disconnection through designed experiences and emphasizes the importance of broad expertise for aspiring designers.

Joan Roca, CEO and founder of Essentialist, reveals how his membership-based travel company is redefining luxury travel. He shares insights on crafting unique itineraries by understanding individual member preferences, merging technology with personal touch. Roca discusses the shift towards meaningful, curated experiences that cater to affluent travelers and the growing importance of community ties. With an emphasis on authentic travel and the seamless blend of service and technology, he illustrates how Essentialist fosters deep connections between travelers and their destinations.

Send us a textStep into the future of aviation in this special event spotlight, recorded live from the Aviation Festival Americas in Miami.Host, Dan Christian sits down with some of the brightest minds in aviation and travel tech to explore the innovations reshaping the industry:• Amir Amidi explains how Plug and Play Tech Center connects startups with corporate partners across the travel ecosystem• Tom Trotta details how travel insurance is evolving through AI-powered claims processing and proactive benefits for delayed travelers• Marco Gons from "No Longer Lost" demonstrates their innovative QR code solution for reuniting travelers with misplaced items, pets, and even children• Aaron Bricker, CEO & Founder, Skyward Aviation Insights shares how to enhance efficiency and profitability • RAVL's community platform combats the isolation of business travel by connecting professionals in the same destination• Irma Sadlauskaite, Avion Express shares strategies for recruiting and retaining pilots amid a global shortage• Terminal manager Yaqui Ramos reveals how Munich Airport NJ creates exceptional passenger experiences• Arpad Szakal, Partner Aviation & Transportation, Cormis Partner shares how to find the best senior level talent• Dalton Laine from GoJetAirlines discusses his unique business helping entrepreneurs launch new airlines• Oleksandr Plyska from Sigma Software Group highlights digital transformation and AI from an IT services company for airlinesWhether you’re in the business of travel or simply curious about the future of flying, this episode delivers insider insights, breakthrough ideas, and a glimpse of what’s next in aviation.Subscribe now and stay tuned for Season 6 of Travel Trends, launching this September with an in-depth focus on aviation’s future.The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textTravel tech is evolving at lightning speed - reshaping how the world moves, books, and experiences journeys. In this episode, we sit down with Karen Bolda, Chief Product and Technology Officer for Private Label Solutions, Expedia Group’s B2B division, to explore the cutting-edge innovations driving the future of global travel from behind the scenes.Karen takes us behind the scenes of Expedia Group's massive B2B operation – a side of the business many travelers never see but that powers over 70,000 businesses and 160,000 travel advisors worldwide. From her unique journey starting as a software developer to leading technology strategy for one of travel's biggest players, Karen offers rare insights into how Expedia is integrating AI throughout its ecosystem.The conversation shatters common misconceptions about technology's role in travel. Rather than replacing travel advisors, Expedia Group's AI-powered tools are freeing them from operational tasks to focus on what computers can't replicate: human connection and expertise. Through specific examples like their quotation tools and virtual agents for travel advisors, Karen illustrates how technology enhances rather than diminishes the human element in travel planning.We explore how Expedia Group's expanding product offerings – from hotel and flight bookings to vacation rentals through vrbo and increasingly into activities and experiences – reflect evolving traveler expectations for more comprehensive, seamless journeys. Perhaps most impressive is their AI-powered fraud prevention system, which stopped $4 billion in fraud in 2024 alone.This episode offers a compelling look at the technological revolution transforming the way we explore the world. It highlights how innovative advancements are making travel more secure, seamless, and deeply personalized—ushering in a new era of smarter, more meaningful journeys. 👉 Listen to Expedia's B2B Strategy: How Technology Drives Global Travel Partnerships Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupThe #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textThis spotlight episode takes you behind the scenes of the Educational Travel Consortium (ETC) 2025 Conference in Mobile, Alabama. Since its inception in 1987, ETC has cultivated a unique and thriving community of U.S. college alumni programs, nonprofits, travel planners, and industry suppliers. Together, this network manages billions in travel spending, united by a common goal—to create travel experiences that inspire meaningful change and lifelong memories.  Founded by the visionary Mara DelliPriscoli, ETC has set the standard for collaboration and innovation in the travel industry.This year’s conference brought together extraordinary voices, including Susan Black of Wowzitude, who is redefining virtual travel, and Alan Merschen, who introduced us to the enriching concept of the “dim sum life.” Industry leaders from organizations like National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions, Journey Mexico, Adventure Canada, Tourism Winnipeg shared their expertise on the art of meaningful travel. Additionally, PHD Academic Michael Luongo took us on a deep-dive into travel in conflict zones, and Jim Friedlander gave us unique insights into ultra-luxury private tours.A special highlight? Our host, Dan, delivered a keynote on the groundbreaking role of AI in travel, an address that is now available on the Travel Trends Podcast YouTube channel for anyone who missed the live presentation. We’re thrilled to have been part of such an impactful gathering and are excited to have been invited to return next year! To all of our esteemed guests, the ETC Team and especially to Mara DelliPriscoli, who built this remarkable community from the ground up, thank you for making this gathering so extraordinary.For those passionate about shaping the future of travel and creating transformational journeys, this is the episode for you. Don’t miss it! The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWhat’s really behind the rising tide of interest in river cruising? In this episode, Pam Hoffee, President of Avalon Waterways, dispels common myths and reveals the innovations fueling this fast-growing segment of the travel industry. From her serendipitous start in travel after a chance encounter in a college bar to leading award-winning ship designs, Pam shares how Avalon has reimagined the river cruise experience—infusing it with authenticity, sustainability, and unexpected luxury.By orienting beds to face panoramic windows and sourcing ingredients from local markets, Avalon redefines the meaning of detail-driven travel. Pam also discusses the surprising rise in younger travelers drawn to river cruising post-pandemic, and how programs like Avalon Choice deliver immersive, flexible experiences to match evolving preferences.Whether you're curious about crowd-free, motion-sickness-free cruising or simply want to hear what makes exploring the Rhine, Bordeaux, or Southeast Asia by river so unforgettable - this conversation will make you rethink what river cruising is really all about.👉 Listen to Transforming How a Global Tour Operator Masters River Cruising Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupThe #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textDiscover how Scenic has redefined river cruising by introducing the industry's first ships with outdoor private balconies. Lisa McCaskill, VP of Sales and Marketing for Scenic Canada, shares the inspiring story of how this Australian-founded company evolved from a land touring operator into a global leader in luxury river cruising - all by listening closely to guest feedback. Scenic's "spaceships" deliver an ultra-luxury, truly all-inclusive experience where guests can enjoy fine dining, premium beverages, excursions, and gratuities without worrying about additional costs. Their sister brand, Emerald Cruises, offers a more customizable "inclusive modern luxury" experience, catering to travelers who prefer to tailor additional options to their preferences. Lisa highlights Scenic's onboard amenities, such as multiple dining options, including Crystal Dining and the exclusive Table La Rive, as well as wellness features like the innovative Salt Therapy Lounge. She also discusses popular itineraries, like the Amsterdam to Budapest route that’s ideal for first-time cruisers and the increasingly sought-after Douro River cruises in Portugal, which often sell out well in advance. The conversation also covers how Scenic markets its experiences through a combination of travel advisor partnerships, informational sessions, and television programming. Additionally, Lisa sheds light on the company’s sustainability initiatives and its expansion into new destinations like Southeast Asia with purpose-built ships tailored for those waters. Whether you're an avid river cruise traveler or considering your first voyage, this offers a captivating look at the thoughtful innovations and authentic luxury driving the growth of this unique travel segment.👉 Listen to Crafting Luxury River Experiences Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupThe #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWhat happens when 100 years of travel expertise converge with Europe’s iconic rivers? In an engaging discussion with Steve Spivak, Tauck’s Vice President of Global Sales & Reservations, we uncover how this family-owned company’s “small is big” philosophy elevates river cruising into a truly exceptional experience. Since its founding in 1925, when Arthur Tauck guided six guests on a New England adventure in a rented Studebaker, the company has grown while maintaining a steadfast commitment to its core principles.Tauck’s river cruising approach embodies this legacy, offering a more exclusive experience by hosting just 84-130 guests on ships that competitors often pack with 190. Spaciousness is key, with 80% of their cabins exceeding 225 square feet, ensuring unrivaled comfort. Unlike many operators, each ship is staffed by four director-level professionals rather than a single cruise director, delivering unparalleled attention to every detail.The concept of "truly all-inclusive" defines Tauck’s philosophy. Guests enjoy premium spirits, fine wines, gratuities, transfers, and every excursion without additional charges or upsells. Unique experiences, such as after-hours access to the Louvre or exclusive dining in private Viennese palaces, set Tauck apart. Solo travelers are also warmly welcomed, as their Category 1 cabins are offered without a single supplement.Looking ahead, Tauck’s deliberate growth reflects its dedication to quality over quantity. With two new French ships set to debut in 2026, their focus remains on preserving the guest experience rather than expanding rapidly to meet investor demands—an advantage of their family-owned model. Whether you’re new to river cruising or seeking to understand what makes operators unique, Tauck’s thoughtful approach and century-long expertise promise an unforgettable journey through Europe’s storied waterways.👉 Listen to Lessons in Exploring the Evolving World of River Cruises Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupThe #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWelcome to our grand finale episode of Season 2 of our Special Hospitality Series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide, the global authority on luxury hospitality.In our finale episode, we're thrilled to feature three extraordinary "Leaders Behind the Stars." First, award-winning travel journalist Jeannette Ceja shares her journey of pursuing a master's degree in France while maintaining her global media career. Her perspective on representation and finding one's voice offers valuable insights for industry professionals.We then dive deep with Marc Friedland, founder of Couture Communications, who reveals how he transformed traditional printed communications into emotional touch-points that create lasting connections between luxury brands and their guests. His remarkable story of designing the Oscar envelopes demonstrates how tactile elements can elevate momentous occasions - a principle he now applies to hospitality settings where thoughtful design creates what he calls "emotional imprinting."The episode culminates with Freddie Moross, founder of Mindstream, who's revolutionizing how hotels approach sound design. Moving beyond background music, his company creates strategic sonic environments backed by neuroscience.The thread connecting these conversations is clear: in a digital age, thoughtfully designed sensory experiences - whether through personalized notes, branded tactile elements, or carefully composed soundscapes - create the meaningful connections and memory anchors that distinguish truly exceptional hospitality. Thank you for joining us for our special 10-part Forbes Travel Guide Hospitality Series.  We sincerely hope you enjoy this insightful finale and look forward to our continued collaboration with the Forbes Travel Guide team. The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textThe river cruise industry is poised for remarkable growth, with the market expected to double from $5 billion to $10 billion in the next five years. But what’s fueling this surge—and how is technology transforming one of travel’s most immersive and intimate experiences?In the kickoff episode of our River Cruise Series, we’re joined by Ragnar Fjölnisson, Founder and CIO of travel tech platform Kaptio, for a behind-the-scenes look at a sector that millions have fallen in love with, yet few truly understand.From humble beginnings with repurposed barges in the 1960s to Viking’s breakthrough launch in 1997—now a publicly traded company worth nearly $20 billion—river cruising has evolved into a refined blend of luxury, accessibility, and cultural depth.Ragnar explains what makes river cruising unique: smaller ships with just 100–120 passengers, docking directly in historic town centers, and offering a boutique hotel experience on water. This format is attracting a new wave of travelers—from affluent explorers to multi-generational families, where grandparents often fund the trip for the entire group.But with opportunity comes challenge. While many operators excel in fleet management, fragmented distribution channels and inflexible tech stacks continue to hold the industry back. That’s where Kaptio steps in - bringing modern, agile technology built for cruise operations, dynamic packaging, and future-forward innovation. Still, Ragnar emphasizes one constant:“AI plays a supporting, augmenting role. But it can’t replace the human connection.”With thought leaders like Kaptio and pivotal players such as Tauck, Avalon, and Scenic, the future of river travel promises to be as inspiring as the journeys themselves. Join us as we continue to uncover the stories redefining the river cruise experience in this exclusive series.👉 Listen to Introducing River Cruise Travel Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupThe #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 6 launches in September. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/