RTE-Travel Talk

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.

Planning a Mediterranean cruise? Discover expert insights as we compare Regent Seven Seas, Explora Journeys & Celebrity Cruises to help you choose the perfect luxury or premium Med adventure. 🌊 Is the Mediterranean on your cruise bucket list for this year or next? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken sits down with travel expert Christy Fitzharris of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise to compare three of the top cruise lines for exploring the Mediterranean: Regent Seven Seas, Explora Journeys, and Celebrity Cruises. Christy shares why the Mediterranean remains one of the world’s most sought-after cruise destinations and highlights what sets each line apart. From Regent’s seamless all-inclusive luxury, to Explora Journeys’ family-friendly luxury concept, to Celebrity Cruises’ versatile multi-generational appeal with The Retreat, viewers will discover the unique experiences each cruise line offers. We dive into itineraries that go beyond the classic Barcelona–Rome routes, touching ports in Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Tunisia, Greece, Turkey, and even Egypt with an overnight in Alexandria. You’ll learn about inclusions, cabin sizes, onboard experiences, pricing per night, and what travelers should consider when choosing between luxury and premium options. Christy also offers pro tips for multi-generational families, insights into kids’ programs on luxury ships, and her personal highlights sailing with each line—including her daughter’s love of Celebrity’s kids’ club (even more than Disney’s!). Whether you’re planning your first Mediterranean cruise or a return trip seeking new itineraries, this interview provides expert advice to help you find the perfect fit.

Experience Alaska like never before on Seabourn’s luxury small-ship cruise. From glaciers and whales to intimate service and world-class dining, Seabourn Quest offers the ultimate Inside Passage adventure. Join Ken with travel expert Barb Chamberlain and her daughter Stephanie as they share their 7-day journey from Vancouver to Juneau—packed with wildlife encounters, cultural ports, and insider tips for your next Alaska cruise. Perfect for anyone considering Seabourn, luxury cruising, or exploring Alaska in style. Discover why a Seabourn Alaska cruise offers the ultimate way to explore glaciers, whales, and breathtaking scenery—luxury small-ship style with personalized service and unforgettable adventures. Alaska is on so many travelers’ bucket lists—but what makes experiencing it on a luxury small ship like Seabourn truly unforgettable? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and her daughter Stephanie Lemmon to relive their spectacular 7-day Glaciers & Alaska Inside Passage sailing on the Seabourn Quest, from Vancouver to Juneau. Barb and Steph share how Seabourn’s intimate, elegant atmosphere, personalized service, and expedition-style experiences create a completely different Alaska cruise than the large ships can offer. From kayaking and Zodiac adventures to up-close moments with whales, sea otters, eagles, and the Hubbard Glacier, this Seabourn Alaska itinerary was filled with once-in-a-lifetime encounters. The conversation also covers: The luxury of small-ship cruising: spacious suites, fine dining, and a relaxed “country-club casual” vibe that sets Seabourn apart from other Alaska cruise lines. Memorable ports of call: Ketchikan’s Jellyfish Donuts and Creek Street, Sitka’s cultural treasures, Skagway’s White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and Juneau’s float-plane adventure to the Taku Glacier Lodge. Tips for Seabourn travelers: booking specialty dining and excursions early, packing for variable Alaska cruise weather, and making the most of Seabourn’s included extras (like expedition jackets). The joy of mother-daughter cruising and creating lifelong memories together. Whether you’re planning your first Alaska cruise or considering a return on a smaller, luxury line, this review highlights why many travelers rate Seabourn’s Alaska experience a perfect 10/10—a true blend of adventure and luxury

Thinking about upgrading to a premium cruise? We compare Princess Cruises vs. Celebrity Cruises, breaking down the top 10 differences in dining, staterooms, itineraries, inclusions, and more. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Kathy Schmauss of Cruise Holidays of Viera to compare two of the best premium options at sea: Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. Together, we count down the Top 10 things you need to know when comparing Princess vs. Celebrity, covering: Ship size, style & atmosphere Dining experiences & specialty restaurants Staterooms, suites & solo cabins Entertainment & onboard vibe Itinerary strengths: Princess in Alaska & the British Isles vs. Celebrity in the Med & Greece Technology & loyalty perks Service & crew-to-guest ratios Value inclusions: Princess Plus vs. Celebrity’s Simply More Passenger demographics & family friendliness Kathy also shares her upcoming Princess British Isles group cruise (2027) and her next sailing aboard Celebrity Apex out of Port Canaveral—proof that both lines offer something special for today’s savvy traveler. 👉 Whether you’re considering your first premium cruise or deciding between these two outstanding brands, this episode delivers the insights you need to book with confidence.

Discover the Rocky Mountaineer luxury train! Journey from Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise with stunning Rockies views, GoldLeaf vs SilverLeaf service, gourmet dining & travel tips. Is a luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies on your bucket list? 🚂 In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken Lawrence sits down with Mindy Baker of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise to review her recent adventure aboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West. Mindy shares everything you need to know about this iconic daylight-only rail journey, including: 🌄 The breathtaking scenery from Vancouver through Kamloops to Banff or Lake Louise. 🚆 The difference between GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf Service – from panoramic dome cars to gourmet dining and outdoor viewing platforms. 🏨 The seamless hotel stays each night, luggage handling, and luxury touches that make the experience stress-free. 👨‍👩‍👧 Who this trip is perfect for – from families and multigenerational travelers to solo adventurers and nature lovers. ♿ Accessibility and comfort features for all travelers. 🧳 Travel tips for booking, the best season to go, and how to combine your Rocky Mountaineer journey with an Alaska cruise for the ultimate bucket-list vacation. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, luxury traveler, or simply dreaming of Canada’s most stunning landscapes, this episode will inspire your next great journey.

Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with travel expert Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and her client Carol, who just returned from this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Together, they share everything you need to know—from Cape Town’s Table Mountain and Robben Island to the wildlife-filled Zambezi Queen river cruise, plus unforgettable stops at Victoria Falls, Johannesburg, and Kruger Park. Highlights include herds of elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras on safari; sunset cruises along the Chobe River; cultural encounters in local townships; and even the option to add a Rwanda gorilla trek extension. Carol explains why this trip was truly life-changing, with AmaWaterways delivering first-class hotels, gourmet food, and seamless travel from start to finish. If Africa is on your bucket list, this episode will inspire you with insider tips, expert advice, and real guest experiences to help you plan your own dream trip.

d America and Princess Cruises are the top choices—and whether a 7-day Alaska cruise or an extended cruise tour with Denali and Fairbanks is the best way to see Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and culture. In this episode of RTE Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Tim Hersh of Cruise Holidays and Tours of Topeka to break down the differences, the costs, and what you can truly expect from each option. A 7-day Alaska cruise with Holland America or Princess Cruises offers breathtaking views of the Inside Passage, iconic ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, and glacier encounters that rival any destination on earth. You unpack once, enjoy life onboard, and take in the scenery from the ship’s perspective. But if you want to immerse yourself deeper into Alaska’s culture, wildlife, and wilderness, a cruise tour is the way to go. Tim explains how extending your journey to Denali, Fairbanks, or even the Yukon adds a completely new dimension—think dome train rides, journey hosts, wilderness excursions, and unique overland adventures. We also cover: When to go for the best experience (and best pricing). Whether you should splurge on a balcony or save with an inside cabin. How costs differ between a cruise and cruise tour. Why Holland America and Princess Cruises are the leaders in Alaska. Insider tips on meals, luggage transfers, and what surprises travelers the most. Bucket list moments like midnight golf in Fairbanks and experiencing 20 hours of daylight in June! If you’ve ever wondered which Alaska option is right for you—or if you’re planning that “once-in-a-lifetime” trip—you won’t want to miss Tim’s expert insights.

Is an African safari on your travel bucket list? Join us on a luxury African safari through Kenya and Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent—featuring game drives in the Maasai Mara, gorilla trekking, hot air balloon rides, and unforgettable wildlife. Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Christy Fitzharris, African safari specialist and founder of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise.Christy has just returned from an unforgettable 8-day luxury safari in Kenya and Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent—and she’s here to share all the details. From thrilling game drives on the Masai Mara, a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the savannah, and even a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, Christy’s journey brings the magic of Africa to life. Discover the difference between private conservancies and national parks, the unique safari lodges she stayed in, and how Abercrombie & Kent makes the experience seamless. We’ll also explore: ✅ What a typical safari day looks like ✅ Special moments with lions, elephants, and hippos ✅ How close you can really get to the animals ✅ The truth about safari pricing and what’s included ✅ Tips for choosing the best time of year to go If you’ve ever dreamed of Africa—or are planning your own safari adventure—you won’t want to miss this episode!

Looking for the perfect luxury cruise? 🚢✨ In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Laurie Bixler of Cruise & Travel Specialists to compare three of today’s most talked-about luxury cruise lines: Seabourn, Viking Ocean, and Explora Journeys. Laurie has personally sailed with all three, and she shares her insider knowledge on what makes each line truly special — from ship size and suites to dining, service, and itineraries. Whether you’re drawn to Seabourn’s ultra-luxury traditions, Viking’s “thinking person’s cruise,” or Explora’s modern resort-style luxury, this in-depth conversation will help you decide which cruise line best matches your personal style of travel. We’ll cover: 🛳️ Seabourn’s intimate ships & signature touches (like caviar on demand and world-class cruise directors) 🧳 Viking Ocean’s destination-focused itineraries & all-veranda staterooms designed for curious travelers 🌍 Explora Journeys’ fresh approach to luxury cruising with all-suite living and a chic, resort-inspired design 🍷 Dining experiences across the lines — from buffets and freestanding stations to wine pairings and dining under the stars 👩‍✈️ Service, inclusions, and value for your travel dollar, including crew-to-guest ratios and what’s really included ⚓ Itinerary differences: smaller ports, intense destination days, and world cruise opportunities 💡 How to work with a travel expert to choose the right line and maximize your luxury cruise experience If you’ve ever wondered which luxury cruise line is right for you — or if you’re new to the world of luxury cruising and want to know where to start — this episode is a must-watch. You’ll come away with clear comparisons, real traveler experiences, and plenty of tips to make your decision easier.