The Last Resort

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Michelle McSorley, a concierge travel advisor with Favorite Grampy Travels, and Jamie Biesiada, a Travel Weekly senior editor and host of the Trade Secrets podcast, about their recent visits to the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel at Universal Studios Resort. McSorley and Biesiada share why the luxury property’s direct access to Universal Epic Universe is a gamechanger, as well as offer details on the hotel’s park views, dining options and themed How To Train Your Dragon Kids’ Suites. The pair also touch on how Universal Studios’ latest hotel and park expansions may change guest patterns, potentially extending Universal stays from quick add-ons to full-week experiences. Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The seventh episode of the third season will be posted on July 14. Further resources: Michelle McSorley Favorite Grampy Travels Facebook Nova Luxury Travels Jamie Biesiada Travel Weekly Trade Secrets Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel at Universal Studios Resort Epic Universe: A new era for Universal Orlando Resort (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Amy Nidds, a travel consultant with VWT by Chase Travel, about her recent visit to the Hotel Balzac in Paris.Nidds reveals why this intimate 58-room hotel with Eiffel Tower views delivers an experience that feels like “your own apartment in Paris,” complete with a concierge team willing to go the extra mile to secure “impossible” restaurant reservations. She confirms that luxury European travel demand remains “crazy,” with clients not only booking Paris but often pairing the city with stays in Provence or Normandy. Nidds also shares her must-do recommendations, including the 30-seat Hemingway Bar and where to find the best chocolate mousse in Paris.Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The sixth episode of the third season will be posted on June 9th.Further resources: Amy Nidds White Glove Getaways Instagram Hotel Balzac ParisWant to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Limor Decter, a luxury travel/lifestyle advisor and writer with Embark Beyond, about her recent visit to the Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection in Los Cabos, Mexico.Decter dishes on private beach dinners, whale watching from ocean-facing balconies and personalized service that she said makes her feel like she’s “coming home.” Plus, get her perspective on Cabo’s evolution as a luxury destination, with insights on seasonal pricing, flight connectivity improvements and the market’s expanding appeal beyond just sea and sand.Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The fifth episode of the third season will be posted on May 12.Further resources:Limor DecterEsperanza, Auberge Resorts CollectionEsperanza unveils a feast of culinary experiences (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Julie Boller, a luxury travel advisor with Atlas Wander Travel, about her recent visit to the Sheen Falls Lodge in Co. Kerry, Ireland.Boller talks about the property’s dramatic landscapes, spacious accommodations perfect for couples and multi-generational families and diverse experiences, from falconry to helicopter tours of the Ring of Kerry. She also shares insider tips on how to craft the perfect 10- to 14-day Irish itinerary and chats about why her clients are consistently booking back-to-back Irish adventures.Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The fourth episode of the third season will be posted on April 14.Further resources: Atlas Wander Travel Sheen Falls LodgeA toast to the Wine Cellar at Ireland's Sheen Falls Lodge (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Anna Gilbert, founder and lead travel designer at Upannaway, about her recent visit to Angama’s luxury safari lodges and camps in Kenya.Gilbert shares her first impressions of Angama’s flagship Angama Mara lodge, more recently opened Angama Amboseli property and the brand’s intimate Angama Tented Camp. She shares details on some of her most memorable moments, including a peaceful hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara and getting the chance to bond with her guides over Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton songs. She also offers candid insights about Angama’s most distinctive features, from the brand’s exceptional accommodations to their unique photography studio.Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The third episode of the third season will be posted on March 10. Further resources:Anna Gilbert Upannaway Angama New Angama Amboseli safari lodge pays homage to its 'Super Tusker' neighbors (Travel Weekly) Angama plans tented safari lodge in the shadow of Kilimanjaro (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Sarah Groen, owner and CEO of Bell & Bly Design, about her recent visit Lake Como’s Grand Hotel Tremezzo.Groen shares details on the historic property’s iconic floating pool, Riva boats and Michelin-worthy dining experiences, while also explaining what makes the Grand Hotel Tremezzo distinct from its sister Lake Como property, Passalacqua. She also offers insider tips on prime shoulder season timing, unique alternatives to water activities and how her clients prefer to combine Lake Como with other European stops.Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The second episode of the third season will be posted on February 10. Further resources:Sarah Groen Bell & Bly Design Luxury Travel Insider Grand Hotel Tremezzo Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Amber Rose Powers, a luxury travel advisor with Fora X, about her recent visits to the Mandarin Oriental Canouan and Soho Beach House Canouan.Powers takes listeners to Canouan, a hidden Caribbean gem where “billionaires go to get away from millionaires.” She shares her experience at two distinctly different properties: the ultra-luxe Mandarin Oriental, with its marble suites and butler service, and the laid-back yet sophisticated Soho Beach House, both of which have recently reopened after Hurricane Beryl. Powers shares highlights from her trip, from communal “jetty dinner” experiences to catamaran excursions through the nearby Tobago Cays and talks about how these two Canouan resorts successfully blend authentic Caribbean charm with world-class hospitality.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The first episode of the third season will be posted on January 13.Further resources:Amber Rose Powers Mandarin Oriental Canouan  Soho Beach House Canouan  Hurricane Beryl leaves more than destruction in its wake (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Abbey Meyer, CEO of Missouri-based Sky High Travel, about her recent visit to the Hotel Xcaret Arte near Playa del Carmen, Mexico.Meyer describes how the adults-only Xcaret all-inclusive stands apart with its art-filled interiors, diverse cuisine and what she boldly claims is “the most incredible spa in all of Mexico.” While the resort commands premium pricing, she also explains how the included access to immersive cultural activities and Xcaret's surrounding eco-parks justify the investment for adventurous travelers. Jelski and Meyer also talk broader luxury all-inclusive demand in Mexico, what the current pricing picture looks like and whether all-inclusive supply is starting to outpace demand.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The 12th episode of the second season will be posted on December 9. Further resources:  Abbey Meyer Instagram Sky High Travel Hotel Xcaret Arte Grupo Xcaret's Rodrigo Motavelazco on working with advisors (Travel Weekly)  Grupo Xcaret has a new booking tool for travel advisors (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicense See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Jill Albino of Jill Albino Travel and Gabrielle Brechner of Watch Our Step Travel about their recent visit to the Botania Relais & Spa on the Italian island of Ischia. Albino and Brechner share details on the property's intimate atmosphere, unique villa-style accommodations and standout culinary experiences, including a “dessert pasta” that's prepped tableside. They also highlight Ischia's potential as a less crowded alternative to popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast, as well as discuss the island's accessibility, with its proximity to Naples and Capri making it an attractive addition to a broader Italian itinerary. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The 11th episode of the second season will be posted on November 11. Further resources:  Jill Albino Instagram Gabrielle Brechner Instagram  Botania Relais & Spa  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Julie Shotmeyer, CEO of Jet Set Getaways, about her recent visit to The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island in Northeastern Florida. Shotmeyer shares her insights on the resort's beachfront location, expansive accommodations and Club Level—which she says is the best Ritz-Carlton Club Level she's ever experienced. She also talks about the property's diverse appeal for various traveler types and why it's a potential fit for clients looking for an alternative to Florida destinations like Naples or West Palm Beach. Shotmeyer caps off the chat with an update on current leisure travel trends and the U.S. destinations her clients are buzzing about.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The tenth episode of the second season will be posted on October 14.Further resources:Julie Shotmeyer Jet Set Getaways Instagram The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Pamela Schein Murphy, a Fora-affiliated luxury travel advisor and founder of The Wandrist, about her recent visit to the Rosewood Schloss Fuschl near Salzburg, Austria.Schein Murphy dishes on the newly opened lakefront property, which she describes as having an “adult summer camp” feel. She also raves about Lake Fuschl's Caribbean-like turquoise waters and the property's Saint-Tropez-esque beach club, which serves up an especially tasty octopus. Schein Murphy also talks about why the Rosewood Schloss Fuschl offers a refreshing alternative to Europe's overcrowded hotspots—and might be the perfect option for clients seeking to escape the continent's scorching summer temps.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The ninth episode of the second season will be posted on September 9. Further resources:Pamela Schein Murphy The Wanderist Instagram  Rosewood Schloss Fuschl  Historical lakefront hotel will become Rosewood's second in Austria (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.comTheme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Fora-affiliated advisors Nancy Deane, Kim Hannum, Pamela Schein Murphy, Claudia Riegelhaupt and Louisa Vann, who have joined forces to attend fam trips together as part of a “fam pod.” The quintet recently visited the U.K., combining a London trip with a stay at Estelle Manor, a 108-room country estate and private members' club in Oxfordshire.The group shares a few insights on their London experiences, which included site visits to properties within the Firmdale Hotels and Maybourne portfolios, before diving into their stay at Estelle Manor, which they say puts a “really fresh and fun” spin on the country estate concept. They talk about the property's Bridgerton-esque charm, its adults-only main house and how the property's membership club component elevates the guest experience. The advisors also delve into the benefits of traveling together as part of a fam pod, and how their established group dynamic allows for more focused and productive familiarization trips.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The eighth episode of the second season will be posted on August 12. Further resources:  Nancy Deane The Deane's List Instagram Kim Hannum Instagram Pamela Schein Murphy The Wanderist  Instagram Claudia Riegelhaupt Instagram Louisa Vann Louisa Vann Travel Instagram  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Photo of Estelle Manor courtesy of Mark Anthony Fox Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last Resort: Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Brandon White, owner of Share the Magic Travel, to talk about his recent visit to the Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.White shares the inside scoop on the recently opened 301-room all-inclusive, set amid mountains, black sand beaches and lush rainforests. He also talks about the property's many amenities—including its 11 dining venues and multiple pool areas—and why St. Vincent's off-the-beaten-path allure makes it a prime spot for adventure-loving couples.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The seventh episode of the second season will be posted on July 8.Further resources:Brandon White Share the Magic Travel Instagram  Facebook Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 'Sandals 2.0' is embodied at St. Vincent all-inclusive (Travel Weekly)Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Megan McCaffrey-Guerrera, owner of Bella Vita Travels, to talk about her recent visit to the Cali Mykonos in Greece.McCaffrey-Guerrera talks about why the 40-suite Cali Mykonos offers plenty of romantic, off-the-beaten path charm, and why she's confident that once she gets clients in the door, “they're going to go back every year.” McCaffrey-Guerrera also shares an update on Greece travel demand this summer and makes mention of a few up-and-coming Greek hotspots that are quickly becoming traveler favorites.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The sixth episode of the second season will be posted on June 10.Further resources: Megan McCaffrey-Guerrera Bella Vita Travels  Instagram  Facebook Cali Mykonos Hotels and resorts dive into boating amenities (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.comTheme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Mark Gerling, owner of Gerling Travel, and Sarah Bogaczyk, owner of Connections Luxury Travel, to talk about their recent visit to The Shore Club Turks & Caicos.Gerling and Bogaczyk talk about why the Long Bay Beach property is a great fit for everyone from families to couples, as well as larger multigenerational groups. The pair also discuss why the resort's villa product offers plenty of “wow factor,” as well as share a few tips on how to maximize a client's stay at Shore Club Turks & Caicos with a luxury yacht add-on and shuttle service to a neighboring sister property.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The fifth episode of the second season will be posted on May 13.Further resources: Mark Gerling Gerling Travel Facebook Sarah Bogaczyk LinkedIn Instagram The Shore Club Turks & Caicos  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Courtnie Nichols, CEO and founder of TravelBash, about her recent visit to luxury Jamaican resort GoldenEye.Jelski and Nichols talk about why the property, a longtime celebrity favorite, is ideal for a buyout or big celebration, as well as for leisure travelers looking for a laid-back, but still luxe, getaway. Nichols also shares her thoughts on Jamaica's appeal as a high-end destination and why recent U.S. advisories related to Jamaica travel have done very little to dissuade her clients from planning travel to the island.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The fourth episode of the second season will be posted on April 8.Further resources:Courtnie Nichols TravelBash  Instagram Facebook GoldenEyeA golden eye: The vision of Chris Blackwell (Travel Weekly)Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Carolyn Consalvo, a senior travel advisor with Andrew Harper, about her recent visits to two country estates in the U.K.: The Newt and Heckfield Place.Jelski and Consalvo talk about why The Newt and Heckfield Place are best paired with a city trip to London, and why garden aficionados find themselves flocking to The Newt in particular. Consalvo also clarifies a few misconceptions that U.S. travelers might have about a U.K. country estate experience, as well as the role modern pop culture—from Downton Abbey to Saltburn—has played in making country estates cool again.Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The third episode of the second season will be posted on March 11.Further resources:Carolyn Consalvo Instagram Andrew Harper Andrew Harper Instagram The Newt https://thenewtinsomerset.com Heckfield Place https://www.heckfieldplace.com Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last Resort: Impression Isla Mujeres by SecretsOn this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Kristi Mackedanz, travel advisor and founder of KM Travel Designs, about her recent visit to the Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets near Cancun, Mexico. Jelski and Mackedanz talk about the property's unique arrival experience, which Mackedanz describes as a true “wow” moment, as well as why a pairing a stay at the Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets with a visit to sister property Impression Moxche By Secrets near Playa del Carmen makes for a winning combination. The pair also chat about how this luxury all-inclusive has changed the Isla Mujeres lodging landscape and why Mexico travel more generally remains perpetually in demand. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited.The second episode of the second season will be posted on February 12. Further resources: Kristi Mackedanz KM Travel Designs  KM Travel Designs – Destination Weddings  Instagram Impression Isla Mujeres by SecretsImpression Isla Mujeres makes an impressive debut (Travel Weekly)  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.comTheme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Leah Winck, owner of Journey On Travel, and Rebecca East, travel advisor at Life Styled Group, about their recent visits to the Four Seasons Resort Bali At Jimbaran Bay and sister property the Four Seasons Resort Bali At Sayan. Winck and East talk about how both resorts excel at incorporating authentic cultural experiences and what it's like to take a raft transfer from the Jimbaran Bay property to the Sayan resort. The pair also chat about how the two very distinct properties can easily be paired together as part of a Bali vacation and why U.S. demand for long-haul destinations like Bali remains robust. The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. Season two will begin in January. Further resources:  Leah Winck Journey on Travel Instagram  Facebook Rebecca East Life Styled Group Instagram Four Seasons Resort Bali At Jimbaran Bay  Four Seasons Resort Bali At Sayan Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last Resort: Kisawa SanctuaryOn this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Linda Sergeant, founder of Far and Away Luxury Destinations, an affiliate of In The Know Experiences, about her recent visit to the Kisawa Sanctuary on Mozambique's Benguerra Island.Sergeant talks about the Kisawa Sanctuary's expansive, residential-style accommodations, robust wellness offerings and why this under-the-radar property has potential to become “one of the world's best hotels.” Sergeant also shares why many U.S. travelers are no longer putting off booking trips to bucket list destinations like Africa and why last-minute travel planning remains a major obstacle for advisors.The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode 10 will be posted December 11. Further resources:  Linda Sergeant Bio Instagram Kisawa Sanctuary Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Title: The Last Resort: Margaritaville Beach Resort Riviera MayaOn this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Syreeta Grose, owner of Grose Travel Services Meetings and Events, and Tim Flatz, owner and senior advisor for Discovery Travel, about their recent visits to the new Margaritaville Beach Resort Riviera Maya in Mexico.Grose and Flatz talk about the property's status as the first adults-only Margaritaville Beach Resort in the Karisma Hotels & Resorts portfolio, and chat about highlights like the best pool bar for grabbing a custom cocktail (where Flatz discovered his new go-to, a Coconut Mojito) and their experience with the resort's glow-in-the-dark pickleball offering. They also touch on the fact that group business—from destination weddings and bachelorette parties to family reunions—remains red hot this year and discuss why a slowdown during “low season” may be a thing of the past.The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode nine will be posted November 13.Further resources:Syreeta Grose Facebook  Tim Flatz Discovery Travel Facebook TikTok  Instagram  Margaritaville Beach Resort Riviera Maya Karisma Hotels & Resorts Upscale all-inclusive resorts embrace elevated wristbands (Travel Weekly) Picking up on the pickleball craze (Travel Weekly)Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to SmartFlyer-affiliated travel advisor Sarah Lopez and Travel Weekly managing editor Rebecca Tobin about their recent visits to the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay on the Hawaiian island of Kauai.Lopez and Tobin talk about 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay's prime position along Kauai's famed North Shore and why the property offers an ideal wellness retreat-style experience, without being an “in your face” wellness destination. The pair chat about some of their favorite amenities at the resort, from delicious bagels at the property's Neighbors cafe venue to complimentary access to electric Audi e‑tron vehicles. Lopez also discusses the negative impact that the recent Maui wildfires have had on Hawaii bookings as a whole.The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode eight will be posted October 9.Further resources:  Sarah Lopez Instagram Rebecca Tobin Travel Weekly Instagram X (Twitter) 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opens on Kauai's North Shore (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicense  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Deb Swacker and Claire Herzog, who are both independent travel advisors affiliated with Fora Travel, about Sage Lodge, a Montana mountain resort located 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. Swacker and Herzog talk about the property's accommodations, including its family- and group-friendly Ranch Houses, which each have four bedrooms and sleep up to 16. They also discuss food and beverage highlights—including an Old Fashioned with an unusual secret ingredient—and why Sage Lodge is a perfect launch pad for outdoor exploration and activities. Additionally, both advisors touch on Montana's recent tourism boom and talk about why national park travel remains a perennial bucket list favorite. The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month. Episode six will be posted September 11. Further resources:  Deb Swacker 227 Travel Instagram Claire Herzog Claire Herzog Travel Instagram Sage Lodge Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.comTheme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicense  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Maurice Smith, founder of Eugene Toriko, and Courtnie Nichols, CEO and founder of TravelBash, about Namron Hospitality's La Valise Tulum in Mexico.Smith and Nichols talk about the property's Instagram-worthy “rolling beds” and key differences between the resort's beachfront wing and more recently added jungle accommodations, as well as why the La Valise Tulum is a perfect launchpad for couples seeking peace and privacy, but also easy access to nearby restaurants and nightlife. The two also talk about Tulum's explosive growth and the destination's diverse array of hospitality options.The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode six will be posted August 14.Further resources: Maurice Smith Eugene Toriko Instagram (Maurice Smith) Instagram (Eugene Toriko) Facebook LinkedIn Courtnie Nichols TravelBash TRLVB Instagram La Valise Tulum Namron Hospitality Renovated La Valise Tulum reopens after fire (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicense  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Stacey Kaplan, a travel consultant with Tzell Travel Group, and Suzanne Ferrando, a travel advisor with Elli Travel Group, about the Salamander Hotels & Resorts-managed Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club on Anguilla's Rendezvous Bay.Kaplan and Ferrando chat about key updates made at the recently revamped property, which was previously flagged as the CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa. Additionally, they touch on their favorite on-property culinary options, from the resort's D Richards steakhouse to the Tokyo Bay modern Japanese concept, and also talk about why being able to market the property's charter flight service from New York's Westchester County Airport and the Fort Lauderdale Airport is a “gamechanger.”The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode five will be posted July 10.Further resources:Stacey Kaplan Tzell Travel Group Suzanne Ferrando Elli Travel Group Aurora Anguilla Resort and Golf Club Salamander Hotels & Resorts New Aurora Anguilla serves up a luxurious stay. And plenty of lobster. (Travel Weekly) Aurora Anguilla is joining the Salamander Hotels portfolio (Travel Weekly) Aurora Anguilla Resort will be open year-round (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicense  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Tony Adler, president and CEO of Cruise and Resort Inc., and Kristy Adler, executive vice president and COO of Cruise and Resort Inc., about the Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen and Secrets Impression Moxche all-inclusives in Mexico.They talk about key differences between the two sister properties, their favorite culinary experiences across both resorts and what sets the ultra-luxe Secrets Impression concept apart from other high-end all-inclusives in the Playa del Carmen market. Also, they touch on why the two Secrets resorts are the perfect all-inclusive products to market to their cruise die-hards. The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode four will be posted June 12.Further resources:Tony and Kristy Adler Cruise and Resort Inc. Facebook Cruise and Resort Inc. Twitter Secrets Moxche Playa del CarmenSecrets Impression MoxcheAll Inclusives' Upscale Shift (Travel Weekly)The Secrets Impression Moxche truly is a luxury all-inclusive (Travel Weekly)Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.comTheme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicense  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Holly Ward, a destination wedding and honeymoon specialist and Sandals & Beaches Resorts exclusive agent with Alpha World Travel, and Addison Jaynes, founder and CEO of the Sandals & Beaches Resorts-focused concierge service Reliant Destinations USA, about their visits to the recently opened Sandals Royal Curacao and recently refreshed Sandals Royal Bahamian. They discuss some culinary highlights across both resorts, from favorite food truck offerings to the French fare at Sandals Royal Bahamian's updated La Plume restaurant, and notable design elements like Sandals Royal Curacao's sprawling infinity pool and Sandals Royal Bahamian's revamped Coconut Grove lounge area. Ward and Jaynes also talk about their respective decisions to go all-in on the brand as Sandals-exclusive advisors. The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month. Episode three will be posted May 8.   Further resources:  Holly Ward Alpha World Travel Alpha World Travel Facebook Alpha World Travel Instagram Addison Jaynes Reliant Destinations USA Mr TraveLux YouTube Sandals Royal Curacao Sandals Royal Bahamian Colorful bash kicks off Sandals Royal Curacao (Travel Weekly) Sandals celebrates the reopening of Royal Bahamian in Nassau (Travel Weekly) All-inclusives help guests explore beyond the resort gates (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the first episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Heather Bull, vice president at Peacock Travel Group, and Dawn Koutsky, owner of Wish to Wander Travel, about their recent visit to the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. They discuss the ease of flying in and out of Cancun these days, a few of the property's design and culinary highlights and several reasons the Playa Hotels & Resorts-managed Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya is a great option for destination weddings and groups. The pair also touch on the topic of booming interest in all-inclusive resorts, with Bull characterizing the surge in demand as “absolutely off the chart.”The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The Last Resort is in its first season with new episodes coming out the second Monday of each month.Episode two will be posted April 10.Further resources:  Heather Bull Peacock Travel Group Dawn Koutsky Wish To Wander Travel Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya Playa Hotels & Resorts Mark Benson of Hyatt's Inclusive Collection on luxury all-inclusives and advisors (Travel Weekly) An upscale shift in all-inclusive resorts (Travel Weekly)Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited?Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song:Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeodLicenseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're introducing The Last Resort, a new monthly hospitality-focused podcast hosted by Travel Weekly hotels editor Christina Jelski. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. From Caribbean all-inclusives to mountainside lodges, we'll be talking to advisors about their first-hand experiences at some of the most exciting and buzzed-about resorts around the world. Stay tuned for The Last Resort's first episode, which will go live next week. We'll be sharing insights from two advisors fresh off a visit to the recently opened Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya in Mexico!    Our theme song is Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod.  "Beachfront Celebration" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.