Breathtaking Swiss Countryside By Train. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Kathy Schmauss, a travel advisor with Cruise Holidays of Viera, to review her recent Scenic Switzerland by Train tour with Cosmos. Kathy shares her experience exploring Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes via the Swiss train system, renowned for its efficiency and stunning views. She highlights the beautiful cities of Lucerne, Lausanne, Zermatt, and St. Moritz, and discusses the differences between Cosmos and Globus tours. Kathy provides insights into what makes Switzerland a unique and somewhat expensive destination, including tips on what to do in Zermatt and how to balance touring with free time. She also offers practical advice for anyone considering this tour, including organizing a group trip for September 2026. The episode concludes with a discussion on the pricing and value of the tour. Kathy also teases her upcoming travel plans, making this segment a must-watch for anyone interested in a Swiss adventure by train!
Windstar Or Silversea? Pick The Perfect Cruise For You! In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Debra Dickerson, a travel advisor with Cruise and Travel Experts, to provide an insightful review of Windstar Cruises and compare its two classes of cruises to the luxury experience offered by Silversea. Debra begins with an overview of Windstar, discussing whether it qualifies as a luxury cruise line and highlighting its unique destinations and smaller guest capacity. She dives into the various itineraries, onboard entertainment, and Windstar's distinctive Open Bridge Policy, as well as the Water Sports Platform that adds to the adventure. The conversation also covers the dining experience, the feel of sailing with actual sails in rough seas, and the overall price point. Debra doesn't shy away from discussing the little details that matter, like the deep bathtubs in the cabins, and she addresses the ship’s accessibility and pricing in more depth. The episode wraps up with a discussion on whether Windstar cruises are formal or casual. This episode is perfect for travelers interested in a Windstar cruises and for those looking for a comparison between Windstar and Silversea, offering plenty of expert advice and insider tips!
Celebrity Cruises Vs. Holland America - Which Is Right For You? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Mary Ellsworth, a travel advisor with Cruise and Travel Experts, to compare two premium cruise lines: Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line (HAL). Mary provides an insightful overview of how these lines stack up against each other, highlighting Holland America's "Classic" appeal and diving into the differences in package offerings, including the explanation of non-refundable deposits and the choice between à la carte versus included fares. The discussion touches on the onboard differences between the two lines, with a focus on Celebrity’s newer ships and the innovations aboard the Celebrity Ascent. Ken and Mary also compare the demographics of typical passengers, their Alaska itineraries, and which line caters best to families. They explore the dining options, including HAL's Global Fish Program, and compare the service levels on both lines. The conversation wraps up with a comparison of the loyalty programs, price points, and overall value, culminating in Mary’s final thoughts. This episode is packed with expert advice for anyone considering a cruise with Celebrity or Holland America!
Join us on this episode of Just The Facts as RTE-Travel Talk host Ken welcomes special guest Larry Jackson, a seasoned travel expert from Cruise Holidays of Viera, to explore the differences between Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International. Larry contrasts the ship size, guest complements, itineraries, dining, entertainment, service levels, loyalty programs, and price points as well as each cruise lines target audience. Larry has advice on multi-generational cruising with each line plus special tips on booking Celebrity's AquaClass staterooms. If you are confused about whether to book a mass market line such as RCI or a premium line such as Celebrity, then this video is for you!
In this episode of Just River Cruises, RTE-Travel Talk host Ken sits down with Real Travel Expert Lauren Matthews of Cruise & Travel Specialists to debunk the top five misconceptions about river cruises. If you've ever thought river cruising was only for a certain age group or that it might not offer the excitement and value you're looking for, this episode is for you! Ken and Lauren tackle these myths head-on, providing insights that could change the way you think about river cruising. Episode Highlights: 1. Misconception #1: It's for old people: River cruises aren't just for seniors—they offer something for travelers of all ages. 2. Misconception #2: It's boring: Discover the exciting and culturally rich experiences available on river cruises. 3. Misconception #3: It's expensive: Ken and Lauren break down the value of river cruising and why it's worth the cost. 4. Misconception #4: It's small and cramped on board: Learn about the spacious and comfortable accommodations available on river cruise ships. 5. Misconception #5: It's just the Rhine and the Danube Rivers: Explore the diverse destinations and rivers that you can cruise beyond the Rhine and Danube. Join us as we unravel these myths and help you see river cruising in a whole new light!
In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Debra Dickerson, a travel advisor with Cruise and Travel Experts, to provide an in-depth review of Tauck Tours, with a special focus on Debra's recent and extraordinary river cruise experience with Tauck. Debra shares the unique highlights of her journey, including themed days inspired by a Taylor Swift concert and a visit to a Formula 1 race track. She discusses the quality and uniqueness of Tauck's excursions, all of which are included in the tour package, and gives insight into the staterooms and the high value that Tauck offers its guests. The conversation also covers the Tauck Bridges program, designed specifically for families, with details on the children's age range, adult demographics, and the program's accessibility for those with disabilities. Debra also provides her perspective on the price point and value of Tauck Tours, and shares her overall thoughts on the experience. This segment is packed with expert advice and is a must-watch for anyone considering a Tauck tour!
Join us for an insightful episode of RTE-Travel Talk as host Ken sits down with Debbie Albrecht and Peter Whitehead, dedicated cruise managers for AmaWaterways. Discover the vital role they play in enhancing the guest experience on board AmaWaterways ships, ensuring every journey is unforgettable. From personalizing services to sharing heartwarming stories, Debbie and Pete offer a behind-the-scenes look at what makes AmaWaterways truly exceptional. Debbie and Pete share their personal stories with AmaWaterways, offering insights into the level of service that sets the company apart. They discuss how they cater to guest preferences, ensure seamless communication, and even accompany guests on excursions to create unforgettable experiences. The conversation delves into the importance of getting to know each guest personally and highlights some of Debbie's and Pete's most cherished memories on the job. The episode concludes with their thoughts on welcoming children aboard and a sneak peek into their upcoming travels. This engaging discussion is a must-watch for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes efforts that make AmaWaterways a top choice for river cruising.
In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken is joined by Real Travel Expert Lauren Matthews for another installment of Just River Cruises. Together, they explore their top five Christmas Markets in Europe that are best experienced on a river cruise. Starting with a short overview of these magical markets, Lauren and Ken dive into the festive charm of Vienna, Budapest, Strasbourg, Cologne, and Nuremberg. They also discuss the joy of bringing children along for the journey, Lauren’s thoughts on recommendations for river cruise lines, and the best time to book your trip. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first Christmas Market adventure, this episode is packed with valuable insights to make your holiday cruise unforgettable. Don’t miss Lauren’s expert advice and how to get in touch for more information! Contact Lauren: lauren@cruzholidays.com
Join Ken on this episode of RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Real Travel Expert Larry Jackson, owner of Cruise Holidays of Viera, to discuss the ultimate cruise tour experience in Hawaii. Larry shares his insider knowledge and personal recommendations, starting with his private cruise tour of Hawaii. From the perfect itinerary and luxurious hotels to unique island visits and unforgettable activities, Larry covers it all. Discover the best time to visit, explore iconic destinations like Maui, Hilo, and the Na Pali Coast, and learn about the unique traditions that make this cruise tour stand out. Larry also compares his custom Hawaii cruise experience to that offered by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), ensuring you get the most out of your Hawaiian adventure. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Hawaii or looking to elevate your next visit, this episode is packed with expert tips and insights to create the best possible experience. Don’t miss out on Larry’s advice, future travel plans, and how to get in touch for your dream Hawaiian cruise!
Cruise Lines vs Popular Hotels | FIND YOUR BEST CRUISE LINE. In this insightful episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Lynn Johnson, the owner and founder of Neptune Travel LLC, to explore her unique approach to matching travelers with the perfect cruise line. Lynn shares her journey in the travel industry and reveals her innovative method of comparing cruise lines to popular hotels, making it easier for travelers to find their ideal experience. From diving into detailed comparisons to discussing the impact of age on cruise selection, Lynn emphasizes the importance of consulting with a knowledgeable travel agent. She also delves into luxury and premium cruise lines, offering comparisons that help demystify the choices for potential cruisers. The conversation highlights the value of personalized consultations and wraps up with a glimpse into Lynn's upcoming travel plans. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or new to the world of cruising, this episode provides valuable insights that can help you make informed decisions for your next adventure.
Join us on "RTE-Travel Talk Just River Cruises" as host Ken sits down with Lauren Matthews, an expert from Cruise & Travel Specialists, to delve into the crucial topic of water levels and their impact on river cruising. Lauren shares her insights on predicting water levels, how often water level issues arise, and the proactive measures river cruise lines such as Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways take to handle such challenges. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility in travel plans and offers valuable advice on how to prepare ahead for potential water-related disruptions. Lauren also highlights the best times of the year to cruise in order to avoid water problems. Stay tuned for next month's topic on "RTE-Travel Talk Just River Cruises" where we continue to bring you expert advice and insights for your travel adventures. Contact Lauren at lauren@cruzholidays.com
In this captivating segment of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Lola Vassiliadis, owner of Cruise Holidays Vacations, to explore two of the world's most exotic river cruise destinations: the Amazon and the Ganges. Lola shares her insights on these extraordinary journeys with Uniworld River Cruises and Avalon Waterways, delving into the unique experiences each offers. They also take an exciting detour to discuss a custom tour of India's sacred triangle, offering viewers a glimpse into the rich culture and history of this renowned region. Additionally, Lola provides expert tips for travelers and highlights other exotic river cruise destinations such as the Egypt and the Nile and the Columbia in South America with AmaWaterways. Don't miss this episode for a wealth of travel inspiration and expert advice!
Sandals Dunn's River: Everything You Need To Know! Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Shari Marsh, owner of Cruise Holidays Land and Sea and a Certified Sandals Expert, to review the luxurious Sandals Dunn's River All-Inclusive Resort. Shari shares her expertise and insights, starting with an overview of the resort and how it compares to other Sandals properties. She delves into the exquisite accommodations, discusses the price points, and highlights the diverse dining options available. Discover the resort’s prime location, offering easy access to a variety of on and off-resort activities. Learn about the inclusions that make your stay hassle-free, and get valuable tips on booking activities to maximize your experience. Shari also shares her thoughts on the overall happiness quotient of guests, provides an overview of the different bars on-site, and offers final tips for prospective visitors. To wrap up, she shares her contact information and gives a sneak peek into her future travel plans. Don't miss this comprehensive guide to Sandals Dunn's River, packed with expert advice and insider tips!
In this segment of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and Neil Dudley from AmaWaterways to discuss families and river cruising - a rising trend. Topics include AmaWaterway's ships with triples, quads, or adjoining suites, entertaining children, child-friendly menu options, best itineraries for families and their collaboration with Adventures By Disney. River cruising with your family is a wonderful option and this podcast explains why.
In this segment of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with Ole Nordhavn, owner of Concierge Travel Services, to discuss the best vacation and culinary options for Hawaii. They cover a range of topics, starting with the advantages and unique experiences offered by Hawaii cruises. Ole shares insights into land-based tours and the benefits of renting private home accommodations for a more personalized stay. The discussion also touches on the convenience and appeal of condo rentals. They explore the diverse and delectable food scene in Hawaii and talk about comprehensive Hawaii vacation packages. Ole provides valuable tips for making the most of a Hawaiian vacation and offers information on how to get in touch with him for personalized travel planning. The segment wraps up with Ole sharing his future travel plans as the "painting travel advisor " offering his vivid and colorful approach to travel planning.
Join Ken, the host of RTE-Travel Talk, as he sits down with Barb Young, owner of Cruise Holidays of Port Coquitlam, to discuss her recent river cruise experience with AmaWaterways in Paris and Normandy. Barb shares an in-depth review of the itinerary, highlighting the beautiful staterooms, the exceptional service from the Cruise Manager, and key moments from the journey, including how AmaWaterways expertly resolved any river issues. She provides heartfelt feedback on visiting the war cemeteries and offers valuable tips for both pre- and post-cruise activities in Paris. From arrival to departure, Barb gives an inside look at AmaWaterways' top-notch service, the delectable cuisine, the entertainment on board and the weather during her trip. Barb and Ken share a special remembrance of their Dads two WW II veterans. Don't miss Barb's final advice for anyone considering a river cruise, plus her memorable visit to the Eiffel Tower. This segment is packed with insights and reflections that will inspire your next river cruise adventure.
Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Christy Fitzharris, travel expert and founder of Wheels Up Travel Company, to discuss making the most out of your Disney World Resorts vacation by choosing the right resort and tours. In this insightful segment, they cover everything from an overview of Disney World, to the perks of staying at The Contemporary Resort and other resorts along the Monorail line. Discover why Disney luxury is all about convenience, and learn about alternatives to standing in line that can save you time and enhance your experience. They delve into the costs involved, explore food adventures and dining packages, and highlight the vibrant atmosphere of Disney Springs. Christy also shares tips for adult time and activities outside the theme parks, the advantages of a park and cruise combo, and the importance of working with a Disney specialist. Finally, don't miss Christy's invaluable booking advice to ensure you have a magical Disney vacation.
In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk's "Just The Facts," host Ken sits down with Larry Jackson, the owner of Cruise Holidays of Viera, to explore the best cruise options for Hawaii. They delve into the advantages of cruising the Hawaiian islands instead of flying between them and why cruising can be a more enjoyable and practical choice. Larry shares insights on the benefits of flying to Hawaii before starting your cruise journey. The discussion also covers the Jones Act and its impact on cruising, highlighting NCL's Pride of America. Viewers will learn about Oahu, known for its beauty and abundant activities, and hear about the unofficial Hawaiian ambassadors who enrich the travel experience. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone considering a Hawaiian cruise adventure
Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with travel expert Jody Ryland of Cruise & Travel Experts to discuss her recent Caribbean cruise with Island Windjammers. Jody shares her insights and experiences, starting with an introduction to Island Windjammers and the charming ship, Vela. She describes the overall atmosphere on board and provides a detailed look at the cozy cabins. Jody also offers a handy booking tip and recounts her delightful pre-stay in Sint Maarten, including a useful mobility tip for travelers. She outlines the exciting itinerary of her cruise and highlights some memorable shore excursions. Food enthusiasts will appreciate her detailed review of the cuisine on board, along with a helpful tip for those with dietary requirements. The exceptional service and friendly crew are also a major highlight of her trip. For those curious about on-board activities and entertainment, Jody has plenty to share. She also covers practical aspects like sailing schedules and how to handle rough seas. Jody provides an overview of other Windjammer ships and paints a vivid picture of the breathtaking Caribbean sunsets. She concludes with the highlight of her cruise, additional tips for sailing with Windjammers, and thoughts on where they sail and family sailing. Don't miss this informative and engaging interview for all your cruise travel inspiration!
Welcome to another episode of Just the Facts with Larry! In this episode, RTE-Travel Talk host Ken sits down with Real Travel Expert Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera. Together, they share invaluable advice and tips for cruisers, gathered from their extensive experience in the travel industry. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these insights are sure to enhance your cruise experience. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more travel tips and expert advice! Episode Highlights: 1. Take the stairs: One of the easiest ways to stay active on a cruise is to take the stairs instead of the elevator. 2. Fly into the cruise port a day early: Avoid travel stress and potential delays by arriving at your port city a day in advance. 3. Acknowledge the crew: A simple greeting or thank you to the crew can go a long way in enhancing your cruise experience. 4. Don't listen to the "cruise critics": Form your own opinions and enjoy your cruise without being influenced by negative reviews. 5. Pack a medical kit: Be prepared for minor health issues with a well-stocked medical kit. 6. Pack "light" but still take half of it!: Overpacking is common, but try to bring only what you'll really need. 7. Bring Ziploc® bags: These versatile bags can be useful for keeping items dry or for packing snacks. 8. Adjoining rooms for family travel: Consider booking adjoining rooms for a more comfortable and convenient family vacation. 9. Scout out "your" table in the buffet dining room: Find a favorite spot in the buffet dining room to make meal times more enjoyable. 10. Wear your tightest fitting clothes first: Save room in your suitcase and stay comfortable by wearing your snug clothing early in the trip. 11. Be on time to board the ship: Punctuality is key to avoid missing your cruise departure. 12. Ships may not abide by the time zones: Keep in mind that the ship's time may differ from local time zones, so plan accordingly. 13. Storing your suitcases: Utilize space under your bed or in closets to keep your cabin tidy. 14. Leave the contraband at home: Ensure you comply with the ship's policies by leaving prohibited items behind. 15. Don't overplan: Allow yourself some flexibility to enjoy spontaneous moments on your cruise. 16. Stay on board on a port day: Sometimes the best way to enjoy the ship's amenities is to stay on board while others explore the port. Enjoy the episode and happy cruising!