Shows
Luxury Travel InsiderVancouver Island | Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge: Into the WildToday we’re venturing off the beaten path—way off—to a remote corner of Vancouver Island, where Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge invites you to disconnect from the world and reconnect with something deeper. Set between ancient rainforest and the icy waters of Clayoquot Sound, this lodge pairs rugged adventure with refined luxury in a way that few places on Earth can. Think heli-accessed sea caves, Michelin Key dining in the wilderness, and the possibility of spotting a black bear before breakfast. Joining me is General Manager Sarah Cruse. We talk about everything from the ancient trees...2025-07-2344 min
Luxury Travel InsiderRanch at Rock Creek | Owner, Jim Manley: A Dream Comes True, America's Most Expensive Hotel, and The Last Best PlaceMy guest today is a bit of a renaissance man. Jim Manley is the Chairman of Atlantic Pacific Capital… and also the VERY hands on owner of one of the top properties in all of the United States - The Ranch at Rock Creek. Located in a hidden valley, nestled against a sparkling clear creek, in the heart of Western Montana, Ranch at Rock Creek is the only Forbes 5 Star guest ranch in the world. Whether you spend your days fly fishing, horseback riding, sipping whiskey in the Silver Dollar Saloon, or relaxing in the sp...2025-06-2527 min
Style Your Dreams Podcast with Keri BlairLiving Your Dreams: Sarah Groen's Tips for Turning Passion into Profits
Welcome back to Style Your Dreams! In this episode, Keri dives into the world of luxury travel with Sarah Groen, the passionate owner of Bell & Bly Travel.
Discover Sarah's journey from finance to fulfilling her childhood dream of exploring the globe. Get ready to be inspired by her unique approach to travel planning and the power of following your passions.
Key Highlights:
• Sarah's Journey to Success: Explore how Sarah transitioned from the corporate world to following her passion for travel, turning an accidental opportunity into a thriving ca...2024-06-2647 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSki Travel | Rick Reichsfeld & Olympian Richelle Blanken: Finding Perfect Powder, The Best Après-Ski in Europe, and How Skiing Brings us TogetherToday… we’re going skiing! And not just in Colorado, or Utah, or California - but all over the world from Chile, to Japan, to Italy and France. Our guests today are the brother and sister team, Rick Reichsfeld and Richelle Blanken. The duo grew up skiing competitively, both raced in college, and then Richelle even raced professionally. When Richelle left the national team - brother and sister teamed up to find a way to make a living from helping others experience the joy of skiing around the world. We discuss everything from their best tips...2023-11-0842 min
Luxury Travel InsiderBhutan | Six Senses Lodges: Gross National Happiness, A Place Where Time Slows Down, and The Value of KindnessToday we visit the magical Kingdom of Bhutan. My guest Sally Baughen is the General Manager of five newly built Six Senses lodges situated across five diverse valleys - rich with experiences, natural beauty, and surprising new ways to look at life. Though you can visit each lodge independently, the wellness gurus at Six Senses have designed it as a kind of journey - traveling through the country focusing outward on the experiences and culture and inward on your own experience of wellness. In Punakha you might visit locals in a rice paddy by day and focus...2023-11-0140 min
Luxury Travel InsiderFamily Travel | Expert, Magali Dechelette: Crafting Magical Moments and The Art of Traveling With KidsInstead of diving into a gorgeous hotel or fabulous destination, we’re jumping headlong into the nuance of family travel with my partner, and one of the world’s top experts, Magali Dechelette. So often our clients think that kids need to be in their teens to enjoy Europe, or that family travel is just too difficult. So we’re here today to dispel that myth. Whether you’re doing a treasure hunt at the Louvre, making your own paella dinner in Madrid, or going through gladiator training outside of Rome - I promise, there IS a way...2023-10-0437 min
Luxury Travel InsiderLuxury Travel Insider | A Birthday CelebrationWelcome to a very special episode of Luxury Travel Insider! As we celebrate three incredible years of this podcast, we're ready to shake things up. In a nice twist, our host, Sarah Groen, is stepping into the guest spotlight for the day. Leading the interview are two of our most treasured guests from previous shows. Valentina De Santis, the visionary owner and CEO of Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Passalacqua in the Lake Como, one of the best hotels in Italy. And joining her is Fernando Polanco, the managing director and co-owner of Hacienda Zuleta, an...2023-09-201h 02
Luxury Travel InsiderAngama Mara | Owners, Nicky & Kate: A Mother Daughter Team, The Filming of Meryl Streep's Out of Africa, and The Heart of KenyaToday’s guests are Nicky Fitzgerald and Kate Fitzgerald Boyd - the mother-daughter duo who own and run Angama Mara in Kenya. Of the thousands of safari lodges across Africa, Angama Mara is always mentioned as one of the best. If you are the kind of person who loves heart-stoppingly beautiful views, this is the place for you. Not only can you lean over your balcony and be suspended over the Maasai Mara National Park - but you can do it style. Nicky and her late husband Steve are weaved into the modern hi...2023-08-1653 min
Luxury Travel InsiderCroatia | Alberto Dittadi: An Insider's Dubrovnik, The Land of Truffles, and the Art of Enjoying LifeToday we’re discussing the fabulous destination of Croatia. If you’re not dying to make a visit after hearing these amazing stories, I am just not sure that we can be friends! Whether you’re sipping Istrian wines with a local, going canyoneering and white water rafting, or relaxing on a yacht while island hopping Dalmatia, you’ll certainly learn all about the Croatian phrase, Polako - meaning - slow down and enjoy life. Our guest today is Alberto Dittadi, an expert in the region and definitely someone you’d like to slow down and enjoy...2023-06-0741 min
Luxury Travel Insider(Rerun) Awasi | Co-Founder, Matias de Cristóbal: Patagonia to Iguazu, Storytelling Through Food, and the Luxury of Time & SpaceToday we’re discussing the icons of South America - Patagonia, The Atacama, and Iguazu - with one of the region’s most visionary leaders - Matias de Cristobal. I lead here by telling you about the places and the people before mentioning the hotel, because paraphrasing, Matias’, the focus should be on the experience that is brought to life by the surroundings and nurtured with the love of the people. Awasi is a collection of three small lodges, meant to blend into nature and invoke something inside you. Regardless of whether you’re set in the m...2023-04-1944 min
Luxury Travel Insider(Rerun) Resplendent Ceylon | Owner, Malik Fernando: 50 Shades of Green, Sri Lanka's Stunning Diversity, and An Accidental HotelierOur guest today is Malik Fernando, Founder and Managing Director of Resplendent Ceylon, a collection of luxury boutique hotels in Sri Lanka. It’s hard to even call Malik’s properties hotels. They’re more like beautiful places to rest your head wrapped into a full on experience of living life and diving into Sri Lankan culture. From the palm fringed shores of Cape Weligama, to relaxing on a working tea plantation in the mountains, to being on safari at Wild Coast Tented Lodge - you can’t get more immersed than this. Malik’s father is...2022-06-2932 min
Luxury Travel InsiderIreland | Crothúr MurphyToday I’m whisking you away to experience the greenest of countryside, the freshest of salt air, and the purest heart of hospitality. A visit to Ireland will give you all this and much more. My guest today is Crothúr Murphy, a long time expert not just in tourism to Ireland, but in the history, culture, and soul of its people. Crothúr grew up here and has been showing his country off for nearly 30 years - which if you can imagine, takes a whole pot of passion at the end of the rainbow to do and d...2022-05-2545 min
Luxury Travel InsiderPsychedelics Travel | Medicine Journeys in a Luxury SettingIf you’ve been paying attention to the mental health and wellness space, you know that psychedelics have burst onto the scene in a big way. Major universities like Johns Hopkins, Yale, and Berkeley are studying their effects on PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more. Many guides and shamans in this space describe the use of psilocybin, MDMA, and other substances together with integrative therapy sessions to be equivalent to years and years of traditional therapy. And now, these plant medicine journeys are making their mark on luxury wellness travel. My guests today are Rober...2022-05-1837 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSoutheast Asia | Aman: Balanced, Understated, and DramaticMy guest today is Tom Rutherford, the Regional Director for three gorgeous Aman hotels in Southeast Asia - Amansara in Cambodia, Amantaka in Laos, and Amanoi in Vietnam. When you head to this region of the world, especially away from the hustle and bustle of the major cities… time just seems to slow down. Here there is enough time for the Laotian farmer to tend to the animals, the crops, break bread with his neighbors, and honor his family. There’s enough space on the beaches of Vietnam to quiet your mind, and enough grounding history in Cambo...2022-05-1132 min
Luxury Travel InsiderTravel Insurance | The Most Important Travel Purchase You Never Think OfWe’re talking about travel insurance and other forms of travel protection. I can’t tell you how many myths abound about this aspect of travel - from thoughts that claims don’t get paid anyway, to not fully understanding why it’s so important. We insure our cars, our watches, our dog’s vet bills - and even though luxury travelers are spending MUCH more on their trips than on these items… they don’t all insure. Over the past two years in my business I can’t tell you how valuable having travel insurance has been...2022-05-0444 minLuxury Travel InsiderAntarctica | Patrick Woodhead: Modern Explorers, Luxury Camps, and Untouched WildernessToday we find ourselves on “The Ice” deep in the heart of Antarctica. And I mean the interior of Antarctica, land of majestic mountains, the Emperor Penguin, and the magnetic south pole. Though you once had to go on months long expeditions to reach these destinations, you can now fly five hours on a Gulfstream from Cape Town and experience all the Great White has to offer from the comfort of a luxury camp. Our guest today is Patrick Woodhead - founder and CEO of White Desert, the logistics and hospitality company that can make all th...2022-04-2748 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSeaDream Yacht Club | President, Bob Lepisto on Yachting vs CruisingToday we’re chatting with Bob Lepisto, President of Sea Dream Yacht Club. SeaDream owns two mega yachts, each with about 50 cabins. The biggest no no when talking about SeaDream is to call it a cruise! Bob has been with the company for 20 years so we get to chat about the history of the cruise industry and how with SeaDream they wanted to start something different. Something where you wouldn’t have to organize your own yacht and all the work that goes along with that, but where you’d still get the yachting experience. SeaDream...2022-04-2047 minLuxury Travel InsiderAmalfi & St. Petersburg | A Belmond Panel on Cocktails & CaviarWe’re shaking it up today with a panel of food and beverage experts from one of our favorite hotel brands, Belmond! Together we’ll explore the skill and hard work that goes into creating some of your favorite drinks - from the shorelines of Italy to the palaces of St. Petersburg. Our guests today are: Tommaso Mansi and Nikita Yurin. Tommaso is the head bar manager at the stunning Belmond Caruso hotel situated along the Amalfi Coast. He is also a local and an expert in lemon production, one of the key ingredients in any g...2022-04-1339 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSpain | Elena Florez: A Country of Festivals, Tapas, and Unspoiled LandscapesImagine looking up at a blanket of stars, the sound of the ocean lapping, and the smell of sea air mixed with sweet pine. Then picture another scene - crowds squealing with excitement, bulls rushing by, and a cup of sangria refreshing your soul. Today we’re discussing the country of Spain - a place so diverse it may as well be a hundred different destinations in one! Whether you’re here to focus on world class gastronomy, experience local festivals, or just relax in the sun, this dynamic country has it all. Our guest today...2022-04-0642 min
Luxury Travel InsiderNew Zealand Reopens!| Owner Southern Crossings, Sarah Farag: Don't Miss the North Island, A History of The Luxury Lodges, and The Story of a Junior RangerToday we’re discussing the iconic destination of New Zealand. Known for sweeping vistas, life-giving hiking, sumptuous food and wine, and ridiculous adventure activities. Though famous for towns like Queenstown - the real magic of New Zealand happens when you get to have vast open spaces all to yourself. With the right planning and guides, that can happen quite easily! Our guest today is my friend Sarah Farag, Owner and Director of Southern Crossings New Zealand. The company has been around for 34 years and hosts everyone from your everyday traveler to celebrities and royals. Sarah is...2022-03-3031 minLuxury Travel InsiderVilla Rentals | Laura Blair: Exclusivity, Customization, and Privacy as the New LuxuryToday we’re talking about a particular type of travel that is gaining popularity around the world - villa rentals. In the past this kind of travel was reserved for the uber wealthy and very well connected. Finding amazing villas in Italy or San Tropez was a nightmare, and imagine renting something so expensive sight unseen or with one photo sent you in black and white and via fax machine! Then came the advent of home rental websites which have really opened up this type of travel to the every day person… but for our luxury...2022-03-2328 minLuxury Travel InsiderFrance | Coquillade Provence: A Cyclists Paradise, Blooming Lavender, and 10 Centuries of HistoryToday we’re headed to Provence in Southern France to be well, soak up the sun, and inhale the scent of lavender. This special region has so much to offer, from intense outdoor activities to easy bike rides, to impressionist history, and of course a refreshing glass of rose’. Our guest today is Alain Bachmann, the GM of a special property near Luberon called Coquillade. This gem was originally built in the 11th century and much of that history is preserved. Today, it’s a haven for all kinds of travelers, from those who are training...2022-03-1631 minLuxury Travel InsiderSwitzerland | Mario Wuersch: Stunning Vistas, Glamorous Ski Villages, and Discovering the Country by TrainToday we’re touching down in the Alps… the Swiss Alps to be precise. In this most stunning of landscapes we’ll encounter over 7,000 lakes, four different spoken languages, some of the world’s best chocolate, and an abundance of charming villages and towns. Switzerland is a mecca for cultural tourists, spa goers, and anyone who appreciates the majestic outdoors. My guest today is Mario Wuersch, Swiss himself and an expert in luxury travel to the country. Mario’s company has been around since 1865 and we discuss what travel was like back then, how it’s evolved, and...2022-03-0937 minLuxury Travel InsiderWindstar Cruises | Chris Prelog: Cruising the Black Sea, Luxury Sailing Yachts, and The Joy of ExplorationOur guest today is Chris Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises - a small ship cruise line that focuses on sailing vessels… yes.. With actual sails! Imagine yourself on deck of one of these magical ships, pulling out of port, the 1492 Conquest of Paradise song playing, sails unrolling, and heading into the open ocean. What nostalgia for a time gone by! Except on Windstar you’re also met with every modern comfort, fabulous destinations like Tahiti, The Black Sea, Iceland, and the Mediterranean, and an in depth exploration of the world. Chris and I chat a...2022-03-0236 min
Luxury Travel InsiderWindstar Cruises | Chris Prelog: Cruising the Black Sea, Luxury Sailing Yachts, and The Joy of ExplorationOur guest today is Chris Prelog, President of Windstar Cruises - a small ship cruise line that focuses on sailing vessels… yes.. With actual sails! Imagine yourself on deck of one of these magical ships, pulling out of port, the 1492 Conquest of Paradise song playing, sails unrolling, and heading into the open ocean. What nostalgia for a time gone by! Except on Windstar you’re also met with every modern comfort, fabulous destinations like Tahiti, The Black Sea, Iceland, and the Mediterranean, and an in depth exploration of the world. Chris and I chat about the sp...2022-03-0203 minLuxury Travel InsiderPanama | Expert Panel: The Tiny Country that Changed the WorldToday we’re chatting about Panama and all its beauty, diversity, culture, and history. Believe it or not this small country has shaped the course of our entire planet. Scientists say that the formation of the isthmus is what changed the climate to allow ideal conditions for humans to thrive, and today that same isthmus boats a certain canal that has a lot to do with making your daily Amazon purchases happen! Now as for travel - Panama is your oyster. Whether you’re coming for surfing, for cloud forests, to learn about indigenous culture, or for...2022-02-2341 minLuxury Travel InsiderScotland | The Gleneagles Hotel: Falconry, Gundogs, and a Glorious PlaygroundToday we travel to a very special corner of the world, called Gleneagles. Set amongst lush, green, Scottish countryside in the shadow of Stirling Castle, Gleneagles drips with history, elegance, and flair. Over the last one hundred years this estate has hosted Presidents, Lords, celebrities, Wimbledon champs, and of course the everyday luxury traveler like you and me. Whether you are visiting for rest and relaxation, to experience the falconry and gundog school, or to dine at the best restaurant in Scotland - Gleneagles has something for you. Our guest today is Conor O’Leary, Man...2022-02-1625 min
Luxury Travel InsiderAustralia Reopens!| Rerun: Australia's Luxury Lodges, Experiencing Aboriginal Culture, and The Power of RelationshipsToday we’re exploring the country of Australia, famous for its icons like the Sydney Opera House, the Outback, and the Great Barrier Reef. The dazzling landscape is fit for the movies from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. To try to understand the country at a deeper level, we have three guests with us today. My friend and partner in the region, Stuart Rigg - an expert in luxury Australia itineraries, Charlie Carlow - the owner of the fabulous Wild Bush Luxury Lodges, and Clarence Slockee a musician, dancer, well known horticulturist, sometimes television show host, an...2022-02-0936 min
Luxury Travel InsiderPuglia | Borgo Egnazia: Charming Local Villages, The Origin of Burrata, and Where Tradition Meets InnovationI’m excited to uncover the Puglia region of Italy with you today. While visiting Puglia, you might feel like you’re stepping back into the Italy seen in the movies of the 50s and 60s. You’ll stroll through charming villages, meet locals who still do things the traditional way, sample ultra fresh burrata cheese and olive oil, and of course enjoy the gorgeous waters of the Adriatic. Our guest today is Aldo Melpignano, owner and managing director of the famed Borgo Egnazia hotel and several other spots in his family’s collection. Aldo an...2022-02-0237 minLuxury Travel InsiderCanada | Marc Telio: A Mosaic of Cultures, Majestic Landscapes, and Understanding First NationsToday we’re whisking you away to a vast and varied land. Where you’ll find lush rainforests, Arctic tundra, mountain peaks over 19,000 feet, cosmopolitan cities, great open plains, vivid turquoise lakes, and rugged coastal beauty. Where is this magical land you might ask? Look no further than our beautiful neighbor to the north, Canada. My guest today is Marc Telio, founder and CEO of Entree Destinations, who has been exploring his country through the eyes of travelers for nearly 30 years. We chat about everything from how to learn about and honor First Nation...2022-01-2638 min
Luxury Travel InsiderPhilippines | Amanpulo: Swimming with Turtles, Shooting Stars, and Embracing SimplicityMy guest today is Audeline Witjaksono, the Regional Director for several Aman hotels in Asia, as well as GM of Amanpulo in the Philippines. Just speaking with Audeline and soaking up the vibes from her location calmed me and brought my always on the go energy down a couple notches… so imagine actually being there! Amanpulo is set on a far flung private island, nestled in the western part of the Philippines, yet it is surprisingly easy to get to from Manilla. And while you’d expect (and get!) powder fine sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and warm...2022-01-1942 min
Luxury Travel InsiderGalapagos | Meet The Guides: Pacha Mama, Incredible Wildlife, and Passionate NaturalistsHere’s the inside scoop on this episode. In late 2021 I traveled to the Galapagos and thought it would be fun to try something new on the pod. My goal was to capture the stories of locals, guides, and even some of the wildlife through sounds and live experiences. So what you’re about to hear is a compilation of interviews, live sounds from our explorations, and hopefully a whole lotta inspiration! We discuss what makes the Galapagos utterly unique in the world, what it was like for some of our guides to grow up...2022-01-121h 08
Luxury Travel InsiderIreland | Ashford Castle: An 800 Year Old Castle, Secret Trap Doors, and How Slow Travel is The Way to Experience IrelandRobert Bowe is one of the top guest experience managers at Ashford Castle in Western Ireland. Ashford may be an 800 year old castle, but it’s also a modern day icon in the world of luxury travel. Driving up to the castle, you’ll feel like you’re in Camelot - you’ll first see the lush green grounds set next to the ocean. Then you’ll discover the history, the secret passageways, and the fine silks and antiques throughout the property. It sounds like it could be stuffy - but it’s not. The service comes from the hea...2022-01-0521 min
Luxury Travel InsiderBurgundy | Le Relais Bernard Loiseau: A Chef’s Legacy, The French Art de Vivre, and World Class WinesToday we’re headed into the heart of Burgundy for an education on French cuisine and hospitality. We’ll start by meeting an infinitely interesting cast of characters - first, my guest Bérangère Loiseau. Then we’ll learn about her mother, Dominique (a biochemist turned top hotelier) and finally, Bérangère’s world-famous chef of a father, Bernard Loiseau. Along the way we’ll learn interesting tidbits on what it takes to become a 3 Michelin Star Chef, how Chef Bernard Loiseau changed the culinary world, and how the family turned their passion for food and hos...2021-12-2940 min
Luxury Travel InsiderMalta | Damon Allan: The Order of Malta, Village Feasts, and 7,000 Years of HistoryToday we’re discussing the historical destination of Malta. This small chain of islands in the Mediterranean Sea has been smack dab in the middle of African, Arab, and European conquests for over 7,000 years. If the word Malta conjures up cute white puppies and James Bond like movie scenes, I think you’ll find that’s not quite the truth. Our guest today is Damon Camilleri Allan, our partner in planning trips to this island nation. We discuss everything from village feasts, to The Order of Malta, to the interesting melting pot that is the Maltese c...2021-12-2228 min
Luxury Travel InsiderThe Evolution of Travel | Matthew Upchurch, CEO of VirtuosoToday’s show is about the evolution of travel - from the golden age of plane travel starting in the late 40s, to the excesses of the 80s, to the rapid changes brought about by the internet, 9/11, and the Covid-19 Pandemic. My guest today is one of the most influential people in the luxury travel world, Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso Travel. Matthew tells stories of how travel planning was done before the internet and explains what Virtuoso is and why every luxury traveler should know about it. We also discuss the benefits of travel, how...2021-12-151h 07
Luxury Travel InsiderVersailles | Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle: A Dream Hotel INSIDE The Walls of VersaillesImagine yourself standing in a huge square… light glinting off gilded gates adorned with sun shaped medallions. The scent of lemon trees and orange blossoms fills the air. You’re surrounded by the spirit of some of the most important historical figures who have ever lived. When you realize you’re not in a dream, you’ll see that you’re standing at the Palace of Versaille. And shortly thereafter, be whisked away to a private 12 room hotel on the grounds of the palace called Le Grand Contrôle. Our guest today, is Julien Révah, the Gene...2021-12-0838 min
Luxury Travel InsiderExpedition Yachting | EYOS Expeditions: Visiting The Mariana Trench, Extravagant Antarctica, and True DiscoveryThis week we’re exploring the most remote corners of the world. In Antarctica - heading deep into the continent to uncover the South Pole. In the Pacific - diving the depths of the Mariana Trench, and in the tropics - visiting uninhabited islands that few people have ever stepped foot on. All this and more can be had with the advent of Expedition Yachting - the ability to charter a private vessel complete with all the bells and whistles, and have it all to yourself. Ben Lyons, the CEO of EYOS Expeditions, joins us to...2021-12-0139 min
Luxury Travel InsiderLuxury Hotel Design | Bill Bensley: A Man of Many Talents, A Passion for Conservation, And The Importance of Continuous LearningI’m so excited today to be speaking with travel lover and true renaissance man - Bill Bensley. If you haven’t heard of Bill, you’ve CERTAINLY heard of some of the hotels he’s designed. World renowned projects like Capella Ubud, Four Seasons Tented Camp, Shinta Mani and more. Before any of these were notable on the world’s stage, before any of them were even built - Bill was there. Soaking in the curve of the land, the angle at which the moon shines, and the direction from which the wind blows. He takes his inspir...2021-11-1743 min
Luxury Travel InsiderRwanda | One & Only + Volcanoes National Park: On Conservation, Thrilling Moments with Gorillas, and The Hope of AfricaWe’re taking you on a journey today to the inspirational country of Rwanda. While not often first on the list of most travelers, those who make it here are absolutely captivated by the people, who have rebuilt their lives and their country so authentically. After a warm welcome, visitors to this nook of Africa will then be further blown away by likely the most impactful wildlife experience of their lives - sitting face to face with an endangered Mountain Gorilla. And, luckily for these travelers, they can do it in style at One & Only’s two...2021-11-1053 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSicily | Barbara Iaccarino: The Spicy Side of ItalyToday we find ourselves strolling along the coastlines of Taormina, the historical walkways of Palermo, and in the shadow of the gorgeous Mt. Etna. I’m so excited to be chatting with my friend, Barbara Iaccarino to dive into the fascinating island of Sicily. Any mention of Sicily conjures up mafiosos eating cannoli and stunning coastal vistas - but Barbara helps us go a bit deeper and to understand the melting pot of cultures that have influenced this region over thousands of years. We chat about everything from family adventures, to local handicrafts, to...2021-11-0333 min
Luxury Travel InsiderWellness Travel | Canyon Ranch: Profound Experiences, Aha Moments, and The Power of TransformationI’m so excited today to be chatting with the CEO of a place that is near and dear to my heart, Canyon Ranch. Canyon Ranch is a pioneer in the wellness industry, a place where you can get away from the stress of everyday life and focus on what is most important. That focus is different for everyone who visits the ranch - whether you need a mental break from work, you’re focused on improving your health, or you’re interested in finding spirituality - Canyon Ranch will mold itself around you and help you find t...2021-10-2736 min
Luxury Travel InsiderBritish Virgin Islands | Rosewood Little Dix Bay: Rockefellers, Royalty, and a Private Escape in ParadiseToday 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 in...2021-10-2031 min
Luxury Travel InsiderWendy Perrin: The Importance of Becoming a Global Citizen + The Difference Between Vacation and TravelI’m so thrilled today to be speaking with travel Guru, Wendy Perrin. When I first met Wendy, I was totally fan-girling, and was even more surprised when I asked her to come on the show and she enthusiastically and quickly said.. Yes! I’ve since found that this enthusiasm defines Wendy. From her desire to help promote travel, to excitement about learning new things, to helping people of all backgrounds and statures. If you haven’t heard of Wendy, she had an illustrious 25 year career at Conde Nast Traveler, is a published author, and runs We...2021-10-1350 min
Houston Innovators PodcastEpisode 104 - Innovating in the travel industry - Sarah Groen of Bell & Bly TravelSarah Groen is the founder of Bell & Bly Travel and a longtime member of the Houston innovation ecosystem. Sarah co-founded Surge, Houston’s first startup accelerator, years ago. Since then, she’s seen Houston’s startup activity blossom as she expanded her entrepreneurial journey into the luxury travel industry. Sarah joins the show today to discuss her innovation career and what she’s up to now — as well as her best pieces of advice for fellow female founders.2021-10-0632 min
Luxury Travel InsiderRomania | Raluca Spiac: Remarkable Biodiversity, Stories of Resilience, and Seeing Beyond DraculaToday we’re visiting the most bio geographically diverse country in the European Union to explore dazzling waterfalls, UNESCO protected medieval villages, snow capped mountains, and sandy black sea beaches. But you may have never heard of these treasures as they are all hidden in plain sight, behind the large as life myth of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Romania is a country not of vampires and werewolves, but of resilient people living amongst some of the most spectacular natural beauty on the continent. Our guest today is one of these people - Raluca Spiac, who afte...2021-10-0639 min
Luxury Travel InsiderNature Travel | Ben Bressler: Close Up Encounters with Polar Bears, Wolves, and Tigers + Raising the Bar on ConservationToday you’ll come face to face with a polar bear, see a herd of twenty elephants passing by your picnic setup, and hear the wings flap of 500,000 monarch butterflies. The topic of today’s show is nature travel, and my guest is Ben Bressler, Founder and CEO of Natural Habitat Adventures - a company that achieves their mission of conservation through helping you explore the wilderness. Whether you’re in India tracking tigers, or just in your own backyard enjoying the wonders of a tiny hummingbird, there is an awe in observing the natural world...2021-09-2946 min
Luxury Travel InsiderMaldives | Alex Chambers: World Class Surfing, Overwater Bungalows, and Lesser Known GemsImagine yourself floating in crystal clear, turquoise waters with fringes of palm trees rustling in the breeze, and not a soul in sight. This may sound like a fantasy but it happens with regularity in the Maldives. This gorgeous chain of atolls sprawling across the Indian Ocean is one of the best places on the planet to disconnect and feel immersed in nature. And when you’ve had your fill of relaxing you can dive with whale sharks, surf some of the best breaks in the world, and dine in underwater restaurants. Our guest today is A...2021-09-2242 min
Luxury Travel InsiderOman | Taimur Al-said: Palm Fringed Oases, The Silence of the Empty Quarter, and Luxury Camping Under the StarsI’m excited to take you to one of my favorite countries today, the Sultanate of Oman. Located on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, this hidden gem boasts rugged mountain ranges bursting with roses, terraced orchards of pomegranates, vast sand dune deserts, and date palm fringed oases dotted with crystal clear limestone pools of water. One of the best ways to experience Oman is by camping and spending time with a local guide. So our guest today is Taimur Al-said, the owner of Hud Hud Travels. Taimur specializes in luxury camp set ups so th...2021-09-1531 min
Luxury Travel InsiderThailand | Expert panel: Discovering the Essence of Thailand Through Food, Textiles, and Off the Beaten Path DestinationsWe’re shaking it up today with a panel of experts on one of my favorite countries, Thailand! Together we’ll explore the bustling capital of Bangkok, stunning national parks, and the culture of this fascinating country. Our guests today are: James Beard Award Winning Chef, Andy Ricker, who lives in Chiang Mai and is an expert in Northern Thai cuisine. Oh, and he showed Anthony Bourdain around the area in an episode of Parts Unknown. Next we have Ake Rittinapakorn, who is a scholar and expert in Southeast Asian arts, antiques, and text...2021-09-0857 min
Luxury Travel InsiderBelmond Venice Simplon Orient Express | GM, Pascal Deyrolle: The Magic of Train Travel, Snowfall in the Alps, and Traveling Back in TimeToday we’re whisking you away on a captivating journey aboard the Venice Simplon Orient Express. With a history dating back to 1883, this train route has transported aristocrats and historic figures like Tolstoy, Trotsky, Marlene Dietrich, and Lawrence of Arabia. Many of the cars of the Venice Simplon are original cars from the 1920s and all are painstakingly restored to preserve the charm of the day. Our guest today is Pascal Deyrolle, who started as a cabin steward on the train 30 years ago and is today the General Manager in charge of all train operations....2021-09-0137 min
Luxury Travel InsiderAlaska | Owner Kirsten Dixon, Winterlake Lodge, Tutka Bay Lodge: Sustainability, Alaskan Cuisine, and Enjoying the Bright & Shiny Parts of LifeToday’s show is about Alaska and two of it’s top luxury lodges, Winterlake and Tutka Bay Lodge. But it’s also about so much more! Our guest is owner and chef, Kirsten Dixon and after our recording I was asking her to be my mentor! Alaska is a destination that captures the imaginations of people from all over the world. It’s pristine beauty and rugged wilderness have so much to teach us. Travel has always been near and dear to my heart because it helps us to feel small, to realize how wide the world is...2021-08-2544 minLuxury Travel InsiderLux Adventure Travel | Ian Wick: Heliskiing Iceland, Fly Fishing Patagonia, and Truly Customized AdventuresToday we’re traveling the globe searching for unexpected experiences, off the grid lodges, and truly customized adventure activities. One of my favorite places to look for this unique combo is to my friends at Eleven Experience. With Eleven you don’t have to sacrifice the comforts of luxury to experience some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and unique cultures. With lodges in remote parts of Patagonia, New Zealand, Iceland, France, the Bahamas, and the US - they’ve got your adventure needs covered. My guest today is Ian Wick, who runs the operations...2021-08-1835 min
Luxury Travel InsiderScotland | Expert Panel: In Search of Magical Landscapes, Unique Festivals, and Adventure ExperiencesToday we’re whisking you away to Scotland, the land of castles, whiskey, and tartan. But there’s more to experience here than just the typical stereotypes. Whether you’re coming for magnificent neolithic ruins, to cycle across the country, or to revel in some of the most authentic festivals you’ll find anywhere in the world - Scotland has something for everyone. Our guests today are Paul Easto and Stevie Christie - experts of course on Scotland, but also on active adventures around the country like kayaking, hiking, and cycling. We dive into so many ins...2021-08-1149 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSeabourn Expeditions | VP Robin West: Custom Built Ships, Experiencing the Northern Lights, and Exploring by SubmarineOur guest today is Robin West, Vice President and GM of Seabourn Expeditions - one of the first ultra-luxury companies to dive into expedition cruising. Whether you find yourself in a state-of-the-art submarine, basking in the Northern Lights, enjoying a gourmet meal onboard, exploring the untouched coastlines of Greenland, or indulging in a world-class spa treatment - you’ll be unmistakably Seabourn. Robin and I discuss how Seabourn’s new expedition ships were custom made for this unique type of travel, some of his favorite wildlife moments, and how expedition travel can awaken your curiosity and...2021-08-0348 min
Luxury Travel InsiderQuebec | Manoir Hovey: Quirky History, Fall Foliage, and A European-like GetawayWith Canada re-opening its borders soon to tourism, I’m excited to welcome our first Canadian guest on the show. We’re headed into the countryside of Quebec today to chat with Jason Stafford of Manoir Hovey, one of the top hotels in all of Canada. Though it’s set in French Canada, Manoir Hovey was actually designed after George Washington’s estate by a businessman from Georgia in the year 1900. In wondering how this could be, I unraveled the fascinating history of the town of North Hatley, where British Loyalists fled to after 1776 and were fol...2021-07-3030 min
Luxury Travel InsiderIreland | Ballyfin: Nobility, Restoration to Glory, and Costume PartiesToday we travel to a very special corner of the world, called Ballyfin. Set amongst lush, green, rolling foothills, an hour outside of Dublin, Ballyfin drips with history, beauty, and charm. Over the last two hundred years this mansion has been a family home, hosted glamorous parties for nobility, and used as a boarding school before falling into disrepair. In the early 2000s the future of one of Ireland's finest houses was looking incredibly bleak. Enter, our guest today - Jim Reynolds, an archeologist and master gardener, turned hotelier. Given his unique skillset...2021-07-2741 min
Luxury Travel InsiderCalifornia | Cal-a-Vie: A French Inspired Escape and Becoming the Best Version of YourselfWe’re heading to Southern California today, to be whisked away from all our worries and unhealthy influences at Cal-a-Vie Health Spa. Cal-a-Vie is situated in a sun-dappled valley just north of San Diego. When arriving here you’ll be greeted by lavender fields, sunflowers, and vineyards and then treated to some of the best service and luxury accommodations in the industry. Though the property was rated Travel & Leisure’s #1 Destination Health Spa in North America - it’s more than just a spa. Here you can set and achieve health goals, reset mentally, and work wit...2021-07-2336 min
Luxury Travel InsiderGermany | Thomas Tritschler: A Country of Kingdoms, Craftsmanship, and CastlesToday we’re journeying to the historic lands of Germany. What was once a country of independent principalities, is today a major European power. But those individualistic roots still shine through - in the art of winemaking outside Geisenheim, in the intricate porcelain craftsmanship of Saxony, and the friendly competition to make the best local variety of sausages. Whether you’re coming to Germany for medieval castles, racecars, the underground hip hop of Berlin, or perhaps some Oktoberfest revelry - there’s a little something here for everyone. Thomas and I touch on how German culture...2021-07-2031 min
Multiply Your Success with Dr. Tom DuFore58. Why You Need to Vacation—Sarah Groen, President, Bell & Bly TravelWhen is the last time you took a vacation? A real vacation to unplug and get away? If it has been more than a year or two it has been too long. Our guest today, Sarah Groen, shares why you need to make sure you are taking a regular vacation. **Visit Sarah's travel company Bell & Bly Travel: https://bellandblytravel.com/**Subscribe to Sarah's Podcast, "Luxury Travel Insider": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/luxury-travel-insider/id1531431418ABOUT OUR GUESTSarah is a Houston-based travel advisor, entrepreneur and investor.After earning a...2021-07-1937 min
Luxury Travel InsiderNew Zealand | Robertson Lodges: From Sheep Farm to Luxury Lodges, and Heli-golfing Award Winning CoursesI’m thrilled to take you back to New Zealand today, the home of the worlds most magnificent landscapes, the cuddliest kiwi birds, and heart-pumping adventure activities. Specifically we’re learning about some of the country’s top luxury lodges - Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers on the North Island and Matakauri near Queenstown. Whether you’re helicoptering to an alpine lake for a special picnic, exploring the Cliffs of Hawks Bay by can-am, or golfing one of the top 100 golf courses in the world - you will surely be wowed at every turn. Joining us is Ja...2021-07-1634 min
Next Up Nation - The Secrets to a Profitable and Popular PodcastHow Podcasting Creates Momentum for a Travel Industry Insider, with Sarah GroenREAL STORIES: Listen as Sarah Groen, the founder of Bell and Bly Travel, shares how her business pivoted innovatively to thrive beyond the pandemic. https://bellandblytravel.com/ Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeNQGRHNzILQWBUMieDDPsw Get Your Special Gift: https://nextupnation.com/listeners Book a Podcasting Consultation: https://nextupnation.com/getstarted Sarah's luxury travel advisor business has managed brilliantly with the value their podcast brings into this industry. Expert advice from seasoned travelers and industry insider secrets have boosted the popularity of her show. About the Next Up Nat...2021-07-1447 min
Luxury Travel InsiderNormandy & Brittany | Adrienne O'Donoghue: Powerful D-Day Stories, The Birthplace of Impressionism, and Getting Lost in French CountrysideToday we’re discussing the regions of Normandy and Brittany - a land that has hosted Vikings, Celts, and Roman Invaders. While Normandy is certainly steeped in the emotional remains of WWII - it is also a beautiful reminder of the freedom we all enjoy today. Digging a bit deeper here you can find delicate lace, superbly fresh mussels, ancient megalithic ruins and medieval works of art. If there’s one thing that rings true about the Bretons and the Normans - it’s that they continue to honor their cultures and remain the backbone of France. ...2021-07-1337 min
Luxury Travel InsiderPatagonia, Atacama, Chiloé | Tierra Hotels: Desert Stargazing, Stunning Architecture, and Cultivating an Appreciation for Natural BeautyToday we’re discussing three gorgeous landscapes dotted across the country of Chile, with one of the owners of the iconic Tierra Hotels, Ellen Marie Guidera. Tierra Hotels are more truly lodges than hotels - with gorgeous architecture built to blend into the landscape, the friendliest local guides to make your stay unforgettable, and world class spas built to wow. Regardless of whether you’re set in Patagonia overlooking the mountain landscape, Chiloe exploring local villages on the lake, or in Atacama contemplating the universe - you’ll enter a Tierra state of mind. Ellen and I...2021-07-0931 min
Luxury Travel InsiderChina | Mei Zhang: Otherworldly Landscapes, Chinese Pop Culture, and How History Shapes SocietyI’m so excited to take you around the world to the fascinating destination of China. In a country so vast and so varied - you could presumably stay for months and still barely scratch the surface. So here to help us decode what a trip to China could look like, is Mei Zhang. Mei grew up in the western city of Dali in the Yunnan province. After graduating from Harvard Business School, and working at McKinsey, she decided to help travelers experience her homeland in a different way. In this episode, Mei paints pictures of...2021-07-0636 min
Luxury Travel InsiderVermont | Twin Farms: Luxury in Personalization, Relaxing into Your True Self, and the Wonders of the Vermont CountrysideWe’re headed to the countryside today, deep in the heart of Vermont to chat with John Graham, the Managing Director of Twin Farms. Thinking of Vermont conjures up images of fall foliage glinting fiery orange, red, and gold. You might also smell sweet maple syrup or warm apple cider, and imagine yourself in an historic general store, covered bridge, or barn. At Twin Farms, one of the most talked about hotels in America, you can experience all this and much more. The 300 acres making up the farm was purchased in the 20s by Nobel Pr...2021-07-0230 min
Luxury Travel InsiderMexico | Zach Rabinor: Witnessing the Monarch Migration, Experiencing True Mexican Culture, and Expecting the UnexpectedToday we’re discussing the multi-faceted destination of Mexico. If you’re not reevaluating what you think you know about Mexico by the end of this episode we’ll have to have a chat! Whether you’re witnessing the miracle of the monarch butterfly migration, hiking the Copper Canyon, eating mole in Oaxaca, or swimming with whale sharks - you’ll be enchanted by the Mexican culture and all the diversity this country has to offer. A true luxury experience in Mexico isn’t just about glitzy hotels in the Baja - it’s about diving deeper...2021-06-2936 min
Luxury Travel InsiderZambia & Madagascar | Time + Tide, Miavana: The Wilder Side of Safari, A Private Island, and The Power of DisconnectingI’m thrilled to take you on a journey around the world to the countries of Zambia and Madagascar today. While most safari goers think first of South Africa or maybe Kenya - Zambia offers a wilder experience. One where you can dip your toes in the sand of the African bush, experience wildlife eye to eye, and immerse yourself in untouched wilderness. Then trading one wild place for another, you can fly to Madagascar to enjoy one of the most luxurious private islands in the world, while catching glimpses of lemurs, baobab trees, and chameleons. ...2021-06-2545 min
Luxury Travel InsiderCosta Rica | Lapa Rios & Pacuare Lodge: How Tourism Changes Lives, The Richest Biodiversity in the World, and a Philosophy of Giving BackToday we’re headed back to Costa Rica - but this time deep into the jungles of Turialba and the Osa Peninsula. Our guests today are Luz Caceres and Roberto Fernandez - owners of Pacuare Lodge and Lapa Rios. Both lodges offer incredible experiences like white water rafting to check-in, close up encounters with nature, and insights into indigenous culture and sustainability. Lapa Rios is set in the most biologically intense place on EARTH, and Pacuare is so deep in the jungle that Roberto had to transport tractors and logs there via white water raft to...2021-06-2241 min
Luxury Travel InsiderFrance | Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel: A Historical Palace, Marie Antoinette, and How Paris is Always a Good IdeaI’m excited to welcome our guest today, Vincent Billiard, the General Manager of the fabulous Rosewood Hotel de Crillon in the beating heart of Paris. With it’s official designation as a Palace Hotel - a marker of the finest service and luxury anywhere in the city, you’d think Hotel de Crillion could err on the extremely traditional side. But it doesn’t. It has all the trappings of 5* service, along with an incredible history, contemporary design, and a sense of warmth designed to bring you in, and lull you into a Parisian state of m...2021-06-1832 min
Luxury Travel InsiderIsrael | Expert Panel: A Country of Contrasts, The Meaning of Kabbalah, and the Dazzling City of Tel AvivToday we’re diving into the paradox that is the country of Israel. In such a small nation you can be surrounded by tech entrepreneurs, holy men and women from multiple faiths, geopolitical conflict, world class nightlife, and natural wonders like the Dead Sea AND the Mediterranean Sea. To try to unravel some of this beautiful complexity, we have three guests on our show today. My friend and partner in the region, Yoav Gal - an expert in luxury Israel itineraries; Eyal Riess - a Rabbi in the mystical Jewish tradition of Kabbalah, and Libbi Cohen- an ex...2021-06-1152 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSpain | SHA Wellness Clinic: A New Philosophy of Wellness and Life Changing Experiences on the Mediterranean CoastI’m excited to have Alejandro Bataller with me today, to discuss his family business - SHA Wellness - a beautiful property set on the cliffs of the Mediterranean coast near the charming villages of Alicante, Spain. SHA is actually a hybrid between a top notch luxury hotel and a cutting edge medical and wellness clinic. The vision came when Alejandro’s father saw a doctor who focused on nutrition and natural therapies that cured him from a lifelong ailment. He wanted top notch treatments from many different world philosophies to be available to more people. SH...2021-06-0840 min
Luxury Travel InsiderPark Hyatt | Stories From the Luxury Concierge: Paris, Tokyo, and Buenos AiresWe’re shaking it up today with a panel of some of the world’s top concierges to spill some insider tidbits. In this episode you’ll visit the iconic cities of Tokyo, Paris, and Buenos Aires, and step into the glossy world of Park Hyatt - one of the top luxury brands in the travel world. Dominique Guidette, a past president of Le Clefs d’Or and top concierge at Park Hyatt Paris joins us and tells some hilarious stories of guest requests. Adrian Fautt joins us from the Park Hyatt Tokyo in the exact su...2021-06-0458 min
Luxury Travel InsiderFrench Polynesia | The Brando: The Billionaire's Swimming Pool, The Healing Spirit of Tetiaroa, and Marlon Brando's Passion for ConservationToday we travel to a private atoll in French Polynesia called Tetiaroa. Here you’ll find The Brando, a world famous resort composed of 35 luxury villas surrounded by a sparkling turquoise lagoon. The island was bought decades ago by Marlon Brando, who once said “Tetiaroa is beautiful beyond my capacity to describe.” So if this island left a famous actor completely speechless, imagine what it will do for you. Years later as the resort was developed, Brando’s deep passion for the island and early focus on sustainability has made the resort not only beautiful, but also...2021-06-0134 min
Mirjam Koornneef podcastInterview met Sarah Groen, moeder van Mirthe.Aflevering 35: Gesprek met Sarah Groen, moeder van Mirthe over het hebben van een kindje met een meervoudige handicap, over hoe je leven weer op te pakken. Wat de vooroordelen zijn en hoe je daadwerkelijk elkaar kan helpen.2021-05-3151 min
Luxury Travel InsiderCosta Rica | Expert Panel: Living La Pura Vida, Luxury in Conservation, and New Lux Lodge - Kasiiya PapagayoToday we’re taking a journey to one of the happiest countries in the world, Costa Rica. Costa Rica has 5% of the world’s biodiversity, 99% of its power comes from renewable energy, and 98% of its population is literate. It’s certainly a country that punches far above its weight. Whether you’re coming for surfing, to see sloths and toucans, or to find yourself alone meditating in a rainforest - Costa Rica can provide it all. We have two guests today - French/Moroccan Entrepreneur, turned hotelier - Mehdi Rheljari, and Wilhelm von Breymann...2021-05-2851 min
Levensverhaal InZicht by Maria MazarakisLevensverhaal van Sarah Groen op het InspiratiePodium in Clubhouse #10Wie is Sarah Groen?
Wat iemand doet kunnen we zien, hoe iemand zo geworden is niet. Op dit podium vraagt Maria juist naar de achterkant van iemands CV.
Sarah is partner van Mathijs, moeder van Mirthe en juf op de basisschool.
Mirthe hun dochter is meervoudig gehandicapt én het meest vrolijke kind die je maar kunt hebben. Samen met haar partner blogt en vlogt Sarah over hun leven samen. Ze ervaren dat er nog veel onbekendheid is en soms zelfs angst voor mensen met een beperking. "Mensen hebben vooroordelen en weten niet hoe ze e...2021-05-271h 14
Luxury Travel InsiderMORE Family Collection | Owner, Robert More: South African Hospitality, The Magic of Victoria Falls, and Personal Connections in the BushToday we’re headed to South Africa and Zimbabwe to speak with Robert More, the founder and owner of the More Family Collection. Robert’s collection includes famous safari lodges like Lion Sands and Marataba, city hotels like Cape Cadogan, and now two boutiques near Victoria Falls. Robert tells stories of growing up on the land, camping with friends, close calls with crocodiles, and community ties. It was these memories that inspired some amazing guest experiences like romantic treehouse accommodations in the bush. Being family owned and purpose driven, Robert views himself more as a stew...2021-05-2540 min
Luxury Travel InsiderAlentejo, Portugal | José António Uva & Gonçalo Pessoa: Wild Beaches, Warm Generosity, and the Unique Culture of Alentejo, PortugalIn this special episode, we’re diving deep into a lesser known region of Portugal, The Alentejo. Here to discuss this hidden gem with me are hoteliers José António Uva and Gonçalo Pessoa. José was an investment banker in London before returning home to cultivate land that had been in his family for eight generations. He ended up turning part of the farm into Barrocal, a gorgeous modern farm house hotel smack in the middle cork plantations, white washed villages, and two thousand year old olive trees. Gonçalo was actually an airline pilot...2021-05-2135 min
Luxury Travel InsiderLily of the Valley | Owner, Lucie Weill: Wellness in St. Tropez, Mediterranean Charm, and the Luxury of Good HealthI’m excited to have my new friend, Lucie Weill on the show today. After a career in fashion at Givenchy, Lucie left to join her father (founder of the French equivalent of CNN) to create a beautiful getaway in the South of France. Lily of the Valley is set on a cliff, surrounded by gorgeous Cypress trees, overlooking the glimmering Mediterranean Sea. While St. Tropez is known for being flashy and indulgent, here you can relax, soak up the natural beauty, and strive for that ever elusive thing we all call “balance.” Lucie and I disc...2021-05-1829 min
Luxury Travel InsiderRussia | Greg Tepper: Subtle Romanticism, Country Dachas, and Life Changing ExperiencesThere’s a saying in Russian… Better to have 100 friends than 100 rubles. And until I spoke with today’s guest - I didn’t truly understand the depth of meaning in that statement. Here to discuss the country of Russia with me is Greg Tepper. Greg has spent the last 30 years opening the eyes of visitors to one of Russia’s best kept secrets - the warmth of the Russian people once you’re part of their inner circle. Greg explains how the typical stereotypes of Russians are only surface level, and how, with the right connections - you can di...2021-05-1445 min
Luxury Travel InsiderCasa Palopó | Claudia Bosch & Katina Jongezoon: The Magic of Guatemala, Breathtaking Views, and an Incredibly Talented CommunityIf you’re the kind of luxury traveler who’s always looking for hidden gems, I’ve got one for you today! We’re chatting with mother-daughter team, Claudia Bosch and Katina Jongezoon, who own and manage Casa Palopo on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. Casa Palopo is a colonial style home set on a gorgeous lake, surrounded by the peaks of lush, green volcanic mountains. During a stay here you might find yourself relaxing poolside with a cocktail inhaling the gorgeous views, paragliding over the lake suspended by only a parachute, or visiting Santa Catarina and help...2021-05-1137 min
Luxury Travel InsiderGreece Reopens! | Canaves Oia (Re-run): How Santorini Became Famous, Secret Swimming Spots, and Lots of White PaintOur guest on this episode is Markos Chaidemenos, co-owner and Managing Director of Canaves Oia luxury properties in Santorini, Greece. Canaves is a collection of 6 of the top luxury properties in Santorini, all set in the whitewashed town of Oia, overlooking the sapphire Aegean Sea. After a day of wine tasting, bike riding around the island, or visiting centuries old ruins you can relax in your private plunge pool with a glass of champagne overlooking one of the most iconic views in the world. At Canaves you can also be sure that you’ll have privacy and ex...2021-05-0728 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSonoma, California | Joe Bartolomei & Paul Sloan: 5 Generations of Sonoma, Michelin Stars, and Handcrafted Wine MakingToday we’re diving deep into the history, culture, and passion that make Sonoma County, California such a special place. While known for being the birthplace of Californian wine, Sonoma has so much more to offer. From beautifully wild coastlines and Redwood Forest groves to some of the freshest produce, oysters, and creameries found anywhere in the world. We have two guests today, Paul Sloan - owner of Smallvines Wines and Joe Bartolomei - owner of Farmhouse Inn - a family run, luxury boutique hotel in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Bo...2021-04-3044 min
Luxury Travel InsiderCapella Hotels | CEO, Nicholas Clayton: Culture as a Core Value, The #1 Hotel in the World, Bali, Vietnam, Bangkok & MoreMy guest today is Nicholas Clayton, the CEO of Capella Hotel Group, a constellation of some of the finest hotels in the world. Whether you experience a Capella stay in Singapore or Sydney, Bangkok or Bali - you’ll be treated like a star. The team at Capella Hotels goes out of their way to help you engage deeply with the culture around you. From the design elements and local foods served within the hotel, to connecting you with locals outside the hotel. And you don’t have to take my word for it. Travel & Leis...2021-04-2737 min
Luxury Travel InsiderScandinavia | Christine Cecilie Gaffney: Slow Travel, Glass Igloos, and Beyond Spectacular LandscapesI’m so excited to have my friend, Christine Gaffney on the show today to talk about the Nordic Region of Scandinavia, Greenland, Iceland, and Finland. Mention of the Nordic region might conjure up images of Vikings, Fjords, Northern Lights, and Ice Hotels - and you’ll be sure to find all of that goodness when you visit. But the key to a fabulous experience is going deeper - finding secret spots to call your own, enjoying the world class cuisine, and taking home with you perhaps the most important souvenir of them all - the...2021-04-2342 min
The Podcast On PodcastingEp9: How Podcasting Can Serve Your Business - Sarah GroenJoin us in this insightful episode as Sarah Groen shares how she managed to run her travel agency and how her podcast has served her business pretty well. She provides guidance and support to travel planning while having friends all around the world through her podcast. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR Who is their Avatar How her podcast serves her business and what is she trying to achieve Ways to overcome the challenges as a podcaster and entrepreneur Advice and tips to those who are starting a podcast The name behind Bell & Bly Tr...2021-04-2132 min
Luxury Travel InsiderInkaterra | Founder, Jose Koechlin: A Passion for the Amazon, Preserving Machu Picchu, and a Friendship with Mick JaggerMy guest today is Jose Koechlin, the Founder and President of the iconic Inkaterra Hotels in Peru. Jose’s life's work has been to preserve the biodiversity of his country. Starting with media projects like movies and documentaries, Jose realized he could use public interest to fund deep and meaningful research and conservation efforts. Whether you stay deep in the heart of the Amazon with experienced researchers, enjoy the trappings of a 16th century home of a conquistador in Cusco, or tuck into a warm soup while bird watching near Machu Picchu - you’ll be s...2021-04-2039 min
Hacker Valley StudioEpisode 131 - Making the Most of Time Off with Sarah GroenIn this featured episode of Hacker Valley Studio podcast, Ron and Chris are joined by Sarah Groen, founder and CEO of Bell & Bly Travel, a luxury travel advisory firm. Bell & Bly Travel helps executives, entrepreneurs, and their families take a holistic view of their vacation planning, allowing them to save time, enjoy amazing experiences they can't plan on their own, and make lasting memories with loved ones. Sarah is a contributing columnist for the CEOWORLD magazine and is the host for the Luxury Travel insider podcast.
In most of our episodes, we talk about work, the grind...2021-04-1530 min
Luxury Travel InsiderRocco Forte Hotels | Owner, Sir Rocco Forte: A Knight's Tale, A Family Affair, and Impeccable Design in the Heart of EuropeNot only today’s guest is the Founder and Chairman of Rocco Forte Hotels, some of my favorite properties in all of Europe, but he’s also been Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II herself! Rocco Forte Hotels are able to achieve the very rare combination between extreme sense of place, luxury service, and amazing design. The company is also family owned and run - with Sir Rocco’s sister doing design, his son selecting locations, and daughters building the vision for bar, culinary, and spa services. When you stop into a Rocco Forte hotel, it might...2021-04-1324 min
Luxury Travel InsiderIndia | Jaisal Singh & Shonali Datta: Sujan Tented Camps, The Elegance of the Tiger, and a Mélange of CulturesToday we’re heading to the magnificent country of India. With a full quarter of the earth’s population living in South Asia - a visit here is a must if you intend to understand the world today. India in particular is a continent unto itself - so different from tip to top that you could spend months here and only scratch the surface. We have two guests today, Shonali Datta - the Managing Director of Banyan Tours and Jaisal Singh - the founder and owner of Sujan - a collection of luxury wilderness camps whic...2021-04-0951 min
Luxury Travel InsiderPortugal | Luis Sousa: The Oldest Borders in Europe, Lunch with a Countess, and Undiscovered DestinationsToday we’re discussing one of my favorite destinations, the country of Portugal. This destination is chock full of so many amazing landscapes, tiny villages, charm, and fantastic food that you almost won’t believe it. Whether you’re shopping local in Lisbon with the cool kids, drinking wine under 2,000 year old olive trees in Alentejo, or noshing on a cheese plate on your private boat in the Algarve - you’ll be appreciating the one thing that makes Portugal so special - the warmth and hospitality of its people. Our guest today is Luis Sousa, a...2021-04-0240 min
Luxury Travel InsiderThe Goring | CEO, Jeremy Goring: On British Royalty, Lady Thatcher's Sense of Humor, And True Hospitality in the Heart of LondonMy guest today is Jeremy Goring, CEO of the famous Goring Hotel in London. While the property is a true five star gem and impeccably English, it is also the only remaining family run luxury hotel in London. Built by Jeremy’s great grandfather, Otto in 1910 - the hotel has played host to every British monarch and every prime minister since. When you stay at the Goring you’ll be pampered with some of the best service in the world, experience one of the largest private gardens in London, and soak up the history with a co...2021-03-3032 min
Luxury Travel InsiderSchloss Elmau | Owner, Dietmar Mueller-Elmau: A Contradiction in Bavaria, Merkel & Obama at the G7, and the Heart of Classical Music in GermanyMy guest today is Dietmar Mueller-Elmau, the third generation owner of famed retreat in southern Germany, Schloss Elmau. The property is set at the foothills of an unimaginably beautiful stretch of the Bavarian Alps, where you can hike, bike, swim, visit castles, and enjoy the spectacular views. Then you can relax in one of the 6 world-class spas and dine in a Michelin star restaurant. But these trappings of typical 5* hotels are not what defines Schloss Elmau. We talk a lot about contradiction in this episode but after reflecting on what Dietmar says, I think the...2021-03-2638 min
Luxury Travel InsiderMorocco | Hicham Alaoui: From Harvard to Tourism, The Ritual of Mint Tea, and the Spirit of the SaharaToday we’re discussing the magical destination of Morocco. Whether the word Morocco conjures up golden images of the Saharan Desert, the smell of scrumptious food, or intricately designed tilework in a breezy riad in Marakesh - you’d be right. But Morocco has so much more to give. The confluence of modern infrastructure and deep historical roots means you can enjoy learning about the world and yourself by making a visit. Our guest today is Hicham Alaoui, a former Google employee and Harvard Business School student, who like me, turned his passion into his busi...2021-03-2339 min
Luxury Travel InsiderColombia | Cristina Consuegra: For Love of Country, "Post-Pablo" Social Innovation, and Pirate TalesToday we’re discussing one of my favorite countries, Colombia, and all the riches it has to offer. While it may have been known previously for it’s dark past, Colombia is quickly being discovered by some of the world’s most discerning travelers. It is too beautiful, too diverse, and too historical to cover in just one episode… but we give it a shot! My guest today is the lovely Cristina Consuegra, Co-owner and founder of Galavanta Travel. She’s a local to the Cartagena region and is just bursting with pride to tell you about her countr...2021-03-1634 min
Tourism Entrepreneur PodcastThe State of Luxury Travel with Sarah Groen of the Luxury Travel Insider PodcastThis is the last episode of the year and the closing topic for this first season is luxury travel. A much coveted niche which according to some observers, has been the hardest hit by the pandemic. Our guest is the founder of Bell & Bly travel, a boutique travel advisory for entrepreneurs & executives. She is also the host of the luxury travel insider podcast and a contributing travel columnist for CEO World Magazine. Sarah Groen is our guest today!
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
[00:37] Sarah’s background and how she started her tourism brand
[03:50] The Luxury Tra...2020-12-0219 min
Wild Business Growth#118: Sarah Groen – Luxury Travel Insider, Founder of Bell + Bly Travel Sarah Groen, the Founder of Bell + Bly Travel, joins the show to share her journey from rolling out Uber Eats in Houston and Phoenix to becoming a top luxury travel advisor. Hear how to dig deep into the minds of your customers, build a network of all-star partners, provide stellar customer service, create unforgettable experiences, and the craziest thing Sarah has ever seen while traveling. Connect with Sarah at BellAndBlyTravel.com, her Luxury Travel Insider podcast, and on Instagram at @SarahGoesGlobal 2020-11-1139 min
Wild Business GrowthSarah Groen – Luxury Travel Insider, Founder of Bell + Bly TravelSarah Groen, the Founder of Bell + Bly Travel, joins the show to share her journey from rolling out Uber Eats in Houston and Phoenix to becoming a top luxury travel advisor. Hear how to dig deep into the minds of your customers, build a network of all-star partners, provide stellar customer service, create unforgettable experiences, and the craziest thing Sarah has ever seen while traveling. Connect with Sarah at BellAndBlyTravel.com, her Luxury Travel Insider podcast, and on Instagram at @SarahGoesGlobal2020-11-1139 min
Luxury Travel InsiderWelcome to Luxury Travel Insider!Introducing Luxury Travel Insider, hosted by Sarah Groen. Each week we'll chat with Icons in luxury travel to bring you insider details on some of the best hotels in the world, most interesting destinations, and top tour guides/conservationists. Our goal is to inspire you to experience the world and understand, at a deeper level, the heart and soul that goes into creating bespoke travel experiences. In this short episode I'll discuss who the podcast is for, reveal some of our amazing future guests, and tell you more about myself too. Enjoy! Looking...2020-09-1103 min