RTE-Travel Talk Real Travel Experts

Join us on this exciting episode of RTE-Travel Talk as Ken welcomes special guest Christy Fitzharris, the owner and founder of Wheels Up Travel Company, for an insightful discussion on her recent adventures in the world of river cruising. Christy shares her firsthand experiences from ASTA's River Cruise Expo 2024 and provides an exclusive review of her recent voyage with Riverside Luxury Cruises.

The conversation delves into the highlights of the ASTA River Cruise Expo, where Christy had the opportunity to immerse herself in the latest trends and offerings in the river cruise industry. Discover the allure of Riverside, a new player in the market that caught Christy's attention, prompting her to choose them for her recent river cruise adventure.

As Christy elaborates on her decision to opt for Riverside, the discussion navigates through the key aspects of luxury cruising, exploring whether Riverside lives up to its name. Drawing comparisons with industry giants like AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises, Christy provides valuable insights into guest ratios, cabin accommodations, dining options, and the level of personalized service, including butler service.

Delve into a detailed analysis of excursion offerings, inclusions, itinerary lengths, and the availability of pre and post-land stays, shedding light on the unique selling points of each cruise line. Gain valuable insights into the guest demographics on each line, as well as the solo traveler offers and loyalty programs available.

In a candid comparison of price points, Christy offers practical tips for travelers looking to make informed decisions when choosing their ideal river cruise experience. As the episode concludes, Christy shares her top recommendations and insider tips for maximizing your river cruising adventure.

Don't miss out on this captivating discussion filled with insider insights and expert advice – tune in now and embark on a journey of discovery with RTE-Travel Talk!

Join RTE-Travel Talk Host Ken as he sits down with travel expert Maria Lindsey of Cruise & Travel Specialist for a review of her 16-day Azamara cruise to Australia and New Zealand. In this insightful discussion, Maria shares her experiences exploring both countries, including the highlights of their journey. From port-intensive excursions to onboard amenities, Maria provides valuable insights for anyone considering a luxury cruise in this region. Learn about the accommodations, dining options, entertainment, and more, as Maria offers her expert perspective on cruising with Azamara. If you're planning a trip Down Under, don't miss this informative discussion!

First of a new monthly series! Join us on this episode of Just The Facts as RTE-Travel Talk host Ken welcomes special guest Larry Jackson, a seasoned travel expert from Cruise Holidays of Viera, to explore the evolving landscape of premium cruising. In this insightful discussion, Ken and Larry delve into the recent shifts in the cruising industry and whether it's time for travelers to consider indulging in luxury cruises.

The conversation kicks off with reflections on post-COVID disappointments experienced by once-favorite cruise lines, prompting travelers to seek alternatives. Larry sheds light on the solution, highlighting the growing trend of accommodating fewer guests on luxury cruises, fostering a more intimate and exclusive experience.

Dispelling the notion that luxury is always pricey, the duo compares the amenities offered by luxury cruises with their contemporary counterparts, revealing surprising insights into the value proposition.

Drawing on real-world examples, Larry and Ken provide a snapshot comparison of pricing between Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, showcasing the affordability and benefits of luxury cruising, especially with Silversea's new "Essential Fares" offering. They offer sage advice on navigating the choice between contemporary and luxury cruises based on individual preferences and budget considerations.

As the episode draws to a close, Larry shares his contact information for viewers seeking personalized assistance and expert advice in planning their next cruise adventure. Stay tuned for the next segment of Just the Facts, where we'll explore how to choose your travel advisor wisely.

Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion on the allure of luxury cruises – tune in now and embark on a journey of discovery with Just the Facts!

In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, our host sits down with Daniel Hauptfeld, the Marketing Director for Katarina Line, to delve into the world of luxury travel and maritime excellence. Daniel sheds light on his pivotal role and responsibilities within the company, offering insights into the dynamic landscape of Katarina Line.

Discover the essence of Katarina Line, a leading name in the realm of private yacht travel experiences in Croatia. Learn about their diverse portfolio, spanning from captivating land tours to the unparalleled luxury of their six different classes of private yachts and sailing ships. As Daniel unfolds the company's offerings, it becomes evident that Katarina Line is not just a travel company – it's a legacy, deeply rooted in family values and a unique backstory that sets them apart.

Excitingly, Daniel unveils Katarina Line's vision for the future, including their collaboration with the esteemed Hilton brand to introduce the brand-new Keight hotel. This endeavor marks a significant milestone for Katarina Line as they expand their horizons and continue to redefine luxury hospitality.

Moreover, Daniel highlights Katarina Line's unwavering commitment to the community, particularly their heartfelt dedication to supporting children with Down syndrome. Through their initiatives and outreach programs, Katarina Line exemplifies the essence of corporate social responsibility, making a meaningful impact beyond the realm of travel.

Join us as we unravel the layers of excellence that define Katarina Line, from their exceptional services to their profound sense of social responsibility. Embark on a journey of discovery and luxury with Katarina Line – where every experience is crafted with passion and purpose.

Join RTE-Travel Talk Ken as he sits down with the Real Travel Expert, Ann-Marie Gaudet from Cruise Holidays Select, to delve into the enchanting world of AmaWaterways' Europe's Rivers and Castles itinerary. Ann-Marie considers this cruise the perfect choice for first-timers or those seeking an unforgettable one and done river cruise experience.

In this comprehensive review, Ann-Marie provides an insightful overview of AmaWaterways, renowned for offering some of the best river cruises in Europe. The focus then shifts to the mesmerizing Europe’s Rivers & Castles itinerary, which traverses the picturesque Main and Moselle rivers, as well as the captivating Upper Middle Rhine region, renowned for its stunning landscapes and historic castles.

Discover the allure of visiting majestic castles along the route and why AmaWaterways stands out as the top choice for your river cruise adventure. Ann_Marie weighs in with her opinion of where AmaWaterways fits as compared with other leading river cruise lines like Avalon Waterways and Scenic, and highlighting the why these three lines are her go to choice for her clients.

Families and travelers with mobility concerns will find valuable insights on the suitability of this itinerary, ensuring an inclusive experience for all passengers. Learn about the comprehensive inclusions with your fare, including a special mention from Ann-Marie who includes gratuities for her clients, pre and post-stay options, and the delightful Happy Hour onboard.

Don't miss the exclusive opportunity to cruise this spectacular itinerary with Ann-Marie herself, adding an extra layer of personalized service to your journey. And as the discussion draws to a close, Ann-Marie shares her final bits of advice to ensure your river cruise experience exceeds all expectations.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with AmaWaterways' Europe's Rivers and Castles, where every moment promises to be a cherished memory.

Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Barb Chamberlain, a seasoned traveler and representative of Direct Travel, to delve into her recent voyage aboard the newer luxury cruise line, Explora Journeys. In this insightful interview, Barb and Ken cover a range of topics, starting with an overview of what sets Explora Journeys apart in the world of cruising, including details about the exquisite "Explora I" and her luxurious amenities, plus the other ships coming soon

They also explore whether Explora Journeys truly lives up to its reputation with its unique take on the luxury experience, discussing ship statistics, dining options without additional fees, and the background and history of Explora Journeys.

Barb provides valuable insights into the all-inclusive nature of Explora Journeys, shedding light on the various staterooms and names for them such as "terraces" and "residences" available for guests. The conversation then turns to the technological advancements found onboard, as well as the diverse array of activities and excursions offered to passengers, along with pricing details.

For those considering a family vacation, Barb and Ken discuss whether Explora Journeys is a suitable choice and delve into the experience for solo cruisers and the demographic makeup of guests. Additionally, Barb shares some insider tips for booking Explora Journeys, including the availability of complimentary spa services and other onboard extras.

Finally, the interview wraps up with a discussion on reviews of Explora Journeys, offering potential travelers a comprehensive overview of what to expect from this top-tier luxury cruise experience. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, this conversation provides invaluable insights into the world of Explora Journeys.