The Hivemind Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Seville embodies what travelers imagine when they think of ‘classic Spain’—flamenco, tapas, Moorish palaces, and lively plazas. Sam Lister, Founder & CEO at Tailormade, shares why this southern city is both a cultural icon and a versatile base for travel advisors planning Spain. From must-sees like the Cathedral and Alcázar to unique experiences like flamenco jam sessions, tapas in local barrios, and art restoration studios, Sevilla offers something for every client profile. Learn how to structure itineraries, when to avoid the summer heat, and why 4–5 nights in Seville unlock both the city and its rich day-trip options, from Córdoba to Ronda, Cádiz, and jamón farms.

Learn more at: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-essentials-seville

Check out Tailormade, a premier DMC in Portugal & Spain

Liguria may be best known for Cinque Terre, but travel advisor and Italy expert Ashley Emala reveals the western side of this coastal region is an underrated gem. From beaches in San Remo and Alassio to medieval hill towns, Genoa’s grand palazzi, and unique food experiences, Liguria offers a blend of relaxation and discovery. Ashley shares insights on accessibility from other major Italian cities, when to visit, and what types of clients are best suited for this area—whether families, travelers craving vacation vibes, or those seeking a more local Italian experience. Tune in for more about why this region remains more affordable than Italy’s more famous coasts.

Find show notes at: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-essentials-liguria

With hundreds of resorts across Riviera Maya, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Lori Gold joins Whitney to spotlight the hotels that rise above the noise — from adults-only luxury at Atelier Playa Mujeres and Secrets Playa Blanca, to wellness-focused stays like Palmaïa and the immersive all-inclusive experiences at Hotel Xcaret and Impression Isla Mujeres. This conversation unpacks the differences in dining, spas, beaches, and room layouts, giving you clarity on which Riviera Maya hotels are best suited for each type of traveler.

Find links and resources at: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-stay-guide-riviera-maya

Explore More Mexico – Courses, masterclasses, and resources for travel advisors: exploremoremexico.com

Hotels mentioned in this episode:

1. Atelier Playa Mujeres

2. Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres

3. Palmaïa – The House of AïA

4. Hotel Xcaret México

5. Hotel Xcaret Arte

6. Casa de la Playa

7. Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets

In this episode, dive into all things Lake Como with luxury travel advisor Brittany Pigorini of Unfolded Travels and founder of La Dolce Guida. Gain insider knowledge on what to know before planning Lake Como, including the best times to visit, why logistics and hotel selection are critical, and how to set client expectations around activities, dining, and transportation. From alternatives to crowded Bellagio to uncovering authentic villages and unique experiences, this conversation equips travel advisors with practical tips to match clients with the right Lake Como experience and deliver seamless Italy itineraries.

Learn more at: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-essentials-lake-como

The Hivemind Podcast brings together the collective wisdom of travel advisors, supplier partners, and destination experts to make you feel more confident, prepared, and connected. Each episode delivers practical insights you can put to work right away — from understanding which hotels best fit which clients, to breaking down the nuances of a destination, to sharing pro tips that help you save time and streamline your business inside The Hive platform. Think of it as your shortcut to the knowledge that builds trust with clients and helps your business grow.

Few destinations capture travelers’ imaginations like Lake Como—but choosing the right hotel here is far from simple. In this episode, Whitney sits down with travel advisors Sarah Sirzyk and Ciarán Ritter of Exploratory Travel to share firsthand insights from a packed fam trip through Lake Como. From the ultra-private Passalacqua to the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo, plus family-friendly options like Grand Hotel Victoria, they walk through the strengths, trade-offs, and client profiles for seven properties. Whether your clients are splurging on serenity, looking for buzzy energy, or need a classic four-star fit for families, this Stay Guide gives you clarity on how to confidently guide travelers through Lake Como’s diverse hotel scene.

Learn more: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-stay-guide-lake-como

Featured Hotels:

Passalacqua https://www.passalacqua.it/

Grand Hotel Tremezzo https://www.grandhoteltremezzo.com/

Grand Hotel Victoria Menaggio https://www.grandhotelvictoria.it/

Hotel Royal Victoria Varenna https://www.royalvictoria.com/

Vista Palazzo Lago di Como https://vistalagodicomo.com/

Villa Flori https://www.hotelvillaflori.it/

Hotel Metropole Suisse https://www.hotelmetropolesuisse.com/

Placencia, Belize, offers boutique properties that feel worlds apart from the typical Caribbean resort. In this episode, travel advisors Lee Friedman and Sarah Hollander walk through their hands-on insights on four standout hotels — The Ellysian Boutique Hotel, Chabil Mar Villas, Turtle Inn, and Itz’ana Resort & Residences. From condo-style villas built for groups to intimate beachfront hideaways, from properties with full AC to ones more reliant on natural sea breezes, this conversation gives advisors clarity on which clients will thrive at each property — and which details (like AC, sea walls, beach access) to flag ahead of time.

Learn more at: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-stay-guide-belize

Hotels Discussed in this episode:

• The Ellysian Boutique Hotel⁠ https://www.theellysian.com/
• Chabil Mar Villas https://chabilmarvillas.com/
• Turtle Inn https://thecoppolahideaways.com/resort/turtle-inn
• Itz’ana Resort & Residences https://www.itzanabelize.com/

Few islands capture travelers’ imaginations quite like Santorini. Its dramatic caldera views, whitewashed villages, and volcanic history make it one of the most iconic destinations in the world. In this episode, travel expert Seetha Ramathan, owner of Curated Greece, joins to share firsthand insights that help advisors match clients to the right part of the island. From the lively energy of Fira to the romantic seclusion of Imerovigli and the beachside calm of Perissa, Seetha explains how each area suits a different traveler type. She also covers when to visit, how to avoid cruise crowds, and unique experiences that bring Santorini to life beyond the postcard views.

Learn more about The Hivemind Podcast: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast

Learn more about Seetha and Curate Greece: https://www.curatedgreece.com/

Casablanca and Rabat are often treated as quick stopovers—but these cities reveal Morocco’s modern pulse and authentic daily life. In this episode, Hicham Mhammedi Alaoui, Co-Founder of Experience Morocco and The Travel Collection, shares insights to help travel advisors understand how and when to include them in client itineraries. From Casablanca’s modern architecture, art galleries, and standout dining to Rabat’s green spaces, street art, and NGO community, this conversation gives advisors clarity on which travelers will appreciate each city and how to present them as meaningful additions to a Morocco journey.

Learn more: https://www.thehive.travel/podcast-posts/the-essentials-rabat-and-casablanca