Welcome back to the Luxury Travelers podcast! I’m your host, Rodney George, and today, we’re thrilled to welcome Steve Spivak, Vice President of Global Sales and Reservations for Tauck, as we celebrate their remarkable 100th anniversary. Tauck has redefined luxury travel with its unique approach, blending personalized experiences, small-group journeys, and seamless logistics. Tauck's commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction is unmatched, from exclusive after-hours access to iconic landmarks to all-inclusive river cruises with spacious accommodations. Join us as Steve shares the inspiring history of this family-led company, insights into their future focus, and his favorite Tauck experience. 

IN THIS EPISODE:   

• [1:20] Steve shares the history of Tauck, celebrating its 100th anniversary
• [4:34] Tauck is a way of traveling
• [7:30] Discussion of destinations under the branded house of Tauck
• [10:04] Steve names the differences between a Tauck river cruise compared to others
• [15:33] Steve discusses Tauck's focus on the future
• [23:15] Steve reveals his favorite experience on Tauck’s ships

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Now celebrating its 100th anniversary, Tauck thrives on a commitment to innovation, guest satisfaction, and family-driven leadership. The fourth generation brings modern perspectives, such as sustainability and technological integration, while preserving the core values established in 1925.
• Tauck emphasizes creating personal and unique experiences, such as exclusive after-hours access to iconic sites and empowering tour directors to customize trips for guests. The approach prioritizes small groups, seamless travel logistics, and all-inclusive pricing for worry-free travel.
• Tauck’s river cruises stand out because they limit guest numbers to ensure spacious accommodations, intimate experiences, and greater immersion in destinations. Every aspect, from fine dining to excursions, is included, making luxury travel accessible and stress-free.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Tauck River Cruises - Website

Steve Spivak - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Steve Spivak is Vice President of Global Sales and Reservations for Tauck. In this role, Spivak leads the worldwide sales effort across all of Tauck’s global markets and oversees the operation of Tauck’s Reservations and Guest Relations departments. 

Before joining Tauck, Steve spent four years with Loews Hotels as Vice President of Global Sales.  Before joining Loews, Steve spent eight years with Starwood Hotels and Resorts in various US sales and marketing leadership positions.

An avid traveler himself, Steve has personally traveled on 20 Tauck Tours and Cruises and especially enjoys exploring the world with his wife, Elizabeth and three kids on Tauck Bridges.

Luxury Travel, Tauck River Cruises, TauckLuxury, Travelers, Avalon Waterways, River Cruising, Luxury Travel, River Cruises, Wine Lover Cruises, Active Discovery, Cultural Experiences, Scenic Views, France, Bordeaux, Rhine, Danube, Christmas Markets, Wine Tasting, Culinary Exploration, Luxury Travel Tips cruises, travel tips, rodney george, luxury travel, luxury vacations

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

Today, we’re diving into luxury travel insights on cruise experiences as Richard Hickey from Avalon Waterways unveils the elevated world of river cruising. Avalon redefines the experience with its relaxed luxury travel style, intimate ships, and exceptional crew, ensuring guests feel like family. From flexible dining to themed cruises like wine lovers and Christmas markets, Avalon offers something for every luxury traveler. Whether exploring the wine regions of Bordeaux or immersing yourself in French culture, their innovative approach promises an unforgettable, indulgent journey.

IN THIS EPISODE: [1:37] Richard outlines the history of Avalon Waterways and awards for River Cruising with suites having beds face the window

[6:07] River Cruise and land excursion opportunities

[8:45] Richard describes the active and discovery cruise

[17:40 Dining and overnight experiences and festive cruise

[23:24] Cruise the rivers for 9 to 22 days

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Avalon Waterways emphasizes guest comfort with innovations like the Panorama Suite’s open-air balcony and bed-facing river views, offering an enhanced experience compared to traditional balcony designs. This also allows for more spacious staterooms and luxurious amenities for luxury travel.

The Avalon Choice program provides guests with diverse excursion options, including classic sightseeing, active experiences (biking and kayaking), and discovery activities (like cooking and painting classes).

These options ensure personalized, enriching experiences without additional charges for most excursions. Avalon offers diverse themed cruises such as wine-lover voyages, history explorations, Christmas market tours, and extended itineraries that span multiple rivers or countries, catering to various traveler preferences and interests.

RESOURCES:

Globus and Cosmos - Website

Richard Hickey - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Richard is a 36-year industry veteran who has held various sales positions with some of the top travel companies. Throughout his career, he has worked in both inside and outside sales roles for NCL, Disney, and Oceania. Additionally, He has  successfully managed both national and key accounts for Club Med, MSC, and Scenic. Currently, I hold the position of Senior Director of Key Accounts with the Globus Family of Brands.

Luxury Traveler, Avalon Waterways, River Cruising, Luxury Travel, River Cruises, Wine Lover Cruises, Active Discovery, Cultural Experiences, Scenic Views, France, Bordeaux, Rhine, Danube, Christmas Markets, Wine Tasting, Culinary Exploration, Rodney George, Travel Tips, travel industry insights, luxury expedition cruises, luxury travel, luxury, travel, adventure, cruise

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

Today, we’re joined by Oscar Dunn, the Vice President of Expedition Cruise Sales at Abercrombie & Kent. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of luxury expedition travel, where Abercrombie & Kent stands out by offering intimate, personalized adventures to some of the most incredible destinations on the planet. From Antarctica's icy waters to the Galapagos' stunning wildlife, Oscar shares how Abercrombie & Kent curates unique, high-end experiences beyond traditional cruises. We’ll explore the magic of small-group explorations, how A&K brings the best of local culture to each journey, and why an expedition with them feels like no other cruise. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:16] Discussion of travel and expeditions worldwide
• [4:41] Oscar explains how Abercrombie and Kent is more than a cruise line
• [7:09] A&K uses the luxury ships from Ponant with the A&K experience
• [13:14] Expeditions to Antarctica, the Drake Passage, the Galapagos, Japan, Bali and Australia
• [17:57] Oscar explains how you can do an expedition in Japan and Italy
• [20:49] A typical day on an expedition cruise
• [27:02] Oscars recommendations for expedition destinations 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Galapagos offers a unique and awe-inspiring expedition wildlife experience on land and underwater. With animals that are unafraid of humans, visitors can encounter rare species up close. Diving in the Galapagos is just as incredible as exploring on land, with experiences like swimming with hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and endemic species you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The destination's untouched beauty and abundant wildlife make it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
• Unlike traditional cruise lines, Abercrombie & Kent is a unique tour operator that offers exclusive, high-end expedition experiences by chartering entire ships. With over 35 years of experience and a world-class expedition team, A&K provides personalized and local experiences through its destination management companies. This allows travel to familiar destinations like Japan or Italy in a whole new way, offering private yacht experiences and custom-designed adventures that showcase the world through the distinctive A&K lens.
• Abercrombie & Kent offers deeply immersive, small-group experiences that allow travelers to engage with local cultures in ways money can't easily buy. In Italy, for example, guests can join culinary expeditions that include visiting local markets with a family matriarch and cooking in her home with authentic ingredients. Experience an in-depth opportunity that brings guests closer to the authentic local lifestyle, showcasing the true essence of the destination.

#cruises

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Oscar Dunn - LinkedIn

Abercrombie & Kent - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Oscar Dunn is a seasoned expedition travel expert with lifelong professional and personal family background in the luxury travel and leisure industry. Over the past 10 years he has led expeditions in many exotic locations around the world including Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, the Arctic and Asia. An avid adventure seeker, Oscar is a scuba dive master and a licensed private pilot.

For the last two years he has been leading the Luxury Expedition cruises sales for Abercrombie & Kent.

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

In this episode, Rodney George is joined by Aashi Vel, the visionary founder and CEO of Traveling Spoon. Aashi and her team are revolutionizing the travel industry by connecting travelers with authentic, in-home culinary experiences worldwide. Unsurprisingly, publications like Forbes have dubbed Traveling Spoon the 'future of culinary tourism – a remarkable achievement. Finally, we'll delve into Aashi's inspiring journey, explore the magic of experiencing a different culture through the lens of its cuisine, and discover how Traveling Spoon is empowering local communities while creating unforgettable memories for travelers. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:36] Aashi described the catalyst for her business
• [5:08] How Traveling Spoon grew to be featured in Forbes Magazine and the experience of dining in someone's home
• [10:54] Aashi describes the expanse of the countries they cover, and she shares experiences from host families and members
• [19:11] Travel advisors and national magazines recommend the Traveling Spoon to clients
• [22:14] Your hosts are the best home cooks around the world

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Traveling Spoon operates in 70+ countries and 230+ cities, connecting travelers with in-home cooking experiences hosted by residents, including many women who are now micro-entrepreneurs
• Traveling Spoon offers unique and memorable travel experiences, fostering lasting connections through in-home dining with locals and providing a more profound cultural immersion than traditional tourism. With top destinations like Japan, Bali, Italy, Mexico, and Greece, Traveling Spoon enables families to create lasting memories by sharing meals and learning culinary traditions within local homes, offering a more authentic and enriching travel experience.
• Traveling Spoon, recognized by Forbes as the "future of culinary tourism," connects travelers with authentic in-home dining experiences worldwide, fostering cultural immersion and empowering local communities and hosts.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Traveling Spoon - Website

Aashi Vel - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Aashi is a food and travel enthusiast who is passionate about creative problem-solving, product innovation, and foraging. An industrial designer and patent holder, Aashi has designed several award-winning products. She is a magna cum laude graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design and received her MBA from UC Berkeley.

#Luxury #rodneyGeorge #Adventure #cruise #traveltips #cruise

In this episode, Rodney is joined by Rachel Woodward, who brings her extensive expertise in luxury and expedition cruising. Together, they dive into some of the most sought-after travel destinations and experiences, from the upcoming solar eclipse in Iceland in 2026 to exploring the remote beauty of Greenland. Rachel also highlights the Galapagos as the perfect introduction to expedition travel, offering shorter voyages and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Tune in as they discuss how Lindblad’s exclusive expeditions are redefining travel, including exciting opportunities for multi-generational family vacations, all while navigating some of the world’s most pristine and awe-inspiring destinations. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:00] Rachel describes their ships and the places in the Arctic they travel
• [6:35] Discussion about the northern lights and seeing the solar eclipse in Iceland in August 2026
• [9:07] See the Galapagos, snorkel with the animals, and visit Antarctica.
• [12:55] Leave for Alaska from the States, not Vancouver, avoiding immigration
•  [17:05] Rachel talks about experiencing the ship from the helm and Greenland becoming a most popular destination
• [21:55] Book your multi-gen family vacations now with dedicated kids' programming

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

•  A unique opportunity for bucket-list for expeditions and travelers is the upcoming solar eclipse in Iceland on August 12, 2026, with exclusive trips aboard the National Geographic Explorer and Endurance. This rare event, combined with the limited number of operators offering such experiences, generates significant interest. 
• Next year, with two new vessels, the company will double its occupancy in the Galapagos, offering shorter, year-round voyages. This is an ideal entry point for expedition travel, especially for North American guests. Flexible trip durations (4, 5, or 7 nights) allow travelers to combine voyages with Machu Picchu land packages, including the iconic Hiram Bingham train, for a unique experience.
• Greenland offers untouched landscapes and rich cultural experiences, making it a unique destination for those who think they've seen it all. While an airport in Nuuk will increase land tourism, the best way to explore its remote beauty is via expedition cruises, with highlights like Ilulissat's icebergs and authentic Inuit community experiences.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Lindblad Expedition - Website

Rachel Woodward - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Rachel Woodward has a strong background in luxury and expedition cruising that supports her role in helping to showcase Lindblad’s unique offerings and leadership within the expedition space to travel advisors. Woodward most recently served as senior director of expedition sales in North America at Silversea Cruises for 10 years and spent nearly eight years in various roles at Crystal Cruises. In her role, she will focus on sharing Lindblad’s pioneering heritage, modern and purpose-built fleet, and industry-leading expertise and field staff.

Expeditions, Rodney George, Travel and Tips, adventure, exploration,

In this episode, Rodney is joined by Ellen McIlvaine, Vice President of the Americas for Ponant Exploration Travel, to discuss the epitome of luxury and exploration. Together, they dive into the world-class innovations of Le Commandant Charcot, Ponant's groundbreaking icebreaker-class vessel, offering unparalleled access to remote regions like the Arctic and the North Pole. Ellen shares insights into the ship's luxurious accommodations and its role as a scientific research platform. She also shares their partnership with Paul Gauguin Tours in the French Polynesia Islands.  Tune in for an inspiring journey that blends luxury, discovery, and adventure. 

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:30] Ellen introduces Le Commandant Charcot, Ponant's world-class, luxury icebreaker vessel redefining exploration.
• [4:55] Discover the incredible destinations and experiences awaiting travelers aboard this groundbreaking ship.
• [13:31] Learn how Le Commandant Charcot is a platform for cutting-edge scientific research with onboard experts.
• [15:27] Explore the ship’s opulent accommodations designed for comfort and sophistication in the most remote regions.
• [19:39] Ellen highlights the partnership with Paul Gauguin Tours, offering unforgettable journeys in French Polynesia.
• [24:32] Get a sneak peek into Ponant’s exciting plans and innovations in luxury exploration travel.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Le Commandant Charcot is the world's first icebreaker-class vessel designed for guest exploration in extreme environments like the Arctic and the geographic North Pole. It operates on electricity and liquefied natural gas, making it environmentally friendly while enabling silent travel to avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Le Commandant Charcot goes beyond traditional boundaries by starting its journey where others turn back, venturing deep into the ice. This approach allows travelers to experience unique wildlife and landscapes in areas previously inaccessible, including the true 90 degrees North at the geographic North Pole.
• Ponant enriches its voyages with themed collections and partnerships, including Smithsonian Journeys and the Explorers Club. It features expert speakers, real explorers, and immersive themes like culinary arts, music, and culture, offering travelers unique learning experiences.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Ellen McIlvaine - LinkedIn

Ponant - Website

Paul Gauguin Cruises - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Ellen McIlvaine leads PONANT and Paul Gauguin Cruises' sales team across the Americas, empowering trade advisors to deliver transformative travel experiences. Ellen has a background in adventure tourism and experience working onboard expedition cruises on all seven continents. She is based in Portland, Oregon.

Step into a new era of polar exploration with PONANT’s revolutionary Le Commandant Charcot. Ellen McIlvaine, Vice President of Sales for the Americas at PONANT, shares how this groundbreaking hybrid-electric luxury icebreaker is redefining adventure travel, enabling guests to venture where few have dreamed possible—all while setting a new standard for sustainability and elegance in the world’s most remote regions.

In today’s episode, Rodney is joined by Bill Hogan, Business Development Manager for Premier Golf. Bill shares insights into the world of luxury golf travel, discussing how Premier Golf curates unforgettable golfing experiences at some of the most prestigious courses worldwide. From exclusive access to major tournaments like the Masters and the Open Championship to unforgettable trips in destinations like Greece, South Africa, and Japan, this episode is packed with valuable information for golf enthusiasts looking to elevate their travels.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:50] Bill explains the services and offerings of Premier Golf.
• [3:52] Bill shares the story of how he started his role.
• [7:12] Bill outlines the process from your initial inquiry to the completion of your golf trip.
• [11:25] Bill highlights emerging golf destinations in Greece.
• [15:46] Bill discusses UK and Northern Ireland golf courses and insights into the Augusta National Golf Club.
• [22:13] Bill discusses the unique experience of combining golf with a safari in South Africa and golfing in Japan and others worldwide. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Premier Golf specializes in creating customized golf packages, tours, and event experiences. Whether it’s attending major tournaments like the Masters or the Open Championship, planning a group trip to play in Ireland, or organizing a dream golf getaway to destinations like Pebble Beach and Napa Valley, Premier Golf handles all the arrangements, offering a seamless, one-stop solution for bucket-list golf trips.
• Greece is emerging as a premier golf destination, highlighted by the stunning Costa Navarino resort. Spanning six miles, it features four world-class golf courses, luxury accommodations like Mandarin Oriental and W, over 40 restaurants, spas, and unique amenities such as an NBA basketball academy. Designed with meticulous attention to service and quality, Costa Navarino rivals the best golf resorts worldwide.
• Premier Golf is an approved vendor for Open Championship tickets and hospitality, offering exclusive packages for the event. For the 2025 Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland—one of the world's top links courses—guests can enjoy a blend of tournament viewing and golf play. Packages typically include playing nearby courses like Portstewart or Ballyliffin, attending tournament rounds, and accessing a dedicated hospitality venue near the clubhouse.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Premier Golf - Website

Bill Hogan - Instagram

Bill Hogan - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Bill Hogan is the Business Development Manager for Premier Golf and has been traveling the world with luxury-minded clients since 1988. He has played golf in nearly 60 countries and has been on over 1000 golf courses. His experience has landed him a spot on GOLF Magazine's World Top 100 ranking panel and also for Platinum Clubs of the World. It's been said he's "been there, played that!"

Today’s episode takes you on an exhilarating journey into the world of expedition travel as Rodney is joined by Karl Kannstadter, VP of Content Strategy – Exploration for Signature Travel Network. Together, they delve into the “luxurification” of adventure travel, where rugged exploration meets refined comfort. Karl provides expert insights into the evolving expedition market, from the dynamic contrasts between the Arctic and Antarctic regions and the impact of climate change to the unique weather conditions travelers can expect in polar destinations. They also explore the exciting future of adventure travel, including the possibilities of space tourism. Whether you dream of polar expeditions or seek a deeper understanding of luxury travel’s transformative potential, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for the modern adventurer.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:40] Karl gives a snapshot of his history of travel
• [3:54] The definition of “luxurification” of adventure travel
• [7:34] The difference between the Artic and the Antarctic and Karl discusses global warming
• [11:35] What weather conditions can you expect in these colder regions
• [18:03] What Karl sees ahead in the expedition market, space travel 
• [22:46] Expeditions into the polar regions

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Luxury travel is shifting from traditional opulence to unique, transformative experiences in extraordinary locations. Whether trekking with gorillas in Rwanda or observing polar bears in Manitoba, true luxury lies in exclusivity and connection to nature. Enhanced infrastructure now blends rugged adventure with refined comfort, catering to travelers seeking meaningful journeys.
• Climate change varies globally, with rapid shifts in the Arctic disrupting ice patterns and polar bears adapting their diets. In contrast, Antarctica's effects are slower, likely due to its vast ice-covered landmass, highlighting diverse regional impacts on ecosystems.
• Antarctic expeditions (November–February) bring milder summer temperatures (28°F–38°F), often warmer than winters in Chicago or Toronto. Weather can include winds, snow, or hail, but adaptable teams ensure safety and comfort. Essential gear, like three-in-one parkas and waterproof boots, keeps travelers warm and dry, making Antarctica’s stunning landscapes accessible.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Karl Kannstadter - LinkedIn

Signature Travel Network - Website

Signature Travel Network - Facebook

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Karl Kannstadter, VP of Content Strategy – Exploration for Signature Travel Network, brings 37 years of experience in the travel industry on land and sea. He has developed itineraries, led trips worldwide, managed a dive lodge in Fiji, and spent three months in Papua New Guinea. Karl's career spans over 90 countries, with expeditions to the North Pole, Antarctica, the Galapagos, Yemen, Uzbekistan, and the Faroe Islands. His most recent role was Senior Director of Global Expedition Sales for Silversea Expeditions.

Welcome to the Luxury Travelers podcast, hosted by Rodney George! In today’s episode, Rodney sits down again with Jesse Terranova, a Business Development Manager with TCS World Travel. Together, they discuss the exclusive and luxurious travel experiences TCS offers, including their reimagined Airbus A321s, redesigned to accommodate just 52 passengers for ultimate comfort and luxury. Jesse shares insights on the meticulously planned around-the-world trips, the exceptional onboard team, and the seamless service that elevates each journey. From a golf journey where everything is taken care of to the personalized educational components, today’s episode offers a glimpse into the world of elite travel with TCS World Travel.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:06] Rodney visits the TCS World Travel’s Airbus 
• [2:40] Jesse compares the TCS Airbus to a commercial A321
• [5:09] Jesse discusses the travel options and the number of staff on board
• [8:18] Jesse describes the golf journey - no heavy lifting on your part
• [11:57] See the world in luxury and what is in store for 2026
• [15:59] The educational component of each journey via iPad
• [17:39] Get your reservation in today while space is available 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• TCS World Travel provides exclusive and luxurious travel and has reimagined private jet travel by redesigning Airbus A321s to accommodate just 52 passengers instead of the typical 240. This transformation offers an opulent, spacious, and comfortable travel experience, ensuring maximum luxury and convenience.
• TCS’s signature around-the-world trips are completed in just 24 days, with carefully planned flights averaging 4.5 to 5 hours per leg and a maximum flight range of nine hours. This ensures a seamless and efficient travel experience, minimizing long-haul fatigue while exploring multiple destinations.
• TCS provides exceptional service with a dedicated onboard team, including three pilots, seven flight attendants, a physician, a chef, a luggage handler, and an expedition team. The staff works to tailor the journey to travelers’ preferences, creating a personalized and stress-free experience.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

TCS World Travel - Website

Jesse Terranova - LinkedIn

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Jesse Terranova 

Jesse Terranova is a Travel & Tourism Designer and 5x Ironman Triathlete with a decade of experience in professional hospitality services, including consulting at the big four, coaching and hosting small group luxury travel experiences around the globe. Today, Jesse is a Business Development Manager with TCS World Travel, the esteemed operator of The Four Seasons Private Jet Expedition Program. Don’t miss the rare opportunity to enter a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience beyond first class aboard our custom 52 lie-flat seat Airbus A321 private jet.

Today’s episode is out of this world… literally! Rodney sits down with Edyta Teper, Vice President of Global Sales at Space Perspective, to dive into space tourism. Edyta shares how Space Perspective’s innovative Spaceship Neptune takes travelers on a gentle, six-hour journey to the edge of space, offering breathtaking views and luxurious amenities. They’ll discuss Edyta’s journey into the industry, the unique aspects and costs of this exclusive adventure, and the excitement surrounding recent test flights, including plans for the first crewed mission with Richard Branson as co-pilot. As always, Rodney reminds us to “Enjoy yourself. It’s later than you think”—a perfect motto for exploring the thrill and wonder of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:28] Edyta describes how they will take travelers to the edge of space
• [6:20] Edyta tells how she became a part of this industry
• [8:32] What are the concerns and options regarding space travel
• [10:45] Costs, availability, deposit structures, and who are the typical explorers
• [14:25] Discussion of the demonstration flight
• [16:50] Richard Branson will be a co-pilot on the first crewed flight
• [18:44] A comparison to 50 years ago in the cruise industry

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Space Perspective’s Spaceship Neptune offers a gentle, six-hour journey to the edge of space in a pressurized capsule carried by a space balloon. With room for eight guests and a captain, the capsule features large windows, Wi-Fi, drinks, and a bathroom with a view. The trip ascends to 100,000 feet in two hours, pauses for two hours, and begins a smooth descent, creating an accessible, breathtaking experience.
• Space Perspective offers a unique space tourism experience, taking passengers to the edge of space in a luxurious capsule for $125,000 per seat or $1,000,000 for a private capsule of eight. With a backlog of over 1,800 reservations, they’re sold out through the first hundred flights, with the subsequent available bookings extending to 2029. 
• Space Perspective recently completed two successful test flights, including the first full-scale flight of the Spaceship Neptune Excelsior. Launched from the Gulf Coast, the capsule reached 100,000 feet before a controlled descent and splashdown, validating key technologies and providing valuable data. These milestones move Space Perspective closer to commercial test flights under FAA regulation.

RESOURCES:

Luxury Travelers - Podcast

Luxe Travel - Website

Luxe Travel - Facebook

Luxe Travel - Instagram

Edyta Teper - LinkedIn

Space Perspective - Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: Edyta Teper 

Edyta Teper, with 30 years of travel industry experience and a strong international background, joined Space Perspective in 2021 and quickly became instrumental in advancing its mission to make space travel more accessible. Her impressive career includes leadership roles at Jetset Tours, Carnival Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruises, Virtuoso, and Virgin Voyages, where she developed key partnerships and led sales teams. At Space Perspective, she has continued to foster crucial industry relationships, making trade a significant part of the company’s growth, including securing an exclusive trade partnership in Japan.