Travel Bros Pod

https://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas discuss his experiences at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel and the new Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, Florida. They delve into the hotel’s amenities, dining options, and the unique features of the Epic Universe park, including its rides and attractions. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating the park, such as long wait times and the cost of express passes. Overall, they provide insights into whether the hotel is worth the price for those planning to visit the park.

00:00 Introduction to Universal Helios Grand Hotel
04:51 Rides and Attractions: A Family-Friendly Experience
07:16 Dining Options: Food at the Hotel and Park
09:56 Navigating Wait Times and Express Passes
12:56 Hotel Overview: Amenities and Features
15:28 Room Experience: Comfort and Technology
18:15 Feedback on Soundproofing and Wi-Fi
20:40 Parking Fees and Additional Charges
23:26 Dining Experiences at Flora Taverna
23:46 Park Hours and Early Entrance Insights
25:13 Managing Early Park Entrance Lines
26:16 Tour Options: Express Pass vs. VIP Tours
28:15 Comparing Tour Experiences: Epic Universe vs. Disney
28:39 Game Room and Entertainment Options at Hotel
30:22 Evaluating the Semi-Private Tour Experience
31:26 Gym Facilities and Club Lounge Amenities
33:26 Is the Hotel Worth It Without Epic Universe?
35:07 Alternative Hotel Options in Orlando
36:31 Exploring Gatorland: A Unique Attraction
38:42 Conclusion and Future Travel Plans


Other Orlando Hotel Options We Have Reviewed: 

Ritz Carlton Orlando
https://youtu.be/NAy-Sbeda24

Conrad + Evermore Resort
https://youtu.be/bkaMoS4MzG8

New Island Tower at Disney Polynesian Resort 
https://youtu.be/KZl2RW-z3cE


TLDR 
The Universal Helios Grand Hotel is ideally located for visiting Epic Universe.
Epic Universe features themed areas like Mario World and a monster universe.
Dining options at the hotel and park are above average for theme parks.
The hotel offers early park entrance, which can be beneficial for guests.
Room views of the park are impressive, especially at night.
Parking fees at the hotel are quite high for non-guests.
Express passes are available for purchase but may not significantly reduce wait times.
VIP tours are available for those looking to maximize their park experience.
The hotel lacks some amenities compared to other high-end properties in Orlando.
Overall, the hotel is best suited for those visiting Epic Universe.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas explore various luxury hotels that feature water parks, discussing their unique offerings, amenities, and experiences. They cover properties like the J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort, Four Seasons Orlando, Beaches Turks and Caicos, JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge, and Aulani, highlighting the family-friendly aspects and luxurious features of each location. The discussion provides insights into the best options for families looking for a vacation that combines relaxation and fun. In this episode, Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas discuss their experiences at various luxury resorts, focusing on the Ko Olina property in Hawaii and its unique offerings. They explore dining options, local attractions, and the anticipated Atlantis development. The conversation also highlights the Grand Wailea Resort's water park features, family activities, and unique attractions. The hosts share tips for planning a stay, including the importance of considering dining and entertainment options. They conclude with honorable mentions of other properties and travel tips for families.


Please reach out with our link above to book any of these amazing properties. Often we have access to travel agent only promotions and can provide great extra value such as property credits, free breakfast, upgrades and late checkout based upon availability! 

Full Episode on Baha Mar (Episode 1): 
https://youtu.be/49OIhxcz0zU?si=MWlNRSkNaFXlfmSu

Full Episode on Atlantis: 
https://youtu.be/n4ggld16Nhg?si=Vewu6pR8dJp8g9sR


Chapters
00:00 Exploring Luxury Hotels with Water Parks
00:57 J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa Overview
06:13 Four Seasons Orlando: A Luxurious Experience
13:25 Beaches Turks and Caicos: All-Inclusive Family Fun
22:21 JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge: A Hidden Gem
24:09 Exploring the Water Park Features
30:29 A Deep Dive into Aulani Hawaii Resort
36:40 Atlantis Oahu - Will It Ever Come?
40:42 Waldorf Astoria Grand Wailea Overview
48:42 Exploring Resort Amenities and Dining Options
51:07 Water Park Features and Activities
54:04 Gaylord Opryland and its Indoor and Outdoor Water Parks
59:28 Hyatt Regency Lost Pines: A Family-Friendly Destination
01:07:56 Honorable Mentions and Future Travel Tips


TLDR 
The J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort features a large lazy river and various pools.
Four Seasons Orlando offers a luxurious experience with views of Disney fireworks.
Beaches Turks and Caicos is a top all-inclusive option for families.
The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge has a large water park and golf courses.
Aulani provides a unique Disney experience in Hawaii with themed water attractions.
Luxury hotels with water parks cater to families looking for fun and relaxation.
Character breakfasts at Four Seasons Orlando can enhance the family experience.
All-inclusive resorts can save families money on food and activities.
Water parks at hotels vary in size and offerings, catering to different age groups.
Booking through Travel Bros can provide additional perks and upgrades. 
The Atlantis development in Hawaii has faced delays but shows promise.
The Grand Wailea Resort features impressive water park amenities.
Family-friendly activities are abundant at the Grand Wailea.
Unique attractions like the water elevator enhance the experience.
Indoor water parks can be a great year-round option.
Planning is key for a successful family vacation.
Consider split stays at Disney for added benefits.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas discuss experiences at the Mandarin Oriental Taipei, highlighting its luxury accommodations, dining options, and the cultural significance of the Dragon Boat Festival. They compare it to other hotels in Taipei, share travel tips, and recommend local attractions and dining experiences, emphasizing the affordability and accessibility of Taiwan as a travel destination.

Benefits of Mandarin Oriental Fan Club Booking with Us: 
$100 food & beverage credit or spa credit 
Daily full American breakfast for two
Personalized welcome amenity
Room upgrade, subject to availability at check-in


00:00 Introduction and Breaking News
02:24 Overview of Mandarin Oriental Taipei
06:14 Luxury Hotel Comparison in Taipei
09:19 Room Experience at Mandarin Oriental
13:05 Dining and Breakfast Experience
16:52 Exploring Taipei and Local Attractions
28:47 Cultural Insights and Night Markets
31:36 Exploring the Hotel Amenities
34:12 Spa and Fitness Center Highlights
37:07 Unique Activities and Experiences
38:20 Adventures Beyond the Hotel
43:52 Dining and Local Cuisine
48:20 Comparing Other Hotel Options
51:47 Cultural Insights and Travel Tips

TLDR 
The Mandarin Oriental Taipei is the only true luxury hotel in the city.
The hotel offers great value compared to similar properties in Tokyo or Hong Kong.
Breakfast at the hotel is one of the best dining experiences available.
Taiwan is an affordable travel destination with a rich culture.
The Dragon Boat Festival offers unique local experiences for visitors.
The pool and spa facilities at the Mandarin Oriental are exceptional.
Taipei has a vibrant biking and running culture, making it great for fitness enthusiasts.
Dining options in Taipei are diverse and delicious, with many local specialties to try.
Transportation in Taipei is convenient and affordable, especially with Uber.
The Mandarin Oriental offers a range of activities and amenities for families.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode of Travel Bros, Joey Redmond is flying solo and discusses various updates in the hotel industry, including new hotel developments, controversial customer experiences, and significant renovations. He highlights the upcoming openings of luxury hotels in Fredericksburg, Texas, and the Waldorf Astoria in New York, as well as the challenges faced by the Park Hyatt Cabo. The episode also covers the impact of recent events, such as the fire at the Grand Canyon Lodge, and the introduction of Kimpton's new all-inclusive resort in Mexico.

00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:44 Hotel Developments in Fredericksburg, Texas
03:14 Controversial Hotel Charges from TikTok 
07:05 Park Hyatt Cabo and Waldorf Astoria New York
11:51 Luxury Hotels Openings in Puerto Rico
14:13 Park Hyatt coming to Kuala Lumpur and Vancouver 
19:07 The Grand Canyon Lodge Fire Incident
25:28 New Hotel Openings and Future Prospects
30:55 Book with the TravelBros 

TLDR
Fredericksburg, Texas, is seeing a surge in hotel developments with two major hotels planned for 2027 including a Kimpton and Waldorf Astoria
Controversial charges for smoking at hotels are causing customers to take to social media 
Park Hyatt Cabo has delayed its opening to October 2025, raising concerns among potential guests.
The Waldorf Astoria in New York has undergone a billion-dollar renovation and is now open.
Four Seasons Puerto Rico is set to open later this year, transitioning from a St. Regis property.
The Kuala Lumpur Park Hyatt is accepting reservations for 2025, located in a new skyscraper.
The Shangri-La Vancouver is being remodeled and rebranded as a Park Hyatt.
Kimpton is entering the all-inclusive market with a new resort in Mexico set to open in 2026.
The Grand Canyon Lodge has been destroyed by fire, impacting the North Rim's visitor experience.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas explore their experiences in Lake Como, Italy, focusing on the Grand Hotel Victoria. They discuss the challenges and excitement of driving in the area, the luxurious features of the hotel, including its dining options and spa, and the overall travel experience. They also touch on pricing, seasonal considerations, and nearby attractions, making it a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to visit Lake Como.

Booking With Us at Grand Hotel Victoria in Lake Como includes these extra benefits: 
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay, applicable towards Spa services or Food & Beverage
Complimentary welcome drink
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi

00:00 Exploring Lake Como: A Journey Begins
04:55 Grand Hotel Victoria: A Luxurious Stay
14:23 Room Types and Amenities: What to Expect
16:39 Dining and Leisure: Culinary Delights and Relaxation
18:40 Grand Victoria Beach Club: A New Addition to Luxury
22:52 Final Thoughts: Value and Experience
23:29 Exploring the Spa Experience
27:18 Understanding Pricing and Seasonal Stays
32:38 Activities and Attractions Around Lake Como
33:58 Lake Como as a Gateway to Italy
37:36 Celebrity Sightings and Unique Villas
39:21 Alternative Hotel and Location Options to Lake Como


Food Places We Talk About in the Show
La Costa
Crotto del Sergente
Divino 13

Other Lake Como Recs
Granmercato (Grocery)
Villa Carlotta (Museum and Gardens)
KIDS Park Como (Kids Indoor Playground)


TLDR
Lake Como offers stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Driving in Lake Como can be challenging due to narrow roads.
The Grand Hotel Victoria is a luxurious option with excellent service.
Dining options at the hotel include fine dining and casual spots.
The spa at the hotel is one of the best experiences available.
Pricing varies significantly based on the season and room type.
Lake Garda is a great alternative to Lake Como for travelers.
The area is rich in history and local culture.
Celebrity sightings are common in Lake Como, adding to its allure.
The hotel provides a family-friendly environment with various activities.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, Joey and Jamie explore the beautiful island of St. Thomas, discussing its accessibility for American travelers, the best accommodations including the Ritz Carlton, Westin, and Buoy Haus. Then they cover the various activities available on the island. They also compare St. Thomas to other Caribbean destinations and highlight the benefits of booking through Travel Bros.

00:00 Exploring St. Thomas: An Overview

03:50 The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

09:15 The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa

12:30 Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas, Autograph Collection

15:07 Booking with Us: Benefits and Insights

18:00 Activities and St. Thomas 101

TLDR 

• St. Thomas is easily accessible for U.S. citizens without needing a passport.
• The Ritz Carlton offers luxury accommodations with extensive amenities.
• The Westin and Bowie House provide more affordable options for travelers.
• Megan's Bay is a must-visit beach known for its beauty.
• Snorkeling and water sports are popular activities in St. Thomas.
• Travelers can take a ferry to nearby St. John's for more exploration.
• St. Thomas is generally more affordable than other Caribbean destinations like Turks and Caicos.
• Booking through Travel Bros provides additional benefits like breakfast and property credits.
• The island offers a variety of hiking trails for adventure seekers.
• St. Thomas has a vibrant local culture and shopping opportunities.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode, Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas discuss the upcoming World Cup 2026, focusing on travel tips, hotel recommendations, and the best cities to watch the games. They explore the FIFA approved team base camps and what hotels each team will be using for the 2026 World Cup. They then cover the benefits of booking through specialized hotel programs, and provide insights on the best cities to visit during the tournament. The conversation also highlights specific hotel options in various cities, emphasizing the importance of location and amenities for World Cup travelers.

00:00 Introduction to the World Cup 2026 and Hotels

02:17 FIFA Approved Team Base Camp Hotels

06:07
Travel Tips for World Cup Attendees

08:31 Exploring How Teams and FIFA Pick Hotels

11:57 Logistics of Attending the World Cup 2026 in North America

13:49 Atlanta, Georgia

17:38 Seattle, Washington

19:25 Vancouver, Canada

21:40 Toronto + Montreal , Canada

24:38 Mexico City

27:45 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 

29:00 New York City, New York

31:12 San Francisco, California

33:10 Kansas City, Kansas

33:53 Miami, Florida

35:30 Dallas, Texas

36:51 Los Angeles, California

41:28 Quick Fire List of Best Luxury Hotels in Every World Cup City

TLDR 

• World Cup 2026 will feature 48 teams and 104 games.
• Travelers should consider hotel bookings with us for added benefits.
• Atlanta is a top city for attending World Cup games.
• Public transportation options vary significantly by city.
• Mexico City is a must-visit for its culture and history.
• Kansas City lacks luxury hotel options and public transportation.
• Miami offers great vacation opportunities but requires a car.
• Dallas is centrally located for easy flights to all other stadiums.
• Los Angeles has challenging transportation logistics for events at SOFI
• Booking hotels early is crucial to avoid inflated prices and sell outs!

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode of the Travel Bros podcast, Joey Redmond shares his experiences at the Park Hyatt Seoul, discussing the unique family room setup, hotel amenities, and the surrounding area. He provides insights on booking through Hyatt's Prive program, navigating language barriers, and transportation options. The conversation also covers the hotel's spa and fitness center, breakfast offerings, and nearby attractions, including cultural experiences and dining recommendations. Joey concludes with final thoughts on the hotel and its suitability for families traveling to Korea.

Key Benefits with Hyatt Prive Booking with us!
You'll enjoy these exclusive perks:
Daily breakfast for two.
$100 property credit.
Welcome amenity
Room Upgrades based on Forecasted Availability 
Early check-in, and late check-out (based on availability).


00:00 Introduction to Park Hyatt Seoul
02:46 Family Room Setup and Booking Experience
05:17 Location Insights and Surrounding Attractions
07:52 Hotel Amenities and Special Programs
09:48 Navigating Language Barriers and Technology in Korea
12:25 Transportation and Airport Experience
14:10 Room Features and Layouts
16:51 Spa, Pool, and Fitness Center Overview
23:15 Exploring the Park Hyatt Seoul's Amenities
24:06 Breakfast Delights at Cornerstone
26:34 Dining Options Beyond Breakfast
27:25 Local Dining Recommendations
28:38 Family Fun at Lotte World
33:57 Cultural Experiences: Korean Baseball
36:55 Amusement Parks and Unique Attractions
39:59 Outdoor Activities and Running Paths


TLDR
The Park Hyatt Seoul offers a unique family room setup.
The hotel is located near popular attractions and dining options.
Booking through Hyatt's Prive program provides valuable benefits.
Language barriers are minimal, with many Koreans speaking great English.
Transportation options include convenient airport transfers and local transit.
The hotel features a spa and fitness center with great amenities.
Breakfast at the hotel includes a mix of Western and Korean options.
Nearby attractions include the famous Starfield Library and Coex Mall.
Korean fried chicken is a must-try when visiting Seoul.
The Park Hyatt Seoul is highly recommended for families traveling to Korea.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode of Travel Pros Pod, Joseph Redmond and Jamie Haas explore the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, discussing its amenities, dining options, family-friendly features, and unique activities. They delve into the luxurious accommodations, the impressive kids club, and the extensive spa offerings. The conversation also highlights special events like the 4th of July celebrations and the exclusive Ritz-Carlton residences, making it a compelling destination for families and luxury travelers alike.


Reach out to us in the link above for any Marriott STARS Redemption and we can provide these additional perks:
$100 Property Credit
Room upgrade (subject to availability at check-in)
Complimentary full or continental breakfast daily (2 per bedroom)
Welcome amenity and note from property and free WIFI

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Ritz-Carlton Orlando
02:32 Room Features and Amenities
04:55 Family-Friendly Room Options and Suites
06:33 Dining and Club Level Experience
07:57 This unique Ritz Kids Program and Activities
11:07 Ritz Property Amenities and Outdoor Activities
17:50 Spa and Relaxation Options
19:18 Exploring Robot Massages at Ritz Spa
22:04 The Ritz-Carlton Spa Experience
22:55 Fitness Center and Family Activities
23:28 Entertainment Options at the Ritz
25:28 Dining Experiences at the Ritz
27:12 Transportation and Parking Tips
29:33 Ritz-Carlton Residences Overview
34:08 Fourth of July Celebrations at the Ritz

Other Orlando, Florida Property Reviews: 
Conrad Orlando (Evermore Resort) 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkaMoS4MzG8


TLDR 
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grand Lakes is the largest Ritz-Carlton by room count in the world
The property offers a wide range of activities for families, making it a great vacation spot.
Rooms have been recently renovated and are well-designed for comfort.
The Ritz-Carlton club level provides an elevated experience with multiple dining options.
The Ritz kids club features impressive amenities and activities for children.
Guests have access to a variety of outdoor activities, including eco tours and sports.
The spa is expansive and offers unique treatments, including a robotic massage experience.
Special events like the 4th of July celebration offer unique experiences for guests.
The Ritz-Carlton residences provide luxurious accommodations for families or groups.
Dining options include high-quality restaurants and casual poolside dining.

http://www.travelbrospod.com/bookwithus In this episode of the Travel Bros podcast, hosts Joey Redmond and Jamie Haas explore the diverse and luxurious hotel options available in Japan. They discuss various properties, including the Park Hyatt in Tokyo and Kyoto, the Ritz Carlton, Waldorf Astoria, and the newly opened Rosewood Hotel in Okinawa. The conversation highlights the unique experiences each hotel offers, from stunning views and exceptional service to cultural immersion and modern amenities. The hosts also touch on the differences in hotel experiences across various regions in Japan, making it a comprehensive guide for travelers looking to explore the country's hospitality scene.

Most of these hotels mentioned we can provide VIP benefits and extra services. Just inquire with the link above for things like:
Free breakfast
Property Credit
Free Upgrade based on Availability 
Early Check-in and Check-out based on availability 
Special Promotional Rates and much more! 

00:00 Exploring Japan's Hotel Landscape
06:10 Park Hyatt Kyoto: A Unique Experience
10:52 Waldorf Astoria Osaka: A New Luxury Hotel
16:25 Ritz Carlton Kyoto: Traditional Meets Modern
20:53 Rosewood Miyakojima: A New Hidden Gem in Japan
26:26 The Ritz Carlton Nikko: A Nature Retreat
31:10 Pure Urban Luxury at the Aman Tokyo
37:22 Skiing Paradise: Park Hyatt Niseko

TLDR
Japan is becoming a top destination for luxury hotels.
The Park Hyatt Tokyo is iconic and under a major renovation 
Ritz Carlton Kyoto offers a blend of luxury and nature.
Waldorf Astoria Osaka is a new luxury arrival.
Rosewood Hotel in Okinawa is a stunning property.
Ritz Carlton Nikko features an onsen and nature activities.
Aman Tokyo is the pinnacle of luxury accommodations.
Park Hyatt Niseko is ideal for skiing and summer adventures.
Japanese hotels excel in service and hospitality.
Traveling to Japan offers diverse experiences across regions.
Park Hyatt is the hotel where almost all of the movie Lost in Translation was filmed