"Travel Talk" featuring Edward Leos, publisher of The Hotel Guide

Edward Leos, publisher, The Hotel Guide

Your gateway to unforgettable adventures! For over 33 years, The Hotel Guide has been your trusted source for travel inspiration. Now, through exclusive interviews and insider tips, we bring you the best in luxury hotels, hidden gems, top destinations, wellness retreats, and travel trends. Whether you're planning a getaway or dreaming of your next adventure, we've got you covered. Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube—your next journey starts here! ✈️🌍

  1. 2D AGO

    INSIDE NYC's New Luxury Hotel Opening

    In this episode of Travel Talk, host Edward R. Leos sits down with Lucy Shulman, Director of Sales & Marketing for the upcoming Kimpton Ashbel New York – Park Avenue, to explore the strategy, vision, and leadership behind one of NYC’s most anticipated hotel openings. From pre-opening marketing and sales positioning to guest experience design and luxury traveler expectations, this conversation provides valuable insight into how modern boutique hotels are being built for the future. Whether you’re a hotel owner, hospitality leader, travel advisor, or passionate traveler, this episode offers a powerful look at where luxury and lifestyle hospitality are headed next. The vision behind Kimpton Ashbel New York How luxury boutique hotels prepare for opening day Sales & marketing strategy in competitive urban markets The evolving expectations of luxury travelers Why NYC remains a global hospitality leader Leadership lessons from the hotel industry Hotel owners & operatorsHospitality executives & GMsLuxury travel advisorsHotel sales & marketing leadersTravel entrepreneursHospitality students & enthusiasts Weekly conversations with global leaders shaping the future of luxury travel, boutique hotels, and hospitality leadership. Website: https://www.thehotelguide.comInstagram: @officialthehotelguideLinkedIn: Edward R. LeosYouTube: @thehotelguide Helping hotels compete on value — not price. #LuxuryHospitality #BoutiqueHotels #NewYorkHotels #TravelTalkPodcast #HotelLeadership #HotelMarketing #LuxuryTravel #HospitalityIndustry #FutureOfHospitality #HotelOpening #TheHotelGuide

    13 min
  2. FEB 12

    The Future of Luxury Hospitality is Being Built Now

    In this episode of Travel Talk, host Edward R. Leos, CEO & Publisher of The Hotel Guide, sits down with Deniz Dorbek, Founder of Regulus Collective, a global investment and advisory platform focused on lifestyle and luxury hospitality innovation. Together, they explore how the hospitality industry is evolving beyond traditional models — and why technology, wellness, and integrated lifestyle experiences are becoming essential to future success. From global hotel investment strategies to emerging technologies and the rise of longevity-focused travel experiences, this conversation offers powerful insights for hotel owners, operators, investors, and travel leaders looking to stay ahead. The vision behind Regulus Collective Why hospitality investment is shifting globally Emerging hotel technology trends shaping guest experiences Longevity, wellness, and biohacking in luxury travel How luxury and lifestyle hospitality are converging What hotel leaders must understand about the future Hotel owners • Hospitality executives • Luxury travel advisors • Investors • Entrepreneurs • Travel enthusiasts • Hospitality students Luxury hospitality insightsGlobal travel trendsLeadership conversationsHotel & travel innovation 👉 Subscribe to Travel Talk for weekly conversations with the leaders shaping the future of hospitality. Website: https://www.thehotelguide.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardleosInstagram: @officialthehotelguideYouTube: @thehotelguide Helping hotels compete on value — not price. #LuxuryHospitality #TravelPodcast #HotelInnovation #HospitalityLeadership #BoutiqueHotels #HotelInvestment #LuxuryTravel #FutureOfTravel #HotelTechnology #WellnessTravel #TravelTalkPodcast #TheHotelGuide

    20 min
  3. FEB 4

    EPISODE 119: "How to Book Luxury Hotels Smarter (Not Cheaper) | The Hotel Guide"

    Luxury travel isn’t about discounts—it’s about trust, relationships, and exceptional experiences .In this episode of Travel Talk, Edward R. Leos, CEO and Publisher of The Hotel Guide, shares a major announcement: The Hotel Guide’s new luxury booking partnership aligned with Boutique Travel Advisors. Edward explains why the traditional luxury booking model is broken, how curated travel restores value for guests and hotels, and how travelers can now book exceptional hotels worldwide with greater confidence and preferred benefits. This episode is for: Luxury travelers seeking better value (not cheaper rates)Hotel leaders focused on brand integrity Anyone tired of algorithm-driven travel decisions ⏱️ Episode Chapters00:00 – Why luxury travel booking needs to change01:45 – The problem with price-driven platforms04:10 – Why The Hotel Guide partnered with Boutique Travel Advisors07:15 – How travelers actually benefit10:40 – What this means for hotels and the industry12:45 – How to use the new luxury booking experience14:00 – The future of value-driven luxury travel🔑 Key Takeaways Luxury travel should be curated, not commoditized Discounts don’t equal value—experience does Trusted relationships improve outcomes for travelers and hotels Editorial authority + professional travel expertise creates confidence🔗 Explore the Partnership Start with the hotels we trust:👉 https://luxurytravelclubs.com/partners/thehotelguide 📌About The Hotel Guide Founded in 1993, The Hotel Guide is a luxury hospitality media brand showcasing exceptional hotels, destinations, and travel experiences worldwide—helping hotels compete on value, not price. 📲 Connect & Subscribe: https://www.thehotelguide.com Subscribe to Travel Talk for conversations shaping the future of travel Follow for luxury travel insights and hotel leadership perspectives luxury travel, luxury hotels, boutique travel advisors, hotel booking tips, luxury hotel booking, travel talk podcast, the hotel guide, luxury travel trends, hospitality leadership, value driven travel, curated travel, hotel industry insights

    5 min
  4. JAN 8

    EPISODE 116: "What Travelers Want in 2026"

    Luxury travel is changing — and the rules are no longer what they used to be. In this episode of Travel Talk, Edward Leos and Roxann Leos dive into the evolution of modern luxury travel, uncovering what today’s travelers truly value and where the industry is headed next. From experience-driven travel to the growing importance of authenticity, storytelling, and emotional connection, this conversation goes beyond destinations and into the mindset shaping high-end travel today. Whether you’re a luxury traveler, hospitality professional, destination marketer, or travel entrepreneur, this episode delivers insight you can actually use. 🎙️ In this episode, you’ll discover: Why experience now matters more than excess How luxury travel expectations are shifting What hospitality brands must understand to stay relevant The future of storytelling in travel and tourism If you’re passionate about meaningful travel and want to stay ahead of industry trends, Travel Talk brings you the conversations that matter. 👉 Subscribe for more insider conversations on luxury travel, hospitality, and destination storytelling. 👉 Like, comment, and share if you believe travel should be felt — not just seen. luxury travel, travel talk, modern luxury travel, future of travel, luxury travel trends, high end travel, hospitality industry, luxury hospitality, travel podcast, travel media, destination marketing, travel storytelling, luxury lifestyle, travel industry insights, experiential travel, premium travel, travel experts, travel conversation, travel leadership, luxury destinations

    18 min
  5. 12/18/2025

    EPISODE 115: "The Future of Luxury Travel | Semra Hunter, Founder of SAHARAÏ"

    Luxury travel is evolving — and the brands shaping the future are built on purpose, cultural integrity, and authentic connection.In this episode, we sit down with Semra Hunter, Founder of SAHARAÏ, to explore how conscious, culturally rooted travel is redefining what luxury truly means. Semra shares her journey of building a globally recognized travel brand while staying deeply connected to heritage, intention, and impact.🎙️ In this conversation, we discuss:• The new definition of luxury in today’s travel industry• Why purpose-driven brands are winning long-term• How cultural respect and authenticity elevate guest experiences• Lessons for founders, entrepreneurs, and creatives• The future of conscious and experiential travelWhether you’re a travel enthusiast, hospitality professional, or entrepreneur, this episode offers powerful insights you can apply beyond travel.👉 Subscribe for more conversations with industry leaders shaping the future of travel.⏱️ CHAPTERS (Boost Watch Time + SEO)00:00 – Why luxury travel is changing01:42 – Semra Hunter’s vision behind SAHARAÏ05:10 – Culture as the foundation of luxury09:28 – Purpose vs. marketing in brand building13:45 – Conscious travel and guest expectations18:30 – Leadership lessons for founders22:40 – The future of luxury travelluxury travel podcast, semra hunter, saharai, conscious travel, purpose driven brands, luxury travel trends, hospitality leadership, women in business, founder stories, travel entrepreneurship, experiential travel, the future of travel, luxury hospitality, travel industry insights

    17 min
  6. 12/15/2025

    EPISODE 114: "From Housekeeper to President"

    Join us for an inspiring episode of Travel Talk as we sit down with Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Casino Bristol, to explore her remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Brazil to leading one of Virginia’s most exciting hospitality and entertainment destinations. In this interview, Allie shares how her passion for hospitality began with a life-changing internship at Walt Disney World and evolved into a thriving career that took her across seven states and into the world of gaming. Her story highlights the power of perseverance, learning, and embracing every opportunity — no matter where you start. We also dive into the rapid growth of Hard Rock Casino Bristol, including:🎸 The property's first year successes and major milestones🏨 What makes Hard Rock Bristol’s hotel, entertainment venue, and gaming floor a must-visit🎰 How the team built a brand-new gaming market in Virginia🎤 Expanding national entertainment acts and plans for the year ahead🌍 Allie’s favorite travel destinations and her upcoming bucket-list trips Whether you're passionate about hospitality, travel, leadership, or simply love the Hard Rock brand, this episode delivers valuable insights and inspiration. How a Disney internship launched a global hospitality career The challenges & triumphs of opening a new casino in a new gaming market Why Bristol, VA is becoming a rising travel destination The importance of team culture, learning, and professional growth Allie’s travel philosophy: “I work to travel.” Offering 303 hotel rooms, nationally recognized entertainment acts, 24-hour dining, gaming, spa, indoor/outdoor pools, and year-round experiences, Hard Rock Casino Bristol is redefining hospitality in the region. Follow them on social media for upcoming shows, giveaways, and events. 👉 Hard Rock Casino Bristol – Facebook & Instagram👉 The Hotel Guide – thehotelguide.com👉 Subscribe for more Travel Talk episodes! If you enjoy stories of leadership, travel, and hospitality excellence, make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🌟 About Hard Rock Casino Bristol📲 Connect & Follow

    15 min
  7. 12/03/2025

    EPISODE 113: Wild Journey Inside the San Antonio Zoo

    Get ready for a high-energy conversation with Tim Morrow, the forward-thinking CEO of the San Antonio Zoo—one of the fastest-growing and most innovative zoological destinations in the United States. In this episode of Travel Talk with Edward Leos, we explore how the Zoo is redefining wildlife conservation, elevating family travel experiences, and creating unforgettable eco-tourism adventures in the heart of Texas. Tim shares insider stories, bold ideas, and the Zoo’s mission to protect species, inspire visitors, and transform the way people connect with wildlife. Whether you're planning a trip to San Antonio, passionate about conservation, or love powerful leadership stories, this episode is full of high-value insights and must-know travel tips. How the San Antonio Zoo became a national leader in conservation and guest experience Innovative wildlife and habitat projects shaping the future of zoological parks The Zoo’s approach to animal care, education, and environmental stewardship New attractions and immersive experiences for families, travelers, and nature lovers Tim Morrow’s leadership philosophy and vision for sustainable tourism Wildlife conservation & endangered species San Antonio travel guides and Texas attractions Family-friendly destinations & zoo adventures Eco-tourism and sustainable travel Leadership, innovation, and organizational transformation Discover how one of America’s most historic zoos is creating a dynamic, modern, conservation-focused experience that inspires millions.WATCH THE FULL EPISODE → Your next adventure starts here. 🔥 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:🐾 Perfect for Viewers Interested In:🎧 Tune In Now

    16 min

About

Your gateway to unforgettable adventures! For over 33 years, The Hotel Guide has been your trusted source for travel inspiration. Now, through exclusive interviews and insider tips, we bring you the best in luxury hotels, hidden gems, top destinations, wellness retreats, and travel trends. Whether you're planning a getaway or dreaming of your next adventure, we've got you covered. Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube—your next journey starts here! ✈️🌍