In this episode, we meet Bardia Torabi, General Manager of 7Pines Ibiza.

Bardia shares his extensive journey in the hospitality industry, detailing his experiences and insights into luxury hotel management. He discusses the unique offerings of 7Pines and, in particular, 7Pines Ibiza - including the diverse customer profile, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for clients. He emphasises the importance of creating inclusive team cultures and we loved his "Hotel Mama" culture-building approach.

As always, we finish the episode with Bardia's personal travel insights - including his favourite hotel, favourite city and his perfect vacation.

Find out more about 7Pines at www.7pines.com and visit 7Pines Ibiza at 7pines-ibiza.com.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Bardia Torabi and 7Pines Ibiza
• 01:42 Bardia's Journey in Hospitality
• 03:00 Overview of 7Pines Ibiza
• 05:19 Customer Profile and Experience
• 07:23 Differentiating Luxury Experiences
• 08:20 Engaging with Travel Buyers
• 10:19 Insider Tips for Guests
• 11:58 Memorable Customer Experiences
• 13:46 Creating a Team Culture
• 15:55 Understanding Customer Needs
• 17:36 Encouraging Employee Initiative
• 20:33 Message to Travel Buyers
• 22:05 Engagement with Travel Agents
• 23:19 Undiscovered Travel Gems
• 24:46 Favorite Hotels and Experiences
• 26:54 Favorite Cities to Visit
• 27:46 Perfect Vacation Plans

In this episode, we're talking with Marcello Mangia, CEO and President of Mangia Resorts. Marcello shares insights into the evolution of his family business, the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry, and the changing definition of luxury in travel. He emphasises the importance of authenticity in guest experiences and the company's commitment to training staff to provide exceptional service. Marcello also discusses the unique offerings of Mangia Resorts, including culinary experiences and the company's mission to create memorable vacations for guests.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Marcello Mangia and Mangia Resorts
• 01:32 Marcello's Journey in the Travel Industry
• 04:30 Transformations Post-COVID and Company Growth
• 10:05 Redefining Luxury in Hospitality
• 15:28 Training for Authentic Hospitality Experiences
• 19:57 Showcasing Mangia Resorts' Unique Offerings
• 26:33 Engaging with Travel Buyers and Agents
• 32:06 Demand Trends in the Travel Market
• 34:08 Message to Travel Agents and Buyers
• 36:26 Personal Travel Experiences and Insights

Takeaways

• Marcello Mangia is the CEO of Mangia Resorts, a family business founded in 1973.
• The company has transformed from a small travel agency to a major player in the hospitality industry.
• Post-COVID, the company has grown significantly, becoming five times larger than before.
• Luxury in hospitality is evolving, focusing more on authentic experiences rather than just hardware.
• Training staff to provide authentic and memorable experiences is a key focus for Mangia Resorts.
• The company is investing heavily in upgrading its hotels to five-star standards.
• Culinary experiences are a significant part of the guest experience at Mangia Resorts.
• The demand for travel is changing, with a longer season and evolving customer preferences.
• Marcello emphasizes the importance of creating memories for guests during their vacations.
• The company's motto is to deliver happiness and great value to customers.

In this episode, Kelly Forbes, founder of the A'ARU Collective, shares her extensive background in luxury travel, her transition into hotel sales, and the inspiration behind her company.

A'ARU focuses on curating sustainable luxury travel experiences that prioritise meaningful connections and authentic local interactions.

Kelly discusses the evolving expectations of luxury travellers, the importance of sustainability in the industry, and how A'ARU aims to bridge the gap between luxury and responsible travel.

She emphasises the need for hotels to align their values with those of their customers and the growing demand for experiences that foster connection and well-being.

Takeaways

• Kelly Forbes has 25 years of experience in luxury travel.
• A'ARU Collective was inspired by the need for sustainable luxury experiences.
• The importance of building relationships with customers post-booking.
• Luxury travel is evolving to focus on meaningful experiences.
• Sustainability in travel is about more than just certifications.
• Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic local interactions.
• The demand for multi-generational travel experiences is growing.
• Customers want to align their values with the hotels they choose.
• A'ARU aims to provide a concierge experience that enhances travel.
• Mental health and well-being are becoming key factors in travel choices.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Kelly and the A'ARU Collective
• 02:44 Transitioning to Hotel Sales and Representation
• 07:38 Understanding the Concept of Sustainable Luxury
• 13:17 A'ARU Collective's Unique Offerings
• 18:45 Inspiring Stories of Sustainability in Hospitality
• 23:05 The Evolving Landscape of Travel Consumption
• 27:21 Understanding the Educated Indulger
• 30:37 The Rise of Multi-Generational Travel

Find out more and connect with Kelly via her LinkedIn profile.

In this Journeys Masterclass, Steve Endacott discusses the intersection of disruption, innovation, and luxury travel, emphasising the transformative impact of AI on the industry.

He shares his personal journey in travel, the importance of adapting to technological advancements, and practical steps for luxury operators to enhance customer experience. Steve also explores the future expectations of ultra-high net worth clients and the evolving landscape of SEO in the age of AI, concluding with insights on the necessity of building the right teams for success in the travel sector.

Links:

• Neural River
• AI Steve
• Life's Echo

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Disruption in Luxury Travel
• 00:23 Steve Endacott's Journey in the Travel Industry
• 03:53 The Impact of AI on Luxury Travel
• 10:29 AI as a Co-Pilot in Travel Services
• 16:19 Consultancy Insights for Luxury Operators
• 22:17 The Future of High-End Travel and SEO Challenges
• 28:27 The Role of AI in Personal Legacy
• 31:16 Consultancy and Innovation in Business
• 33:35 Embracing New Technologies
• 36:35 Advice for Entrepreneurs in Luxury Travel
• 39:01 Navigating Disruption and Change

Takeaways:

• AI is set to revolutionise the travel industry, impacting customer service and operational efficiency.
• Luxury travel operators must evolve with technology or risk becoming obsolete.
• Consultancy can provide valuable insights for luxury operators looking to integrate AI.
• The future of customer experience will involve AI as a co-pilot, enhancing service availability and personalisation.
• SEO is changing, and businesses must adapt to new AI-driven search technologies.
• Ultra high net worth clients will expect seamless, personalised service powered by AI.
• Building a strong team is crucial for entrepreneurs in the luxury travel sector.
• Disruption in the travel industry is both exciting and a potential threat to traditional business models.
• The balance between human interaction and AI assistance is key in luxury travel.

In this episode, we are meeting Carmela Piazza from the Grand Hotel et Des Palmes in Palermo.

Carmela shares her career journey from Sicily to the Grand Hotel, detailing her passion for hospitality and the rich history of the hotel.

She discusses the unique experiences available to guests, the impact of the pandemic on the travel industry, and the growing demand for authentic local experiences in Palermo.

Finally, she offers valuable advice for travel advisors and highlights some undiscovered gems in the city.

Connect with Carmela via her LinkedIn profile and find out more about the hotel at despalmes.mangias.com

Takeaways

• The Grand Hotel et Des Palmes has a rich history dating back to the 1870s.
• Guests can experience the Belle Epoque atmosphere at the hotel.
• The hotel features a roof garden restaurant and a historic ballroom.
• Couples and families are the primary clientele at the hotel.
• Memorable experiences include personalised wedding proposals in the Presidential Suite Wagner.
• Post-pandemic, the travel industry has seen a shift towards last-minute bookings.
• Travellers seek genuine local experiences in Palermo, including street food.
• Sicily is a large island with many attractions, encouraging repeat visits.
• Travel advisors should seek local insights to create customised itineraries, and the team at the Grand Hotel can help

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Carmela and the Hotel
• 01:21 Carmela's Journey in Hospitality
• 04:06 The Grand Hotel et Des Palmes: A Historical Overview
• 06:55 Unique Guest Experiences at the Hotel
• 09:40 Post-Pandemic Recovery and Demand Trends
• 12:07 Authentic Experiences in Palermo
• 14:35 Carmela's Travel Insights and Recommendations

In this episode, we're meeting Delia Monfrecola, founder of D Luxury Hospitality, a boutique firm that represents some of Italy’s most prestigious hotels. With nearly 20 years in luxury hospitality, Delia shares her philosophy on what true luxury means, why emotions drive sales, and how hoteliers can connect more deeply with high-net-worth travellers.

Takeaways:

• How Delia’s personal signature inspired the name D Luxury Hospitality

• The evolution from “revenge travel” to emotionally resonant experiences

• Why luxury sales must go beyond rooms and focus on feelings and trust

• The importance of not only targeting ultra-high-net-worth individuals

• Why luxury travel advisors still matter—even in the age of OTAs

• How social media and influencer marketing should be used in hospitality

• The sales/marketing disconnect that hotels must urgently fix

• Delia’s best travel memories, including a hidden island with no roads or internet

Chapters:

• • 00:00 Introduction to Delia and D Luxury Hospitality
  • 01:35 Understanding the Luxury Hospitality Market
  • 04:12 Trends in Luxury Travel Post-COVID
  • 05:48 Targeting High Net Worth Individuals
  • 07:47 The Role of Travel Advisors in Luxury Hospitality
  • 09:58 Emotional Selling in Hospitality
  • 11:48 The Importance of Social Media and Influencer Marketing
  • 14:01 Personal Travel Insights from Delia
  • 19:57 Conclusion

  
  

• You can connect with Delia on her LinkedIn Profile and find out more about her company at www.d-luxuryhospitality.com.

In this conversation, Stella Photi, founder of Wellbeing Escapes, shares her personal journey of overcoming stress and burnout, leading to the creation of her wellness travel company.

She discusses the evolution of the wellness industry, the impact of COVID-19 on mental health, and the importance of tailored experiences for clients.

Stella emphasises the need for authenticity in wellness offerings and the challenges of marketing in a digital age.

The conversation concludes with insights into the future of wellness travel and the significance of exploring undiscovered travel gems.

Takeaways

• Stella experienced burnout despite founding a wellbeing company.
• Wellbeing Escapes focuses on holistic wellness experiences.
• The company tailors packages to meet individual client needs.
• COVID-19 significantly impacted mental health and travel behavior.
• Digital marketing strategies have evolved due to changing consumer attention spans.
• Authenticity is crucial for suppliers in the wellness industry.
• The market for wellness travel has grown post-COVID.
• Clients seek both physical and emotional wellness solutions.
• Stella emphasizes the importance of healthy food options in wellness travel.
• Exploring undiscovered destinations can enhance travel experiences.

Links:

Some of the destinations that Stella mentioned:

• SHA wellness clinic, Spain
• Ananda in the Himalyas

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Overview

• 03:04 Starting a Wellness Travel Company

• 07:08 Catering to the Growing Market of Wellness Travel

• 11:47 Authenticity and Quality in Wellness Offerings

• 18:33 Digital Marketing Strategies for Wellness Travel

• 21:34 Exploring Undiscovered Gems in Travel

• 34:59 Favorite Hotels in the Wellness Travel Industry

• 42:39 Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary: A Personal Favorite for Wellness

• 44:58 Athens: A Vibrant City of Culture and History

• 46:22 The Perfect Vacation: Beaches, Nature, and Ancient Cultures

• 48:33 Contacting Stella and Wellbeing Escapes for More Information

You can connect with Stella on ⁠her LinkedIn Profile⁠ and find her company online at ⁠www.wellbeingescapes.com⁠.

In today's episode, we are meeting Andrea Filippi, Chief Commercial Officer of the Italian hotel management group, Egnazia.

Andrea gives us an overview of his extensive background in luxury hospitality and the unique offerings of Egnazia.

He shares insights into the evolving trends in the hospitality industry, the importance of personal wellbeing, and the significance of immersive experiences for guests.

Andrea also discusses the diverse clientele of Egnazia and highlights some of his favourite destinations and hotels, including the hidden gem of Maratea on the Amalfi Coast and the iconic Borgo Egnazia.

Takeaways

• Andrea's journey in hospitality began with a fascination for meeting people.
• Egnazia focuses on enhancing local culture and providing unique experiences.
• Personal well-being is becoming central to guests' choices in travel.
• Guests are increasingly seeking immersive experiences beyond traditional offerings.
• Traveling during shoulder seasons is a growing trend among clients.
• The average length of stay is increasing as guests seek deeper connections with destinations.
• Experiences that promote local heritage are highly valued by guests.
• Andrea emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in the hospitality industry.
• Maratea is a hidden gem in Italy, offering authentic experiences.
• Borgo Egnazia has hosted high-profile events, making it a sought-after destination.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Andrea and Egnazia
• 03:06 Andrea's Journey in Luxury Hospitality
• 05:59 Overview of Egnazia's Unique Offerings
• 08:51 Understanding the Clientele and Trends
• 11:57 Demand Trends and Guest Experiences
• 15:00 The Importance of Unique Experiences
• 18:01 Andrea's Recommendations and Personal Favourites