In this episode, Phil Blizzard at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, explores the rich history and vibrant culture of this fascinating kingdom. Starting with the historic centre of Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that's steeped in tradition and heritage he talks to Naif Awlia, Tourism & Engagement Director, Diriyah

Then a preview of Bab Al Samahn, first hotel to open within Diriyah where ancient charm meets modern luxury. Phil taks to Fabrice Ducry, GM, of this Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott.

From there we head south, so to speak, to the stunning region of Aseer, where natural beauty and warm hospitality await - according to Dr Amr Homoud Almari, CEO - Oerations, Aseer.

You can watch the interviews in this podcast on You Tube, using the links below.

Diriyah interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTrdEePg3GY

Bab Al Sanhan interview- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNEDvjQaYUY

Aseer interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7Jt0AUC9cA

A TravelWise podcast vignette with Jawad Saade, GM, Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences, Jewel of the Creek talking about their Ramadan Iftar offerings along side the wonderful Dubai Creek.

The podcast of the full interview with Jawad Saade, GM, Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences, Jewel of the Creek is now available.

Join Phil Blizzard as he continues his exploration of Dubai's newest destination - the Jewel of the Creek.

In this episode he visits the Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences to meet Jawad Saade, General Manger who talks about the guests first point of contact - the traditonal Arabic welcome with a cup of qahwa (listen to find out what this is). He talks about the appeal of the serviced apartments, their creekside location and some of the activites they offer visitors staying at 'The Heart of Dubai'.

Join Phil Blizzard as he explores one of Dubai's newest destinations - Jewel of the Creek. In this episode he visits the Marriott Marquis Dubai and meets Fredrik Reinisch, the general manager to talk about this newly opened hotel and what guests can expect, the heritage of the location and the importance of the MICE market, plus a lot lot more!

The first TravelWise podcast of 2025 with Phil Blizzard talking to Bani Haddad, Co-founder and managing director of Aleph Hospitality, a Dubai based, independent hospitality management company, which will be 10 years old in 2025

The talk is about the services they offer to key markets across the MIddle East and Africa, their entry into Morocco and, of course, Saudi Arabia - the challenges and opportunities.

Along with a reflection on key activities in 2024 and a look ahead to plans for 2025 - including further development of their Innovation Lab, their collaboration with 'Evolvin Women' and the development of Dubai's Jewel of the Creek.

TravelWise onboard the Star Legend luxury yacht in the Mediterranean for the inaugural 'Legendary Winter in the Mediterranean' cruise.

Join Phil Blizzard on board Star Legend, from Windstar, as he explores the luxury yacht as it sails from Rome to Barcelona. He talks to key members of staff about the facilities, the various dining options, entertainment and the shore excursions available at ports of call along the way, This boutique yacht has just over 300 passengers per sailing!

Ports on the cruise include Civitavecchia, Rome and Livono for Pisa in Italy, Nice and Marseille in France and the arrival port of Barcelona, Spain.

Phil concludes this episode with Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Office, Windstar and some exciting news about future 'Legendary Winter in the Mediterranean' cruises for Winter 2024/25

If you are someone who is looking at a boutique cruise experience which is personal and friendly and takes you to the less-visited places than this is the travel experience for you.

For further information about this cruise and the others operated by Windstar contact www.CruiseMaster-ME.com

Travel Wise from Phil Blizzard - News, Views & Interviews, along with travel tips to enhance your journey.

Abu Dhai tourism news from Abdullah Yousef, Director of International Operations, Department of Culture & Tourism who talks to Phil Blizzard at the World Travel Market, London.

Listen to this comprehensive overview of the tourism development plans for the capital of the United Arab Emirates - from dedicated zones to the worlds largest entertainment sphere.

TravelWise on the road in the 'Land of Smiles' with Phil Blizzard and this trilogy which will take you 'off the beaten track' down south in Khao Tao, jungle trekking in Chiang Mai and a re-vist to the increasingly popular Hua Hin. This episode begins in Wongamat, Northern Pattaya, which is close to U-Tapao the arrival point in Thailand for flydubai and their daily service from Dubai.

Travelling south to the 'Royal Resort' of Hua Hin Phil catches up with Richard Jackson from English radio station Surf Fm to talk about the latest news on events, happenings & places to go. Plus information on a super affordable way to travel to the capital from Hua Hin airport in a comfortable air condition bus.

Plus my travel tips on where to stay, places to go in this 'The Royal Resort of Thailand'.

Featured hotel - Supatra Beach Resort Hua Hin - https://www.daviniaresort.com/

Featured High Spot - Vana Nava Sky Bar - Holiday Inn Hua Hin - https://www.vananavasky.com/

Recommended Transportation Service - Thanyakarn Ying Transport - https://www.facebook.com/ying.transport