RTE-Travel Talk

Cruise loyalty programs can feel confusing — and many travelers wonder if it’s really worth staying loyal to one cruise line just to earn perks. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with cruise expert Lola Vassiliadis of Cruise Holidays of Oakville and Lawrence Park to break down how cruise loyalty programs actually work in the real world. Together they explore: • How loyalty programs work on Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas • When loyalty perks start to deliver real value • Why some cruisers stay loyal — and why others don’t • How cruise line “family” relationships can let you carry status between brands • Practical advice for choosing the right cruise strategy for your travel style If you’ve ever wondered whether cruise points really matter — or whether they should influence your next cruise choice — this episode will help you decide.

If you’re planning a Danube river cruise and trying to decide between Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways, and Riverside Luxury Cruises, this episode of RTE-Travel Talk breaks it all down for you. Joined by river cruise specialist Christy Fitzharris of Wheels Up Travel Co., we compare these three popular river cruise lines side-by-side — looking at: • Cabin sizes and ship capacity • Crew-to-guest ratios • Inclusions (excursions, beverages, gratuities) • Onboard amenities and specialty dining • Luxury vs contemporary experience • Real per-person per-night cost comparison • Itinerary differences on the Danube We also explore who each cruise line is best suited for — from first-time river cruisers to travelers seeking a higher-touch luxury experience with butler service. If you're considering a 2026 or 2027 Danube sailing, this breakdown will help you better understand what you're paying for — and which river cruise line might be the best fit for your travel style.

Thinking about a Tauck River Cruise? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Annette Stellhorn of Accent on Travel and Lora Schapiro from Tauck to explore what truly sets Tauck River Cruises apart from other premium and luxury river cruise lines. We dive into: • What “distinctively inclusive” actually means • Why Tauck may cost more — and where the value really shows • Exclusive early-access experiences (like Monet’s Garden before the crowds) • Small group touring ratios and personal service • Cabin sizes and suite space compared to competitors • Who Tauck is best suited for — and who it may not be for • Common misconceptions first-time Tauck guests have • How Tauck blends luxury land touring with river cruising Tauck has been creating travel experiences for 100 years — and their river cruises reflect that heritage. With an average of just 104 guests onboard, dedicated Tauck Directors, and immersive shore experiences, this isn’t just river cruising — it’s a carefully choreographed journey. If you’ve been comparing Tauck vs Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon, or other luxury river cruise lines, this conversation will help you decide which experience truly fits your travel style.

Star Princess review and comparison with Holland America’s Rotterdam — real onboard insights, dining, entertainment, Princess Plus value, and who each ship is truly right for. Is the brand-new Star Princess really five stars — or is the hype getting ahead of reality? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Vickie Meeuwsen from Cruise & Travel Experts, who sailed on Star Princess during one of her very first voyages. She shares real-world insights into what the ship actually feels like once you’re onboard — from The Sphere and The Dome to dining, entertainment, stateroom comfort, and the Princess Plus package. And because many travelers are comparing ships before booking, we also put Star Princess side-by-side with Holland America’s Rotterdam, another premium cruise favorite. In this episode, we cover: ✔ First impressions of Star Princess ✔ The Sphere & The Dome explained ✔ Dining strategy & specialty reservation tips ✔ Spellbound by Magic Castle (the speakeasy experience) ✔ Princess Plus – is it worth it? ✔ Who Star Princess is best for ✔ Rotterdam vs Star Princess – vibe, demographics & entertainment ✔ Insider booking tips If you’re researching Princess Cruises, Holland America, or trying to decide between these two premium ships — this episode is for you.

AmaWaterways is redefining the Africa safari experience by combining luxury river cruising aboard the Zambezi Queen with iconic land safaris across Southern and Eastern Africa for 2026 and 2027. Africa is one of those destinations that changes you — and in this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, we explore why AmaWaterways’ Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises are leaving such a lasting impression on travelers. Host Ken Lawrence is joined by Todd Ney, Product Manager at AmaWaterways, and Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel to break down AmaWaterways’ newest Africa itineraries for 2026 and 2027. These journeys uniquely combine a boutique wildlife river cruise aboard the Zambezi Queen with immersive land safaris and luxury lodge stays across Southern and Eastern Africa. In this conversation, we cover: • What makes AmaWaterways’ Africa program different from traditional safaris • Why the Zambezi Queen is often the emotional highlight of the journey • New and expanded itineraries including Kenya, Namibia, Kruger National Park, and Victoria Falls • Who these trips are best suited for — and who often returns to Africa again and again • Real client reactions and common misconceptions about cost, comfort, and accessibility Ken also shares his own firsthand perspective on iconic destinations like Amboseli and the Maasai Mara, offering valuable insight for travelers considering Africa for the first time. If Africa has ever been on your bucket list — or if you’re wondering whether a river cruise and safari combination is right for you — this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to decide.

Thinking about a world cruise? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, we sit down with repeat world cruisers Jim and Diane Brill to share honest advice, real experiences, and what life is truly like on a world cruise. What is a world cruise really like—and why do some travelers choose to do it again and again? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Jim and Diane Brill, experienced world cruisers who recently completed a 124-day world cruise and are currently at sea once again on their next global journey. This conversation goes beyond itineraries and ports. Jim and Diane share what keeps drawing them back to world cruising—the friendships, the rhythm of life at sea, and how a world cruise evolves from a bucket-list trip into a lifestyle choice. If you’ve ever searched for: “Is a world cruise worth it?” “What is life like on a world cruise?” “Should I do a world cruise?” “World cruise advice for first timers” …this episode is for you. We talk candidly about: What daily life is really like onboard a world cruise Who a world cruise is (and isn’t) right for What surprises first-timers the most Why working with an experienced travel advisor matters for trips of this scale What keeps repeat cruisers coming back again and again

If your cruise begins or ends in Sydney, Australia, this expert guide reveals what to do before or after your cruise — from iconic sights to insider tips that most travelers miss. Discover why Sydney is more than a cruise gateway and how to make it a memorable part of your journey. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Reilly Reeves, travel advisor with Accent on Travel, and Liam Sweeney from Tourism Australia, to explore why Sydney is one of the most spectacular cruise cities in the world. From sailing under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and arriving at Circular Quay, to coastal walks, Indigenous culture, world-class food, and surprisingly easy logistics, Sydney deserves time on your itinerary — whether you’re arriving early or staying after your cruise. In this conversation, you’ll learn: Why arriving by cruise ship in Sydney is such a memorable experience What to do if you only have one day before or after your cruise Must-see icons like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge — and when to book them Insider tips that can make familiar experiences even better Unique things to do beyond the highlights, including coastal walks, wildlife, and culture Where to stay for cruise convenience near Circular Quay and White Bay Easy day trips from Sydney, including the Blue Mountains and coastal escapes How simple it is to get around Sydney using public transportation Cruise line and ship-size considerations for Australia & New Zealand itineraries Why Australia may be not as far as you think Whether this is your first visit to Australia or a return trip, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you plan smarter, travel better, and get more from your cruise experience.

Trying to decide between Crystal Cruises, Explora Journeys, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises? This expert luxury cruise comparison breaks down inclusions, ship style, and real cost-per-day value. Luxury cruising isn’t about price — it’s about choosing the experience that fits you. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken Lawrence sits down with Beth Schulberg and Lauren Matthews, the mother-daughter owners of Cruise & Travel Specialists, to compare three of the most talked-about luxury cruise lines at sea today: Crystal Cruises, Explora Journeys, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Together, we break down: What’s really included on each luxury cruise line How the ships feel onboard — classic vs modern vs ultra-luxury Who each cruise line is best suited for Ship size, stateroom experience, and onboard atmosphere A real-world cost-per-day comparison based on similar Mediterranean itineraries Beth has sailed on all three cruise lines, while Lauren brings a modern luxury and sales perspective from working closely with today’s high-end travelers. Their insights go beyond brochures and marketing — this is the kind of guidance you only get from travel advisors who actually go. If you’re trying to decide between Crystal, Explora, or Regent — or simply want to understand how luxury cruising has evolved — this conversation will help you choose with confidence.

If you’re searching for autism-friendly cruises or wondering whether a cruise vacation is possible for a family with autism or developmental disabilities, this interview explains exactly how it works. Traveling with autism can feel overwhelming — especially when it comes to cruising. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, we sit down with Amanda Storrer from Autism on the Seas to explore how families with autism and other developmental disabilities can enjoy a stress-free, fully supported cruise vacation. Autism on the Seas provides staff-assisted cruises and resort vacations designed specifically for children and adults with autism and other special needs. From priority boarding and show access, to mealtime assistance, respite care, sensory-aware planning, and trained onboard staff, their programs help families relax, reconnect, and truly enjoy their vacation. In this conversation, we cover: What autism-friendly cruising really looks like How Autism on the Seas supports families before, during, and after the cruise The types of disabilities and needs they can accommodate How parents, caregivers, and siblings benefit from respite services Real success stories that show how travel can be life-changing How travel advisors can work with Autism on the Seas for their clients Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, grandparent, or travel advisor, this episode offers practical answers, reassurance, and hope for families who may have thought cruising simply wasn’t possible.

Thinking about cruising New England without a passport, crowds, or a mega-ship? This in-depth review of American Cruise Lines’ Cape Codder Cruise explores one of the most unique small-ship itineraries on the U.S. East Coast. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken is joined by Chris and Tracy Archer of Goodlife Travel Group, who recently sailed the Cape Codder Cruise roundtrip from Boston. Together, they break down what makes this itinerary so special — from overnight stays in Provincetown to lobster bakes inside historic forts in Newport. 🚢 In this episode, you’ll learn: What sets American Cruise Lines apart from ocean and river cruise lines Why the Cape Codder Cruise feels more like a European river cruise — but in the U.S. A full walkthrough of the itinerary, including Provincetown, Martha’s Vineyard, Newport, Plymouth, and New Bedford What it’s like sailing on a 100-guest Coastal Cat ship Who this cruise is best suited for — and who it may not be right for When to go, what to pack, and why booking early matters If you’re looking for a relaxed, history-rich, and highly immersive way to experience New England’s coastline, this episode offers real-world insights you won’t find in a brochure.

Cunard may be leaving Alaska after 2026 — and this could be your last chance to experience Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, and Alaska’s most iconic scenery aboard the legendary Queen Elizabeth. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Real Travel Experts Rich Skinner and Linda Jackson to unpack why Cunard’s 2026 Alaska season is so rare… and why staterooms are already filling fast. We reveal: • Why 2026 may be Cunard’s final Alaska season for years • The secret behind how Cunard gets Glacier Bay access • Why these itineraries are NOT offered every year • Which sailings include Hubbard, Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm & more • Why Cunard’s British-style cruising makes Alaska feel different • What to expect from formal nights, high tea & ballroom dancing • Who Cunard is perfect for — and who should choose another line • Why solo travelers and culture-seekers love Cunard • Why booking early is essential if you want your preferred stateroom Whether you’re a Cunard fan, an Alaska first-timer, or a seasoned cruiser looking for something special, this may be your last chance to sail Alaska the Cunard way.

Crystal Cruises is back with a completely reimagined fleet, and today we sit down with the experts to uncover what’s new on Crystal Serenity, Crystal Symphony, and the future of luxury cruising. In this exclusive RTE-Travel Talk interview, Ken speaks with Matias Lira, Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Guest Services for Crystal Cruises, along with Real Travel Expert Beth Schulberg of Cruise & Travel Specialists, to dive into the rebirth of this legendary brand. Under the ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group and guided by Manfredi Lefebvre — the visionary behind Silversea — Crystal has elevated nearly every aspect of the onboard experience. The result? A luxury cruise product many are calling a “class of one.” In this episode, you’ll discover: ✨ Expansive new suites and dramatically reduced guest capacity ✨ A complimentary full Nobu restaurant — Umi Uma by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa ✨ Dining crafted by multiple Michelin-starred chefs ✨ The debut of Osteria d’Ovidio and Beefbar at Sea ✨ Broadway-caliber entertainment and enrichment programs ✨ Solo suites with no supplement ✨ One of the strongest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry ✨ Immersive itineraries and Abercrombie & Kent destination experiences Matias and Beth share insider insights on: • What truly sets “Crystal 2.0” apart • How the ships were redesigned from the inside out • The future of the fleet, including Crystal Grace (2028) • The new culinary partnerships transforming dining at sea • Itinerary design, demographics, and multi-generational appeal • The role of A&K in pre- and post-cruise land experiences Whether you’re planning a luxury cruise or simply curious about what’s possible at the very top end of ocean travel, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at Crystal’s remarkable transformation.

Planning a luxury Alaska cruise? Today we compare Regent Seven Seas and Silversea to help you choose the perfect upscale cruise experience. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Real Travel Expert Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to examine how these two world-class cruise lines stack up when sailing Alaska in 2025–26. Regent vs Silversea in Alaska We break down suite size, balcony comfort, itineraries, excursions, dining, and—most importantly—overall value. Whether you're dreaming of glacier viewing, immersive adventures, or the pinnacle of ultra-luxury cruising, this conversation will help you decide which line best fits your travel style. What You’ll Learn in This Video: • Regent vs. Silversea: suite & balcony differences • Which line offers more value with excursions • Culinary comparisons & specialty dining surprises • 2026 itinerary differences • Why small-ship luxury matters so much in Alaska • Larry’s personal recommendation—and why Larry also shares his personal pick if he were choosing purely for luxury and comfort, along with some unexpected perks you might not know about.

Thinking about sailing with Carnival Cruise Line or Princess Cruises? 🎥 In this candid and comprehensive episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with travel expert Ole Nordhavn of Concierge Travel Services to unpack everything you need to know before you book. From pricing, food quality, and stateroom size to onboard atmosphere, itineraries, and entertainment, Ken and Ole cover the 10 most frequently asked questions travelers have when deciding between these two iconic cruise brands. 👉 Topics Covered in This Episode 🎯 Who each cruise line is really for — first-time cruisers, families, couples, or multi-generational groups 💰 What’s included in your fare — Carnival’s à-la-carte model vs. Princess’ Plus & Premier packages 🛳️ Ship comparison — onboard vibe, space, and stateroom layouts 🍽️ Dining showdown — honest talk about buffet quality, specialty restaurants, and food value 🌎 Itineraries & destinations — where Carnival and Princess sail, and which is better for bucket-list adventures 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & kids programs — which cruise line offers the most fun for every generation 🎭 Entertainment & service — from live shows to towel animals, who really delivers the best onboard experience With Ole’s first-hand experience sailing both cruise lines—including a back-to-back Carnival voyage and multiple Princess sailings—this is an unfiltered, side-by-side comparison that gets to the heart of value versus experience.

Experience the world’s most exclusive way to travel—private jet expeditions with TCS World Travel—where 52 guests fly in luxury to bucket-list destinations with zero stress and full VIP service. Ever wondered what it’s REALLY like to travel the world by private jet? In this exclusive episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with luxury travel expert Annette Stellhorn of Accent on Travel to give you a behind-the-scenes look at TCS World Travel — the company offering ultra-luxury, fully-inclusive private jet expeditions to bucket-list destinations around the globe. Annette has personally experienced a TCS expedition and shares what most people never get to see: the jet, the service, the guides, the pricing, the surprises, and who this kind of travel is really for. From Northern Lights flights to around-the-world itineraries, she breaks it all down — no fluff, just the facts. ⭐ What You’ll Learn in This Video: • What TCS World Travel is and how it works • What the private jet experience is REALLY like (yes, it’s amazing) • How many guests travel & what kind of travelers book these trips • All-inclusive details: hotels, meals, excursions, luggage handling, guides • Pricing & value: $75,000 trips vs $200,000 around-the-world expeditions • Custom private travel vs group departures • Who this experience is best suited for (and who it’s not) • Insider tips from someone who has traveled with TCS

Fresh from her voyage aboard Azamara Onward, Anne-Marie shares what makes this 10-night journey from Venice to Istanbul so extraordinary — from Azamara’s legendary White Night Party in Santorini to the intimate Azamazing Evening in Slovenia’s town square. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden gems like Zadar’s Sea Organ, Corfu’s kumquat distilleries, and the breathtaking cisterns beneath Istanbul. Learn what sets Azamara apart from other cruise lines such as Oceania and Viking, including their focus on destination immersion, warm personalized service, and flexible all-inclusive options — where you can even upgrade drink packages individually. Anne-Marie also offers practical tips for pre- and post-cruise stays in Venice and advice for travelers with mobility challenges. From Venice’s canals and Slovenia’s folk music to Santorini sunsets and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, this episode captures the very essence of what makes Azamara such a standout in small-ship cruising.

Thinking about cruising to Antarctica? 🧊 Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken Lawrence and Antarctica expert Nanci Ott of Tinker Travel as they reveal the best expedition cruise lines to the White Continent — Seabourn, Atlas Ocean Voyages & Aurora Expeditions — and what makes each unique. Dreaming of an Antarctica expedition cruise? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken Lawrence sits down with Nanci Ott of Tinker Travel to explore what it’s really like to sail to the world’s last great wilderness — and to compare three of the top expedition cruise lines: Seabourn, Atlas Ocean Voyages, and Aurora Expeditions. 🧊 What You’ll Discover Is it safe to cruise to Antarctica? How cold is it really — and what should you pack? Crossing the Drake Passage vs Flying the Drake 🛫 When to go for penguin chicks vs whale season 🐧 🐋 What a day on board a true expedition cruise looks like How Seabourn (luxury), Atlas (modern boutique), and Aurora (true expedition) differ What’s included — and what adventures cost extra (kayaking, camping, polar plunge!) ⚓ Which Line Is Right for You? Seabourn – Ultra-luxury comfort, spacious suites & world-class dining. Atlas Ocean Voyages – Boutique luxury style with a social atmosphere and approachable pricing. Aurora Expeditions – Smaller ships, true exploration, and maximum time ashore. 🧭 Expert Tip “Just go — Antarctica will change you forever,” says Nanci. From blue icebergs to fearless penguins, it’s a journey like no other.

Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera to take the mystery out of Silversea’s new all-inclusive pricing structure. With the end of Silversea’s popular Door-to-Door and Port-to-Port programs, many cruisers are wondering—is Silversea still all-inclusive? In this insightful interview, Larry and Ken break down the differences between the All-Inclusive Plus, All-Inclusive, and Last Minute fares. Learn how refundable deposits, onboard credits, and excursion flexibility now vary between tiers—and what this means for travelers seeking the best value on luxury cruises.

Step aboard AmaWaterways’ Secrets of Egypt & the Nile and discover why this luxury river cruise is being called a once-in-a-lifetime journey through ancient wonders and five-star comfort. Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and Neil Dudley, Product Manager for AmaWaterways, to explore one of the most unforgettable travel experiences on Earth — AmaWaterways’ Secrets of Egypt & the Nile.

Avalon Waterways or Riviera River Cruises — which one delivers the better Burgundy & Provence experience? Join RTE-Travel Talk as we compare these two leading European river cruise lines side by side to help you decide which is the perfect fit for your next journey through France.