Come Fly With Me

You asked....I answered!Catherine Heald from Remote Lands joined me to talk all things Thailand- and the conversation didn't disappoint! First off, Catherine's business background is one to be admired and it was an honor to hear how she co-founded her Asia-focused tour company. I'll also say this- her travel blooper (at the very end) tops all travel bloopers so far. In fact, I'd be shocked if it didn't take the cake for all future podcasts.We discussed what to know about traveling to Thailand for the first time, where to visit, and why you shouldn't skip the popular cities. I'm in love with how this episode turned out. Happy listening!

The Greek Islands is a top requested destination due to its romance and dramatic views, but the Cycladic Islands offer more than just honeymoon vibes. These islands all vary drastically from each other, while offering incredible gastronomy, history, and culture of their own.I (virtually) sat down with two team members from Original Senses to talk about what each island has to offer, how to get around, and the future of travel in Greece. Tune in to inspire your next island hopping vacation through the Greek Isles!

It may sound simple: "be careful."However, when you are in a new destination and trying to find your way around via Google Maps or have enjoyed a night out with an abundance of wine...it's not so simple, is it?As a previous solo traveler, I am outlining the guidelines that I held myself to while traveling to foreign destinations in order to stay as safe as possible.

This one is a courtesy to the other travel designers out there. We get a lot of inquiries from individuals that don't always know what they want out of a trip...and that's where we come into play! However, there are some key factors that everyone should decide before they start to narrow down their travel plans. I'm outlining the five things to consider before you solidify your next vacation, whether you're planning solo or working with a travel professional.

If you know me, you know my love of wine. Specifically red wine. Which is what makes Josefina Rivas and I such a great match. The first time that we spoke was during March, when we thought this whole pandemic thing would just blow over. Here we sit in November and we're doing round two of our recording to share the magic of Mendoza with a wider audience. Josefina shares why The Vines is such a perfect place to experience Mendoza, as well as a few tips on getting around, what cities to combine with your visit, and how long to explore each area. This is actually a pretty full rundown on Argentina, but with a microscope on the Mendoza region.If you're a wine lover, travel addict, or hotel fiend- you're going to want to hear this one!

When do you get travel insurance? The short answer is always. However, not every policy is created equally.What I've found since COVID-19 came about is that clients think that travel insurance is only beneficial in case of needing to cancel. Before the global pandemic hit, insurance was considering more helpful while "in-destination."I'm unwrapping why I think that you should get travel insurance, even in a post-pandemic (because at some point we will get there) world. ------Disclaimer: I am not a licensed insurance broker and this is not meant to be used as legal advice. This information has been obtained by navigating clients through the insurance claim process during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Tulum... where the jungle meets the sea. It's also where ex-pats tend to set down tropical roots.This Mexican oasis has become an incredibly trendy and popular spot in the past years. It's been described as "hippie chic" and "bohemian." Not only does this destination offer incredible beaches, but it is an absolute mecca for gastronomic experiences. With bike rides to the Mayan ruins, cool dips in the cenotes, and tasty treats from the local food stands- Tulum is a sure bet for a great getaway. While many hotels in this area are a bit more rustic, Jashita Tulum offers a unique approach to visiting Tulum through its 5-star level propertyz, private bay area, residential vibes, and modern aesthetic. Listen in to my interview with Marta de Zambiasi to learn more about Tulum, how this Italian found herself selling a Mexican paradise, and why Jashita is a great option for your next stay in this area!

If you're not new here- you know one thing about me: I'm a hotel geek. So it's a natural progression for me to be completely intrigued by the Belmond brand. Natalie says it all when she shares that "Belmond doesn't build hotels." But what does that mean?!Listen to find out more about this iconic hotel chain and why they should top your list on your next vacation!

You may have seen it on my Instagram stories - I recently explored Cabo San Lucas!We visited 11 properties within 4 days....yes, it was a lot (and hot), but I learned so much from my recent visit and am so excited to share my top takeaways with you.Enjoy!

They call it the city of lights. It's a city that I never imagined falling in love with- mainly because the world told me that I should. I didn't think I could possibly be wooed by a place that seemed so "basic." I was wrong. There is a reason why Paris is the ultimate aphrodisiac. One look, one cappuccino, one stroll down the cobblestone streets, one pan au chocolat, and one (too many) glasses of champagne while sitting outside a quaint bistro...I was done for. I now claim Paris as the city that I would move to tomorrow if someone gave me the option to do so.Naturally, I felt that I needed to host an episode on the city that has stolen my heart. Not any interview- but one with the noteworthy Dorchester properties. Plaza Athenee and Le Meurice are iconic hotels within the city of Paris, and we are diving deep on what makes these properties (and their home) so incredible.

Confession: I took the WRONG test to travel to Antigua.Yep....even a travel professional can get the wrong test! Which means, that many others could end up in the same boat. So I thought it would be helpful to walk listeners through the nuances of testing and what is important to know before traveling anywhere that requires proof of negative COVID results.My husband's response: "Baby, at least it was us and not a client." Positive perspective...y'all, that man is great at it! Listen to hear my ultimate travel blooper!

Imagine this: you arrive in one of the most beautiful places on earth. You check into a stunning hotel with an unbelievable panoramic view of a glistening seascape. In the morning, you enjoy a breakfast of fresh croissants and a hot-piping cappuccino- the perfect thing to wake you up for your day ahead. Just when the day couldn't seem better, you step aboard a private boat that is assigned to introduce to secret caves and grottos along a dramatic coastline, while sipping Prosecco. After a long day, you arrive back into your intimate boutique hotel with a sunkissed body and feeling a little "light" from the bubbly Italian concoction. That is exactly what Elisabeth and Peppe offer at Blue Star Positano. They don't just run a business, they create lifelong memories. In fact, I've been told that they are responsible for many clients' best day of their lives. Since Elisabeth is the professional on the Amalfi Coast, she was the perfect one to invite onto this podcast. I hope that you love this virtual escape to the dramatic coastline of Italy as much as I did!

Patricia Johnson is a native of Belize, and her pride for her country shines through. Patricia has a deep history of supporting the local hospitality industry. Now, serving as a Destination Specialist for Belize Sailing Vacations and Absolute Belize, Patricia has the opportunity to provide all that Belize has to offer to tourists. From exploring Mayan ruins, experience the local flavors, taking in the mountain views, and soaking up the sea spray, Belize is a feast for the senses.

This week, instead of a Fast Five, I'm giving out the goods! I recorded this episode a month ago- but the audio was a bit of an issue. If you can listen through some of the delays and overlaps, there is a lot of amazing content to hear about Portugal. Don't worry...all audio glitches have been remedied, and I'm on the up and up with technology!I spent an hour and a half diving deep into Portugal with "Mr. Portugal" himself- Luis de Sousa!You'll hear why Luis:Loves sharing Portugal tourism with clientsThe logistics of getting around and things to consider prior to selecting a routeAn ideal route for a first time Portugal touristHis favorite properties and what makes them so specialHow someone can experience their destination authenticallyWhy returning to travel is so important for local economies, and how we can do so safelyThank you for listening!

Croatia... nicknamed the land of 1,000 islands. Known to me as an Adriatic haven that offers incredible views, crystal clear waters, and some of the most city dynamics that the world has to offer. Dubrovnik has become increasingly more popular as "Game of Thrones" showcased its splendour, but it has always had a siren call for wanderlusters.Adriana Mercep joins me from Rixos Premium Dubrovnik to talk about how there is more to the city than just the historical city center, as well as the ideal itinerary for your first time to this beautiful country.

Preparing for a trip is serious business with me. I always prepare a list of the items that I'm packing, and there are always a few of the same key items. I am sharing my top five favorite products that I never travel without.

Tune in to hear insight from one of the most resourceful and credible travel professionals that I know. Jonathan Epstein is the owner and CEO of Celebrated Experiences, which is a company specializing in bespoke travel throughout the UK, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, and Italy. He is an absolute guru when it comes to logistics, culture, and beautiful accommodations in each location.Jonathan and I chat about assumptions about travel through Scotland and what makes the country so unique. He shares memories, anecdotes, and drops names of fabulous hotels that he closely partners with to help client dreams come true. If you are thinking about venturing through this culture-rich country, this is the episode that you have been waiting for!

I'm not a "thing" person. I don't desire shelves of whosits and whatsits galore, like America's favorite mermaid. I like meaningful souvenirs that transport me back to the moment where I was living my best life on a trip. I'm "unpacking" my top five souvenirs that allow you to skip the storage, and maximize on your memories.

The Maldives: A tropical oasis remote enough to allow even the tensest of humans to disconnect and float away in a sea of blue. Tomas Cochrane from Hummingbird Travel joins me to talk about the most incredible places to stay in the Maldives, as well as why this destination attracts such luxury clientele. With its over the water huts, private atolls, and seaplanes- it can be easy to feel removed from the actual culture. However, Tomas breaks down how you can still experience this destination in an authentic way when choosing the right accommodations and location.

Flying can leave anyone feeling emotionally and physically wiped, particularly when you are crossing multiple timezones. I'm kicking off the weekend with five tips to help you reduce your chances of losing valuable time on your vacation by beating jet lag.

Hawaii is known for dramatic landscapes, adventure- and most of all, their hospitality & relaxed atmosphere. Where you know it or not, "aloha" is more than just a greeting- it is an entire philosophy. Libby Child from Prince Resorts Hawaii joins me to share her interpretation of each island, as well as how your choice of hotel can create your perception of your chosen destination. Join in to hear why Big Island should be a "must experience" (not just a "must-see) on your next Hawaiian adventure!

To travel, or not to travel, that is the question.It's never had to be a question before, but in light of COVID-19, we've all had to decide whether traveling right now is right for us. I went to Mexico to scope things out (it's a tough job, but someone has to do it), and I am dishing out my thoughts on the top five things to consider before planning your next trip in a COVID world.

Wazha is a specialist in Africa, not only by trade, but by birth. He was genuinely MADE for his job as an Africa Collection Manager of Index Select, and he proves it through his hysterical stories and knowledge about the continent. Wazha shares about why Africa is so much more than just safari, as well as why co-existing along the wildlife of Africa can pose unexpected adventures while in the bush.If you're looking to get a little wild...tune in!

Booking a flight...it seems straight forward, right? You could be correct, but there are a lot of things to factor in before purchasing your airfare. Check out my top five items to consider before clicking that "book" button.

Have you ever wondered what it was like to fly in a private jet? Or maybe you fly privately on a regular basis. Regardless of where you are at in your privatized air travel journey, this episode will shed light on things to know, what to consider, and why there is a major boom in the private jet sector. Josh Allen is the President of JetLinx and a long-time aviation industry professional. We met through another podcast, and now we are joining up to create an incredible trip through Europe on a private jet. This venture has been a bit of a secret... until now! Listen in to find out more!

The key to international travel? Your passport. It can be the best tool in your vacation arsenal, but without it you can be in a real travel pickle. Today I am sharing my top five things that you should know about obtaining and using your passport.

Livia offers her literary interpretation of each Italian destination that she visits through her blog, "The Italy Edit." She is an achieved Forbes contributor and an incredible content creator (check out her stories on Instagram to be transported!). I had the pleasure of being able to chat with Livia about all of her travels throughout Italy, and why she has chosen to deep dive specifically into one country for all of her journalistic endeavors. We talked about food, wine (my fave), and the pride that shines through for each region's specialties. We also dove into how you can get an authentic experience in Italy by visiting the lesser-known spots. Want to know how you can watch a live volcano eruption while enjoying dinner? Tune in!

When visiting a destination, you want to make sure that your accommodations will provide you with the best experience. That can mean something different for everyone, depending on your travel style. Before you decide on an apartment/home rental or a hotel, I'm laying out my top five things to consider to make the best choice for YOU!

Steven Gould is the President of Gould's Travel in Clearwater, FL. Founded in 2010, Steven has proven himself as an expert in the field. I (virtually) sat down with Steven to reminisce on when we met in Dubai right before COVID took the world by storm. We discussed what has happened since COVID cleared everyone's calendars, as well as travel trends that we are seeing, and why an agent can be the best tool for creating your dream vacation.

Jennifer shares her "must know" nuggets of information before heading to Europe for the first time. From dining out to managing expectations on room size, you'll want to give this episode a listen before you hop on your first flight abroad!

Hi! My name is Jennifer Jacob, and I am the proud founder Explorateur Travel - a design agency that custom curates vacation itineraries with a focus on authentic local experiences and individual travel style. This podcast is meant to provide listeners with travel insight, inspiration and insider tips on creating your next adventure. In this episode, I introduce myself and explain a bit on how I got into travel, as well as why I am starting this podcast. It's nice to meet you- I'm glad you're here!