Welcome to Inside Travel Talk, the travel podcast that fuels your wanderlust and helps you plan your next unforgettable vacation. In this episode, hosts Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo dive into exciting travel topics: a 3,700-mile walking trail connecting the US coast to coast, an incredible Monaco on a budget vacation starting at just $1,500 including airfare, and the hottest cruise news featuring 16 spectacular new cruise ships debuting in 2026. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a lover of luxury European escapes, or a cruise aficionado, this episode has something to inspire your next journey. Tune in and get ready to pack your bags!

Monaco Marina

On this week’s episode:

• Introduction to the Great American Rail Trail: A 3,700-mile walking and cycling route from Washington State to Washington D.C.
• Monaco on a budget with airfare included starting at $1,500.
• Details on the top hotels and must-see attractions in Monaco.
• The expanding flight offerings of Alaska Airlines on the West Coast.
• The inside scoop on the Delta Airlines vacation discount for European destinations.
• Just Cruising segment: An overview of 16 new cruise ships launching in 2026.
• Highlights of new ships including: Ama Magdalena (Colombia river cruise), Norwegian Luna, Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, MSC World Asia, and more.
• The cruise deal of the week featuring unbeatable prices on brand NEW cruise ships.
• Tips on the best times to book cruises for the best deals.

The Great American Rail Trail: A Hiker’s Dream Vacation

This segment kicks off with an introduction to the Great American Rail Trail, an ambitious 3,700-mile route connecting Washington State to Washington D.C. built on abandoned railroad lines. Already 2,000 miles are open, offering nature lovers, hikers, and cyclists a scenic, mostly car-free way to traverse varied American landscapes. Whether you want to hike sections or challenge yourself to bike cross-country, it’s an epic adventure in the making. This trail isn’t a traditional vacation package but serves as a unique inspiration for those craving active, immersive travel experiences with nature at the forefront.

The main focus here is the trail’s growing accessibility and the sense of freedom and discovery it offers travelers. It represents a new way to experience America’s diverse geography on foot or bike, embracing a slower, more sustainable way to explore.

Monaco on a Budget: Affordable Luxury on the French Riviera

Monaco seems out of reach for many travelers, but this segment busts that myth with vacation packages starting at $1,500, airfare included. The easiest way to arrive is flying into Nice, France, 20 miles from Monaco, with transfers by car or helicopter available. Staying in nearby Nice is also an option, with convenient train connections to Monaco for day trips.

Monaco dazzles with its iconic casino, the Princess Palace with stunning views and rich history, and the Oceanographic Museum once curated by Jacques Cousteau. Visitors can enjoy yacht-filled marinas and scenic train rides along the coast to nearby villages like the picturesque hilltop town of Eze, rich in ancient history.

The key takeaway here is that Monaco blends old-world charm, glamour, and natural beauty, offering affordable options for travelers to indulge in luxury without breaking the bank. This segment highlights the flexibility of combining Monaco with nearby Nice for both budget and experience optimization.

West Coast Flight Expansions: Alaska Airlines Steps In

Travel news rolls in with Alaska Airlines expanding flight routes on the West Coast. This move follows Avelo Airlines’ withdrawal from the Burbank Airport hub, with Alaska Airlines and Breeze Airways stepping in to fill the void. Starting in October, travelers will see increased connectivity between Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho, improving access and convenience for regional travelers.

This development is an important update for future travel planning, particularly for those on the West Coast seeking seamless flights without sacrificing budget or time. It enhances options for those traveling to or from Blue Planet Vacations’ home base in Utah and beyond.

Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Southern France Vacation from $1,500

Blue Planet Vacations showcases irresistible packages for five-night stays in either Nice or Monaco, starting at $1,499 per person and including airfare from Salt Lake City. Hotels featured include AC Hotel by Marriott and Best Western Premier Plus in Nice, plus Riviera Marriott and Le Meridien Beach Plaza in Monaco. October travel dates promise pleasant weather with fewer tourists.

This deal exemplifies the Blue Planet Vacations promise: luxury access made affordable, with personalized booking service to fine-tune your ideal European escape. Take advantage of their Delta Airlines vacation discount and bonus SkyMiles, enhancing value further.

Just Cruising: Exciting New Cruise Ships Coming in 2026

The cruise segment focuses on 16 new cruise ships launching by 2026, from intimate riverboats to mega ocean liners. First is the Ama Magdalena, a cozy 60-passenger river cruise ship navigating Colombia’s Magdalena River, offering exceptional culture and nature immersion.

Next up is the Norwegian Luna, a 3,500-passenger ship with Caribbean itineraries starting at just $929 per person, an outstanding price for a brand-new ship. Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas follows, a powerful Icon-class ship cruising the Western Mediterranean with lavish amenities from $1,729. MSC World Asia is another Mediterranean ship holding nearly 7,000 passengers and featuring itineraries through Malta and Sicily.

Additional ships from Orient Express, Explora, Viking Ocean, and American Cruise Lines offer options ranging from luxury yachts to coastal cats. The cruise deal of the week highlights sensational early-booking prices on these ships, encouraging travelers to lock in their voyages while availability lasts.

Best Time to Book: Why Now is Ideal

According to Mark and Patrick, the best time to book your cruise is as soon as the ships are announced, which means right now for these 2026 vessels. Booking early secures prime cabins at competitive rates before prices rise and itineraries fill up. It’s an opportunity to get the cruise vacation of your dreams with peace of mind and great savings.

In Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Starts Here

This episode of the travel podcast offers something for every explorer. The Great American Rail Trail sparks dreams of epic hiking and biking across the United States. Monaco and Nice provide a luxurious yet affordable European getaway on the iconic French Riviera. Alaska Airlines’ expanded routes open new doors for West Coast travelers. Meanwhile, the Just Cruising segment unveils a wave of new ship launches promising spectacular cruise vacations in 2026.

Blue Planet Vacations, through this travel podcast, empowers you to seize standout deals on land, sea, and air. The Monaco on a budget starting at $1,500 and the cruise deals on brand-new ships are timely opportunities not to miss. As the hosts proclaim, life throws curveballs, so live deliberately and explore your world now. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, this episode motivates you to dream bigger, book smarter, and experience travel like never before.