Travel Trends with Dan Christian – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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People don’t just want to go somewhere anymore, they want to feel something. That emotional shift is powering the experience economy and changing how we celebrate love, milestones, and meaningful moments. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we sit down with Cody Sudmeier, co founder and CEO of Spur Experiences, to explore why gifting moments is quickly overtaking gifting things and how shared experiences create connection, joy, and memories that last far longer than anything wrapped in a box.

We trace Spur’s origin story back to wedding registries, where modern couples were outgrowing traditional houseware lists and craving something more personal. From there, Cody walks us through what makes experience gifting actually work in real life: instant booking, non expiring vouchers, and simple swaps when plans or preferences change. He also explains the psychology behind why experiences win, with happiness showing up three times over through anticipation, the moment itself, and the memories that follow. From food tours and hot springs to doors off helicopter rides and once in a lifetime access, we explore the categories people love most and how Spur helps match the right experience to the right person.

The conversation moves from consumers to companies, where experience gifting is reshaping employee recognition and retention. Flexible access to concerts and sporting events, wellness essentials like spas and retreats, and annual experience stipends are giving teams rewards they genuinely use and remember long after a bonus is spent. We also dig into the technology making this all easier, including AI powered recommendations, market gap insights, and influencer driven discovery that increasingly guides purchase decisions, especially for younger audiences.

Whether you’re looking for a Valentine’s gift that feels thoughtful and personal, planning a wedding or milestone celebration, or designing a corporate rewards program people truly value, this one’s for you. 

Visit spurexperiences.com to learn more.

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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A country this slender shouldn’t hold so much, yet Chile layers entire worlds end to end: a cosmopolitan capital set against the Andes, a desert where the night sky feels close enough to touch, vast Patagonian parks that safeguard wild silence, and a Pacific island where living tradition matters more than spectacle. In episode nine of our 10-part Travelzoo Best Bets Series, Dan and Travelzoo Senior Editor and co-host Gabe Saglie sit down with Jessica Canelo, Marketing Director at Chile Travel, to map a clear, inspiring path for traveling Chile in 2026. From what to see first and how to move smartly between regions to why community-led sustainability underpins every decision, this conversation brings Chile into focus.

We begin in Santiago, a city in the midst of reinvention. Walkable neighborhoods like Barrio Italia invite long meals and late nights, while the historic funicular to Cerro San Cristóbal delivers sweeping views that seamlessly link city and mountains. From the capital, Chile opens outward with ease. Nearby wine valleys Maipo, Colchagua, Casablanca, and Leyda tell a layered wine story, from benchmark cabernets to crisp coastal whites and the revival of heritage grapes like país and cinsault. Carmenere, once mistaken for merlot, now stands proudly as Chile’s signature, perfectly paired with smoky asados and Pacific seafood.

Then the journey stretches in every direction. Head north to the Atacama Desert, where San Pedro’s oasis culture balances cycling routes, sunrise valleys, geothermal wonders, and stargazing so pristine that observatories like ALMA peer deep into the universe. In rare years, the desert bloom transforms arid landscapes into fields of color. Fly west to Rapa Nui, five hours across open ocean, where the moai stand watch and the Tapati festival keeps cultural identity deeply rooted in everyday life. Travel south to Patagonia, where Torres del Paine’s granite towers rise above turquoise lakes and expanding parklands protect fragile ecosystems, continuing the conservation legacy championed by Chris and Douglas Tompkins.

So why 2026? Expanded airlift from North America brings Chile closer than ever, harvest season offers a vibrant winter escape for northern travelers, and September’s Independence celebrations fill the country with music, food, and open-armed hospitality. With communities guiding tourism and protecting what matters most, Chile invites travelers to slow down, go deeper, and feel more.

Join us next Tuesday for the finale of our 10-part Travelzoo Best Bets Series. Become a member at travelzoo.com to access exclusive offers.

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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Chicago isn’t just back, it’s surging. In episode six of our 10-part Travelzoo Best Bets Series, Dan and Travelzoo Senior Editor and co-host Gabe Saglie sit down with Lisa Nucci of Choose Chicago to map out the experiences and local insights that turn a short visit into a lasting memory.

We explore the South Side’s moment in the spotlight, from the Obama Presidential Center as a powerful new cultural anchor to Hyde Park’s renewed energy, Pullman’s rail legacy, and the DuSable Black History Museum. Then we move through the city’s 77 neighborhoods like a progressive dinner: Argyle’s Southeast Asian flavors, Pilsen and Little Village for tacos and family-run favorites, and the tavern-cut pizza locals swear by. Music lovers get a guide to Chicago’s house roots, the Chosen Few picnic, legendary late nights at the Green Mill and Kingston Mines, and a theater scene that blends Broadway polish with intimate storytelling. When it’s time to slow down, the architecture river cruise offers a fresh way to understand the skyline.

Chicago’s outdoor side shines too, with 26 miles of lakefront beaches, a beautifully designed Riverwalk, cherry blossoms in Jackson Park, and free cultural wins like Pritzker Pavilion concerts and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Rooftops such as Cindy’s and LondonHouse deliver views year-round, paired with a hotel scene that ranges from stylish value to worthy splurges. Add in big-picture momentum—downtown revitalization, airport upgrades, and major new developments—and it’s clear why Chicago earned its place on the 2026 Best Bets list.

Planning a couples escape, multigenerational getaway, or foodie weekend? Lisa shares her perfect Chicago day, from a Green City Market breakfast to jazz late into the night.

New episodes drop every Tuesday, each featuring local experts who bring these Best Bets to life. Become a member at travelzoo.com to access exclusive offers.

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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Listen to the remaining highlights from this year’s Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) in Panama with Part 2 of our special series. This episode showcases ATTA's profound power of connection and the fundamental importance of sustainability in shaping a brighter future for the adventure travel industry.

Packed with powerful stories and insights, this final installment from our Tours & Activities series features an exceptional lineup of industry thought leaders, including:

• Jonathan Coleman, CEO, UnTours 
• Struan Robertson, CEO, SpiceRoads 
• Natalie Gauthier, GM, Great Canadian Trails 
• Hamish Keith, CEO,  EXO Travel Group 
• Justin Wateridge, CEO, Steppes Travel 
• Mariyana Castleberry, Yolo Dream Adventure 
• Christian Valencia, GM, Active Expedition 
• Gabi Stowell, VP, ATTA 

Learn how adventure tourism continues to push boundaries and evolve as a force for good globally.

👉 Listen to Adventure Travel World Summit Highlights: ATTA Part 2 Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

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Did you know there was a global event for Adventure Travel companies? Join us as Dan attends his very first Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) held in Panama and interviews many fascinating people from Iraq to Pakistan and from Influencers to technology leaders that are shaping this massive industry.

This is your front-row seat to the community and connection that ATWS is renowned for since 1990.  This year’s Summit embraced the theme of Connection, highlighting the bonds we share and our collective efforts toward building a sustainable planet and future. It was a particularly special gathering as we celebrated the 20th anniversary of the ATWS.

This episode features insights from an exceptional lineup of industry leaders:

• Eric Segalstad, Gondwana Ecotours
• Kit Bernardi, Travel Journalist and Photographer
• Rich Heller, Miru Adventures
• Douglas Layton, Mesopotami Tour
• Sarah Higgins, World Expeditions
• Raza Akhtar, The Wander
• Ava Zupančič, World Discovery 
• Jason Halberstadt, MyTrip.ai
• Dan Flores, Satisfi Labs

Get ready to be inspired and informed! This episode is packed with valuable insights to understand the ever-evolving landscape of adventure travel.

👉 Listen to Adventure Travel World Summit Highlights: ATTA Part 1 Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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Get ready to immerse yourself in the future of travel! Part 2 of our exclusive series from Arival 360 in San Diego takes you behind the scenes of the dynamic tours and activities sector—a thriving heartbeat of the travel industry.

This episode features insights from an all-star lineup of industry leaders, including:

• Sarah Dines, Chief Commercial Officer, Viator  Lori Timony, Go City 
• Kelsey Tonner, Guest Focus 
• Shradha Bhatia, WithLocals 
• Oliver Merneck Leverne, Secret Food Tours 
• Ryan O'Grady, Fotaflo 
• Alex Grant, Travel Curious 
• Sarah Dines, Chief Commercial Officer, Viator 
• Randy Stancic, The Sky Deck 
• John Maguire, TripAdmit 
• Bruce Rosard. Arival Co-Founder, and Christian Watts 

Why You Should Listen:

Discover the Game-Changers
This isn’t just a casual conversation—it’s a front-row seat to understanding the innovations shaping the future of travel experiences. From the revolutionary use of AI to city-specific offerings designed to wow visitors, this episode captures how technology and creativity are elevating the industry to dazzling new heights.

Guest Obsession Made Real
Learn how the focus on delivering unforgettable guest experiences is redefining what it means to travel. Our experts share actionable insights into crafting moments that stick with travelers long after their trip ends.

Real Stories, Real Inspiration
Hear first-hand from trailblazing entrepreneurs, brilliant minds behind globally-renowned travel brands, and leaders redefining success through partnerships and innovation. This episode is packed with compelling narratives that will ignite your passion for exploration and inspire your own travel aspirations.

Insider Knowledge of Arival 360
San Diego’s Arival 360 conference is more than just an event—it’s a launchpad for groundbreaking ideas in tours and activities. Tune in to experience the pulse of this evolving sector and gain insider access to what’s driving its transformation.
Whether you’re a a professional in the travel space, or just someone who loves staying ahead of industry trends, this episode is for you.

👉 Listen to Live from Arival: Interview Highlights Part 2 Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

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Live from Arival San Diego Part 1 – A Must-Listen for Travel Lovers!

Get ready to immerse yourself in the future of travel! Part 1 of our exclusive series from Arival 360 in San Diego takes you behind the scenes of the dynamic tours and activities sector — aka 'the best of travel'

This episode features insights from an all-star lineup of industry leaders, including:

🥪 Ben Gollan, Founder, A Man and His Sandwich
🗼 Liz Philpot, Founder, EAT SEATTLE LLC
🎈 Oskar Bruening, CTO & CoFounder, Peek.com
☀️ Beth Santos, CEO, Wanderful
🛶 Justin Buzzi, Founder & CEO, Get Up and Scale Podcast and Go Kayaking
🤸‍♀️ Claire Goodill, Director, ClassPass
👻 Lance Zaal, Founder, US Ghost Adventures
🍕 Joe Martin, Founder, UpLevel Tourism
🇨🇦 Janelle Visser & Stephen Joyce, Arival Podcast Hosts

Curious about how a sandwich tour in New York City went virtual during the pandemic or how a ghost tour entrepreneur turned his love for spooky stories into a nationwide adventure?

Join us as we explore the return of experiences over consumer products as highlighted with valuable stats from Douglas Quinby and Tao Tao!

👉 Listen to Live from Arival: Interview Highlights Part 1 Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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Discover the vibrant evolution of UK tourism with Tom Macklin, the visionary Managing Director of Evans Evans, as your guide. From his humble beginnings at a cruise travel agency to leading London's oldest sightseeing company, Tom shares his journey and how Evan Evans has grown since the 1930s. We unravel the rich tapestry of the company’s history, discussing its innovative transformation into a leader of diverse experiences, including day trips, small group tours, and bespoke attraction ticket wholesaling.

Join us as we explore how cutting-edge AI is revolutionizing travel, with new offerings like the ABBA Voyage express coach and personalized tours designed to meet the desires of international tourists. The demand for bespoke experiences is on the rise, and Tom highlights unique tours like private trips to the iconic Silverstone race course.

Look to the future with us as we investigate the role of technology in connecting the hospitality and tour industries. From hotels integrating activity bookings on their websites to the use of QR codes and live translation, tech is enhancing guest experiences like never before. Tom shares his vision on sustainable travel solutions, including the introduction of electric vehicles into tour fleets, and the exciting potential for private and small group experiences. For budding entrepreneurs, Tom offers invaluable advice on carving out unique niches in the industry and how to stand out in a competitive market, ensuring a successful and sustainable future in travel.

👉 Listen to Navigating the Future of UK Tourism: Tours & Activities Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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What if travel could be more than just a series of sights and sounds, but rather a transformative journey that resonates with your passions? Join us as we explore a world of personalized adventures and innovative tourism trends set to redefine your travel experiences by 2025.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and heritage of India with insights from Sanchin and Nidhi, the dynamic duo behind India City Walks. From authentic local experiences across Delhi's streets to India's diverse geography, their innovative approach is revolutionizing how travelers connect with India's rich traditions. Discover the rise of experiential city tours, where food walks and heritage explorations captivate domestic tourists and international visitors alike. Our conversation sheds light on the emerging destinations of Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Rishikesh, emphasizing sustainable tourism and the shift from traditional shopping-focused travel to meaningful, transformative journeys.

As we look to the future, the rebranding of India City Walks promises to expand, offering broader travel adventures across India and Southeast Asia. Our discussion highlights the significance of compliance, transparency, and skill development in enhancing guest interactions. With partnerships that increase visibility and a focus on quality and safety. Tune in to this captivating episode as we uncover the wonders of India and dive into the vibrant experiences crafted by India City Walks. Plus, we have an exclusive treat for our listeners—the first ten listeners to respond will get a chance to explore Delhi or Old Delhi with a guided walk!* Don’t miss out on this special opportunity—listen now to discover how you can be part of this incredible journey.

👉 Listen to Experiential Travel: Showcasing the Magic of India Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

*Must mention Travel Trends when booking. Free tour only.  

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

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What role do Online Travel Agencies play in the future of travel, and how are they poised to revolutionize the industry? We're thrilled to continue the conversation about the evolving OTA landscape with Rob Ransom, the Chief Strategy Officer for Booking Holdings. Rob shares his insider perspective on the transformative journey of Booking Holdings, one of the world's largest online travel agencies, from the pivotal acquisition of Booking.com by Priceline to its strategic rebranding. We'll uncover the company's dual focus on corporate growth and sustainability, and how these priorities shape its role in the world of travel.

In an ever-competitive landscape, OTAs stand as titans of innovation and strategy. You'll gain insights into how Booking.com and Expedia differentiate themselves, particularly in their approach to corporate travel and technology investment. Rob Ransom sheds light on the technological prowess that drives Booking.com’s success, such as its strategic use of SEO, SEM, A-B testing, and the role of AI in enhancing customer experiences. We also explore Booking.com's strategic expansion into the short-term rental market and how it positions itself as a formidable competitor against giants like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Fast forward to the future, and you'll learn about the trends shaping the travel industry as we approach 2025. Rob shares Booking.com’s ambitious plans in the adventure travel sector, aiming to transform a $300 billion market into a $1 trillion opportunity. Discover the company’s commitment to a seamless 'connected trip' experience, and the significant investments in AI and sustainability initiatives. As Asia emerges as a growth frontier, driven by Agoda’s market strategies, we take a closer look at how Booking.com plans to capitalize on this potential. This episode is a must-listen for travel enthusiasts and industry professionals eager to understand the future dynamics of travel and hospitality.

👉 Listen to The Evolving OTA Landscape Part 2 with Booking Holdings Now

🔥 Season 4 Title Sponsors: Stay 22, TravelAI, Propellic and Northern Soul by Landsby

The #1 B2B Travel Podcast Globally. Over 100 Episodes. Listeners in 125 countries. New Episodes Every Weds.

https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/