1. How a Canadian travel advisor gained major insights at ASTA’s River Cruise Expo in Vienna

Ottawa's Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel made a major breakthrough at ASTA's River Cruise Expo in Vienna. 

Hello, Lush Lifers!

I’m thrilled to share a bit of exciting news—I was featured in two major Canadian travel trade publications this week, both released on the same day!

This week’s spotlight is an in-depth look at river cruising, which fits perfectly into our River Cruise Corner feature. I’ll be sharing the full article below so you can explore the insights, trends, and what’s making waves (pun intended!) in the world of river travel.

Next week, I’ll share the second profile, which dives into current trends in river, expedition, and ocean cruising—topics that are truly near and dear to my heart.

If this inspires ideas for your own future travels, I’d love to help.
✨ Let’s chat about how to make your next trip unforgettable—whether it’s a romantic river cruise, an epic expedition, or something completely bespoke.
 

📅 Schedule your consultation here and let’s start dreaming!

Warmly,
Sheila
Lush Life Travel | Virtuoso Cruise Icon
www.lushlife.ca

Thank you Michael Pihach and PAXnews.com for the wonderful profile of my attendance at ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors River Cruise Expo #RCE25 in Vienna. 

How a Canadian travel advisor gained major insights at ASTA’s River Cruise Expo in Vienna

"What do you get when you combine 16 river ships, Viennese traditions and a guest list filled with travel industry icons?

One incredible business opportunity.

At least that was the case for Ottawa-based Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel, a Direct Travel affiliate, who attended this year’s ASTA River Cruise Expo, an annual event that blends land-based learning with onboard ship experiences—produced exclusively for travel advisors who specialize in river cruising.

Held each year in a major European river cruise hub, this year’s edition from March 12-16 took place in Vienna, Austria, where Gallant-Halloran joined more than 1,600 travel pros—mostly from the United States (“I believe I was the only Canadian advisor!” Gallant-Halloran says)—for four days of ship tours, seminars, and networking.

ASTA is The American Society of Travel Advisors (the U.S. version of Canada’s ACTA, you could say), and this year marked the organization’s fourth-ever River Cruise Expo.

For Gallant-Halloran, however, it was her first time attending.

Speaking to PAX about her experience, Gallant-Halloran, a luxury travel advisor who specializes in both river and expedition cruising, called it “an incredible opportunity to deepen my expertise and make meaningful industry connections.”

All aboard!

During the expo, travel advisors stayed aboard docked river ships and spent their days touring 16 vessels from leading cruise lines, including AmaWaterways, Avalon, Viking, Uniworld, Tauck, Scenic, Emerald, Riviera, Riverside, and Amadeus, said Gallant-Halloran.

Ottawa's Sheila Gallant-Halloran on the scene in Vienna at ASTA's River Cruise Expo.

The event opened in true Viennese fashion—with waltzing, hors d’oeuvres, and champagne—but quickly transitioned into hands-on learning with ship inspections, product training, and one-on-one conversations with cruise executives.

Gallant-Halloran, notably, is a repeat “Virtuoso Cruise Icon,” a distinctive honour for luxury travel advisors whose sales performance excels within the industry.

It’s a prestigious accolade that recognizes those who generate the top one percent of Virtuoso’s cruise sales.

In other words, Gallant-Halloran was exactly where she needed to be.

“As a Virtuoso Cruise Icon, staying on top of the latest in luxury river cruising is part of the value I bring to my clients,” she said. “Experiencing so many ships side-by-side helped me identify the unique nuances of each brand—from stateroom design and onboard ambiance to wellness offerings and culinary programs. These insights are already informing the personalized recommendations I’m making for upcoming client trips.”

Elegant Vienna was the backdrop for this year's ASTA River Cruise Expo. - on the Uniworld S.S. Maria Theresa

Meanwhile, cobblestoned Vienna, Austria’s capital, which lies on the Danube River, was the “perfect backdrop,” Gallant-Halloran said.

“It just happens to be my favourite city in the world,” she said. “With its rich cultural history, elegant architecture, and the Danube River flowing through the heart of it all, Vienna was the perfect host for an event dedicated to river cruising.”

Staying ahead of the trends

The event’s educational programming particularly stood out for Gallant-Halloran.

“Staying ahead of industry trends and deepening my knowledge is part of how I deliver value to my clients—and this experience was both enriching and energizing,” she said.

The week kicked off with a powerful opening session at Vienna’s VIECON venue, where ASTA President and CEO Zane Kerby welcomed attendees with insightful remarks, setting the tone for what was to come.

One highlight was a media panel led by Travel Weekly’s Arnie Weissmann, featuring top editors from AFAR, Travel + Leisure, and Robb Report.

A fireside chat between Rudi Schreiner (co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways) and Torstein Hagen (CEO and chairman of Viking) took place.

“Their discussion about the future of travel, consumer storytelling, and shifting preferences gave me excellent insight into how to better connect clients with meaningful experiences,” said Gallant-Halloran.

But one of the “most inspiring moments” from the expo, said Gallant-Halloran, was a fireside chat between Rudi Schreiner (co-founder of AmaWaterways) and Torstein Hagen (CEO of Viking), moderated by ASTA Board Chair Jackie Friedman.

“Hearing directly from two visionaries of river cruising about how they built their brands and continue to innovate left me not only informed—but deeply inspired,” said Gallant-Halloran.

Another moment she’ll never forget? Being “completely flabbergasted” (and maybe blushing a little) when Michelle Palma, VP of sales at Uniworld, gave Gallant-Halloran a surprise shout out from the main stage during the opening session for her work as a travel advisor and river cruise expert on social media.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran with Michelle Palma of Uniworld in Vienna.

“It was humbling, unexpected, and incredibly meaningful,” Gallant-Halloran said.

She also had the pleasure of reconnecting with AmaWaterways’ Co-Founders Kristin Karst and Rudi Schreiner (who was born in Vienna). 

“Sharing dinner with Kristin—and having Rudi join us near the end—was a true highlight. Their warmth, insight, and genuine passion for what they do really reflect the spirit of Ama,” said Gallant-Halloran.

Rudi’s “Ask Me Anything” session was another standout moment.

“I asked him directly about Ama’s ship draughts and how they compare to competitors—real, nerdy, in-the-weeds knowledge that helps me better guide my clients. That kind of insight only comes from showing up, asking questions, and going the extra mile,” said Gallant-Halloran.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel with AmaWaterways' co-founder and chief brand ambassador Kristin Karst.

Other industry giants spotted at the expo included Pam Hoffee (president of Avalon Waterways) and Steve Spivak (VP of global sales and reservations at Tauck), who spoke about the future of river cruising.

“Their perspectives on innovation, evolving guest expectations, and destination trends gave me even more clarity as I help guide my clients' choices,” said Gallant-Halloran.

There were also brand-specific sessions, where each cruise line shared what sets them apart.

“These sessions helped me further fine-tune how I match clients to ships and itineraries—not just based on product knowledge, but the feel and philosophy of each line,” said Gallant-Halloran.

Beyond product training, Gallant-Halloran also took part in sessions housed on individual ships that focused on elevating the client experience, navigating emerging destinations like Colombia, and strengthening river cruise selling strategies.

Co-Founder and CEO of AmaWaterways Rudi Schreiner. 

Attendees stayed onboard 16 river cruise ships docked along the Danube, making it easy to explore each brand firsthand.

“For me, the combination of being surrounded by the best in river cruising—both people and product—and being immersed in the magic of Vienna made the entire experience unforgettable,” said Gallant-Halloran. “There’s just something about that city that continues to sweep me off my feet, every single time.”

She even participated in a media training workshop, which provided practical tools on how to elevate her voice and visibility in the industry—"skills that ultimately help me advocate more powerfully for my clients,” she said.

Growing on the river

The ASTA River Cruise Expo has grown at an incredible pace—and it shows.

What started in 2022 with just over 600 attendees and seven ships has evolved into a major industry event.

The attendees are a mix of travel advisors, river cruise executives, suppliers, media and around 100 exhibitors. But the heart of it really is the advisors.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel with the Avalon Impression

“We’re the ones walking the decks, peppering the cruise reps with questions, sampling the food (for research, of course!), and figuring out which ship is the right fit for which client,” said Gallant-Halloran, who first heard about the expo in 2023 through Virtuoso.

“Even though it's primarily a U.S.-based conference, I knew that as a Canadian advisor, this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” said Gallant-Halloran, who was initially waitlisted to attend this year’s event, but after some polite nudging, she eventually got a green light.

“It’s easy to see why the Expo has become the event for anyone serious about river cruising,” she said. “It’s full of people who are passionate about getting travel just right.”

Elbows up

What’s it like being a Canadian at an American conference?

Gallant-Halloran identifies as “a proud member of ACTA,” but she actually joined ASTA so she could specifically attend the River Cruise Expo.  

The expo is open to Canadian advisors—just as long as you’re an ASTA member and sell river cruises (especially those in USD), Gallant-Halloran said.

“Being the lone Canadian in a largely American crowd gave me a unique perspective,” Gallant-Halloran said. “But it also reminded me that we’re all here for the same reason – to grow our knowledge and become better at matching clients to the right river cruise experience. The vibe was warm, high-energy, and collaborative.”

Ottawa's Sheila Gallant-Halloran representing Canada at ASTA's River Cruise Expo in Vienna.

She said there were a few nods to current events (ie: the U.S.-Canada trade war, and U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestions that Canada become the 51^st state).

She said some American advisors offered an “elbows up” in solidarity, or made “kind, light-hearted apologies about the state of things.”

“But all in good spirit and respect,” she said. “The focus was firmly on learning and connecting.”

When the opportunity presented itself, Gallant-Halloran took the chance to speak privately with river cruise partners to better understand how they’re navigating the current global climate—especially when it comes to differentiating European-flagged or European-owned and operated lines.

“Those conversations were thoughtful and helpful, and reinforced my confidence in the brands I can currently recommend to my Canadian clients,” said Gallant-Halloran.

The benefit of attending had nothing to do with nationality, she noted.

“It was about access,” she said. “Access to ships, to leadership, and to side-by-side comparisons you simply can’t get from a brochure. It made me a stronger advisor—and that benefits every client I work with.”

Of course, there were several other key takeaways.

One: “How vital it is to experience these ships in person,” said Gallant-Halloran.

“While the river may be the same, the experience on board is anything but,” she said.

The industry, secondly, is experiencing exciting growth and innovation.

New ships are on the way from Viking, AmaWaterways, and Uniworld. Celebrity Cruises, as previously reported, is also entering the river cruise space—"a real sign that this market is maturing and expanding,” Gallant-Halloran said.

As for destinations, Colombia’s Magdalena River (which Ama will launch this year) is generating “huge interest,” and there are expanded offerings in Egypt, along with Uniworld’s new rail and cruise tours, which add another layer of luxury and land-based immersion to the journey.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel (centre) with Rudi Schreiner & Kristin Karst, co-founders of AmaWaterways, in Vienna

The direction of river cruising, said Gallant-Halloran, is heading toward “deeper cultural connection, personalized experiences, and continued global expansion.”

“It’s not just growing—it’s evolving,” she said. “And for clients who want authenticity, ease, and destination-focused luxury, it’s one of the best ways to travel.”

What does Gallant-Halloran love most about river cruising?  

“How a river cruise functions like a moving boutique hotel room, delivering you straight into the heart of a destination,” she said. “It’s an elegant, efficient, and immersive way to explore.”

Most recently, Gallant-Halloran hosted a women’s group on Uniworld’s River Duchess along the Danube in October 2024. This November, she’s leading another group on the AmaDante along the Seine.

“My clients love river cruising for so many reasons: you unpack once, and each morning, you wake up in the city you want to see. Shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and most alcohol are included, so it’s truly low-stress and great value,” she said. “Plus, you’re not just seeing a place—you’re tasting the food, hearing the music, drinking the wine. It’s an ideal way to travel.”

“The best of the best”

In 2026, ASTA’s River Cruise Expo will move to Amsterdam, with a new set of ships and itineraries to explore along the Rhine.

Is Gallant-Halloran already registered? You bet she is.

“I left Vienna with not just new knowledge, but renewed purpose and perspective,” she said. “The ASTA River Cruise Expo was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do—and how I can do it even better.”

Whether it’s securing exclusive perks, finding the right ship for a milestone trip, or creating personalized group experiences, “I want my clients to feel like they’re getting the best of the best,” she said.

“Because when it comes to river cruising—it’s not just about the ship. It’s about the journey. And I’m here to make it unforgettable.”

Ready to plan your next trip? Next Step: Luxury Travel, Booked Wisely

📩 Let’s curate your next unforgettable cruise experience:
🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey: https://tinyurl.com/LushLifeConsultSurvey
🔹 Schedule a Consult: https://tinyurl.com/LushLifeConsult

Exceptional journeys require expert planning. Let’s make your next luxury cruise experience truly extraordinary.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran | Lush Life Travel
🌍 www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca

2. River Cruise Corner -  ASTA River Cruise Expo

See above article, Sheila profiled in PAX News.

See photo above with Avalon's Chief Marketing Office, Camille Olivere, onboard the Avalon Impression for a post-conference cruise.

https://www.paxnews.com/news/cruise/how-canadian-travel-advisor-gained-major-insights-astas-river-cruise-expo-vienna 

3.Adventure Travel Corner- Private jet golf getaways 

Take time away from the crowds on a luxurious private jet journey with TCS World Travel, featuring some of the world’s most prestigious golf courses. From the moment you depart, every detail is meticulously arranged. #TCSWorldTravel #VirtuosoTravel

See https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/travel/luxury-tours/tour-operators/16810276/tcs-world-travel

4. Wellness Travel Corner- Embark on the Ultimate Wellness Journey: Explore The White Lotus Hotels by Private Jet

Embark on the Ultimate Wellness Journey: Explore The White Lotus Hotels by Private Jet

For fans of HBO's The White Lotus and seekers of elevated wellness experiences, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has unveiled a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: the World of Wellness Private Jet Experience. This exclusive 20-day journey whisks just 48 guests away aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet, visiting all three iconic White Lotus filming locations—Maui, Taormina, and Koh Samui—while immersing them in world-class wellness, culture, and cuisine.

The White Lotus, Reimagined for Real Life

🧘‍♀️ Koh Samui, Thailand: The serene setting for Season 3, where guests can embrace Thai wellness traditions on a private hillside retreat.

🍋 Taormina, Sicily: Live your own Season 2 moment at San Domenico Palace with Sicilian spa rituals and sweeping Ionian views.

🌺 Maui, Hawaii: Return to the magic of Season 1 with Hawaiian healing practices and beachfront tranquility at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.

Additional stops include Singapore, the Maldives, Marrakech, Nevis, and Mexico City—with curated experiences in every destination, such as Muay Thai training, snorkeling with marine biologists, and guided culinary adventures.

Travel in Style

You’ll fly aboard a custom-designed Airbus A321 with just 48 lie-flat seats, accompanied by a dedicated concierge, wellness expert, executive chef, and on-board physician—ensuring your journey is as restorative as it is luxurious.

Investment in Wellbeing

The journey is priced at $188,000 USD per person, based on double occupancy (single supplement: $18,800 USD), and includes all flights, accommodations, ground transport, meals, activities, and personalized service at every turn.

As a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, I’m able to offer my clients exclusive amenities—such as daily breakfast for two, room upgrades (when available), and enhanced VIP recognition—at every Four Seasons property, including those featured on this incredible itinerary.

✨ Let me help you reserve your place on this unforgettable 

adventure. Space is extremely limited—and the wellness of a lifetime awaits.

Ready to follow in the footsteps of your favorite White Lotus characters, minus the drama? Let’s plan your private jet journey today.

Read more: 

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2025-03-03/the-white-lotus-season-3-tourism-marketing-thailand and

https://www.forbes.com/sites/irenelevine/2025/03/15/the-188000-four-seasons-white-lotus-private-jet-experience/ and

https://press.fourseasons.com/news-releases/the-white-lotus-at-four-seasons/  and

https://www.fourseasons.com/privatejet/journeys/world-of-wellness/2026/

6. Travel with Sheila: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris & Normandy

What are you waiting for? 

I’m thrilled to be hosting another incredible group journey, this time on a women-focused river cruise to Paris and Normandy in November 2025. While the spotlight will be on women’s themes, spouses and partners are welcome! They can skip the morning talks and still enjoy the shore excursions, dining, and everything else onboard. (Several husbands are booked too!)

Why Join This Cruise?
✨ Paris: Always enchanting and vibrant.
✨ Normandy: Stunning coastlines, artistic beauty, and rich history. Explore Monet’s Gardens, the charming harbor of Honfleur, Joan of Arc’s legacy, and the D-Day beaches, including a special Remembrance Day tour on November 11th (with tailored visits to Canadian or American beaches).
✨ Château de Bizy: Experience the grandeur of "the Versailles of Normandy."

Blend culture, art, architecture, and the good life as we sail the Seine together.

Cruise Details:
🚢 Line: AMA Waterways, aboard the luxurious AMA Dante
📅 When: November 8, 2025, for 7 nights (option to add a 2-night pre-cruise in Paris)
📍 Itinerary: Roundtrip Paris along the Seine

Special Offers: Reduced solo supplement cabins—grab them before they’re gone!

•  The latest edition of Travel with Sheila -Join Me: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris & Normandy

All category E, D, and C are now sold out. I still have some category A, B, and suites. If you've been considering joining me, now is the time to book. Would you like to join me?

For the category B twin balcony or category A twin balcony, let me know if you'd like updated pricing. The pricing promos changed as at Dec.31.24. So let me know if you'd like to book, and if you are solo or double occupancy, as that will impact pricing. 

🗺️ For full details, including itinerary, deck plans, and inclusions (kindly note - the pricing promos have changed as at Dec.31.24 - let me know if you'd like to confirm updated pricing), visit: 2025 Women’s River Cruise Details.

🎥 Watch a recording of my webinar with AMA Waterways BDM Neil Dudley: Cruise Presentation.

And there's also this presentation with Neil and me:

Kindly see https://lush-life-travel.optin.com/newsletter/awlist4876745/MjU0OTcyOTI=/2025-women-s-river-cruise-paris-normandy-from-sheila-of-lush-life-travel.htm 

for details on: Itinerary, Map, Video, Info about AMA , Deck Plan, Inclusions. Pricing. Sheila Promos. Land Package in Paris. Air Promo. 

Ready to join us? Cabins are filling fast! Let me know if you’d like to secure your spot. 🌟

See some additional detail on these preferred HOTEL PROGRAMS

• A&K 100 Club ;  Accor Step & Fairmont ,  Belmond Bellini Club Program ;  
• Couture by Langham;  Dorchester Diamond Club;  
• Four Seasons Preferred, Hilton Impresario;  Hyatt Privé Program; 
• IHG Hotel Program ; Jumeirah’s Passport to Luxury , 
• Kempinski Club 1897; Luminous Hotel Program ,
• Mandarin Oriental Fan Club; Marriott Stars & Luminous , 
• Pearl Partner Oetker;  Peninsula Fan Club , Preferred Hotel Program ; 
• Rocco Forte Knights Program ; Rosewood Elite ; Small Luxury Hotels 

9.  Special Offers from Lush Life Travel, a Direct Travel affiliate & top Virtuoso partner

As the owner of Lush Life Travel, a boutique travel agency affiliated with Direct Travel, I’m delighted to bring you access to exclusive offers through Direct Travel’s status as one of the largest Virtuoso luxury travel network partners.

Here are some fantastic opportunities from a few of our favorite travel supplier partners:  

DESTINATION of the week: 

Chianti, Italy - A&K Private Estates

https://www.virtuoso.com/packages/16904583/ak-private-estates-the-chianti-collection

SMALL OCEAN CRUISE Partner of the week:

Seabourn - Spot fjords and foliage on these 4 sailings https://e.virtuosoemail.com/spot-fjords-and-foliage-on-these-4-sailings?ecid=ACsprvs-xLrKHOgPDAfr8RhHFrJn_hFt6oMi2FI0JPdHeQUViJO0lg_PN-yRUuM6siJ77tRwfHmh

RIVER CRUISE Partner of the week:

Aqua Expeditions 15-30% Early Bird Bonus https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/promotions/16922471/15-30-early-bird-bonus 

EXPEDITION CRUISE Partner of the week:

Lindblad Expeditions: Iceland -Discover the land of fire and ice https://e.virtuosoemail.com/discover-the-land-of-fire-and-ice?ecid=ACsprvvSsL8y1qHMHkgajI3thVPNz5xaPK-HhPxPSvLBZHAMgM_VhZui1VVBJ_LK4tzaMisi81hq

TOUR PARTNER of the Week:

Nomadic Expeditions' Mongolia - Golden Eagle Festival & The Gobi Desert (12 days)

https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/tours/16785425/golden-eagle-festival-the-gobi-desert 

HOTEL of the week:

Rosewood Amsterdam opens May 1st https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/current-news/supplier/rosewood-amsterdam-a-virtuoso-preview-property/Rosewood-Amsterdam-Open-May-1st-2025 

LUXURY experience of the week:

Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, Machu Picchu https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/services/18075177/hiram-bingham-a-belmond-train-machu-picchu 

Let me know if one of these holidays catches your eye—I’d love to help you plan your next unforgettable journey!