Luxury Travel Insider

Today we’re headed to Provence in Southern France to be well, soak up the sun, and inhale the scent of lavender.  This special region has so much to offer, from intense outdoor activities to easy bike rides, to impressionist history, and of course a refreshing glass of rose’.  Our guest today is Alain Bachmann, the GM of a special property near Luberon called Coquillade. This gem was originally built in the 11th century and much of that history is preserved. Today, it’s a haven for all kinds of travelers, from those who are training for cycling races to those who are just here to enjoy the gorgeous countryside and the spa.  Alain and I discuss what makes Provence so special, why artists like Van Gogh were taken with the area, and some of the special foods you might find on a journey here.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today we’re touching down in the Alps… the Swiss Alps to be precise. In this most stunning of landscapes we’ll encounter over 7,000 lakes, four different spoken languages, some of the world’s best chocolate, and an abundance of charming villages and towns.  Switzerland is a mecca for cultural tourists, spa goers, and anyone who appreciates the majestic outdoors.  My guest today is Mario Wuersch, Swiss himself and an expert in luxury travel to the country. Mario’s company has been around since 1865 and we discuss what travel was like back then, how it’s evolved, and discover some insider tips about visiting.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Our guest today is Chris Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises - a small ship cruise line that focuses on sailing vessels… yes.. With actual sails!  Imagine yourself on deck of one of these magical ships, pulling out of port, the 1492 Conquest of Paradise song playing, sails unrolling, and heading into the open ocean. What nostalgia for a time gone by! Except on Windstar you’re also met with every modern comfort, fabulous destinations like Tahiti, The Black Sea, Iceland, and the Mediterranean, and an in depth exploration of the world.  Chris and I chat about the special bonds formed between guests and crew members on small ship sailings, the role of communities in sustainability, and the massive operation behind a sailing vessel this large.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today we’re chatting about Panama and all its beauty, diversity, culture, and history.  Believe it or not this small country has shaped the course of our entire planet. Scientists say that the formation of the isthmus is what changed the climate to allow ideal conditions for humans to thrive, and today that same isthmus boats a certain canal that has a lot to do with making your daily Amazon purchases happen!  Now as for travel - Panama is your oyster. Whether you’re coming for surfing, for cloud forests, to learn about indigenous culture, or for history - Panama can provide it all.   We have two guests today - Jonathan Zelcer, Panamanian and expert in luxury travel to Panama, and Ben Loomis, owner of famed beach resort Isla Palenque.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today we travel to a very special corner of the world, called Gleneagles. Set amongst lush, green, Scottish countryside in the shadow of Stirling Castle, Gleneagles drips with history, elegance, and flair. Over the last one hundred years this estate has hosted Presidents, Lords, celebrities, Wimbledon champs, and of course the everyday luxury traveler like you and me. Whether you are visiting for rest and relaxation, to experience the falconry and gundog school, or to dine at the best restaurant in Scotland - Gleneagles has something for you.  Our guest today is Conor O’Leary, Managing Director of all of Gleneagles’ operations across Scotland. He tells us about the beautiful countryside, some fun stories of past guests, and what you can expect from a visit.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today we’re exploring the country of Australia, famous for its icons like the Sydney Opera House, the Outback, and the Great Barrier Reef. The dazzling landscape is fit for the movies from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. To try to understand the country at a deeper level, we have three guests with us today. My friend and partner in the region, Stuart Rigg - an expert in luxury Australia itineraries, Charlie Carlow - the owner of the fabulous Wild Bush Luxury Lodges, and Clarence Slockee a musician, dancer, well known horticulturist, sometimes television show host, and of course proud Aboriginal man. We discuss everything from off the beaten path destinations, to indigenous species, to the uniquely Australian concept of “mateship.” Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

I’m excited to uncover the Puglia region of Italy with you today.  While visiting Puglia, you might feel like you’re stepping back into the Italy seen in the movies of the 50s and 60s. You’ll stroll through charming villages, meet locals who still do things the traditional way, sample ultra fresh burrata cheese and olive oil, and of course enjoy the gorgeous waters of the Adriatic. Our guest today is Aldo Melpignano, owner and managing director of the famed Borgo Egnazia hotel and several other spots in his family’s collection. Aldo and I discuss how finding these hidden gems of Italy is not only exciting, but also is an important link in promoting sustainable tourism. We also hear all about his gorgeous property, some celebrity stories, and insider tips as well. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

In this engaging conversation, Marc Telio, Founder and CEO of Entree Destinations, shares his nearly 30 years of expertise exploring Canada's diverse landscapes and cultures. He discusses honoring First Nations cultures and the vibrant culinary scene, including a tasty rivalry between Montreal and New York bagels. Listeners are taken on a journey through breathtaking wilderness, unique winter experiences, and the value of authentic connections with Indigenous tourism, showcasing the emotional richness of Canadian travel.

My guest today is Audeline Witjaksono, the Regional Director for several Aman hotels in Asia, as well as GM of Amanpulo in the Philippines. Just speaking with Audeline and soaking up the vibes from her location calmed me and brought my always on the go energy down a couple notches… so imagine actually being there! Amanpulo is set on a far flung private island, nestled in the western part of the Philippines, yet it is surprisingly easy to get to from Manilla. And while you’d expect (and get!) powder fine sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and warm ocean breezes… you’ll also experience a deep sense of place, Filipino hospitality, adventure sports, wildlife, and more. Audeline and I chat about kite boarding, the culture of the Philippines, respecting nature, and of course the world class Aman service. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Here’s the inside scoop on this episode. In late 2021 I traveled to the Galapagos and thought it would be fun to try something new on the pod.  My goal was to capture the stories of locals, guides, and even some of the wildlife through sounds and live experiences.  So what you’re about to hear is a compilation of interviews, live sounds from our explorations, and hopefully a whole lotta inspiration!  We discuss what makes the Galapagos utterly unique in the world, what it was like for some of our guides to grow up without electricity, cross the Pacific in a canoe, and bike ride across South America. But most importantly - these special folks share the lessons they hope visitors to these enchanted islands walk away with. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn