Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with real travel expert Carol Patterson, from Cruise Holidays of Oakville, to delve into her recent 17-day cruise adventure spanning South America through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale. In this insightful discussion, Carol shares her firsthand experiences and expert insights on a variety of topics, including the vibrant cities of Santiago and Valparaiso in Chile, the rich cultural tapestry of Ecuador and Peru, as well as the tranquil sea days f...
May 31, 2024•21 min
Join us on this episode of RTE-Travel Talk as Ken host sits down with special guest Diane Shelton, owner of Cruise Holidays with Diane, to uncover the enchanting world of themed cruising. Diane shares her recent voyage aboard Celebrity Cruises' Summit for the renowned Smooth Jazz Cruise, offering valuable insights and firsthand experiences. The conversation begins with an overview of the Smooth Jazz Cruise, delving into the unique atmosphere and vibrant energy that defines this musical extravaga...
May 28, 2024•15 min
Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with real travel expert Brenda Case, the owner of Travel Planning by Brenda, to compare two of her go-to cruise lines: Norwegian and Princess Cruise Lines. In this comprehensive comparison, Brenda and Ken provide an in-depth analysis of many aspects of these cruise lines, helping you make an informed decision for your next adventure on the high seas. At the 30,000-foot level, Brenda gives an overview of both Norwegian and Princess Cruise Lines. She d...
May 26, 2024•24 min
Join us on this exciting episode of RTE-Travel Talk as Ken welcomes special guest Christy Fitzharris, the owner and founder of Wheels Up Travel Company, for an insightful discussion on her recent adventures in the world of river cruising. Christy shares her firsthand experiences from ASTA's River Cruise Expo 2024 and provides an exclusive review of her recent voyage with Riverside Luxury Cruises. The conversation delves into the highlights of the ASTA River Cruise Expo, where Christy had the opp...
Apr 29, 2024•41 min
Join RTE-Travel Talk Host Ken as he sits down with travel expert Maria Lindsey of Cruise & Travel Specialist for a review of her 16-day Azamara cruise to Australia and New Zealand. In this insightful discussion, Maria shares her experiences exploring both countries, including the highlights of their journey. From port-intensive excursions to onboard amenities, Maria provides valuable insights for anyone considering a luxury cruise in this region. Learn about the accommodations, dining option...
Apr 22, 2024•27 min
First of a new monthly series! Join us on this episode of Just The Facts as RTE-Travel Talk host Ken welcomes special guest Larry Jackson, a seasoned travel expert from Cruise Holidays of Viera, to explore the evolving landscape of premium cruising. In this insightful discussion, Ken and Larry delve into the recent shifts in the cruising industry and whether it's time for travelers to consider indulging in luxury cruises. The conversation kicks off with reflections on post-COVID disappointments ...
Apr 18, 2024•18 min
In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk, our host sits down with Daniel Hauptfeld, the Marketing Director for Katarina Line, to delve into the world of luxury travel and maritime excellence. Daniel sheds light on his pivotal role and responsibilities within the company, offering insights into the dynamic landscape of Katarina Line. Discover the essence of Katarina Line, a leading name in the realm of private yacht travel experiences in Croatia. Learn about their diverse portfolio, spanning from capti...
Apr 14, 2024•19 min
Join RTE-Travel Talk Ken as he sits down with the Real Travel Expert, Ann-Marie Gaudet from Cruise Holidays Select, to delve into the enchanting world of AmaWaterways' Europe's Rivers and Castles itinerary. Ann-Marie considers this cruise the perfect choice for first-timers or those seeking an unforgettable one and done river cruise experience. In this comprehensive review, Ann-Marie provides an insightful overview of AmaWaterways, renowned for offering some of the best river cruises in Europe. ...
Apr 03, 2024•24 min
Join RTE-Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Barb Chamberlain, a seasoned traveler and representative of Direct Travel, to delve into her recent voyage aboard the newer luxury cruise line, Explora Journeys. In this insightful interview, Barb and Ken cover a range of topics, starting with an overview of what sets Explora Journeys apart in the world of cruising, including details about the exquisite "Explora I" and her luxurious amenities, plus the other ships coming soon They also explore w...
Apr 01, 2024•24 min
Welcome on board Silversea. Join Ken as he welcomes more of the crew and management team of the Silver Shadow to RTE-Travel Talk. Manny Ganesan Room Division Manager, Stefan Ambarus Future Cruise Manager, and Ramona Dragu, Customer Relations Manager sit down with Ken to discuss their roles aboard Silverseas' "Silver Shadow". Why is the Silver Shadow so beloved by guests? The team weigh in with their take on what is it that makes guests return time and again to Silversea. And share their favorite...
Mar 26, 2024•9 min
Celebrity Cruises Panama Canal & Ship Classes REVIEW. Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays of Viera joins Ken live from the Celebrity Beyond for a mini review of Larry's favorite Celebrity Cruise itinerary, an 11 night Southern Caribbean and Partial Panama Canal cruise. Larry details what make this cruise so popular from experiencing a partial transit of the Panama Canal, dipping ones toes in both the Atlantic and Pacific on one cruise and then finding time for a visit to South America and the A...
Mar 21, 2024•26 min
Embark on a voyage with RTE-Travel Talk Host Ken as he takes you on an exclusive tour of Silversea's exquisite cruise ship, the Silver Shadow! 🚢 In this insightful video, Ken delves into the fascinating details about the ship statistics, public areas, dining options, suites, and the ideal guests who make the most of their Silversea experience. 🌟 Ship Statistics: Get ready to be impressed by the impressive statistics of the Silver Shadow. Ken breaks down the ship's size, capacity, and other key...
Mar 15, 2024•10 min
Join RTE Travel Talk host Ken as he sits down with Real Travel Expert Tim Hersh of Cruise Holidays & Tours of Topeka to uncover the top five reasons why river cruising is an unparalleled travel experience. Tim shares insights into the intimate and scenic experiences that river cruises such as AmaWaterways, Avalon, Uniworld and of course Viking River Cruise offer, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the way. Discover the allure of cu...
Mar 08, 2024•13 min
Join RTE-Travel Talk Host Ken as he sits down with Tina Hirr and Jennifer Walters of Cruise and Travel Experts to recount their awe-inspiring voyage to Antarctica aboard the Silver Endeavour with Silversea Cruises! 🚢❄️ In this captivating discussion, Tina and Jennifer share their unforgettable experiences from their expedition cruise, along with an exclusive tour of the Silver Endeavour. 🗺️ Antarctica Expedition Highlights: Get ready for a journey of a lifetime as Tina and Jennifer recount the...
Mar 01, 2024•43 min
Join our host, Ken, in a captivating conversation with Sheri Clarke, Co-owner of PT Travel, as they unravel the allure of Portugal and the Douro River on this exclusive episode of RTE-Travel Talk. 🇵🇹 Portugal: A "Hot" River Cruise Destination Discover why Portugal has become the hottest destination for river cruising, attracting travelers with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. 🚢 Overview of a Douro River Cruise Get a comprehensive overview of what makes Douro River c...
Feb 28, 2024•25 min
Welcome to an exclusive interview with Anthony Meloro, the Director of Business Development Support, Trade & Host Travel Partner Relations at Royal Caribbean International. In this exciting conversation, Anthony gives us an in-depth overview of Royal Caribbean's latest marvel, the "Icon of the Seas." Overview of Icon of the Seas: Anthony begins by providing a captivating overview of the Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest and most innovative cruise ship, designed to provide an unforge...
Feb 04, 2024•25 min
Cruise to Alaska from Vancouver this Summer. In this ultimate Alaska Cruise Guide, Real Travel Expert Barbara Young of Cruise Holidays of Port Coquitlam sits down with Ken to discuss everything related to Alaskan cruises 2024 and 2025. Barb gives an overview of the itineraries available, their differences, and, just who is attracted to Alaska cruises. Barb details the large amount of choice when it come to Alaskan cruise lines but lists her top go- to cruise lines for Alaska with Holland America...
Feb 03, 2024•27 min
Join us on RTE-Travel Talk as our host Ken navigates through the fascinating world of cruising with Real Travel Experts, Rich and Linda Skinner from Cruise Holidays of Woodinville! Rich and Linda share their thoughts and experiences from the much-anticipated inaugural voyage of the Celebrity Ascent. The Skinners dive deep into discussing the state-of-the-art features of the Ascent, revealing insights into what makes this ship a true game-changer in the realm of luxury cruises. They peel back the...
Feb 02, 2024•21 min
Join Ken and Kathy in this eye-opening conversation as they explore why a guided tour is far from the conventional bus tour. Uncover the world of travel with RTE-Travel Talk, where every adventure is a journey beyond expectations! Ken sits down with the Real Travel Expert, Kathy Schmauss, of Cruise Holidays of Viera to delve into the world of guided tours, with a focus on the revolutionary offerings from Globus, Tauck, Abercrombie & Kent, CIE Tours, Cosmos and more. "A Guide to Guided Tours:...
Jan 29, 2024•22 min
Welcome to another exciting episode of RTE-Travel Talk! In this exclusive interview, our host sits down with Tim Amm, the Director for Expedition Sales at Silversea Cruises, to delve into the world of luxury travel and Silversea's extraordinary expeditions. Key Topics Discussed: • Silversea Cruises: Setting the Standard for Luxury Travel • Cruise Tips an Unforgettable Experience • Silversea Cruise Reviews: What Sets Them Apart • All-Inclusive Cruises: Redefining the Travel Experience In-Depth Lo...
Jan 28, 2024•32 min
Tauck, Avalon, & Viking River Cruises comparison. Luxury All Inclusive ,almost all inclusive and Ala carte. Real Travel expert Beth Schulberg, owner of Cruise & Travel Specialists of Lake Oswego Oregon, joins Ken to compare three of her go to river cruise lines: Tauck, Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises, with a view to the inclusivity and options available on each river cruise line. Beth and Ken discuss what sets each river cruise line apart from each other and some of their histo...
Jan 27, 2024•25 min
Embark on a virtual journey with Ken from RTE-Travel Talks as he sits down with Lola Vassiliadis of Cruise Holidays Oakville to explore the enchanting world of Oceania Cruises' latest masterpiece, the Vista. Lola shares her overall impressions of this new ship providing a sneak peek into what makes it a standout in the world of cruising. As the conversation unfolds, Lola takes us through the ship's new areas at, offering a glimpse into the innovative design that sets the Vista apart. Dive into t...
Dec 08, 2023•20 min
Join Ken from RTE-Travel Talks as he sits down with Larry Jackson of Cruise Holidays Viera to dive deep into Larry's recent voyage aboard Oceania Cruises' newest gem, the Vista. Larry begins by sharing what sets the Oceania Vista apart from other cruise experiences, providing a glimpse into the unique features that make this ship a standout in the cruising world. Discover the exceptional aspects of the Vista, offering a comprehensive look at what makes a voyage on this ship extraordinary. Get re...
Dec 04, 2023•21 min
In this exclusive interview, Ken of RTE Travel Talk sits down with special guests Dick Knoll and Amber Droge to explore the enticing world of adult-only cruising. Join us as we delve into the allure of this unique travel experience. Our special guests, Dick Knoll & Amber Droge, travel experts with Cruise Holidays of Topeka share their wealth of knowledge about adult-only cruising. Curious about what exactly adult-only cruising entails? Dick and Amber break down the concept and discuss the tr...
Dec 03, 2023•17 min
Ken sits down with two special guests who are experts in the world of travel—Beth Schulberg, a seasoned travel expert from Cruise and Travel Specialists, and Daniel Hauptfeld, the Marketing Director for Katarina Line. In this insightful interview, Beth shares her recent cruise experience with Katarina Cruise Lines, offering a firsthand account of the unparalleled luxury and adventure they provide. Dive into the discussion as we explore the key benefits of opting for a private yacht cruise, delvi...
Dec 01, 2023•23 min
Join us for an exhilarating episode of RTE-Travel Talk, where Ken sits down with two special guests who are experts in the world of travel—Beth Schulberg, a seasoned travel expert from Cruise and Travel Specialists, and Daniel Hauptfeld, the Marketing Director for Katarina Line. In this insightful interview, Beth shares her recent cruise experience with Katarina Cruise Lines, offering a firsthand account of the unparalleled luxury and adventure they provide. Dive into the discussion as we explor...
Nov 30, 2023•23 min
Tanzania African Safari Review; Susanne Rose real travel expert with Cruise Holidays Oakville joins Ken to review her recent Tanzania safari and Zanzibar beach holiday. Susanne details the private African safari she crafted for herself and six of her guests. The private safari tour began in Arusha, Tanzania followed by transfers to several five safari lodges , daily game drives and wound up with a relaxing stay at Zanzibar's Baraza Resort and Spa. Ken and Susanne discuss all of the highlights wh...
Nov 11, 2023•27 min
Uniworld vs Avalon Waterways REVIEW & COMPARISON Real Travel Expert Shari Marsh joins Ken to discuss two popular river cruise lines. Uniworld and Avalon Waterways. Shari details the differences between the the two cruise lines, the onboard ambiance of the lines, what type of guest to expect and where they sail. Pre and post land extensions play a big part of the river cruise experience, learn how Uniworld and Avalon Waterways handle pre and post. Sometimes choosing the right river cruise com...
Nov 10, 2023•27 min
Avalon Waterways Moselle & Danube river cruise review. Real travel expert and Avalon Waterways specialist, Judy Nickerson of Judy's Luxury Travel joins Ken to review two of her most recent voyages with Avalon Waterways. 10 night Paris to Frankfurt on the Moselle with Avalon Waterways and 10 nights Budapest to Prague with Avalon Waterways. Discover why Judy thinks that Avalon is among the best European river cruises and why Avalon Waterways Moselle is a perhaps a hidden gem of a river cruise....
Nov 09, 2023•23 min
🌴 Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure to the Galapagos Islands with Celebrity Cruises! 🚢 Join travel agent Rosemary Bartello as she takes you on a virtual journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands aboard a Celebrity Cruises expedition. In this exciting video, Rosemary reviews the luxurious amenities, eco-friendly practices, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that set Celebrity Cruises apart in this unique destination. 🐢 Get ready to explore the pristine beaches, encounter exotic wild...
Nov 07, 2023•20 min
