What’s driving the surge in luxury travel post-pandemic?

In this episode of Travel Market Life, we sit down with Robin Lawther, Vice President of Expedia TAAP, to uncover the fascinating shifts shaping the future of luxury travel. With nearly 2,900 high-end agencies under his belt, Robin gives us an insider’s perspective on how affluent travellers are redefining luxury in a post-COVID world.

From the rise of "revenge travel" to the growing desire for personalised, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, we explore why high-net-worth individuals are more eager than ever to invest in extraordinary journeys. Robin explains how luxury travellers are turning away from cookie-cutter packages in favour of bespoke itineraries that reflect their unique preferences, making the role of travel agents more critical than ever.

We also explore how luxury hotels are stepping up their game—offering everything from exclusive dining experiences to tailored resort credits that go beyond the typical five-star treatment. Robin shares how these partnerships between agents and hoteliers create seamless, unforgettable trips for clients who demand nothing less than perfection.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

What makes the Independent Hotel Show 2024 a must-attend event for hoteliers and industry leaders? In this special episode, I dive into the key themes, trends, and sessions set to shape this year’s show, happening on October 15th and 16th at the Olympia in London.

I’m joined by industry leaders Jane Pendlebury, CEO of HOSPA; James Clarke, the newly appointed Chairman of MasterInn Holders; and Glenn Wallace, Event Manager at Montgomery Group for HIS. Together, we explore the show’s central theme, "Beyond the Hustle and Bustle," which emphasises not just guest experience but also the well-being of hotel staff and operators in today’s challenging landscape.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

I sit down with Ivana Tagliamonte, the visionary owner of the enchanting Bellport Inn, as we explore how Ivana transformed this historic Long Island property into a modern, tech-savvy retreat that seamlessly combines old-world charm with cutting-edge guest experience technology.

Ivana, driven by a passion for hospitality, shares how, together with her husband, she designed an exceptional guest experience without traditional training. Ivana tells me how the strategic use of technology allows them to manage the inn remotely, ensuring every guest enjoys a seamless stay—from smartphone self-check-ins to a digital guest book complete with local recommendations.

The thoughtful amenities, including a cosy wood-burning hot tub and a self-service snack pantry filled with homemade treats, are only part of the puzzle. Ivana’s commitment to blending technology with a personal touch is what truly shines through.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Can affiliate marketing revolutionise your business strategy?

Patrick Redder, Senior Key Account Partnership Manager at Awin, joins me in exploring affiliate marketing and its remarkable impact on cost reduction and bookings for H-Hotels. Patrick provides an in-depth look at how businesses can partner with various publishers to effectively promote their services, especially within the travel and hospitality sector. He underscores the critical role of selecting the right partners to reach specific audiences, transforming traditional marketing approaches.

Christoph Peppers, Director of E-Commerce at H-Hotels, complements Patrick’s insights by sharing how affiliate marketing has become a cornerstone of their e-commerce strategy, steering away from conventional channels like Google Ads. Christoph shares actionable advice for hoteliers and other industries eager to venture into affiliate marketing, emphasising the practicality of experimentation and proactive engagement to discover what works best.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

How do we genuinely support the mental health and well-being of hospitality employees in a challenging, post-pandemic world?

Sean Wheeler, People and Culture Consultant at Sean Wheeler Consulting Limited believes a holistic approach, flexible working patterns, and the importance of understanding employees' personal lives all create a more enjoyable workplace. He stresses the critical role of internal and external support systems in maintaining mental health and overall well-being.

Jeremy Gibson, Marketing Director at Hospitality Action, shares the specific mental health challenges hospitality workers face today and the vital role of their Employee Assistance Programme.

Craig Prentice, Patron of HA, shares how their Walk for Wellbeing event is a unique initiative to raise awareness and promote inclusivity within hospitality.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

As group travel evolves and solo female travel surges, Judikaela Auffredou, VP of strategy at Cossette, and I explore some of the latest research that reveals how consumer attitudes, preferences, and behaviours regarding travel and tourism are changing and what this means to the industry.

We explore the empowerment and self-discovery driving solo female travellers and examine the rise of slow travel, characterised by longer stays and deeper immersion as an antidote to rushed checklist-style tourism.

For the full research from Cosette on Travel’s Great Divide – download now.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Mary Sue helped pioneer Santa Monica's local and sustainable food scene, popularising the city's farmer's markets. Starting her career peeling garlic and winning a James Beard and Julia Child award, Mary Sue is widely celebrated for her achievements in California and beyond.

Mary Sue created The Women Chefs & Restaurateurs in 1993, a resource for female food professionals that offers scholarships, mentoring and networking opportunities. She also co-founded Regarding Her, a non-profit organisation devoted to the advancement of female food and beverage entrepreneurs in Los Angeles and beyond.

In this episode, we will learn more about her perspective to get more women and leadership in hospitality.

Travel Market Life is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Speaking with Sam Weston, Marketing Director – 80 Days – full service creative and digital marketing agency for hotels and travel, we look into how hotels and travel can tap into the latest consumer trends driving creative marketing.

We explore:

1. Consumer behaviour informing marketing and creative strategies

2. Three trends influencing travel and hospitality marketing: Authenticity, Vibing and F&B

3. How to resonate with guests

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Do you have a story to share about technology, digitalisation or culture changes within the hospitality and travel industry? We'd love to hear what your company is doing and the impact it is having. Please contact us through http://travelmarket.life/