This episode of Travel Agent Takeaways features AmaWaterways reservations consultant Bridget Pawley, who shares insights from her 30-year travel industry career and explains in her experience, what river cruisers, or potential river cruisers, are really looking for.

Bridget discusses the rise of younger and multi-generational travellers, how advisors can identify clients suited to river cruising, and ways to communicate the value of an all-inclusive river cruise experience. 

Bridget also reflects on her own AmaWaterways cruise, highlighting the onboard service, atmosphere, and high levels of repeat business that keep guests returning. 

AmaWaterways Show Notes:
AU Website: amawaterways.com/au
NZ Website: amawaterways.com/nz
Travel Advisor Portal: amawaterways.au/agent-login
Contact: [email protected]
Reservations: [email protected]
AU: 1800 867 126 / NZ: 0800 005 636

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

In this episode of the Travel Agent Takeaways podcast, Charlie chats to Visit Park City's Megan Underwood about what makes the destination a favourite winter escape for Aussies and Kiwis.

Megan highlights Park City’s two major ski resorts, Park City Mountain Resort - the largest ski resort in the United States and part of the Epic Pass network, and Deer Valley Resort - the luxury ski-only resort on the Ikon Pass,that recently doubled in size. 

Megan also explains Park City’s easy access from Salt Lake City, its Olympic legacy and the 2034 Winter Olympics, family-friendly atmosphere, extensive dining scene, shopping, nightlife, and range of off-slope activities including snowmobiling, tubing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides and live sports. 

The episode also covers how long to stay and travel trade resources available through Visit Park City and its Australian representation team. 

Park City Show Notes:
Website: visitparkcity.com
Trade Page: visitparkcity.com/travel-professionals
Megan's Email: [email protected]
Megan's LinkedIn
GTI Tourism Contact: [email protected] 

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie catches up with Simran Mediratta, the local AU/NZ representative for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. 

Sim shares details of Qantas’ new seasonal nonstop service between Sydney and Las Vegas, as well a general destination update.

The discussion highlights how Las Vegas has evolved into a destination for families, couples, luxury travellers and sports fans, with major drawcards including Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix, UFC and the NRL.

Sim also outlines upcoming developments such as the new Hard Rock Las Vegas, the continued expansion of Sphere, and a new hotel from Lisa Vanderpump. 

The episode also includes some practical budgeting tips, top dining options, lesser-known attractions, as well as how to get around including the Las Vegas Monorail and Vegas Loop. 

Las Vegas Show Notes:
Website: visitlasvegas.com
Free Things To Do: visitlasvegas.com/experience/post/free-things-to-do-in-las-vegas
Restaurants & Nightlife: visitlasvegas.com/restaurants-and-nightlife
Travel Trade: visitlasvegas.com/travel-professionals
Local AU/NZ Contact: [email protected]
Sim's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/simran-mediratta-741a77121

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

This episode of Travel Agent Takeaways previews Albatross Tours’ Summer 2027 European touring program with Harry Sargant from Albatross Tours.

Charlie chats with Albatross Tours' National Sales Manager, Harry Sargant, covering the company’s signature way to tour "The Albatross Way", with smaller groups, longer stays, character-filled accommodation and included excursions designed specifically for Australian and New Zealand travellers. 

Harry outlines three new France itineraries, new standalone Greece and Türkiye tours, updates to the Best of British itinerary, and a special St Patrick’s Day departure in Ireland. 

The discussion also covers the typical Albatross guest, early bird savings and loyalty discounts, booking tools and training for travel advisors, and a special Harry-themed incentive giving selected agents the chance to win an exciting prize!

Albatross Tours Show Notes
Website: albatrosstours.com.au / albatrosstours.co.nz
Trade Website: albatrosstours.com.au/travel-trade
Brochures: albatrosstours.com.au/brochures
CATO Touring Academy: cato.travel/touring-academy
Contact: [email protected]
AU Reservations: 1300 135 015
NZ Reservations: 0800 446 232

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats to Lexie from Brand USA about the broad, growing appeal of sports tourism in the United States. Highlighting major events such as the FIFA World Cup, NFL games, and the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics, alongside increasing interest from Australian and New Zealand travellers. 

Learn how these events can anchor or enhance travel itineraries, with tips on planning ahead, securing tickets, and using trusted booking partners. 

The discussion also covers the accessibility of regular season games and the wide variety of experiences available beyond game day, including stadium tours, museums, as well as opportunities to play and participate.

To learn more about sports in the USA, tune into the monthly America the Beautiful Game Webinar Series.

Brand USA Resources
https://linktr.ee/brandusa_aunz
Trade Website: traveltrade.visittheusa.com.au
USA Discovery Program: usadiscoveryprogram.com.au
Lexie's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lexie-miliatis
Contact: Lexie Miliatis, [email protected] 

America the Beautiful Game Webinar Series

FIFA World Cup Destinations
Tuesday 5th May @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

Inside the Kentucky Derby
Tuesday 2nd June @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

Ski, Snow & Sports in Colorado
Tuesday 30th June @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

The Miami Grand Prix
Tuesday 4th August @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

New York's Beating Heart Of Sports
Tuesday 15th September @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

Surfing and more in Hawai’i
Tuesday 13th October @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

The Houston Rodeo
Tuesday 10th November @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

LA's Sports Scene
Tuesday 1st December @ 8:30am & 12pm AEST

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

Jump on board with the growing popularity of small group tours, with Pete Rawley & Ingrid Berthelsen from Evolution Travel Collective. Learn how the sector has expanded beyond its traditional “adventure travel” roots to appeal to a wider and more affluent audience. 

This discussion covers how smaller groups, slower-paced itineraries, and higher comfort levels are attracting new travellers, while also offering practical advice for travel agents on matching clients to the right tours by focusing on travel style, expectations, and desired experiences. 

The conversation also highlights how to position small group tours to independent travellers.

Do you love selling and travelling with small group tours? We'd love to hear from you!

Evolution Travel Collective (ETC)
Website: evolutiontc.com.au
ETC Partners: evolutiontc.com.au/our-partners
ETC Team: evolutiontc.com.au/our-team
Agent Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/evolutiontravelcollective
Ingrid's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ingrid-berthelsen-b34b5487
Pete's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pete-rawley-88909715

CATO Touring Academy: cato.travel/touring-academy

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

In this episode, Charlie is joined by Anna Shannon and Alex Pickering to share candid, on-the-ground insights from their recent trips to the Philippines, California, and Switzerland. 

They discuss what international travel currently feels like, what their contingencies looked like, their upcoming travel plans and how important is it for travel professionals to be sharing their travels. 

As an industry the best thing we can be right now is Calm, Connected and Confident - don't you agree?

Disclaimer: this episode is not giving advice about when, where or how you or your clients should travel. It’s simply sharing some recent first-hand experience and how we approached our own travels.

Episode sponsor: PassportCard Travel Insurance
Website: passportcard.com.au/award-winning-travel-insurance-for-travel-agents/

Find out more about working with PassportCard as a travel agent: https://bit.ly/3QfwARr

Disclaimer: PassportCard Australia Pty Ltd (PassportCard) ABN 76 621 476 220 (AFSL 551 057) is an Underwriting Agency acting under Binder from Guild Insurance Limited (Guild) ABN 55 004 538 863 (AFSL 233 791). Any advice provided by PassportCard in relation to PassportCard products and the PassportCard is general advice only. Please consider the Combined Financial Services Guide & Product Disclosure Statement and the PassportCard Terms and Conditions (available at www.passportcard.com.au) before deciding whether they are suitable for you.

Guests:
Charlie Trevena
Host & Founder of Destination Webinars & Travel Agent Takeaways
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/
[email protected]
destinationwebinars.com.au

Anna Shannon
CEO of Travel Agent Finder & Travel Trade Connect
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annashannon/
[email protected]
travelagentfinder.com.au/
travelagentfinder.com.au/travel-trade-connect

Alex Pickering
Assistant Manager, Phil Hoffmann Travel Hyde Park
Ph: 13 11 00
[email protected]
pht.com.au 

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats with Di Schinella, local representative for Destination Vancouver.

This episode focuses on how Vancouver is preparing to host matches during the FIFA World Cup, and why the city is well suited to such a major global event. 

It outlines where matches will take place, and highlights Vancouver’s appeal, including its compact, walkable layout, strong public transport, and unique setting between ocean and mountains. 

The discussion also details key matches involving Australia and New Zealand, as well as the broader excitement and international attention the tournament will bring.

Beyond the games themselves, the episode explores what visitors can expect from the wider event experience, including fan festivals, local food and culture, and outdoor activities. 

It also provides practical advice for travel advisors.

Resources:
Website: destinationvancouver.com
Travel Trade Website: destinationvancouver.com/travel-trade
Vancouver Specialist Program: destinationvancouver.com/travel-trade/vancouver-specialist-program
Di's email: [email protected]

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

In the Season 4 finale of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie is joined once again by Nathan McLoughlin from Destination Canada. As the very first guest to ever appear on the podcast back in July 2024, Nath’s return brings things full circle for this 38th episode.

Together, Charlie and Nathan look back on everything the Destination Canada team has achieved in 2025, including key trade initiatives, agent engagement, and the continued growth of Canada as a top-tier destination for Aussie travellers. They dive into their shared love of Canada’s magical winter season and offer listeners an exciting sneak peek at what’s coming in 2026.

As Charlie wraps up the year, this episode is a warm thank you to everyone who has tuned in, sent feedback, or joined a live webinar. Travel Agent Takeaways will be back in 2026, but for now, settle in for one last chat filled with insights, inspiration, and some Canadian charm.

Destination Canada Resources:
Join the Canada Specialist Program: canadaspecialist.com.au
Sign the Destination Canada 'Together for Impact' Tourism Pledge
Website: travel.destinationcanada.com
Nathan's email: [email protected]

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/  

Dive into the festive season with European Christmas specialists, Albatross Tours. 

Charlie is joined by National Sales Manager Harry Sargant as part of the launch of their Festive 2026 program.

Albatross Tours has been sharing the magic of Christmas in Europe for 30 years, and with the 2026 season now open for bookings, Harry shares all you need to know for a standout festive selling season.

Discover what makes a Christmas in Europe truly unforgettable.

Albatross Tours' Resources:
Website: albatrosstours.com.au / albatrosstours.co.nz
Trade Website: albatrosstours.com.au/travel-trade
Brochures: albatrosstours.com.au/brochures
Contact: [email protected]
AU Reservations: 1300 135 015
NZ Reservations: 0800 446 232

Thanks so much for listening! 
I love hearing from travel people, so feel free to reach out. 
If you have any requests let me know and I'll try to get them on.
Cheers, Charlie

Connect with Charlie Trevena
Founder & Host | Travel Agent Takeaways & Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/