In this episode of MASTers of Travel, John Werner, President & COO, MAST Travel Network sits down with Kevin Carter, Director Of Strategic Partnerships at Collette, one of the longest-running tour operators in the travel industry. Join us as we explore how Collette crafts immersive travel experiences across the globe, from cultural deep dives to culinary adventures.

We discuss the evolution of guided travel, how Collette supports travel advisors, and what makes their tours stand out in a competitive market. Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just curious about the world of group travel, this episode offers valuable insights into the art of designing unforgettable journeys.

🌍 Topics include:

- The Collette difference in guided travel
- Trends in group travel
- How travel advisors can work with Collette
- Behind-the-scenes of tour development

Tune in and get inspired to elevate your travel knowledge with expert insights from one of the industry's most trusted names.

John Werner, President & COO, MAST Travel Network and Michael Weldon, Director, National, Key & Strategic Accounts, HX | Hurtigruten Expeditions discuss expedition cruising, highlighting unique experiences, educational opportunities, and diverse destinations.

Highlights

• HX specializes in unique expedition cruises to remote destinations.
• The company has over 60 years of experience in Antarctic expeditions.
• Onboard scientists enhance guest experience through education and hands-on activities.
• Unique experiences like camping on ice provide adventurous options for travelers.
• Culinary offerings focus on local provisioning for fresh, diverse dining experiences.
• HX supports solo travelers with no single supplement on select sailings.
• Commitment to sustainability and environmental initiatives sets HX apart.

John Werner, COO, MAST Travel Network and Archy Arushanyan, National Director, Globus Family of Brands discuss their new small group discovery tours, emphasizing unique & immersive travel experiences.

🌟 Small Group Advantage: Smaller groups allow for unique experiences and deeper connections, making travel more personal and memorable.

🏞️ Unique Destinations: Globus focuses on lesser-known destinations like Georgia and Armenia, providing travelers with off-the-beaten-path experiences.

🍷 Culinary Focus: Food plays a crucial role in travel, with local culinary experiences that allow travelers to taste and learn about regional cultures.

🚍 Comfortable Travel: Larger vehicles accommodate fewer passengers, ensuring comfort and convenience with amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.

📚 Cultural Immersion: Tours prioritize cultural engagement, offering historical insights and connecting travelers to local traditions.

💡 Expert Guides: Local guides not only provide knowledge but also foster connections, enriching the travel experience through storytelling and personal interaction.

🤗 Lasting Relationships: Shared travel experiences often lead to friendships, creating a community among travelers that enhances future journeys.