Many people recognize Christina Cindrich as the host of Global Passport, a new travel series that is currently airing in approximately 30 million homes on AWE TV. The 2x Emmy Award-winning producer, TV personality, travel expert, model, and actress has also had over 20 roles in feature films and on television. On top of all this, Cindrich also hosted the #1 hit show Private Islands–she is definitely a force to be reckoned with!
Home Business Magazine recently had the opportunity to catch up with Cindrich and get a behind-the-scenes look at Global Passport and Private Islands. She also shared must-know tips for traveling in a post-coronavirus pandemic era, insight on the biggest challenges she’s overcome to get to where she is today, and what’s next on her bucket list!
HBM: You are the producer and host of Global Passport. Could you tell us all about the show? What sets it apart from other travel shows?
CC: “Global Passport is the series I’m currently in production on. It just got renewed for Season 2 right before the COVID-19 pandemic. Global Passport premiered on AWE TV in the summer of 2019 and brings viewers to the most fascinating destinations in the world that make their impact through authentic experiences, local connections, and cultural insights. Season 1 featured bucket-list adventures like the Northern Lights in Finland, the equator line in Ecuador, the healing volcanic waters of Costa Rica, the spectacular temple of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, ethical animal experiences in Thailand, overnight stays in the Moroccan desert, and much more.”
HBM: You are also the producer and host of Private Islands. Can you tell us about this show as well?
CC: “Private Islands premiered in 2011 on AWE TV and gives viewers a vicarious escape to some of the most luxurious and exclusive 12,000+ islands around the world. The series instantly attracted a large and attentive audience, reaching 30+ million homes and was the record-breaking #1 show for over seven consecutive years. I produced multiple seasons until 2015. Now they just re-air those episodes often!”
HBM: You are definitely an expert on all things travel–how do you think the travel industry might look once the coronavirus pandemic is over?
CC: “A lot of us have cabin fever right now, but post-coronavirus there will be many changes in the travel world. I think people will initially be more interested in traveling to places that are close, safe, and clean. Road trips in the USA will be most desirable for many. If it’s urgent to travel out of the country or if you have a job like mine that involves international travel, we’ll have to wait to see what countries lift their travel restrictions, as many destinations may not be as eager to welcome US tourists so soon. Updates are happening daily, and I’m sure there will be new health and safety protocols in place that will shape the future of travel.”
HBM: What safety tips do you have for those who want to expedite passport, pack their bags, and travel once stay-at-home orders are lifted?
CC: “First, be sure to check official websites for guidelines and advisories for traveling overseas. The situation is constantly changing, so do the research in advance on each destination. Plan to prepare and protect yourself during flights and be hyperconscious of human contact. Continue to wash your hands every chance you get. As far as post-coronavirus deals, stay away from too-good-to-be-true offers, as chances are these could be desperate companies on the verge of bankruptcy. Focus on well-known brands that are financially stable. This is such a fast-changing situation, so be ready to re-arrange travel plans according to coronavirus updates!”
HBM: As an entrepreneur, how do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
CC: “I’m blessed that my career is my passion… it excites me and it gets me up every morning. I’m fortunate that I’m in an opportunity now where I run my own production company and create my own schedule. When I’m not on the road, my physical, emotional, and mental health are my priority. Daily exercise and self-care such as mediation, massages, time at the beach, and being with my family help me recharge my battery. I set achievable deadlines for my TV episodes in edit, but have some flexibility for myself and team when needed.”
HBM: What was one of the biggest challenges you’ve overcome to be where you are today?
CC: “While the saying ‘it takes a village’ may apply for TV productions, it can also be a bit frustrating in a work setting. I’ve been on productions with too many cooks in the kitchen and especially in Hollywood where there can be a lot of egos involved, sometimes it felt more like a competition than a collaboration. I’m so grateful that after starting my production company in 2018 and then through trial and error, I’ve been able to develop a team of like-minded, creative individuals that I’m proud to call my own.”
HBM: What is next on your entrepreneurial bucket list?
CC: “I’m ready to get back into production for Season 2 of Global Passport once it’s safe to travel again. I also developed a skincare line based around exotic ingredients I discovered in the islands of Tahiti, so I’m currently seeking a distribution deal for the line!”
For more information about Christina Cindrich, visit www.christinacindrich.com and follow her on Instagram.
