Know Zone Podcast: Recent Episodes
Classic Vacations
This collection on a variety of travel topics features insights from professionals in the travel world, within Classic Vacations, and throughout the industry.
Tune in as Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations, and Grace McBride, CEO of Lucia—a contractor marketplace for hospitality —delve into travel industry trends, the challenges facing travel industry entrepreneurs, and discuss how the collaboration between Classic Vacations and Lucia can contribute to the support and growth of your travel business.
To get started with Lucia, travel agencies that are registered with Classic Vacations CLICK HERE
If your travel agency is new to Classic, please download and complete the
Agency Registration forms found HERE
Book a Lucia demo
Have a question for Lucia? Email: hello@letslucia.com
Grand Park Kodhipparu, Maldives is a luxurious one-island-one-resort destination located on the North Malé Atoll which is known for its abundant marine life. The resort offers breathtaking overwater villas each with a dedicated lifestyle host for personalized service, fine dining, an award-winning spa, and so much more! Listen in as Kapil Mathur, Director of Sales, shares why his spectacular property is the perfect choice for discerning guests visiting Maldives.
Think you know Hawaii? Listen in as Deaner Snively, Sr. Account Executive, Marriott International, Hawaii shares hisinsider’s perspective on the amazing, unique experiences his properties and thesebeautiful islands have to offer.
France’s iconic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes overlooks the city’s renowned La Croisette and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Listen in as Camille Trenda, Director of Sales North America, shares why her spectacular property is the perfect choice when visiting the French Riviera and the surrounding area.
For more information about this luxury hotel visit classicvacations.com
Listen in as Lynne Chomicz, Classic Vacations’ VP, Groups & New Business Strategy, discusses Classic Vacations’ popular E3 (Elite, Education, Experience.) An event of interactive education, collaboration, and exchange with highly engaged travel professionals that helps build confident and successful business owners.
Listen in as Leticia Del Rosario, Director of Leisure Accounts, gives an overview and update on the Meliá Hotels International brands in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, including the newest, Falcon’s Resort by Meliá, Punta Cana, an elevated all-inclusive “resortainment” experience.
Listen in as Emma Karnes, Business Development Manager, AIC Hotel Group gives an update on all five Hard Rock All-Inclusive Hotels and UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. You’ll learn what makes each property unique, which best suits your client’s needs, and so much more!
Highgate hotels in Hawaii offers amazing services and amenities for all types of travelers. Listen in as Shauna Nakamura, Area Director Leisure and Transient Sales, gives an overview of the outstanding features and exciting recent enhancements at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, and Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows.
In this episode, Classic Vacations’ new CEO, Melissa Krueger, recipient of the 2022 Female Leaders Luminary Award, talks about the challenges of a female leader, what’s trending in travel executive circles, and shares her advice on how to build and advance business during these challenging times.
Winter is coming! Listen in as Tisa Lange, Classic Vacations’ Associate Product Development Manager, gives an overview of our newest product, SKI by Classic.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
In this episode, Business Development Managers, Joseph Barney and Ray Benevides, meet with Pilar Arizmendi Stewart, VP of Sales & Marketing, The Americas, Palladium Hotel Group. Listen in as Pilar shares what makes Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts and TRS Hotels unique in the popular all-inclusive market.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Scottsdale may be known for its luxury resorts, plush spas, and amazing golf, but it’s equally popular for its fun events, variety of outdoor adventures, and immersive experiences. Listen in as Nicole Krekeler, Tourism Sales Manager, Experience Scottsdale, shares insider tips and tells us all about this desert gem that she calls home.
In this episode, Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney, speak with Classic Vacations’ new CEO, Melissa Krueger. Listen in to their fun, personable conversation as Melissa shares everything from her journey in the travel industry and how she balances career and family, to skin care tips.
Music by ItsWarR from Pixabay
Namale Resort & Spa was voted Number 1 Best Resort in the South Pacific by Travel + Leisure. Listen in as Alissa Harrison, Sales & Marketing Manager, tells us about the outstanding features and the exciting recent enhancements to her all-inclusive 5-star boutique property.
Aruba is a Caribbean paradise offering perfect weather, beautiful beaches, culinary delights, luxury accommodations, and friendly people. Listen in as Kim Riddle, Business Development Manager, Aruba Tourism Authority, shares some of the many reasons visitors feel the Aruba Effect on this One Happy Island.
Click here for Aruba Entry Requirements
Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, is a unique hotel located in an ideal location near the Danube River in the heart of Budapest. Listen in as Zsófia Árvay, Director of Sales, shares the exceptional history, and luxurious features of this architectural gem.
Blue Waters Resort & Spa is a stunning beachfront resort known for its laid-back luxury. Listen in as Anna Wells, Sales & Marketing Director, gives an update on her spectacular property and tells us why her resort is perfect for your distinguished clients.
In this episode, Georgia Boosalis, Sales Director for Canaves Oia Resorts, Santorini, offers invaluable insider tips not only about her four stunning properties, but also about the beautiful island of Santorini. You’ll learn what makes each hotel unique, which best suits your clients’ needs, and so much more!
With the largest over-water bungalows in the South Pacific, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers uncompromising luxury. Listen in as Amanda Esposito, Director of Luxury Sales, tells us why her resort is the perfect fit for your discerning clients.
Set on world-famous Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, The Ritz-Carlton Turks & Caicos opened in June, 2021. Listen in as Lindi Halpern, Senior Sales Executive, Travel Industry Sales, Marriott Luxury Resorts Caribbean tells us about the unique features of this luxury resort.
In this episode Classic’s Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney, speak with the delightful Dinorah Tobon Hampshire, Director of Sales USA & Canada, Hoteles Xcaret. Listen as they share the unique experiences offered at the outstanding properties of Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Hotel Xcaret Artes, and the newest offer, La Casa de la Playa.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
We’ve taken highlights from a recent Learning Lounge session, where Classic Vacations’ team members, Lynne Chomicz, Lisa Tenerelli-Escover, and Joelle Apilado speak with our friends from Trip Mate and explain the benefits of Classic's Travel Smart Plan trip protection package options for 2022.
Listen in as Lisa Hollenberg, Director of Sales, Palmaïa, The House of AïA, joins Classic’s Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney and shares the Palmaïa experience. Discover this unique wellness-focused resort and all it offers.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Located in the heart of Monaco, the iconic Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo has elegance, understated refinement, and is the ideal hotel for experiencing supreme luxury and tranquility. Listen in as Jennifer Ponton, Business Development Manager, the Americas, Monte-Carlo SBM - Hotels & Casinos, gives an update on this spectacular property and all that Monte-Carlo and its surrounding area offers.
Listen in as Ruselle Galante, Regional Sales Manager, Halekulani and Halepuna Waikiki, joins Classic’s Strategic Account Managers, Ray Benevides and Joseph Barney and shares the Halekulani and Halepuna Waikiki experience. Discover all that’s new and exciting at her beautiful properties
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
The iconic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes overlooks the city’s renowned La Croisette and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Listen in as Mafoudia Toure, Director of Sales, The Americas, gives a tour of her spectacular property and all that Cannes and its surrounding area offers.
Listen in as Classic’s Strategic Account Managers, Joseph Barney and Ray Benevides speak with Silvio Bion, General Manager of The Brando, located on the island of Tetiaroa, French Polynesia. The Brando is unique in combining the mission of sustainability with a stunning luxury resort. Silvio describes this mission and gives us a sneak peek of The Brando's new Wellness Week program.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Listen in as Francisco Rello, Regional Sales & Marketing Manager, Western USA, Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Margaritaville Brand Ambassador, gives an overview of Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, the recently opened family-friendly resort that features the first Landshark Brewery, JWB Prime Steakhouse, and a wide variety of activities for guests to enjoy during their vacation.
Please review Coronavirus Information - GoDominicanRepublic.com for up-to-date entry protocols, testing and quarantine requirements to visit this beautiful destination.
In this episode, we’ve taken highlights from a recent webinar featuring the newest luxury resort in Riviera Nayarit, Conrad Punta de Mita. Listen in as Liliana Reed, Director of Leisure Sales, Conrad Punta de Mita, shares don’t-miss sites and activities, and tells us why her property is perfect for family and multi-generational travel.
Check out this video about Conrad Punta de Mita
We’ve taken highlights from a recent webinar featuring The Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, Anguilla.
In this episode, Lorine Charles-St. Jules, Director of Sales for the Anguilla Tourist Board, gives an overview of this hidden gem including the addition of new luxury properties, what to see and do, and why it’s the perfect destination for your discerning clients.
For Information on Traveling to Anguilla: Go to www.ivisitanguilla.com
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts offer the finest properties in the most exclusive destinations.
Listen in as Director of Global Sales, Bertha Vargas, explains the Rosewood philosophy and updates us on her exquisite properties. Next, Ayfer Bedir, Director of Sales, Rosewood London, gives a tour of her luxury hotel.
In this Just Go Show episode, SAMs Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney speak with Andrea Saderi, General Manager for Baglioni Resort, Maldives. Listen in as Andrea shares his journey from the island of Sardinia to his current role as General Manager for this luxury resort described as “paradise with Italian grace”.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Listen in as Erin Wigger, Business Development Manager, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, gives an update and shares some great insider tips about her stunning property that offers sunrise and sunset views, a private lagoon, and the only over-water restaurant on Moorea.
For current entry requirements to the Islands of Tahiti visit Air Tahiti and Tahiti Tourisme.
In our 5th “Just Go Show” episode, Classic Vacations Strategic Account Managers Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney speak with Angela Vento, General Manager for Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui. Listen in as Angela shares her incredible story of working through the ranks and taking a risk to move from Atlanta to Hawaii.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Paradisus by Meliá is a stunning collection of beachfront luxury resorts reflecting the natural beauty of their surroundings. Listen in as Tamara Gilbert, Director of Leisure Sales, South West USA gives an update and shares some great insider tips about these amazing properties.
Classic Vacations' hotel status updates with links to current entry requirements can be foundhere
With sage advice and an infectious laugh, Gary C. Sadler, OD tells us about his journey from the beaches of Jamaica as a Sandals Playmaker to his current position as Executive V. P. of Sales & Industry Relations for Unique Vacations, Inc., affiliate of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, a chain of luxury all-inclusive resorts located throughout the Caribbean.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Listen in on highlights from a recent webinar with Jennifer Guevera, Global Director of Sales, West Coast USA & Canada, Kerzner International. Jennifer gives an overview and shares some fun insider tips about her three properties in Dubai; Atlantis, The Palm, One&Only The Palm, and One&Only Royal Mirage. Next, we move on to the Maldives to explore the One&Only Reethi Rah.
Classic Vacations' hotel status updates with links to current entry requirements can be found here
In our third episode of the Just Go Show series, Strategic Account Managers Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney catch up with Cari Abonador-Alexander, Director of Leisure & Wholesale for Park Hyatt St. Kitts and Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Listen in on highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar as Zachary Samuel, Sr. Sales Manager, Pure Grenada, takes us on a tour of one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems.
From beautiful beaches and a plethora of waterfalls, to excellent sailing, diving, and luxury resorts, Grenada offers so much to discover! Zachary will share some great insider tips and the must-see sites on the Spice of the Caribbean.
Click here for entry requirements for Grenada
Classic Vacations' hotel status updates can be found here
On this episode of the Just Go Show series, Strategic Account Managers Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney have a fun conversation with Christina Richardson, Associate Director of Sales, Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, Maui about updates to her property, and life on the Islands.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Listen in on highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar as Classic’s Joanie Maro takes us on a tour of one of the world’s most beautiful islands. We explore all that Santorini has to offer, from hiking and wine tasting, to archaeology and sailing, with a sprinkle of valuable insider tips along the way.
Detailed entry requirements can be found HERE and HERE
Listen in on our first episode of the Just Go Show series where Strategic Account Managers, Colter Fleming and Joseph Barney talk with Jonnie Torres, Director of Sales & Marketing, Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa about updates to her property, and some of her favorite off-the-beaten path places on her home island of Maui.
Music by Wataboi from Pixabay
Listen in on highlights from a Know Zone webinar and take a journey to Saint Lucia, the world’s leading honeymoon destination, with Richard Moss, Senior Sales Manager, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority.
Visit Saint Lucia Tourism for the latest entry requirements.
Listen in on highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar with Pamela Ewing, Director of Tourism, Turks & Caicos Tourist Board where we explored the beautiful islands of Turks and Caicos home to World Travel Awards’ World’s Leading Beach Destination, Grace Bay Beach.
Visit Turks and Caicos Tourism for the latest entry requirements.
Listen in on highlights from a December 2020 Know Zone webinar where we explored the beauty and vibrancy of Jamaica with Sean-Pierre Webster, Business Development Manager for the Jamaica Tourist Board.
Named number 5 among the top 20 hotels in Miami by 2020 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, Nobu Hotel Miami Beach, was featured on a recent Know Zone webinar. Rachael Palumbo, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Worldwide for Nobu Hotels shares an overview of the luxury Nobu brand, and tells us about this stunning property.
Shari Seraphin, Travel Industry Sales Manager for the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas gives an overview of the beautiful island of St. Thomas and treats us to a tour of her newly refreshed luxury resort which is set on 30 acres in the US Virgin Islands.
Click here for updates on travel to the US Virgin Islands
We've taken highlights from a recent Know Zone webinar featuring Vonda Keeler, Manager, Sales & Account Development, USA, Blue Diamond Resorts. Vonda gives an overview of her brand and introduces us to the recently opened ultimate beachfront property, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Cancún, and the first ever all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Adult Scene.
Listen in as Kristin Carlson, Managing Director, Tahiti Tourisme USA, and Gretchen Macknight of Getaways Perfected, tell us about their recent travels to the beautiful Islands of Tahiti amid Covid-19. They share their experiences, give expert advice, and answer questions.
Important: Covid testing is now required for re-entry into the U.S. Click here for up-to-date information
Listen in as Dave Ferran, Classic Vacations' Head of Sales, talks about his recent November 2020 trip to Maui. Dave shares his departure and arrival experience, and what he’s seeing and experiencing as the State of Hawaii reopens for tourism.
Please Note: Hawaii's COVID-19 policy may have changed since the November recording. Hawaii Updates can be found HERE and HERE.
Tune in as Patricia Fagoaga, Leisure Sales Manager, One&Only Palmilla, and One&Only Mandarina shares the unique aspects of the most anticipated new property in Riviera Nayarit, One&Only Mandarina. Come explore with us!
Listen in on a recent Learning Lounge session where Kier Matthews, Classic Vacations’ Director of Sales, was joined by Margie Jordan, Vice President, TRUE Network CCRA, and Courtnie Nichols, Founder and CEO, TravelBash. They discussed the challenges facing black travel advisors in today’s industry and offered practical solutions. We hope you'll listen.
On the last of our 4-part series on Greece we’re welcoming back Ivana Tudic, Sr Product Manager for Classic Vacations. Ivana shares her personal insight and valuable insider tips about Santorini, the island she called home for several years. Come explore with us!
On the fourth of our Grow Your Business series, we’ll listen in on a recent Learning Lounge session with Cindy Novotny, original founder of Master Connection Associates. In this session, Cindy reviews her sales strategies, and focuses in on the importance of relationship building and follow-up skills.
We hope you’ll tune in!
On the third of our 4-part Grow Your Business series, we’ll listen in on a recent Learning Lounge session with Cindy Novotny, original founder of Master Connection Associates. In this session, Cindy offers tips on handling objections.
On the third of our 4-part series on Greece, we’ll get an insider’s look at Mykonos courtesy of Ivana Tudic, Senior Product Development Manager for Classic Vacations who called this island home for 2 years. Come explore with us!
On the second of our 4-part Grow Your Business series, we’ll listen in on a recent Learning Lounge session with Cindy Novotny, original founder of Master Connection Associates. In this session, Cindy offers tips on Consultative Selling & Storytelling.
On the second of our 4-part series on Greece, we’re welcoming back Joanie Maro, Product Development Manager for Classic Vacations. Joanie shares why Crete is a must-see on any Greece itinerary.
On the first of our 4-part “Grow Your Business” podcast series, we’ll listen in on a recent Learning Lounge session with Cindy Novotny, original founder of Master Connection Associates, a company known for producing and creating effective sales strategies.
In this session, Cindy and her team treat us to a master class on prospecting, listening and conversations.
Join Classic’s Product Manager, Joanie Maro, as we discuss why Greece is so special! We also take an in-depth look at how Greece effectively contained the Covid-19 crisis and what factors led to their success. Come explore with us!
On our last episode on Hawaii, listen in as Dave Ferran, Classic Vacations' Head of Sales has a conversation with Highgate Hawaii’s Area Account Manager, Shauna Nakamura regarding how Highgate Hawaii properties such as ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, and Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel are preparing to welcome guests back.
COVID19 Resources: CDC Website
Hawaii Updates can be found HERE and HERE.
On our third episode on Hawaii, listen in as Dave Ferran, Classic Vacations' Head of Sales has a conversation with Libby Child, Director of Leisure Sales, Prince Resorts Hawaii. They talk about the resort’s enhancements, preparation for the return of guests, and what island life is like today.
On our second episode on Hawaii, listen in as Dave Ferran, Classic Vacations' Head of Sales has a conversation with the Director of Sales & Marketing for the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, Jonnie Torres. They talk about the resort’s enhancements, preparation for the return of guests, and what island life is like today.
COVID19 Resources: CDC Website
Hawaii Updates can be found HERE and HERE.
Listen in as Dave Ferran, Classic Vacations' Head of Sales has a conversation with Shannah Milstead, Director, Sales and Marketing, Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. They talk about the resort’s enhancements, preparation for the return of guests, and what island life is like today.
This episode was recorded on May 8th 2020.
COVID19 Resources: CDC Website
Hawaii Updates can be found HERE and HERE.