Classic Vacation's podcast

In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Jess Pavloff, Luxury Sales Business Development Manager at Classic Vacations®, brings listeners along on a recent familiarization trip through Sicily and Rome. Joined by travel partners and local experts, Jess explores why Italy remains a top destination — and how Classic's in-depth European expertise helps advisors craft unforgettable journeys.Hear from: • Winnie O'Keefe, Whimsie Luxury Travel• Alessandro Longo, Product Development Manager, Europe at Classic Vacations• Eloisa Bianchi, Six Senses Rome• Giacomo, Tour Guide in SicilyGet an inside look at one of Europe's most sought-after destinations — with insights and inspiration straight from the heart of Italy.

In this on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Tisa Sanchez, Caribbean Product Manager at Classic Vacations®, transports listeners to the pristine shores of South Caicos in the Turks & Caicos Islands. Recorded during an exclusive familiarization trip, Tisa sits down with Michael Tibbetts, Chief Executive Officer and owner of the brand-new Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, for an inspiring conversation.From vision to grand opening, discover how Salterra is setting a new standard in Caribbean luxury. Tune in to hear about:• What sets Salterra apart from other Caribbean resorts• Incredible wildlife on and around South Caicos• Why this property is the perfect fit for your clients' next island escapeGet an inside look at one of the Caribbean's newest luxury resorts — with valuable insights and inspiration straight from the shores of South Caicos.Salterra will be available to book at classicvacations.com starting May 10, 2025.

In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Caroline Massey, Social Media Specialist at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners to the vibrant island of Curaçao during a recent FAM trip. Joined by Classic's hotel partners and travel advisors, Caroline dives into firsthand insights on what makes Curaçao a must-visit destination.Hear from: Sue-Anne Klabber, Baoase Luxury ResortChandra Smouse, Curaçao Tourist BoardLindi Halpin, Marriott International Vonetta Wijngaarde, Hyatt Inclusive Collection Americas Hector Quiroz, Hyatt Inclusive Collection AmericasAshlee Martin, Magnolia Travel GroupTeri Schneider, Destination Fun Travel Whether you're a travel advisor looking to deepen your knowledge or simply dreaming of a Caribbean getaway, this conversation offers valuable takeaways and inspiration straight from the heart of the island.

In our latest episode, Yvette Broussard, Director of Product Development, and Danny Gomez Jr., Senior Manager of Training, dive deep into Classic Vacations' Japan. Discover the top places to stay, not-to-miss experiences, and expert travel tips for exploring this fascinating destination. Travel Advisors can find information on hotels and packages by visiting Classic Vacations

Classic Vacations is excited to announce our newest destination, Africa! Join us on our latest podcast episode where Yvette Broussard, Director of Product Development, and Kyle Brock, Business Development Manager, dive deep into Classic's extraordinary Africa offerings. Discover thrilling itineraries, hear their personal experiences, and pick up expert tips for exploring this captivating destination.

In case you couldn't attend our webinar with Melissa Krueger and Grace McBride, we created a podcast for you. Tune in as Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations, and Grace McBride, CEO of Lucia—a contractor marketplace for hospitality —delve into travel industry trends, the challenges facing travel industry entrepreneurs, and discuss how the collaboration between Classic Vacations and Lucia can contribute to the support and growth of your travel business.   To get started with Lucia, travel agencies that are registered with Classic Vacations CLICK HERE If your travel agency is new to Classic, please download and complete the Agency Registration forms found under Sign In Information Book a Lucia demo Have a question for Lucia? Email:  hello@letslucia.com   

Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is a luxurious one-island-one-resort destination located on the North Malé Atoll which is known for its abundant marine life. The resort offers breathtaking overwater villas each with a dedicated lifestyle host for personalized service, fine dining, an award-winning spa, and so much more! Listen in as Kapil Mathur, Director of Sales, shares why his spectacular property is the perfect choice for discerning guests visiting Maldives.

Think you know Hawaii? Listen in as Deaner Snively, Sr. Account Executive, Marriott International, Hawaii shares his insider's perspective on the amazing, unique experiences his properties and these beautiful islands have to offer.

France's iconic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes overlooks the city's renowned La Croisette and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Listen in as Camille Trenda, Director of Sales North America, shares why her spectacular property is the perfect choice when visiting the French Riviera and the surrounding area. For more information about this luxury hotel visit classicvacations.com

Listen in as Lynne Chomicz, Classic Vacations' VP, Groups & New Business Strategy, discusses Classic Vacations' popular E3 (Elite, Education, Experience.) An event of interactive education, collaboration, and exchange with highly engaged travel professionals that helps build confident and successful business owners.

Listen in as Leticia Del Rosario, Director of Leisure Accounts, gives an overview and update on the Meliá Hotels International brands in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, including the newest, Falcon's Resort by Meliá, Punta Cana, an elevated all-inclusive “resortainment” experience.

Listen in as Emma Karnes, Business Development Manager, AIC Hotel Group gives an update on all five Hard Rock All-Inclusive Hotels and UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. You'll learn what makes each property unique, which best suits your client's needs, and so much more!

Highgate hotels in Hawaii offers amazing services and amenities for all types of travelers. Listen in as Shauna Nakamura, Area Director Leisure and Transient Sales, gives an overview of the outstanding features and exciting recent enhancements at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, and Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows.

In this episode, Classic Vacations' new CEO, Melissa Krueger, recipient of the 2022 Female Leaders Luminary Award, talks about the challenges of a female leader, what's trending in travel executive circles, and shares her advice on how to build and advance business during these challenging times.

Winter is coming! Listen in as Tisa Lange, Classic Vacations' Associate Product Development Manager, gives an overview of our newest product, SKI by Classic. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

In this episode, Business Development Managers, Joseph Barney and Ray Benevides, meet with Pilar Arizmendi Stewart, VP of Sales & Marketing, The Americas, Palladium Hotel Group. Listen in as Pilar shares what makes Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts and TRS Hotels unique in the popular all-inclusive market. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

Scottsdale may be known for its luxury resorts, plush spas, and amazing golf, but it's equally popular for its fun events, variety of outdoor adventures, and immersive experiences. Listen in as Nicole Krekeler, Tourism Sales Manager, Experience Scottsdale, shares insider tips and tells us all about this desert gem that she calls home.

In this episode, Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney, speak with Classic Vacations' new CEO, Melissa Krueger. Listen in to their fun, personable conversation as Melissa shares everything from her journey in the travel industry and how she balances career and family, to skin care tips. Music by ItsWarR from Pixabay

Namale Resort & Spa was voted Number 1 Best Resort in the South Pacific by Travel + Leisure. Listen in as Alissa Harrison, Sales & Marketing Manager, tells us about the outstanding features and the exciting recent enhancements to her all-inclusive 5-star boutique property.

Aruba is a Caribbean paradise offering perfect weather, beautiful beaches, culinary delights, luxury accommodations, and friendly people. Listen in as Kim Riddle, Business Development Manager, Aruba Tourism Authority, shares some of the many reasons visitors feel the Aruba Effect on this One Happy Island. Click here for Aruba Entry Requirements

Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, is a unique hotel located in an ideal location near the Danube River in the heart of Budapest. Listen in as Zsófia Árvay, Director of Sales, shares the exceptional history, and luxurious features of this architectural gem.

Blue Waters Resort & Spa is a stunning beachfront resort known for its laid-back luxury. Listen in as Anna Wells, Sales & Marketing Director, gives an update on her spectacular property and tells us why her resort is perfect for your distinguished clients.

In this episode, Georgia Boosalis, Sales Director for Canaves Oia Resorts, Santorini, offers invaluable insider tips not only about her four stunning properties, but also about the beautiful island of Santorini. You'll learn what makes each hotel unique, which best suits your clients' needs, and so much more!

With the largest over-water bungalows in the South Pacific, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers uncompromising luxury. Listen in as Amanda Esposito, Director of Luxury Sales, tells us why her resort is the perfect fit for your discerning clients.

Set on world-famous Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, The Ritz-Carlton Turks & Caicos opened in June, 2021. Listen in as Lindi Halpern, Senior Sales Executive, Travel Industry Sales, Marriott Luxury Resorts Caribbean tells us about the unique features of this luxury resort.

In this episode Classic's Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney, speak with the delightful Dinorah Tobon Hampshire, Director of Sales USA & Canada, Hoteles Xcaret. Listen as they share the unique experiences offered at the outstanding properties of Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Hotel Xcaret Artes, and the newest offer, La Casa de la Playa. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

We've taken highlights from a recent Learning Lounge session, where Classic Vacations' team members, Lynne Chomicz, Lisa Tenerelli-Escover, and Joelle Apilado speak with our friends from Trip Mate and explain the benefits of Classic's Travel Smart Plan trip protection package options for 2022.

Listen in as Lisa Hollenberg, Director of Sales, Palmaïa, The House of AïA, joins Classic's Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney and shares the Palmaïa experience. Discover this unique wellness-focused resort and all it offers. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

Located in the heart of Monaco, the iconic Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo has elegance, understated refinement, and is the ideal hotel for experiencing supreme luxury and tranquility. Listen in as Jennifer Ponton, Business Development Manager, the Americas, Monte-Carlo SBM - Hotels & Casinos, gives an update on this spectacular property and all that Monte-Carlo and its surrounding area offers.

Listen in as Ruselle Galante, Regional Sales Manager, Halekulani and Halepuna Waikiki, joins Classic's Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney and shares the Halekulani and Halepuna Waikiki experience. Discover all that's new and exciting at her beautiful properties Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

The iconic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes overlooks the city's renowned La Croisette and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Listen in as Mafoudia Toure, Director of Sales, The Americas, gives a tour of her spectacular property and all that Cannes and its surrounding area offers.

Listen in as Classic's Strategic Account Managers, Joseph Barney and Ray Benevides speak with Silvio Bion, General Manager of The Brando, located on the island of Tetiaroa, French Polynesia. The Brando is unique in combining the mission of sustainability with a stunning luxury resort. Silvio describes this mission and gives us a sneak peek of The Brando's new Wellness Week program. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

Listen in as Francisco Rello, Regional Sales & Marketing Manager, Western USA, Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Margaritaville Brand Ambassador, gives an overview of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, the recently opened family-friendly resort that features the first Landshark Brewery, JWB Prime Steakhouse, and a wide variety of activities for guests to enjoy during their vacation. Please review Coronavirus Information - GoDominicanRepublic.com for up-to-date entry protocols, testing and quarantine requirements to visit this beautiful destination.

In this episode, we've taken highlights from a recent webinar featuring the newest luxury resort in Riviera Nayarit, Conrad Punta de Mita. Listen in as Liliana Reed, Director of Leisure Sales, Conrad Punta de Mita, shares don't-miss sites and activities, and tells us why her property is perfect for family and multi-generational travel. Check out this video about Conrad Punta de Mita

We've taken highlights from a recent webinar featuring The Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, Anguilla. In this episode, Lorine Charles-St. Jules, Director of Sales for the Anguilla Tourist Board, gives an overview of this hidden gem including the addition of new luxury properties, what to see and do, and why it's the perfect destination for your discerning clients. For Information on Traveling to Anguilla: Go to www.ivisitanguilla.com

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts offer the finest properties in the most exclusive destinations. Listen in as Director of Global Sales, Bertha Vargas, explains the Rosewood philosophy and updates us on her exquisite properties. Next, Ayfer Bedir, Director of Sales, Rosewood London, gives a tour of her luxury hotel.

In this Just Go Show episode, SAMs Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney speak with Andrea Saderi, General Manager for Baglioni Resort, Maldives. Listen in as Andrea shares his journey from the island of Sardinia to his current role as General Manager for this luxury resort described as “paradise with Italian grace”. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

Listen in as Erin Wigger, Business Development Manager, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, gives an update and shares some great insider tips about her stunning property that offers sunrise and sunset views, a private lagoon, and the only over-water restaurant on Moorea. For current entry requirements to the Islands of Tahiti visit Air Tahiti and Tahiti Tourisme.

In our 5th “Just Go Show” episode, Classic Vacations Strategic Account Managers Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney speak with Angela Vento, General Manager for Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui. Listen in as Angela shares her incredible story of working through the ranks and taking a risk to move from Atlanta to Hawaii. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

Paradisus by Meliá is a stunning collection of beachfront luxury resorts reflecting the natural beauty of their surroundings. Listen in as Tamara Gilbert, Director of Leisure Sales, South West USA gives an update and shares some great insider tips about these amazing properties. Classic Vacations' hotel status updates with links to current entry requirements can be found here

With sage advice and an infectious laugh, Gary C. Sadler, OD tells us about his journey from the beaches of Jamaica as a Sandals Playmaker to his current position as Executive V. P. of Sales & Industry Relations for Unique Vacations, Inc., affiliate of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, a chain of luxury all-inclusive resorts located throughout the Caribbean. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay

Listen in on highlights from a recent webinar with Jennifer Guevera, Global Director of Sales, West Coast USA & Canada, Kerzner International. Jennifer gives an overview and shares some fun insider tips about her three properties in Dubai; Atlantis, The Palm, One&Only The Palm, and One&Only Royal Mirage. Next, we move on to the Maldives to explore the One&Only Reethi Rah. Classic Vacations' hotel status updates with links to current entry requirements can be found here --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

In our third episode of the Just Go Show series, Strategic Account Managers Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney catch up with Cari Abonador-Alexander, Director of Leisure & Wholesale for Park Hyatt St. Kitts and Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Listen in on highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar as Zachary Samuel, Sr. Sales Manager, Pure Grenada, takes us on a tour of one of the Caribbean's hidden gems. From beautiful beaches and a plethora of waterfalls, to excellent sailing, diving, and luxury resorts, Grenada offers so much to discover! Zachary will share some great insider tips and the must-see sites on the Spice of the Caribbean. Click here for required entry requirements to Grenada Classic Vacations hotel status updates can be found here --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

On this episode of the Just Go Show series, Strategic Account Managers Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney have a fun conversation with Christina Richardson, Associate Director of Sales, Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, Maui about updates to her property, and life on the Islands. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Listen in on highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar as Classic’s Joanie Maro takes us on a tour of one of the world’s most beautiful islands. We explore all that Santorini has to offer, from hiking and wine tasting, to archaeology and sailing, with a sprinkle of valuable insider tips along the way. Detailed entry requirements can be found HERE and HERE --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Listen in on our first Just Go Show series where Strategic Account Managers, Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney talk with Jonnie Torres, Director of Sales & Marketing, Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa about updates to her property, and some of her favorite off-the-beaten path places on her home island of Maui. Music by Wataboi from Pixabay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Listen in on highlights from a Know Zone webinar and take a journey to Saint Lucia, the world’s leading honeymoon destination, with Richard Moss, Senior Sales Manager, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. Visit Saint Lucia Tourism for the latest entry requirements. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Listen in on highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar with Pamela Ewing, Director of Tourism, Turks & Caicos Tourist Board where we explored the beautiful islands of Turks and Caicos home to World Travel Awards’ World’s Leading Beach Destination, Grace Bay Beach. Visit Turks and Caicos Tourism for the latest entry requirements. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Listen in on highlights from a December 2020 Know Zone webinar where we explored the beauty and vibrancy of Jamaica with Sean-Pierre Webster, Business Development Manager for the Jamaica Tourist Board. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message

Named number 5 among the top 20 hotels in Miami by 2020 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, Nobu Hotel Miami Beach, was featured on a recent Know Zone webinar. Rachael Palumbo, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Worldwide for Nobu Hotels shares an overview of the luxury Nobu brand, and tells us about this stunning property. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/knowzonepodcast/message