RTE-Travel Talk

Real Travel Experts
  • 5.0 (4)
  • LEISURE
  • UPDATED DAILY
RTE-Travel Talk

Our weekly show interviews real travel experts from around the United States and Canada. Check in with us from week to week for travel news, tips, destinations and reviews from some of the top flight travel agents in the country and travel influencers .

  1. 1D AGO

    How Travel Advisors Can Save Your Vacation

    In this episode, Ken sits down with Anne-Marie Gaudet, owner of Cruise Holidays of Metro East, to discuss five ways a expert travel advisor can save your vacation. Essential travel tips that can also apply to DIY vacationers. Whether you're booking a dream getaway or dealing with unexpected travel issues, these expert insights will help you avoid common mistakes, get the best value, and handle trip disruptions like a pro. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why having a knowledgeable travel advisor is more important than ever ✅ How to find the best value—it’s not just about the lowest price! ✅ The importance of staying informed on travel advisories and requirements ✅ Why an emergency contact and backup plan can be a game-changer ✅ The advantage of having an expert advocate when things go wrong 🌍 Plus, Important Europe Travel News! If you’re planning a trip to Europe, don’t miss the latest update on the Schengen Area EU Travel Authorization (ETIAS) and what it means for travelers. We break down the latest rollout delays and how this change could impact your upcoming European vacations.

    18 min

  2. 4D AGO

    Celebrity Cruises: What's new for 2025 &2026

    Have you experienced Celebrity Cruises? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Allan Brooks, Director of Sales for Canada at Celebrity Cruises, to dive into the world of premium cruising and what makes Celebrity one of the most innovative cruise lines in the industry. In This Episode, We Explore: 🌍 New Ships & Itineraries for 2025 & 2026 – Discover the latest in Celebrity’s fleet, including the Edge Series and the highly anticipated Celebrity Xcel. ⚓ The Edge Series – A New Way to Cruise – Learn what makes these ships stand out, from outward-facing designs to immersive resort decks and expansive glass walls. 🍽️ World-Class Dining & Michelin-Star Partnerships – Celebrity’s Michelin-starred chefs and innovative restaurants like Le Voyage redefine cruise dining. 🎭 Next-Level Entertainment & Theatrical Experiences – With cutting-edge LED immersive theaters and Vegas-quality performances, Celebrity Cruises offers an unparalleled entertainment experience. 🛳️ The Retreat – A Ship-Within-A-Ship Luxury Concept – Find out how suite guests enjoy VIP treatment with private dining, exclusive lounges, and priority services. 🌎 Celebrity’s New Grand Voyage & Exotic Destinations – A 110-night Grand Voyage and expanded itineraries in Europe, South America, and Asia make 2025 & 2026 more exciting than ever! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Perfect for Multi-Generational Travel – How Celebrity caters to families of all ages, from grandparents to grandkids, with options for every traveler. 💎 Exclusive Captain’s Club Perks & Status Matching – Learn how Celebrity Cruises rewards loyal guests and even matches loyalty status from other cruise lines and hotel brands. If you’ve ever considered a Celebrity Cruise or are curious about luxury cruising, this episode is packed with insider insights from one of the industry’s leading experts!

    25 min

  3. APR 17

    Golf Meets River Cruising: Top Options Compared

    alling all golf and travel enthusiasts! In this episode of RTE Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Laura Dodson from Cruise and Travel Specialists to discuss how you can combine your love for river cruising and golf. 🌟 Highlights of This Episode: Learn about AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna and its Danube golf cruise with up to five rounds of golf. Discover Uniworld’s SS Bon Voyage and its Bordeaux itinerary with two stunning golf courses. Insights into the seamless golf experience, including luxury transport, course access, and more. Practical tips for traveling with your golf clubs and the importance of a trusted travel advisor. Opportunities for non-golfers to enjoy culture-rich excursions in every port.

    19 min

  4. APR 14

    Choosing the Most Scenic Europe River Cruises

    Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with river cruise expert Shari Marsh of Cruise Holidays Land and Sea to answer the burning question: Which European river offers the most breathtaking views? If you're dreaming of a luxurious, stress-free journey through Europe’s most picturesque landscapes, this episode is for you! Shari shares her expert insights on what makes each river cruise unique, what first-time river cruisers should consider, and how to choose the best itinerary based on scenery, history, and cultural experiences. 🚢✨ 🚢 Which river is right for you? ✅ Danube River – A dream for history buffs, music lovers & those enchanted by Vienna & Budapest! ✅ Rhine River – Fairy-tale castles, medieval villages & breathtaking Rhine Gorge! ✅ Rhone River – A Van Gogh painting brought to life with stunning landscapes & fine wine! ✅ Seine River – The charm of Paris, Normandy’s historic beaches & French countryside! ✅ Douro River – Portugal’s wine country & incredible rolling hills – the most scenic of all? Shari also covers land extensions to Lucerne, Milan, Lake Como, and more, plus which river cruise lines—like AmaWaterways, Uniworld, Viking, and Avalon—offer the best experience based on your travel style!

    26 min

  5. APR 9

    Just the facts: ETAS and Schengen Visas

    In this informative episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken is joined by Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to discuss two important updates for international travelers: the Schengen Area's new ETIAS system and the United Kingdom's ETA requirements. Larry breaks down what travelers need to know about the ETIAS, a new electronic travel authorization required for entry into participating European countries, and its ever-evolving timeline for implementation. The conversation also covers the UK's ETA, a similar authorization system already in effect and essential for anyone planning travel to or through the UK in 2025. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first international trip, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate these upcoming changes.

    10 min

  6. MAR 7

    Choosing a Mississippi River Cruise. Comparing Viking Mississippi & American Cruise Lines

    Thinking about cruising the mighty Mississippi or exploring destinations closer to home? Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Chris and Tracy Archer of Good Life Travel Group to compare American Cruise Lines and Viking River Cruises on the Mississippi. In this in-depth discussion, we break down the key differences between these two cruise lines, including: ✅ Itineraries & Destinations – Where can you sail beyond the Mississippi? ✅ Ship Styles & Accommodations – Modern luxury vs. classic charm ✅ Onboard Experience – What’s included, from dining to entertainment ✅ Excursions & Enrichment – The role of onboard historians and immersive shore visits ✅ Budget & Value – Which cruise gives you the best bang for your buck? American Cruise Lines offers a more extensive selection of U.S. river cruises, with options beyond the Mississippi, including the Columbia & Snake Rivers, the Great Lakes, and the Eastern Seaboard. Viking, on the other hand, brings its signature sleek Scandinavian design and premium experience to a single ship on the Mississippi. So, which one is right for you?

    24 min

  7. MAR 7

    Cruise Line Formal Nights: Are They Still a Thing?

    Do cruise lines still have formal nights, or is it a thing of the past? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel to explore the best cruise lines for formal nights, what to expect, and whether you should pack that tux or cocktail dress. 💡 Topics Covered: ✅ Which cruise lines still have formal nights (Holland America, Celebrity, Princess, MSC, Royal Caribbean & more) ✅ Options for those who prefer not to dress up ✅ How luxury lines like Seabourn, Regent, and Oceania approach formal attire ✅ The evolving dress codes on cruise ships and how to pack smart ✅ Can you rent formalwear on board? (Yes, on some lines!) ✅ River Cruises: Do they have formal nights? Whether you love dressing up or prefer a more relaxed approach, there’s a cruise line for everyone! Don’t let outdated internet advice mislead you—get insider travel tips from a real expert in this episode!

    18 min

  8. MAR 7

    Five Things That Make Disney Cruises Magical

    What makes Disney Cruise Line so special? In this episode of Just the Facts on RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with travel expert Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to discuss five (or maybe more!) unique things that set Disney Cruises apart. From magical embarkation moments and incredible themed nights to world-class dining and exclusive entertainment, we’ll reveal why Disney Cruise Line is beloved by both kids and the young at heart. 🏴‍☠️ Ever heard of Pirate Night? It’s a Disney Cruise tradition complete with themed dining, live entertainment, and an epic fireworks display at sea—something NO other cruise line offers! And speaking of magic, have you experienced the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique transformation for young princesses and pirates? Plus, we'll dive into Disney's rotational dining system, where guests enjoy different themed restaurants each night with the same dedicated serving staff, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience. 🌴 And let’s not forget Disney’s private islands! Castaway Cay and the newly introduced Lookout Cay offer pristine beaches, water activities, and even an adults-only retreat. We also highlight the seamless and stress-free embarkation and disembarkation process that Disney has perfected, ensuring every guest enjoys a smooth and hassle-free experience from start to finish. 🚢 Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan or considering your first Disney cruise, this video will give you the inside scoop on why so many travelers return to Disney Cruise Line again and again.

    17 min
See All (196)

    Ratings & Reviews

    5
    out of 5
    4 Ratings

    About

    Our weekly show interviews real travel experts from around the United States and Canada. Check in with us from week to week for travel news, tips, destinations and reviews from some of the top flight travel agents in the country and travel influencers .

    Information

    • Creator
      Real Travel Experts
    • Years Active
      2021 - 2025
    • Episodes
      196
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © All rights reserved
    • Show Website
      RTE-Travel Talk

    You Might Also Like

    Content Restricted

    This episode can’t be played on the web in your country or region.

    To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

    Stay up to date with this show

    Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
    Select a country or region

    Africa, Middle East, and India

    Asia Pacific

    Europe

    Latin America and the Caribbean

    The United States and Canada