Join us for Episode 1 of our Travel Interview series! Today Belle discusses Family Travel, Luxury, Pricing, and the Future of Cruise with the National Sales Manager for Carnival in Australia, Mark Richards. Carnival is one of the headline sponsors for our Grand Opening at Nepean Village in Penrith this year, come see one of our friendly agents to book your next cruise! 00:00 Introducing Mark Richards 00:50 What's new w/ Carnival Australia: Carnival Encounter & Adventure, 4X the Fun 02:45 The change from P&O to Carnival, differences in experience, technology, entertainment, etc. 05:25 VIFP benefits, free laundry, & addressing questions about a P&O loyalty program 07:10 Premium & Luxury Experiences on Carnival Ships, Family Luxury, Byron Beach Club, Cloud 9 10:40 Carnival for Kids, Family-Focused cruising, Kids Clubs from 6 months old, nappy changes 14:40 New family-friendly shore excursions 15:28 Itineraries & destinations, booking early, discounted fares, 3- and 4-day cruises, asian cruises 18:08 USA & Caribbean cruising out of Galveston, Texas 19:10 Getting a great deal on a Carnival Cruise, VIFP Deals 19:55 Drink packages, wifi, tipping, discounts, groups on Carnival vs. P&O 22:15 Health & Safety on Carnival ships post-COVID, doctors on board, travel insurance 23:50 Sustainability & environmental impact, emissions goals, single-use plastics, cage-free eggs 28:35 Future plans, new LNG ships, private island, first roller-coaster at sea, breweries on board 33:33 Trends shaping the future of cruising, millennial and gen X cruising, short holidays