Story Archive

Trends, Talent and Increased Food Spend Driving Onboard Culinary Options

Seatrade Cruise News - January 25, 2023

David Yeskel, with over 25 years of experience in the cruise industry, shares his F&B dining experiences on board several recent sailings.

Caesars Entertainment Delivers on LV Strip Enhancements, Upgrades

Travel-Intel - January 18, 2023

Caesars Entertainment, with nine casino-resorts in Las Vegas, must continually upgrade and enhance its hospitality offerings in order to stay relevant on the hyper-competitive Strip. And despite the pandemic, Caesars Entertainment powered on to deliver enhancements, upgrades and new dining outlets at its properties. Here’s the latest on what the country’s largest gaming operator has recently introduced, and what’s on tap for the near future.

Celebrity Solstice: Asia’s Loss is LA’s Gain

Travel-Intel - December 12th, 2022

Celebrity Solstice is cruising into action as cruise lines bring their fleets back into service. Some vessels’ scheduled for home ports abroad are being relocated where original schedules and itineraries may not be practical – or necessarily desirable – right now.

Recent Sailing on Carnival Panorama is Proof: Carnival is Back, Along with All the Fun – Travel Week, Oct. 11, 2022

Most U.S-based cruise lines have now returned their entire fleets to service. But for some the onboard experience has lagged behind due to a variety of reasons – COVID protocols, staffing shortages and port restrictions, among others.

Cruise Cuisine: Top 10 Don’t-Miss Dishes on HAL’s Newest Ships – Travel-Intel, Sep. 9, 2022

Offering what is arguably the finest cuisine in the cruise industry’s premium segment, Holland America Line’s (HAL) ships are a literal feast for the senses, largely thanks to the vision and creativity of Rudi Sodamin, HAL’s longtime Master Chef, who oversees the line’s culinary program.

Wynn Las Vegas Award Tour: Review – Travel-Intel, Aug. 22, 2022

Wynn Las Vegas continues to makes its mark on the Las Vegas hospitality landscape that is already rich with high-end, luxury hotels, pampering spas and gourmet restaurants. But apparently Wynn’s stand-outs are strong enough to gain the continued attention of the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide.

The Best Dayclubs and Pool Parties in Las Vegas for Summer 2022 – TravelAge West, Jul. 10, 2022

Las Vegas may have seen two relatively quiet summers over the past couple of pandemic years, but for 2022, the pool party/dayclub scene is heating up fast. The city’s top venues are once again competing to attract partygoers willing to shell out for bottle service, food, daybeds, cabanas and bungalows while enjoying tunes from top DJs and live artists.

MedallionClassTtech Powers Discovery Princess Inaugural – Travel Week, Apr. 18, 2022

If my experience sailing on the inaugural voyage of Princess Cruises’ Discovery Princess last month was a harbinger for the cruise industry’s embrace of cutting-edge technology, I can’t wait to see what’s next as the line’s MedallionClass tech platform matures.

What’s New in Las Vegas for 2022 – TravelAge West, Apr. 11, 2022

While many of the world’s top resort destinations effectively remained in suspended animation during the COVID-19 pandemic, Las Vegas’ famed hospitality sector continued to evolve, innovate and improve over the last two years. Following are a few of the most notable recent product introductions and enhancements by The Strip’s two largest casino-resort operators: MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment.

Oceania Cruises Puts the Focus on Fine Food – TravelAge West, Feb. 05, 2022

In what could be called a doubly delicious comeback, Oceania Cruises’ recent return to service leans heavily into the line’s epicurean ethos with updated restaurant menus; new 24-hour, in-room dining options; gourmet ice cream; intimate wine-pairing dinners; copious amounts of Maine lobster; and a new “Souffle of the Day” — further raising the bar for the competition in the industry’s upper-premium segment.

Princess Cruises Stages Royal Comback on West Coast – Travel-Intel, Dec. 15, 2021

As cruise ships start sailing again with the industry laser-focused on safety, cruise lines must carefully balance that overarching goal with the need to satisfy their guests with an experience at least equivalent to — or greater than — the pre-pandemic standard. It’s certainly not easy, but Princess Cruises seems to have found that sweet spot, based on my recent 7-day voyage on Majestic Princess from L.A. to Mexico.

An Inside Look at Seabourn’s Successful ‘Bubble’ Restart in the Caribbean – TravelAge West, Nov. 04, 2021

After stressing over the meticulously prescribed health declarations and medical protocols necessary to board Seabourn Cruise Line’s Seabourn Odyssey in Barbados for its 2021 restart, the sheer normality of the actual onboard experience was a surprising relief.

Cruise Now? “Cruise Guru” Says Yes! – Business Traveler USA, Oct. 16, 2021

As guests stepped aboard Seabourn Odyssey in Barbados for her first, return-to-service cruise late this summer, their arrival signaled the kickoff of a successful restart for the ultra-luxury cruise line in the Caribbean. But that wasn’t all.

Hotel Check: Virgin Hotels Las Vegas part of Curio Collection by Hilton – Business Traveler USA, June 23, 2021

All Chambers (Virgin’s term for its hotel rooms) and suites feature the company’s patented, ergonomically-designed “Virgin Hotels Signature Bed,” conceived as a way to work comfortably by using a padded headboard (conveniently set at a 120-degree angle) to facilitate sitting up with a laptop.

Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas: Insider’s Glance – Business Traveler USA, June 22, 2021

Business Traveler USA reporter David Yeskel interviewed Richard “Boz” Bosworth, President and CEO of JC Hospitality, owner of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas as well as Joe Hasson, Casino General Manager for Mohegan Sun Casino Las Vegas at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas at its May opening…

Seas of Tranquility – Private yacht charters refine the art of social distancing – Business Traveler USA, Sept. 30, 2020

In recent years, upmarket travelers have gravitated to small-ship ocean and river cruising, both of which offer the sought-after combination of relative intimacy, personalized service, gourmet, prepared-to-order cuisine and soft adventure excursions.

Top Deck: Luxury Cruising is Launching New Designs and Extraordinary Experiences – at Sea, on the Rivers and Ashore – Business Traveler USA, Feb. 28, 2020

In a seemingly never-ending game of one-upmanship, luxury cruise lines are raising the bar on their offerings – from cuisine and accommodations to onboard service and active adventures ashore – in an attempt to woo new-to-cruise guests while holding onto repeat customers. And fortunately for travelers, this high-stakes maritime battleground shows no sign of abating.

Cruise Review: Oceania Cruises Insignia – TravelAge West, Feb. 9, 2020

I knew that Oceania Cruises was unofficially dubbed the “foodie cruise line,” but what I didn’t realize — until I was onboard the reimagined Insignia — was how deeply the company’s culinary ethos permeates the entire experience. It’s certainly not an exaggeration to say that dining is the primary focal point on Oceania’s ships, and the guests on my sailing stayed true to that theme by buzzing about what they’d eaten the previous night — and what was on tap for tonight.

Incredible Innovation at Sea: What’s New Aboard Seabourn Cruises, Holland America Line and Norwegian Cruise Line – Gluten-Free Living, Dec. 24, 2019

Possibly more than any other segment of the travel industry, the cruise sector adheres to the well-worn maxim that sharks live by: keep moving or die. That forward progress – in cruise ship design, operation, culinary prowess (including gluten-free options), and service delivery – implies innovation on a scale and at a pace unrivaled by land-based resorts.

Sailing with Celebrity Cruises on the Pacific Coast – TravelAge West, October 13, 2019

Once seemingly considered an afterthought by cruise lines — or merely a seasonal repositioning necessity — West Coast cruising has recently come into its own as a legitimate itinerary option.

Culinary Heaven at Sea: Thomas Keller Sails With Seabourn – Tours.com, August 1, 2019

In a never-ending battle for culinary supremacy on the high seas, Seabourn Cruises fired a shot across the bow of the competition in the luxury sector by partnering with Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller in 2015.

What’s Hot in Las Vegas Right Now – Gluten-Free Living, July 15, 2019

If the ever-shifting sands just outside this desert resort were a metaphor for Las Vegas’ constantly-evolving hospitality landscape, the dizzying changes that have taken place this past year in the city’s casino-resorts would approximate a blinding sandstorm.

Hotel Review: NoMad Las Vegas – TravelAge West, June 6, 2019

I can’t say that I intentionally avoided Monte Carlo Resort and Casino during past trips to Las Vegas. There just wasn’t a compelling reason to visit the Strip property — except, that is, for the little-known Hotel 32, a hotel-within-a-hotel product that resonated with a faithful clientele.

Costa Caribbean Cruise: A Window to Italy – Tours.com, March 1, 2019

I’ll be honest. I knew that a 7-day Caribbean sailing on Costa Cruises’ Costa Deliziosa would be different from competing mass-market ships sailing out of South Florida. I just never imagined it would be that different. In fact, it’s more than a cruise experience; I’d actually describe it as a taste of Italy – just a lot closer to home.

HAL’s – Nieuw Statendam Raises the Bar on Premium Cruising – Tours.com, Feb. 1, 2019

If you were smitten – as I was – by the new, modern look and feel of Holland America Line’s (HAL) Koningsdam upon her debut in 2016, prepare for the love affair to continue with a just-delivered sister ship, Nieuw Statendam.

The 10 Best Gluten-Free Bites in Las Vegas – Gluten-Free Living, Jan. 11, 2019

Luckily for us, special diet accommodation has become de rigueur in Vegas, making the dining experience that much more delicious. Thus, here are my current picks for the 10 best gluten-free bites in Las Vegas.

Family-Friendly River Cruising Aboard AmaViola – TravelAge West, Oct. 14, 2018

As little as five years ago, the terms “river cruise” and “family travel” seemed mutually exclusive, as river cruise operators typically catered to mature guests beyond their child-rearing years. However, that’s now changing, and AmaWaterways is leading the way….

Windstar’s Power Yachts: A Best-Kept Secret – Tours.com, March 15, 2018

Small ship, boutique line Windstar Cruises has always been synonymous with its three sailing ships, gorgeous vessels that give passengers goosebumps when the massive, computer-controlled sails unfurl to the tune of Vangelis’ stirring “Conquest of Paradise”. But a game-changer for Windstar was actually the line’s 2015 acquisition of Seabourn’s original trio of 212-passenger ships, now dubbed the “All-Suite Power Yachts.”

Five Foodie-Fave Cruise Lines that Appeal to Gluten Free Travelers-Gluten Free Living, April 11, 2018

Cruise Guru David Yeskel rounds up 5 foodie-fave cruise lines that go out of their way to appeal to gluten-free travelers with delicious menu options.

A Look at Holland America Line’s New Cuba Sailing-Travel Age West, February 18, 2018

Unwrapping the package of rich history and culture that Cuba presents U.S. travelers is a fascinating, multisensory experience — and one that was demonstrated clearly during my seven-day Authentic Cuba sailing onboard HAL’s Veendam.

2017 Best Bets – Travel Weekly, December 20, 2017

Story Archive

Trends, Talent and Increased Food Spend Driving Onboard Culinary Options

Seatrade Cruise News - January 25, 2023

Caesars Entertainment Delivers on LV Strip Enhancements, Upgrades

Travel-Intel - January 18, 2023

Celebrity Solstice: Asia’s Loss is LA’s Gain

Travel-Intel - December 12th, 2022

Recent Sailing on Carnival Panorama is Proof: Carnival is Back, Along with All the Fun – Travel Week, Oct. 11, 2022

Most U.S-based cruise lines have now returned their entire fleets to service. But for some the onboard experience has lagged behind due to a variety of reasons – COVID protocols, staffing shortages and port restrictions, among others.

Cruise Cuisine: Top 10 Don’t-Miss Dishes on HAL’s Newest Ships – Travel-Intel, Sep. 9, 2022

Offering what is arguably the finest cuisine in the cruise industry’s premium segment, Holland America Line’s (HAL) ships are a literal feast for the senses, largely thanks to the vision and creativity of Rudi Sodamin, HAL’s longtime Master Chef, who oversees the line’s culinary program.

Wynn Las Vegas Award Tour: Review – Travel-Intel, Aug. 22, 2022

Wynn Las Vegas continues to makes its mark on the Las Vegas hospitality landscape that is already rich with high-end, luxury hotels, pampering spas and gourmet restaurants. But apparently Wynn’s stand-outs are strong enough to gain the continued attention of the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide.

The Best Dayclubs and Pool Parties in Las Vegas for Summer 2022 – TravelAge West, Jul. 10, 2022

MedallionClassTtech Powers Discovery Princess Inaugural – Travel Week, Apr. 18, 2022

If my experience sailing on the inaugural voyage of Princess Cruises’ Discovery Princess last month was a harbinger for the cruise industry’s embrace of cutting-edge technology, I can’t wait to see what’s next as the line’s MedallionClass tech platform matures.

What’s New in Las Vegas for 2022 – TravelAge West, Apr. 11, 2022

Oceania Cruises Puts the Focus on Fine Food – TravelAge West, Feb. 05, 2022

Princess Cruises Stages Royal Comback on West Coast – Travel-Intel, Dec. 15, 2021

An Inside Look at Seabourn’s Successful ‘Bubble’ Restart in the Caribbean – TravelAge West, Nov. 04, 2021

After stressing over the meticulously prescribed health declarations and medical protocols necessary to board Seabourn Cruise Line’s Seabourn Odyssey in Barbados for its 2021 restart, the sheer normality of the actual onboard experience was a surprising relief.

Cruise Now? “Cruise Guru” Says Yes! – Business Traveler USA, Oct. 16, 2021

As guests stepped aboard Seabourn Odyssey in Barbados for her first, return-to-service cruise late this summer, their arrival signaled the kickoff of a successful restart for the ultra-luxury cruise line in the Caribbean. But that wasn’t all.

Hotel Check: Virgin Hotels Las Vegas part of Curio Collection by Hilton – Business Traveler USA, June 23, 2021

Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas: Insider’s Glance – Business Traveler USA, June 22, 2021

Business Traveler USA reporter David Yeskel interviewed Richard “Boz” Bosworth, President and CEO of JC Hospitality, owner of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas as well as Joe Hasson, Casino General Manager for Mohegan Sun Casino Las Vegas at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas at its May opening…

Seas of Tranquility – Private yacht charters refine the art of social distancing – Business Traveler USA, Sept. 30, 2020

In recent years, upmarket travelers have gravitated to small-ship ocean and river cruising, both of which offer the sought-after combination of relative intimacy, personalized service, gourmet, prepared-to-order cuisine and soft adventure excursions.

Top Deck: Luxury Cruising is Launching New Designs and Extraordinary Experiences – at Sea, on the Rivers and Ashore – Business Traveler USA, Feb. 28, 2020

Cruise Review: Oceania Cruises Insignia – TravelAge West, Feb. 9, 2020

Incredible Innovation at Sea: What’s New Aboard Seabourn Cruises, Holland America Line and Norwegian Cruise Line – Gluten-Free Living, Dec. 24, 2019

Sailing with Celebrity Cruises on the Pacific Coast – TravelAge West, October 13, 2019

Once seemingly considered an afterthought by cruise lines — or merely a seasonal repositioning necessity — West Coast cruising has recently come into its own as a legitimate itinerary option.

Culinary Heaven at Sea: Thomas Keller Sails With Seabourn – Tours.com, August 1, 2019

In a never-ending battle for culinary supremacy on the high seas, Seabourn Cruises fired a shot across the bow of the competition in the luxury sector by partnering with Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller in 2015.

What’s Hot in Las Vegas Right Now – Gluten-Free Living, July 15, 2019

If the ever-shifting sands just outside this desert resort were a metaphor for Las Vegas’ constantly-evolving hospitality landscape, the dizzying changes that have taken place this past year in the city’s casino-resorts would approximate a blinding sandstorm.

Hotel Review: NoMad Las Vegas – TravelAge West, June 6, 2019

I can’t say that I intentionally avoided Monte Carlo Resort and Casino during past trips to Las Vegas. There just wasn’t a compelling reason to visit the Strip property — except, that is, for the little-known Hotel 32, a hotel-within-a-hotel product that resonated with a faithful clientele.

Costa Caribbean Cruise: A Window to Italy – Tours.com, March 1, 2019

HAL’s – Nieuw Statendam Raises the Bar on Premium Cruising – Tours.com, Feb. 1, 2019

If you were smitten – as I was – by the new, modern look and feel of Holland America Line’s (HAL) Koningsdam upon her debut in 2016, prepare for the love affair to continue with a just-delivered sister ship, Nieuw Statendam.

The 10 Best Gluten-Free Bites in Las Vegas – Gluten-Free Living, Jan. 11, 2019

Luckily for us, special diet accommodation has become de rigueur in Vegas, making the dining experience that much more delicious. Thus, here are my current picks for the 10 best gluten-free bites in Las Vegas.

Family-Friendly River Cruising Aboard AmaViola – TravelAge West, Oct. 14, 2018

As little as five years ago, the terms “river cruise” and “family travel” seemed mutually exclusive, as river cruise operators typically catered to mature guests beyond their child-rearing years. However, that’s now changing, and AmaWaterways is leading the way….

Windstar’s Power Yachts: A Best-Kept Secret – Tours.com, March 15, 2018

Five Foodie-Fave Cruise Lines that Appeal to Gluten Free Travelers-Gluten Free Living, April 11, 2018

Cruise Guru David Yeskel rounds up 5 foodie-fave cruise lines that go out of their way to appeal to gluten-free travelers with delicious menu options.

A Look at Holland America Line’s New Cuba Sailing-Travel Age West, February 18, 2018

Unwrapping the package of rich history and culture that Cuba presents U.S. travelers is a fascinating, multisensory experience — and one that was demonstrated clearly during my seven-day Authentic Cuba sailing onboard HAL’s Veendam.

2017 Best Bets – Travel Weekly, December 20, 2017

With constant innovation, boundless imagination and immense talent driving the hospitality sector in Las Vegas, it’s no wonder the city is still the envy of other destinations.

The Alla Tours Advantage in St. Petersburg – Tours.com, Nov. 15, 2017

When visiting St. Petersburg by cruise ship, going with a local tour operator has its advantages, as a recent experience with Alla Tours shows.

Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising Lets Gluten-Free Guests Rest Easy – Gluten-Free Living, May 19, 2017

Entire 14-ship fleet caters to gluten-free guests safely and responsibly.

Renewed and refreshed: Vegas’s Best Bets 2016 – Travel Weekly, January 12, 2017

Best Bets 2016 pays tribute to some impressively refreshed and renewed products!

How Holland America Line is Enhancing Its West Coast Offerings – Travel Age West, December 4, 2016

Westerdam docks in San Diego and brings increased capacity to the Mexican Riviera

Luxury Cruising Becomes More Inclusive for the Whole Family – Travel Age West, October 09, 2016

Crystal Cruises proves that it’s possible to have a high-end cruise experience for kids, too

Gluten-Free Cruising Can Be Safe and Fun – Gluten-Free Living Magazine, August 2016

David Yeskel provides dining advice for travelers with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. Shipboard dining offers many options while cruising!

Cruise Review: Holland America Line’s Koningsdam – Travel Age West, June 5, 2016

“With the recent launch of the groundbreaking 2,650-passenger Koningsdam, Holland America Line (HAL) has — in one fell swoop — refreshed and reenergized the brand with a musical hub, an elevated destination focus and culinary enhancements. “

Gourmet Meets Buffet on the Strip – Travel Weekly, May 12, 2016

“In a perpetual game of one-upmanship that evolves in rapid-fire fashion, Las Vegas’ top casino-resorts continually push the envelope to merge gourmet cuisine and buffets, a combination typically considered mutually exclusive in other destinations. “

Holland America Line’s Modern Refit – Travel Age West, March 7, 2016

“Holland America Line (HAL)’s recent refit of Eurodam — a harbinger for newbuild Koningsdam and the rest of the fleet — is nothing short of transformational.”

Carnival Miracle’s Fun Ship 2.0 Upgrades a Hit – Real Family Trips, March 2016

Why Carnival Miracle Is More Fun Than Ever – Travel Age West, February 2016

“The prime motivator for applying Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades to Carnival Miracle couldn’t have been increasing market share — Carnival Cruise Lines essentially owns the market, with year-round, seven-day Mexico sailings from Los Angeles.”

Heading for Vegas? Don’t Miss These Attractions – Travel Weekly Asia, December 2015

“When the dust settled from last year’s rush of resort openings, revamps and rebrands, the Las Vegas hospitality landscape was once again transformed. Thus, while my 2015 edition of Best Bets is foremost a compendium of outstanding products, it’s also a tribute to Vegas-style evolution. “

Las Vegas Best Bets – Travel Weekly, November 2015

“When the dust settled from last year’s rush of resort openings, revamps and rebrands, the Las Vegas hospitality landscape was once again transformed. Thus, while my 2015 edition of Best Bets is foremost a compendium of outstanding products, it’s also a tribute to Vegas-style evolution. “

MSC Divina Brings the Med to the Caribbean – TravelAge West, June 2015

“No line has felt the challenge of achieving balance in catering to a varied demographic more acutely than MSC Cruises, whose single ship in the Caribbean, MSC Divina, has battled the industry’s heavyweights in a David versus Goliath-like fashion since its Miami debut in 2013”