No Tourists Allowed - An Insider's Guide to Travel

Ditch the group! VoiceMap CEO Iain Manley reveals how self-guided audio tours let you explore at your own pace. Plus: travel news and a luxury getaway!Episode ResourcesVoiceMap Official WebsiteThe Royal Mile: A History of Death and Dirty Dealing TourSri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa RequirementsCondé Nast Traveler’s Guide to the World’s Largest AirportsTired of awkward group tours and generic guidebooks dictating your travel itinerary? In this episode of No Tourists Allowed, Mike and James sit down with VoiceMap CEO Iain Manley to explore how GPS-enabled audio tours are revolutionizing the way we experience new destinations. Tune in to discover how you can unlock immersive, locally guided stories straight from your smartphone, ensuring your next trip is incredibly authentic and entirely on your own schedule.Beyond the technology of self-guided walking tours, the conversation dives into the fascinating intersection of authentic human storytelling and AI in the travel industry. The guys also unpack the latest global travel news, from Sri Lanka’s enticing new digital nomad visas to the mind-boggling scale of the world's largest airports. Finally, James and Mike tackle the controversial debate over shrinking airline economy seats—are passengers getting bigger, or are airlines unfairly sacrificing basic human comfort for profit? Check out the show notes for links to download the VoiceMap app, and be sure to subscribe and leave a review so you never miss an episode. Head over to notouristsallowed.com to sign up for our new newsletter and secure your entry to win a free, all-inclusive luxury vacation in Mexico!

Discover authentic European travel tips for Cologne and Vienna. We cover Kölsch beer, smart walking tour apps, and finding local eats without the tourist traps.Episode ResourcesCologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) Official WebsiteVotivkirche Vienna Official WebsiteCasa Labra Madrid - Historic Tapas BarTheFork - Restaurant ReservationsBeli App - Restaurant Lists & SocialFITUR - International Tourism Trade FairFresh off a whirlwind four-city trip, Mike is back to share his recent adventures through Germany and Austria, proving you don't need a crowded tour bus to see the sights. In this episode, we explore the nuances of authentic European travel, moving past the typical guidebooks to find the real culture hidden in plain sight. From navigating the massive spires of Cologne to mastering the efficient train systems of Vienna, we break down how to explore these historic cities on your own terms.We dig into the specific tools and experiences that elevate a trip from standard to spectacular, including the unique rules of drinking Kölsch beer and the best ways to utilize public transport. You’ll learn about MapView, a game-changing app for self-guided digital walking tours that lets you ditch the umbrella-holding guides. We also debate how to find memorable dining experiences—and avoid rookie mistakes like eating Italian food in Bangkok—by utilizing apps like The Fork and Beli to uncover local gems.If you are an independent traveler who wants to maximize your time abroad without feeling like a typical tourist, this conversation is essential listening. We also recap the massive FITUR trade show in Madrid and drop the first set of clues for our upcoming all-inclusive Mexico vacation giveaway. Tune in to upgrade your travel tech stack and learn how to navigate Europe's best cities like a local.

Discover the latest in travel tech. From biometric airport IDs to the explosion of new cruise ships 2025, learn how to travel smoother and smarter this year.Travel is changing fast, from how you clear security to how you vacation on the high seas. This episode breaks down why keeping an eye on new cruise ships 2025 is essential for your next getaway as the industry prepares to launch fifty new vessels by the end of the decade. We look at the sheer scale of this growth and why these massive investments mean better value and more diverse options for every type of traveler.We also tackle the logistics of getting to your destination without the headache. We compare Mobile Passport vs Global Entry to see which one actually saves you more time and look at how biometric airport security technology is finally streamlining US terminals to match international standards. Beyond the tech, we explore niche travel trends like luxury river cruises Colombia and culturally themed soulful journeys that take you deep into local heritage.Whether you are a frequent flyer looking to master airport shortcuts or a cruiser hunting for the best value on the water, this episode provides a roadmap for the next few years of travel. If you want to stay ahead of the trends and maximize your personal bucket list, this conversation is for you.

Have you ever dreamed of floating down the Danube, exploring medieval towns and world-class cities from the comfort of a luxury ship? In this episode of No Tourists Allowed, we pull back the curtain on the complete European river cruise experience, giving you a firsthand account of what it's truly like to travel from Budapest to Vienna. We're also tackling major travel news as American Airlines sparks outrage by changing its loyalty program, and we’re revealing an insider tool that will completely change how you book flights with points. Is a river cruise right for you, and is American devaluing its most loyal customers? Let’s dive in.Join hosts and travel industry veterans Mike Putman and James Ferrara as they share their latest adventures and insights. James has just returned from an incredible AmaWaterways cruise along the Danube River and provides a full review of the journey. He details the intimate, upscale atmosphere of the small ship, the all-inclusive shore excursions in historic ports, and the incredible regional food both on and off the vessel. From the stunning architecture of Budapest to the musical history of Vienna and a side trip to Salzburg, you'll learn exactly why this is one of the best ways to see Europe. This segment offers a deep dive into the river cruise lifestyle and a direct comparison of AmaWaterways vs Viking, helping you decide which line fits your travel style.But that's not all. The hosts also discuss a quick business trip to Georgia, sharing their top picks for the best restaurants Savannah has to offer. Hear their authentic reviews of the historic 18th-century mansion restaurant, The Pink House, and the chic Art Deco supper club, The Grey, located in a restored 1930s bus station. In travel news, we break down the controversial decision by American Airlines to stop awarding points on certain fares, exploring the impact of the American Airlines Basic Economy loyalty points change and what it means for frequent flyers. And for our travel hack of the episode, Mike reveals Seats.Aero, a powerful award travel search tool that makes it easy to find amazing deals on business and first-class flights using your points. We’ll show you how to find award travel deals you never thought possible. Finally, stick around as we discuss the recovery of Jamaica's tourism after the recent hurricane and announce the lucky winner of our luxury Alaska cruise giveaway with Princess Cruises!About Your Hosts:Mike Putman and James Ferrara are seasoned travel industry executives and lifelong explorers. In "No Tourists Allowed," they share their unfiltered opinions, expert advice, and authentic travel stories from years on the road. From luxury cruises to hidden local gems, they guide you on how to travel more meaningfully and avoid the tourist traps.Timestamps / Chapters:(00:00) Intro: American Airlines Devalues Points(02:22) Celebrating Recent Travels & Industry Awards(03:35) Savannah, GA Trip Report: Hotels & Restaurants(07:20) Review: The Pink House, Savannah's 18th Century Mansion Restaurant(09:02) Review: The Grey, Savannah's Art Deco Supper Club(11:03) The Ultimate European River Cruise Experience on AmaWaterways(15:50) What is a River Cruise Really Like?(20:05) Comparing River Cruise Lines: AmaWaterways vs Viking(25:12) Airline News: The American Airlines Basic Economy Loyalty Points Controversy(31:20) Travel Hack: How to Find Award Travel Deals with Seats.Aero(34:14) Announcing the Alaska Cruise Giveaway Winner!

Is a river cruise just a floating hotel, or can it be one of the most authentic ways to travel? In this episode, we explore the world of Riviera Travel river cruises with the brand's North American President, Stuart Milan. As the UK's #1 river cruise and tour operator makes its official entry into the US market, we uncover what "upper premium" travel really means and ask the crucial question: How can you find a genuine, meaningful cultural connection while traveling along Europe's most historic waterways?Stuart Milan reveals the secrets behind Riviera Travel's 40-year success and its expansion as Riviera Travel US. We dive deep into what sets their luxury ships and curated itineraries apart, from their intentionally smaller passenger capacity to their upcoming all-inclusive drinks package in 2026. Stuart explains the unique value proposition of an upper premium river cruise, which combines luxury hardware with incredible value, providing an experience that sits comfortably above standard premium lines without the formalities of ultra-luxury. Discover how these journeys offer an authentic European river cruise experience by docking directly in the heart of medieval cities and ancient towns along the Danube, Rhine, and Douro rivers. You'll learn how you can step off the ship and be immediately immersed in the local culture.Beyond the destinations, we unpack Riviera's specialized programs that cater to specific travel styles. Stuart gives us an inside look at their robust solo travel river cruises, which include entire sailings dedicated exclusively to solo travelers—not just a few single cabins on a regular cruise. He also highlights their comprehensive group travel offerings, confidently stating they have one of the best propositions in the market for groups. We also discuss Riviera's "Grand Tours," which combine their award-winning land tours with their signature Riviera Travel river cruises for a longer, more immersive European vacation. From Stuart's personal journey through the travel industry to the intricate details of what makes a thoughtful holiday, this conversation is your guide to a better way of river cruising.About Our Guest:Stuart Milan is the President of Riviera Travel North America. With a lifelong career in the travel industry, from starting in customer service to launching startup travel brands, Stuart brings a wealth of experience to his role. He is now spearheading the expansion of Riviera Travel, the UK's largest river cruise operator, into the United States, aiming to bring their award-winning "upper premium" European experiences to American travelers.Timestamps / Chapters:(00:00) Can River Cruising Be an Authentic Way to Travel?(03:20) Getting to Know Stuart Milan: His Personal Travel Rituals(08:55) Stuart's Journey: From Customer Service to Travel Company President(14:00) Introducing Riviera Travel: The UK's #1 River Cruise Line Comes to the US(21:00) Defining the "Upper Premium" River Cruise Experience(24:00) Beyond Europe: The Future of Riviera's Global Itineraries(25:10) Combining Land & River: An Inside Look at Riviera's "Grand Tours"(28:15) The "No Tourists Allowed" Debate: Is a River Cruise Truly Authentic?(38:00) Who Travels with Riviera? A Deep Dive into Solo and Group Cruises(45:00) Exciting Giveaway: How to Win a Luxury Princess Cruise to AlaskaEpisode ResourcesLearn more about Riviera TravelDiscover Riviera's Solo Traveler CruisesExplore the Grand ToursEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Tired of business trips that feel like a copy-paste of the same sterile ballroom and conference room? How do you transform a mandatory work trip into a memorable, culturally-rich experience? In this episode, we tackle the secret to planning truly authentic corporate events that leave a lasting impact on attendees. We sit down with a master of the craft, Renee Jacobs, the Chief Operating Officer of MGME (McVeigh Global Meetings and Events), to uncover how professionals can escape the corporate bubble and genuinely connect with a destination.Join us as Renee Jacobs pulls back the curtain on the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. She shares a wealth of corporate event planning ideas that go far beyond the typical agenda. We explore the powerful shift in MICE industry trends toward creating genuine "sense of place" activities, from sourcing local food for a surprise culinary competition to organizing city-wide "dine-arounds" for groups of up to a thousand people. Renee reveals how selecting unique corporate event venues—like historic castles in Ireland, the iconic Raffles Hotel in Singapore, or the Alvear Palace in Buenos Aires—is the critical first step in setting the stage for an immersive experience.The conversation also delves into the growing importance of integrating corporate social responsibility activities into the itinerary. Renee explains how CSR initiatives, such as local beach cleanups, tree planting, or bringing supplies to a local school, can be powerfully grounding experiences that connect attendees to the community in a meaningful way, even on a tight schedule. From fishing for piranhas in the Amazon to multi-million dollar gala dinners at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, Renee shares unforgettable stories and practical strategies that prove business travel doesn't have to be boring. This episode is packed with inspiration for creating your own authentic corporate events.About Our Guest:Renee Jacobs is the Chief Operating Officer of MGME (McVeigh Global Meetings and Events), a leading global agency specializing in event planning for Fortune 500 companies, life science organizations, and major associations. With a passion for travel that began in high school, Renee has built a remarkable career in the MICE industry. Her journey includes roles at The Compass Group, the Journal of Commerce, and WorldTEK, where she honed her expertise in planning large-scale commercial trade shows, exhibitions, and incentive trips across the globe before joining MGME and rising to her current role as COO.TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS:(00:00) Win a Luxury Cruise to Alaska!(05:21) Introducing Renee Jacobs: A Leader in the MICE Industry(09:21) The Scale of MGME: From Advisory Boards to Fan Activations(14:24) The Big Question: How to Make Corporate Events Authentic(15:33) Strategy 1: Choosing Unique Corporate Event Venues(17:40) Strategy 2: Creating Authentic Culinary Experiences(20:52) Strategy 3: Engaging Local Culture & Artisans(23:06) Behind the Scenes of a Multi-Million Dollar Event(24:50) Strategy 4: Integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)(29:00) How to Partner with MGME for Your Next Event(32:35) Final Thoughts: The Power of Authentic TravelLinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Join Mike Putman and James Ferrara from No Tourists Allowed as they recount their latest global adventures, from the bustling Panama Canal and historic Istanbul to vibrant Barcelona and glamorous Las Vegas. Discover thrilling travel tips and dive into a vital discussion on overtourism, but don't miss your chance to win a 7-day luxury Alaska cruise for two with Princess Cruise Lines! Visit notouristsallowed.com now to enter the giveaway and gain invaluable insights on mindful, authentic travel from our decades of experience.LinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInShare this episodeProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Skip the tourist traps and discover Michelin's pay-to-play scandal, why you should NEVER drink airplane coffee, and MasterCard's surprising #1 summer destination for 2025. Travel experts Mike Putman and James Ferrara reveal Boston's best non-chain restaurants, NYC theater district hidden gems, and insider tricks for finding authentic local dining anywhere you travel. Plus, enter to WIN a FREE 7-night Alaska cruise in a balcony cabin at notouristallowed.com before June ends!LinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInShare this episodeProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Discover how travel leaders are breaking down resort walls and cruise ship decks to deliver authentic cultural experiences. Mike and James reveal Celebrity Cruises' innovative "Bazaar" concept, transforming how travelers connect with destinations before even stepping ashore. Plus, unsettling data shows dramatic drops in international visitors to America—a 17% decrease from the UK and staggering 60% from Canada. This shift fundamentally threatens cross-cultural understanding while reshaping global tourism patterns. Listen as industry insiders analyze what's driving tourists away and how properties worldwide are responding with fresh approaches to immersive travel.LinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInShare this episodeProduced by Podcast Studio X.

When Jim Tedesco saw fire dancers performing at street corners rather than resort stages during his first post-pandemic trip to Mexico, he witnessed tourism's invisible economic lifeline suddenly exposed. The ALG Vacations VP brings intimate industry insights to No Tourists Allowed, revealing how all-inclusive resorts have evolved from "beans on a plate" budget experiences to luxury immersions that still maintain authentic connections to their destinations. Discover why a childhood room service order made a Jersey boy "feel like a king," how resort staff interactions can be your most meaningful cultural exchanges, and why those alarming headlines about Mexico's safety deserve crucial context you're not getting. Plus: more tantalizing clues about the mystery luxury cruise giveaway - where seals, whales, and possibly bears await one lucky listener!LinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInShare this episodeProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Would you book a one-way ticket to Europe to save $8,000 on business class flights? In this revealing episode, discover why airlines charge Americans up to 400% more than Europeans for identical premium seats—and the perfectly legal strategy savvy travelers use to beat this system. Meanwhile, producer Nathaniel explains the counterintuitive reason Gen Z is flocking to solo travel: it's not despite the loneliness epidemic but because of it, creating more meaningful connections than traveling with friends. Between Southwest's sudden abandonment of its 50-year free baggage policy and details on entering the luxury cruise giveaway (now confirmed: balcony cabin!), learn why the travel industry's conventional wisdom might be costing you both money and authentic experiences in 2025.Enter the Giveaway:https://notouristsallowed.com/raffle/NTA Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/NTA YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travelNTA LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed_ Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Is air travel becoming more dangerous? We confront this question head-on and reveal surprising statistics that will make you rethink your fears. We also take you behind the scenes of our recent cruise on Norwegian, exposing the shockingly wide array of onboard dining options and debating whether it's truly possible to have an authentic travel experience on a mega-ship. And don't miss out on our insider tip for scoring a year-long companion pass on Frontier! NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Is AI all hype when it comes to travel planning? We go beyond the buzz to uncover how artificial intelligence is quietly transforming operations behind the scenes. From analyzing the latest innovations to adopting Mexican gray wolves, we share provocative insights from our industry travels. Discover the unsexy truth about AI's real impact on travel. NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Is the travel industry's obsession with "work-life balance" actually making us less healthy and more stressed? In this provocative discussion, ALG Vacations' David Pritchard argues that the concept is a myth that celebrates unsustainable multitasking. Join us as we explore why work-life harmony and mindful presence are the keys to thriving, and how travel pros can lead the way in redefining wellness for themselves and their clients. NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Join us as we dive into the exciting world of RV travel with Maddi Bourgerie from RVshare. We explore the unique benefits of renting an RV for your next adventure and discuss how RVshare is making it easier than ever to experience the great outdoors on your own terms. NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

In this episode, we sit down with airline industry veteran Cory Garner to discuss the complex world of airline distribution and frequent flyer programs. Cory shares his insider perspective on how airlines are using new technologies and strategies to compete for customer loyalty in an increasingly dynamic market. We also dive into the pros and cons of splitting your loyalty between airlines to maximize benefits. Highlights: (0:00) Introduction (1:23) Airlines using new tech to influence loyalty (5:54) NDC gives airlines more control over distribution  (11:25) Leisure agencies adapted to NDC, corporate lags (14:58) Airlines mark up fares in legacy channels (17:52) Loyalty programs drive 15-20% of airline revenue (22:28) Cash + points offers usually a worse deal (26:45) Split loyalty in competitive markets to maximize benefits (33:55) Made pizza, saw Sophia Loren filming location NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Are you sitting on a pile of airline miles but feel like you can never use them effectively? In this episode, we uncover the dirty secrets of airline loyalty programs with Julian Kheel, CEO of Points Path. Julian exposes the ways airlines have devalued your miles over time and shares unconventional strategies for beating them at their own game. If you're ready to stop being a sucker and start traveling smarter, this is a must-listen episode. Highlights: (0:00) Introduction (1:27) Julian Kheel, CEO of Points Path, introduced (3:04) Hyatt has the best hotel loyalty program (5:12) Mal de debarquement syndrome from cruising (9:21) Points Path solves when to use miles (11:06) Points Path provides live airline point prices (16:00) Points plus cash usually a bad deal (18:15) Lose 6-12% points value during holidays (22:32) Users find great international business class deals (24:29) Newsletter covers top 5 weekly travel deals (27:21) DOT pressuring airlines on miles transparency NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Join us as we discuss the role of AI in travel planning and whether it can be trusted to handle the complexities of crafting the perfect trip. We also delve into the realities faced by flight attendants, including low pay and surprising insider secrets about airline food and water safety. Highlights: (0:00) Introduction (2:29) AI lacks human touch for travel planning (4:35) Recommendation engines give unqualified suggestions (6:32) AI agents can't handle complex travel logistics (11:25) Many flight attendants face poverty wages (15:46) Unhappy airline employees hurt customer service (20:57) Avoid airplane coffee/tea, says flight crew (22:58) Plane food often overcooked or over-processed (29:33) Fall foliage cruise to Canada/New England NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Is sitting on a long flight without food, water, or entertainment the secret to a refreshing travel experience? We dive into the controversial "raw dogging" flight trend and debate its merits. Plus, we share insider tips on scoring luxury travel deals and question the puzzling behavior of some air passengers. NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.

Want to fly business class for less than the cost of coach? We expose the little-known loopholes that airlines don’t want you to know about. Plus, find out why your travel agent may be keeping these deals from you and how to work around them. Highlights: (0:00) Introduction (1:07) Mike's summer travels through Europe (4:41) Benefits of train travel in Europe (7:11) Attending Taylor Swift concert in Dortmund (10:30) Exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations like Scotland (16:11) Avoiding overtourism by seeking authentic experiences (19:48) Incredible business class flight deals to Asia (22:27) Deeply discounted airfares to Europe in 2025 (28:11) Announcing the podcast's giveaway winner NTA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notouristsallowed321/ NTA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@notouristsallowed-aninside7994 NTA Podcast Links: https://podfollow.com/no-tourists-allowed-an-insiders-guide-to-travel NTA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-tourists-allowed _  Produced by Podcast Studio X.