The Last Resort

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Rebecca Bullen, a Smartflyer-affiliated luxury travel advisor and self-described Italy obsessive, about her recent visit to Collegio alla Querce, an Auberge Resorts Collection property in Florence, Italy. Bullen makes the case for why this property deserves a spot in every Italy specialist’s toolkit, from its surprisingly accessible hillside location just 10 minutes from the city center to its sizable swimming pool, a rarity in Florence. She also shares her broader read on Italy demand, the off-season opportunity she’s increasingly pitching to clients and the upcoming Italian openings she’s watching most closely, from a Rocco Forte in Naples to Four Seasons taking over the Danieli in Venice. Currently in its fourth season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The 4th episode of the fourth season will be posted on April 20th. Further resources: Rebecca Bullen Travel Collegio Alla Querce, Auberge Collection Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Lauren Pronger, president and founder of Well Inspired Travels, about her multiple visits to SHA Mexico, the SHA brand’s first property in the Americas and what Pronger calls her “wellness Disneyland.” Pronger breaks down what sets SHA Mexico apart from other luxury wellness resorts, from its diagnostic, science-backed programming and signature hydrotherapy circuit to its deeply personalized approach. She shares insights into who makes an ideal SHA guest, how she curates experiences for her high-profile clientele, including professional athletes, and why the property’s proximity to major U.S. cities makes it a gamechanger for the Americas wellness travel market. Currently in its fourth season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The 3rd episode of the fourth season will be posted on March 23rd. Further resources:  Lauren Pronger Well Inspired Travel SHA Mexico  Hotels tap healthy demand for luxe longevity offerings (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Erica Gragg, lead travel designer and founder of Escape Artists: Luxury Travel Advisors, about her recent visit to New York’s Hudson Valley and the Berkshires in Massachusetts, including her stay at the Prospect Berkshires. Hudson-based Gragg shares insider perspective on the region and discusses how the Prospect Berkshires and other properties deliver nature-focused experiences without sacrificing comfort. She also highlights a few favorite Hudson-area restaurants, explains which travelers might find these accessible destinations worth the journey from New York City and Boston, and shares observations on how the arrival of major brands like One&Only and Six Senses will shape the Hudson Valley's future. Currently in its fourth season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The 2nd episode of the fourth season will be posted on February 23rd. Further resources: Erica Gragg Escape Artists: Luxury Travel Advisors Prospect Berkshires Glasco BLCK Creek Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Mark Telio, owner of Vancouver-based Entree Destinations, about his recent visit to the Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest.  Telio talks about what makes this intimate nine-cabin property stands out among luxury wilderness lodges, from its signature helicopter salmon fishing experiences to its innovative floating docks with wood-burning saunas. He also discusses his process for managing soft adventure expectations, navigating the destination’s seasonality and crafting mountain-to-ocean itineraries that may start in Whistler and end with seaplane arrivals at Nimmo Bay.  Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The ninth episode of the third season will be posted on September 8. Further resources:  Marc Telio Entree Destinations Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort Luxury fit for royalty on British Columbia trip (Travel Weekly)  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Philippa (Pip) Clarke, head of Caribbean for U.K.-based Hummingbird Travel, about her recent visit to Curtain Bluff in Antigua.  Clarke reveals why this Antiguan resort’s approach to all-inclusive luxury—complete with multiple sommeliers, rotating a la carte menus and pickleball—keeps families and couples returning year after year. She also discusses topics like dinnertime dress codes and how Curtain Bluff successfully maintains these types of traditional elements, while continuing to evolve with changing guest expectations. Additionally, Clarke shares her process for matching clients to the right Caribbean property, especially when working with those “vague inquiries” that simply ask for “all-inclusive in the Caribbean.” Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The eighth episode of the third season will be posted on August 11. Further resources:  Philippa (Pip) Clarke Hummingbird Travel Curtain Bluff Renovations planned for Antigua's Curtain Bluff resort (Travel Weekly)  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Michelle McSorley, a concierge travel advisor with Favorite Grampy Travels, and Jamie Biesiada, a Travel Weekly senior editor and host of the Trade Secrets podcast, about their recent visits to the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel at Universal Studios Resort. McSorley and Biesiada share why the luxury property’s direct access to Universal Epic Universe is a gamechanger, as well as offer details on the hotel’s park views, dining options and themed How To Train Your Dragon Kids’ Suites. The pair also touch on how Universal Studios’ latest hotel and park expansions may change guest patterns, potentially extending Universal stays from quick add-ons to full-week experiences.  Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The seventh episode of the third season will be posted on July 14. Further resources:  Michelle McSorley Favorite Grampy Travels Facebook Nova Luxury Travels Jamie Biesiada Travel Weekly Trade Secrets Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel at Universal Studios Resort Epic Universe: A new era for Universal Orlando Resort  (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Amy Nidds, a travel consultant with VWT by Chase Travel, about her recent visit to the Hotel Balzac in Paris. Nidds reveals why this intimate 58-room hotel with Eiffel Tower views delivers an experience that feels like “your own apartment in Paris,” complete with a concierge team willing to go the extra mile to secure “impossible” restaurant reservations. She confirms that luxury European travel demand remains “crazy,” with clients not only booking Paris but often pairing the city with stays in Provence or Normandy. Nidds also shares her must-do recommendations, including the 30-seat Hemingway Bar and where to find the best chocolate mousse in Paris. Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The sixth episode of the third season will be posted on June 9th. Further resources: Amy Nidds White Glove Getaways Instagram Hotel Balzac Paris Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Limor Decter, a luxury travel/lifestyle advisor and writer with Embark Beyond, about her recent visit to the Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection in Los Cabos, Mexico. Decter dishes on private beach dinners, whale watching from ocean-facing balconies and personalized service that she said makes her feel like she’s “coming home.” Plus, get her perspective on Cabo’s evolution as a luxury destination, with insights on seasonal pricing, flight connectivity improvements and the market’s expanding appeal beyond just sea and sand. Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The fifth episode of the third season will be posted on May 12. Further resources: Limor Decter Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection Esperanza unveils a feast of culinary experiences (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Julie Boller, a luxury travel advisor with Atlas Wander Travel, about her recent visit to the Sheen Falls Lodge in Co. Kerry, Ireland. Bowler talks about the property’s dramatic landscapes, spacious accommodations perfect for couples and multi-generational families and diverse experiences, from falconry to helicopter tours of the Ring of Kerry. She also shares insider tips on how to craft the perfect 10- to 14-day Irish itinerary and chats about why her clients are consistently booking back-to-back Irish adventures. Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The fourth episode of the third season will be posted on April 14. Further resources: Atlas Wander Travel Sheen Falls Lodge A toast to the Wine Cellar at Ireland's Sheen Falls Lodge (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Anna Gilbert, founder and lead travel designer at Upannaway, about her recent visit to Angama’s luxury safari lodges and camps in Kenya. Gilbert shares her first impressions of Angama’s flagship Angama Mara lodge, more recently opened Angama Amboseli property and the brand’s intimate Angama Tented Camp. She shares details on some of her most memorable moments, including a peaceful hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara and getting the chance to bond with her guides over Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton songs. She also offers candid insights about Angama’s most distinctive features, from the brand’s exceptional accommodations to their unique photography studio. Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The third episode of the third season will be posted on March 10. Further resources: Anna Gilbert Upannaway Angama New Angama Amboseli safari lodge pays homage to its 'Super Tusker' neighbors (Travel Weekly) Angama plans tented safari lodge in the shadow of Kilimanjaro (Travel Weekly)  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Sarah Groen, owner and CEO of Bell & Bly Design, about her recent visit Lake Como’s Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Groen shares details on the historic property’s iconic floating pool, Riva boats and Michelin-worthy dining experiences, while also explaining what makes the Grand Hotel Tremezzo distinct from its sister Lake Como property, Passalacqua. She also offers insider tips on prime shoulder season timing, unique alternatives to water activities and how her clients prefer to combine Lake Como with other European stops. Currently in its third season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The second episode of the third season will be posted on February 10. Further resources: Sarah Groen Bell & Bly Design Luxury Travel Insider Grand Hotel Tremezzo Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks with Amber Rose Powers, a luxury travel advisor with Fora X, about her recent visits to the Mandarin Oriental Canouan and Soho Beach House Canouan. Powers takes listeners to Canouan, a hidden Caribbean gem where “billionaires go to get away from millionaires.” She shares her experience at two distinctly different properties: the ultra-luxe Mandarin Oriental, with its marble suites and butler service, and the laid-back yet sophisticated Soho Beach House, both of which have recently reopened after Hurricane Beryl. Powers shares highlights from her trip, from communal “jetty dinner” experiences to catamaran excursions through the nearby Tobago Cays and talks about how these two Canouan resorts successfully blend authentic Caribbean charm with world-class hospitality. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The first episode of the third season will be posted on January 13. Further resources: Amber Rose Powers Mandarin Oriental Canouan  Soho Beach House Canouan  Hurricane Beryl leaves more than destruction in its wake (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Abbey Meyer, CEO of Missouri-based Sky High Travel, about her recent visit to the Hotel Xcaret Arte near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Meyer describes how the adults-only Xcaret all-inclusive stands apart with its art-filled interiors, diverse cuisine and what she boldly claims is “the most incredible spa in all of Mexico.” While the resort commands premium pricing, she also explains how the included access to immersive cultural activities and Xcaret’s surrounding eco-parks justify the investment for adventurous travelers. Jelski and Meyer also talk broader luxury all-inclusive demand in Mexico, what the current pricing picture looks like and whether all-inclusive supply is starting to outpace demand. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The 12th episode of the second season will be posted on December 9. Further resources:  Abbey Meyer Instagram Sky High Travel Hotel Xcaret Arte Grupo Xcaret's Rodrigo Motavelazco on working with advisors (Travel Weekly)  Grupo Xcaret has a new booking tool for travel advisors (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Jill Albino of Jill Albino Travel and Gabrielle Brechner of Watch Our Step Travel about their recent visit to the Botania Relais & Spa on the Italian island of Ischia. Albino and Brechner share details on the property's intimate atmosphere, unique villa-style accommodations and standout culinary experiences, including a “dessert pasta” that’s prepped tableside. They also highlight Ischia's potential as a less crowded alternative to popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast, as well as discuss the island’s accessibility, with its proximity to Naples and Capri making it an attractive addition to a broader Italian itinerary. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The 11th episode of the second season will be posted on November 11. Further resources:  Jill Albino Instagram Gabrielle Brechner Instagram  Botania Relais & Spa  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Julie Shotmeyer, CEO of Jet Set Getaways, about her recent visit to the The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island in Northeastern Florida. Shotmeyer shares her insights on the resort's beachfront location, expansive accommodations and Club Level—which she says is the best Ritz-Carlton Club Level she’s ever experienced. She also talks about the property's diverse appeal for various traveler types and why it’s a potential fit for clients looking for an alternative to Florida destinations like Naples or West Palm Beach. Shotmeyer caps off the chat with an update on current leisure travel trends and the U.S. destinations her clients are buzzing about. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The tenth episode of the second season will be posted on October 14. Further resources: Julie Shotmeyer Jet Set Getaways Instagram The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Pamela Schein Murphy, a Fora-affiliated luxury travel advisor and founder of The Wandrist, about her recent visit to the Rosewood Schloss Fuschl near Salzburg, Austria. Schein Murphy dishes on the newly opened lakefront property, which she describes as having an “adult summer camp” feel. She also raves about Lake Fuschl’s Caribbean-like turquoise waters and the property’s San Tropez-esque beach club, which serves up an especially tasty octopus. Schein Murphy also talks about why the Rosewood Schloss Fuschl offers a refreshing alternative to Europe's overcrowded hotspots—and might be the perfect option for clients seeking to escape the continent's scorching summer temps. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The ninth episode of the second season will be posted on September 9. Further resources: Pamela Schein Murphy The Wanderist Instagram  Rosewood Schloss Fuschl  Historical lakefront hotel will become Rosewood's second in Austria (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Fora-affiliated advisors Nancy Deane, Kim Hannum, Pamela Schein Murphy, Claudia Riegelhaupt and Louisa Vann, who have joined forces to attend fam trips together as part of a “fam pod.” The quintet recently visited the U.K., combining a London trip with a stay at Estelle Manor, a 108-room country estate and private members’ club in Oxfordshire. The group shares a few insights on their London experiences, which included site visits to properties within the Firmdale Hotels and Maybourne portfolios, before diving into their stay at Estelle Manor, which they say puts a “really fresh and fun” on the country estate concept. They talk about property's Bridgerton-esque charm, its adults-only main house and how the property’s membership club component elevates the guest experience. The advisors also delve into the benefits of traveling together as part of a fam pod, and how their established group dynamic allows for more focused and productive familiarization trips. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The eighth episode of the second season will be posted on August 12. Further resources:  Nancy Deane The Deane’s List Instagram Kim Hannum Instagram Pamela Schein Murphy The Wanderist  Instagram Claudia Riegelhaupt Instagram Louisa Vann Louisa Vann Travel Instagram   Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Photo of Estelle Manor courtesy of Mark Anthony Fox Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Last Resort: Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Brandon White, owner of Share the Magic Travel, to talk about his recent visit to the Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. White shares the inside scoop on the recently opened 301-room all-inclusive, set amid mountains, black sand beaches and lush rainforests. He also talks about the property’s many amenities—including its 11 dining venues and multiple pool areas—and why St. Vincent's off-the-beaten-path allure makes it a prime spot for adventure-loving couples. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The seventh episode of the second season will be posted on July 8. Further resources: Brandon White Share the Magic Travel Instagram  Facebook Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 'Sandals 2.0' is embodied at St. Vincent all-inclusive (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Megan McCaffrey-Guerrera, owner of Bella Vita Travels, to talk about her recent visit to the Cali Mykonos in Greece. McCaffrey-Guerrera talks about why the 40-suite Cali Mykonos offers plenty of romantic, off-the-beaten path charm, and why she’s confident that once she gets clients in the door, “they're going to go back every year.” McCaffrey-Guerrera also shares an update on Greece travel demand this summer and makes mention of a few up-and-coming Greek hotspots that are quickly becoming traveler favorites. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The sixth episode of the second season will be posted on June 10. Further resources: Megan McCaffrey-Guerrera Bella Vita Travels  Instagram  Facebook Cali Mykonos Hotels and resorts dive into boating amenities (Travel Weekly) Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski talks to Mark Gerling, owner of Gerling Travel, and Sarah Bogaczyk, owner of Connections Luxury Travel, to talk about their recent visit to The Shore Club Turks & Caicos. Gerling and Bogaczyk talk about why the Long Bay Beach property is a great fit for everyone from families to couples, as well as larger multigenerational groups. The pair also discuss why the resort’s villa product offers plenty of “wow factor,” as well as share a few tips on how to maximize a client’s stay at Shore Club Turks & Caicos with a luxury yacht add-on and shuttle service to a neighboring sister property. Currently in its second season, The Last Resort is a monthly hospitality-focused podcast brought to you by Travel Weekly. In each episode, travel advisors share their first impressions of the last resort they visited. The fifth episode of the second season will be posted on May 13. Further resources: Mark Gerling Gerling Travel Facebook Sarah Bogaczyk LinkedIn Instagram The Shore Club Turks & Caicos  Want to share feedback on the last resort you visited? Email us: TheLastResort@travelweekly.com Theme Song: Beachfront Celebration by Kevin MacLeod License See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.