X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.  Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!  

Have you ever dreamt of escaping winter; just lounging in the quiet in a tropical paradise? Wellph.. today we're taking you on a virtual journey to the stunning Grand Mirage Resort and Thalasso Spa in beautiful.. wait for it, Bali! Yes Bali, Indonesia! Earlier this year we had the pleasure of interviewing Fabien, the GM who shared the secrets of this magical destination. With their 24-hour all-inclusive package, everything from dining, drinking to sports & massages is included! #LuxuryTravel #TellMeWhereWeSignUp! #Bali #X8 #ParadiseFound  🍽️🍹💆‍♀️ 

1. Intro and welcome, Fabien! General Manager Grande Mirage Bali, Indonesia

2. How does the Grand Mirage Resort and Thalasso Spa in Bali differentiate itself from other properties in the area?

3. What is the main feature of the resort's package that sets it apart from others?

Why is Bali such a draw for Americans who may feel uncertain about what to do in a new destination?

4. How does the concept of all-inclusive dining and drinking benefit travelers, especially Americans?  [These are all Inclusive packages = 8 restaurants & 4 bars! -Ed]

5. How does the resort cater to families and what activities do they offer?

6. How does the resort serve as a convenient base for exploring the island of Bali?

7. What makes the resort's spa, the Thalasso Spa, unique and why is it a popular attraction?

8. How does the resort accommodate guests who have dietary restrictions or specific food preferences?

9. Some people might not leave the property; what activities and entertainment are available?

10. How does the resort ensure a stress-free experience for its guests?

11. What is the significance of being the first and only resort in Bali to offer 24-hour dining?

12. How does the resort provide the ultimate relaxation experience for travelers seeking wellness and rejuvenation?

13. Great product for carefree travelers. Beautiful concept, congrats!

14. How can people find out more about your property and get in touch? 

Web: https://www.grandmirage.com and @ Grand Mirage Resort Bali on all the Socials

Thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!! You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

Intro and welcome Matthias Sutter, General Manager Shangri-La Tokyo

1. How has Japan's tourism industry recovered since the pandemic?

2. What makes the Shangri-La Tokyo hotel unique and special?

3. How does the Shangri-La Tokyo provide a calming and tranquil atmosphere in the midst of a bustling city?

4. What services does the hotel offer to assist guests with navigating Tokyo and other cities in Japan?

5. How does the Shinkansen (bullet train) contribute to the convenience of traveling in Japan?

6. How does the city of Tokyo maintain a sense of peace and tranquility despite its vibrant energy?

7. On diverse culinary delights, Michelin stars in Tokyo

8. What are some cultural differences that ex-pats & visitors to Japan need to read-up on?

9. How does the Japanese culture emphasize respect? How does this manifest in everyday life at the Shangri-La?

10. Can you describe any unique experiences or attractions in Tokyo that contribute to its appeal as a destination?

11. How can people find out more about your property and get in touch? 

Web: https://www.shangri-la.com/tokyo/shangrila/ and @ shangrilahotels on all the Socials

Thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!! You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:20: Intro and welcome Duarte Correia, GM of the Mandarin Oriental Prague!

01:50: What have you really come to love about Prague?

03:42: ref: The John Lennon Wall project

04:15: Is there a story about how the hotel sits in the town?

04:50: About how the hotel is structured and what remains are visible

06:35: Are there really seven-thousand restaurants!? What is the food scene like?

07:56: For which type of traveler, (or travelers), is your hotel best suited?

09:05: Is beer a big part of the culture in Prague?

10:20: A bit more on beer spa’s?

10:35: Is Prague still a good value for most travelers?

11:24: What makes Prague so special and fun in the Summer time?

12:32: A note on public transportation

13:22: How is Prague post-COVID?

13:44: Prague- A great, comfortable walking city!

14:45: Christmas Markets are back!!

15:26: How can people find out more about your property? 

Web:  https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/prague/mala-strana/stay

Socials:  @MO_PRAGUE on Twitter & INSTA @MandarinOrientalPrague Facebook and @mandarinoriental on YouTube

15:32: Thank you Duarte, and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!! 

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:12: Intro and welcome Mark Stebbings GM at Miraval Arizona 

01:30: What can guests expect upon immersion onto the property at Miraval?

03:50: Getting comfortable with slowing down, putting away the internet, work, etc

04:12: On being aware of the time you spend on Social media, versus down time.

05:13: What activity is most popular at the moment; what are super fun things to do?

07:05: Ref: The Art of Imperfection- Kintsugi

08:10: Let’s talk about solo travel! Is your resort a good place for soloists? 

10:00: How are you equipped for team building, corporate retreats and activities?

11:20: Let’s talk about thoughtful dining and the concept behind the special menu

12:00: What is your favorite activity, even on your day off?

13:15: Which methods are used to understand your guests intentions and goals?

14:50: What are some insider tips, or extra special things to do while you are here?

15:55: On the importance of never over-scheduling

16:38: How can people find out more about your property? Web: https://www.miravalresorts.com/arizona

16:40: Thank you Mark, and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

SHOW LINKS

• Miraval Resorts & Spas
• Web: www.miravalresorts.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/miravalresorts
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/miraval-resort-and-spa/
• Miraval Arizona Social Media
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/miravalarizona
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/miravalarizona

MIRAVAL ARIZONA ON WEB

• Homepage: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona
• About: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/about
• Intention Setting: Setting an intention is at the core of the Miraval philosophy and approach. We want your time with us to be inspiring, enriching and transformative—whatever that means to you. Journeys with Intention are your starting point.
• Journey With Intention Webpage: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/journey-with-intention
• Digital Mindfulness: (aka “Miraval Mode”) We encourage a Digital Device-Free environment
• Miraval Mode Webpage: https://www.miravalresorts.com/about/miraval-mode
• Life in Balance Spa: Our award-winning Life in Balance Spa integrates modalities from Tibet, India, Europe, China and other global cultures.
• Spa Webpage: https://www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/life-in-balance-spa
• Miraval Wellbeing Experiences: Miraval Arizona is a global leader in wellness and is renowned for exclusive mindfulness, and wellbeing experiences.
• Experiences Webpage: https://www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/experiences
• Group Experiences: We help create lasting memories with friends, family or colleagues. With intentionally curated group experiences, we help strengthen bonds and improve communication for any group, whatever their intention.
• Mindful Groups & Retreats Webpage: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/groups-retreats
• Wellness in the Sonoran Sun: This blog shares how Miraval Arizona stands out from our other properties by highlighting distinct experiences and insider tips.
• Miraval Life in Balance Blog post: www.miravalresorts.com/blog/miraval-arizona-wellness-in-the-sonoran-sun

SHOW LINKS

• Miraval Resorts & Spas
• Web: www.miravalresorts.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/miravalresorts
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/miraval-resort-and-spa/
• Miraval Arizona Social Media
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/miravalarizona
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/miravalarizona
• LinkedIn (Careers Page)

MIRAVAL ARIZONA ON WEB

• Homepage: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona
• About: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/about
• Intention Setting: Setting an intention is at the core of the Miraval philosophy and approach. We want your time with us to be inspiring, enriching and transformative—whatever that means to you. Journeys with Intention are your starting point.
• Journey With Intention Webpage: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/journey-with-intention
• Digital Mindfulness: (aka “Miraval Mode”) We encourage a Digital Device-Free environment
• Miraval Mode Webpage: https://www.miravalresorts.com/about/miraval-mode
• Life in Balance Spa: Our award-winning Life in Balance Spa integrates modalities from Tibet, India, Europe, China and other global cultures.
• Spa Webpage: https://www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/life-in-balance-spa
• Miraval Wellbeing Experiences: Miraval Arizona is a global leader in wellness and is renowned for exclusive mindfulness, and wellbeing experiences.
• Experiences Webpage: https://www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/experiences
• Group Experiences: We help create lasting memories with friends, family or colleagues. With intentionally curated group experiences, we help strengthen bonds and improve communication for any group, whatever their intention.
• Mindful Groups & Retreats Webpage: www.miravalresorts.com/arizona/groups-retreats
• Wellness in the Sonoran Sun: This blog shares how Miraval Arizona stands out from our other properties by highlighting distinct experiences and insider tips.
• Miraval Life in Balance Blog post: www.miravalresorts.com/blog/miraval-arizona-wellness-in-the-sonoran-sun

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:25: Intro and welcome Aditya Prasad from the The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi

02:00: We are big fans of any Park Hyatt!

02:20: How are you able to create such a comfortable, high-level environment?

03:25: Everyone gets just what they want; from children to honeymooners!

03:45: Tell us about the new, current Abu Dhabi? What’s it like?

04:20: Ref: https://www.yasisland.com Warner Brothers Studios, Ferrari World, etc

05:50: Ref: F1’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023! 

06:45: Tell us about the hotel; it’s more chill and approachable than some right?

08:00: ref: Golf Course and Restaurants on the island serving various cuisines

08:05: Tell us about family fun?

10:15: What is the best way for a first-time visitor to soak it all up? Ref: The Louvre

10:50: How do you live like a local?

12:20: Saturdays and Sundays in Abu Dhabi are now the weekend days!

13:00: Ref: Mamsha Al Saadiyat promenade and playground 

13:47: How can people find out more about your property? 

Web: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/united-arab-emirates/park-hyatt-abu-dhabi-hotel-and-villas/abuph

14:04: Thank you Aditya, and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

[Editors note:  Original audio file for this podcast revised on March 21, 2023. Please re-download this episode if yours was short] 

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:30: Intro and welcome Vincent Pauchon, GM of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

02:00: A dream a day is what you experience at an extreme luxury hotel.

02:22: How do you manage bringing so many specialties onto the island for your guests?

03:20: Managing a 12 hour time frame

04:06: Tell us about the design of the property! Is it new?

05:05: Four ecological zones. The lagoon, the beach, the jungle and the coastal. 

05:20: About how design is influenced by the natural environmental zones.

06:50: ref: Banyan tree

08:00: Tell us about your typical traveler to the property?

08:50: On recent travel trends

09:45: On the delicate ecosystem of the ocean, and sustainability practices in place.

011:00: On recycling techniques on the island 

11:45: About the partnership with the company ReefScapers and educating guests!

13:35: Without coral, there is NO marine life.

14:22: Is it family friendly too?

15:00: A day in the life of a guest

16:45: types of cuisine available  

17:20: The benefits not having any light pollution

17:14: One trip is never enough!

How can people find out more about your property? 

Web:  https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlexr-the-st-regis-maldives-vommuli-resort/overview/

18:30: Thank you Vincent, and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:30: Intro and welcome Gabriela Ditetova, GM of The Augustine Hotel, Prague

01:50: Tell us a little bit about the history of this hotel that was once a monastery?

03:17: Ref: Molestana gardens

04:22: What’s it like during the holidays?

05:50: It’s not only for a long weekend; tell us what fun things we might find nearby?

07:50: Prague is know for beers, but also beer messages! Tell us about this?

09:15: You are experiencing history from the moment you enter the hotel!

10:38: It seems you really have a lot of mutual support in preserving the history

11:35: You will definitely leave with a story

How can people find out more about your property? 

Web:  https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/prglc-augustine-a-luxury-collection-hotel-prague/overview/

Socials:  @lartisienofficial on INSTA  YouTube  Facebook

11:58: Thank you Gabriella and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:42: Intro and welcome Piero Magrino, GM at Fonteverde Lifestyle & Thermal Retreat

02:33: Where are the natural springs located and what makes your property special?

04:27: Are guests coming only for wine, for fitness, or can wellness include both and more?

06:10: What are the details and specifics of your beautifully unique thermal spa?

07:00: More about all the spa and wellness center offer to guests!

08:45: Elaborating on how Fonteverde really is a full medical spa.

09:30: How long does your average guest stay with you?

10:37: How long of a stay would you recommend for a complete and total program?

11:50: You have a work-to-reside program on your website. Tell us how that works!

13:43: Dogs are welcome! They even have their own thermal pool! Peter’s dog, Waffle is so excited! @petersdogwaffle on INSTA

How can people find out more about your property? 

Web:  https://www.fonteverdespa.com/en/

Socials:  @IHChotels Twitter @fonteverdespa Facebook @fonteverde INSTA  and @italianhospitalitycollecti1934 on YouTube

15:50: Thank you Piero and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

01:15: What are YOU using as your carry on luggage? Tell us in the comments Ref: Nomadic  Thule and of course the Scott_E_Vest

02:10: Intro and welcome Kim Weller, Acting head of Banyan Tree Wellbeing Spa and Gallery at Banyan Tree, Phuket 

02:33: What do you do; why is Phuket so special as compared to the rest of Thailand?

04:20: It’s really a resort within a resort 

05:00: Is the resort right in the middle of a jungle as it appears on a map?

06:20: It really is a massive property! How many rooms do you have?

07:05: What’s a day in your life like at the Well-being hub?

08:20: What’s a typical couple of days like for your guests?

11:38: What series of events brought you to work at this beautiful place?

13:00: On reducing chronic stress and becoming more conscious 

13:30: Americans generally don’t have much travel time. What is the best advice on how to maximize their experience here?

14:00: A few recommendations for better balance in your life

16:00: On breathing, setting intention and visualization 

16:50: All-together now… 

17:40: Peter, is this the most grounding interview we’ve ever given?

18:16: Practicing well-being is different for everyone

How can people find out more about your property? 

Web:  https://www.banyantree.com/banyan-tree-wellbeing-sanctuary

Socials:  @banyantreehotels on Facebook  INSTA  YouTube

15:20: Thank you Kim and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur

Every week, X8 Global Luxury Travel Podcast brings you the most exotic properties in the most luxurious destinations around the world. From Monaco to the Maldives, from Bali to Borneo to Bahrain, if five stars is your minimum, you'll find them all on X8.

00:41: Welcome back to X8; thanks so much for joining us and for subscribing!

00:10: Airfare to Asia is beginning to be reasonable again!

02:10: Intro and welcome Marcel Kloet, GM of the St. Regis, Bali

02:45: Americans dream of vacationing in Bali. What inspires that dream of the Island of the Gods?

04:05: On the journey to Bali and the commitment of travel

04:40: On the service and spirituality of the island

05:40: What are some of the core principals of the St. Regis brand? Ref: St. Regis, NYC

07:18: On their custom butler service team and your travel experience

08:00: Most people didn’t think of Bali as a family-oriented vacation destination; how has that changed?

09:10: About the many classes at the St. Regis for children

10:00: About family excursions and outings

10:40: You can actually swim in the ocean in Nusa Dua

11:15: How can parents spend their day when children are otherwise engaged?

12:00: Do you have sunrise Yoga and Spa appointments?

12:40: What’s the best way to immerse yourself in local culture?

How can people find out more about your property? 

Web: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dpsxr-the-st-regis-bali-resort/overview/ Socials:  Twitter  Facebook  INSTA  

15:20: Thank Marcel and thank you for joining us! We’ll be back the week after next with another new episode, till then~ Stay safe & keep traveling!!

You can find us and more info on the web at www.x8travelpodcast.com or email us at info@explorateurjourneys.com Also on Instagram @theexplorateur and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/theexplorateur