The Global Ops Podcast: Venice with Dave Atkinson

As we close out the final hours of 2018, I thought it'd be fun to end the year featuring a really incredible city, one that inspires celebration and one-of-a kind adventure. In the latest episode of The Global Ops Podcast, we head to the canals and festivals of Venice, Italy. My guest in this episode is not just an expert on secure travel to locations like Venice, but he’s a good friend who’s supported me on trips around the world. Dave Atkinson is an experienced Close Protection contractor whose law enforcement and counter-terrorism background (Special Branch) gives him a unique perspective into the world of protecting high net worth and high-profile individuals and companies. Dave and I have worked together/supporting clients on trips ranging from Wimbledon and numerous Olympics, as well as many film festivals in Venice and Cannes. Lots of stories to tell!

Venice is an amazing city, and in this podcast Dave and I share stories and insights that will help any traveler make their trip to Venice a fun and successful adventure. This city is literally like a massive museum. Whether you are supporting high-net worth clients attending the festivals, or shopping for art, or you are traveling yourself and on a budget...there will be something in this episode for you. We talk about things that you may not be aware of like:

• Doing Venice right requires a plan, and transportation is your biggest challenge
• There are NO roads. There are canals, walkways and alley ways…think about that.
• Your GPS may be just as likely to lead you into a canal, as it is to get you directly to your destination
• Narrow streets and alleys may prevent you from directly traveling to your destination the way you have planned

If you are a close/executive protection specialist or just a globe trotter ready for a Venetian adventure, you need to listen to this podcast! Dave and I discuss the logistics and tips that will help you avoid some real headaches. From getting to the airport, to efficiently navigating water taxi's and challenging locations, we cover a lot in this episode that will really help you out!

The goal of The Global Ops Podcast is to provide industry expert-level insights that will help you make your trips around the world a success. Listen in, and let me know if there are other locations you’d like to have us highlight!