Travel Agent Takeaways

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

In this episode, Charlie chats with David McMahon, our local representative for San Francisco Travel, North Lake Tahoe & South Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes Tourism and Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism.

Join us on a road trip through Northern California’s most spectacular landscapes. From the cityscapes of San Francisco to the alpine beauty of Lake Tahoe, the mountain magic of Mammoth Lakes, and the gateway to Yosemite in Mariposa County.

Each stop shines differently through the seasons, and this episode will help you understand how to tailor itineraries year-round.

Connect with Northern California:
David's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mcmahon-61035b2a/
David's Email: [email protected]
San Francisco: https://www.sftravel.com/
North Lake Tahoe: https://www.gotahoenorth.com/
South Lake Tahoe: https://visitlaketahoe.com/
Mammoth Lakes: https://www.visitmammoth.com/
Yosemite: https://www.yosemite.com/

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Destination Webinars Library: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library/
Destination Webinars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, we’re setting sail with Windstar Cruises, the leader in small-ship cruising that brings guests closer to the world’s most captivating destinations. From private yacht-style experiences to immersive itineraries and award-winning service, Windstar offers something truly special for travellers who want more than the typical cruise.

Charlie is joined by Windstar Cruises Sales Manager Australia, Shelley Martin, for insider tips to help travel agents sell the Windstar experience. From what makes small-ship cruising different, to key selling points, target markets, and the exciting destinations on Windstar’s horizon.

Connect with Windstar Cruises:
Windstar Cruises Website: https://deals.windstar.com.au/windstar/
Windstar Advisor Hub: https://advisorhub.windstarcruises.com/
Shelley's Email: [email protected] 
Shelley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleytmartin/

Group Bookings:
As well as our regular group savings and Tour Leader credit for every 9 paying passengers, we also have a range of departures with a Tour Leader credit for every 7 paying passengers.

You will find the list of Group Departures for these here.

Call the Windstar Groups Department on 1300 749 097 or email [email protected]

 Agent Rates:
We would love you to experience the Windstar difference, and we offer amazing Travel Advisor Appreciation Fares across selected itineraries and dates.

 Important Updates & Training
Looking for marketing tools, training, current offers or group support?
The Windstar Advisor Hub has it all.

How to Book Windstar
Reservations:
Call 1300 749 875 to speak to one of our dedicated Windstar consultants or by emailing [email protected]

Sales Support:
Please contact the sales support email address for any questions or queries - [email protected]

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Destination Webinars Library: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library/
Destination Webinars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats with Vanessa Wallace, owner of V Travel Network, about travelling in Turkey and the Anzac Day 2026 commemorations. 

Vanessa shares her deep personal connection with Turkey, and explains why the country appeals to so many travellers with its mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery. 

She outlines how V Travel Network partners with Fez Travel to offer small-group tours across Turkey, including unique Anzac Day experiences at Gallipoli. 

The discussion covers who these tours suit, what to expect during the ANZAC commemorations, and practical tips for agents helping clients plan this meaningful journey.

V Travel Network:
V Travel Network Website
Fez Travel Website
Enquiries: [email protected]
AU: 07 34112090 or 1300 884 332 NZ: +64 9801 0014

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Destination Webinars Library: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library/
Destination Webinars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

Will you Answer the Call of Vanuatu?

And did you know, Vanuatu is home to some of the world’s best diving? 

From the famous SS President Coolidge wreck, to pristine reefs teeming with marine life. 

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats with Jess Cory from the Vanuatu Tourism Office about why Vanuatu should be on every diver’s bucket list, how agents can package diving with other adventures, and the trade resources available to help you sell it with ease.

Vanuatu Resources:
Vanuatu Tourism Website: vanuatu.travel/au
Vanuatu Specialist Program: vanuatuspecialists.com
Jess' Email: [email protected]
NZ Contact: Jacquie Carson, [email protected]
Vanuatu Webinar Recording: destinationwebinars.com.au/library/vanuatu-2025/
Recommended dive wholesalers:
Diveplanit Travel: https://www.diveplanit.com/vanuatu
Dive Adventures: https://diveadventures.com.au/country/vanuatu/
Allways Dive: https://allwaysdive.com.au/diving-destinations/vanuatu/

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Destination Webinars Library: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library/
Destination Webinars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

Dreaming of selling California with confidence? 

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie catches up with Eva Huezo from Visit California to uncover the Golden State’s diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and insider tips for showcasing its true value. 

From world-famous icons to authentic local moments, discover how to help your clients experience more of California in every trip. Plus, get a sneak peek into Visit California’s upcoming 6-part Mini Webinar Series launching this November, designed to give agents quick, powerful tools to sell California with ease.

This episode is packed with ideas to help you turn destination knowledge into sales.

Visit California Resources:
California STAR Program
Ultimate Playground itineraries
Visit California Official Visitor's Guide 2025
Visit California, California Road Trips 2025
Visit California Luxury Travel Planning Guide
100 Years of the Mother Road; ROUTE 66
Eva Huezo LinkedIn
Eva's Email: [email protected]

Visit California Mini-Series Coming Soon!
Mini-Series Grand Prize: 

• $1,000 flight credit, courtesy of Visit California
• 2 nights at an oceanfront Huntington Beach resort, courtesy of Huntington Beach – Surf City USA
• Tickets to Universal Studios, courtesy of Universal Studios Hollywood
• 2 nights in Yosemite Madera County, courtesy of Visit Yosemite Madera County
• Touring & wine-tasting experience in Yosemite, courtesy of Visit Yosemite Madera County

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Destination Webinars Library
Destination Webinars Facebook
Destination Webinars LinkedIn

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars

Are you keen to grow your travel industry network?

In this episode, Charlie welcomes back Anna Shannon from Travel Agent Finder to explore the untapped potential of LinkedIn for travel agents - not as a tool for gaining clients, but as a platform for professional visibility, networking, and industry engagement. 

Together, they discuss why LinkedIn stands apart from other social platforms, how agents can strategically optimise their profiles, and what kinds of content help build authority without resorting to sales-heavy posts.

Get practical advice on how to showcase your expertise, make meaningful industry connections, and use LinkedIn as a personal branding tool. 

Charlie & Anna also share top tips on consistent posting, engaging authentically, and overcoming the fear of putting yourself out there. 

The episode wraps with a three-step LinkedIn challenge designed to help agents boost their presence and seize new opportunities.

Let us know how you go?

Connect with Charlie & Anna on LinkedIn:
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/
Anna Shannon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annashannon/

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Destination Webinars Library: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library/
Destination Webinars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinationwebinars
Destination Webinars LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars

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 Podcast & Destination Webinars
Charlie's Email: [email protected]
Charlie Trevena LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena
Destination Webinars' Library: destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library
Destination Webinars' LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/destination-webinars/ 
Destination Webinars' Facebook: facebook.com/destinationwebinars