Travel Trends with Dan Christian

• Event Spotlight: State of Business Travel in Canada 2025 with Global Business Travel Association (GBTA)

  Send us a textStep into the world of global business travel as we record live from the Global Business Travel Association's (GBTA) Toronto conference—where industry leaders overseeing a staggering $345 billion in corporate travel spending converge. The business travel sector isn’t just rebounding; it’s thriving. According to GBTA CEO Suzanne Neufang, global travel spending has surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, projected to hit $1.63 trillion in 2025 and exceed $2 trillion by 2028. Despite early doubts about its future, business travel has proven indispensable, with face-to-face meetings remaining a key driver for cultivating relationships and fostering corporate culture.Our discussions uncover remarkable transformations in travel trends. Day trips are nearly obsolete, replaced by longer stays of 3-5 nights, as 40% of business travelers prioritize productivity and better work-life balance. Additionally, "blended travel"—combining business with leisure—has soared, with a 60% rise in adoption compared to pre-pandemic times. We also explore Toronto’s Exhibition Place, a 192-acre hub hosting over 2,100 annual events, as General Manager Laura Purdy highlights its sustainability leadership through LEED certification, renewable energy initiatives, and robust waste diversion programs that make eco-friendly meetings a reality. Heather Neale from Destination Toronto paints the city as a global business hub, celebrated for its multicultural vibrancy and connectivity. With 53% of residents born outside Canada and direct flights from 180 destinations, Toronto offers a unique blend of international appeal and North American convenience. Whether you’re organizing corporate events, managing travel programs, or curious about the forces driving global mobility, this episode offers valuable insights into an industry that builds connections and drives innovation across borders. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at the power of bringing people together.Season 5 Launched Jan 15th. New Episodes Every Weds! Check out our first 4 Seasons. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

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• Special Hospitality Series: From Napa to St. Augustine. Two Stars Share their Learnings

  Send us a textIn this episode of our Special Hospitality Series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide, we spotlight two standout leaders from The Summit in Monaco: Scott Campbell, Director of Revenue Management at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, and Jeff Wielgopolan, Service Director at Meadowood Napa Valley.What does it take to deliver world-class service—when you've never experienced it yourself? This powerful question sits at the heart of five-star hospitality, and both Scott and Jeff offer deep insight into how they lead teams to create authentic, elevated guest experiences that go far beyond expectations.From Hammock Beach’s coastal charm and multi-generational appeal to Meadowood’s remarkable comeback following a devastating fire, both properties reflect a unique commitment to service, storytelling, and soul. Jeff’s past life as a Forbes Travel Guide inspector brings rare perspective to training and standards, while Scott’s philosophy balances innovation with emotional connection.Together, they unpack the secrets to balancing consistency with flexibility, empowering teams to excel, and ensuring that luxury is a deeply personal and unforgettable experience. Tune in for a meaningful look behind the stars of luxury hospitality—and the people who make it shine.The final episode of Season 2 of our Special Hospitality Series with Forbes Travel Guide premieres next Thursday - don’t miss the grand finale!Season 5 Launched Jan 15th. New Episodes Every Weds! Check out our first 4 Seasons. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

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• Growing Global Spanish Speaking Tourism with Civitatis

  Send us a textIn this episode, we’re joined by Ismael García, Chief Marketing Officer of Civitatis, a leading Spanish-language OTA that’s reshaping how millions experience travel. From humble beginnings as a travel blog to becoming a major player offering tens of thousands of activities worldwide, Civitatis has carved out a unique space in the global tourism industry.We discuss into their impressive growth trajectory (including a $50M raise and 30% annual growth), their strategic expansion into new language markets, and why offering 24/7 support in travelers’ native languages has helped earn a 9.1/10 satisfaction rating from over 4 million reviews.Ismael also talks about:How social media is evolving into a search engine for travel inspirationWhy Japan is becoming a top destination for Latin American and European travelersHow curation, sustainability, and local expertise will shape the future of tourismAnd for those building their career in travel? Ismael's advice: find the wave—and ride it.👉 Listen to Transforming Spanish-Speaking  Tourism Through Curation Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupSeason 5 Launched Jan 15th. New Episodes Every Weds! Check out our first 4 Seasons. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

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• Special Hospitality Series: Forbes Travel Guide’s Expansion with ATELIER CX & BOND CO.LAB

  Send us a textWelcome back to episode 8 of our 10-part Special Hospitality Series in collaboration with Forbes Travel Guide! This week, we continue our "Leaders Behind the Stars" spotlight with two groundbreaking announcements from CEO Hermann Elger, shared at The Summit in Monaco.  First, Hermann revealed ATELIER CX, a pioneering consulting studio dedicated to reshaping the customer experience for brands worldwide. Helmed by Silvia Nauta, a luxury hospitality executive with over 20 years of experience, ATELIER CX is poised to revolutionize how brands design and deliver exceptional customer journeys.  We also hear from Alyssa Bushey of BOND CO.LAB, a unique platform fostering impactful collaborations between luxury hotels and ultra-luxury consumer brands. Together, these partnerships are redefining how service providers meet the expectations of modern travelers.  One recurring theme emerged from our conversations with Silvia and Alyssa that challenges traditional hospitality norms: "Take care of your team, and they’ll take care of your guests." This human-centered philosophy resonates deeply in today's landscape, showcasing how internal team bonds and external partnerships are key to creating unparalleled experiences.  For a new generation of luxury consumers, including experience-driven millennials and Gen Z, these innovative approaches deliver the kind of personalized, memorable moments that define true five-star hospitality.  New episodes drop every Thursday! Stay tuned as we feature industry leaders across the globe—from Beverly Hills to the Seychelles.Season 5 Launched Jan 15th. New Episodes Every Weds! Check out our first 4 Seasons. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

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• Lessons in Leadership & Operational Excellence with Ben Hall, CEO, AAT Kings

  Send us a textJoin us for the final instalment in our Guided Touring series as we chat with Ben Hall, CEO of AAT Kings, Australia and New Zealand's leading guided touring provider. This episode dives into the legacy of AAT Kings, a 100-year-old tour company renowned for creating immersive experiences that celebrate authentic cultural connections and sustainability.  What You’ll Discover in This Episode:  How AAT Kings evolved from a transportation service to a leader in guided tours across Australia and New Zealand.  Why modern guided tours are far from inflexible, featuring customizable options and exclusive, hard-to-access experiences.  The unique value local guides bring with personal anecdotes, historical context, and a deep understanding of the culture.  Highlighted Indigenous experiences that connect travelers to the world’s oldest continuous culture, dating back over 60,000 years.  Small group adventures with Inspiring Journeys, offering access to remote and pristine destinations.  Sustainability efforts focusing on local community support, wildlife conservation, and environmental restoration.  How technology enhances tours, with guest portals that allow travelers to personalize their journeys.  The vast scale of Australia and how guided tours address logistical challenges for travelers who often underestimate distances.  Immersive cultural experiences that connect travelers with local families, farms, and Indigenous communities.  The role of travel directors, carefully selected for their expertise, people skills, and passion for sharing the local culture with guests.  Enjoy a fascinating discussion that highlights the innovation behind modern guided touring and explore how AAT Kings provides meaningful, sustainable, and memorable travel experiences.  👉 Listen to Lessons in Leadership & Operational Excellence Now🔥 Season 5 Title Sponsors: TravelAI, Stay22, Propellic, Flight Centre, Collette, Flywire, Traveltek and Protect GroupSeason 5 Launched Jan 15th. New Episodes Every Weds! Check out our first 4 Seasons. https://www.traveltrendspodcast.com/

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