Travel Agent Takeaways

Are you and your clients Disney fans?

Charlie is joined by Steph from Disney Destinations to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Disneyland Resort. 

They reflect on Disneyland’s rich legacy since its 1955 opening and the emotional connection families from Australia and New Zealand have built with the park over generations. 

Steph shares personal stories, the magic for all ages, and why Disneyland is never a “one and done” experience. She teases a host of 70th anniversary highlights, including new attractions, entertainment, character outfits, and limited-edition merchandise, all running until the US summer of 2026.

Listeners also receive practical tips for travel agents, such as the return of the resident ticket offer, VIP tour options, mobile ordering, and the Lightning Lane multi-pass. 

Steph hints at what’s next—seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas, a new audio-animatronic Walt Disney experience, and more Star Wars activations.

 Packed with passion, nostalgia, and planning advice, this episode is a must for agents and Disney lovers alike.

Disney Destinations Resources
Website: disneytravelagents.com.au
Contact: [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

Email or DM me on LinkedIn anytime:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

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

What's the difference between Hurtigruten and HX?

In this episode, Charlie chats with Amber from HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) to explore what sets this cruise line apart in the growing world of expedition cruising.

Amber explains the brand’s evolution from its Norwegian heritage to becoming its own identity, offering all-inclusive voyages focused on science, sustainability, and transformative travel. 

With destinations spanning over 250 locations in more than 30 countries—including Antarctica, Alaska, Iceland, Greenland, and the Galápagos—HX caters to curious, experience-driven travellers. 

Guests can engage with onboard scientists and educators, participate in citizen science, and explore remote regions in a deeply immersive way.

Amber shares personal highlights from her own voyages to Antarctica and Iceland, describing the emotional impact and remarkable scenery. 

She also touches on HX’s trade support, including training resources, a Melbourne-based reservations team, and a small but passionate Australian sales and marketing crew. 

With hybrid-powered ships, larger vessel benefits for guest experiences, and a legacy dating back to 1896, HX aims to redefine expedition cruising. For Amber, one word sums it all up: remarkable.

HX Resources:
HX Website: https://www.travelhx.com/en-au/
HX Travel agent portal: https://agentportal.travelhx.com/login
For agent bookings, call AU 1300 159 127 or NZ 03 288 2085 

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

Email or DM Charlie on LinkedIn anytime:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

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

Vancouver is not just a gateway, it's a destination in its own right.

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie chats with Di Schinella, local representative for Destination Vancouver, fresh from her most recent 10-day visit to the city. 

Di shares a personal and passionate take on why Vancouver is more than just a pre- or post-cruise stopover. 

From cherry blossoms in spring to buzzing patios in summer and mild winters perfect for exploring the sea wall, Vancouver offers a unique blend of nature, urban energy, and a thriving food scene. 

Di highlights experiences like whale watching, biking through Stanley Park, and sunset dinners by the waterfront, all within easy reach thanks to the city’s walkable layout and compact design.

The conversation also dives into how travel agents can better promote Vancouver, including insights into the city's cruise terminal, its sustainable initiatives, and the rich culinary diversity that now includes Michelin-starred dining. 

Di encourages advisors to take advantage of the Vancouver Specialist Program, which includes access to a Destination Experience Pass and other valuable trade tools. 

Resources:
Website: destinationvancouver.com
Travel Trade Website: www.destinationvancouver.com/travel-trade
Vancouver Specialist Program

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

Email or DM me on LinkedIn anytime:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

Thanks so much for listening, I love hearing feedback from travel agents about these short and sweet training updates, and if you have any requests let me know and I'll try and get them on!

Email or DM me on LinkedIn anytime:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

Cheers, Charlie

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 looking for a reliable, trade-friendly touring partner? Look no further than Albatross Tours.

In this episode, Shelley Poten from Albatross Tours shares a raft of exciting updates, including multiple recent accolades such as back-to-back NTIA Awards, a Women in Travel honour, and a stellar employee satisfaction score. 

She reflects on the importance of having a happy team and strong industry support, particularly from travel agents, which she sees as central to Albatross’ success. 

Shelley also highlights recent appointments to her growing team, featuring seasoned professionals with deep roots in the travel trade, reinforcing the company's commitment to trade partners. 

She reaffirms Albatross’ longstanding appeal: small group sizes, inclusive itineraries with no hidden extras, unique character hotels, and an emphasis on relaxed, immersive travel designed specifically for Australian and New Zealand travellers.

Looking ahead, Shelley announces the launch of Albatross Tours’ 2026 summer program, which includes 93 departures across 26 countries and introduces new destinations in the Balkans and Greece, plus two exclusive luxury itineraries in Italy and Switzerland. 

Shelley also reveals early bird discounts and outlines how easy it is for travel agents to book, with strong sales support and a user-friendly website. With high repeat customer rates and a world-class net promoter score, Shelley positions Albatross Tours as a trusted and innovative operator for both agents and travellers.

Albatross Tours' Resources:

• Website: albatrosstours.com.au / albatrosstours.co.nz
• Trade Website: albatrosstours.com.au/travel-trade
• Contact: [email protected]
• AU Reservations: 1300 135 015
• NZ Reservations: 0800 446 232

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

Email or DM me on LinkedIn anytime:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

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

Do you want to sell Switzerland with ease?

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, Charlie is joined by Sonia Holt, Marketing Manager for Switzerland Tourism in Australia and New Zealand, to delve into what makes Switzerland a compelling destination. 

Sonia highlights Switzerland’s year-round appeal—from spring wildflowers to golden autumn landscapes, magical Christmas markets, and world-class skiing.

She also talks about the country’s unmatched efficiency, safety, and, of course, its exceptional public transport network, including its globally renowned trains. 

Sonia also shares how Swiss experiences like seeing the Matterhorn, visiting the Jungfraujoch, or paragliding in Interlaken make travellers fall in love with the country’s surreal beauty.

Sonia offers practical tips for agents to create unforgettable itineraries, encouraging a blend city stays with scenic rail journeys, mountain excursions, and visits to charming villages. 

To support the trade, Switzerland Tourism offers outstanding resources, including two online training platforms—one covering regional insights and the other focused on public transport—as well as the highly useful switzerland.com, one of the world’s best tourism websites.

References Mentioned in the Show:
Switzerland.com – genuinely one of the best tourism websites in the world (Sonia uses it as a reference tool herself all the time).
Email: [email protected]

Two online training programs:
www.international.switzerlandtravelacademy.ch   (Regions of Switzerland)
www.elearning.travelswitzerland.com  (Trains and public transport)

 Destination Webinars Switzerland Series:

• Switzerland Series: All About Trains
• Switzerland Series: A Panoramic Journey
• Switzerland Series: The Jungfrau Region
• Switzerland Series: Winter & Christmas Markets

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 feedback from travel agents about these short and sweet training updates, and if you have any requests let me know and I'll try and get them on!

Email or DM me on LinkedIn anytime:
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

Cheers, Charlie

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 sell more Southeast Asia tours? 

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, I catch up with Dennis Basham, Managing Director for Exoticca in Australia, to explore the brand’s unique offerings for travel agents in the region.

Dennis highlights Exoticca's background as a B2B-only tour operator focused on making it easy for agents to sell immersive small group and private tours. Founded in Barcelona and launched in Australia in late 2024, Exoticca has gained quick traction thanks to its fully commissionable packages, inclusive airfare options, and fast, user-friendly booking platform. The company supports agents with personalised onboarding, comprehensive training, and a wide range of destination choices, with Southeast Asia proving to be the most popular so far.

Dennis shares details on two top-selling tours: a 13-day journey through China including highlights like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and a bullet train ride; and a 19-day Southeast Asian Odyssey visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Exoticca also caters to more adventurous clients with itineraries in Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, and the 'Stans'. 

All tours offer customisable accommodation levels and built-in flexibility, allowing travellers to enjoy guided experiences in the morning and free time in the afternoons. With a strong focus on agent success and a growing presence in the market, Exoticca is positioning itself as a go-to partner for agents looking to expand their Southeast Asia bookings.

You’ll walk away with ideas, inspiration, and practical tips to help you sell both Exoticca and Southeast Asia.

Send me a message on LinkedIn, and let me know! I’d love to connect and hear your thoughts.

References Mentioned in the Show"
Travel Advisors can register with Exoticca at advisors.exoticca.com/au
We encourage Travel Advisors to join the Exoticca TravelPro AU Facebook Group at www.facebook.com/groups/911860560753783
All enquiries can come to Dennis direct at [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/company/destination-webinars/   

Thanks so much for listening, I love hearing feedback from travel agents about these short and sweet training updates, and if you have any requests let me know and I'll try and get them on!

Email or DM me on LinkedIn anytime:

• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlietrevena/

Cheers, Charlie

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

Planning a USA itinerary for your clients and want to offer something truly unforgettable?

In this episode of Travel Agent Takeaways, I’m joined by the fabulous Lexi Miliatis, Brand USA’s Trade Manager for Australia and New Zealand. With 46 U.S. states under her belt, Lexi shares why she’s so passionate about road trips, and how agents can craft unforgettable self-drive experiences for their clients to coincide the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026.

We talk small-town gems, iconic roadside stops, quirky festivals (including bed races), and how to mix Route 66 into wider U.S. itineraries. Lexi also shares tips for building supplier relationships, planning around niche experiences like vintage cars, and preparing for increased demand.

You’ll walk away with ideas, inspiration, and practical steps to feel more confident selling U.S. road trips, whether it’s a cross-country journey or just a weekend off the beaten path.

Have you planned a U.S. road trip for your clients before, or is it on your list to try?
Send me a message on LinkedIn, and let me know! I’d love to connect and hear your thoughts.

References Mentioned in the Show
Route 66 Centenary in 2026
Brand USA Deep Drive Webinar Series: Episode #1
USA Discovery Program
Road Trip Expo Dates and Registration
Connect with Lexi on LinkedIn

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/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

Want to wow your clients with Japan itineraries they’ve never seen on Instagram?

If you’re looking to send your clients somewhere special in Japan, this episode is packed with unique, firsthand experiences that go far beyond Tokyo and Kyoto. I’m joined by Harriett Bougher from JNTO, Adam Burke from Scenic, and Ruth Bullock from AH Travel Associates, three seasoned travel experts who recently explored regional Japan.

You’ll hear about hidden gems like Takachiho Gorge, a 1760s sake distillery, a luxury ryokan with private onsens, and island-hopping in Setouchi. We talk traditional dance, hands-on experiences like bonsai-making, temple stays, and cruising Japan’s inland sea, and why these regional experiences are perfect for luxury travellers.

You’ll also walk away with practical tips for booking unforgettable itineraries outside the big cities, plus upcoming training dates to help you sell Japan with confidence.

Which part of regional Japan would you love to explore: the hot springs, the food, or the quiet beauty of the countryside?

Let me know your answer and connect with me on LinkedIn, I’d love to hear what inspired you from this episode.

References Mentioned in the Show:

• Yamamura Sake Distillery, Takamori
• Takamori Spring Water Tunnel Park
• Yufuin no Mori scenic train
• Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Garden
• Setouchi region (including Shodoshima and Naoshima islands)
• Roka Ryokan, Naoshima
• JNTO
• JNTO Webinars (First: 19 June – Japan 101)
• JNTO B2B newsletter for agent updates
• JNTO Roadshows:
  • 26 August – Melbourne
  • 25 August – Sydney
  • 28 August – Auckland

Connect with Harriet, Adam and Ruth:

• Harriet Bowger on LinkedIn
• Adam Burke on LinkedIn
• Ruth Bullock on LinkedIn

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/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

Want simple ways to make your job as a travel advisor easier, without spending hours hunting for answers?

If so, this chat is for you.

In this episode, I catch up with with Kate Webster, new owner of Travel Monitor and a passionate advocate for helping travel agents like you. 

Kate shares how her brand-new Agent Masterclass articles are designed to support agents at every stage of their careers, from newbies to seasoned pros. You’ll hear how she chooses her topics based on real agent questions and what’s trending in the industry (including AI and travel tech coming soon!).

Kate also shares practical tips on how you can get involved in Travel Monitor, whether it’s learning from the Masterclass, writing your own review, or building stronger connections with tourism boards to help grow your business and land those dream famils.

Tune in for fresh ideas, tips you can use right away, and ways to stay connected and visible in the travel trade world.

I’d love to know, what’s your favourite takeaway from this episode? 

Connect with me on LinkedIn, to chat about travel and share ideas!

References Mentioned in the Show:
Travel Monitor website
Subscribe to access daily EDM and Agent Masterclass articles

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/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

Don't you love that feeling of getting on the plane?

In this final episode of season two, I’m joined by Janis McDonald, Sales Manager for Air Canada, to share her insider tips and expert advice on making the most of Air Canada’s onboard experience and seamless connections.

We discuss a bit of destination inspiration, including some of Janis’ bucket list favourites such as Churchill’s polar bears, Quebec’s magical Ice Hotel and the Northern Lights in the Northwest Territories. Plus, you'll get her expert insights on navigating Vancouver Airport, booking an extra bag after an outlet shopping sprees, and how to reach out for support when you need help.

What’s your favourite Canadian destination, or what’s on your bucket list? Let Janis or I know if you enjoyed this episode and continue the conversation - we'd love to hear your thoughts!

References Mentioned in the Show:
Air Canada: https://www.aircanada.com/home/au/en/aco/flights
Australia Trade Support: [email protected]
New Zealand Trade Support: [email protected]
Vancouver International Airport: https://www.yvr.ca/en/passengers
Canada Specialist Program: https://canadaspecialist.com.au/login
Air Canada Update on the CSP Webinar Series: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/library/csp-air-canada-update/
Connect with Janis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janis-mcdonald-59619263
Connect with Denise Uribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-uribe-b215a3104/

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Destination Webinars Library: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/webinar-library/
Destination Webinars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destinationwebinars 

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