Join us on the Inside Travel Talk podcast, where adventure meets opportunity, guided by travel expert Mark Faldmo and charismatic host Patrick Wiscombe. In this episode, explore an array of exclusive travel deals, firsthand insights into dream destinations, and exciting cruise opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of European escapes, the pristine beauty of Hawaii, or the vibrant cultures of the Bahamas, we’ve got the perfect itinerary for you. Each segment offers a journey through timely travel news, breathtaking promotions, unique cruise adventures, and invaluable advice for planning your next dream vacation. Presented by BluePlanetVacations.com, your gateway to world-class holiday experiences, this episode is bound to ignite your wanderlust and facilitate your travel planning with incredible offerings and expert guidance.

On This Week’s Episode:

• Travel News Headlines – United Airlines to integrate Starlink internet in February. – A live Starlink rocket launch experience at Port Canaveral. – San Francisco’s tourism revitalization efforts. – Unique 69-day Arctic Circle cruise from Iceland to Japan.

• Destination of the Week: Europe – Land tour vs. river cruise explained. – Exciting travel deal highlights for Europe.

• Destination Spotlight: Hawaii – Recent Kilauea volcano eruption. – New tourism tax in Hawaii for 2025. – Overwater bungalow options in Mexico and the Caribbean.

• Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Kona, Hawaii – Unbelievable price drops on Hawaiian vacation packages.

• Just Cruising Segment: Cruise Deals and News – Last-minute Caribbean cruise with MSC and Princess. – Princess introduces 24/7 dining reservations. – Upcoming upgrades and name change for Half Moon Cay. – Nassau’s record year for cruise traffic.

Segment 1: Exciting Updates and European Escapes

Mark and Patrick kick off the show by discussing the latest travel news, highlighting United Airlines’ integration of Starlink internet, enhancing in-flight connectivity. Starlink’s significance is further accentuated by a breathtaking rocket launch sighting at Port Canaveral—a reminder of how travel experiences can align astonishingly with technological advancements.

San Francisco, once a top travel destination, faces an uphill battle. Despite its challenges, Mark fondly recalls attractions like Ghirardelli Square, championing the city’s efforts to restore its charm. The episode then unveils an unparalleled travel deal: a prestigious 69-day cruise crossing the Arctic Circle, offering adventurers an unforgettable journey from Iceland to Japan. Although costly, it’s a rare chance to explore pristine environments with National Geographic Expeditions.

European Destination of the Week

The spotlight on Europe begins with insights on land tours versus river cruises. Whether it’s the well-organized luxury of a land tour or the intimate adventures of a river cruise, Europe offers diverse travel experiences for both the nervous novice and the seasoned traveler. Mark unpacks exclusive offers from top providers like Globus and Avalon Waterways, emphasizing how these options cater directly to various interests, from single-country explorations to multi-national cruises.

Highlight Focus: Diverse Travel Deals

• Land Tours: Enjoy up to $1000 off select tours with Globus, catering to various European journeys whether across multiple countries or focused explorations.
• River Cruises: Avalon Waterways provides free airfare or savings of up to $1500 per person on select cruises, offering a unique blend of major city stops and hidden river gems.

Segment 2: Hawaiian Adventures and Trending Travel Deals

Update on Hawaii: Volcano and Travel Tax

Listeners are riveted by news of the ongoing Kilauea volcano eruption in Hawaii. Mark provides practical advice for visitors, advocating for early morning or late-night visits to best witness the luminous lava displays. He also addresses Hawaii’s proposed tourism tax increase aimed at enhancing sustainability without deterring tourists.

Overwater Bungalows: Closer Than You Think

In response to listener Heidi’s inquiry, Mark highlights beautiful and more accessible overwater bungalows in Mexico and the Caribbean—offering Tahitian paradise-like experiences closer to home. These options, from El Dorado Maroma Beach to the upscale Sandals Royal Caribbean, present luxurious retreats tailored for those desiring a unique and intimate vacation.

Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Big Island, Kona

Mark reveals a sensational deal to Kona, featuring up to $200 savings on select Hawaiian vacation packages. Prioritizing close-in travel dates, he showcases top accommodation choices like Royal Kona and Hilton Waikoloa Village, ensuring that listeners are equipped to seize these time-sensitive opportunities.

Segment 3: Cruising the Caribbean and Vacation Marvels

Just Cruising: Cruise News and Offers

This segment exclusively covers cruise news and deals, such as Princess’s new 24/7 dining reservation service simplifying onboard experiences. Exciting developments at Half Moon Cay include new piers and luxury additions, enhancing guest experiences on these private islands.

Mark unveils an astonishing last-minute cruise offer with MSC, touting balcony accommodations starting at just $780, inclusive of taxes and fees, for a February 15th departure. This seven-night cruise covers dreamy Caribbean destinations like Puerto Plata, San Juan, and MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay. For coast sailers, the Regal Princess offers six-day adventures to Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Belize, at unbeatable rates for lavish balcony stays.

Cruise Highlight: MSC Seascape

• Ports of Call: Puerto Plata, San Juan, and MSC Marine Reserve.
• Unmatched Rate: Balcony cabins at $780, tuned for last-minute wanderlust.

Segment 4: Ultimate Travel Deals and Bahamas Bliss

Top Travel Deal: Southwest Vacations

The episode crescendos with Mark declaring the Southwest Vacations package as one of the best offers he’s seen in three decades. Spanning international and Hawaiian destinations, vacationers can save up to $500—beckoning spontaneous escapes through September 2023.

Bahamas Retreat: A Personal Reflection

Broadcasting from Sandals Royal Bahamian, Mark delivers a vivid picture of elite relaxation in Nassau. He sheds light on historic attractions, adventurous excursions, and serene island experiences available beyond his resort haven. Whether it’s perusing local markets or exploring lush jungles, Nassau beckons for extended luxurious stays.

This episode of Inside Travel Talk encapsulates an inspiring panorama of global travel. From tantalizing deals to compelling destination insights, listeners are encouraged to embrace travel as an enriching and life-altering endeavor. Get in touch with Mark and the team at Blue Planet Vacations to embark on your personalized journey.