No Tourists Allowed - An Insider's Guide to Travel

Are phone calls ruining in-flight etiquette? Discover the best travel books for 2025 and new EU entry delays on the No Tourists Allowed travel podcast.Episode Resources:Rick Steves’ Hippie Trail MemoirOfficial EU Entry-Exit System (EES) InformationIATA Jet Fuel Price MonitorBritish Airways In-Flight Voice and Video Call NewsOfficial Website for Livraria Lello BookstoreImagine trying to sleep on an overnight flight while the person next to you is screaming into their phone on speaker—thanks to new airline Wi-Fi policies, this nightmare might soon become a reality. In this episode of No Tourists Allowed, Mike and James unpack the latest travel industry shifts to help you navigate your upcoming vacations with ease and confidence. Tune in to discover the best new travel literature to inspire your next getaway and learn how global economic changes are directly impacting your travel budget.The guys dive into a lively debate over British Airways' controversial decision to allow in-flight voice calls, exploring how rapidly evolving technology is clashing with traditional travel etiquette. They also break down the hidden reasons behind skyrocketing airfares, the truth about cruise line fuel surcharges, and what the European Union’s new biometric entry-exit system means for your summer holiday delays. Along the way, James shares his top travel book recommendations for 2025 to fuel your wanderlust, while Mike highlights the absurd inconsistencies of global airport security rules. You'll have to listen to find out how a simple pair of nail clippers somehow became a major threat at the TSA checkpoint. Don't miss your chance to win a free all-inclusive vacation to Mexico by entering our massive giveaway at notouristsallowed.com. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode!

Discover if Punta Cana all-inclusive resorts are worth it, how agentic AI in travel empowers advisors, and essential global travel safety updates.Episode Resources:Official Website for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta CanaUpcoming Moon Palace Punta Cana ExpansionDetails on the InteleJoe Agentic AI ToolU.S. State Department Travel AdvisoriesEnter the GiveawayWhether you're dreaming of a sprawling Caribbean resort or wondering if artificial intelligence should plan your next vacation, the global travel landscape is shifting faster than ever. In this episode of *No Tourists Allowed*, Mike and James break down the reality of mega all-inclusive resorts, the explosive rise of agentic AI in travel booking, and how current geopolitical events are reshaping global flight routes. Tune in to discover how to stretch your vacation dollar, confidently navigate international safety advisories, and uncover hidden gem destinations away from the typical tourist traps. The guys kick things off with a firsthand review of the enormous Hard Rock Resort in Punta Cana, sharing expert tips on balancing all-inclusive convenience with authentic local culture. The conversation then pivots to a massive industry debate: will the new wave of "agentic AI" finally replace human travel advisors, or is the ultimate travel planning strategy a hybrid of futuristic tech and human empathy? They also unpack how Middle Eastern conflicts and localized weather events in Jamaica are impacting the broader travel industry. You'll have to listen to hear their top recommendations for safe, off-the-beaten-path travel escapes—and learn exactly which popular Mexican tourist city you should cross off your itinerary this season.Don't forget to check enter our exclusive giveaway for a free three-night vacation to a luxury all-inclusive resort in Mexico! Hit subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and please leave us a review to help other wanderlust-driven travelers find the show.

Discover authentic European travel tips for Cologne and Vienna. We cover Kölsch beer, smart walking tour apps, and finding local eats without the tourist traps.Episode ResourcesCologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) Official WebsiteVotivkirche Vienna Official WebsiteCasa Labra Madrid - Historic Tapas BarTheFork - Restaurant ReservationsBeli App - Restaurant Lists & SocialFITUR - International Tourism Trade FairFresh off a whirlwind four-city trip, Mike is back to share his recent adventures through Germany and Austria, proving you don't need a crowded tour bus to see the sights. In this episode, we explore the nuances of authentic European travel, moving past the typical guidebooks to find the real culture hidden in plain sight. From navigating the massive spires of Cologne to mastering the efficient train systems of Vienna, we break down how to explore these historic cities on your own terms.We dig into the specific tools and experiences that elevate a trip from standard to spectacular, including the unique rules of drinking Kölsch beer and the best ways to utilize public transport. You’ll learn about MapView, a game-changing app for self-guided digital walking tours that lets you ditch the umbrella-holding guides. We also debate how to find memorable dining experiences—and avoid rookie mistakes like eating Italian food in Bangkok—by utilizing apps like The Fork and Beli to uncover local gems.If you are an independent traveler who wants to maximize your time abroad without feeling like a typical tourist, this conversation is essential listening. We also recap the massive FITUR trade show in Madrid and drop the first set of clues for our upcoming all-inclusive Mexico vacation giveaway. Tune in to upgrade your travel tech stack and learn how to navigate Europe's best cities like a local.

Have you ever dreamed of floating down the Danube, exploring medieval towns and world-class cities from the comfort of a luxury ship? In this episode of No Tourists Allowed, we pull back the curtain on the complete European river cruise experience, giving you a firsthand account of what it's truly like to travel from Budapest to Vienna. We're also tackling major travel news as American Airlines sparks outrage by changing its loyalty program, and we’re revealing an insider tool that will completely change how you book flights with points. Is a river cruise right for you, and is American devaluing its most loyal customers? Let’s dive in.Join hosts and travel industry veterans Mike Putman and James Ferrara as they share their latest adventures and insights. James has just returned from an incredible AmaWaterways cruise along the Danube River and provides a full review of the journey. He details the intimate, upscale atmosphere of the small ship, the all-inclusive shore excursions in historic ports, and the incredible regional food both on and off the vessel. From the stunning architecture of Budapest to the musical history of Vienna and a side trip to Salzburg, you'll learn exactly why this is one of the best ways to see Europe. This segment offers a deep dive into the river cruise lifestyle and a direct comparison of AmaWaterways vs Viking, helping you decide which line fits your travel style.But that's not all. The hosts also discuss a quick business trip to Georgia, sharing their top picks for the best restaurants Savannah has to offer. Hear their authentic reviews of the historic 18th-century mansion restaurant, The Pink House, and the chic Art Deco supper club, The Grey, located in a restored 1930s bus station. In travel news, we break down the controversial decision by American Airlines to stop awarding points on certain fares, exploring the impact of the American Airlines Basic Economy loyalty points change and what it means for frequent flyers. And for our travel hack of the episode, Mike reveals Seats.Aero, a powerful award travel search tool that makes it easy to find amazing deals on business and first-class flights using your points. We’ll show you how to find award travel deals you never thought possible. Finally, stick around as we discuss the recovery of Jamaica's tourism after the recent hurricane and announce the lucky winner of our luxury Alaska cruise giveaway with Princess Cruises!About Your Hosts:Mike Putman and James Ferrara are seasoned travel industry executives and lifelong explorers. In "No Tourists Allowed," they share their unfiltered opinions, expert advice, and authentic travel stories from years on the road. From luxury cruises to hidden local gems, they guide you on how to travel more meaningfully and avoid the tourist traps.Timestamps / Chapters:(00:00) Intro: American Airlines Devalues Points(02:22) Celebrating Recent Travels & Industry Awards(03:35) Savannah, GA Trip Report: Hotels & Restaurants(07:20) Review: The Pink House, Savannah's 18th Century Mansion Restaurant(09:02) Review: The Grey, Savannah's Art Deco Supper Club(11:03) The Ultimate European River Cruise Experience on AmaWaterways(15:50) What is a River Cruise Really Like?(20:05) Comparing River Cruise Lines: AmaWaterways vs Viking(25:12) Airline News: The American Airlines Basic Economy Loyalty Points Controversy(31:20) Travel Hack: How to Find Award Travel Deals with Seats.Aero(34:14) Announcing the Alaska Cruise Giveaway Winner!

Tired of business trips that feel like a copy-paste of the same sterile ballroom and conference room? How do you transform a mandatory work trip into a memorable, culturally-rich experience? In this episode, we tackle the secret to planning truly authentic corporate events that leave a lasting impact on attendees. We sit down with a master of the craft, Renee Jacobs, the Chief Operating Officer of MGME (McVeigh Global Meetings and Events), to uncover how professionals can escape the corporate bubble and genuinely connect with a destination.Join us as Renee Jacobs pulls back the curtain on the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry. She shares a wealth of corporate event planning ideas that go far beyond the typical agenda. We explore the powerful shift in MICE industry trends toward creating genuine "sense of place" activities, from sourcing local food for a surprise culinary competition to organizing city-wide "dine-arounds" for groups of up to a thousand people. Renee reveals how selecting unique corporate event venues—like historic castles in Ireland, the iconic Raffles Hotel in Singapore, or the Alvear Palace in Buenos Aires—is the critical first step in setting the stage for an immersive experience.The conversation also delves into the growing importance of integrating corporate social responsibility activities into the itinerary. Renee explains how CSR initiatives, such as local beach cleanups, tree planting, or bringing supplies to a local school, can be powerfully grounding experiences that connect attendees to the community in a meaningful way, even on a tight schedule. From fishing for piranhas in the Amazon to multi-million dollar gala dinners at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, Renee shares unforgettable stories and practical strategies that prove business travel doesn't have to be boring. This episode is packed with inspiration for creating your own authentic corporate events.About Our Guest:Renee Jacobs is the Chief Operating Officer of MGME (McVeigh Global Meetings and Events), a leading global agency specializing in event planning for Fortune 500 companies, life science organizations, and major associations. With a passion for travel that began in high school, Renee has built a remarkable career in the MICE industry. Her journey includes roles at The Compass Group, the Journal of Commerce, and WorldTEK, where she honed her expertise in planning large-scale commercial trade shows, exhibitions, and incentive trips across the globe before joining MGME and rising to her current role as COO.TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS:(00:00) Win a Luxury Cruise to Alaska!(05:21) Introducing Renee Jacobs: A Leader in the MICE Industry(09:21) The Scale of MGME: From Advisory Boards to Fan Activations(14:24) The Big Question: How to Make Corporate Events Authentic(15:33) Strategy 1: Choosing Unique Corporate Event Venues(17:40) Strategy 2: Creating Authentic Culinary Experiences(20:52) Strategy 3: Engaging Local Culture & Artisans(23:06) Behind the Scenes of a Multi-Million Dollar Event(24:50) Strategy 4: Integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)(29:00) How to Partner with MGME for Your Next Event(32:35) Final Thoughts: The Power of Authentic TravelLinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Skip the tourist traps and discover Michelin's pay-to-play scandal, why you should NEVER drink airplane coffee, and MasterCard's surprising #1 summer destination for 2025. Travel experts Mike Putman and James Ferrara reveal Boston's best non-chain restaurants, NYC theater district hidden gems, and insider tricks for finding authentic local dining anywhere you travel. Plus, enter to WIN a FREE 7-night Alaska cruise in a balcony cabin at notouristallowed.com before June ends!LinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInShare this episodeProduced by Podcast Studio X.

When Jim Tedesco saw fire dancers performing at street corners rather than resort stages during his first post-pandemic trip to Mexico, he witnessed tourism's invisible economic lifeline suddenly exposed. The ALG Vacations VP brings intimate industry insights to No Tourists Allowed, revealing how all-inclusive resorts have evolved from "beans on a plate" budget experiences to luxury immersions that still maintain authentic connections to their destinations. Discover why a childhood room service order made a Jersey boy "feel like a king," how resort staff interactions can be your most meaningful cultural exchanges, and why those alarming headlines about Mexico's safety deserve crucial context you're not getting. Plus: more tantalizing clues about the mystery luxury cruise giveaway - where seals, whales, and possibly bears await one lucky listener!LinksEnter the GiveawayInstagramYouTubeLinkedInShare this episodeProduced by Podcast Studio X.

Is air travel becoming more dangerous? We confront this question head-on and reveal surprising statistics that will make you rethink your fears. We also take you behind the scenes of our recent cruise on Norwegian, exposing the shockingly wide array...

Is the travel industry's obsession with "work-life balance" actually making us less healthy and more stressed? In this provocative discussion, ALG Vacations' David Pritchard argues that the concept is a myth that celebrates unsustainable multitasking....

In this episode, we sit down with airline industry veteran Cory Garner to discuss the complex world of airline distribution and frequent flyer programs. Cory shares his insider perspective on how airlines are using new technologies and strategies to...

Join us as we discuss the role of AI in travel planning and whether it can be trusted to handle the complexities of crafting the perfect trip. We also delve into the realities faced by flight attendants, including low pay and surprising insider...

Want to fly business class for less than the cost of coach? We expose the little-known loopholes that airlines don’t want you to know about. Plus, find out why your travel agent may be keeping these deals from you and how to work around them....