Luxury Travel Insider Sarah Groen
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- Society & Culture
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Do you love travel? Are you always searching for the absolute best experiences?
Join us each week for an insightful chat with some of luxury travel’s most iconic people. We’ll interview travel experts like Robert Bowe who has been part of the guest experience at Ashford Castle for 33 years; Jamie Gaymer, the lead conservation manager at an ultra-luxe safari lodge; or the Owners and General Managers of some of the world’s top hotels like Amangiri, Canaves Oia, and Zannier Hotels.
You’ll leave each episode with an Insider appreciation for new destinations, luxury travel, and all the heart that goes into creating these magical experiences.
Luxury Travel Insider is hosted by Sarah Groen, an expert in luxury travel. Sarah has traveled to 100 countries and all 7 continents, is a contributing travel columnist for CEO World Magazine, and is the owner of Bell & Bly Travel, a top travel advising firm working with executives and entrepreneurs.
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Castello Di Vicarello | Owner, Neri Baccheschi Berti: Love at First Sight in Tuscany
I’m excited for you to join me today in the southern part of Tuscany, an area called Maremma, and one we haven’t yet explored on the show. Here you’ll find sun-kissed olive groves, pristine stretches of coastline, and of course, gorgeous wines.
We’re settling in at the stunning Castello di Vicarello for a chat with my friend, and the owner, Neri Baccheschi Berti who in a surprising turn of events, tells us how he was actually born inside the castle during its renovation!
Neri and I chat about his family, how they came to fall in love with this piece of history, and the path that took them from fashion and creativity to becoming accidental hoteliers. We also dive into ancient Italian rivalries, Tuscan cuisine, and learning how to slow down and take it all in.
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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Azores & Madeira | Expert Panel: A Unique Expression of Portuguese Culture
Today we’re venturing into the Atlantic, making stops on the islands of The Azores and Madeira. Imagine stunning verdant volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastal cliffs, and temperate weather all year round. Don’t forget incredible food and a unique expression of Portuguese culture.
My guests today are Filipe Fraga from Madeira and Beatriz Sousa from The Azores. We chat about the differences and commonalities between these two destinations, the unique environment, and the authentic experiences offered by each. If you’re looking for a unique destination in Europe, either of these destinations will be sure to impress.
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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AmaWaterways | President, Rudi Schreiner: The Past and Future of River Cruising
My guest today is Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and President of AmaWaterways. AMA has been sharing its passion for river cruising around the world for more than 20 years, but Rudi has a deep history going back to the very beginnings of this type of travel.
Rudi shares with us the history of river cruising, his fascinating personal history, some entrepreneurial stories from the early days of AMA, and more.
We also hear about his favorite stops along some of the world’s most famous waterways, behind the scenes details about the ships, and about some up and coming new destinations as well.
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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French Polynesia | Raphael Bernard: Getting to the Heart of Tahiti
Today we’re headed to experience a tapestry of turquoise lagoons, emerald-green islands, and coral-fringed shores.
Whether you’re diving with sharks, climbing the ridge of a volcanic peak, or relaxing in your overwater bungalow - French Polynesia, or Tahiti for short - is sure to be nothing short of spectacular.
We have a fun show for you today, with my friend and partner in the region, Raphael Bernard. Raphael has lived on a couple different islands in the archipelago and eats and breathes it every day. We talk about everything from the local stereotypes of each island, to the more off the beaten path ways to visit, to the food, and the unique culture.
I hope you enjoy this tropical episode of Luxury Travel Insider.
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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In The Now | On The Ground in Ecuador, A Must Listen
The date of recording for today’s show is February 7th, 2024. That’s important because our show today is very topical and time sensitive.
As some of you may know there has been a crackdown on organized crime and drug trade in Ecuador over the past month. Sadly for me and my friends and partners in the region, this crack down and the resulting sensationalization from the media has resulted in many visitors cancelling trips to this beautiful country… at exactly the time that Ecuadorians need visitors the most.
Joining me today are Stephanie Bonam Carter, the owner of Galapagos Safari Camp, Fernando Polanco Plaza, the owner of Hacienda Zuleta who you’ll recognize from past shows, and my friend Clark Kotula who is an expert in the region and works with top properties across Latin America.
We start the episode talking about the situation and the history, but please listen through to the parts where we discuss daily life in Ecuador, how things are just as they’ve always been, and all the positive things that are happening in the country.
I’m a bit emotional after recording this episode because I want you all to know that at the end of the day, travel, like life, is imperfect. You have to go to a place to experience it, to understand the nuances, and to know the heart of a people. It upsets me when the media portrays one side of a situation, thereby hurting locals, and in this case, some of my dear friends.
So please listen to this episode with an open heart and an open mind.
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania | Expert Panel: A Baltic Story of Freedom and Faith
Today we’re headed to the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. While all three countries are different in culture and in language, what they share is having borne witness to the same history and the courage to protect their individual identities through centuries of tumult.
This is a fascinating region of the world to visit, not only because of the history, but because of the unspoiled coastlines and forests, charming traditions, and world class cities.
My guests today are Greg Tepper, our partner in the region, and Grigorijs Salnits, one of our top guides in Latvia. We chat about everything from the emotional history of the 20th century, to over the top festivals, to foraging for mushrooms.
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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Customer Reviews
Wanderlust
Awesome podcast for the traveler or aspiring tourist! This is a little more business-oriented than some of the other travel podcasts out there. But Sarah makes it so fun & fascinating to learn about the industry and its many characters. Can’t wait to see where she takes us next!
What luxury?
luxury? Hardly. Host is a bit too giggly to listen to for more than 5-10
Always inspiring interviews
Very well conducted, in a personal way, I always feel like I am right there in the room. I have discovered many destinations, hoteliers and professionals of the tourism industry that motivate me in continuing in this industry with a purpose. Thank you Sarah.