Know Zone Podcast

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  In Good Company | Episode 2: Building Stronger Supplier Partnerships 24.08.2026 23min

  In the second episode of In Good Company, Emily Harris, Business Development Manager at Classic Vacations®, sits down with Marie Smith, Strategic Account Manager for Host Accounts, to explore how host agency advisors can make the most of their relationship with Classic and build stronger, more strategic supplier partnerships.Marie takes listeners behind the scenes of Classic's Host Account team, explaining the role of a Strategic Account Manager, how the team supports host organizations and their affiliated advisors, and what that support can mean for an individual advisor's business. She also shares insights from her paper, "The Advisor-Supplier Partnership: Structure, Strategy, Success," including practical ways advisors can turn supplier relationships into valuable business partnerships.Stay tuned for future episodes of In Good Company, where members of the Classic Vacations® Sales team come together to explore the topics, trends, and strategies travel advisors want to hear most.
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  A Classic Conversation about Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit 20.08.2026 17min

  The second episode in a special three-part series exploring the luxury resorts of Riviera Nayarit.In this episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations®, reflects on her stay at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit during Classic Vacations' President's Club, where Classic's top-producing Reservations agents gathered for a few days of celebration and connection. Melissa shares what stood out during her stay, what made the resort a memorable setting for the event, and why Grand Velas continues to be a strong fit for Classic advisors and their clients.Gina Jimenez, Director of Sales & Marketing at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Casa Velas, also joins the conversation, offering an insider's perspective on the resort's approach to luxury all-inclusive hospitality, renowned culinary program, ideal guest, and longstanding partnership with Classic Vacations®.Tune in for two perspectives on Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and helpful insights for matching clients with this elevated all-inclusive resort. Stay tuned for part three of this special Riviera Nayarit series.
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  A Classic Conversation in the British Virgin Islands 14.08.2026 20min

  In this special in-destination episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Marie Smith, Strategic Account Manager for Host Agencies at Classic Vacations®, brings listeners along on a familiarization trip to the British Virgin Islands, featuring stays at Peter Island Resort and Oil Nut Bay.Throughout the journey, Marie sits down with travel advisors on the FAM to hear their firsthand perspectives on the resorts, memorable moments from the trip, and their experience traveling with Classic.Hear firsthand from:Eva H., a Classic travel advisorLauren D., a Classic travel advisorCourtney C., a Classic travel advisorLauren F., a Classic travel advisorTune in for resort insights, advisor perspectives, and a closer look at exploring the British Virgin Islands with Classic.
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  In Good Company | Episode 1: Meet Your Classic Sales Team 06.08.2026 32min

  The first episode in the new In Good Company series, where the Classic Vacations® Sales team shares insights, expertise, and practical strategies to help travel advisors grow their business.In this inaugural episode, get to know the people behind Classic as members of the Sales team introduce themselves, explain their roles, and share how they partner with travel advisors every day.Hear from:Emily Harris, Business Development ManagerJulie Bennett, Strategic Account Manager, GroupsKevin Brown, Business Development ManagerMarie Smith, Strategic Account ManagerReagan Vasquez, Strategic Account ManagerSabrina O'Connor, Business Development ManagerStay tuned for future episodes of In Good Company, where members of the Classic Vacations Sales team come together to explore the topics, trends, and strategies travel advisors want to hear most.
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  A Classic Conversation about One&Only Mandarina 29.07.2026 23min

  The first episode in a special three-part series exploring the luxury resorts of Riviera Nayarit.In this episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations®, reflects on her family's stay at One&Only Mandarina, sharing firsthand insights into the resort's spectacular Private Homes and why they're an exceptional choice for family vacations, multigenerational travel, and milestone celebrations.Alejandra Esquivel, Director of Sales and Marketing at One&Only Mandarina, also joins the conversation, offering an insider's perspective on the resort's unique setting, personalized experiences, and thoughtful details that make One&Only Mandarina one of Mexico's most extraordinary luxury resorts.Tune in for an inside look at One&Only Mandarina, expert insights into its Private Homes, and inspiration for matching clients with one of the most distinctive luxury resort experiences in Riviera Nayarit. Stay tuned for part two of this series.
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  A Classic Conversation in Spain 17.07.2026 8min

  In this special in-destination episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Reagan Vasquez, Business Development Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners along on a familiarization journey through Spain, exploring some of the country's most iconic cities and luxury hotels.Recorded throughout the trip, this episode features conversations with leading hotel partners, who share what makes their properties unique and the distinctive experiences they offer travelers.Hear firsthand from:Moisés Montoro, Sales Manager, Le Méridien BarcelonaEva Gutierrez, Commercial Director, and Martín Peretiatko, Sales Executive, Nobu Hotel BarcelonaMercedes Palenzuela, Sales Director, Hotel Colón, a Gran Meliá HotelLola Guillena, Sales Manager, Hospes Las Casas del Rey de BaezaDavid Pizarro, Sales Manager, Palacio de los Duques, a Gran Meliá HotelJosé Carlos, Cluster Sales Manager, Único Hotels, The Principal Madrid HotelTune in for destination inspiration, insider perspectives from Barcelona, Seville, and Madrid, and firsthand insights into the hotels and experiences that make Spain one of Europe's most sought-after destinations.
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  A Classic Conversation at Hotel Xcaret México 26.06.2026 17min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Caroline Massey, Associate Social Media Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners to Hotel Xcaret México for Classic’s 2026 Groups STAR Performers event. Bringing together top-performing travel advisors, hotel partners, and the Classic team, this episode explores the evolving world of group travel through discussions on emerging booking trends, the value of working with a travel advisor, and what makes Hotel Xcaret México an exceptional destination for groups.Hear from: Marilyn Cairo, VP of Sales, Groups and Host Business, Classic Vacations Andrea N., a Classic travel advisor Daniel Ortega, Sales Manager, Hotel Xcaret México Ateet A. a Classic travel advisor Tune in for expert perspectives on the latest group travel trends, insights into Hotel Xcaret México, and conversations celebrating the value of trusted travel advisor relationships. Travel advisors interested in learning more about Classic’s STAR Performers events are encouraged to connect with their Classic Sales Representative.  
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  A Classic Conversation at Save the Date LIVE 2025 21.05.2026 13min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Caroline Massey, Associate Social Media Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners to Save the Date LIVE 2025, hosted at the stunning Hotel Xcaret Mexico.Bringing together travel advisors and hotel partners, this episode explores the world of destination weddings — from emerging trends and advisor insight to the experiences that make these resorts unforgettable settings for couples celebrating their big day.Recorded throughout the event, the conversations highlight the trends, partnerships, and perspectives shaping the future of destination weddings and romance travel.Hear firsthand from:• Melissa E., travel advisor • Barbara Guadarrama, Corporate Associate Director of Weddings, Xcaret • Meagan C., travel advisor• Robin B., travel advisor • Denys Montes de Oca, Executive Corporate Director of Sales & Marketing at Velas Resorts • Ana Morales, Luxury Account Manager at The Palace Company Tune in for destination wedding insight, resort highlights, and perspectives from advisors and partners helping couples create unforgettable celebrations in Mexico and beyond.
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  A Classic Conversation at E3: Elite. Education. Experience. HOST 13.04.2026 9min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Caroline Massey, Associate Social Media Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners to Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic for E3: Elite. Education. Experience. HOST.Recorded throughout the event, the episode offers a closer look at what makes E3 HOST such a meaningful experience, bringing together travel advisors and hotel partners for immersive learning, connection, and firsthand product discovery.Hear firsthand from:• Melani Aquino, Director of Sales, Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort• Alicia W., travel advisor• Gina Johnson, Senior Manager Weddings and Celebrations – All-Inclusive, Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts • Dahiana Villalona, Sales Manager, Secrets and Dreams Playa Esmerelda • Margo C., travel advisorTune in for perspectives from both advisors and partners, along with destination insight from the Dominican Republic and a behind-the-scenes look at the E3 HOST experience.
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  A Classic Conversation at E3: Elite. Education. Experience. 25.03.2026 15min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Caroline Massey, Associate Social Media Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners inside E3: Elite. Education. Experience. 2025, hosted at W Punta Cana, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort and the first of its kind in the W brand’s portfolio.Through a series of conversations recorded throughout the event, the episode captures the moments, insights, and connections that define E3, while offering a closer look at the Dominican Republic as a destination on the rise. Hear firsthand from: • Armando Montalvo, Luxury Leisure Sales Manager at W Punta Cana• Marilyn Cairo, VP of Sales, Groups at Classic Vacations• Lindsey Heinzel, Global Account Executive at Marriott International• Jess H., travel advisor • Enrique Penson, Administrative Director at Ministry of Tourism of the Dominican Republic• Courtney C., travel advisor • Kevin Matier, Global Sales Manager – Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection SpecialistTune in for an inside look at E3, destination insight from the Dominican Republic, and perspectives from industry leaders and advisors shaping the future of travel. Travel advisors interested in attending a future Classic event are encouraged to connect with their Classic Sales Representative for more information.
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  A Classic Conversation in Hawaii: The Big Island & Oahu 19.03.2026 6min

  In this special in-destination episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Reagan Vasquez, Strategic Account Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners along on a familiarization journey through Hawaii’s Big Island and Oahu. From uncovering hidden gems and must-try local dishes to exploring what sets each resort apart, this episode offers firsthand insights into two of Hawaii’s most sought-after islands. Through conversations with top hotel partners, Reagan highlights the unique experiences, service touches, and standout features that help travel advisors confidently match the right property to the right client. Hear from: • Nabil Malhas, Leisure Sales Specialist at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai • Travis Ma, Sales Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach • Keenan Rothenborg, Sales Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach • Gabriela Del Campo, Travel Industry Sales Coordinator at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina • Kelly Strickland, Regional Director of Leisure Sales at Hilton Waikoloa Village • Marissa Froio, Senior Transient Sales Executive at The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa • Nelson Arlos, Associate Director of Sales at Halekulani • Karin Jones, Account Director, Leisure Sales at Marriott International – The Waikiki Collection • Lori Ono, Director of National Accounts at The Kahala Hotel & Resort • Chris Schooss, Area Leisure Sales Manager at Prince Resorts HawaiiTune in for insider perspectives, resort highlights, and destination insights designed to elevate the Hawaii travel experience. 
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  A Classic Conversation in Japan 11.02.2026 10min

  In this special in-destination episode of the Know Zone podcast, Jess Pavloff takes listeners along on a Classic Vacations® familiarization journey through Japan. Through conversations with Classic’s Japan destination expert, a hotel partner, and a travel advisor who experienced the FAM firsthand, the episode offers an on-the-ground look at one of travel’s most in-demand destinations.Named by travel advisors as one of the most anticipated destinations in Classic’s 2026 Luxury Travel Trends Report, Japan continues to top bucket lists worldwide. This episode explores what is driving demand and how advisors can confidently position Japan for their clients.Hear firsthand from:• Yvette Broussard, Director, New Product Development, Classic Vacations• Beatrice Wong Su-Yin, Sales Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto• Stacy E., Travel Advisor and FAM participantFor travel advisors registered with Classic Vacations, additional learning is available through a live webinar or the on-demand recording of this Japan familiarization trip in the Know Zone within Classic Assist.
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  A Classic Conversation at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos 22.01.2026 12min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone podcast, Caroline Massey, Social Media Specialist at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners behind the scenes of the Marketing team’s annual in-person meeting at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos.From destination insight shared by the resort’s General Manager to forward-looking conversations around travel trends, branding, and advisor-facing resources, the episode offers a well-rounded look at what is shaping travel marketing today.Hear from:  • Arturo Esponda, General Manager, Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos• Quinn Embry, Senior Marketing Manager, Classic Vacations• Jill Martin, Graphic Designer & Creative Lead, Classic Vacations• Macey Cruz, Account Manager, Product Marketing, Classic Vacations• Gabrielle Obligacion, Account Manager, Product Marketing, Classic VacationsThis episode delivers actionable marketing takeaways, destination perspective, and expert insight designed to support how travel professionals sell and promote travel.
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  A Classic Conversation at Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences 16.12.2025 23min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, the Classic Vacations® Sales team invites listeners inside their team meeting at Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences in Saint Lucia. From behind-the-scenes insight into the Windjammer Landing resort experience to a closer look at what makes Saint Lucia such a compelling destination, the conversation explores the island’s appeal, the value of strong hotel partnerships, and how Classic supports travel advisors through expertise and strategic collaboration.Hear firsthand from: • Arlien Dyer, Director of Sales and Marketing, Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences • Jess Pavloff, Strategic Account Manager, Classic Vacations • Julia Jakkaraju, Director of National Accounts, Classic Vacations• Francisco Rello, Strategic Account Manager, Groups, Classic Vacations • Marie Smith, Strategic Account Manager of Key Accounts, Classic Vacations• Christian Licea, Business Development Manager, Classic Vacations Tune in for an on-the-ground perspective from the Sales team, along with valuable destination and resort insights that bring the island to life.
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  A Classic Conversation at the Reservations Training Event 24.10.2025 20min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Caroline Massey, Social Media Specialist at Classic Vacations®, brings listeners to Las Vegas for Classic’s annual Reservations Training Event. Amid the energy of learning and connection, Caroline sits down with hotel partners from around the world to discuss what makes their properties truly exceptional.Hear from: • Andrew Pike, Managing Director, The Red Carnation Hotel Collection• Ray Benevides, Fairmont Resorts Hawaii• Juan Vela, Chief Executive Officer, Velas Resorts• Garry Perotin, Complex Director of Leisure Sales, Conrad Punta de Mita & Hilton Los CabosFrom personalized service to signature experiences that leave a lasting impression, this episode is packed with insights designed to expand travel advisors’ expertise and elevate how they present these standout luxury properties to their clients.
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  A Classic Conversation in the Maldives 26.08.2025 4min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Jess Pavloff, Strategic Account Manager at Classic Vacations®, takes listeners to the breathtaking islands of the Maldives during a recent familiarization trip. From overwater bungalows to crystal-clear lagoons, Jess explores what makes this destination truly extraordinary.Joined by travel advisors and hotel partners, the conversation highlights the trip’s unforgettable moments, along with surprising insights and hidden gems travelers may not know about the Maldives.Hear firsthand from:• Haseef Ahmed, Six Senses Kanuhura Maldives• Joanna Johnsen, Fora Travel• Daly Donnellan, Departure Lounge TravelGet an insider’s perspective on one of the world’s most sought-after bucket-list destinations and gain valuable takeaways straight from the heart of the Maldives.
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  A Classic Conversation about Saint Lucia 14.08.2025 13min

  In this episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Julia Jakkaraju, Luxury Sales Director at Classic Vacations®, gives an insider’s look at Saint Lucia’s most captivating resorts. Discover what makes each property unique, Julia's heartfelt connections with the people of Saint Lucia, and why this island stays with you long after you leave.Get insider insights on:Windjammer Landing Cap Maison Resort & SpaAnse Chastanet & Jade MountainWhether you're a travel advisor eager to deepen your expertise or dreaming of a Caribbean escape, this conversation is packed with insider tips and island inspiration you won’t want to miss.
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  A Classic Conversation in Greece 29.07.2025 12min

  In this on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Vicky Chalkiadaki, Senior Product Development Manager for Europe, and Gabrielle Obligacion, Account Manager, Product Marketing, take listeners on a journey through Greece as they visit some of Classic Vacations®’ hotel partners.From the iconic islands of Mykonos and Santorini to the historic heart of Athens, Vicky and Gabrielle sit down with top hospitality leaders to uncover what truly sets these properties apart.Hear firsthand from:• Anastasios Naoum, Commercial Director at Myconian Collection Hotels & Resorts• Rose Vernikou, Director of Sales at Domes Resorts • Stavrini Filippou, Assistant Director of Sales at Electra Hotels• Kalia Konstantinidou, Owner of Empiria GroupWhether planning a Greek itinerary or seeking to deepen product knowledge across Europe, this episode offers insider tips straight from the source.
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  A Classic Conversation in Italy 25.06.2025 6min

  In this special on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Jess Pavloff, Luxury Sales Business Development Manager at Classic Vacations®, brings listeners along on a recent familiarization trip through Sicily and Rome. Joined by travel partners and local experts, Jess explores why Italy remains a top destination — and how Classic’s in-depth European expertise helps advisors craft unforgettable journeys.Hear from: • Winnie O'Keefe, Whimsie Luxury Travel• Alessandro Longo, Product Development Manager, Europe at Classic Vacations• Eloisa Bianchi, Six Senses Rome• Giacomo, Tour Guide in SicilyGet an inside look at one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations — with insights and inspiration straight from the heart of Italy.
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  A Classic Conversation at Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa 08.05.2025 6min

  In this on-location episode of the Know Zone Podcast, Tisa Sanchez, Caribbean Product Manager at Classic Vacations®, transports listeners to the pristine shores of South Caicos in the Turks & Caicos Islands. Recorded during an exclusive familiarization trip, Tisa sits down with Michael Tibbetts, Chief Executive Officer and owner of the brand-new Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, for an inspiring conversation.From vision to grand opening, discover how Salterra is setting a new standard in Caribbean luxury. Tune in to hear about:• What sets Salterra apart from other Caribbean resorts• Incredible wildlife on and around South Caicos• Why this property is the perfect fit for your clients’ next island escapeGet an inside look at one of the Caribbean’s newest luxury resorts — with valuable insights and inspiration straight from the shores of South Caicos.Salterra will be available to book at classicvacations.com starting May 10, 2025.