Travel That Matters

Travel That Matters

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Travel That Matters episodes

  • Gregory Gourdet (2x Top Chef Finalist): Peruvian Adventures, Oaxaca (Mexico) for Food Lovers, Haitian Cuisine and Travels, Best Meals of the Year

    Gregory Gourdet is an American chef, writer, restaurateur, and former finalist on the twelfth and seventeenth seasons of Top Chef. His first restaurant Kann was named America’s best new restaurant at the 2023 James Beard awards.

    Gregory shares his experience on Top Chef and how it inspired him to travel around the world. We also get a sneak peek of his work guiding global travel experiences with Modern Adventure. We learn about what part of the world Gregory is most passionate about right now. We hear what trendy country in South America is unlike any other place on earth in terms of unique ingredients and flavor. Gregory shares one of his favorite travel experiences up in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. He also shares his thoughts on why his restaurant Kann has been so well received. We learn about Haiti and why Gregory thinks it’s poised to become a hot travel destination again. We find out what his “last meal” would be if he had to pick only one! Gregory shares his favorite nonfood-related trip, and why it’s such an ultra experience. Finally, we hear what and where Gregory’s best meals of the year have been. 

    In the wrap, Bruce welcomes chef Wayne Brown to the show. Wayne heads up operations of Carte Blanched – Ennismore’s in-house F&B development and concepting studio. We learn what goes into the concept development with Carte Blanched projects. Wayne also shares how Carte Blanched tailors each concept to its unique region and culture. We get a sneak peek into an exciting upcoming mixology project opening in Barcelona. We hear more about the new Mondrian Singapore Duxton food concepts coming to life, and how “the greatest butcher in the world” Dario Cecchini is building their new restaurant Bottega Di Carna. Finally, Wayne shares some interesting stories about his travels to Asia, and how those trips led him to who he is today. 

    To learn more about Gregory Gourdet or any of his projects, visit https://gregorygourdet.com/ 

    To find out more about Wayne Brown and Carte Blanched, visit https://carte-blanched.com/ 

    A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef Series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting.

    Thank you also to Accor and the Mondrian Singapore Duxton for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Mondrian Singapore Duxton and their Bottega Di Carna restaurant visit https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/mondrian/singapore-duxton/dining 

    Links and mentions:

    • Modern Adventure: https://modernadventure.com/
    • La Picanteria (Peru): https://picanteriasdelperu.com/
    • Kann (Portland): https://kannrestaurant.com/
    • Sousol (Portland): https://sousolbar.com/
    • Tatiana (NYC): https://www.tatiananyc.com/
    • Skybar Condesa (Mexico City) https://book.ennismore.com/nightlife/skybar/condesa
    • Cleo Mediterraneo: https://book.ennismore.com/restaurants/cleo
    • Mondrian Singapore Duxton: https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/mondrian/singapore-duxton
    • Hyde Hotel, Niko (Ibiza): https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/hyde/ibiza/dining
    • Bottega Di Carna (Singapore): https://book.ennismore.com/hotels/mondrian/singapore-duxton/dining 

    Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production.

    Host: Bruce Wallin

    Producer: AJ Moseley

    Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas

    Music: Joey Salvia

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    38 min
  • Gail Simmons (Bravo’s Top Chef Judge): Kibbutz in Israel, Neighborhood Spot in Melbourne, Safaris in South Africa, Love of Japan

    Gail Simmons has served as a permanent judge on Bravo’s Emmy-winning series Top Chef since the show’s inception in 2006. She is also a food journalist, cookbook author, mother of two, and avid global traveler.

    In this episode, we hear some of Gail Simmon’s insights on judging Top Chef contestants and dishes, but she mainly talks about how travel has shaped her career and life. We learn about her time working on a kibbutz in Israel, and her firsthand knowledge of why the country has such a unique culinary scene and culture. She also talks about her love of Australia, why the country’s food scene is so exciting, and how she found the perfect neighborhood spot in Melbourne. 

    Gail also shares why she goes back to South Africa again and again, and how safaris have been such an influential experience throughout her life. As for her favorite food destination, Gail goes into her love of Japan and some of her great culinary adventures in the country. She also talks about how important traveling with her family has been—and will continue to be—for her. 

    In the wrap, Bruce sits down with acclaimed Israeli chef Uri Jeremias at his Efendi Hotel in the Old City of Akko. The man behind the famed restaurant Uri Buri, Uri shares his insights about what makes Israel such a special destination for food, history, and more.

    To learn more about Gail Simmons or any of her projects, visit http://gailsimmons.com/.

    To find out more about Uri Jeremias and his Efendi Hotel and Uri Buri restaurant in the Old City of Akko, visit https://efendi-hotel.co.il/?lang=en.  

    A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines, including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to www.Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible deals—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting.

    Thank you also to Accor and Raffles Doha for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Raffles Doha or its new ALBA restaurant from chef Enrico Crippa, visit https://www.raffles.com/doha/dining/alba-by-enrico-crippa/. 

    Kann (Portland) https://kannrestaurant.com/

    ARU (Melbourne) Thai https://aru.net.au/

    Cumulus (Melbourne) https://www.cumulusinc.com.au/

    Kruger National Park  https://www.krugerpark.co.za/

    Six Senses Shaharut https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/shaharut 

    Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production.

    Host: Bruce Wallin

    Producer: AJ Moseley

    Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas

    Music: Joey Salvia

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    43 min
  • Daniel Boulud (Highly Decorated chef): Michelin Star Restaurants in Europe, Hometown of Lyon, Delicious Bahamian Food, Traveling with Children

    Highly decorated chef and owner of prestigious restaurants all over the world Daniel Boulud starts off this episode of Travel That Matters by telling us what and how he prepared one of the best meals host Bruce ever had the night before this interview was recorded. The two go on to discuss Daniel’s experience working in a variety of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe as well as why Daniel thinks his hometown of Lyon, France, is such a great travel and food destination. They also discuss their shared love of Bahamian food and what makes the seafood culture so unique. Then, Daniel names some of his favorite countries to travel and eat his way through, and why he thinks they’re so distinguishable from the rest.

    Daniel is a lover of philanthropy and shares some of the ways he likes to give back both globally with his chef colleagues and nationally with his family. Daniel also shares a sneak peek of his first west coast restaurant opening soon. Finally, the two chat about the importance of family travel and sharing unique foods with their children at a young age. 

    To learn more about Chef Daniel Boulud or any of his projects, visit https://www.danielboulud.com/

    A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting.

    Thank you also to Accor and Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk and Brasserie Boulud, visit https://www.sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com/restaurants-bars/brasserie-boulud/

    Mentions:

    Restaurant Del Pescatore: https://www.dalpescatore.com/it

    LA MEUNIÈRE: https://www.lameuniere.fr/

    Le Suprême: https://lesupremelyon.fr/fr

    Café Boulud The Bahamas: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/baha-mar/dining/cafe-boulud

    Le Pavillon NYC: https://lepavillonnyc.com/

    Le Gratin: https://www.legratinnyc.com/

    Travel That Matters is a CurtCo Media Production.

    Host: Bruce Wallin

    Producer: AJ Moseley

    Marketing: Catrin Skaperdas

    Music: Joey Salvia

    This interview with Chef Daniel Boulud took place at the Rosewood Baha Mar resort in The Bahamas. https://bahamar.com/hotels/rosewood/

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    30 min
  • Amanda Freitag (Chopped Judge): Exploring Culture Across Italian Regions, Favorite U.S. Food Cities (Where to Find the Best Pizza), Canned Cocktails, Collectible Souvenirs

    In this episode, Amanda Freitag, well known for being a judge on Food Network’s “Chopped,” shares what unique item she collects during her travels around the world, her experiences as a chef, what restaurant was getting live frogs in a box in the morning and selling out before end of day, what she appreciates about Italian food that might surprise you, where she wants to travel to next, her suggestion for the best pizza in the US, and her favorite food cities in the US and what makes them so great. Amanda shares her thoughts on "what grows together goes together” and the new canned and bottled cocktail movement. Also, Bruce gives Amanda his suggestion for her next food trip.

    But that's not all! We also have a segment with famous Bahamian chef Simeon Hall Jr., a local legend and avid travel enthusiast. Simeon highlights how food plays a crucial role in travelers visiting the Bahamas and connecting people to his local culture and history. He provides valuable tips and restaurant suggestions for travelers looking to experience the country through its unique food. Chef Simeon also shares his must-try dishes for anyone visiting the Bahamas who is looking to get an authentic experience.

    To learn more about Amanda Freitag or any of her projects, visit https://www.amandafreitag.com/

    To find out more about Chef Simeon Hall Jr, visit https://www.simeonhalljr.com/

    A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to www.stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting.

    Thank you also to Accor and Bōkan London for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters’ Master Chef series. To learn more about the Bokan Restaurant and bar, visit http://bokanlondon.co.uk/.

    The interview with Chef Simeon Hall Jr took place at the Rosewood Baha Mar resort in The Bahamas.

    See www.omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    34 min
  • Marcus Samuelsson (Winner of Chopped and Iron Chef): Diverse Flavors of Africa, Top Culinary Destinations (Sweden), Insider Spots Across the U.S. (Los Angeles), Anthony Bourdain Memories

    Travel That Matters is back! The first episode of the brand-new Master Chef series features Marcus Samuelsson, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author, philanthropist and food activist.

    Marcus shares with us what he eats at ballpark stadiums, where goes to buy his spices and sauces in LA, and the differences in food and culinary scenes across the continent of Africa. Marcus also shares why food lovers should consider Sweden as a top destination.

    Marcus goes on to recount some wonderful stories from his experience in filming with Anthony Bourdain, as well as how filming No Passport Required (PBS) really exposed him to the bounty of food cultures across the U.S. (and what his favorite food cities are now.)

    Finally, Marcus talks about the impact one of the country’s most cherished food writers, Jonathon Gold, had on the food scene in Los Angeles and beyond.

    To learn more about Marcus's restaurants, recipes, and recordings, check out: https://marcussamuelsson.com/.

    A special thanks to Stonestreet Estate Vineyards for sponsoring the show today. Don't forget, listeners of the Master Chef Series can receive exclusive access to Stonestreet wines and experiences including some unique sets chosen by Bruce, along with a complimentary Single Vineyard tasting for two at the estate. Head over to Stonestreetwines.com/Travel to access these incredible wines—and don’t forget to use code TRAVEL to book your complimentary tasting.

    Thank you also to Accor and Fairmont Grand del Mar for sponsoring this episode of the Travel That Matters Master Chef series. To learn more about Fairmont Grand del Mar and its Michelin-three-star restaurant, Addison, visit fairmont.com.

    This interview took place at the Rosewood Baha Mar resort in The Bahamas. 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    34 min
  • 2023: Master Chef Series - Season 3 Trailer

    From planes to plates, this special podcast season of Travel That Matters with Bruce Wallin, award-winning travel editor, takes you on a culinary adventure around the globe. This brand-new Master Chef series features some of the best chefs and food personalities in the world and the global ventures that shaped them all. You’ll hear what it takes to create stunning hand-made pasta from the distinguished chef Daniel Boulud, get an inside look into the sights, smells, and tastes from around the world that inspired chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Gregory Gourdet, and learn about the best food cities in the United States, including where to find the best pizza (hint: it’s not in New York), from celebrity chef Amanda Freitag! You’ll also hear from Gail Simmons, Curtis Stone, Chris Jackson, Simon Hall Jr., and many more. The new Master Chef series from Travel That Matters showcases the “who’s who” of the culinary world and gives you a taste of how global travel makes food magical.

    Episode 1 of Travel That Matters Season 3 will be released on April 25. Hit the follow button (+) wherever you get podcasts and don't miss new episodes every other Tuesday.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2 min
  • Epic Family Travel from Mauritius to Japan with One&Only's Philippe Zuber

    Philippe starts by sharing his favorite family destination, the little-known Rodrigues Island in the Indian Ocean. Part of Mauritius, Rodrigues is a rare find in today’s world, a place that has truly preserved its historic culture, beautiful land- and seascapes, and laid-back island lifestyle.

    Next, Philippe talks about a decision he and his wife made when their two sons were young. They created a family policy by which each of the boys could choose a vacation destination anywhere in the world when they turned 10 and 20. The boys have both researched and selected their destinations in great detail, leading their parents so far on adventures through Vietnam, California, and Rwanda. Philippe believes that empowering his children in this way has led to greater engagement for them as well as better travel experiences for him and his wife.

    One common theme to Philippe’s family trips is food. He believes the power of food is transcendental to cultures and that his children’s education has benefitted from the many different flavors they’ve tasted around the world. The country that has stood out the most in terms of food is Japan, which, for many reasons, Philippe believes is one of the best destinations for families with teenagers.

    Regarding the age of children and how that informs travel decisions, Philippe sees the experience as a progression with stepping stones along the way. Younger kids especially need downtime, and there is a ceiling to the number of cultural experiences they can enjoy and absorb. For older children, Philippe suggests allowing them to pick the itinerary for an entire day during your trips. The Zuber's frequently do this on vacations, where each member of the family is responsible for one day’s planning, budgeting, and scheduling. He says it has led to a bit of friendly competition and a host of new experiences that would never have come to fruition otherwise. It also allowed the family members who weren’t in charge of the day’s itinerary to truly relax during their off days.

    Philippe also dives into his family’s life-changing experience in Rwanda, where One&Only operates two resorts, Gorilla’s Nest and Nyungwe House. He then gives us the inside scoop on some of the company’s other new resorts, from the spectacular Mandarina in Mexico—where Bruce interviewed him in person—to properties in Montenegro, Athens, Greece’s Kéa Island, and Big Sky, Montana.

    Links: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/ 

    Bruce's email: [email protected]

    Bruce's IG: @Brucewallintravel

    -----------------------------------

    Learn more about the podcast: https://www.curtco.com/travelthatmatters

    Hosted by: Bruce Wallin

    Produced by: AJ Moseley

    Music by: Joey Salvia

    A CurtCo Media Production

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    39 min
  • Go Here, Not There with New York Times Columnist and Alternative-Destination Expert Elaine Glusac

    New York Times travel columnist Elaine Glusac is an expert at something that has become increasingly essential for travelers: finding the best alternatives to the world’s most popular destinations. She joins Bruce to dive into the top spots for experiencing everything we love about over-touristed spots—minus the crowds.

    Elaine starts by giving us a behind-the-scenes look into the New York Times’ “52 Places” article, an annual feature that explores the newspaper’s picks for the year’s most compelling destinations. One spot Elaine has suggested several times for the list—the Great Lakes region—has never made the cut. The Chicago native tells us why she thinks the world’s largest freshwater system is so deserving, and why it’s
    such an interesting and important destination for travelers to consider right now. 

    A couple of Elaine’s other recent stories for the Times cover the concept of alternative destinations, including “Driving Iceland’s Overlooked North,” in which she recounts her family’s adventure in the country’s rarely visited Diamond Circle—a region that offers at least as much natural wonder and drama as the bustling Golden Circle. Her “Go Here, Not There” article—the inspiration for this episode of Travel That Matters—offers up a number of other great options for those looking for all the thrills without all the people. Starting with Europe, Elaine suggests Montenegro instead of Venice or Dubrovnik. The small country south of Croatia has incredible shorelines, well-preserved ancient cities, and the deepest rafting canyon in Europe, among other attractions. She also thinks travelers should consider Brittany the next time they visit France, for a more locals’ perspective on the country.

    Moving beyond Europe, Elaine shares her favorite spots for winter sports in Canada, including a network of ice-skating trails in the flooded forests of Quebec. She also discusses Panama (instead of Costa Rica) and its Chagres National Park; Dunedin, New Zealand, where the wildlife resembles that of the Galapagos; and much more. Throughout it all, her inspiring insights and tales are sure to make you think differently about travel—and start seeking out more alternative destinations.

    Links & Notes:

    • Diamond Circle
    • Go Here, Not There
    • Where Trails Are for Skating, Not Hiking
    • Elaine Glusac on Instagram
    • Amsterdam-Noord (The hip neighborhood AJ was referring to)
    • Travel That Matters recommended boutique hotel in Barcelona:  https://www.casabonay.com/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic

    -----------------------------------

    Learn more about the podcast: https://www.curtco.com/travelthatmatters

    Hosted by: Bruce Wallin

    Produced by: AJ Moseley

    Music by: Joey Salvia

    A CurtCo Media Production

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    39 min
  • There's Way More To Mexico Than You Think, with Journey Mexico Founder Zachary Rabinor

    We might as well call this “The Big Book of Mexico” episode, because it’s filled with a lifetime of adventures, insider spots, and authentic luxury hotels throughout the country. Our guest is Zachary Rabinor, the founder and president of Journey Mexico, a unique luxury travel company that takes clients far beyond the country’s well-known beach destinations. Not that he doesn’t appreciate Mexico’s great beach resorts—he’s been living in Puerto Vallarta for almost 20 years, and he joins Bruce in person from the town they both call home for this special episode. Zachary is the perfect person to lead us on a whirlwind tour of Mexico’s cultural, natural, and culinary riches, from Campeche and Chiapas in the south to the Copper Canyon and Baja wine country in the north. If you love Mexico like we do—or even if you’re just slightly curious about the country—this episode is a must listen!

    Learn More: Journey Mexico

    HACIENDAS:

    Hacienda De San Antonio: https://haciendadesanantonio.com/

    Hacienda San Gabriel De Las Palmas https://www.haciendasangabriel.com/en/

    Casa De La Real Aduana http://www.realaduana.com/

    COSTALEGRE

    Four Seasons Tamarindo https://www.fourseasons.com/tamarindo/

    XALA https://www.luxury-frontiers.com/project/xala/

    COPPER CANYON

    Copper Canyon Train: https://chepe.mx/en/

    CAMPECHE

    Calakmul Biosphere Reserve Jaguar Observation https://www.calakmul.org/html/learn.html

    PUEBLA

    Banyan Tree https://www.banyantree.com/mexico/puebla

    Cartesiano https://cartesiano360.com/en/

    La Purificadora https://www.lapurificadora.com/

    Wallin Wrap-Up

    I’m just going to assume that hearing from Zach got you very excited to visit Mexico. And now that you’re coming down here to visit, you’re going to need a few ideas about where to stay, so I thought I’d share some of my personal favorite hotels and resorts around the country.

    Now, Mexico really does have some of the best hotels in the world, and one that I’d say has kind of been the standard bearer over the years is Las Ventanas in Los Cabos.

    There are so many great beach resorts in Cabo—you’ve got One & Only Palmilla, Esperanza, Zadun, Pedregal—and you really can’t go wrong at any of them. But I’ve visited Las Ventanas a few times over the years, and I’m just always blown away by how good it is—the feel, the ambience, the service is spectacular.  

    Another Rosewood resort that is right up there with anything is Rosewood Mayakoba on the Riviera Maya. We’ve talked about this place before on the show, and it’s this very peaceful sanctuary in the mangroves and along this great stretch of beach. The food is really a standout here.

    Other spots I love on the Riviera Maya—the Hotel Escencia and the Belmond Maroma. Both on incredible beaches—like that soft white-sand beach Caribbean dream beach. Escencia is a very chic designer type place, while the Belmond is a little more classic Mexican in style. That one is closed for the next couple years for renovations, and I’m curious to see how that turns out.

    Closer to where I’ve been based here in Puerto Vallarta, Zach briefly mentioned Las Alamandas, which is a truly magical place. It’s on the Costalegre, south of Vallarta, and like Zach said, this area just hasn’t been developed like other coastal regions, so you have these huge pieces of land with only one small resort or a few homes. Alamandas is on 2,000 acres, it’s got four private beaches, and there are less than 20 suites. Definitely one of my favorite hideaways.

    Another one that came up in our conversation is Hacienda de San Antonio. This place is a working hacienda in the foothills of the Colima Volcano. Honestly, I don’t even know how to describe it. You just have to go check out their website, look at how incredible the photos and videos are, and then trust me that it really is that incredible. Unlike anywhere else I’ve ever been.

    Another hacienda property I love is Hacienda de los Santos in northern Mexico. Not a place that’s very easy to get to, but it’s in a great town called Alamos, which is kind of like a smaller, less discovered San Miguel de Allende.

    There are, of course, many, many great hotels in San Miguel and other cities throughout the country, but my favorite is the brand-new Casa Polanco in Mexico City. It’s just opening this month, and it’s another one of these converted mansions—I think it has 16 suites. It’s in probably the nicest location in the entire city, right on Lincoln Park in Polanco.

    You walk a few blocks one way and you’re at Bosque de Chapultepec, which is like the Central Park of Mexico City but twice the size. Walk a block the other way, and you’re in Polanco’s main shopping and dining area. Mexico City is such a fantastic place for food, for museums, for exploring, and when you come back at the end of the day, Casa Polanco is like returning to your own private mansion on the park.

    I’ll tell you, my recent trip to Mexico City definitely got me thinking that my next stint abroad should be in the capital. But for now, I’m going to enjoy the rest of my time in Puerto Vallarta. And I hope to see you all down here—or somewhere else in Mexico—very soon.

    Wrap Links:

    Rosewood Las Ventanas https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/las-ventanas-los-cabos/overview

    One &Only Palmilla https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/palmilla

    Esperanza https://aubergeresorts.com/esperanza/stay/

    Ritz Carlton Zadun https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/mexico/los-cabos

    Waldorf Astoria Pedregal https://www.waldorfastorialoscabospedregal.com/

    Rosewood Mayakoba https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/mayakoba-riviera-maya/overview

    Hotel Esencia https://hotelesencia.com/

    Belmond Maroma https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/mexico/riviera-maya/belmond-maroma-resort-and-spa/

    Las Alamandas https://alamandas.com/

    Hacienda De San Antonio https://haciendadesanantonio.com/

    Hacienda De Los Santos https://haciendadelossantos.com/wp/

    Casa Polanco https://www.casapolanco.com/

    -----------------------------------

    Learn more about the podcast: https://www.curtco.com/travelthatmatters

    Hosted by: Bruce Wallin

    Produced by: AJ Moseley

    Music by: Joey Salvia

    A CurtCo Media Production

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    46 min
  • Fun in Faraway Lands with Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs

    CEO of Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas and sustainability pioneer Neil Jacobs leads us on a journey to Oman, Israel, Brazil, India, and beyond, as he explores some of his company’s off-the-beaten-path properties—and how each is making sustainable tourism fun in its own unique way. 

    Neil, who speaks six different languages, is an ideal guide for a global journey. He speaks with Bruce about how his ability to communicate in locations worldwide opens up new experiences and often leads to his most cherished travel moments.  

    He believes that a visit to a Six Senses property should leave people in a better place than when they arrived—and that the company’s hotels should have an equally positive impact on their local communities and environments. Six Senses’ Earth Lab is a progressive initiative that includes everything from onsite water bars (the company produces all of its drinking water at the hotels and doesn’t use any plastic bottles) to farms where guests can interact with the properties’ chickens, cows, ducks, goats, and even camels. 

    Six Senses also offers a range of adventurous activities at its hotels and resorts—including a check-in by hang glider at Zighy Bay Resort on the Musandam Peninsula in Oman. From the Six Senses Shaharut in Israel, guests can set off on desert excursions, while India’s Ranthambore National Park is a venue for adventure at Fort Barwara, a 14th-century fort in Rajasthan that recently opened as a Six Senses resort. Six Senses also opened Six Senses Botanique in Brazil, in an area Neil refers to as “the Hamptons of Sao Paulo.” For a spiritual twist on Spain, travelers can take refuge at the Six Senses Ibiza, set in an area of northern Ibiza popular with shamans and healers.

    Future locations for Six Senses include a remote corner of Iceland, home to waterfalls, ravines, mountains, and even an elf playground! A new hotel in Rome, a short walk away from the Trevi Fountain, is opening this year. Neil also talks about Six Senses’ upcoming projects in the Galapagos and Saudi Arabia, the latter of which he concedes is a controversial topic in the travel industry. 

    Stick around to hear Bruce’s take on Saudi Arabia in the Wallin Wrap-Up, where he invites you to share your opinion on the subject on his Instagram page (@brucewallintravel) or via email, [email protected]. 

    LEARN MORE:

    Six Senses Group

    Six Senses Ibiza in Spain

    Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman

    Six Senses Shaharut in Israel

    Six Senses Botanique in Brazil

    Six Senses Fort Barwara in India

    Bruce on Instagram

    -----------------------------------

    Learn more about the podcast: https://www.curtco.com/travelthatmatters

    Hosted by: Bruce Wallin

    Produced by: AJ Moseley

    Music by: Joey Salvia

    A CurtCo Media Production

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min

About Travel That Matters

From the publisher's feed

Travel That Matters (named one of the 10 Best Podcasts of 2022 by Men’s Journal) explores the world’s most extraordinary travel experiences and destinations with award-winning editor, writer, and luxury travel expert Bruce Wallin. Bruce’s remarkable guests share inspiring, life-shaping stories about their adventures and cultural explorations, as well as travel tips and recommendations for the best destinations, hotels, restaurants, activities, and more. Their travel tales and insights cover everything from where to find delicious foods and ingredients and the most luxurious resorts and hotels, to the most fascinating modern cultural experiences and historical explorations.

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