208 episodes
Luxury Travel Insider Sarah Groen
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- Society & Culture
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4.8 • 83 Ratings
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Do you love travel? Are you always searching for the absolute best experiences?
Join us each week for an insightful chat with some of luxury travel’s most iconic people. We’ll interview travel experts like Robert Bowe who has been part of the guest experience at Ashford Castle for 33 years; Jamie Gaymer, the lead conservation manager at an ultra-luxe safari lodge; or the Owners and General Managers of some of the world’s top hotels like Amangiri, Canaves Oia, and Zannier Hotels.
You’ll leave each episode with an Insider appreciation for new destinations, luxury travel, and all the heart that goes into creating these magical experiences.
Luxury Travel Insider is hosted by Sarah Groen, an expert in luxury travel. Sarah has traveled to 100 countries and all 7 continents, is a contributing travel columnist for CEO World Magazine, and is the owner of Bell & Bly Travel, a top travel advising firm working with executives and entrepreneurs.
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Faroe islands | Expert Panel: Peace & Quiet (and Puffins!)
Today we’re headed well off the beaten path, to the area nestled between the North Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea. The secluded Faroe Islands boast rugged cliffs, emerald green landscapes, puffins galore, and a vibrant local culture for such a small population.
You might come here for the hiking or the bird life, but what you’ll leave with is a sense of peace, having experienced the luxurious feeling of being on the edge of the world.
Our guests today are our partners in the region, Kristin Björnsdóttir and Joaquin Linares Cordoba who are experienced in leading travelers to discover these islands. We chat about everything from Viking legends to Michelin Starred restaurants, to bird life.
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Austria | Expert Panel: Culture, Coffee, Cuisine, and Countryside
Today we’re headed to a small country, nestled in the heart of Europe. Austria surprises and then charms its visitors with stunning Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and elegant imperial architecture.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect apple strudel, want to hike in hills filled with the “Sound of Music,” or experience the famous coffee culture, operas, or Viennese Balls - Austria has something for almost everyone.
My guests today are Thomas Bachinger, our expert on all things Vienna; Christoph Reiter from the Salzburg region, and Michael Bode who is a cheese sommelier and owns a wine company in the Alpine region! The four of us chat on everything from Austrian wine, to off the beaten path areas of the country, to what inspired all these amazing composers who spent time in the region.
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Nepal | Sangita Einhaus Shrestha: Dwarika’s, Where Guests are Gods
Today we visit the magical country of Nepal. Known for soaring mountain peaks, gorgeous valleys, and the warmth of its people, Nepal is a country that captures hearts and minds like no other.
My guest today is Sangita Shrestha, owner of Dwarika’s Hotel and Dwarika’s Resort, properties that have a deep purpose and mission to preserve Nepal’s cultural heritage.
Sangita and I chat about Nepali hospitality, her work with children after the earthquake, and some fantastic experiences for guests.
Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, Covac Global.
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New Zealand | Wharekauhau
Today we’re headed back to New Zealand to uncover a hidden gem in the Wellington region. This southernmost part of the North Island is known for its elegant villages, boutique wineries, rural farmlands.
My guest today is Richard Rooney, the GM of luxury lodge Wharekauhau. The lodge is set right on the banks of Palliser Bay and brings together all the elements of old New Zealand. The miles of rugged coastline and the working sheep farm will take you back to simpler times and remind you what’s good about life.
Richard and I talk about everything from unique wine tastings, to offroading adventures, to enjoying the amazing food right out of the sea.
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Ireland | Adare Manor
Today we’re winding our way down an idyllic country road in Ireland to the famed Adare Manor. Set in a charming village of thatched cottages, blooming rose gardens, and cobblestone streets, this jewel of County Limerick will have you wanting to come back over and over again.
Joining me today is Brendon O’Connor, the General Manager of Adare Manor, which recently won the Conde Nast award for Best Resort in Europe. Brendan and I chat about everything from the potato famine to genealogy, to hidden secrets of the Manor, and the incredible local food and culture. If you’ve ever wanted to know more about Western Ireland, this is the episode for you!
Learn more at www.luxtravelinsider.com
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The Maldives | Velaa Private Island: Hospitality Done Differently
Today we’re headed back to the Indian Ocean to visit a slice of the Maldives. This archipelago, spanning 500 miles north to south, is the stuff dreams are made of.
Landing in the Noonu Atoll, we’re diving into all things Velaa Private Island resort with its General Manager, Wayne Milgate.
One of the most luxurious retreats in the world, Velaa Private Island boasts exclusive over-water villas, a Troon golf course, water park for kids, and some of the friendliest service you’ll find anywhere.
Wayne tells incredible stories of the founding of Velaa, the staff going above and beyond for guests, lavish holiday parties, and incredible experiences.
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Customer Reviews
Wanderlust
Awesome podcast for the traveler or aspiring tourist! This is a little more business-oriented than some of the other travel podcasts out there. But Sarah makes it so fun & fascinating to learn about the industry and its many characters. Can’t wait to see where she takes us next!
What luxury?
luxury? Hardly. Host is a bit too giggly to listen to for more than 5-10
Always inspiring interviews
Very well conducted, in a personal way, I always feel like I am right there in the room. I have discovered many destinations, hoteliers and professionals of the tourism industry that motivate me in continuing in this industry with a purpose. Thank you Sarah.