Travel Agent Takeaways

Have you ever wondered how to truly get the most out of Los Angeles for your clients, no matter how many times they’ve been?

In this episode, I chat with Kat Brown, Director, Travel Trade - Asia Pacific at Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, based in Sydney. Kat shares her wealth of knowledge about the city, breaking down LA’s seven regions and revealing hidden gems, must-dos, and tips for all kinds of travellers—from first-timers to seasoned visitors. Learn how to confidently recommend the perfect LA experience for your clients.

Kat also offers invaluable insights into working with tourism boards, showing how they can become your top resource for creating unforgettable client itineraries.

Stick around for Kat’s quickfire recommendations tailored to different types of travellers. After listening, you’ll feel empowered to showcase your expertise and ensure your clients have the time of their lives in LA.

Which of Kat’s tips will you share with your clients? Connect with me on LinkedIn to share your thoughts or ask any follow-up questions—I’d love to hear how this episode helps you!

References Mentioned in the Show:
LA Tourism’s trade website: https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/travel-trade
LA Sales Kit: https://latourismorg.box.com/s/ojj7wnty0c5r5kgey85srzk6pdlt13lc
LA Webinar Series: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/library/los-angeles-101/
Email LA Tourism Oceania: [email protected]
Kat's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenfinneran/

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie's 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

How can expedition cruising have a positive impact?

In this episode, I sit down with Jamie van Jones, an experienced Expedition Leader and Sales Executive for the brand new Paspaley Pearl by Ponant, to explore the unique and sustainable approach this boutique cruise offering is taking.

With only 30 guests on board and a deep commitment to responsible tourism, Jamie shares how the Paspaley Pearl offers unforgettable experiences while contributing positively to remote communities and fragile environments.

Tune in to discover exciting itineraries to some of the most remote and stunning locations in Indonesia, the Kimberley, and Papua New Guinea. Learn how ‘Citizen Science’ initiatives on board are turning guests into ambassadors for environmental stewardship.

If your clients are looking for an adventure that gives back, this episode will show you how the Paspaley Pearl is developing sustainable expedition cruising.

Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation with Jamie, where you'll gain insider knowledge on how to create meaningful travel experiences that leave a positive impact.

What are your thoughts on creating a positive impact through travel? Connect with me on LinkedIn, and let's continue the conversation on how we can make travel more meaningful together.

References Mentioned in the Show
Paspaley Pearl by Ponant: https://paspaleypearlbyponant.com.au/
Paspaley Pearl by Ponant webinar: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/library/paspaley-pearl-by-ponant/
Jamie Van Jones LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-van-jones-95653437/
Jamies’ email: [email protected]
Paspaley Pearl by Ponant Trade Marketing Toolbox: https://paspaleypearlbyponant.com.au/register/

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/  

 Do you know much about Oregon? What makes this state so special for travellers?

In this episode I chat with Joanne Motta, Travel Oregon’s Trade Director for Australia and New Zealand, to give you a beginner’s guide to the stunning state of Oregon. From its breathtaking natural wonders to its vibrant city life, Joanne shares everything you need to confidently talk to your clients about why Oregon should be in their travel plans.

You’ll learn about Oregon’s diverse landscapes, the best activities for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike, and insider tips on how to experience the state like a local. Whether your clients are into hiking, wine tasting, tax-free shopping, or attending thrilling sports games, this episode is packed with ideas.

Stay tuned for Joanne’s quirky tip and discover how to create unforgettable travel itineraries that combine Oregon with other North American destinations.

What was your favourite takeaway about Oregon from this episode? Joanne and I would love to hear from you so feel free to reach out via email or connect on LinkedIn.

References Mentioned in the Show:
Travel Oregon Website: https://traveloregon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traveloregon/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TravelOregon
Canuckiwi: https://canuckiwi.com/
Joanne's Email: [email protected]
Connect with Joanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-motta-00049b97/

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

Are you keen to dive deeper into France and create immersive itineraries for your clients?

In this episode, I chat with Clelie Collas, the Trade Marketing Manager for Atout France Australia and New Zealand. Clelie shares highlights from her recent trip to France, including her experience on the direct Perth-to-Paris flight and innovative wine tourism offerings and immersive wine and food experiences.

We also talk about what’s coming up for France in 2025 - major events like the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Tour de France’s exciting route, and the 20th anniversary of the Loire Valley’s cycling paths. Clelie shares how travel agents can stay connected with Atout France through resources like the France Connoisseur training programme, AI itinerary tools, and regional newsletters.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical tips and insider knowledge to better sell France as a diverse destination for all types of travellers.

What’s your favourite French region or experience you’ve planned for your clients? Let’s connect on LinkedIn—I’d love to hear about it and share more tips for selling France!

References Mentioned in the Show:
Atout France: https://www.atout-france.fr/
France Connoisseur training platform: https://elearning.atout-france.fr/?lng=en
Destination Vignoble: https://destinationvignobles.org/
Metropolitan Museum of Art: https://www.metmuseum.org/
Loire Valley: https://www.loirevalley-france.co.uk/
Tour De France: https://www.letour.fr/en
Travel Trade Connect: https://www.travelagentfinder.com.au/travel-trade-connect
Explore France YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/ExploreFrance

Connect with Clelie and Atout France
Explore France on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explorefrance
Explore France YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ExploreFrance
Clelie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleliecollas 

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie's 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

Are you looking for ways to deliver the best, customised travel experiences for your clients while saving time and minimising hassle?

In this episode, I chat with Vanessa Wallace, owner of V Travel Network, who shares how her company tailors unforgettable journeys for travellers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-track destinations. From complex, curated packages to specialised pre- and post-trip arrangements, Vanessa explains how V Travel Network makes it easy for agents to craft custom FIT itineraries.

Vanessa brings her wealth of travel experience and love for slow travel into this discussion, emphasising experiences like local home stays, cultural immersions, and flexible add-ons that cater to the independent traveller. You’ll hear about trends in popular destinations and get practical advice on piecing together unforgettable trips that match clients’ unique needs, no matter the destination.

Tune in to learn why booking through a trusted local wholesaler can streamline your work as a travel agent, help avoid financial risks, and ultimately provide your clients with an enriching, well-supported travel experience.

What’s your biggest takeaway from this episode? I'd love to connect and hear your thoughts.

References Mentioned in the Show:
V Travel Network: https://vtravelnetwork.com/
CATO (Council of Australian Tour Operators) Touring Academy: https://www.cato.travel/
Travel Agent Finder: https://www.travelagentfinder.com.au/

Connect with V Travel Network and Vanessa:
Agent email address: [email protected]
General enquiries: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTravelNetwork
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vtravelnetwork/
Vanessa'sLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessawallacekaplan/ 
V Travel Network Australian and New Zealand:

• AU : +61 7 3411 2090
• NZ : +64 9801 0014
• AU Local Call: 1300 884 332

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie's 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

Are you ready to give your clients a hassle-free, magical Christmas in Europe?

I chat with Shelley Poten, managing director of Albatross Tours, as she shares insights on how travel agents can help their clients plan the perfect European Christmas getaway.

Shelley highlights Albatross Tours' unique small-group festive tours, designed specifically for Australian and Kiwi travellers, and how agents can take advantage of their seamless booking process to provide their clients with a stress-free holiday experience.

You’ll discover the key benefits of offering Albatross Tours to your clients, from their carefully curated itineraries, handpicked hotels, and inclusive packages, to how their longer stays and no hidden extras provide incredible value for travellers

Shelley also gives tips on preparing for the 2025 festive season, with early booking options and exclusive pre-registration for agents.

Tune in to learn how you can help your clients create unforgettable Christmas memories while simplifying the entire booking process for yourself, ensuring everyone enjoys the magic of Europe during the holiday season.

What Christmas destination would your clients love the most?
Let’s connect on LinkedIn — I’d love to hear how you’re helping them plan their perfect holiday!

References Mentioned in the Show:
Albatross Tours Australia: https://albatrosstours.com.au/
Albatross Tours New Zealand: https://www.albatrosstours.co.nz/

Connect with Shelley & Albatross Tours
Shelley’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleypoten
Reservations Australia: 1300 135 015
Email: [email protected]

Connect with Charlie & Destination Webinars:
Charlie’s 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

Are you ready to boost your travel sales with some simple strategies you can apply today?

In this episode I chat with Nicole O'Sullivan, founder of Birds Eye View Consulting, a seasoned travel industry expert turned sales coach. Nicole breaks down the winning ‘Three Cs’  strategy - connection, confidence, and conversion, with actionable tips that you can start using today.

Find out how to create authentic connections with clients, build confidence and craft a sense of urgency that drives bookings.

Whether you're a home-based or store-based agent, or in wholesale reservations, Nicole’s insights will give you tools to build lasting relationships, boost sales, and grow your business fast.

What’s one strategy you’ll give a try this week? Let’s continue the conversation - connect with me on LinkedIn and share your thoughts!

References Mentioned in the Show:

• Birds Eye View Consulting: https://birdseyeviewconsulting.com/ 
• Travel Trend Summit: https://www.stephaniemyers.academy/traveltrend 
• Travel Agent Day Australia: https://www.tadaustralia.com/

Connect with Nicole O’Sullivan & Birds Eye View Consulting:

• Nicole’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-o-sullivan/
• Nicole’s email: [email protected]
• Birds Eye View Consulting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birds_eye_view_consulting1/
• Birds Eye View Consulting YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@birdseyeviewconsulting7654 

Connect with Charlie Trevena & Destination Webinars:

• Charlie’s 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 learn how to create an unforgettable experience that your clients will love?

In this episode I’m joined by Norma Keshishian from Destination Artisans who specialise in arranging private, bespoke tours in France and Belgium. Norma, a true destination expert with over a decade of experience living in Paris, shares her passion for creating personalised itineraries that go beyond the ordinary. From private guides and unique tour options to insider tips for avoiding the crowds.

You’ll discover how to create unforgettable trips for your clients, including how to offer tailored experiences that make each tour unique. Norma shares some of her favourites, including a memorable visit to the Château de Versailles and travelling in a vintage Citroën through the streets of Paris.

Learn how you can give your clients the kind of trip that goes from ordinary to priceless.

If you're looking to offer exceptional travel experiences, this episode is full of useful takeaways.

What unique travel experiences have you organised for your clients? Let’s connect on LinkedIn and keep the ideas flowing.

References Mentioned in the Show

• Destination Artisans: https://www.destinationartisans.com/ 
• CATO: https://www.cato.travel/ 
• Virtuoso: https://www.virtuoso.com/ 
• ATIA: https://atia.travel/
• Chateau de Versailles: https://en.chateauversailles.fr/
• Louvre Museum: https://www.louvre.fr/en 

Connect with Destination Artisans

• Destination Artisans: https://www.destinationartisans.com/ 
• Norma’s email: [email protected]
• Norma’s phone numbers:
• AU +61 (0)400 883 641
• FR +33 (0)659 109 064
• US +1 (0)740 601 9605 
• Norma’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norma-keshishian-734a8444 

Connect with Destination Webinars:

• Charlie’s 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

Are you curious about the latest trends in luxury travel?

In this episode, I sit down with Katrina Thirkell from Abercrombie & Kent to find out about the hottest destinations and how you can create bespoke, unforgettable travel experiences for your clients.

We also talk about the rise of multi-generational and solo travel and how Abercrombie & Kent is leading the way in delivering tailored, immersive journeys.

Finally, we explore the growing demand for sustainable and mindful travel, with Katrina revealing how Abercrombie & Kent is making a positive impact through their philanthropic initiatives.

What destination are your clients most excited about right now?

Let’s connect on LinkedIn, I love hearing your thoughts on what’s hot with your clients too!

References Mentioned in the Show
Abercrombie & Kent website: https://www.abercrombiekent.com/ 
Abercrombie & Kent Private Estates in Tuscany for 2025: https://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/private-estates 
AKP (Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy) projects: https://www.akphilanthropy.org/
Monthly EDM sign-up for agents: https://www.abercrombiekent.com/agent-services 

Connect with Abercrombie & Kent
Sales Support Email: [email protected]
AKTG Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/492801731992847/ 
Booking Contact: https://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/contact-us
Katrina’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-thirkell-375ba961/

Connect with Destination Webinars:
Charlie’s 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 learn how to create the ultimate Anaheim itinerary for your clients?

I chat with Michael Cassis, our local expert and representative for Visit Anaheim, who shares insider tips on making the most of this iconic destination. Michael’s knowledge will help you craft unforgettable itineraries including Disneyland and beyond, as well as discovering hidden gems and some of Michael’s favourites.

You'll learn how to pace the days, where to find the best food spots, and how to use Anaheim as a base to explore more of Southern California. Plus, we talk about exciting seasonal events like Halloween celebrations and events.

Michael also shares his passion for the trade and how the 'Aussies in Anaheim' incentive encourages travel agents to engage as influencers. Tune in to discover how you can take advantage of this exciting opportunity.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and how you're planning to incorporate these insights into your travel planning! Let me know on LinkedIn.

References Mentioned in the Show
Visit Anaheim: https://www.visitanaheim.org/
Disneyland Resort: https://disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm: https://www.knotts.com/
Universal Studios: https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/
Anaheim Packing District: https://anaheimpackingdistrict.com/
Anaheim Ducks: https://www.nhl.com/ducks
SeaWorld San Diego: https://seaworld.com/san-diego
Warner Bros Studio Tour: https://www.wbstudiotour.com/
Destination Webinars: Visit Anaheim: https://www.destinationwebinars.com.au/library/vusa-visit-anaheim/
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-cassis
Visit Anaheim Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitanaheim/

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