Planning a Mediterranean cruise? Discover expert insights as we compare Regent Seven Seas, Explora Journeys & Celebrity Cruises to help you choose the perfect luxury or premium Med adventure. 🌊 Is the Mediterranean on your cruise bucket list for this year or next? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken sits down with travel expert Christy Fitzharris of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise to compare three of the top cruise lines for exploring the Mediterranean: Regent Seven Seas, Explora Journeys, and Celebrity Cruises. Christy shares why the Mediterranean remains one of the world’s most sought-after cruise destinations and highlights what sets each line apart. From Regent’s seamless all-inclusive luxury, to Explora Journeys’ family-friendly luxury concept, to Celebrity Cruises’ versatile multi-generational appeal with The Retreat, viewers will discover the unique experiences each cruise line offers. We dive into itineraries that go beyond the classic Barcelona–Rome routes, touching ports in Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Tunisia, Greece, Turkey, and even Egypt with an overnight in Alexandria. You’ll learn about inclusions, cabin sizes, onboard experiences, pricing per night, and what travelers should consider when choosing between luxury and premium options. Christy also offers pro tips for multi-generational families, insights into kids’ programs on luxury ships, and her personal highlights sailing with each line—including her daughter’s love of Celebrity’s kids’ club (even more than Disney’s!). Whether you’re planning your first Mediterranean cruise or a return trip seeking new itineraries, this interview provides expert advice to help you find the perfect fit.

Experience Alaska like never before on Seabourn’s luxury small-ship cruise. From glaciers and whales to intimate service and world-class dining, Seabourn Quest offers the ultimate Inside Passage adventure. Join Ken with travel expert Barb Chamberlain and her daughter Stephanie as they share their 7-day journey from Vancouver to Juneau—packed with wildlife encounters, cultural ports, and insider tips for your next Alaska cruise. Perfect for anyone considering Seabourn, luxury cruising, or exploring Alaska in style. Discover why a Seabourn Alaska cruise offers the ultimate way to explore glaciers, whales, and breathtaking scenery—luxury small-ship style with personalized service and unforgettable adventures. Alaska is on so many travelers’ bucket lists—but what makes experiencing it on a luxury small ship like Seabourn truly unforgettable? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and her daughter Stephanie Lemmon to relive their spectacular 7-day Glaciers & Alaska Inside Passage sailing on the Seabourn Quest, from Vancouver to Juneau. Barb and Steph share how Seabourn’s intimate, elegant atmosphere, personalized service, and expedition-style experiences create a completely different Alaska cruise than the large ships can offer. From kayaking and Zodiac adventures to up-close moments with whales, sea otters, eagles, and the Hubbard Glacier, this Seabourn Alaska itinerary was filled with once-in-a-lifetime encounters. The conversation also covers: The luxury of small-ship cruising: spacious suites, fine dining, and a relaxed “country-club casual” vibe that sets Seabourn apart from other Alaska cruise lines. Memorable ports of call: Ketchikan’s Jellyfish Donuts and Creek Street, Sitka’s cultural treasures, Skagway’s White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and Juneau’s float-plane adventure to the Taku Glacier Lodge. Tips for Seabourn travelers: booking specialty dining and excursions early, packing for variable Alaska cruise weather, and making the most of Seabourn’s included extras (like expedition jackets). The joy of mother-daughter cruising and creating lifelong memories together. Whether you’re planning your first Alaska cruise or considering a return on a smaller, luxury line, this review highlights why many travelers rate Seabourn’s Alaska experience a perfect 10/10—a true blend of adventure and luxury

Thinking about upgrading to a premium cruise? We compare Princess Cruises vs. Celebrity Cruises, breaking down the top 10 differences in dining, staterooms, itineraries, inclusions, and more. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk | Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Kathy Schmauss of Cruise Holidays of Viera to compare two of the best premium options at sea: Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. Together, we count down the Top 10 things you need to know when comparing Princess vs. Celebrity, covering: Ship size, style & atmosphere Dining experiences & specialty restaurants Staterooms, suites & solo cabins Entertainment & onboard vibe Itinerary strengths: Princess in Alaska & the British Isles vs. Celebrity in the Med & Greece Technology & loyalty perks Service & crew-to-guest ratios Value inclusions: Princess Plus vs. Celebrity’s Simply More Passenger demographics & family friendliness Kathy also shares her upcoming Princess British Isles group cruise (2027) and her next sailing aboard Celebrity Apex out of Port Canaveral—proof that both lines offer something special for today’s savvy traveler. 👉 Whether you’re considering your first premium cruise or deciding between these two outstanding brands, this episode delivers the insights you need to book with confidence.

Discover the Rocky Mountaineer luxury train! Journey from Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise with stunning Rockies views, GoldLeaf vs SilverLeaf service, gourmet dining & travel tips. Is a luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies on your bucket list? 🚂 In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, host Ken Lawrence sits down with Mindy Baker of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise to review her recent adventure aboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West. Mindy shares everything you need to know about this iconic daylight-only rail journey, including: 🌄 The breathtaking scenery from Vancouver through Kamloops to Banff or Lake Louise. 🚆 The difference between GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf Service – from panoramic dome cars to gourmet dining and outdoor viewing platforms. 🏨 The seamless hotel stays each night, luggage handling, and luxury touches that make the experience stress-free. 👨‍👩‍👧 Who this trip is perfect for – from families and multigenerational travelers to solo adventurers and nature lovers. ♿ Accessibility and comfort features for all travelers. 🧳 Travel tips for booking, the best season to go, and how to combine your Rocky Mountaineer journey with an Alaska cruise for the ultimate bucket-list vacation. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, luxury traveler, or simply dreaming of Canada’s most stunning landscapes, this episode will inspire your next great journey.

Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with travel expert Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and her client Carol, who just returned from this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Together, they share everything you need to know—from Cape Town’s Table Mountain and Robben Island to the wildlife-filled Zambezi Queen river cruise, plus unforgettable stops at Victoria Falls, Johannesburg, and Kruger Park. Highlights include herds of elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras on safari; sunset cruises along the Chobe River; cultural encounters in local townships; and even the option to add a Rwanda gorilla trek extension. Carol explains why this trip was truly life-changing, with AmaWaterways delivering first-class hotels, gourmet food, and seamless travel from start to finish. If Africa is on your bucket list, this episode will inspire you with insider tips, expert advice, and real guest experiences to help you plan your own dream trip.

d America and Princess Cruises are the top choices—and whether a 7-day Alaska cruise or an extended cruise tour with Denali and Fairbanks is the best way to see Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and culture. In this episode of RTE Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Tim Hersh of Cruise Holidays and Tours of Topeka to break down the differences, the costs, and what you can truly expect from each option. A 7-day Alaska cruise with Holland America or Princess Cruises offers breathtaking views of the Inside Passage, iconic ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, and glacier encounters that rival any destination on earth. You unpack once, enjoy life onboard, and take in the scenery from the ship’s perspective. But if you want to immerse yourself deeper into Alaska’s culture, wildlife, and wilderness, a cruise tour is the way to go. Tim explains how extending your journey to Denali, Fairbanks, or even the Yukon adds a completely new dimension—think dome train rides, journey hosts, wilderness excursions, and unique overland adventures. We also cover: When to go for the best experience (and best pricing). Whether you should splurge on a balcony or save with an inside cabin. How costs differ between a cruise and cruise tour. Why Holland America and Princess Cruises are the leaders in Alaska. Insider tips on meals, luggage transfers, and what surprises travelers the most. Bucket list moments like midnight golf in Fairbanks and experiencing 20 hours of daylight in June! If you’ve ever wondered which Alaska option is right for you—or if you’re planning that “once-in-a-lifetime” trip—you won’t want to miss Tim’s expert insights.

Is an African safari on your travel bucket list? Join us on a luxury African safari through Kenya and Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent—featuring game drives in the Maasai Mara, gorilla trekking, hot air balloon rides, and unforgettable wildlife. Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with Christy Fitzharris, African safari specialist and founder of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise.Christy has just returned from an unforgettable 8-day luxury safari in Kenya and Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent—and she’s here to share all the details. From thrilling game drives on the Masai Mara, a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the savannah, and even a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, Christy’s journey brings the magic of Africa to life. Discover the difference between private conservancies and national parks, the unique safari lodges she stayed in, and how Abercrombie & Kent makes the experience seamless. We’ll also explore: ✅ What a typical safari day looks like ✅ Special moments with lions, elephants, and hippos ✅ How close you can really get to the animals ✅ The truth about safari pricing and what’s included ✅ Tips for choosing the best time of year to go If you’ve ever dreamed of Africa—or are planning your own safari adventure—you won’t want to miss this episode!

Looking for the perfect luxury cruise? 🚢✨ In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Laurie Bixler of Cruise & Travel Specialists to compare three of today’s most talked-about luxury cruise lines: Seabourn, Viking Ocean, and Explora Journeys. Laurie has personally sailed with all three, and she shares her insider knowledge on what makes each line truly special — from ship size and suites to dining, service, and itineraries. Whether you’re drawn to Seabourn’s ultra-luxury traditions, Viking’s “thinking person’s cruise,” or Explora’s modern resort-style luxury, this in-depth conversation will help you decide which cruise line best matches your personal style of travel. We’ll cover: 🛳️ Seabourn’s intimate ships & signature touches (like caviar on demand and world-class cruise directors) 🧳 Viking Ocean’s destination-focused itineraries & all-veranda staterooms designed for curious travelers 🌍 Explora Journeys’ fresh approach to luxury cruising with all-suite living and a chic, resort-inspired design 🍷 Dining experiences across the lines — from buffets and freestanding stations to wine pairings and dining under the stars 👩‍✈️ Service, inclusions, and value for your travel dollar, including crew-to-guest ratios and what’s really included ⚓ Itinerary differences: smaller ports, intense destination days, and world cruise opportunities 💡 How to work with a travel expert to choose the right line and maximize your luxury cruise experience If you’ve ever wondered which luxury cruise line is right for you — or if you’re new to the world of luxury cruising and want to know where to start — this episode is a must-watch. You’ll come away with clear comparisons, real traveler experiences, and plenty of tips to make your decision easier.

Are you someone who likes to stay active while you travel? 🚴‍♀️ Whether it’s kayaking the Danube, hiking in Iceland, or snowshoeing at Europe’s Christmas markets—there’s a cruise for that! Join host Ken as he sits down with travel expert Lynne Cox of Cruise and Travel Experts to explore the top cruises for active people in this exciting episode of RTE-Travel Talk. Lynne shares her expert picks for cruise lines and itineraries that combine fitness, adventure, and wellness—without compromising luxury or fun. 🌍 What You'll Discover: Top river cruise lines for active travel: Avalon, AmaWaterways, Tauck, Uniworld Ocean cruise options with wellness & activities: Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Holland America Expedition cruises for next-level adventure: Viking Expeditions, Windstar, Celebrity Flora (Galápagos) Amazing destinations: Alaska, Danube, Iceland, Antarctica, and more! Wellness programs, biking excursions, kayaking, pickleball & healthy dining 🥗 How to cruise with a less-active partner or on a multi-generational family trip 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 🌟 Bonus Highlights: ✅ Lynn’s favorite experiences:  • Snowshoeing with Tauck in Europe  • Hiking & hot springs in Iceland with Windstar ✅ Cruise lines with active AND relaxing options ✅ How to stay fit onboard while still enjoying incredible food ✅ Her bucket-list dream: Antarctica with Viking Expeditions

Thinking about booking a luxury cruise? Discover what it’s like to sail aboard Regent Seven Seas Grandeur — one of the most all-inclusive and elegant ships at sea. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Cruise & Travel Expert Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel to review her recent voyage aboard the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur, one of the newest ships in the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet. From opulent all-suite accommodations and exquisite dining to immersive and well-organized shore excursions, Barb shares her firsthand experience sailing through the eastern Mediterranean on the “Travel Through Time” itinerary — visiting incredible destinations like Istanbul, Santorini, Mykonos, Kusadasi, Montenegro, and Venice. Discover why Regent Seven Seas is considered one of the top all-inclusive cruise lines, with virtually everything included in your fare — from gratuities and beverages to a wide array of included shore excursions. Barb explains why this level of service and inclusivity not only makes for a stress-free vacation, but may also be more cost-effective than many assume when compared to premium lines with lots of add-ons. In this in-depth conversation, you’ll get insider cruise tips on choosing the right Regent itinerary, when and how to book excursions, what to expect onboard the SS Grandeur, and what makes a luxury cruise experience with Regent feel relaxed, welcoming, and never stuffy. Barb also shares her favorite moments onboard, including dining tips (don’t miss Prime 7’s best seats!) and an emotional highlight at Veranda’s panoramic breakfast tables. If you're considering your first luxury cruise or are curious about stepping up from a premium cruise line, this is the video for you. From small ship cruising to personalized service, Regent Seven Seas Cruises might just be your next unforgettable travel adventure.

Experience the magic of spring in Holland with this in-depth Tulip Time River Cruise review featuring AmaWaterways and travel expert Christy Fitzharris. Ready for tulip season in full bloom? 🌷 Join Ken of RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with travel expert Christy Fitzharris, owner of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise, to explore her recent Tulip Time river cruise with AmaWaterways—a spectacular spring voyage she shared with her mom. In this engaging and informative episode, Christy offers a full review of this 7-night roundtrip itinerary from Amsterdam, sailing through some of Europe’s most charming cities, including Kampen, Ghent, Rotterdam, and Antwerp, with a stunning finale at Keukenhof Gardens during peak tulip bloom. You’ll learn: The ideal time to sail during tulip season and why mid-to-late April hits the floral sweet spot 🌸 What it’s like sailing with AmaWaterways, including their award-winning cuisine, attentive crew, and elegant twin-balcony staterooms 🚢 Why this cruise is perfect for mother-daughter trips, multi-generational families, or special interest groups like crafters and knitters 🧶 Unique excursions like visiting a working tulip bulb field, city walking tours, and relaxing beer and food tastings Tips on balcony vs. fixed-window cabins, what to pack for variable spring weather, and how to take advantage of active options like bike tours through Rotterdam and Antwerp 🚲 Onboard extras like heated pools, Easter egg hunts, chocolate bunnies, and top-deck games the whole family can enjoy Christy also shares why a pre- or post-cruise stay in Amsterdam is a must—with bonus ideas like painting your own Delft tile, exploring Dutch history, and visiting world-famous museums. Whether you’re a garden lover, first-time river cruiser, or just dreaming of spring in Europe, this episode is packed with firsthand advice, expert insights, and plenty of tulip-time inspiration.

Discover why American Cruise Lines is the leading choice for all-inclusive U.S. river and coastal cruises, from the Mississippi to New England and beyond. Looking for a cruise that’s close to home but big on experience? In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with Melissa Young, Business Development Director for American Cruise Lines, to dive into everything you need to know about this unique, U.S.-flagged cruise line. Discover what makes American Cruise Lines a standout for small ship cruising—from their exclusive U.S. itineraries and immersive shore excursions to their modern riverboats, nostalgic paddlewheelers, and ultra-comfortable staterooms. Whether you're curious about Mississippi River cruises, New England harbor hopping, or exploring hidden gems like the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, Melissa shares insider tips, guest demographics, dining details (yes, there’s a New England clambake!), and how American Cruise Lines is redefining the all-inclusive cruise experience. ✅ Highlights include: • 50+ itineraries in 35 U.S. states • Luxurious small ships (100–180 guests) • U.S.-built and crewed vessels • Culture-rich excursions and historical storytelling • Accessible experiences for active and mobility-challenged guests • Gourmet cuisine inspired by regional flavors • Easy booking and flexible excursions Perfect for travelers 55+ and anyone who loves history, culture, and a relaxed pace—this is the cruise line that brings America's stories to life.

Ready for a travel experience where the journey is just as breathtaking as the destination? Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with global travel expert Andy Magistrale of Cruise and Travel Specialists to dive into the world of luxury biking adventures. In this episode, Andy shares his insight on two of the best names in active travel—Backroads and VBT (Vermont Bicycling Tours). With 85 countries visited and decades in the industry, Andy reveals how these immersive cycling tours combine fitness, culture, cuisine, and scenic exploration into one unforgettable experience. Whether you're a casual rider or a cycling enthusiast, you'll discover how Backroads and VBT make it easy to explore the world at your own pace—with support every step of the way. 🧭 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Backroads vs. VBT – A breakdown of each company’s unique offerings ✅ Who it's for – From beginners to experienced cyclists, families, solos & women-only groups ✅ What’s included – Accommodations, meals, bikes, expert guides & more ✅ Types of tours – Guided, self-guided, bike & boat, Dolce Tempo (easygoing e-bike trips) ✅ Global destinations – Ride through 50+ countries, including Europe, Asia & North America ✅ Top experiences – Vineyard rides in Portugal, stargazing in Utah, pasta-making in Tuscany ✅ Equipment spotlight – High-end performance bikes and e-bikes with full support vans ✅ Booking tips – When to book, how far out, and how a travel advisor can make it seamless Whether it’s biking the Moselle River in Germany, exploring Spanish Paradors, or cruising the Douro River with Emerald Cruises, Andy paints a vivid picture of how these tours go far beyond just cycling—they're a gateway to immersive, cultural travel.

Looking for the best cruise lines for foodies in 2025? From gourmet dining at sea to hands-on cooking experiences, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who travels with their taste buds in mind! 🍷🍽️🌍 In this mouthwatering episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken is joined by travel expert Lola Vassiliadis of Cruise Holidays of Oakville to reveal the top cruise lines for foodies—from luxury lines like Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas to the new rising star Riverside Luxury Cruises. We cover: 🍤 Oceania’s legendary onboard cuisine (yes, Jacques Pépin is still involved!) 🍷 Wine pairing experiences that rival Michelin-star restaurants 🌿 Culinary shore excursions in places like Italy and France 🛳️ Cooking classes onboard ocean cruise lines 🥖 River vs. ocean cruises for authentic, local flavors ✅ Tips for booking specialty dining before it sells out 💡 Best foodie cruise tips for first-time and seasoned travelers Whether your budget fits luxury or premium, we’ll help you find the right foodie cruise experience for YOU.

Thinking about sailing with Oceania Cruises? Discover why this upper-premium cruise line is a favorite among foodies, solo travelers, and destination seekers — and what makes it the perfect bridge between premium and luxury cruising. In this episode, Ken sits down with travel expert Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and Catherine Cuthbertson, Director of Sales for Oceania Cruises, to reveal what's new and answer the Top 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions about one of the world's most beloved upper-premium cruise lines. 🌟 From the debut of the elegant Allura, to onboard cuisine endorsed by Jacques Pépin, to immersive small-group excursions — this is your all-access guide to sailing with Oceania Cruises. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ What's new with Oceania Cruises (including the Allura) ✅ What "Your World Included" really means ✅ Why Oceania is perfect for foodies & destination seekers ✅ Solo travel options & multi-generational travel ✅ The difference between Oceania and luxury cruise lines ✅ Upcoming once-in-a-lifetime 2026 Solar Eclipse sailing ✅ Unique shore excursions & enrichment programs ✅ Oceania's “Country Club Casual” dress code ✅ Ship sizes & onboard vibe explained 🍽️ Why Travelers Love Oceania: Small ship comfort ✔ No crowded buffets ✔ Top-tier dining with no upcharge ✔ Cook alongside chefs & explore local markets ✔ Baristas, bakeries, libraries, and artist lofts ✔ Genuine service that makes you feel at home ✔

Alaska cruise comparison , Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, and Celebrity go head-to-head—find out which offers the best value and experience! Confused about which premium or luxury cruise line gives you the most bang for your buck? In this eye-opening episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken is joined by travel expert Christy Fitzharris of Wheels Up Travel to take a deep dive into a real-world pricing and value comparison of Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises—all sailing to Alaska in July 2025. You might think Regent, the luxury option, is always the most expensive—but the results may surprise you. Christy walks us through her expert process in helping clients compare not just the sticker price, but the true cost after inclusions, add-ons, excursions, dining, spa access, and more are factored in. She also reveals an exclusive, unpublished fare for Regent that dramatically changes the equation. We’ll look at: ✅ What each cruise line includes (and doesn’t) ✅ Crew-to-guest and space ratios ✅ Cost per square foot of cabin ✅ Value of the "ship within a ship" concept on Celebrity Retreat ✅ Differences in onboard vibe and experience ✅ Kid-friendliness and dress code expectations ✅ The hidden perks of working with a travel advisor If you're debating a luxury or premium cruise, or considering upgrading from mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean or Princess, this episode is your essential guide. Get clarity, avoid decision fatigue, and learn how to make your cruise dollars go farther—whether you're booking solo or with family.

Welcome back to RTE-Travel Talk! In this in-depth episode, Ken sits down with travel expert Mindy Baker of Wheels Up Travel & Cruise to compare two of Europe’s most luxurious river cruise lines: Riverside Luxury Cruises and Tauck River Cruises. Fresh from sailing aboard Riverside Mozart and Tauck’s MS Savor, Mindy offers a unique, firsthand perspective on how these two luxury lines stack up when it comes to service, dining, staterooms, excursions, onboard vibe, and overall value. 🌍 Considering a European river cruise? Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking for something exceptional, this conversation will help you discover which river cruise line best fits your style and preferences. 🍽️ Foodie Focused or All-Inclusive Ease? Mindy breaks down what sets these cruise lines apart—from Riverside's ultra-luxurious butler service and Michelin-level dining to Tauck's seamless, fully curated excursions and multi-generational appeal. She shares personal highlights like an unforgettable Viennese palace dinner with Tauck and Riverside’s signature Vintage Room experience. 🛏️ Accommodation Insights: Get the scoop on stateroom size, style, amenities, and which cruise line offers more space versus more opulence. Mindy compares room layouts, French balconies, and even the all-important bathroom space! 🎶 Onboard Vibe & Entertainment: Discover which line brings more energy and modern touches, and which excels at elegant tradition and cultural immersion. Learn how Riverside’s vibrant public spaces, spa, and indoor pool differ from Tauck’s immersive entertainment and inviting top deck jacuzzi views. 🛳️ Who’s It For? Find out which cruise line Mindy recommends for foodies, cultural explorers, multi-generational families, and travelers who want to be pampered—or left blissfully undisturbed. 🗓️ Booking Tips: Thinking about a spring tulip cruise or Christmas markets sailing? Mindy shares valuable advice on why you should book early and why working with an experienced travel advisor can help you pick the perfect itinerary. 📞 Want to sail with either Tauck or Riverside? Mindy’s your go-to expert. Her contact info and scheduling link are in the description—reach out today to plan your dream cruise.

Explore the world of Atlas Ocean Voyages, where luxury cruises meet thrilling expedition cruises and epicurean cruises. Discover destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic and the Mediterranean on intimate, yacht-style ships. Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talk as he sits down with travel expert Barb Chamberlain of Direct Travel and Anthony Iozzia, Regional Sales Director for Atlas Ocean Voyages, to dive deep into the world of luxury small ship cruising. Discover how Atlas Ocean Voyages redefines the concept of yacht-style expeditions, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and intimate travel experiences. In this episode, you'll learn about Atlas Ocean Voyages' fleet of small, boutique-style ships that take you closer to breathtaking destinations inaccessible to larger vessels. Whether you're dreaming of a life-changing expedition to Antarctica, an Arctic adventure, or a Mediterranean voyage filled with culinary delights, Atlas has a unique journey for you. Anthony shares insider details on what makes Atlas different — from their exceptional crew-to-guest ratio to their immersive Epicurean and cultural expeditions. Barb shares her perspective as a travel expert, explaining why her clients keep coming back to Atlas. We'll also cover the incredible inclusions you can expect onboard, including fine dining, premium beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and more. For those seeking the ultimate bucket-list experience, find out how Atlas makes exploring the polar regions accessible and unforgettable, with options for both traditional Drake Passage crossings and fly-cruise programs. Don't miss this in-depth look at one of the most exciting small ship cruise lines on the market today. If you love luxury, adventure, and personalized service, Atlas Ocean Voyages might just be your perfect cruise experience.

Thinking about a Transatlantic or Transoceanic cruise? Discover why these slow-travel adventures—like repositioning cruises across the Atlantic or Pacific—are becoming the best-kept secret in cruising. In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, host Ken sits down with travel expert Mary Ellsworth of Cruise & Travel Experts to dive deep into the fascinating world of Transatlantic and Transoceanic Cruises. These iconic voyages offer a unique, relaxing, and often surprisingly affordable way to travel between continents—and they’re making a big comeback among seasoned travelers and curious cruisers alike. Mary shares her extensive knowledge and firsthand experience on what makes these cruises so special. From the classic New York to Southampton itinerary aboard Cunard's Queen Mary 2, to more exotic repositioning cruises like Los Angeles to Tokyo, you'll discover a world of possibilities that go far beyond traditional cruising. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape from airports and crowded planes, looking to enjoy sea days packed with enrichment activities, or wanting to visit lesser-known ports, this episode has it all.

The best cruises for seniors? Join Ken and expert Kathy Schmauss as they reveal top cruise lines like Princess, Celebrity, Seabourn, and Oceania—perfect for comfort, ease, and enrichment! In this engaging episode of RTE-Travel Talk, Ken sits down with experienced travel expert Kathy Schmauss of Cruise Holidays of Viera to dive into the best cruise line options for senior travelers. With years of firsthand cruising knowledge and a passion for helping others find the right fit, Kathy offers expert insights into which cruise lines cater best to older adults looking for comfort, enrichment, accessibility, and top-notch service. Together, Ken and Kathy explore why certain cruise lines stand out for seniors, including Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Oceania Cruises. They discuss key considerations like, mobility-friendly ships, relaxed itineraries, enrichment programs, and service levels that make a big difference for mature travelers and why smaller and mid-sized ships can be a better fit for seniors Whether you're newly retired or a lifelong traveler seeking your next great adventure, this episode is packed with real advice from two seasoned cruisers. If you're over 60 and thinking about your next voyage, don’t miss what Ken and Kathy have to say—it might just help you pick the perfect cruise!