Travel Trends with Dan Christian

Send us a textEver wondered how personal connections can redefine luxury travel? We had a captivating chat with Eli Wagner, the mastermind behind Wagner Bespoke Travel, at the Forbes Travel Guide 'The Summit' in Las Vegas, who took us through her transition from entertainment law to luxury travel. Eli reveals why she believes travel advisors are irreplaceable in curating unforgettable experiences and shares her thoughts on the ever-evolving demographics of luxury travelers. Learn how her agency thrives solely on referrals and word-of-mouth, showcasing the unparalleled power of personal relationships in her line of work.Eli also opened up about her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing perseverance and staying true to one's brand. We discuss the importance of dedicating time and effort to your passion, even when initial clients are hard to come by. Eli’s advice? Focus on what you love and excel at to build a stronger, more authentic brand. Tune in for valuable tips and inspiring stories that could reshape your approach to both travel and entrepreneurship. Connect with Eli on Instagram at Wagner Bespoke or visit WagnerTravel.com to learn more about her unique approach to luxury travel.The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn this episode of our Special Hospitality Series, we had the privilege of sitting down with one of the most esteemed travel journalists in the industry, Peter Greenberg of CBS News. Recorded at Forbes Travel Guide's 'The Summit' in Las Vegas, this episode showcases Peter's remarkable journey and his unique approach to travel journalism. Key Highlights Include:Peter's Journey in Journalism:Peter shares his transformation from an investigative reporter at Newsweek to prominent roles at ABC News and NBC's Today Show, along with the specialized training and firsthand experiences in aviation and maritime operations that have shaped his approach to covering travel and transportation.The Role of Technology in Travel:He highlights a recent incident where an airline chatbot's error led to a costly lawsuit, emphasizing the importance of human expertise in travel planning and problem-solving and the hidden pitfalls of over-relying on technology in the travel industryIndustry Challenges and Trends:He examines post-pandemic staffing challenges and the oligopolistic behavior of airlines. We discusses the potential impacts of the 2024 US election year on travel behaviors and industry trends.Refocused Travel Priorities Post-Pandemic:Peter Introduces the concept of "refocused travel," where experiences are prioritized over material possessions. And why despite rising travel costs, the industry is booming as people seek meaningful and enriching adventures.Financial Insights:Peter highlights his concerns about the financial strain of high-interest credit card debt on travelers and discusses the benefits of alternative payment solutions like Affirm and Uplift.For those seeking more expert advice and updates, Peter Greenberg’s website (petergreenberg.com) and his work with CBS News are invaluable resources.Join us for an enriching discussion packed with travel wisdom, practical tips, and profound insights from one of the industry's foremost experts. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your next great adventure, this episode is a must-listen.Stay updated with the latest in travel trends and expert advice by following Peter Greenberg on CBS News and visiting Peter Greenberg's Website.The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textJoin us from the vibrant Forbes Travel Guide 'Summit' in Las Vegas as Mia Kyricos , the world's first Chief Love Officer, reveals how love and positivity can be game-changers in the corporate world. With a rich background from Starwood Hotels, Spa Finder, and Hyatt Hotels, Mia shares groundbreaking insights on integrating wellness into both personal and professional spheres.We discuss how 'The Summit' event uniquely blends professional growth with personal well-being, ensuring a positive experience for all attendees.  We discuss her keynote presentation and the revolutionary concept of institutionalizing love within business strategies—a concept Mia profoundly explored during the 2020 pandemic. From her academic beginnings at Cornell to her hands-on roles with leading hotel chains, Mia highlights the essential role of well-being for both hotel guests and their employees. She stresses the importance of data to validate wellness and love as strategic business elements, offering fresh perspectives on maintaining positive energy in people-facing roles.We also tackle the foundational role of trust in creating a thriving workplace culture. Discover practical tools like the Be Well, Lead Well platform that assess leaders' commitment to personal well-being and gain insights into 2024’s wellness and travel trends, with a spotlight on personalization and fitness-focused hotels.Tune in to this episode to be inspired and ready to embrace wellness and positivity in every facet of your life.   Thank you Mia and the Forbes Travel Guide Team. The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIntroducing Our Special Hospitality Series in Partnership with Forbes Travel GuideWe're thrilled to kick off our new special podcast series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guides, focusing on the incredible world of luxury hospitality that was showcased at their 'Summit' event in Las Vegas.Our First Guest Spotlight: Chip ConleyTo launch this series, we had the pleasure of sitting down with industry legend Chip Conley. From his illustrious career as a creator of the boutique hotel movement, to taking Airbnb public to founding the revolutionary Modern Elder Academy, Chip brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Key Insights from the Episode:Future of Luxury Travel: Chip shares his vision on the future of luxury travel, emphasizing how it intertwines with the art of aging gracefully. He highlights the emerging trend of longevity travel, where vitality and wellness take center stage for the 50+ crowd."Learning to Love Midlife": Chip’s latest book offers a guiding light for those navigating midlife transitions. He provides a fascinating preview of the wisdom-filled pages, rebranding midlife 'crises' as opportunities for rebirth.Community and Connection: We discuss the magnetic pull of community in travel, where connections often translate into lasting business relationships.Wellness Retreats and Personal GrowthChip unveils the transformative power of wellness retreats designed for midlife transitions. These sanctuaries cater to a demographic often misunderstood and misrepresented, offering a space where wisdom is shared rather than taught.Leadership and ReflectionLastly, Chip discusses his invaluable leadership ritual of quarterly reflections. This practice not only accelerated success at Joie de Vivre, Airbnb, and MEA, but could also serve as a catalyst for triumph in your own personal and professional life.Tune In Join us on this inspiring journey as we explore the secrets of thriving in life's later chapters and uncover the future of luxury travel with Chip Conley. This episode is a must-listen for travel enthusiasts eager to understand the nuances of maturation and the untapped potential within the luxury travel market.The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWelcome to the season three finale of Travel Trends! In this special episode, the entire team comes together for a warm and reflective look back at the podcast's journey this season. We share our favorite memories, from insightful discussions on sustainability and the powerful voices of women in travel to format changes that truly connected with our listeners. Zach, Jen, and Katherine each share their personal highlights, celebrating the triumphs and acknowledging the challenges overcome during our most successful season yet.This episode is more than just a trip down memory lane; it's a heartfelt toast to the growth and impact of the Travel Trends podcast. We shine a light on unforgettable moments, such as Jen's exceptional hosting skills and Zach's invaluable behind-the-scenes work with incredible guests like Paul English. We also celebrate episodes that broadened our perspectives, including our in-depth explorations of Canadian travel trends and the exciting experience of hosting our first AI Summit, all of which pave the way for an even more thrilling season four.Looking ahead, we offer a sneak peek at what's to come: an even wider range of captivating topics, fresh and engaging voices, and an exciting new collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide. With plans to capture the stories of the individuals shaping the future of travel, we're gearing up for an enthralling season four. Get ready to pack your virtual bags and continue exploring the ever-evolving world of travel with us!The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textWhat's shaping how Americans travel in 2024? Today on the Travel Trends Podcast, we zero in on the key trends impacting US travelers, with a particular focus on the worlds of tour operators, travel insurance, and the influential 50+ demographic. We're joined by three leading voices in the travel industry: Christina Tunnah, GM at nib Travel; Ryan Busse, VP at Grand European Travel; and Matthew Philips from AARP, who offer their expert perspectives on shifting consumer behaviours, summer travel aspirations, and the undercurrents of an election year.Prepare for some surprising insights! We learn from Matthew that "Sex" is a surprisingly popular search term among AARP's retired travelers, and Christina shares the unexpected revelation that some Travel Insurance policies cover STDs. It's these kinds of candid conversations that often yield the most fascinating discoveries. We trust you'll find this overall discussion thought-provoking. We encourage you to share any interesting US Travel Trends you've noticed for our upcoming newsletter and future episodes. Plus, your ideas for Season 4 topics and guests are always welcome!Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for valuable industry knowledge and expert advice on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guests: https://www.getours.com/https://www.aarp.org/travel/https://www.nibtravelinsurance.com.au/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn this episode of the Travel Trends Podcast, we've gathered three all-stars from the Tours and Activities world to share the key trends that are shaping our industry as we prepare for the summer travel season of 2024 and beyond. Our discussion begins with Stephen Joyce, Vice President of Content at Arival, who deepens our understanding with his extensive knowledge of social media strategies, content creation, and his insightful perspective on the tours sector. Stephen, a true expert in the field, also co-hosts the Arival podcast with Janelle Visser, offering a wealth of beneficial insights and analysis.Next, we connect with Roman Townsend, the Managing Director of Belvera Partners, who plays a crucial role in guiding the public relations strategies for major players like Arival and Phocuswright. With his broad experience working with B2B Travel companies worldwide, Roman reveals valuable strategies for effectively using 'Earned' Media, with a particular focus on leveraging LinkedIn to amplify PR efforts.Curious to hear the latest trends in the Tours and Activities sector from leading experts?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for valuable industry knowledge and expert advice on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guests: https://belverapartners.com/https://arival.travel/https://www.holibob.tech/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textIn this engaging conversation on the Travel Trends Podcast, we connect with Charles Shima, the inspiring Rwandan-Canadian entrepreneur who founded Tourifique. We trace his incredible journey from enduring the unimaginable during the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda to becoming a force for change in Afro-centric travel.We explore the deep experiences that not only built Charles' strength but also motivated him to build a platform that truly honors the vibrant cultures of Africa. He's creating ways for travelers to discover real, often unseen, local experiences. Throughout our talk, we discuss how African destinations are often missing from the bigger picture of global tourism and how Tourifique is actively working to bring these stories forward. Charles highlights why it's so important to have different voices in the travel tech world and the huge chance to offer fresh travel experiences for African American travelers and anyone wanting to explore this incredible continent. He shares some exciting travel trends for 2024, showing a growing interest in Afro-centric trips among younger people. We also touch on Africa's growing impact on global culture, its dynamic music and fashion scenes, and how travel influencers and content creators are changing how people see the continent.Curious to hear about the power of travel and the rise of Afro-centric adventures?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for valuable industry knowledge and expert advice on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://tourifique.ca/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textToday's episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to drive their brand forward through strategic affiliate marketing. We're joined by Jamie Birch, the founder of JebCommerce and a leading expert in the world of affiliate marketing. Are you a travel business owner or marketer aiming to increase bookings and revenue? Then get ready, because Jamie's extensive knowledge is about to become your guiding light in the expansive affiliate marketing landscape.During our conversation, Jamie guides us through the evolution of affiliate marketing, clarifying common misunderstandings and sharing essential strategies. Learn how to evaluate and select the affiliate platforms that best suit your travel brand's specific needs. Discover Jamie's effective tactics for building mutually rewarding relationships with affiliates that can significantly boost your travel business. Get insider tips on how to measure and optimize the performance of your affiliate campaigns, ensuring every step brings you closer to achieving your business booking objectives. Stay ahead of the curve with Jamie’s expert predictions on upcoming shifts and trends in affiliate marketing within the travel sector.Curious to learn how affiliate marketing can propel your travel brand's growth?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for valuable industry knowledge and expert advice on your favourite Podcast App!Connect with Our Guest: https://jebcommerce.com/The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

Send us a textJoin us for this special hospitality edition of the Travel Trends Podcast, broadcasting live from Forbes Travel Guide's 'The Summit' in Las Vegas, for a captivating conversation with the visionary CEO & Founder of Virtuoso, Matthew Upchurch. With a deep-rooted history in travel, Matthew provides a remarkable look into his family's legacy and the collective ingenuity of 1950s boutique travel agencies that played a significant role in shaping the personalized travel advisor experiences we value today. Our conversation begins with the inception of Virtuoso and traces its incredible journey to becoming a global leader in luxury travel. Matthew shares fascinating insights into the evolution of the travel industry and the key global luxury travel trends for 2024.We discuss his presence at 'The Summit' and the numerous benefits and key takeaways from this year's successful event, ranging from partnership opportunities with prestigious 5-Star Hotels to insightful workshops on Artificial Intelligence. In an era where technology increasingly influences our experiences, Matthew sheds light on the dual role of AI in optimizing processes while underscoring the enduring importance of the trust established through human connection. A Must Listen - This episode is undoubtedly one of the most inspiring, engaging, and valuable discussions we've ever featured on Travel Trends. For that, I extend my sincere gratitude to Matthew for joining me for this incredible conversation.Curious to hear from a true visionary in the world of luxury travel?Don't forget to show your support by hitting the like button and subscribing to the Travel Trends Podcast for valuable industry knowledge and expert advice 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. Season 5 In Progress. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/