From packing light to upgrading security and uncovering little-known gems — even talking your way into the best seat in the house — frequent travelers pick up a few reliable tricks. We asked a number of leading voices in the travel industry to share their experience; below is one travel insider’s story and tips.
On the Road With…
NAME: Casey Ueberroth
OCCUPATION (Title and Company): Senior vice president of marketing, Preferred Hotel Group
INTRODUCTION:
I live in Newport Beach, Calif., near great surf and beaches, with my wife Brooke and our three children, Cole, Ozzy and Wren. Family is close by — my sister Lindsey and my parents, John and Gail, are a short drive away.
Travel has been part of my life since childhood. I took my first international trip to India at age six, and by 13 I had visited more than 50 countries. Today that figure is roughly 100.
Seven years ago I left a career in banking at Wells Fargo to join the family business. My parents bought Preferred Hotel Group in 2004 and my sister joined that same year, so moving into the company felt natural. Since then I’ve held a variety of roles across development, publications, golf and guest loyalty programs.
NUMBER OF ROUND-TRIP FLIGHTS PER YEAR: 30
FOR BUSINESS: 28
FOR LEISURE: 2
FAVORITE DESTINATION: Maldives (leisure), New York City (business)
FAVORITE AIRLINE BUSINESS CLASS: United
FAVORITE HOTEL: Ojai Valley Inn & Spa (leisure), Wynn Las Vegas (business)
FAVORITE RESTAURANT: Nobu Sushi in San Clemente, Calif. — a true “diamond in the rough” that’s worth seeking out.
MOST MEMORABLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE:
There are many memorable trips, but the most impactful took place in 1988 when my family traveled to East Germany. Crossing from West Berlin into East Berlin at Checkpoint Charlie was a striking moment: the warm, lively atmosphere of the West gave way to a darker, harsher environment on the East side. I remember watching the “golden glow” of the West fade as we turned a corner and encountered dilapidated, ash-gray buildings and residents who seemed hurried and tense. Within weeks of our return, the Berlin Wall came down. Experiencing both sides firsthand at such a young age made the historical significance of that event deeply real and unforgettable.
MUST-HAVE TRAVEL GEAR: My Tumi Vapor for its light, nimble design; an iPod loaded with music; and a drawing pad for sketching.
ON A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT, I SPEND MY TIME: Reading magazines, preparing for meetings, meditating, sketching and sometimes watching a movie.
BEST TRAVEL ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED:
One colleague advised me to “enjoy your work travel” by choosing flights that allow for rest — for example, flights that land in the evening but still leave time for dinner, or those that don’t depart too early so you can rest before heading to the airport. That practical advice has been invaluable. Another peer urged me to “work the loyalty programs” and maximize rewards and benefits.
MOST VALUABLE TRAVEL LESSON I’VE LEARNED:
Be present and attentive: keep your eyes, ears and senses open and absorb the experience. There will always be time to catch up on emails and calls later. Embrace the moment you’re in and appreciate what travel has to offer — it’s a gift.
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