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Ever wondered what truly sets apart an elite travel experience from the ordinary? Could it be the stories shared by a seasoned insider, a 25-year veteran who's witnessed the evolution of luxury firsthand? In this Wanderlust Wednesday episode, Nick and Wil welcome the esteemed Shanel Knight, Director of National Accounts and Business Development at Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Peel back the layers of the travel industry with Shanel's infectious enthusiasm, as she reveals her "aha moment" stemming not from personal sales triumphs, but from the success stories of her partners. Discover the surprising breadth of the travel market, where everyone can have a "nice slice" of the pie. Learn how diverse skill sets seamlessly integrate into the travel world, fostering connections and bringing communities together through shared passions, even extending to partnerships with Formula One and Aston Martin. Forget the stereotype of the "old and rich"; Regent's number one persona is the active explorer, a working, affluent individual who knows they deserve the finer things in life.

Hear the heartwarming tale of a young girl's impromptu ballroom dancing lessons onboard, a testament to the exceptional, heartfelt service that can shape lifelong passions. Shanel challenges the conventional understanding of luxury, suggesting "elite travel" might be a more fitting term for an experience that transcends mere opulence and focuses on exceeding expectations. With over 60% repeat guests, the consistency and strength of the Regent brand speak volumes. 

Prepare to have your perception of cruising forever changed as Shanel unveils the secrets to creating truly unforgettable and deeply personal travel journeys. Are you ready to unlock a world of travel where every detail is meticulously crafted for the discerning explorer?

Key Takeaways:

• The travel industry offers a large and diverse landscape where "when one wins, we all win". Individuals from various backgrounds can successfully transition into the industry by leveraging their unique skill sets and networks.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides an all-inclusive luxury experience that is not stuffy or pretentious but rather focuses on value and exceeding expectations. The brand caters to a diverse clientele, with the "active explorer" being the primary persona – affluent individuals who are still working and appreciate the finer things in life. 
• Popular destinations for Regent cruisers include Alaska and the Mediterranean. Alaska is a top choice for first-time Regent guests due to the ease of disembarkation and the included excursions. A significant aspect of Regent's appeal is the high percentage of repeat guests (over 60%), demonstrating strong brand loyalty and consistency.
• Dining on Regent is an integral part of the luxury experience, with an emphasis on "epicurean perfection". While Oceania is known as the "foodies cruise line," Regent offers a variety of exceptional dining venues.
• Regent offers unlimited, all-inclusive excursions as a key differentiator. While these are highly popular and can be booked in advance, high demand can sometimes lead to challenges in securing specific options.

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