Luxury Travel Insider

Jaksot

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  New Zealand | Beyond the Bucket List: The Power of Meaningful Adventure 16.09.2026 50min

  Today we're in for some adventure. We'll start off white water kayaking, sprinkle in a little bungee, and end by summiting a mountain. Along the way we'll hear stories about a truly unique landscape, rich cultural history, and incredible food to boot.  Joining me today to chat all things New Zealand is our adventure partner in the country, Phil Boorman. Phil spent his entire life leading far flung experiences around the globe until deciding to come home and show off his country to adventurous travelers.  We chat about how to have meaningful experiences as a tourist, life lessons learned from adventures, and how New Zealand gives you the time and space to slow down and enjoy.  If you're looking for a sense of meaning, luxury, and unique experiences all wrapped into one - this is the episode for you. I hope you enjoy this fun chat, on Luxury Travel Insider.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Bolivia | Expert Panel: Lost Civilizations, Silver Empires, and Sacred Landscapes 09.09.2026 53min

  Today we're heading to a country that defies easy description - salt flats that mirror the sky, ruins that predate the Inca by centuries, and a capital city so high it feels like its own atmosphere. Joining me are two people who know Bolivia not as visitors, but as hosts - Sebastian Villena, whose family founded Crillon Tours and who now leads A&K Bolivia, and Javier Loza, one of the most knowledgeable guides I've had anywhere in the world. We talk about everything from Potosí's silver-fueled rivalry with London and Paris, to a law giving nature legal rights, to waking up on the other worldly Uyuni salt flats and the ancestral healers of Lake Titicaca. So settle in for this rich episode of Luxury Travel Insider.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  St. Barths | Eden Rock: Old World Glamour in The Caribbean 02.09.2026 37min

  Today we're headed to the magical island of St. Barths. While enjoying vibrant turquoise seas, beautiful hikes in the mountains, and powdery white sand may feel very Caribbean, there's another undercurrent at play here. The vibe is decidedly French, and the world class food, shopping, and nightlife blends gorgeously with the island's Caribbean roots.  My guest today is Fabrice Moizan, GM of the famous Eden Rock Hotel in St. Barths. Fabrice is himself French but has lived on the island for almost a decade. We talk about the blended roots of St. Barths, the feeling you get when you step into Eden Rock, and all that this little island has to offer.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, Covac Global.   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  Seychelles | Tomas Cochrane: Island Hopping in the Garden of Eden 26.08.2026 36min

  Today we're whisking you off to a set of secluded islands in the Indian Ocean. This special place is so beautiful and remote, that it is often touted as the original Garden of Eden.  Joining me to chat all things Seychelles, is our partner in the region Tomas Cochrane.  Whether you're looking for a far flung, relaxing, tropical paradise, or a more active adventure complete with interesting wildlife, hiking, and island hopping - the Seychelles really has something for almost everyone.  Tomas and I chat about the different personalities of the various islands, the history, pirate inspired treasure hunts, and of course some of the gorgeous hotels. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  Kenya | Segera Retreat, Owners Jochen & Kate Zeitz: Blending Luxury, Art, and Conservation 19.08.2026 54min

  Today we're headed to the Laikipia region of Kenya, where the rugged beauty of the savannas meets rolling hills and stunning views of Mt. Kenya.  We'll land on 50,000 acres of conserved land and enjoy everything the gorgeous Segera Retreat has to offer.  Joining me to tell you all about Segera are its owners Jochen and Kate Zeitz. Jochen has been the CEO of companies like Puma and Harley Davidson but his passion lies in Africa and the culture and arts of its people. Kate is an accomplished television, movie, and documentary producer and was captured by the landscapes here and the drive to show the world its beauty.  Kate, Jochen, and I chat about everything from rhino conservation, to building the lodge, to immersing in the harmony and balance that is Africa. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/     Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Ocean Travel | Explora Journeys: Inside the Luxury Cruise Brand Everyone's Talking About 12.08.2026 43min

  Today we're setting sail with Explora Journeys, the ultra-luxury ocean brand built to feel less like a cruise ship and more like a boutique European resort that just happens to float. Joining me is Chris Austin, President of North America for Explora Journeys, who's been with the brand since before a single ship existed and has watched the vision go from blank pages to a fleet at sea. We talk about everything from what changed in the ships' design, to the off the beaten path ports, to the corners of the ship guests stumble onto and can't stop talking about. Maybe pour yourself a glass of rose, settle in, and enjoy this episode about slowing down, and what the ocean teaches us about time.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  The Dominican Republic | Eden Roc Cap Cana 05.08.2026 34min

  I'm excited for you to join me today to head to the gorgeous island of the Dominican Republic. There's something about the turquoise water fringed with the most amazing palm trees you've ever seen - that gives you a sense of calm and relaxation here. Add in the incredible history, gorgeous resorts, world class golf courses - and you're truly on vacation.  My guest today is Stefano Baratelli, the Executive Director at Eden Roc Cap Cana. This resort is one that has been special for so many of our clients, so I was excited to share it with you too. Stefano and I chat about the culinary focus of the property, the culture of the island, and some over the top New Years parties.  Have fun with this sun and sand episode, and when you're ready to stay, don't forget that you get extra perks for booking through Bell & Bly Travel. Enjoy! Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Laos | Expert Panel 29.07.2026 50min

  Today we're headed a bit off the beaten path, to Southeast Asia, and visiting the country of Lao. Lao or Laos means Land of a Million Elephants which is a symbol for prosperity - but the main draw to the country is the warm hospitality of its people.  Whether you're visiting to see spectacular waterfalls and jungle scenery, learn about the history of this melting pot country, or simply immerse into the authentic culture - Lao is a place that captures hearts.  My guests today are Tara Gujadhur who runs the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre in Lao, Rachel O'Shea who founded the Laos Buffalo Dairy, and JB Richards our partner in the region and expert in all things Southeast Asia.  We chat about everything from the importance of preserving traditional crafts, to the process of making cheese from buffalo milk, to amazing experiences you can have getting to know the locals. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Castello Di Vicarello | Owner, Neri Baccheschi Berti: Love at First Sight in Tuscany 22.07.2026 42min

  I'm excited for you to join me today in the southern part of Tuscany, an area called Maremma, and one we haven't yet explored on the show. Here you'll find sun-kissed olive groves, pristine stretches of coastline, and of course, gorgeous wines.  We're settling in at the stunning Castello di Vicarello for a chat with my friend, and the owner, Neri Baccheschi Berti who in a surprising turn of events, tells us how he was actually born inside the castle during its renovation!  Neri and I chat about his family, how they came to fall in love with this piece of history, and the path that took them from fashion and creativity to becoming accidental hoteliers. We also dive into ancient Italian rivalries, Tuscan cuisine, and learning how to slow down and take it all in.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Fiji | COMO Laucala Island: An Untouched Paradise 15.07.2026 46min

  Today, we're escaping to one of the most exclusive private islands in the world— COMO Laucala. The island is tucked away in the shimmering South Pacific in the north of Fiji. This stunning destination is more than just a tropical paradise; it's a celebration of untouched beauty, sustainable luxury, and authentic Fijian culture. Joining me is Gary Henden, General Manager of COMO Laucala Island. Gary and I chat about the island's unique history, untouched waterfall hikes, golf, diving, the warm local hospitality, and more.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Uzbekistan | Expert Panel: The Heart of the Silk Road, Ancient Cities, and Local Traditions 08.07.2026 52min

  Today we're heading to the heart of the Silk Road. Uzbekistan, full of ancient caravan cities, turquoise domes, and golden desert sands hold centuries of history that shaped the the world as we know it today. Joining me are two guests who know this region intimately. Bekhruz Kurbanov is an archaeologist and guide born and raised in Uzbekistan, Luca Lasser who has nearly 20 years of experience working in Central Asia and who runs Kalpak Travel with his wife, a native of Kyrgyzstan.  We talk about everything from the conquerors who left their mark on this land, to the secrets hidden in thousand year old metalwork, to an evening spent making the national dish with locals in their homes.  So pour yourself a cup of tea, and enjoy this fascinating episode of Luxury Travel Insider.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social:  Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Vienna & Prague | Expert Panel: The Fairytale Cities of Europe 01.07.2026 40min

  I'm excited to whisk you off today to two of my favorite cities in Europe, Prague and Vienna. I think the travel world sometimes forgets that Vienna was once the center of European power, while its sister to the north is the birthplace of bohemian culture.  To paraphrase Karl Kraus, while the streets of other cities are paved with asphalt, the streets of these two cities are quite literally paved with culture.  Here to discuss Vienna and Prague with us are Gwen Kozlowski, my partner in the region, and Kamila Karen, one of the top local guides in all of Prague.  Both Gwen and Kamilla tell tear-inducing stories of families during the war, share wistful images of coffee shops and pubs, and truly impart a sense of what it's like to visit this part of the world.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  Canada | Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort: The Story Behind Canada's Most Remote Luxury Lodge 24.06.2026 54min

  Today we're venturing deep into the Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia, where Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort has been welcoming guests to one of the most remote and breathtaking corners of Canada for over 45 years. Joining me today are Fraser and Becky Murray, the husband and wife team behind Nimmo Bay - a place that started as a family fishing lodge and has evolved into a world-renowned luxury wilderness destination focused on bears, whales, helicopters, and some seriously incredible food. We talk about everything from the hydroelectric system powering the lodge off a waterfall, to the wildest wildlife encounters guests have had, to what it actually does to a person to spend a few days truly immersed in this kind of wilderness. Zip up your fleece and enjoy this wild and wonderful episode of Luxury Travel Insider.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  The World of Cruising | President & CEO of CLIA, Kelly Craighead: Younger Passengers, Better Value, Sustainable Practices 17.06.2026 46min

  My guest today is Kelly Craighead, President & CEO of CLIA - one of the travel industry's most important associations representing all things cruises! Before running CLIA, Kelly was the senior government representative for all travel and tourism matters at the Department of Commerce.  So if you're interested in travel trends and what's new in the cruise industry, you're in for a treat!  Kelly and I chat about everything from how millennials are the fastest growing generation for cruise travel, to sustainability on the oceans, to fabulous new destinations you can reach by ship.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/ Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Beyond Vacation​ | Dr. Michael F. Steger, Psychologist and Academic 10.06.2026 1t 4min

  Today's episode is for anyone who has ever come home from a trip feeling subtly or not so subtly changed. My guest today is Dr. Michael F. Steger, Professor of Psychology and founding director of the Center for Meaning and Purpose at Colorado State University. Mike has published over 150 scholarly articles and created two of the most widely used measures of meaning in the world, and somehow makes all of it feel like a conversation you'd want to have over dinner. We unpack what meaning actually is significance, coherence, and purpose and then bring it straight into travel. Why do unfamiliar places sometimes make us feel more like ourselves? Can a trip be genuinely meaningful, or does it just slide into beautiful consumption? And what does it take to come home not just rested, but also more alive? If you've ever wondered if travel makes life more meaningful, this episode is for you.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  The Dolomites | Agustina Lagos Marmol: Climbing, Culture, and Cuisine 03.06.2026 44min

  Today we're heading to the far north of Italy to the Dolomites and Lake Garda. This magical region is full of craggy spires, sheer cliff faces, verdant valleys, and gorgeous lakes. No wonder it's recognized by UNESCO, will be the home of the next Winter Olympics, and inspires travelers from around the world.  My guest today is my partner in the region, Agustina Lagos Marmol. Before starting her company, Agustina was an intrepid mountain guide - taking guests climbing all over the world. Her love for the Dolomites in particular always kept her coming back and she's now cycled, hiked, or skied almost every inch of the region.  We discuss everything from the ancient Ladin culture, to World War I history, to incredible mountain adventures finished off with gourmet meals and fabulous wine. Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  Kerala | Expert Panel: Ancient Traditions, Modern Journeys 27.05.2026 53min

  Today we're headed to Kerala, a state on India's southwestern coast where ancient backwaters meet misty mountain tea gardens, sacred temples, and spice-scented markets that have drawn travelers from across the world for thousands of years. Joining me today are Anil Pathak, our partner in the region, and Manoj Vasudevan, an award-winning guide and photographer who has led everyone from Anthony Bourdain to National Geographic journalists through this remarkable region. We talk about everything from how the spice trade shaped Kerala's identity, to experiencing the backwaters without the crowds, to what this place reveals about humanity when you really take the time to look closely. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this colorful episode of Luxury Travel Insider.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  Suffolk, England | Wilderness Reserve: The Simple Luxury of Stepping Back in Time 20.05.2026 30min

  Today we're heading to the county of Suffolk in Eastern England, otherwise known as the forgotten county. While not a lot of tourists visit this area, it is chock full of beautiful nature reserves and is known for historical ruins and quaint seaside towns.  My guest today is Harry Hunt, whose family owns a jewel of a property set on 8,000 acres of preserved nature. Wilderness Reserve is decidedly not a hotel, but rather a collection of historical buildings fully renovated into villas and homes that will invoke the countryside getaway of your dreams.  Harry and I talk about everything from fish and chips to gorgeous dinners set up in the forest, to how the family is focused on conserving the land through tourism.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/    Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn  
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  The Great Barrier Reef | Expert Panel: Secrets of the World's Largest Living Wonder 13.05.2026 44min

  Today we're headed to one of the most extraordinary places on the planet where we'll find the largest living structure on Earth, sand so pure it never gets hot, and water so impossibly turquoise it looks like you used a filter. Joining me today to chat all things Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays are Rebecca Hamey, General Manager of Qualia, a luxury resort on Hamilton Island and Scotty Bowen, a Master Reef Guide and skipper. We cover everything from the reef's ancient indigenous history, to the honest truth about coral bleaching and what's giving scientists hope, to the most elevated and unexpected ways to experience this region. Dive in and enjoy this beautiful episode of Luxury Travel Insider.   Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/   Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn
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  British Virgin Islands | Rosewood Little Dix Bay: Rockefellers, Royalty, and a Private Escape in Paradise 06.05.2026 31min

  Today we're soaking up some island vibes in the British Virgin Islands. So, imagine yourself on the island of Virgin Gorda, with swaying palm trees in the background, a pain killer drink in hand, and some of the most stunning views in the Caribbean.  Now open your eyes and you'll find yourself at the Rosewood Little Dix Bay.  Dig a little deeper and you'll find that this isn't just a shiny new resort taking up space on a pristine island. It was designed by conservationist Laurance Rockefeller and has a rich history including Queen Elizabeth and families who have visited every year since the early 1960s.  I chat with General Manager Andreas Pade about that history, little known facts, and what sets this destination apart from others.  Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/  Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com   Connect with me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn