Luxury Travel Insider

Today, we're headed to the vibrant and historic city of Cartagena, Colombia. Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets lined with pastel buildings, enjoying the rhythm of cumbia music in the distance, or setting sail on turquoise waters to visit nearby islands. Joining me today are three incredible guests who know this city inside and out: my partner in the region, Cristina Consuegra and two of her expert guides, Maria Angelina and Fernando. Together, we dive into everything from Cartagena's must try food, to the influence of pirates on the region, to its booming art and fashion scene. Maria Angelina brings her perspective as an art curator and cultural heritage expert, while Fernando shares his deep knowledge as a historian specializing in the Colombian Caribbean Coast. Whether you're dreaming of a family getaway, a romantic escape, or an adventure filled with history and culture, this episode has something for you. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today, we're diving into the trends that are shaping the way travelers are exploring the world. I'm joined by my good friend Jonathan Epstein, the CEO of Celebrated Experiences, one of our partners for curating authentic and luxurious travel experiences in Europe. Jonathan and I discuss everything from the growing demand for slow, intentional travel to the resurgence of big family trips for milestone celebrations. We also touch on the evolving preferences of Millennials and Gen X travelers, the rise of VIP services, and why spending on comfort and quality time is a trend that's here to stay. This conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for your next trip - so when you're ready to start planning, I'd love to hear from you! My company Bell & Bly Travel has you covered with our award winning planning, insider knowledge, and VIP perks. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today we're setting off on a journey through the misty glens and rugged coastlines of Scotland—a land where history and legend intertwine. Joining me today are Christopher Sleigh and Euan House, two incredible storytellers and partners of ours in the region. Together, we unravel the history of the clan structure, explore the difference between a tartan and a kilt, take a walk through Scotland's local food markets, and of course talk a little bit about Outlander too. Whether you're drawn to the charm of the Highlands or the cultural pulse of its cities, this episode will inspire your next Scottish adventure! Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Sam Chamberlain, CEO of the Americas for Ponant Explorations, shares insights from the luxury expedition cruising world. He reveals the thrill of sailing in unique locations like the Northwest Passage and The North Pole, alongside enjoying exquisite French cuisine. Sam discusses the unmatched experience of traveling with a French crew and the cultural richness onboard, along with the excitement of Ponant's innovative itineraries, which even include dreams of space exploration. It's an eye-opening journey into what expedition cruising offers!

Join Filipe Fraga, a Madeira Island expert, and Beatriz Sousa, an authority on the Azores, as they unveil the hidden gems of these stunning Atlantic destinations. They discuss the breathtaking landscapes and rich local cultures, offering insights into unique travel experiences like whale watching and geothermal cooking. The conversation also dives into the historical connection with Winston Churchill and the culinary treasures that define each region. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, these islands promise unforgettable memories.

In a lively chat, professional travelers Kristen Sandvig and Hao Tang, who spend much of their year abroad, discuss their favorite travel memories and insider tips. They share hilarious stories from the Paris Olympics and quirky animal cafes in Japan. The trio dives into the highs and lows of travel, reflecting on the beauty of the Balearic Islands and the frustration of a disappointing luxury cruise. With insights on dream destinations and the importance of personal connections, this conversation captures the essence of luxury travel with plenty of laughs.

Though we may celebrate some of the same holidays across regions and countries, we all do them so differently. Understanding those differences can help us to understand each other, it adds beauty to the season, and might even give you a new destination for your wishlist. Chatting holiday traditions with me today are Cristina Consuegra, our partner in Colombia; Helmut Kugler, our partner in Germany, and Malik Fernando, the owner and MD of the Resplendent Ceylon properties in Sri Lanka! Helmut makes us nostalgic with scenes of Christmas Markets, Malik takes us back to being children, and Cristina shares how the many different cultures in Colombia have shaped their traditions. So my friends, I hope you have a joyous holiday season ahead, be safe, thank you, thank you for listening and for all your support, and please enjoy this festive episode of Luxury Travel Insider. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Though we may celebrate some of the same holidays across regions and countries, we all do them so differently. Understanding those differences can help us to understand each other, it adds beauty to the season, and might even give you a new destination for your wishlist. This year I'm chatting about holiday traditions with Samuel Dabinett, the GM of the famed Park Hyatt Sydney, Urban Axelsson from Swedish Lapland, and Gustavo Brana, from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Urban shares stories from the Arctic Circle, while Samuel and Gustavo tell us how it feels to celebrate Christmas and New Years in the middle of summer. We chat food, traditions, fireworks, and special experiences galore. So my friends, Salute, Cheers, and Skal. I hope you have a joyous holiday season ahead, be safe, thank you, thank you for listening and for all your support, and please enjoy this festive episode of Luxury Travel Insider. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

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. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn

Today we're discussing the country of Peru, and all the riches it has to offer. While many people think of Peru synonymously with Machu Picchu, the country is twice the size of Texas and has so much more to offer. After exploring the incredible culture of the Incas and modern day Peruvians living in the Andes, you can also visit the Amazon, enjoy some of the top restaurants in the world, and learn about any of the other FIFTY indegenous groups dotted across the country. My guest today is my partner in the region, Silvia Rico. Her passion for bringing the experience of Peru to life is contagious. Silvia and I discuss everything from Ayahuasca, to a full out party on the Inca Trail, to the humility that visiting a place like Peru can instill in you. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn