First of a new monthly series! Join us on this episode of Just The Facts as RTE-Travel Talk host Ken welcomes special guest Larry Jackson, a seasoned travel expert from Cruise Holidays of Viera, to explore the evolving landscape of premium cruising. In this insightful discussion, Ken and Larry delve into the recent shifts in the cruising industry and whether it's time for travelers to consider indulging in luxury cruises.

The conversation kicks off with reflections on post-COVID disappointments experienced by once-favorite cruise lines, prompting travelers to seek alternatives. Larry sheds light on the solution, highlighting the growing trend of accommodating fewer guests on luxury cruises, fostering a more intimate and exclusive experience.

Dispelling the notion that luxury is always pricey, the duo compares the amenities offered by luxury cruises with their contemporary counterparts, revealing surprising insights into the value proposition.

Drawing on real-world examples, Larry and Ken provide a snapshot comparison of pricing between Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, showcasing the affordability and benefits of luxury cruising, especially with Silversea's new "Essential Fares" offering. They offer sage advice on navigating the choice between contemporary and luxury cruises based on individual preferences and budget considerations.

As the episode draws to a close, Larry shares his contact information for viewers seeking personalized assistance and expert advice in planning their next cruise adventure. Stay tuned for the next segment of Just the Facts, where we'll explore how to choose your travel advisor wisely.

Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion on the allure of luxury cruises – tune in now and embark on a journey of discovery with Just the Facts!

In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, our host sits down with Daniel Hauptfeld, the Marketing Director for Katarina Line, to delve into the world of luxury travel and maritime excellence. Daniel sheds light on his pivotal role and responsibilities within the company, offering insights into the dynamic landscape of Katarina Line.

Discover the essence of Katarina Line, a leading name in the realm of private yacht travel experiences in Croatia. Learn about their diverse portfolio, spanning from captivating land tours to the unparalleled luxury of their six different classes of private yachts and sailing ships. As Daniel unfolds the company's offerings, it becomes evident that Katarina Line is not just a travel company – it's a legacy, deeply rooted in family values and a unique backstory that sets them apart.

Excitingly, Daniel unveils Katarina Line's vision for the future, including their collaboration with the esteemed Hilton brand to introduce the brand-new Keight hotel. This endeavor marks a significant milestone for Katarina Line as they expand their horizons and continue to redefine luxury hospitality.

Moreover, Daniel highlights Katarina Line's unwavering commitment to the community, particularly their heartfelt dedication to supporting children with Down syndrome. Through their initiatives and outreach programs, Katarina Line exemplifies the essence of corporate social responsibility, making a meaningful impact beyond the realm of travel.

Join us as we unravel the layers of excellence that define Katarina Line, from their exceptional services to their profound sense of social responsibility. Embark on a journey of discovery and luxury with Katarina Line – where every experience is crafted with passion and purpose.

Join RTE-Travel Talk Ken as he sits down with the Real Travel Expert, Ann-Marie Gaudet from Cruise Holidays Select, to delve into the enchanting world of AmaWaterways' Europe's Rivers and Castles itinerary. Ann-Marie considers this cruise the perfect choice for first-timers or those seeking an unforgettable one and done river cruise experience.

In this comprehensive review, Ann-Marie provides an insightful overview of AmaWaterways, renowned for offering some of the best river cruises in Europe. The focus then shifts to the mesmerizing Europe’s Rivers & Castles itinerary, which traverses the picturesque Main and Moselle rivers, as well as the captivating Upper Middle Rhine region, renowned for its stunning landscapes and historic castles.

Discover the allure of visiting majestic castles along the route and why AmaWaterways stands out as the top choice for your river cruise adventure. Ann_Marie weighs in with her opinion of where AmaWaterways fits as compared with other leading river cruise lines like Avalon Waterways and Scenic, and highlighting the why these three lines are her go to choice for her clients.

Families and travelers with mobility concerns will find valuable insights on the suitability of this itinerary, ensuring an inclusive experience for all passengers. Learn about the comprehensive inclusions with your fare, including a special mention from Ann-Marie who includes gratuities for her clients, pre and post-stay options, and the delightful Happy Hour onboard.

Don't miss the exclusive opportunity to cruise this spectacular itinerary with Ann-Marie herself, adding an extra layer of personalized service to your journey. And as the discussion draws to a close, Ann-Marie shares her final bits of advice to ensure your river cruise experience exceeds all expectations.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with AmaWaterways' Europe's Rivers and Castles, where every moment promises to be a cherished memory.

Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Barb Chamberlain, a seasoned traveler and representative of Direct Travel, to delve into her recent voyage aboard the newer luxury cruise line, Explora Journeys. In this insightful interview, Barb and Ken cover a range of topics, starting with an overview of what sets Explora Journeys apart in the world of cruising, including details about the exquisite "Explora I" and her luxurious amenities, plus the other ships coming soon

They also explore whether Explora Journeys truly lives up to its reputation with its unique take on the luxury experience, discussing ship statistics, dining options without additional fees, and the background and history of Explora Journeys.

Barb provides valuable insights into the all-inclusive nature of Explora Journeys, shedding light on the various staterooms and names for them such as "terraces" and "residences" available for guests. The conversation then turns to the technological advancements found onboard, as well as the diverse array of activities and excursions offered to passengers, along with pricing details.

For those considering a family vacation, Barb and Ken discuss whether Explora Journeys is a suitable choice and delve into the experience for solo cruisers and the demographic makeup of guests. Additionally, Barb shares some insider tips for booking Explora Journeys, including the availability of complimentary spa services and other onboard extras.

Finally, the interview wraps up with a discussion on reviews of Explora Journeys, offering potential travelers a comprehensive overview of what to expect from this top-tier luxury cruise experience. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, this conversation provides invaluable insights into the world of Explora Journeys.

Welcome on board Silversea. Join Ken as he welcomes more of the crew and management team of the Silver Shadow to RTE-Travel Talk. Manny Ganesan Room Division Manager, Stefan Ambarus Future Cruise Manager, and Ramona Dragu, Customer Relations Manager sit down with Ken to discuss their roles aboard Silverseas' "Silver Shadow".

Why is the Silver Shadow so beloved by guests? The team weigh in with their take on what is it that makes guests return time and again to Silversea. And share their favorite memories of events on board "Silver Shadow".

Join Ken, and guests on this captivating journey and unlock the success secrets of Silversea's "Silver Shadow" - its excellent management team and crew. Whether you're a cruise enthusiast or a traveler seeking the pinnacle of luxury, this video is great behind the scenes look at what it takes to make an unforgettable cruise experience. Don't miss out—hit play now!

Celebrity Cruises Panama Canal & Ship Classes REVIEW. Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera joins Ken live from the Celebrity Beyond for a mini review of Larry's favorite Celebrity Cruise itinerary, an 11 night Southern Caribbean and Partial Panama Canal cruise. Larry details what make this cruise so popular from experiencing a partial transit of the Panama Canal, dipping ones toes in both the Atlantic and Pacific on one cruise and then finding time for a visit to South America and the ABC Islands. All in one cruise. From there Ken and Larry discuss the differences in the two most popular classes of ships Celebrity Cruises have in their fleet. The Solstice Class including Celebrity Solstice, Eclipse, Equinox, Silhouette, and Reflection. And the Edge Class including; Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond, Ascent and coming in 2025 the Xcel.

Larry highlights some of the new features on the Beyond and the Edge Class with a focus on the dining options and how they differ plus a few of his favorite places on board such as the pool and resort deck.

Of particular interest are the classes of suites on board and the Retreat which is Celebrity's ships with in ships concept. Ken asks Larry if it is fair to compare the Retreat to the luxury cruise lines such as Silversea and Regent. Larry gives a brief history lesson on the evolution of suites and suite classes on Celebrity, while also offering his thoughts and those of his guests about Celebrity's balcony innovation the "Infinite Veranda"

Larry and Ken wrap up with a look at the available internet on board todays ships and reminisce about the bad old days of cruise ship internet connectivity . And finally Larry concludes with his praise of Celebrity Cruises being the best value at sea based on his personal experience and the feedback from the thousands of guests he has put on board Celebrity Cruises of the years .

Embark on a voyage with RTE-Travel Talk Host Ken as he takes you on an exclusive tour of Silversea's exquisite cruise ship, the Silver Shadow! 🚢 In this insightful video, Ken delves into the fascinating details about the ship statistics, public areas, dining options, suites, and the ideal guests who make the most of their Silversea experience.

🌟 Ship Statistics:

Get ready to be impressed by the impressive statistics of the Silver Shadow. Ken breaks down the ship's size, capacity, and other key details, giving you a comprehensive overview of what makes this vessel a true marvel on the seas.

🛋️ Public Areas:

Discover the luxurious public areas aboard the Silver Shadow, where elegance meets comfort. Ken explores the stunning lounges, theaters, and recreational spaces that make every moment on this ship a memorable one.

🍽️ Dining Options and Restaurants:

Indulge your taste buds as Ken guides you through the diverse dining options and restaurants available on the Silver Shadow. From gourmet cuisine to casual dining experiences, Silversea ensures that every palate is satisfied.

🛏️ Suites:

Step inside the lap of luxury as Ken unveils the stunning suites on board. Silversea is renowned for its spacious and beautifully appointed accommodations, and Ken provides an insider's look at the suites that redefine the meaning of comfort at sea.

👫 Who is a Good Fit for Silversea:

Ken discusses the type of traveler who is a perfect match for Silversea's refined experience. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or a first-time adventurer, Silversea caters to those who appreciate the finer things in life and seek a personalized, intimate journey.

👥 Type of Guest Found On Board:

Curious about the fellow travelers you'll encounter on the Silver Shadow? Ken shares insights into the diverse and vibrant community that calls Silversea home during their voyages, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared exploration.

Join RTE Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Real Travel Expert Tim Hersh of Cruise Holidays & Tours of Topeka to uncover the top five reasons why river cruising is an unparalleled travel experience.

Tim shares insights into the intimate and scenic experiences that river cruises such as AmaWaterways, Avalon, Uniworld and of course Viking River Cruise offer, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the way.

Discover the allure of cultural exploration as Tim explains how river cruises provide opportunities to delve into diverse cultures, cuisines, and historical landmarks at multiple destinations. Learn about the convenience and accessibility of river cruises, where passengers can unpack just once and effortlessly access key attractions in the heart of cities and towns.

Tim sheds light on the luxury and comfort that river cruise lines prioritize, from lavish cabins to gourmet dining options and onboard amenities. He also discusses the abundance of themed and specialty cruises available, catering to various interests such as wine and culinary experiences, historical tours, and active adventures.

Join RTE-Travel Talk Host Ken as he sits down with Tina Hirr and Jennifer Walters of Cruise and Travel Experts to recount their awe-inspiring voyage to Antarctica aboard the Silver Endeavour with Silversea Cruises! 🚢❄️ In this captivating discussion, Tina and Jennifer share their unforgettable experiences from their expedition cruise, along with an exclusive tour of the Silver Endeavour.

🗺️ Antarctica Expedition Highlights:

Get ready for a journey of a lifetime as Tina and Jennifer recount their immersive adventure in Antarctica. From breathtaking landscapes to encounters with majestic wildlife, they reveal the extraordinary moments that made their expedition truly unforgettable.

🚁 Antarctic Peninsula Exploration:

Step into the heart of Antarctica as Tina and Jennifer describe their exploration of the Antarctic Peninsula. With Zodiac trips and tundra walks during the day, and indulgent champagne and caviar evenings, they experienced the perfect blend of adventure and luxury.

🛫 Flight to Antarctica & Embarkation:

Follow along as Tina and Jennifer detail their journey from Santiago to Punta Arenas, where they boarded a private charter for a scenic flight to King George Island. From there, they were warmly welcomed aboard the Silver Endeavour, marking the beginning of their epic expedition.

🏞️ Expedition on the Antarctic Peninsula:

Experience the magic of Antarctica through Tina and Jennifer's eyes as they recount their days spent exploring the icy coasts and pristine landscapes. From up-close encounters with penguins to breathtaking vistas, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement.

🛳️ Tour of the Silver Endeavour:

Join Tina and Jennifer for an exclusive tour of the Silver Endeavour, Silversea's luxurious expedition ship. From the welcoming atmosphere of the pre-cruise hotel to the comfortable cabins and elegant dining areas, discover why the Silver Endeavour is the ultimate vessel for Antarctic exploration.

🌌 Luxury Expedition Experience:

Delve into the unique combination of luxury and expedition offered by Silversea Cruises. Tina and Jennifer share how Silversea seamlessly blends comfort and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable journey for every guest.

Join our host, Ken, in a captivating conversation with Sheri Clarke, Co-owner of PT Travel, as they unravel the allure of Portugal and the Douro River on this exclusive episode of RTE-Travel Talk.

🇵🇹 Portugal: A "Hot" River Cruise Destination

Discover why Portugal has become the hottest destination for river cruising, attracting travelers with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

🚢 Overview of a Douro River Cruise

Get a comprehensive overview of what makes Douro River cruises a unique and unforgettable experience, from picturesque vineyards to charming villages.

🌊 3 Popular River Cruise Lines for Douro

Explore the highlights of three renowned river cruise lines—AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Viking River Cruises—as Sheri shares insights into each.

👍 What Sheri Likes with AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Viking

Delve into Sheri's personal preferences and discover the unique features that set AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Viking apart.

📅 Best Time of Year to Cruise & Book

Learn the optimal times for Douro River cruising and get tips on when to book to ensure an ideal and memorable experience.

🗺️ Shore Excursion Differences

Explore the variety of shore excursions offered by different cruise lines and find the perfect activities to complement your travel style.

🏃‍♂️ Active Guests

Discover options for active and not so active travelers, as Sheri sheds light on the adventurous side of Douro River cruising.

🌅 Atmosphere Comparison

Compare the onboard atmospheres of AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Viking to find the perfect fit for your cruising preferences.

💼 What Is Included in Each Line's Fare

Break down the inclusions that come with each cruise line, helping you choose the package that suits your needs.

🛒 Why You Should Book Through a Travel Agent vs Direct

Understand the advantages of booking your Douro River cruise through a knowledgeable travel agent for a seamless and stress-free experience.

💲 Price Point Comparison

Get a detailed look at the pricing structures of AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Viking, ensuring you make an informed decision.

🌍 Final Thoughts on Douro

Join Ken and Sheri as they wrap up the discussion with their final thoughts and recommendations on experiencing the Douro River in all its splendor..

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