Podcast appearances and mentions of kristin karst

Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the increased interest in river cruising, evolving guest preferences and authentic cultural experiences in Colombia and beyond. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.   All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel  (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title on: Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean,  iHeartRadio,  Google, Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox.  

Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador for AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the AmaMagdalena, the first river ship to cruise in Colombia. The ship made its debut earlier this month sailing seven-night cruises on a culturally rich and scenic itinerary from Cartagena to Barranquilla (and the reverse). For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com. All our Insider Travel Report video interviews are archived and available on our Youtube channel (youtube.com/insidertravelreport), and as podcasts with the same title on: Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Listen Notes, Podchaser, TuneIn + Alexa, Podbean,  iHeartRadio,  Google, Amazon Music/Audible, Deezer, Podcast Addict, and iTunes Apple Podcasts, which supports Overcast, Pocket Cast, Castro and Castbox.

If you've worked in the travel industry for any length of time, you're probably familiar with Kristin Karst. The co-owner and executive vice president of river cruise line AmaWaterways, Karst is a staple at most travel industry conferences, perhaps best known for her bubbly personality, welcoming demeanor and close, personal relationships with travel advisors. However, many travel industry colleagues may not know Karst's unique backstory. She was born and grew up in Dresden, a German town along the Elbe River, in what was formerly Eastern Germany, under a regime that mostly kept Karst and her family isolated from the Western World. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Karst reflects on a childhood spent under the Socialist Unity Party of Germany, and how the limited travel her family was able to do allowed her to gain an appreciation for all that Eastern Europe had to offer and fostered an early love of tourism. Karst will also dive into what it was like when the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, and how she got her start in the travel industry as a leisure manager at American Express Travel, a role that she kept until she moved to Southern California and met Rudi Schreiner, her husband-to-be and the former president of Viking Cruises. Listeners will hear Karst reflect on the early days of AmaWaterways, how she keeps her work-life balance in check and what's behind her unwavering positivity. This episode is sponsored by Apple Leisure Group Vacations.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE AmaWaterways' debut in Colombia TravelAge West's 2023 WAVE Awards (AmaWaterways took home wins for River Cruise Line with the Highest Client Satisfaction; Best River Cruise Line for Families; and Best River Cruise Line for Luxury. Get in touch with AmaWaterways: 1-800-626-0126 ABOUT YOUR HOST  Emma Weissmann is the Managing Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly. TravelAge West also produces national trade publications Explorer and Family Getaways, as well as events including the Future Leaders in Travel Retreat, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala and the Napa Valley Leadership Forum.  ABOUT THE SHOW  TravelAge West's podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry's notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kristin Karst. executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about how many ships the luxury river cruise line has right now, where it's planning to cruise in 2024 and what specialty cruises it will offer. Karst also makes some news in this interview by saying AmaWaterways will briefly postpone the start of its eagerly awaited river cruises in Colombia until January 2025. She also says L Catterton, AmaWaterways' new investor, is fully supporting the river cruise line's management team and future strategy, and reveals even more new programs for travel advisors For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com. If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

I will share my very own personal story, as most of our Travel Advisor partners are entrepreneurs, like Rudi and me when we founded AmaWaterways and were growing our baby to a beautiful young adult that it is today. Part of our story are five things that have shaped by path and steered me in making the decisions that have brought me to where I am today. Those five things, I call my “5 P's”: Passion Partnerships Positive thinking Personal and Purpose I will be happy to discuss the importance of all 5 P's, and here is just a thought to the “Personal P”: The Travel industry is based on personal interaction and your successful as an independent travel professional is based on building long lasting personal relationships with a large enough group of repeating clients to meet your revenue goals. While the internet may be a great tool to gather pages of options or sort from low to high price options – it is not capable of recommending a wonderful cruise through Eastern Europe, par example, as it doesn't know that your client's grandparents came from Romania and they have never thought about going back until now. Or that a Christmas Time/ Holiday Cruise would be perfect for your clients this year as it looks that this will be the first Christmas where none of their kids are coming home. Or that a Wine Themed cruise on the Danube would be perfect for the recently divorced client nervous about travelling alone. Etc… One of the strongest tools in everyone's entrepreneurial toolbox is the personal relationships one can build with a client. While everyone's path to, and measurement of, success as an entrepreneur is different, I hope my stories related to my five “Ps” will help our Travel Advisors thinking about the things that truly matter in building the type of success they want for their travel business. Host Week 2024 Landing Site: https://har.news/hostweek View Host Week Magazine: https://har.news/2024HWmagazine Host Week Specials: https://har.news/deals Register for Host Week 2025: https://har.news/signupHW2025 7-Day Setup Course with HAR: https://har.news/7DScourse Host Week 2024 Survey: https://har.news/hwsurvey

Trade Secrets is on a holiday break, but in the meantime, we wanted to share some of Travel Weekly and TravelAge West's other podcasts with our listeners. This week's episode is Humans of Travel, hosted by Trade Secrets co-host Emma Weissmann, featuring AmaWaterways' Kristin Karst. If you've worked in the travel industry for any length of time, you're probably familiar with Karst. The co-owner and executive vice president of river cruise line AmaWaterways, Karst is a staple at most travel industry conferences, perhaps best known for her bubbly personality, welcoming demeanor and close, personal relationships with travel advisors. However, many travel industry colleagues may not know Karst's unique backstory. She was born and grew up in Dresden, a German town along the Elbe River, in what was formerly Eastern Germany, under a regime that mostly kept Karst and her family isolated from the Western World. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Karst reflects on a childhood spent under the Socialist Unity Party of Germany, and how the limited travel her family was able to do allowed her to gain an appreciation for all that Eastern Europe had to offer and fostered an early love of tourism. Karst will also dive into what it was like when the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, and how she got her start in the travel industry as a leisure manager at American Express Travel, a role that she kept until she moved to Southern California and met Rudi Schreiner, her husband-to-be and the former president of Viking Cruises. Listeners will hear Karst reflect on the early days of AmaWaterways, how she keeps her work-life balance in check and what's behind her unwavering positivity. Need advice? Call our hotline and leave a message: 201-902-2098 Email us: tradesecrets@travelweekly.com   Theme song: Sock Hop by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4387-sock-hop License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, and Lisa McCarl, owner of Millersville, Md.-based McCarl Travel, an Inteletravel affiliate talk with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about an upcoming new specialty river cruise focused on plant-based travel. This culinary specialty is a growing trend for many clients who rely on plant-based food for their health. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com or email iisa.mccarl@gmail.com. If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

If you've worked in the travel industry for any length of time, you're probably familiar with Kristin Karst. The co-owner and executive vice president of river cruise line AmaWaterways, Karst is a staple at most travel industry conferences, perhaps best known for her bubbly personality, welcoming demeanor and close, personal relationships with travel advisors. However, many travel industry colleagues may not know Karst's unique backstory. She was born and grew up in Dresden, a German town along the Elbe River, in what was formerly Eastern Germany, under a regime that mostly kept Karst and her family isolated from the Western World. In this episode of Humans of Travel, Karst reflects on a childhood spent under the Socialist Unity Party of Germany, and how the limited travel her family was able to do allowed her to gain an appreciation for all that Eastern Europe had to offer and fostered an early love of tourism. Karst will also dive into what it was like when the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, and how she got her start in the travel industry as a leisure manager at American Express Travel, a role that she kept until she moved to Southern California and met Rudi Schreiner, her husband-to-be and the former president of Viking Cruises. Listeners will hear Karst reflect on the early days of AmaWaterways, how she keeps her work-life balance in check and what's behind her unwavering positivity. This episode is sponsored by Apple Leisure Group Vacations.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE AmaWaterways' debut in Colombia TravelAge West's 2023 WAVE Awards (AmaWaterways took home wins for River Cruise Line with the Highest Client Satisfaction; Best River Cruise Line for Families; and Best River Cruise Line for Luxury. Get in touch with AmaWaterways: 1-800-626-0126 ABOUT YOUR HOST  Emma Weissmann is the Managing Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly. TravelAge West also produces national trade publications Explorer and Family Getaways, as well as events including the Future Leaders in Travel Retreat, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala and the Napa Valley Leadership Forum.  ABOUT THE SHOW  TravelAge West's podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry's notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I first discuss the latest trending news in the travel industry, including the Biden Administration's new rule requirement for airlines, Hawaii's tourism fee failing, and more.  Later, I welcome Kristin Karst - co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways - to discuss the latest in river cruising. Karst shares her insights on current trends she's seeing in river cruising, along with what's news with AmaWaterways.  The interview with Karst begins after the 12-minute mark.  Today's episode is brought to you by AmaWaterways.  From castles and capitals to vistas and villages, the Danube River connects some of Europe's most remarkable sites flowing through ten countries and four national capitals. The award-winning and family-owned river cruise line AmaWaterways offers a plethora of unforgettable itineraries along the iconic Danube River, perfectly suited to every traveler's interests. Whether you are passionate about music, history, architecture or gastronomy, the Danube River is the gift that keeps on giving. It is also home to the legendary AmaMagna, AmaWaterways' flagship, featuring spacious staterooms and unique amenities including four distinctive dining venues, a Zen Wellness Studio and a brand new pickleball court!  To set out on your river cruise journey, reach out to your preferred travel advisor or visit AmaWaterways.com today! Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I'm joined by travel advisor Ryan Doncsecz of VIP Vacations.  We first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including a possible pilot strike, summer travel challenges, and more.  Later, Doncsecz shares insights into what the true value of working with a travel advisor brings. He also gives key advice to fellow travel advisors on how they can combat the common myths about the profession in order to land more clients.  The value of a travel advisor discussion begins at the 17:45 mark.  Today's episode is brought to you by:  AmaWaterways, an award-winning and family-owned company that will become the first major river cruise line to explore Colombia with two newly designed ships setting sail for the magnificent Magdalena River in the spring and summer of 2024. As a pioneer in the river cruise industry, AmaWaterways caters to a growing demand from millennial travelers and multigenerational families and continues its leadership in active river cruising with the introduction of the first full-sized pickleball court on board their most spacious and luxurious ship, AmaMagna. The luxury river cruise line also recently announced enhanced sustainability efforts to reduce food waste as well as the installation of solar panels, aimed to further reduce fuel consumption. I'll discuss these important topics and many more with AmaWaterways' co-founder and executive vice president, Kristin Karst, during next week's podcast. Join us to learn more about the latest trends in the travel industry and how AmaWaterways is pioneering a new future for river cruising! Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report at the ASTA Global River Expo in Budapest about why AmaWaterways supported the Expo, what's new on the rivers of Europe for her river cruise line, new longer itineraries on those rivers, and the upcoming launch of cruises on the Magdalena River in Colombia in 2024. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com. If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.  

Rudi Schreiner, president and co-founder, and Kristin Karst, executive vice president, co-founder and co-owner AmaWaterways, talk with Alan Fine of Insider Travel Report about new river cruise products, including an update on their plan to conquer the Magdalena River in Columbia, and the latest trends, including guests wanting to travel longer and more back-to-back cruises, as well as the possibility of taking the world's longest river cruise, AmaWaterways' "Seven River Journey."  Karst also details the recent popularity of Egypt and the addition of a new ship or two there. For more information, visit www.AmaWaterways.com. If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.

This week I am joined by AmaWaterways Co-Founder and Executive Vice President, Kristin Karst. Kristin and I sat down to chat about her latest journey to Europe, as well as how AmaWaterways will welcome guests during the holidays. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kristin Karst, co-owner of the award winning AMA Waterways, romances us with castles and Christmas Markets, vineyards and exotic jungles, as she explains the explosive growth of River Cruising in Europe, Asia and Africa. What's included. What's onboard. What's to see. And how this intimate and luxurious travel experience stacks up against ocean cruising and land tours. We tease out her predictions for travel in 2023 - and as a bonus, a serious traveler's tips for your next trip. Plus, Deal Guru (and Millennial traveler) Jessica Deverson lands the big savings on Caribbean all-inclusive resorts like Sandals & Beaches, Secrets, Dreams, cruises from Royal Caribbean and AMA, and more! FREE 3 NIGHT STAY AT UNIVERSAL PARKS AND RESORTS HOTEL: https://notouristsallowed.com/raffle/  _ Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

What are special pleasures of a river cruise experience? The biggest differences between river cruising and ocean cruising? How can you convince a cruise skeptic to try river cruising? AmaWaterways co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst answer these questions, and tell us about some of the best river cruises in the world, on major rivers and also less-traveled ones in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa.Rudi and Kristin share thoughts about  typical travelers/activities on river cruises, and authentic travel experiences among some of the world's most beautiful rivers.  We also learn of innovations in the river cruise industry. How are ships designed today? And Rudi and Kristin end the episode with special memories of river cruises they especially love._____Rudi Schreiner, Co-Founder and President of luxury river cruise operator  AmaWaterways. Kristin Karst is Co-Founder and Executive Vice President. Family-owned and operated for almost 20 years. AmaWaterways offers river cruise experiences with 26 custom-designed ships sailing Europe's Danube, Douro, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, and Dutch and Belgian Waterways; Southeast Asia's Mekong River; Africa's Chobe River; Egypt's Nile River and Colombia's Magdalena River (2024)._____Podcast host Lea Lane blogs at forbes.com, has traveled to over 100 countries, written nine books, including Places I Remember, and contributed to many guidebooks. Contact Lea!  @lealane on Twitter; PlacesIRememberLeaLane on Insta; on  Facebook, it's Places I Remember with Lea Lane. Website: placesirememberlealane.com.  New episodes drop every other week, on Tuesdays. Please tell folks about us, and follow, rate and review this award-winning travel podcast! 

All about AmaWaterways with Kristin Karst co-owner and executive vice president. Kirstin joins Ken to discuss AmaWaterways river cruises which she co founded with Rudi Schreiner and the late Jimmy Murphy in 2002. Kristin details the history of AmaWaterways and what makes them so beloved by their customers and and travel advisors. Kristin delves into where they sail, what's included, the onboard wellness programs, culinary delights, and the welcoming atmosphere found on board which she credits to the outstanding staff and crew. Ken inquires about the many theme cruise experiences found with AmaWaterways and Kristen details the wine cruise experience and the various partnerships they enjoy with Adventures by Disney, and Backroads Travel. Ken and Kristin also discuss a few of their twenty five ships such as the Zambezi Queen, AmaDalia and AmaMagna. All of this plus a sneak peak at an upcoming new itinerary in South America. Timestamps: 0:00 Introducing Kristin Karst 0:30 Kristin 1:20 Amawaterways: Overview of origins, history etc. 4:26 Where AmaWaterways' ships sail 8:02 New Itinerary: Colombia, S. America 9:25 Wine Cruises 12:48 Ancestry partnership cruises 13:35 partnerships with Adventures with Disney­­ and Backroads 14:20 Multi-generational Cruising 17:00 Wellness Program on board 18:18 Culinary - the food 19:44 Restaurants on the AmaMagna 20:15 Local cuisine 21:50 new Buffet to table 22:30 The AmaMagna and where it sails 25:00 Inclusions with your fare 27:50 Loyalty program & sailings 29:10 Land Programs and guides 30:24 Tips for great vacations Contact Real Travel Experts: questions@realtravelexperts.com https://realtravelexperts.com/ https://www.facebook.com/RealTravelExperts/ https://www.instagram.com/realtravelexperts/ Image & Video Credits: Images and Video clips Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report about the outlook for river cruising in Europe for 2022 and beyond; what's going on with river cruising in other parts of the world, like Egypt, Africa and Southeast Asia; and new programs being developed right now to help travel advisors sell even more Amawaterways' cruises. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com. If interested, the original video of this podcast can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel  or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube. 

In der Auftaktfolge des DZT-Branchenpodcasts steht der wichtigste Überseemarkt für den Incoming-Tourismus in Deutschland im Fokus: die USA. Gastgeberin Petra Hedorfer begrüßt mit Matthew D. Upchurch von Virtuoso und Kristin Karst von AMA Waterways zwei CEOs und Big Player der Reiseindustrie. Nach dem großen Einbruch 2020 ist für das Reiseland Deutschland ein Aufschwung zu sehen, auch weil die Bundesrepublik im Zuge der Pandemie im Vergleich zu anderen Destinationen noch interessanter für Amerikaner geworden ist. Der Aspekt der Gesundheitssicherheit ist durch Corona in den Vordergrund gerückt, zudem gibt es einen Trend zum bewussteren Reisen: Naturnähe, exklusive Erlebnisse an besonderen Orten und Nachhaltigkeit werden immer wichtiger. Urlauber geben mehr Geld aus und bleiben länger. Außerdem befassen sich Frau Hedorfer und ihre Gäste mit den Fragen, wie das Vor-Corona-Niveau erreicht und sogar übertroffen werden kann und warum Luxusreisende durch einen besonderen Zugang zu exklusiven Orten dem kulturellen Erbe, der Natur und der Wirtschaft helfen können.

Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, talks with James Shillinglaw of Insider Travel Report on board her company's brand new AmaSiena on the Rhine. Karst details the new river ship plus AmaWaterways' upcoming sister ship AmaLucia and the company's first ship on the Nile, the AmaDahlia. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.  If interested, the original video of this podcast -- with supplemental pictures and video -- can be found on the Insider Travel Report Youtube channel  or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube. 

This week, host Eric Bowman reports from onboard the AmaSiena river cruise ship in Europe. Bowman shares his experience returning to Europe and discusses the latest trending news in travel from the past week. Later in the show, Bowman interviews Kristin Karst, co-founder of AmaWaterways. The two discuss the brand new AmaSiena ship and Karst shares her outlook on the future of river cruising. Have any feedback or questions? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com  and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AmaWaterways' Kristin Karst has come a long way, both physically and metaphorically, since her humble beginnings in Dresden, Germany.  In this episode, Kristin joins TMR to talk about her childhood, including growing up in Eastern Germany prior to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, and how she ended up working in hospitality. She also talks about growing AmaWaterways into the river cruise powerhouse it is today, including the philosophies that make the company so successful, and the future of the business. **Subscribe, like, and comment for more #travelagent content**  Subscribe to TMR's daily newsletter here: https://www.travelmarketreport.com/tmr-sign-up  Follow Dan McCarthy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DMcCarthy_NY

This week I sat down with Kristin Karst from AmaWaterways to discuss the company's newly announced plans to restart river cruising in Europe. Karst states that her team at AmaWaterways is "dancing the happy dance" as the company gears up for its summer river cruises.  When and where will these cruises take place? What will cruising be like this summer? What's coming up for Ama in the future? Listen to find out.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’re exploring the enchanting adventures of Ama Waterways River Cruises for families with Jazzmine Douse.

Rudi Schreiner, president & CEO, founder and co-owner of AmaWaterways; Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner; and Gary Murphy, senior vice president and co-owner, talk with James Shillinglaw about the trends driving bookings in the river cruise market for their luxury cruise line, when river cruising might begin again, new and renovated ships and much more. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.  Insider Travel Report Youtube channel or by searching for the podcast's title on Youtube.  

Kristin Karst, Executive Vice President and Co-Owner of AmaWaterways, leader in River Cruise industry. A native of Dresden, Germany, Kristin Karst has become one of the leading executives in the river cruise industry. After obtaining her degree in Economics of Tourism & Business Management and receiving an MBA from the University of Dresden, Kristin worked for American Express in Germany and Switzerland for eight years before relocating to the United States and entering the river cruise industry in 2000. In 2002, she co-founded AmaWaterways together with Rudi Schreiner and Jimmy Murphy. Together, they built 25 award-winning ships sailing the rivers of Europe, Asia, and Africa over the last 18 years. Through her role and entrepreneurial spirit, Kristin has successfully shaped the products and services of the company, while remaining one of river cruising's strongest advocates. She has been recognized as one of 2020's Top 100 Female Founders by Inc. Magazine for her relentless passion and commitment to creating the best experience for travel advisors, group leaders, and guests. In this episode, Kristin will share the secret to her success, how she uses her humble beginning to build her empire while staying grounded in the midst of chaos. Half way through, she will share what makes AmaWaterways a cut above the rest. For exclusive offer and complimentary consultation, please contact info@campsatsea or fsanders@dreamvacations.com. Ohana, time is non-refundable. Felicia Sanders 2021 Winner of Couple's Choice Awards by Wedding Wire. www.tripitlikeyoumeanit.com or www.campsatsea.com

This week I sat down with AmaWaterways' Co-Founder and Executive Vice President, Kristin Karst, to talk about how AmaWaterways stands out on the rivers of Europe and beyond.  Join me as I learn more about AmaWaterways and the company's philosophy to under promise and over deliver - which it always does.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since it's launch, AMA Waterways has been setting the industry's standard for luxury river boating. Its focus on quality, culture, employee happiness and passion has helped grow the company from 1 small river boat in Europe to a successful company with over 20 vessels sailing rivers through Europe, Vietnam, Cambodia and Africa. Tune-in for the inside scoop from co-founders Kristin Karst and Rudi Schreiner to learn the story behind AMA, its success and how the company was built on love.

Our guest is Gary Murphy, Co-owner and Senior Vice President of Sales for AmaWaterways.  An AmaWaterways river cruise is about more than the destination-it’s the journey.  It’s a journey that began when AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by three families, one of those three pioneers was Jimmy Murphy, Gary’s father.  The story continues today providing guests with a higher standard of luxury on European river cruises, Asia river cruises, or Africa river cruises as you see the world in luxury and comfort.  When you sail with the award winning AmaWaterways, you will experience the luxury of more- more ways to discover, more ways to indulge ,more onboard amenities, more acclaimed dining and more unique tour options.  The  three founding families,  Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and  Gary Murphy, look forward to welcoming you aboard  AmaWaterways

This week on Avid Travel With Britton Frost I am joined by AmaWaterways' President and Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner to hear what he has to say about low and high water and how it impacts river cruises. Podcast with Kristin Karst: https://soundcloud.com/brittonfrost/avid-travel-with-britton-5 German river levels chart: https://www.wetteronline.de/pegelstaende Check out the latest Cruise News at www.avidcruiser.com/blog/ www.rivercruiseadvisor.com/blog/ Contact me: britton.frost@gmail.com

This week on Avid Travel With Britton Frost I am joined by AmaWaterways' President and Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner to hear what he has to say about low and high water and how it impacts river cruises. Podcast with Kristin Karst: https://soundcloud.com/brittonfrost/avid-travel-with-britton-5 German river levels chart: https://www.wetteronline.de/pegelstaende Check out the latest Cruise News at www.avidcruiser.com/blog/ www.rivercruiseadvisor.com/blog/ Contact me: britton.frost@gmail.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak to a city analyst about potential bidders for the travel giant. Plus, we catch up with Frank del Rio of Norwegian Cruise line Holdings and Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst of AmaWaterways ahead of their induction into the British Travel and Hospitality Hall of Fame

Join me on my podcast as I talk about all things cruises. On my seventh episode, I am joined by a long time friend, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kristin Karst, to talk about how AmaWaterways has dealt with the low water levels on the rivers in Europe. Check out my writing on www.avidcruiser.com/blog/ www.rivercruiseadvisor.com/blog/ Contact me: britton.frost@gmail.com

Join me on my podcast as I talk about all things cruises. On my seventh episode, I am joined by a long time friend, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kristin Karst, to talk about how AmaWaterways has dealt with the low water levels on the rivers in Europe. Check out my writing on www.avidcruiser.com/blog/ www.rivercruiseadvisor.com/blog/ Contact me: britton.frost@gmail.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join me on my podcast as I talk about all things cruises. On my sixth episode, I am joined by a long time friend, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kristin Karst, to talk about multigenerational travel, wellness, and river cruising with mobility issues. Check out my writing on www.avidcruiser.com/blog/ www.rivercruiseadvisor.com/blog/ Contact me: britton.frost@gmail.com

Join me on my podcast as I talk about all things cruises. On my sixth episode, I am joined by a long time friend, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kristin Karst, to talk about multigenerational travel, wellness, and river cruising with mobility issues. Check out my writing on www.avidcruiser.com/blog/ www.rivercruiseadvisor.com/blog/ Contact me: britton.frost@gmail.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I sat down with Kristin Karst, co-owner of luxury river cruise company AmaWaterways, to find out what's new on the rivers for next year.  Kristin reveals more about their soon-to-launch double-wide river ship built solely for the Danube river.  

This week, Travel Today with Peter Greenberg comes from the AmaKristina riverboat in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Joining the program is Chairman and CEO of Virtuoso, Matthew Upchurch, on changes in travel patterns and travelers’ expectations, and the responsibility of sustainability in tourism. Mina Solanki, Editor of IAmExpat, discusses the expat life in the Netherlands and her special secrets of Amsterdam. Gertjan Broek, from the historic Anne Frank house, talks about one of Amsterdam’s enduring (and smallest) attractions, and the history they are still discovering there. Co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kristin Karst on the explosion of river cruises, new ports, and the new, more active river cruiser. There’s all of this and more as Travel Today with Peter Greenberg comes from the AmaKristina River Cruise Ship in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

This week, Travel Today with Peter Greenberg comes from the AmaKristina riverboat in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Joining the program is Chairman and CEO of Virtuoso, Matthew Upchurch, on changes in travel patterns and travelers’ expectations, and the responsibility of sustainability in tourism. Mina Solanki, Editor of IAmExpat, discusses the expat life in the Netherlands and her special secrets of Amsterdam. Gertjan Broek, from the historic Anne Frank house, talks about one of Amsterdam’s enduring (and smallest) attractions, and the history they are still discovering there. Co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kristin Karst on the explosion of river cruises, new ports, and the new, more active river cruiser. There’s all of this and more as Travel Today with Peter Greenberg comes from the AmaKristina River Cruise Ship in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Kristin Karst, VP and Co-Owner of AmaWaterways shares a little bit of AMA history and an inside peek at the many innovations planned for AmaWaterways river cruises in 2016 and beyond, especially on the rivers in Europe.  

Temecula Valley Winemaking, Conditions Identical to South Rhone Valley in France says Mick Wilson: During his interview with James Lowe, host of the Jiggy Jaguar Radio Show, Mick Wilson is asked to talk about the lovely grape growing climate in the Temecula Valley, south of Los Angeles. As of 2015 threr are forty wineries in operation in Temecula Valley with another twenty in the planning stages. Eli Callaway, famous for his golf clubs, was the first to break ground in Temecula when it was really an undeveloped area. The climate bears a striking resemblance to the South Rhone Valley in France with warm days and cool nights and a gap in the mountains, called the Rainbow Gap, brings a cool Pacific ocean breeze twenty miles inland. Temecula Valley got really noticed when South Coast Winery got the California Winery of the Year award in three of five years running. The well known regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma took notice as Temecula continued to produce quality Petite Sirah, Syrah, Cabernet, Zinfandel, Grenache, and other premium wines. Fifty different grapes are planted in the valley and the area is rapidly becoming a well known for fun and good wines. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Raw Start of Wilson Winery in Temecula Valley, South Of L.A., Mick Wilson on James Lowe Radio Show: A new area, between Los Angeles and San Diego about 20 miles inland, has just begun producing award winning wines and a number of new vineyards are in the planning stages. They heard about a winery for sale in the Temecula Valley, but when they inquired the owner decided not to sell, but the family was set on becoming vintners in the valley. They were originally from Minnesota and brought that Midwest hospitality to South Pasadena and then, after they purchased 20 acres of raw land, to Temecula Valley. At first it was a touch and go as the eight Wilson's plowed all money back into the business and lived in trailers on the property. But now they are one of the biggest in the area and have a huge facility for weddings, corporate events, weekend concerts with big picnic area and a tasting room that seats 300 people, many at massive bar to promote a more intimate environment. Now wineries in the area, which is similar to the South Rhone Valley in France, are winning awards and getting recognized for producing good wines. The Wilson Family is well established and hosted an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise in 2014 and will host another in 2015. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Real Reason Wine Cork Given, Smell Important, Taste Vital & Red Wine Temp Key says Paul Wagner: A real wine education awaits anyone who takes a class from Paul Wagner or goes on an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise he is hosting. In this segment of an interview with Paul Lasley, on the On Travel Radio Show, this renowned educator reiterates that wine experts never admit to knowing everything or close while haughty amateurs use it a social weapon. Wagner also notes that when he asks Master Sommeliers what wine to drink with a certain dish, the answer always came back that people should drink what they like. That is key. Then an explanation of the real reason the cork is presented, which came from verification of authenticity of vintage rather than smell, and then Wagner explains how the human sense of smell is far more powerful than taste. Another key factor is temperature. White is served chilled and that, Wagner explains, is good because it will warm up in the glass. But red wine is supposed to be served at room temperature, however, in today's world many homes hover around 72 degrees while castles of the past were lucky to get above 50 or 55 degrees. Wagner states that red wine should be chilled before being served, something which surprised Paul Lasley. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Wine Cruising with Paul Wagner & AmaWaterways, German & Napa Valley Wine Tastings in Luxury: In talking about his experience hosting an AmaWaterways Luxury Wine River Cruise Paul Wagner, a respected wine educator who teaches in Napa Valley, relates that the German Wine Institute provided him with some of the best German Dry Reislings for wine tastings along the cruise. Then the passengers were able to try the Napa Valley wines from some terrific wineries for additional tastings with food pairings. Cruising the Rhine River while tasting these fine wines was certainly a treat not only for Paul Wagner but all the passengers eager to learn more about wine, food and travel. Local wine with local food is the way to go as both have evolved together for hundreds if not thousands of years. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Wine, Food & Travel Triple Crown Winner, Wine Most Intimate Expression of Human Culture, Paul Wagner: In an enlightening segment of his interview with Paul Lasley, renowned wine educator Paul Wagner says that "wine is the most intimate expression of human culture." He tells the listeners that Italy believes that the most valuable export they have is wine, this from the land of sports cars and fashion houses. In California they make wine from 60 different grapes, in France 200, in Italy, 4,000 to 6,000. Each town has a story and winery that can be traced back hundreds of years. And this is what makes wine, food and travel go together so well. For more about AmaWaterways go to www.AmaWaterways.com. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Choucroute Dinner in Strasbourg w/ Paul Wagner & Chef Wife, Napa Valley Wine Tasting Styles: The final segment of the interview with famed wine educator Paul Wagner had him tell about one particular part of hosting an AmaWaterways luxury wine river cruise. They stopped in Strasbourg, one of the great cities of the world, and Paul and his wife went to dinner at a local establishment whose specialty was the Choucrote, which involves lots of port and sauerkraut. Paul's wife is a chef and when they were asked if they wanted a reisling or sylvaner wine they took both. After a fairly huge meal with copious amounts of wine they both thanked their blessings the AmaWaterways ship was within close walking distance. They slept much of the next day. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Full Radio Show: Paul Wagner, Wine Educator & AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise Host, on On Travel Radio: This podcast is the full radio show of Paul Wagner being interviewed by Paul Lasley, co-host of syndicated On Travel Radio Show, talking about being a wine educator, teaching in Napa Valley, the proper way to think about wine, food and travel and hosting an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise from Zurich to Amsterdam on the Rhine River. Paul Wagner believes that wine is the most intimate expression of human culture and shows his knowledge of wines from all over the world. They talk about a variety of European wines and how Italy considers wine its most important export, this beyond the famed sports car and fashion companies everyone knows. In California wine is made from 60 different grapes, in France 200, in Italy 4,000 to 6,000. Wagner noted that one could drive around Spain for a month and never taste all the different wines, with local foods of course, and never taste them all. He talks how wonderful it was to have a Choucroute dinner at restaurant in Strasbourg, how relaxing and yet invigorating the being an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise host and how he looks forward to the next one. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Tips for Enjoying Local European Wines, Restaurant House Wines Terrific, Local Wineries Smaller: The conversation in the interview of Paul Wagner, renowned wine educator, and On Travel Radio Talk Show host Paul Lasley turns the wide variety of wines in California, the United States and the world. California wine production has exploded, now with nearly 4,000 wineries statewide. Napa Valley is obviously the premier region but there more being added every year. In the United States there are about 10,000 winery operations located in all 50 states, which is amazing. And that is what makes it so much fun to travel; finding new wines along the road along with new experiences. Wagner, who hosted an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise on the Rhine River, then talks about how he was given an award from a prestigious wine organization in Spain and how flattered he was to receive such an honor. He noted that one could travel around Spain for a month and drink over a hundred different wines, while tasting the local foods, and thus broaden your wine horizons tremendously. Paul Lasley then asked about house wines in restaurants. Wagner explained that in the United States house wines would invariably be from a mass producer, and while they might be perfectly decent wines the situation in Europe is different and probably better. Restaurants in Europe get their house wines from small producers who are local operations and thus when one asks for a house it is usually really good. Lasley said he had never gotten a bad house wine in Europe. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.”

River Cruising with Wilson Creek Winery, Tasting Ancient Vintages & Great German Dry Reislings: Mick Wilson, one of the founders and co-owners of Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula Valley, is interviewed by Paul Lasley on the On Travel Radio Show about tasting fantastic German wines while hosting a luxury AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise on the Rhine River. He talked about tasting ancient vintages that are hundreds if not thousands of years in the making, the famous dry Reislings that are so much different than the sweet Reislings available in the United States. During an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise the vintner hosts bring wine from their vineyards that will be used in on-board wine seminars with food pairings and local wines for comparison. Each host also helps conduct tours and mingle with the passengers, many who are wine aficionados eager to learn about wine, food and travel. The watchwords from many wine experts are: local wines must be consumed with local foods because they have evolved together over hundreds if not thousands of years. For more about AmaWaterways go to www.AmaWaterways.com. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

Wine, Travel & Fun w/ Wilson Creek Winery, AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise Experience Beyond Compare: Mick Wilson was a co-host, with his parents, of an AmaWaterways Luxury Wine River Cruise on the Rhine River in Europe and he relates what an absolutely fabulous time he had on the whole experience. In the first part of this segment, during an radio interview with Paul Lasley on the syndicated On Travel Radio Show, Mick Wilson talks about how his family's American Midwest hospitality has been injected into everything about the Wilson Creek Winery. Large picnic grounds with live music every weekend, a wine tasting room with 300 bar style seats, large facilities for parties, weddings and corporate events, really a gathering place as much as a working vineyard. Then the conversation turns to the overall experience of an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise for hosts and passengers. Proceeding along the Rhine River in a luxury river cruise ship, accommodating 160 people, Mick Wilson went on to praise just about everything involved in his AmaWaterways River Cruise. Terrific crew offering attentive and first class customer service with gourmet chefs able to contribute mightily to making the wine seminars even better with fantastic food pairings; multiple level shore excursions with knowledgeable guides; five star cuisine served in buffet style or sit down; complimentary beer, wine, champagne and drinks; escorted bike tours or ability to take a independent bike excursion through a village or city; large common areas throughout the ship for relaxing and enjoying the castles and lovely countryside; nightly entertainment on board ship; multiple dining facilities and a personal dining room available for each passenger to take advantage of; daily bottled water delivered to the staterooms; state-of-the-art infotainment system in each room with unlimited internet access and a first run movie DVD library on board; on wine river cruises tours of local European vineyards, and much more. About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day.

Full Radio Show: Mick Wilson, AmaWaterways Wine Cruise Host, on Enjoying Wine & River Cruising: In this radio show Mick Wilson, co-founder and co-owner of Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula Valley, talks about the Wilson Creek Winery, Temecula Valley wine making and his experience hosting an AmaWaterways Wine River Cruise down the Rhine River with AmaWaterways. He, with his parents and wife, completely enjoyed hosting a wine river cruise and had nothing but high praise for AmaWaterways. From the first rate crew to five star cuisine; from the luxurious ship to the fascinating shore excursions; from the roomy staterooms to the large common areas around the ship for relaxing and watching the castles and scenery go by; from the help the Wilson's got with their wine seminars and food tastings from the crew and chefs to the tours of local European vineyards; from the terrific passengers eager to learn about wine and food to strolling through towns and cities with a rich history; from relaxing on the Sun Deck to taking bikes out for a tour of the beautiful countryside and much more. For more about AmaWaterways go to www.AmaWaterways.com About AmaWaterways: In 2015 AmaWaterways will continue to set the pace in all aspects of the river cruise industry throughout the world. Always look to expand their horizons, AmaWaterways began offering river cruises on the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar, formerly Burma, to compliment the extremely popular Mekong River Cruise vacations that include Vietnam and Cambodia. Europe is the mainstay of AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries and a number of creative themed cruises, such as Art Illuminations Cruises, Beer Cruises and Jazz Cruises, join the Wine River Cruise and Jewish Heritage Cruises lineup. No other river cruise line can match AmaWaterways on-board quality of service, first rate amenities, comfortable staterooms and the fact all the meat, fish, produce and baked goods are delivered from local vendors during the cruises. Top-notch chefs prepare meals to match the locality in which the ship is cruising while also giving patrons anything their hearts and stomachs may desire along the way. When long ships were starting to get built in Europe, AmaWaterways added the fewest number of new cabins in an effort to keep the product up to the standards set when the company was formed in 2002. Those standards, set by founders Jimmy Murphy, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, have never been compromise and continue to be improved every day. The AmaReina, which set debuted in 2014, is a sister ship to the AmaCerto and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 300 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and Infotainment; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours. AmaPrima, inspired by classic-ocean going yachts, provides the most distinctive river cruise experience with a magnificent glass elevator and unique design elements found onboard, as well as our exclusive “Twin Balconies.” The beautifully-decorated and spacious accommodations range in size up to 350 sq. ft. Relax in a heated Sun Deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar; enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in five dining venues. The ship also features a Fitness Center, Massage, Hair and Beauty salon; complimentary Internet access and first-run Hollywood movies; plus a fleet of bicycles to enhance your river cruise experience.

AMAWATERWAYS Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Kristin Karst oversees sales operations at the industry’s leading river cruise line.  A native of Dresden, Germany, Karst entered the travel industry during an eight-year tenure with American Express in Europe.  After moving to the U.S. in the late 1990’s, Karst served as a manager of groups and incentives for a river cruise line.  Within three years, she was launching a new river cruise line, AMAWATERWAYS, along with Rudi Schreiner and Jimmy Murphy, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year. Kristin’s relentless pursuit for excellence and her enthusiasm to provide travel agents with the best possible service and their passengers with the most memorable vacation experience, make her a unique stand-out in today’s river cruise industry. Karst holds an MBA from the University of Dresden.