Travel Trends with Dan Christian

Send us a textIn this episode our host Dan Christian welcomes Bruce Rosard, the esteemed Co-Founder & CCO of Arival, for an engaging discussion on his remarkable life and career journey within the travel industry. Prepare to explore the core of Bruce's incredible path from a hot dog vendor at Veteran Stadium to a key leader in the tours, activities, and attractions sector, understand the nuances of his entrepreneurial ventures, including the birth and growth of his ski business, Moguls, and his pivotal roles at Phocuswright and the formation of Arival, and gain valuable perspectives on recent travel trends and the crucial role of reservation technology platforms for operators in the global travel industry.Discover Bruce's inspiring story, beginning with his early days at Veteran Stadium in Philadelphia and the evolution of his passion for business, leading to the creation of his ski business, Moguls. Learn about his first experiences with the internet and his subsequent rise to leadership positions in Sales and Marketing at Phocuswright. Bruce then shares the compelling story behind the formation and remarkable success of Arival, even amidst the challenges of the pandemic, highlighting his tenacity and creative approach. He also provides valuable insights into current travel trends and participates in a fun-filled travel trivia session centered around his beloved Philadelphia Phillies. Finally, the episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on the impact of over-tourism in Thailand and the vital role of reservation technology platforms for operators across the global travel industry.Curious to explore the dynamic world of tours, activities, and attractions through the experiences of a seasoned industry leader?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://arival.travel/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn this insightful episode of the Travel Trends Podcast, host Dan Christian welcomes Pete Comeau, the esteemed Managing Director of Phocuswright, the world's largest travel research company, for an engaging discussion on the exciting transformations happening in travel events, media, and beyond. Prepare to explore the core of Pete's remarkable career and gain valuable insights into the broader travel industry, understand the innovative initiatives he's leading at Phocuswright to support early-stage startups, and gain valuable perspectives on Phocuswright's groundbreaking research projects, uncovering key market trends such as the power of generative AI in trip planning and the emergence of new travel destinations in a post-pandemic world.Pete shares valuable insights into his extensive career within the travel industry and the innovative ways Phocuswright is supporting early-stage startups. He highlights some of Phocuswright's crucial research projects, shedding light on key market trends that are currently shaping the travel landscape. Our conversation explores the significant impact of generative AI on trip planning, the rise of new travel destinations in the wake of the pandemic, and how major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) are adapting their strategies to meet the evolving needs of travelers. We also discuss the pivotal role that technology plays in enhancing the overall travel experience. Finally, Pete highlights Phocuswright's TravelTech Executive Fellowship Program, a dynamic initiative designed to connect startup founders and industry experts for immersive content sharing.Curious to explore the future of the travel industry through the lens of the world's leading research firm?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://www.phocuswright.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWelcome to Season 2 of the Travel Trends Podcast! Join our host Dan Christian as he welcomes Rafat Ali, the esteemed CEO & Founder of Skift, for an engaging discussion on his riveting journey into the travel media industry and the trailblazing success of Skift. Prepare to explore the core of Rafat's personal and professional growth from a struggling graduate student to a global media entrepreneur, understand the nuances of Skift's unique voice, fresh approach to design and content, and its remote work culture emphasizing work-life balance, and gain valuable perspectives on current travel trends, the future of the industry, Skift's business models, and their global expansion plans, highlighting the inseparable link between travel and global issues.Rafat candidly shares his inspiring story, including the powerful impact of an encouraging letter from his father, which fueled his entrepreneurial spirit. He takes us through his globe-trotting experiences that sparked the creation of Skift and provides insights into how Skift carved its niche in the travel industry through its distinctive voice and innovative approach to design and content. Furthermore, Rafat sheds light on Skift's successful remote work culture, their commitment to work-life balance, and the creative strategies they employ to maintain team connectivity. The conversation then navigates through current travel trends and delves into the future of the industry, with Rafat detailing Skift's business models and ambitious global expansion plans, underscoring the crucial connection between travel and broader global issues and the necessity for fresh perspectives.Curious to explore the journey of a travel media pioneer and gain insights into the future of the travel industry?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://skift.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn the final episode, we bring the curtain down on our successful debut season of Travel Trends. This time, podcast producer Zach Vanasse takes charge and interviews Dan Christian.Their captivating conversation delves deep into the pivotal lessons and key takeaways from the previous nine episodes, as well as the noteworthy moments from Dan's intriguing lineup of interviewees. They explore the origins of the Travel Trends podcast, its connection to The Acceleration Team, and the inspiring experiences at the Collision Conference in Toronto. Moreover, they disclose a glimpse of the exciting interviews awaiting release in Season 2, which is set to premiere in early August 2023.For those who have enjoyed and benefitted from the inaugural season, we encourage you to spread the joy by sharing your favorite episode with three others, and let them know that Season 2 is just around the corner.A heartfelt appreciation goes out to all our esteemed guests, whose trust and participation have made this passion project a reality. To our avid listeners, we extend our sincere gratitude for your enthusiasm and engagement.We look forward to embarking on the next exciting chapter of this remarkable journey together!The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn this episode of the Travel Trends Podcast, our host Dan Christian introduces you to Kait Schneider, a rising star in the travel technology sector, now an established all-star at Plusgrade. Prepare to explore the core of Kait's remarkable growth story as an essential part of the successful startup sherpa°, understand the nuances of her experience scaling their Travel Restrictions product during the pandemic, and gain valuable perspectives on the travel trends she's observing across the airline and loyalty program industries in her current role at Plusgrade.   Discover Kait's impressive journey, starting as an outstanding rookie at sherpa°, where she played a crucial role in the extraordinary growth of their Travel Restrictions product – a team that expanded from 16 to over 100 people in just 12 months during the pandemic. Following this remarkable success, Kait took a well-deserved sabbatical in Thailand before embarking on a significant role at Plusgrade, a new powerhouse in travel and loyalty ancillary revenue. She then shares her insights into the current travel trends she's witnessing within the airline and loyalty program sectors, as well as the go-to sites and apps she relies on during her frequent travels.   Curious to explore the future of travel revenue and gain insights from a rising industry leader?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://www.plusgrade.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn this insightful episode of the Travel Trends Podcast, host Dan Christian welcomes Ian-Michael Farkas, the esteemed entrepreneur and growth catalyst, for an engaging discussion on hospitality, sustainability, and technology. Prepare to explore the core of the evolving landscape of hospitality tech, understand the nuances of global perspectives gained from Ian-Michael's experiences in Tel Aviv, Sydney, and Miami (currently based in Colombia), and gain valuable perspectives on the technology shaping the future of the industry, including AI, drawing from his work with Local Measure, SiteMinder, AWS, and his current role as GM for LATAM at NLX.ai.Ian-Michael, a unique global talent, shares his experiences and insights from working with leading technology companies in the travel and hospitality sectors. He discusses the impact of technology, including Artificial Intelligence, on the future of the industry. Based in Colombia but with extensive experience in global hubs like Tel Aviv, Sydney, and Miami, Ian-Michael offers a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities within hospitality tech. He is currently leveraging his expertise to drive growth and operations for NLX.ai, a leading platform for AI-powered conversational chatbots in travel and hospitality. Beyond his professional insights, you'll also discover his engaging personality and impressive performance in our Travel Trivia challenge!Curious to explore the global intersection of hospitality, sustainability, and technology?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textJoin us for an engaging discussion on luxury escapes in the “Down Under” region with our host Dan Christian and Fiona Dalton, the esteemed GM for Australia and New Zealand at Virtuoso. Prepare to explore the core of the latest travel trends emerging in Australia, understand the nuances of the strong resurgence of travel with a focus on luxurious experiences, and gain valuable perspectives from Fiona's impressive journey as a highly respected veteran in the travel industry, including her passion for mentorship and leadership roles at luxury brands like Uniworld River Cruises Australia and Virtuoso.Fiona, a highly respected figure in the travel industry, shares her wealth of experience and insights gained from leading prominent luxury brands. She highlights the significant comeback of travel in Australia and the notable trend of travelers opting for more luxurious experiences. Her expert perspectives are sure to spark both envy and curiosity among listeners seeking travel inspiration. For those looking to fuel their wanderlust, Fiona's Instagram is highly recommended.Curious to explore the luxurious travel trends in Australia and New Zealand?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://www.virtuoso.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textJoin our host Dan Christian as he welcomes Gilad Berenstein, the esteemed VC & Founder, for an engaging discussion on the exceptional opportunities that AI presents for everyone in the travel industry. Prepare to explore the core of the transformative potential of AI within the travel sector, understand the nuances of how various travel companies are leveraging this game-changing technology (with examples including ChatGPT, OpenAI, Expedia, and Airbnb), and gain valuable perspectives on the future of travel through the lens of AI innovation, drawing from Gilad's experience with his AI Researcher father and his own AI startup, UTrip.   Gilad shares fascinating insights into the vast possibilities that Artificial Intelligence is unlocking for all facets of the travel industry. He reflects on his early exposure to AI through his father's research in Israel and recounts his experience building his successful AI startup, UTrip. Furthermore, Gilad provides several compelling examples of how travel companies, including major players like Expedia and Airbnb, are currently utilizing AI to enhance their services and operations. The conversation also touches upon influential figures and technologies shaping the AI landscape, such as ChatGPT, OpenAI, Elon Musk, and Sam Altman, as well as the innovative approaches of companies like TTC.   Curious to explore the revolutionary impact of AI on the future of travel?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textTravel Trends Podcast, host Dan Christian welcomes Danny Guerrero from The Culturist Group, for an engaging discussion on exploring diversity in travel through a Pride perspective. Prepare to understand the core of why recognizing the needs of diverse travelers is crucial for propelling brands forward today, unravel the nuances of cultural relevance and belonging, particularly for LGBTQ+ and multicultural groups, and gain valuable perspectives on how businesses can establish authenticity and trust by valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.Danny, a coveted thought leader and an award-winning 20+ year travel and tourism marketing expert, shares his fascinating journey into becoming an advocate for multiculturalism and diversity in travel. He explains how he promotes 'culture-forward' thinking to help increase equity and inclusion within the travel industry. Danny also provides excellent examples of companies and colleagues who are leading this vital movement and offers valuable resources and advice to help individuals improve their understanding and embrace diversity. We both encourage you to share any additional company examples or suggested resources in the comments. And for the finale, don't miss Danny's expertise being tested in our engaging 5 Question Trivia Challenge!Curious to explore the importance of diversity and inclusion in the travel industry?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://www.culturistgroup.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textStep inside the world of luxury as our host Dan Christian welcomes Vanessa Budah, the esteemed GM of The VIP Dubai and The VIP Global, for an engaging discussion on discovering Middle East opulence. Prepare to explore the core of Vanessa's travel background, starting in the stunning city of Sydney, Australia, understand the nuances of her decision to embrace an incredible opportunity in Dubai, and gain valuable perspectives on emerging trends among both travelers and influencers, gleaned from her extensive travels in the Middle East, including her recent trip to Egypt.Vanessa shares captivating insights into her journey from Sydney to Dubai and the unique experiences that led her to her current role. Her firsthand exploration of the Middle East provides unparalleled perspectives on the evolving preferences of travelers and the growing influence of social media personalities in the region. As an active and insightful user of platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Vanessa also offers a unique viewpoint on current social media trends shaping the travel industry. And finally, prepare for an impressive display of knowledge as Vanessa takes on our Trivia Challenge – spoiler alert: she excels!Curious to explore the luxurious travel trends of the Middle East?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for a wealth of industry knowledge and expert guidance on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://www.thevipglobal.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/