On this episode of Destination on the Left, I talk with Liz Owens, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Vacations by Rail, who joins me to discuss the trends driving interest in rail experiences, such as slow travel, sustainability, and experiential travel. We also discuss the unique focus of Vacations by Rail, from escorted rail travel to independent itineraries and river cruises.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

• Why Vacations by Rail is focusing on multi-country tours to give U.S. consumers more immersive experiences
• The importance of learning from other industries, particularly consumer retail, and introducing consumer concepts into the travel world
• The company’s approach to direct-to-consumer sales through a call center and the significance of loyal travel agents in their sales
• Why off-peak travel provides unique opportunities for more personalized and less crowded experiences
• Exciting experiences coming down the pipeline, including winter tours of Alaska and immersive experiences in Europe

Revolutionizing Rail Travel

Rail travel is more than just a means of transportation; it is an experience that offers travelers a unique perspective of the world. On the podcast, Liz shares why the slow travel movement is gaining traction, with more travelers seeking to immerse themselves fully in their journeys rather than rushing from one destination to the next.

To provide U.S. travelers with truly immersive experiences, Vacations by Rail focuses on multi-country tours that allow people to explore the cultural and natural landscapes of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. These tours are designed to offer more than just a visit to various locations; they aim to create long-lasting memories through well-curated, in-depth experiences.

Promoting Sustainability Through Rail Travel

Sustainability in travel is increasingly important, and rail journeys are inherently more eco-friendly compared to other modes of travel. Liz shares how rail travel supports economic and community sustainability, particularly in small towns and communities along the routes. This sustainable practice not only reduces environmental impacts but also boosts local economies.

Collaboration Opportunities

Collaboration is at the heart of Vacations by Rail’s strategy, especially after its acquisition by Great Rail Journeys in 2019. This partnership has maximized expertise from different markets and fostered a collaborative environment where teams can innovate and share best practices. Liz also discusses the continued importance of networking and building relationships within the travel industry to drive creative change and growth.

Resources:

• Website: https://www.vacationsbyrail.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vacations-by-rail
• Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizowens1/

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