Our weekly show interviews real travel experts from around the United States and Canada. Check in with us from week to week for travel news, tips, destinations and reviews from some of the top flight travel agents in the country and travel influencers .
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African Safari Adventure | Kenya, Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent
Monday, September 29, 2025 • Duration 27:09
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!
Seabourn vs Viking vs Explora Journeys | Luxury Cruise Line Comparison
Monday, September 22, 2025 • Duration 25:20
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.
Best Cruises For Active People
Monday, September 15, 2025 • Duration 17:19
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
Regent Seven Seas Grandeur Review
Monday, September 1, 2025 • Duration 23:54
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.
Tulip Time Review on AmaWaterways
Sunday, August 31, 2025 • Duration 12:58
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.
American Cruise Lines Review - Why It May Be Best For You
Monday, August 25, 2025 • Duration 23:44
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.
Backroads and VBT Tours | Best Bike Tours
Monday, August 18, 2025 • Duration 23:34
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.
Best Cruise Lines for Foodies
Sunday, August 17, 2025 • Duration 22:35
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.
Oceania Cruises 10 Ten FAQS
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 • Duration 34:01
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 ✔
Comparing Regent. Oceania. and Celebrity Cruise: Which is the Best for Alaska?
Sunday, July 27, 2025 • Duration 20:27
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.
