Dive into this comprehensive recap of the latest episode of the Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show, where hosts Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo discuss groundbreaking travel news, unbeatable travel deals, and a one-on-one interview with Laura Okonowski of MSC Cruises. This episode is packed with engaging content that will make you ready to pack your bags and hit the road!

On This Week’s Episode:

• Big Changes in Las Vegas
• Labor Day Travel Statistics
• Hotel Workers on Strike
• Edinburgh Introduces Tourist Tax
• Destination Highlight: UK Travel
• Detailed Guide to London and Edinburgh
• Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Hawaii
• Cruise Deal of the Week: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Interview with Laura Okonowski: MSC Cruises Labor Day Sale

In this episode of the Inside Travel Talk podcast, Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo delve into various hot topics, including the demolition of iconic Las Vegas hotels, bustling Labor Day travel statistics, hotel worker strikes, and Edinburgh’s new tourist tax. They also provide an in-depth guide to exploring London and Edinburgh, announce a special Hawaii travel deal, and discuss amazing cruise deals from Norwegian Cruise Line. Plus, get insights from MSC Cruises’ Laura Okonowski on their extended Labor Day cruise sale.

Big Changes in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is undergoing significant transformations with the demolition of old yet iconic hotels. The Tropicana, an older establishment in desperate need of an upgrade, is slated to be demolished in October 2025. This event is marked with a firework show before the actual demolition at 2:30 AM. The Tropicana was once partially owned by Sammy Davis Jr and was involved in a notable FBI operation called “Operation Strawman.”

Additionally, the Mirage, another iconic hotel, is also coming down, making way for bigger, better developments. These demolitions are the beginning of new endeavors, including the construction of the Las Vegas A’s ballpark, transforming the city’s landscape and tourism appeal.

Labor Day Travel Statistics

Labor Day was exceptional for travel, with over 17 million airline passengers swarming U.S. airports. Though busy, the travel season saw minimal delays but a substantial number of passengers. This surge in travel highlights the ongoing trend of people making up for lost time due to the pandemic, known as “revenge travel.” Despite this, a slowdown is expected, with domestic travel predicted to fall by 8% and international travel by 3%.

Hotel Workers on Strike

Another significant story is the hotel workers’ strike in eight cities across the U.S., involving major hotel chains like Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott. The main cities affected include:

• Boston
• San Francisco
• Honolulu
• Seattle

This labor dispute might disrupt services, so travelers should plan accordingly and pack their patience. The hotels remain open but operate with limited services.

Edinburgh Introduces Tourist Tax

Edinburgh has approved a new 5% tourist tax set to take effect in 2026. This tax will be added to hotel bills, bed and breakfast charges, hostels, Airbnb’s, and other lodging types, with the exception of campsites, which are mostly used by locals. This move aims to maintain the city’s infrastructure and manage the influx of tourists.

Destination Highlight: UK Travel

One of the standout segments of the episode is the comprehensive guide to exploring the United Kingdom. Listener Elena asked for the best ways to visit London and Scotland, and Mark offered two excellent options:

• Globus Tours: A well-organized nine-day escorted tour that includes stops in Stonehenge, Bath, Wales, Edinburgh, and London. This option is ideal for those who prefer guided experiences with historical insights and commentary.
• Independent Exploration: A more flexible seven-day independent tour with four days in London and three days in Edinburgh. This option allows travelers to experience the UK at their own pace, with suggested stops in Chester and York.

Detailed Guide to London and Edinburgh

Mark also provided a detailed itinerary to help travelers make the most out of their stay in London and Edinburgh. Suggested activities in London include a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, visiting landmarks like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, and exploring historical sites like the Churchill War Rooms. For a relaxing day trip, consider visiting Warwick Castle and Stratford-upon-Avon.

In Edinburgh, must-visit places are the Edinburgh Castle (where a cannon is fired daily at noon), Mary King’s Close, and the Scottish Highlands. For Harry Potter fans, a Harry Potter tour is available, featuring visits to iconic filming locations.

Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Hawaii

Blue Planet Vacations has an unbeatable travel deal to Hawaii. Book by September 26th and enjoy up to $550 off packages for travel in early 2025. The packages include round-trip airfare from Salt Lake City and five nights at select hotels:

• Roamer Waikiki at the Ambassador Hotel: $869 per person
• Twin Fin Hotel: $999 per person
• Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach: $1069 per person
• Alohalani Resort Waikiki: $1199 per person
• Hilton Hawaiian Village: $1299 per person

This deal offers significant savings and is perfect for anyone looking for a Hawaiian getaway in the middle of winter.

Cruise Deal of the Week: Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is offering a spectacular Labor Day promotion with 70% off for the second guest, free airfare for the second guest, and other free perks such as a beverage package, specialty dining package, and shore excursion credits. This offer is available for various destinations, including:

• Caribbean: A seven-night cruise starting at $820 per person with stops in Costa Maya, Harvest Cay, Roatan, and Cozumel.
• Alaska: An early-season cruise in May, visiting Sitka, Juneau, and Glacier Bay, starting at $1023 per person.

This promotion is available for bookings made before September 13th.

Interview with Laura Okonowski: MSC Cruises Labor Day Sale

In an exclusive interview, Laura Okonowski reveals MSC Cruises’ exciting plans and extended Labor Day sale. Starting in November 2025, MSC Seascape will be sailing out of Galveston, Texas, offering year-round trips to the Western Caribbean. The itinerary includes stops in:

• Costa Maya, Mexico
• Roatan, Honduras
• Cozumel, Mexico

The Labor Day sale offers unbeatable prices starting at $229 per person, with added perks like free kids’ sail and world-class amenities. As Laura emphasized, MSC Cruises provide a refined travel experience with freshly prepared meals and well-appointed accommodations.

This week’s Inside Travel Talk podcast episode has provided invaluable travel insights, hot travel deals, and essential updates for travel enthusiasts. From historic UK tours to exclusive Hawaii deals and unbeatable cruise promotions, the episode has something for everyone. With the guidance and expertise of Blue Planet Vacations and hosts like Mark Faldmo, planning your next adventure has never been easier. Explore your world, live intentionally, and take advantage of these fantastic travel opportunities!