Travel Trends with Dan Christian

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. 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. 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. 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. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textStep into the world of global business travel as we record live from the Global Business Travel Association's (GBTA) Toronto conference—where industry leaders overseeing a staggering $345 billion in corporate travel spending converge. The business travel sector isn’t just rebounding; it’s thriving. According to GBTA CEO Suzanne Neufang, global travel spending has surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, projected to hit $1.63 trillion in 2025 and exceed $2 trillion by 2028. Despite early doubts about its future, business travel has proven indispensable, with face-to-face meetings remaining a key driver for cultivating relationships and fostering corporate culture.Our discussions uncover remarkable transformations in travel trends. Day trips are nearly obsolete, replaced by longer stays of 3-5 nights, as 40% of business travelers prioritize productivity and better work-life balance. Additionally, "blended travel"—combining business with leisure—has soared, with a 60% rise in adoption compared to pre-pandemic times. We also explore Toronto’s Exhibition Place, a 192-acre hub hosting over 2,100 annual events, as General Manager Laura Purdy highlights its sustainability leadership through LEED certification, renewable energy initiatives, and robust waste diversion programs that make eco-friendly meetings a reality. Heather Neale from Destination Toronto paints the city as a global business hub, celebrated for its multicultural vibrancy and connectivity. With 53% of residents born outside Canada and direct flights from 180 destinations, Toronto offers a unique blend of international appeal and North American convenience. Whether you’re organizing corporate events, managing travel programs, or curious about the forces driving global mobility, this episode offers valuable insights into an industry that builds connections and drives innovation across borders. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at the power of bringing people 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 our Special Hospitality Series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide, we spotlight two standout leaders from The Summit in Monaco: Scott Campbell, Director of Revenue Management at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, and Jeff Wielgopolan, Service Director at Meadowood Napa Valley.What does it take to deliver world-class service—when you've never experienced it yourself? This powerful question sits at the heart of five-star hospitality, and both Scott and Jeff offer deep insight into how they lead teams to create authentic, elevated guest experiences that go far beyond expectations.From Hammock Beach’s coastal charm and multi-generational appeal to Meadowood’s remarkable comeback following a devastating fire, both properties reflect a unique commitment to service, storytelling, and soul. Jeff’s past life as a Forbes Travel Guide inspector brings rare perspective to training and standards, while Scott’s philosophy balances innovation with emotional connection.Together, they unpack the secrets to balancing consistency with flexibility, empowering teams to excel, and ensuring that luxury is a deeply personal and unforgettable experience. Tune in for a meaningful look behind the stars of luxury hospitality—and the people who make it shine.The final episode of Season 2 of our Special Hospitality Series with Forbes Travel Guide premieres next Thursday - don’t miss the grand finale!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, we’re joined by Ismael García, Chief Marketing Officer of Civitatis, a leading Spanish-language OTA that’s reshaping how millions experience travel. From humble beginnings as a travel blog to becoming a major player offering tens of thousands of activities worldwide, Civitatis has carved out a unique space in the global tourism industry.We discuss into their impressive growth trajectory (including a $50M raise and 30% annual growth), their strategic expansion into new language markets, and why offering 24/7 support in travelers’ native languages has helped earn a 9.1/10 satisfaction rating from over 4 million reviews.Ismael also talks about:How social media is evolving into a search engine for travel inspirationWhy Japan is becoming a top destination for Latin American and European travelersHow curation, sustainability, and local expertise will shape the future of tourismAnd for those building their career in travel? Ismael's advice: find the wave—and ride it.👉 Listen to Transforming Spanish-Speaking  Tourism Through Curation 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. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWelcome back to episode 8 of our 10-part Special Hospitality Series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide! This week, we continue our "Leaders Behind the Stars" spotlight with two groundbreaking announcements from CEO Hermann Elger, shared at The Summit in Monaco.  First, Hermann revealed ATELIER CX, a pioneering consulting studio dedicated to reshaping the customer experience for brands worldwide. Helmed by Silvia Nauta, a luxury hospitality executive with over 20 years of experience, ATELIER CX is poised to revolutionize how brands design and deliver exceptional customer journeys.  We also hear from Alyssa Bushey of BOND CO.LAB, a unique platform fostering impactful collaborations between luxury hotels and ultra-luxury consumer brands. Together, these partnerships are redefining how service providers meet the expectations of modern travelers.  One recurring theme emerged from our conversations with Silvia and Alyssa that challenges traditional hospitality norms: "Take care of your team, and they’ll take care of your guests." This human-centered philosophy resonates deeply in today's landscape, showcasing how internal team bonds and external partnerships are key to creating unparalleled experiences.  For a new generation of luxury consumers, including experience-driven millennials and Gen Z, these innovative approaches deliver the kind of personalized, memorable moments that define true five-star hospitality.  New episodes drop every Thursday! Stay tuned as we feature industry leaders across the globe—from Beverly Hills to the Seychelles.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 the final instalment in our Guided Touring series as we chat with Ben Hall, CEO of AAT Kings, Australia and New Zealand's leading guided touring provider. This episode dives into the legacy of AAT Kings, a 100-year-old tour company renowned for creating immersive experiences that celebrate authentic cultural connections and sustainability.  What You’ll Discover in This Episode:  How AAT Kings evolved from a transportation service to a leader in guided tours across Australia and New Zealand.  Why modern guided tours are far from inflexible, featuring customizable options and exclusive, hard-to-access experiences.  The unique value local guides bring with personal anecdotes, historical context, and a deep understanding of the culture.  Highlighted Indigenous experiences that connect travelers to the world’s oldest continuous culture, dating back over 60,000 years.  Small group adventures with Inspiring Journeys, offering access to remote and pristine destinations.  Sustainability efforts focusing on local community support, wildlife conservation, and environmental restoration.  How technology enhances tours, with guest portals that allow travelers to personalize their journeys.  The vast scale of Australia and how guided tours address logistical challenges for travelers who often underestimate distances.  Immersive cultural experiences that connect travelers with local families, farms, and Indigenous communities.  The role of travel directors, carefully selected for their expertise, people skills, and passion for sharing the local culture with guests.  Enjoy a fascinating discussion that highlights the innovation behind modern guided touring and explore how AAT Kings provides meaningful, sustainable, and memorable travel experiences.  👉 Listen to Lessons in Leadership & Operational Excellence 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. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textImagine stepping off a small turboprop plane onto a pristine island less than a mile long, where coconut trees sway in gentle breezes and sea turtles nest undisturbed along protected shores. Welcome to the Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, where luxury meets untouched nature in perfect harmony.Join us for the latest episode of our Special Hospitality Series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide, where we shine a light on one of the "Leaders Behind the Stars"—Mark Basaloga, Resort Manager at Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island. Mark takes us behind the scenes of this extraordinary property that earned Forbes Travel Guide's first Five-Star rating in the Seychelles just one year after opening. Experience the extraordinary magic of Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island for yourself – where luxury meets conservation, disconnection leads to deeper connection, and authentic experiences create memories that last a lifetime. We will be releasing new episodes every Thursday—don’t miss this exceptional 10-part series featuring hospitality leaders from Beverly Hills to the Seychelles.The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/