The Luxury Travelers Podcast

Naples Zoo - Website

Tim Tetzlaff - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

As Naples Zoo's Director of Conservation, Tim Tetzlaff coordinates Naples Zoo’s field conservation efforts, fully funding the annual salaries of twenty-seven field staff in seven countries. His other leadership roles include Chair of the Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group since 2018 - and Naples Zoo serves as the international headquarters of this global consortium. He is on the Board of Directors for the Giraffe Conservation Foundation and is President of the Florida Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Tetzlaff previously served on various conservation-oriented committees for the International Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), including being a member of one of their key international delegations.

Ep 34 - The Chef Who Created The First Cooking School At Sea with Kathryn Kelly

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

02/05/25 • 29 min

Welcome back to the Luxury Travelers podcast! Today, we’re excited to have Chef Kathryn Kelly, the "conceptual architect" behind Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Culinary Enrichment Program. Chef Kelly has earned recognition for her innovative approach, transforming onboard culinary experiences with hands-on cooking schools, chef-led market tours, and exclusive chef tables. In today’s episode, we’ll explore how this program has evolved, dive into the unique culinary destinations that inspire it, and hear about Kathryn’s inspiring career transformation—from public health to pursuing her lifelong passion for cooking. Join us as we discuss the art of culinary education and how Oceania Cruises sets the standard for immersive dining experiences at sea.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:16] Kathryn was named Conceptual Architect of the Culinary Enrichment Program by Forbes
[5:20] Discussion of the genesis of the culinary program
[8:56] What is new in the cooking schools in Regent and Oceania Cruises and the 47 chef-led tours for 2025
[16:19] Kathryn shares her career change before going to culinary school
[20:33] The art of the culinary at Oceania and the financial investment in culinary

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Chef Kathryn Kelly has played a pivotal role in shaping Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises' culinary enrichment program, earning recognition as its "conceptual architect." The program has evolved from hands-on cooking schools to include chef-led market tours and exclusive chef tables, offering guests immersive food experiences worldwide.
As seen in Chef Kelly’s passion for exploring local food traditions, travel plays a crucial role in culinary education. Destinations like Istanbul and Nice serve as vibrant culinary hubs where guests experience the intersection of historical spice routes, regional ingredients, and local cooking techniques. Through these experiences, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for food culture worldwide.
Oceania Cruises has invested significantly in its culinary programs, focusing on the quality of food served onboard and enriching the guests' culinary experiences. This commitment is reflected in the ship's state-of-the-art culinary centers and the company's ongoing efforts to offer exceptional culinary enrichment programs for guests and staff alike.

RESOURCES:

Oceania Cruises - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

CHEF KATHRYN KELLY

Executive Chef & Director of Culinary Enrichment, Chef Kathryn Kelly, has led Oceania Cruises’ Culinary Center since 2011, designing over 100 unique classes and chef-led Culinary Discovery ToursTM across 40+ destinations. Collaborating with Master Chef Jacques Pépin, she ensures Oceania’s hands-on cooking schools blend enrichment, technique, and global culinary exploration. A Johns Hopkins-trained epidemiologist with a background in healthcare, she pursued her culinary passion later in life, graduating with honors from The Culinary Institute of America. Chef Kelly splits her time between Amelia Island and Austin, enjoying golf and cooking with her grandchildren.

Luxury Travel, Oceania Cruises, Culinary Enrichment, Chef Kathryn Kelly, Culinary Experience, Regent Seven Seas, Chef-Led Market Tours, Cooking Schools, Global Cuisine, Authentic Culinary, Food Culture, Culinary Education, Career Transformation, Travel and Food, Fine Dining

Ep 33 - Tauck: A Century of Luxury Travel with Steve Spivak

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

01/22/25 • 29 min

Welcome back to the Luxury Travelers podcast! I’m your host, Rodney George, and today, we’re thrilled to welcome Steve Spivak, Vice President of Global Sales and Reservations for Tauck, as we celebrate their remarkable 100th anniversary. Tauck has redefined luxury travel with its unique approach, blending personalized experiences, small-group journeys, and seamless logistics. Tauck's commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction is unmatched, from exclusive after-hours access to iconic landmarks to all-inclusive river cruises with spacious accommodations. Join us as Steve shares the inspiring history of this family-led company, insights into their future focus, and his favorite Tauck experience.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:20] Steve shares the history of Tauck, celebrating its 100th anniversary
[4:34] Tauck is a way of traveling
[7:30] Discussion of destinations under the branded house of Tauck
[10:04] Steve names the differences between a Tauck river cruise compared to others
[15:33] Steve discusses Tauck's focus on the future
[23:15] Steve reveals his favorite experience on Tauck’s ships

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Now celebrating its 100th anniversary, Tauck thrives on a commitment to innovation, guest satisfaction, and family-driven leadership. The fourth generation brings modern perspectives, such as sustainability and technological integration, while preserving the core values established in 1925.
Tauck emphasizes creating personal and unique experiences, such as exclusive after-hours access to iconic sites and empowering tour directors to customize trips for guests. The approach prioritizes small groups, seamless travel logistics, and all-inclusive pricing for worry-free travel.
Tauck’s river cruises stand out because they limit guest numbers to ensure spacious accommodations, intimate experiences, and greater immersion in destinations. Every aspect, from fine dining to excursions, is included, making luxury travel accessible and stress-free.

RESOURCES:

Tauck River Cruises - Website

Steve Spivak - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Steve Spivak is Vice President of Global Sales and Reservations for Tauck. In this role, Spivak leads the worldwide sales effort across all of Tauck’s global markets and oversees the operation of Tauck’s Reservations and Guest Relations departments.

Before joining Tauck, Steve spent four years with Loews Hotels as Vice President of Global Sales. Before joining Loews, Steve spent eight years with Starwood Hotels and Resorts in various US sales and marketing leadership positions.

An avid traveler himself, Steve has personally traveled on 20 Tauck Tours and Cruises and especially enjoys exploring the world with his wife, Elizabeth and three kids on Tauck Bridges.

Luxury Travel, Tauck River Cruises, TauckLuxury, Travelers, Avalon Waterways, River Cruising, Luxury Travel, River Cruises, Wine Lover Cruises, Active Discovery, Cultural Experiences, Scenic Views, France, Bordeaux, Rhine, Danube, Christmas Markets, Wine Tasting, Culinary Exploration, Luxury Travel Tips cruises, travel tips, rodney george, luxury travel, luxury vacations

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

Ep 32- Luxury Travel: Cruise on Avalon Waterways with Richard Hickey

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

01/15/25 • 28 min

Today, we’re diving into luxury travel insights on cruise experiences as Richard Hickey from Avalon Waterways unveils the elevated world of river cruising. Avalon redefines the experience with its relaxed luxury travel style, intimate ships, and exceptional crew, ensuring guests feel like family. From flexible dining to themed cruises like wine lovers and Christmas markets, Avalon offers something for every luxury traveler. Whether exploring the wine regions of Bordeaux or immersing yourself in French culture, their innovative approach promises an unforgettable, indulgent journey.

IN THIS EPISODE: [1:37] Richard outlines the history of Avalon Waterways and awards for River Cruising with suites having beds face the window

[6:07] River Cruise and land excursion opportunities

[8:45] Richard describes the active and discovery cruise

[17:40 Dining and overnight experiences and festive cruise

[23:24] Cruise the rivers for 9 to 22 days

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Avalon Waterways emphasizes guest comfort with innovations like the Panorama Suite’s open-air balcony and bed-facing river views, offering an enhanced experience compared to traditional balcony designs. This also allows for more spacious staterooms and luxurious amenities for luxury travel.

The Avalon Choice program provides guests with diverse excursion options, including classic sightseeing, active experiences (biking and kayaking), and discovery activities (like cooking and painting classes).

These options ensure personalized, enriching experiences without additional charges for most excursions. Avalon offers diverse themed cruises such as wine-lover voyages, history explorations, Christmas market tours, and extended itineraries that span multiple rivers or countries, catering to various traveler preferences and interests.

RESOURCES:

Globus and Cosmos - Website

Richard Hickey - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Richard is a 36-year industry veteran who has held various sales positions with some of the top travel companies. Throughout his career, he has worked in both inside and outside sales roles for NCL, Disney, and Oceania. Additionally, He has successfully managed both national and key accounts for Club Med, MSC, and Scenic. Currently, I hold the position of Senior Director of Key Accounts with the Globus Family of Brands.

Luxury Traveler, Avalon Waterways, River Cruising, Luxury Travel, River Cruises, Wine Lover Cruises, Active Discovery, Cultural Experiences, Scenic Views, France, Bordeaux, Rhine, Danube, Christmas Markets, Wine Tasting, Culinary Exploration, Rodney George, Travel Tips, travel industry insights, luxury expedition cruises, luxury travel, luxury, travel, adventure, cruise

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

Ep 31 - Exploring the World with A&K Luxury Expedition Cruises and Oscar Dunn

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

01/08/25 • 31 min

Today, we’re joined by Oscar Dunn, the Vice President of Expedition Cruise Sales at Abercrombie & Kent. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of luxury expedition travel, where Abercrombie & Kent stands out by offering intimate, personalized adventures to some of the most incredible destinations on the planet. From Antarctica's icy waters to the Galapagos' stunning wildlife, Oscar shares how Abercrombie & Kent curates unique, high-end experiences beyond traditional cruises. We’ll explore the magic of small-group explorations, how A&K brings the best of local culture to each journey, and why an expedition with them feels like no other cruise.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:16] Discussion of travel and expeditions worldwide
[4:41] Oscar explains how Abercrombie and Kent is more than a cruise line
[7:09] A&K uses the luxury ships from Ponant with the A&K experience
[13:14] Expeditions to Antarctica, the Drake Passage, the Galapagos, Japan, Bali and Australia
[17:57] Oscar explains how you can do an expedition in Japan and Italy
[20:49] A typical day on an expedition cruise
[27:02] Oscars recommendations for expedition destinations

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Galapagos offers a unique and awe-inspiring expedition wildlife experience on land and underwater. With animals that are unafraid of humans, visitors can encounter rare species up close. Diving in the Galapagos is just as incredible as exploring on land, with experiences like swimming with hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and endemic species you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The destination's untouched beauty and abundant wildlife make it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
Unlike traditional cruise lines, Abercrombie & Kent is a unique tour operator that offers exclusive, high-end expedition experiences by chartering entire ships. With over 35 years of experience and a world-class expedition team, A&K provides personalized and local experiences through its destination management companies. This allows travel to familiar destinations like Japan or Italy in a whole new way, offering private yacht experiences and custom-designed adventures that showcase the world through the distinctive A&K lens.
Abercrombie & Kent offers deeply immersive, small-group experiences that allow travelers to engage with local cultures in ways money can't easily buy. In Italy, for example, guests can join culinary expeditions that include visiting local markets with a family matriarch and cooking in her home with authentic ingredients. Experience an in-depth opportunity that brings guests closer to the authentic local lifestyle, showcasing the true essence of the destination.

#cruises

RESOURCES:

Abercrombie & Kent - Website

Oscar Dunn - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Oscar Dunn is a seasoned expedition travel expert with lifelong professional and personal family background in the luxury travel and leisure industry. Over the past 10 years he has led expeditions in many exotic locations around the world including Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, the Arctic and Asia. An avid adventure seeker, Oscar is a scuba dive master and a licensed private pilot.

For the last two years he has been leading the Luxury Expedition cruises sales for Abercrombie & Kent.

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

Ep 30 - Travel Off the Eaten Path with Traveling Spoon and Aashi Vel

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

01/01/25 • 27 min

In this episode, Rodney George is joined by Aashi Vel, the visionary founder and CEO of Traveling Spoon. Aashi and her team are revolutionizing the travel industry by connecting travelers with authentic, in-home culinary experiences worldwide. Unsurprisingly, publications like Forbes have dubbed Traveling Spoon the 'future of culinary tourism – a remarkable achievement. Finally, we'll delve into Aashi's inspiring journey, explore the magic of experiencing a different culture through the lens of its cuisine, and discover how Traveling Spoon is empowering local communities while creating unforgettable memories for travelers.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:36] Aashi described the catalyst for her business
[5:08] How Traveling Spoon grew to be featured in Forbes Magazine and the experience of dining in someone's home
[10:54] Aashi describes the expanse of the countries they cover, and she shares experiences from host families and members
[19:11] Travel advisors and national magazines recommend the Traveling Spoon to clients
[22:14] Your hosts are the best home cooks around the world

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Traveling Spoon operates in 70+ countries and 230+ cities, connecting travelers with in-home cooking experiences hosted by residents, including many women who are now micro-entrepreneurs
Traveling Spoon offers unique and memorable travel experiences, fostering lasting connections through in-home dining with locals and providing a more profound cultural immersion than traditional tourism. With top destinations like Japan, Bali, Italy, Mexico, and Greece, Traveling Spoon enables families to create lasting memories by sharing meals and learning culinary traditions within local homes, offering a more authentic and enriching travel experience.
Traveling Spoon, recognized by Forbes as the "future of culinary tourism," connects travelers with authentic in-home dining experiences worldwide, fostering cultural immersion and empowering local communities and hosts.

RESOURCES:

Traveling Spoon - Website

Aashi Vel - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Aashi is a food and travel enthusiast who is passionate about creative problem-solving, product innovation, and foraging. An industrial designer and patent holder, Aashi has designed several award-winning products. She is a magna cum laude graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design and received her MBA from UC Berkeley.

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

Ep 29 - Exploring the World With Lindblad Expeditions and Rachel Woodward | Luxury Cruises & Expeditions

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

12/26/24 • 25 min

In this episode, Rodney is joined by Rachel Woodward, who brings her extensive expertise in luxury and expedition cruising. Together, they dive into some of the most sought-after travel destinations and experiences, from the upcoming solar eclipse in Iceland in 2026 to exploring the remote beauty of Greenland. Rachel also highlights the Galapagos as the perfect introduction to expedition travel, offering shorter voyages and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Tune in as they discuss how Lindblad’s exclusive expeditions are redefining travel, including exciting opportunities for multi-generational family vacations, all while navigating some of the world’s most pristine and awe-inspiring destinations.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:00] Rachel describes their ships and the places in the Arctic they travel
[6:35] Discussion about the northern lights and seeing the solar eclipse in Iceland in August 2026
[9:07] See the Galapagos, snorkel with the animals, and visit Antarctica.
[12:55] Leave for Alaska from the States, not Vancouver, avoiding immigration
[17:05] Rachel talks about experiencing the ship from the helm and Greenland becoming a most popular destination
[21:55] Book your multi-gen family vacations now with dedicated kids' programming

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A unique opportunity for bucket-list for expeditions and travelers is the upcoming solar eclipse in Iceland on August 12, 2026, with exclusive trips aboard the National Geographic Explorer and Endurance. This rare event, combined with the limited number of operators offering such experiences, generates significant interest.
Next year, with two new vessels, the company will double its occupancy in the Galapagos, offering shorter, year-round voyages. This is an ideal entry point for expedition travel, especially for North American guests. Flexible trip durations (4, 5, or 7 nights) allow travelers to combine voyages with Machu Picchu land packages, including the iconic Hiram Bingham train, for a unique experience.
Greenland offers untouched landscapes and rich cultural experiences, making it a unique destination for those who think they've seen it all. While an airport in Nuuk will increase land tourism, the best way to explore its remote beauty is via expedition cruises, with highlights like Ilulissat's icebergs and authentic Inuit community experiences.

RESOURCES:

Lindblad Expedition - Website

Rachel Woodward - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Rachel Woodward has a strong background in luxury and expedition cruising that supports her role in helping to showcase Lindblad’s unique offerings and leadership within the expedition space to travel advisors. Woodward most recently served as senior director of expedition sales in North America at Silversea Cruises for 10 years and spent nearly eight years in various roles at Crystal Cruises. In her role, she will focus on sharing Lindblad’s pioneering heritage, modern and purpose-built fleet, and industry-leading expertise and field staff.

Expeditions, Rodney George, Travel and Tips, adventure, exploration,

Ep 28 - Breaking the Ice: PONANT’s Le Commandant Charcot and the New Era of Polar Exploration

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

12/18/24 • 28 min

In this episode, Rodney is joined by Ellen McIlvaine, Vice President of the Americas for Ponant Exploration Travel, to discuss the epitome of luxury and exploration. Together, they dive into the world-class innovations of Le Commandant Charcot, Ponant's groundbreaking icebreaker-class vessel, offering unparalleled access to remote regions like the Arctic and the North Pole. Ellen shares insights into the ship's luxurious accommodations and its role as a scientific research platform. She also shares their partnership with Paul Gauguin Tours in the French Polynesia Islands. Tune in for an inspiring journey that blends luxury, discovery, and adventure.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:30] Ellen introduces Le Commandant Charcot, Ponant's world-class, luxury icebreaker vessel redefining exploration.
[4:55] Discover the incredible destinations and experiences awaiting travelers aboard this groundbreaking ship.
[13:31] Learn how Le Commandant Charcot is a platform for cutting-edge scientific research with onboard experts.
[15:27] Explore the ship’s opulent accommodations designed for comfort and sophistication in the most remote regions.
[19:39] Ellen highlights the partnership with Paul Gauguin Tours, offering unforgettable journeys in French Polynesia.
[24:32] Get a sneak peek into Ponant’s exciting plans and innovations in luxury exploration travel.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Le Commandant Charcot is the world's first icebreaker-class vessel designed for guest exploration in extreme environments like the Arctic and the geographic North Pole. It operates on electricity and liquefied natural gas, making it environmentally friendly while enabling silent travel to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Le Commandant Charcot goes beyond traditional boundaries by starting its journey where others turn back, venturing deep into the ice. This approach allows travelers to experience unique wildlife and landscapes in areas previously inaccessible, including the true 90 degrees North at the geographic North Pole.
Ponant enriches its voyages with themed collections and partnerships, including Smithsonian Journeys and the Explorers Club. It features expert speakers, real explorers, and immersive themes like culinary arts, music, and culture, offering travelers unique learning experiences.

RESOURCES:

Ellen McIlvaine - LinkedIn

Ponant - Website

Paul Gauguin Cruises - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Ellen McIlvaine leads PONANT and Paul Gauguin Cruises' sales team across the Americas, empowering trade advisors to deliver transformative travel experiences. Ellen has a background in adventure tourism and experience working onboard expedition cruises on all seven continents. She is based in Portland, Oregon.

Step into a new era of polar exploration with PONANT’s revolutionary Le Commandant Charcot. Ellen McIlvaine, Vice President of Sales for the Americas at PONANT, shares how this groundbreaking hybrid-electric luxury icebreaker is redefining adventure travel, enabling guests to venture where few have dreamed possible—all while setting a new standard for sustainability and elegance in the world’s most remote regions.

Ep 27 - The World of Luxury Golf Travel with Premier Golf's Bill Hogan

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

12/11/24 • 31 min

In today’s episode, Rodney is joined by Bill Hogan, Business Development Manager for Premier Golf. Bill shares insights into the world of luxury golf travel, discussing how Premier Golf curates unforgettable golfing experiences at some of the most prestigious courses worldwide. From exclusive access to major tournaments like the Masters and the Open Championship to unforgettable trips in destinations like Greece, South Africa, and Japan, this episode is packed with valuable information for golf enthusiasts looking to elevate their travels.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[1:50] Bill explains the services and offerings of Premier Golf.
[3:52] Bill shares the story of how he started his role.
[7:12] Bill outlines the process from your initial inquiry to the completion of your golf trip.
[11:25] Bill highlights emerging golf destinations in Greece.
[15:46] Bill discusses UK and Northern Ireland golf courses and insights into the Augusta National Golf Club.
[22:13] Bill discusses the unique experience of combining golf with a safari in South Africa and golfing in Japan and others worldwide.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Premier Golf specializes in creating customized golf packages, tours, and event experiences. Whether it’s attending major tournaments like the Masters or the Open Championship, planning a group trip to play in Ireland, or organizing a dream golf getaway to destinations like Pebble Beach and Napa Valley, Premier Golf handles all the arrangements, offering a seamless, one-stop solution for bucket-list golf trips.
Greece is emerging as a premier golf destination, highlighted by the stunning Costa Navarino resort. Spanning six miles, it features four world-class golf courses, luxury accommodations like Mandarin Oriental and W, over 40 restaurants, spas, and unique amenities such as an NBA basketball academy. Designed with meticulous attention to service and quality, Costa Navarino rivals the best golf resorts worldwide.
Premier Golf is an approved vendor for Open Championship tickets and hospitality, offering exclusive packages for the event. For the 2025 Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland—one of the world's top links courses—guests can enjoy a blend of tournament viewing and golf play. Packages typically include playing nearby courses like Portstewart or Ballyliffin, attending tournament rounds, and accessing a dedicated hospitality venue near the clubhouse.

RESOURCES:

Premier Golf - Website

Bill Hogan - Instagram

Bill Hogan - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY:

Bill Hogan is the Business Development Manager for Premier Golf and has been traveling the world with luxury-minded clients since 1988. He has played golf in nearly 60 countries and has been on over 1000 golf courses. His experience has landed him a spot on GOLF Magazine's World Top 100 ranking panel and also for Platinum Clubs of the World. It's been said he's "been there, played that!"

Ep 36 - Managing the World's Newest Uber-Luxury Cruise Ship with Neven Zdunic

The Luxury Travelers Podcast

03/05/25 • 28 min

In this episode of the Luxury Travelers Podcast, Rodney George welcomes Neven Zdunic, General Manager of the Explora II cruise ship from Explora Journeys. Together, they explore the luxurious offerings of this new vessel, highlighting its unique features, luxury hospitality, personalized services, and commitment to sustainability to bring you the experience of an ocean state of mind. Get an insider's perspective on what makes the Explora II stand out as a luxury cruise.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00] What is Explora Journeys?
(03:48) Neven's background in luxury hospitality
(06:18) Explora II Ship Design and Amenities
(09:15) Spacious luxury suites and cabins
(11:09) Unique approach to staff as "hosts"
(15:30) Diverse dining options and cuisine quality
(21:00) What is the role of the MSC Foundation in Explora II?
(22:10) Awards and accolades for Explora II
(26:25) Commitment to guest feedback and improvement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Luxury Experience: Explora II offers unparalleled guest space and personalized service, setting a new standard in luxury hospitality.
Culinary Excellence: The ship boasts a variety of dining options, each offering an exceptional culinary experience.
Sustainability Commitment: Explora Journeys is dedicated to reducing environmental impact, with future ships incorporating advanced sustainable technologies.

RESOURCES: