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What if your next cruise actually sailed? This week, Inside Travel Talk explores tall ship sailing cruises aboard Star Clippers, Windstar Cruises and Sea Cloud Cruises—three very different ways to trade the conventional big-ship experience for sails, smaller passenger counts and a closer connection to the sea. Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo also head to Morocco to discuss Marrakech, Fez, Erfoud, Rabat and escorted-tour options, plus cruise-industry growth, new ships, CelestyalPay, a groundbreaking gluten-free Oceania voyage and an airline check-in tip that could matter when flights are full.
Star Clippers Sailing in the Caribbean
The most distinctive vacation idea this week is sailing in the literal sense. Star Clippers, Windstar and Sea Cloud Cruises offer alternatives to conventional cruising, but they are not interchangeable. Star Clippers emphasizes the classic clipper-ship experience, Windstar blends sailing-yacht atmosphere with upscale small-ship cruising, and Sea Cloud leans into traditional seamanship and a more luxurious boutique environment.
On land, Morocco presents a different planning question: how to connect culturally rich cities with the Sahara region efficiently. Mark Faldmo, professional travel advisor and owner of Blue Planet Vacations, recommends an escorted tour for many first-time visitors because it can simplify transportation while adding destination context.
Can you take a cruise on a real sailing ship?
Yes. Star Clippers, Windstar Cruises and Sea Cloud Cruises all operate sail-equipped passenger vessels, although their styles differ significantly. Engines remain available for maneuvering and conditions when sailing alone is impractical.
Which cruise line offers the most traditional tall ship experience?
Star Clippers and Sea Cloud Cruises put the traditional sailing experience at the center of the trip. Star Clippers recreates the romance of the clipper era, while Sea Cloud places particular emphasis on traditional seamanship, including crew members hoisting sails by hand.
Does Windstar have actual sailing ships?
Yes, but not every Windstar ship is sail-powered. Travelers specifically seeking sails should choose one of Windstar’s sailing yachts rather than one of its all-suite motor yachts.
What places should first-time visitors prioritize in Morocco?
Mark prioritizes Marrakech, Fez, Erfoud and Rabat. Marrakech delivers markets, gardens, food and energy; Fez offers extraordinary history and its medina; Erfoud provides access toward the Sahara; and Rabat combines architecture and history with a somewhat calmer atmosphere.
Is an escorted tour a good way to see Morocco?
For many first-time visitors, yes. An escorted itinerary can make it easier to combine several Moroccan cities and regions while handling transportation and logistics between them.
Two very different styles of travel connect this week’s biggest stories: slowing down and experiencing a destination differently. A tall ship can make the journey itself part of the vacation rather than simply transportation between ports. An escorted Morocco itinerary can do something similar on land by allowing travelers to concentrate on the destination rather than continually solving transportation and logistical puzzles. In both cases, choosing the right travel style can matter as much as choosing the destination.
Travelers with near-term Kauaʻi plans should verify conditions rather than assume every part of the island has returned to normal. Hurricane Lowell caused significant damage, and Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources reported on September 15 that Kauaʻi state parks remained closed while infrastructure assessments and recovery continued.
The episode also provided a practical example of why disruption support can matter. Mark described Blue Planet Vacations clients whose Kauaʻi trip needed to change. Using airline waiver provisions available during the disruption, the agency was able to help move their trip to November.
The larger lesson applies beyond Hawaii: when hurricanes, winter storms or other major events disrupt several pieces of a vacation at once, changing the airline ticket may be only one part of the problem. Hotels, transfers, tours and travel protection may also need attention.
Patrick and Mark also discussed the possibility of cities across England gaining greater ability to impose overnight visitor charges. For travelers, the practical concern is total trip cost: local taxes assessed by individual destinations can make hotel costs vary from city to city.
Mark was skeptical of promises that visitor taxes necessarily translate into better tourism infrastructure. Regardless of the policy debate, travelers comparing European hotel costs should increasingly pay attention to taxes and destination fees rather than comparing room rates alone.
The hosts also discussed changes to Google’s European travel-search experience connected with European Union competition rules. Their concern is practical: travelers have become accustomed to tools that make comparing dates, flight pricing and hotel options faster.
The takeaway is not to depend on one search platform. Flight calendars and metasearch tools can be useful research aids, but travelers should still confirm schedules, fares, restrictions and final pricing through appropriate booking channels.
Hyatt has confirmed that its enhanced relationship with American Airlines is ending. Eligible members can continue receiving certain existing benefits during the transition, with different deadlines depending on the benefit. Hyatt says linked AAdvantage members can continue earning certain World of Hyatt awards through February 28, 2027, while linked Hyatt members can earn certain AAdvantage awards through December 31, 2026.
Travelers with linked accounts should review the specific benefits they use rather than assuming everything ends on one date.
Morocco rewards travelers with contrasts: imperial cities, labyrinthine medinas, desert landscapes, distinctive food and architecture, and cultural experiences that can feel dramatically different from nearby Europe.
For a first visit, Mark recommends considering an escorted tour.
Marrakech is perhaps the most recognizable introduction, with souks, palaces, gardens and abundant opportunities to experience Moroccan cuisine.
Fez offers one of the country’s strongest historic and cultural experiences. The old medina, Fez el-Bali, is characterized by narrow lanes, markets and workshops and creates a dramatically different urban experience from most North American or European cities.
Erfoud, in southeastern Morocco, is important largely because of its position as a gateway toward the Sahara. Including this region introduces a completely different landscape to a Morocco itinerary.
Rabat, Morocco’s capital, adds history and architecture in an environment Mark describes as calmer than Marrakech or Fez.
Casablanca still has a place on the itinerary, and Mark specifically mentioned its movie-related sightseeing. But for a traveler forced to prioritize, his four choices would come first.
At the time of the episode, Mark highlighted several Globus-family options.
A 10-day Cosmos Morocco itinerary discussed on the show began and ended in Casablanca and included Rabat, two nights in Fez, two nights around Erfoud and two nights in Marrakech. The episode quoted starting pricing of $1,399 per person, plus airfare, depending on departure date.
A shorter seven-day Globus Escape option was discussed from $1,159 per person, featuring Casablanca, Fez and Marrakech with a stop in Rabat.
For travelers wanting a bigger journey, Mark also highlighted a 17-day Spain, Portugal and Morocco itinerary, starting in Madrid and connecting southern Spain with Morocco before continuing through Seville and Lisbon. Pricing discussed on the episode began at $4,599 per person.
These prices and promotions are time-sensitive, capacity controlled and subject to change. The important comparison is not simply the starting price, but trip length, included destinations, pacing and how much of Morocco a traveler wants to experience.
Travelers interested in these itineraries can browse current Globus and Cosmos Morocco tours and compare departures, routing and inclusions before deciding which approach fits best.
Cruising continues to diversify. At one end are enormous new vessels packed with family attractions; at the other are intimate sailing ships carrying little more than 100 or 200 guests. This week’s cruise conversation illustrates why “cruise” has become too broad a word to describe a single type of vacation.
A listener named Cindy asked a terrific question: Can you still cruise aboard a real sailing ship with actual sails?
Absolutely.
For travelers drawn to canvas overhead, teak decks and the feeling of moving through the water under wind power, Mark identified three options worth comparing: Star Clippers, Windstar Cruises and Sea Cloud Cruises.
Star Clippers is an obvious starting point for travelers who picture a romantic, traditional-looking sailing vessel.
The fleet includes Star Clipper and Star Flyer, both four-masted ships carrying up to 166 guests, and Royal Clipper, a spectacular five-masted, full-rigged sailing ship carrying 227 guests. Royal Clipper has 42 sails and is recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest square-rigger in service.
The line combines old-world sailing aesthetics with modern passenger accommodations. Royal Clipper normally travels under sail at sea when conditions permit, although engines are available when weather, sea conditions or operational needs require them.
Mark recommends Star Clippers for someone whose priority is the classic tall ship experience. Its cruising regions include the Mediterranean along with winter programs in the Caribbean and Central America.
Windstar offers a different interpretation. The experience combines the intimacy of small-ship cruising with the visual drama of sails.
There is one important booking distinction: Windstar operates both sailing yachts and motor yachts. Someone attracted specifically by wind-powered sailing needs to make sure the chosen ship is part of the sailing fleet.
Mark particularly likes the sailing-yacht concept in Tahiti and French Polynesia, where smaller-scale cruising and tropical island scenery make a natural combination.
Windstar can be a particularly interesting choice for travelers who want the atmosphere of sailing without making maritime tradition the defining theme of every aspect of the vacation.
Cruises on Sea Cloud takes the concept in another direction, combining true tall ships with an intimate, upscale onboard environment.
SEA CLOUD II accommodates up to 94 passengers, while SEA CLOUD SPIRIT carries up to 136. The latter combines traditional windjammer design with contemporary features including balcony accommodations, a spa and a swim platform.
What really distinguishes Sea Cloud is what happens overhead. Crew members still climb the rigging and hoist sails by hand, making traditional seamanship part of the experience rather than simply the ship’s visual design.
Sea Cloud also offers intriguing routes beyond familiar Mediterranean and Caribbean choices, with destinations including Morocco, the Canary Islands, Azores and Atlantic Coast.
For a traveler who wants a smaller passenger count, elevated service and sailing tradition, Sea Cloud deserves serious consideration.
The simplest way to distinguish them is by the experience each emphasizes.
Choose Star Clippers when the romance of a classic clipper ship is the main reason you want to cruise.
Consider Windstar’s sailing yachts when you want an upscale small-ship vacation where sails complement the destination experience—particularly somewhere like Tahiti.
Consider Sea Cloud Cruises when traditional seamanship, very small passenger counts and a more luxurious boutique environment are priorities.
There is no single right answer. The right sailing ship depends on itinerary, onboard atmosphere, service expectations, cabin preferences and how central the act of sailing is to the vacation.
The hosts discussed the enormous global cruise-ship order book and what it says about demand for cruising. One important part of the story is what happens to existing ships: older vessels do not necessarily disappear when major lines introduce new tonnage. Ships can be sold, refurbished and repositioned for different cruise brands and markets.
The result is not merely more ships. It is more segmentation—from giant family resorts at sea to premium ships, luxury vessels, expedition products and tiny sailing yachts.
Oceania Cruises has announced what it calls the industry’s first entirely gluten-free ocean voyage.
The 12-night Oceania Vista sailing departs May 31, 2028, roundtrip from Southampton, visiting England, Ireland and Scotland. Oceania says the complete onboard culinary program will be gluten-free, including specialty restaurants, afternoon tea and The Bakery. The voyage is being created with Celiac Cruise.
For travelers with celiac disease or significant dietary concerns, the importance goes beyond having gluten-free menu selections. A shipwide program is intended to reduce the constant need to question individual preparation and cross-contact procedures.
Carnival Tropicale, the fifth and final Excel-class ship, is scheduled to begin sailing from Galveston on April 15, 2028.
Its centerpiece will be Sunsation Point, a multideck family entertainment area featuring WaterWorks Ultra with six waterslides, splash areas and extended evening operation. Carnival has announced four-, five-, six- and eight-day itineraries from Texas.
For families, extended evening use is significant. Pool and water-park areas traditionally quiet down later in the day; Carnival is intentionally making this space part of the nighttime entertainment mix.
Explora Journeys has changed its 2027-28 deployment, replacing previously planned Middle East and Red Sea sailings with new programs.
From December 2027 through March 2028, EXPLORA I will operate 10 South American journeys visiting 37 destinations, including 20 maiden ports, across countries including Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Chile.
Mark highlighted Explora’s emphasis on longer destination stays. For travelers who dislike feeling rushed in port, late departures and overnights can materially change what is possible ashore.
Celestyal has moved away from making guests choose among a maze of conventional food and beverage packages with its CelestyalPay wallet.
Guests can pre-purchase food-and-beverage credit, and Celestyal adds bonus value. Current terms include a €15 bonus with €100 purchased, €100 with €500 and €250 with €1,000. The wallet is specifically for eligible food and beverage spending rather than general onboard purchases.
For travelers who dislike calculating whether they will consume enough drinks to justify a traditional package, the wallet approach provides more flexibility.
This week’s cruise deal is really a three-way sailing comparison.
At the time of the episode, Star Clippers was featuring a 2027 early-booking promotion described on the show as offering up to $300 in onboard credit plus prepaid gratuities on eligible sailings.
Windstar Cruises currently advertises a complimentary all-inclusive package on qualifying voyages departing through 2027, including Wi-Fi, gratuities and select beer, cocktails and wine by the glass, along with a reduced $300-per-stateroom deposit for the promotion. Windstar also offers a Tahiti air-and-hotel package with an LAX flight component, one pre-cruise hotel night, transfers and a post-cruise day room—particularly useful because many flights home from Papeete leave late at night.
Sea Cloud Cruises currently advertises 2027 complimentary cabin-upgrade promotions, including an upgrade from qualifying stateroom bookings and a “Suite Life” offer on eligible sailings, with an advertised booking deadline of October 31.
Promotions, eligible sailings and availability can change. More importantly, these three products are sufficiently different that the promotion should not determine the cruise by itself. First choose the sailing style and itinerary that fit; then compare the available offer.
Travelers can compare current tall ship sailing cruises from Star Clippers, Windstar and Sea Cloud Cruises before choosing the ship, cabin and itinerary that best match their expectations.
When your airline sends the “time to check in” notification, don’t ignore it.
Mark recommends checking in when the airline’s check-in window opens, commonly about 24 hours before departure. Depending on the carrier, check-in timing can affect access to seat selection, upgrade processing and how passengers are handled during oversold situations.
Checking in online does not mean arriving at the airport later. Mark still recommends allowing approximately two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international departure.
A tall ship sailing cruise is a passenger voyage aboard a vessel equipped with substantial traditional-style sails and rigging. Modern sailing cruise ships also have engines for safety, maneuvering and situations where wind conditions are unsuitable.
Yes. Star Clippers’ vessels are designed to sail under wind power when conditions permit, while engines provide operational flexibility when required.
Star Clippers places greater emphasis on the traditional clipper-ship aesthetic and sailing experience. Windstar’s sailing yachts blend sails with an upscale, contemporary small-ship cruise style. Windstar also operates motor yachts, so travelers need to select the ship carefully.
Yes. Traditional seamanship is part of the Sea Cloud experience, with crew members climbing the rigging and manually handling sails.
Depending on the cruise line and season, options discussed in this episode include the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Central America, Tahiti and French Polynesia, Morocco, the Canary Islands, Azores and portions of Europe’s Atlantic coast.
There is no single ideal length, but the tours discussed on the show illustrate the tradeoff. A seven-day itinerary can provide an introduction to major cities, while a 10-day itinerary can reach farther toward the Sahara region. A 17-day multi-country trip can combine Morocco with Spain and Portugal.
Casablanca can be worthwhile, but Mark would prioritize Marrakech, Fez, Erfoud and Rabat first if time is limited. Travelers with a longer itinerary can add Casablanca and other destinations.
Choosing among Star Clippers, Windstar and Sea Cloud involves much more than comparing fares. Passenger count, cabin style, how often and how traditionally the ship sails, itinerary, time in port and onboard atmosphere can make these vacations feel very different.
The same applies to Morocco, where tour length and routing determine whether you get a city-focused introduction or reach farther toward the Sahara.
Blue Planet Vacations can help compare sailing ships, cabins, itineraries, promotions and Morocco tour options based on how you actually want to travel. Request a vacation quote from Blue Planet Vacations to start comparing options.
You can also subscribe to Inside Travel Talk for future travel ideas, cruise news, destination inspiration and travel offers.
For travelers accustomed to conventional cruise ships, tall ship sailing cruises offer something refreshingly different: the possibility of looking upward and seeing canvas catching the wind instead of simply watching the ocean from a floating resort.
Whether that means standing beneath Royal Clipper’s five masts, sailing among French Polynesian islands aboard Windstar or watching a Sea Cloud crew work the rigging by hand, choosing a sailing ship can make getting there every bit as memorable as the port itself.
Add Morocco’s medinas, imperial cities and Sahara landscapes, and this week’s Inside Travel Talk is a reminder that sometimes the most memorable vacation starts by changing how you travel.
Inside Travel Talk combines current travel news with practical traveler perspective and professional industry insight. Patrick Wiscombe brings the perspective of an experienced radio and podcast host, while Mark Faldmo is a professional travel advisor and owner of Blue Planet Vacations. Their conversations focus on what travel developments mean in practical terms—from selecting the right cruise style to dealing with disrupted trips and comparing complex itineraries.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
Mexico’s Day of the Dead is far more than colorful Catrinas and elaborate decorations. Día de Muertos is a celebration of remembrance, family and the enduring connection between the living and those who have died. This week, Inside Travel Talk explores where travelers can experience the tradition—from Oaxaca and Mexico City to Xcaret and Puerto Vallarta—and why Mark Faldmo considers Puerto Vallarta an especially appealing choice for travelers who want cultural immersion and a beach vacation in one trip. The episode also covers new airline and airport developments, Holland America’s ambitious 2028 Alaska cruises, Margaritaville at Sea’s Beachcomber and an important discussion about travel insurance.
Day of the Dead Celebration in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
The biggest destination takeaway this week is that Day of the Dead in Mexico is a cultural experience worth planning a trip around, not simply something travelers happen to encounter while vacationing there. Mark recommends Puerto Vallarta for many leisure travelers because it combines Día de Muertos festivities with a traditional resort-and-beach vacation, while Oaxaca offers deeper cultural immersion. On the cruise side, Holland America’s newly opened 2028 Alaska season stands out for longer 11-, 14-, 16- and 18-day itineraries that venture beyond the usual Southeast Alaska ports. Travelers should also examine travel-insurance benefits carefully rather than assuming a credit card provides comprehensive protection.
The central observances take place November 1 and November 2, although traditions and schedules vary by community and festivities can begin days earlier. Mexico’s tourism information identifies November 1 with remembrance of children who have died and November 2 with adults.
It depends on the experience you want. Mark recommends Puerto Vallarta for the average leisure traveler because it combines cultural festivities with a beach vacation. Oaxaca offers a more immersive traditional experience, while Mexico City is known for large-scale public celebrations.
No. Día de Muertos centers on remembrance of people who have died, expressed through traditions that can include family gatherings, altars, food, flowers and cemetery observances. Its meaning and customs also vary considerably across Mexico.
Holland America’s 2028 season includes voyages from seven to 18 days, with longer itineraries visiting places such as Kodiak, Valdez, Anchorage and Bella Bella and offering scenic cruising in less-common waterways, including Nootka Sound on select voyages.
Not necessarily. Mark recommends examining the actual coverage rather than relying on the phrase “travel insurance,” particularly for emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, coverage limits, deductibles and requirements to purchase the trip with that specific card.
This episode connects two very different ways of traveling more deeply. In Mexico, it means going beyond the resort gates to understand an important cultural tradition. In Alaska, it means considering whether a longer cruise with less-visited ports might provide a richer experience than the standard seven-day itinerary. Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo keep returning to the same idea: the right vacation is not necessarily about finding the shortest trip or lowest fare. It is about choosing the experience that fits what you actually want from your time away.
The first thing travelers should understand about Day of the Dead in Mexico is what it is—and what it is not.
It is tempting for U.S. visitors to compare Día de Muertos with Halloween because of the dates and some of its visual imagery. That comparison misses its cultural meaning. Mexico’s government describes Día de Muertos as a celebration of memory in which deceased family members are symbolically welcomed back through offerings and remembrance. November 1 is commonly associated with children who have died and November 2 with deceased adults, although specific customs differ among communities.
That variation is important. Travelers should approach Día de Muertos as a living cultural tradition rather than an attraction staged for visitors.
Mark has experienced Day of the Dead in Mexico twice, and he considers it worthy of a travel bucket list, particularly for people interested in cultural immersion. He highlighted the decorations, processions and celebrations, but one of his favorite details is much simpler: pan de muerto, the traditional sweet bread associated with the season.
For travelers primarily motivated by culture, Mark points toward Oaxaca.
Día de Muertos traditions in Oaxaca extend beyond one central public event. Communities have their own observances, and cemetery traditions, altars, flowers, food, music and processions can all be part of the experience. Mexico’s cultural authorities document significant variation even among communities within Oaxaca, reinforcing why visitors should not expect one standardized celebration.
That depth makes Oaxaca particularly compelling for travelers willing to make the cultural experience the centerpiece of their trip.
Respect matters. Cemeteries and community observances may be deeply personal family spaces, not simply photo opportunities. Travelers participating in local experiences should follow community guidance, ask before photographing people and remember that they are guests at a tradition centered on remembrance.
Mexico City offers another interpretation: a much larger, more theatrical urban celebration.
For travelers who want a major city vacation alongside Día de Muertos events, Mexico City can combine museums, dining, historic neighborhoods and public festivities into one itinerary. It is a very different experience from visiting smaller communities around Oaxaca, which is exactly why deciding what kind of Día de Muertos experience you want should come before choosing the destination.
Travelers already considering Cancun or the Riviera Maya can also experience seasonal programming at Xcaret’s Festival of Life and Death Traditions.
The festival runs from October 30 through November 2 and incorporates altars, offerings, food, workshops, handicrafts, exhibitions, theater, dance and concerts. It is a particularly accessible option for families and resort travelers who want to incorporate Día de Muertos programming into a broader Riviera Maya vacation.
It is still different from participating in community traditions in Oaxaca, so travelers should choose based on the type of experience they want rather than treating the destinations as interchangeable.
For the average vacationer asking Mark where to go, his answer is Puerto Vallarta.
His reasoning is practical: Puerto Vallarta lets travelers combine a recognizable Mexican beach vacation with Día de Muertos celebrations rather than requiring them to choose one or the other. Downtown and the Malecón become part of the experience, with Catrina displays, flowers, music, performances and seasonal festivities.
Mark also recommends staying close enough to downtown to experience the celebration on foot. He specifically highlighted Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel for adults and Buenaventura Grand Hotel as a family-friendly all-inclusive option. Based on his experience, their location gives travelers easier access to the Malecón while preserving the beachfront-resort side of the vacation.
Mark also singled out Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta from his firsthand travels, praising its beach and restaurant setting. That is a personal recommendation based on his own stays rather than a claim that it is objectively the best choice for every traveler.
A federal appeals court has vacated the U.S. Department of Transportation order that would have terminated approval and antitrust immunity for the Delta-Aeromexico joint venture.
The Eleventh Circuit concluded that DOT’s decision was arbitrary and capricious, including because the agency departed from its usual comprehensive market analysis. Aeromexico subsequently said the partnership and its antitrust immunity remain in effect.
For travelers, the practical issue is connectivity. The partnership allows Delta and Aeromexico to coordinate service between the United States and Mexico, potentially making connecting itineraries beyond Mexico City easier to construct.
United is testing an interesting solution to the tight-connection lunch problem.
On eligible flights at up to nine designated gates in Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal C, travelers can order sandwiches, salads, drinks and certain travel essentials through the United app. The items are then waiting on a designated pickup shelf near the gate.
Mark likes the concept precisely because connecting passengers may not have enough time to search the terminal for a meal. If the test works and expands, it is a small amenity that could solve a very common travel frustration.
A new program called Gateside by TSA PreCheck allows approved PreCheck members to pass through security without a boarding pass at participating airports.
Users apply in advance and, if approved, can enter the secure side of the terminal to meet arriving travelers, accompany someone toward their departure gate or use airport amenities. Salt Lake City International Airport is among the 13 airports included in the initial program.
That Salt Lake City inclusion is especially relevant to Inside Travel Talk’s Utah audience.
Mark admitted another use appeals to him: simply spending time at the airport. He has always enjoyed the energy of airports and misses being able to meet people at the gate. The new program brings back part of that pre-9/11 airport experience, although in a controlled, pre-approved form.
Beginning in late 2027 Southwest plans to launch its first airport lounges at Austin, Baltimore/Washington, Honolulu and Nashville.
Southwest says the lounges will feature locally inspired dining and other amenities developed in partnership with Chase. A new premium Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card is also expected to provide lounge access. At least seven additional lounges are planned over the following years.
Mark particularly likes the Honolulu location because late departures from Hawaii can leave travelers with a substantial gap between hotel checkout and their flight home.
The lounges also illustrate Southwest’s continuing transformation. Assigned seating, changes to baggage policies and now premium airport spaces are pushing the airline’s experience beyond the model longtime Southwest customers knew.
The hosts also discussed Club Med’s continued development in Asia and its broader role in taking the all-inclusive concept beyond Mexico and the Caribbean.
That global footprint is worth remembering. Club Med operates mountain and international resort experiences in addition to tropical beach properties, making all-inclusive travel relevant to travelers who might never otherwise consider that vacation style.
At the time of this episode, Mark highlighted several Mexico resort promotions that could be paired with airfare to create a complete vacation package.
The featured offers included savings of up to 70% at RIU Hotels & Resorts, up to 25% at Hyatt Ziva all-inclusive resorts, and up to $600 in instant savings with Hyatt Inclusive Collection, which includes brands such as Secrets and Dreams. He also mentioned additional offers from Sheraton Buganvilias and Hilton all-inclusive properties. The offers discussed were bookable through September 30, 2026, according to the episode.
For this particular trip, the more important question is not simply which promotion has the largest percentage attached to it. Location matters enormously during Día de Muertos.
A Puerto Vallarta property near downtown can make it easier to move between resort time and festivities along the Malecón. A more distant resort may deliver a different beach experience but require taxis or longer transfers each time travelers want to participate in downtown activities.
That makes this a good example of value extending beyond the advertised discount. Resort location, all-inclusive benefits, airfare, transfers, room category and proximity to the experiences you actually traveled to see should all factor into the comparison.
Promotions and availability are capacity controlled and can change after publication.
Cruise travelers get a particularly interesting choice this week: book Alaska the familiar way, or spend substantially longer exploring it.
Patrick’s reaction to the new itineraries was straightforward. After experiencing a seven-night roundtrip Seattle cruise himself, he felt the trip ended too quickly. Mark agreed that seven days is still worthwhile when that is all the time a traveler has—but Holland America’s longer 2028 itineraries create some intriguing alternatives.
Holland America Line’s 2028 Alaska program ranges from seven to 18 days and includes several unusual itineraries.
The 11-day California to Alaska voyage travels from San Diego to Vancouver and includes Glacier Bay along with Juneau, Ketchikan, Wrangell, Klawock and Prince Rupert.
The 14-Day Great Alaska Explorer, roundtrip from Seattle, pushes farther into Alaska with Anchorage, Kodiak and Valdez while also featuring Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm/Dawes Glacier and scenic cruising through Nootka Sound.
For Mark, Kodiak and Valdez are particularly intriguing because he has not yet visited them.
The 18-Day Great Bear Rainforest & Alaska Explorer sails roundtrip from Vancouver and combines Alaska with British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest. Stops include Bella Bella, Homer, Kodiak, Anchorage and Valdez, along with Glacier Bay and scenic cruising through Nootka Sound.
A new 16-day version aboard Oosterdam includes Prince Rupert, Kodiak, Anchorage and Valdez, Hubbard Glacier and scenic passages including Johnstone Strait, Grenville Channel and Princess Royal Channel.
For travelers who have already completed a standard Inside Passage itinerary—or who simply want Alaska to be the main event rather than a one-week introduction—these longer sailings deserve serious consideration.
Princess Cruises is moving many future Caribbean calls away from Princess Cays and toward other Carnival Corporation destinations.
Recent schedule changes have shifted many calls to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, with Celebration Key appearing on other itineraries. Princess has not publicly detailed a long-term reason for the change, so speculation about the future of Princess Cays should remain exactly that: speculation.
For booked cruisers, the practical advice is simple: check your itinerary rather than assuming the private-destination stop shown when you first researched the cruise remains unchanged.
Margaritaville at Sea is growing from the older Paradise experience Patrick and Mark sailed together into a more ambitious product.
The new Beachcomber is scheduled to begin sailing from PortMiami in January 2027 on four- to eight-night Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries. One of its signature spaces will be Same Boat by Zac Brown, an artist-designed live-music venue developed with Zac Brown.
Patrick and Mark’s firsthand verdict on Paradise was mixed: they thought the ship itself needed improvement, but both remembered the food positively. That makes Beachcomber interesting because it provides a chance to see how far the young cruise brand can evolve its onboard product.
There is also a major fleet event planned for January 28, 2027, when Paradise, Islander and Beachcomber are scheduled to meet in Nassau. Zac Brown Band will perform an exclusive concert for guests sailing aboard the three ships.
Margaritaville at Sea also markets an Ultimate Paradise Pass for frequent cruisers. The current official 2026 terms differ from some details stated during the conversation: the cruise line currently advertises its Silver pass from $849, with unlimited eligible sailings through December 31, 2026 and bookings made from 30 days to 24 hours before sailing. Travelers interested in the pass should therefore check current terms rather than relying on older pricing or conditions.
The featured cruise value this week is Holland America’s Have It All Early Booking Bonus, which builds on the line’s standard Have It All package.
Eligible early bookings receive an upgrade to the Elite Beverage Package, Premium Wi-Fi, prepaid Crew Appreciation, specialty dining and shore-excursion credits of up to $300 per guest depending on cruise length. Holland America also includes a Best Price Guarantee under specified terms.
The value here is in the combined inclusions rather than a headline cruise fare. Drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, specialty dining and shore excursions are all vacation expenses that can otherwise add significantly to the total trip budget.
The transcript did not provide a specific ship, cabin category or cruise fare for this Cruise Deal of the Week, so those details should not be inferred.
Travelers considering Alaska in particular can compare available Holland America sailings and determine whether the enhanced package makes sense against cruise-only fares. Promotions, eligibility and benefits can change by sailing and booking date.
Travel insurance is not the glamorous part of vacation planning, but Mark considers it important—particularly when travelers assume their credit card already provides everything they need.
His advice is to read the actual policy and ask five questions:
Mark’s preference is a standalone travel-protection policy designed around the risks of the particular trip. Blue Planet Vacations currently provides access to Travelex Insurance Services for travelers who want to review available policies and coverage details.
Yes. Puerto Vallarta can be particularly appealing to leisure travelers because they can combine Día de Muertos festivities with a conventional beach vacation. Mark recommends it for precisely that combination.
Choose Oaxaca for deeper cultural immersion and Puerto Vallarta for a combination of culture and resort vacation. Neither is inherently better; they serve different trip styles.
Plan enough time to be in your destination before November 1 and remain through November 2 if the celebration is your primary reason for traveling. Events often begin earlier, but schedules vary by destination and year, so verify local programming before finalizing flights.
Pan de muerto is a traditional bread associated with Mexico’s Día de Muertos season. It is one of Mark’s favorite parts of traveling in Mexico during the celebration.
A 14-day cruise can provide considerably more destination depth, but it requires more vacation time and a larger trip budget. Holland America’s 14-day 2028 itinerary reaches Anchorage, Kodiak and Valdez and includes multiple scenic-cruising experiences that are not possible on many standard seven-day itineraries.
The package includes shore-excursion credit, specialty dining and enhanced benefits such as the Elite Beverage Package, Premium Wi-Fi and prepaid Crew Appreciation on eligible bookings. Exact benefits and eligibility should be confirmed for the selected sailing.
Yes, especially when the financial exposure from cancellation, medical treatment or evacuation would be difficult to absorb personally. Travelers should compare policies based on actual benefits and exclusions rather than assuming every form of “travel insurance” provides equivalent protection.
A Day of the Dead trip has more moving parts than simply choosing a resort. The right destination, hotel location, travel dates and cultural experiences can dramatically change the vacation.
For Puerto Vallarta, for example, a professional travel advisor can compare beachfront resorts near the Malecón with properties farther along the coast, package airfare with accommodations, evaluate current promotions and help determine whether an all-inclusive or room-only stay better fits how much time you expect to spend exploring town.
Blue Planet Vacations can help compare and price a Mexico vacation built around Día de Muertos, or help evaluate Holland America’s longer Alaska itineraries and available cruise promotions. Blue Planet Vacations can be reached at 888-718-7717.
A beach can be part of a great Mexico vacation without being the entire reason for going.
Day of the Dead in Mexico offers travelers an opportunity to understand traditions, food, art and remembrance in a much more meaningful context. Oaxaca can put culture at the center of the journey; Mexico City offers the scale of a major capital; Xcaret makes traditions accessible from the Riviera Maya; and Puerto Vallarta creates the combination Mark particularly likes—culture by day or evening, with a beachfront vacation waiting nearby.
Then there is Alaska, where this week’s lesson is equally simple: sometimes more time in the destination really does change the trip.
Inside Travel Talk combines current travel news with firsthand experience and professional travel insight. Patrick Wiscombe brings the perspective of an experienced radio and podcast host and traveler, while Mark Faldmo is a professional travel advisor and owner of Blue Planet Vacations. This episode draws especially on Mark’s firsthand Day of the Dead experiences in Mexico, his stays at Mexican resorts and both hosts’ cruise experiences, while keeping personal preferences distinct from verified travel information.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
A seasonal nonstop flight between Salt Lake City and Lima puts Peru travel from Salt Lake City in the spotlight this week, while major U.S. airlines are opening more ways to reach Europe beyond the usual gateways. Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo also look at Fiji airfare, Disney holiday travel and live sports aboard Delta international flights. Then, in Just Cruising, the focus shifts to a destination-driven Celestyal voyage through Spain, Gibraltar and Morocco, Oceania Cruises’ next generation of ships, new U.S. cruise homeports and an important warning about European carry-on baggage rules.
Machu Picchu in Peru surrounded by green Andes mountains
This episode is largely about access and itinerary design. A nonstop Salt Lake City–Lima flight can make Peru considerably easier for Western U.S. travelers, but Mark recommends thinking beyond Machu Picchu and combining the Amazon, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Lima into a more complete journey. Europe is becoming easier to approach differently, too, as airlines add routes to cities such as Porto, Vienna and Marseille. On the cruise side, Mark’s featured Celestyal sailing illustrates another trend: choosing a smaller, destination-focused ship because of where it goes rather than making the ship itself the vacation.
Is there a nonstop flight from Salt Lake City to Lima, Peru?
Delta is scheduled to operate seasonal nonstop service between Salt Lake City and Lima. The episode identifies the seasonal window as December 1 through January 31, creating a particularly convenient Peru option for Utah travelers and useful connections for some travelers elsewhere in the West.
How many days should you plan for Peru?
About nine days can create a strong introductory itinerary if carefully planned. Mark suggests combining roughly three nights in the Amazon with Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and time in Lima, although travelers can easily extend the trip.
What is Celestyal’s December 5, 2026 Mediterranean cruise?
Celestyal’s seven-night Mediterranean Splendor itinerary sails from Barcelona to Lisbon, visiting Malaga, Gibraltar, Casablanca and Cadiz. Celestyal currently confirms the December 5 departure and itinerary on its website.
Is Disney Cruise Line returning to New York?
Yes. Disney Cruise Line has confirmed Disney Wish sailings from New York in its fall 2027 program, including itineraries visiting Bermuda and Atlantic Canada.
Are European carry-on limits the same as U.S. airline limits?
No. Carry-on dimensions, weights and fare restrictions can vary by airline. Lufthansa, for example, currently specifies a carry-on allowance of up to 8 kilograms on applicable economy travel, reinforcing the need to check every operating carrier on a multi-airline itinerary.
Two trips can visit the same continent and feel completely different depending on the route. That idea connects much of this episode. Peru becomes more interesting when Machu Picchu is one part of the journey rather than the entire trip. Europe becomes more accessible when nonstop flights reach cities beyond London and Paris. And a Mediterranean cruise becomes more immersive when ports such as Gibraltar and Casablanca drive the decision. The recurring lesson is to design travel around the experience you want, not simply the most familiar gateway or biggest ship.
The first half of the show moves from South America to Europe, the South Pacific and Disney parks, with one theme tying much of it together: travelers are getting more interesting choices for how they reach and experience destinations.
For Utah travelers, the appeal of Delta’s seasonal Salt Lake City–Lima service is straightforward: fewer connections and considerably simpler access to Peru.
Mark described the nonstop flight at roughly eight hours and 50 minutes, compared with itineraries that can become much longer when travelers must connect through another U.S. gateway. More broadly, Salt Lake City can function as a useful western connecting point for travelers who previously might have routed through another hub or changed airlines.
But airfare is only the beginning of the Peru conversation.
Machu Picchu may be Peru’s most famous attraction, but Mark strongly recommends building a more complete trip around it.
His preferred itinerary starts in the Amazon. Travelers can fly from Lima to Puerto Maldonado and continue by boat to a rainforest lodge. Mark has done this trip with family and remembers canoe outings, wildlife including monkeys and macaws, and a memorable birthday excursion when his niece was the only person in their group to catch a piranha.
From the Amazon, Mark recommends moving into the Andes for Cusco and the Sacred Valley before reaching Machu Picchu. Cusco provides Inca history and serves as an important gateway to the region, while the Sacred Valley adds mountain scenery, communities and archaeological context.
At Machu Picchu, Mark recommends at least one night—and potentially two—rather than treating the site as a rushed day trip. Lima can then finish the journey with another side of Peru’s history and culture.
That creates roughly a nine-day framework, depending on how much time travelers devote to Lima and the Machu Picchu area.
For travelers considering Peru, the real planning question therefore isn’t simply “How do I get to Machu Picchu?” It is “How do I combine Peru’s major experiences without making the itinerary exhausting?”
At the time of the episode, Mark found Delta round-trip basic-economy airfare between Salt Lake City and Lima starting at $771 per person, tied to the seasonal nonstop service operating between December 1 and January 31. Airfare is capacity controlled and can change at any time.
What makes the offer compelling isn’t simply the fare. For a Utah traveler, nonstop service removes a connection from a trip that already involves considerable ground transportation and potentially additional domestic flying within Peru.
The airfare can also serve as the foundation for a much more ambitious vacation incorporating:
This is exactly the type of trip where professional itinerary design can matter. Internal flights, altitude considerations, hotel locations, rail or ground arrangements and the sequence of destinations all influence how comfortably the trip flows.
Travelers interested in a similar trip can also explore Blue Planet Vacations’ previous coverage of small-group Peru travel and Machu Picchu.
Delta is partnering with Sport 24 to bring 24/7 sports programming to international passengers through Delta Sync Wi-Fi beginning in fall 2026.
The announced programming includes the NFL, NBA, Premier League, UEFA competitions, Formula 1 and Grand Slam tennis. Travelers will access Sport 24 and Sport 24 Extra on personal devices through the Delta Sync Wi-Fi portal; Delta says the feature is tied to SkyMiles membership.
It’s a relatively small amenity compared with schedule or seat choice, but on a long international flight it makes the onboard experience more useful—especially when a major game happens to coincide with nine hours over the Atlantic or Latin America.
One of the more consequential trends discussed this week is the expansion of U.S.-Europe flying for summer 2027.
Rather than concentrating every new flight on familiar gateways, airlines increasingly see opportunities in secondary cities and leisure markets. That can change how travelers build a European vacation: instead of landing in London or Paris and immediately connecting again, the first stop can become part of the itinerary.
American Airlines, for example, has announced seven new international routes for 2027. Philadelphia will gain service to Vienna, Porto and Reykjavik, while other additions include JFK–Amsterdam, JFK–Nice and Charlotte–Barcelona. American says its Philadelphia–Porto and Philadelphia–Vienna routes will use Airbus A321XLR aircraft.
Patrick singled out Porto as an especially underrated destination—a good example of why these routes matter beyond aviation news. A new gateway can encourage travelers to build an itinerary around a region rather than simply use the city as an arrival airport.
The episode also highlights Fiji Airways’ 75th-anniversary sale. Mark found round-trip fares discussed at $773 from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Fiji, as well as selected Los Angeles–Sydney itineraries at the same starting price.
His more interesting suggestion is to think of Fiji Airways as more than transportation to Fiji. A stopover can turn a long journey to Australia into two distinct vacation experiences.
Instead of treating Fiji solely as a connection, travelers could spend several days there before continuing to Sydney.
Mark is scheduled to visit Fiji in October, giving Inside Travel Talk another opportunity to return to the destination with fresh firsthand observations.
Because airfare sales are highly date- and capacity-sensitive, travelers should verify current fares and conditions before planning around the prices discussed in the episode.
Disneyland Resort has confirmed that its 2026 holiday season will run November 13, 2026 through January 6, 2027. Seasonal entertainment, decorations and attraction overlays make this one of the most distinctive periods of the year at the California resort.
Mark specifically highlighted the holiday transformations of attractions and Cars Land at Disney California Adventure.
The episode also discussed resort discounts at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Because Disney promotions depend heavily on dates, resort availability and booking conditions, travelers should verify current offers before choosing a hotel based on a particular discount.
This week’s Just Cruising conversation is unusually destination focused. Mark has selected a December Mediterranean cruise because he wants the ports—not because he is chasing the newest or largest ship. Meanwhile, Oceania is expanding its fleet and Philadelphia, New York and Galveston are becoming increasingly important pieces of the North American cruise map.
Mark Faldmo isn’t merely recommending this itinerary—he plans to sail it himself.
The seven-night Celestyal Mediterranean Splendor: Spain, Gibraltar & Morocco voyage departs Barcelona (Tarragona) on December 5, 2026 and finishes in Lisbon, calling at:
Barcelona (Tarragona) → Malaga → Gibraltar → Casablanca → Cadiz → Lisbon
Celestyal currently confirms both the itinerary and December 5 sailing date.
At the time of the episode, Mark quoted fares starting at $549 for an inside cabin and $1,329 for a balcony cabin. Those prices should be treated as a snapshot from the episode and are subject to availability and change.
The ship isn’t the primary attraction for Mark. The route is.
Celestyal has built much of its identity around destination-intensive Mediterranean cruising. On this sailing, Mark sees an opportunity to experience several places that will be new to him.
Barcelona provides the starting point and an opportunity for a pre-cruise stay. Mark wants to return to the Sagrada Família and visit Montserrat.
One correction is important here: the episode describes the Sagrada Família as having been “finally finished” in February 2026. The basilica itself is not yet fully complete. February 20 marked completion of the exterior of the Tower of Jesus Christ, the tallest central tower, while other construction continues.
From Barcelona, the ship continues to Malaga on Spain’s Costa del Sol and then Gibraltar, where British culture meets the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula.
For Mark, Casablanca is one of the itinerary’s biggest draws because it introduces North Africa into what otherwise could have been a conventional European cruise. Cadiz adds another historic Spanish port before the sailing ends in Lisbon.
Mark plans to stay an additional day in Lisbon because, aside from Barcelona, the ports will be new experiences for him.
Travelers who prioritize cultural variety, ports and destination time over blockbuster onboard attractions may find this style of cruise particularly appealing. Those interested in comparing this sailing with other Mediterranean options can browse current cruise offers from Blue Planet Vacations.
Oceania Cruises floated out Oceania Sonata on August 27, moving the vessel from dry dock to its fitting-out stage ahead of an August 2027 debut.
The ship will carry 1,390 guests and is the first of what Oceania now says will be five Sonata Class ships, with sister ship Oceania Arietta following in 2029 and additional vessels scheduled for 2032, 2035 and 2037.
That latest announcement clarifies an evolving detail: Oceania’s earlier introduction described four Sonata Class ships, but the current plan has expanded to five.
Mark describes Oceania as occupying an interesting position between conventional premium cruising and the luxury end of the market. He particularly values its food, smaller ships and destination emphasis, including longer port stays.
Norwegian Cruise Line began sailing from Philadelphia in April 2026, initially with Norwegian Jewel headed for Bermuda. NCL has an exclusive Philadelphia homeport agreement extending through March 2033.
Philadelphia gives Mid-Atlantic travelers another alternative to New York and Boston, with itineraries that can include Bermuda, Canada and New England, and Caribbean destinations.
There is an important current operational detail for 2026 passengers: while the new terminal is under construction, NCL says guests check in at the Clarion Hotel Philadelphia International Airport before complimentary transportation to the pier.
Disney Cruise Line’s fall 2027 deployment puts Disney Wish in New York, opening itineraries toward Bermuda and Atlantic Canada. Disney’s published schedule includes Bermuda voyages of varying lengths and Canada itineraries from New York.
For families in the Northeast, the significance is convenience: a Disney cruise can begin without first flying to Florida. It also gives Disney a way to pair its onboard family product with very different destinations from the Bahamas-focused itineraries many travelers associate with the brand.
Galveston’s growth as a cruise gateway continues.
On August 26, 2026, the Port of Galveston confirmed discussions with Royal Caribbean Group about developing a new terminal and berth at Pier 14. If completed, it would become the port’s fifth cruise terminal. The proposal was still under negotiation when announced.
Mark sees Galveston as especially useful for Western U.S. travelers because of its accessibility and its strong selection of Western Caribbean itineraries.
The hosts also discussed reports of very low-priced cruises to nowhere in China—voyages that leave port, spend their time at sea without visiting another destination and return to the original port.
Mark isn’t convinced by the concept. His own cruise preferences are strongly destination driven, and he sees exploring ports as a major reason to cruise in the first place.
That distinction is useful when choosing a cruise. Travelers who view the ship as a resort may happily prioritize sea days. Travelers like Mark, who cruise primarily to explore, should pay much more attention to port variety, time ashore and itinerary design.
A suitcase that qualifies as a carry-on for your transatlantic flight may not qualify on the next flight.
Mark’s tip this week is particularly important for multi-airline European itineraries: check the cabin-baggage rules of every operating airline, including codeshare partners.
Dimensions aren’t the only issue. Weight limits and fare rules matter too, and some European low-cost fares charge separately for use of the overhead bin.
Lufthansa provides a good illustration. Its current U.S. information lists an economy carry-on allowance of up to 8 kilograms, or about 18 pounds, while baggage allowances can vary according to route, cabin and fare.
Checking before departure can prevent an unpleasant bag-checking surprise at a European connection.
What should a first-time visitor combine with Machu Picchu?
Mark recommends combining Machu Picchu with Cusco, the Sacred Valley and, when time allows, the Peruvian Amazon and Lima. That approach provides a much broader view of Peru than a single-destination trip.
Is December a good time for a Mediterranean cruise?
December can appeal to travelers who prioritize destinations and lighter crowds over beach weather. Temperatures are cooler and conditions can vary, but cities such as Barcelona, Malaga, Casablanca, Cadiz and Lisbon remain rich cultural destinations outside the peak summer season.
Where does Celestyal’s December 5, 2026 cruise go?
The seven-night sailing travels from Barcelona (Tarragona) to Lisbon with calls at Malaga, Gibraltar, Casablanca and Cadiz.
Is the Sagrada Família finished?
No. A major milestone occurred on February 20, 2026, when the exterior of the Tower of Jesus Christ was completed, but construction continues elsewhere at the basilica, including work connected with the Glory façade.
What kind of cruise traveler may like Oceania Cruises?
Oceania can be particularly attractive to travelers who value smaller ships, destination-oriented itineraries and a strong culinary focus. Mark views the brand as sitting near the boundary between premium and luxury cruising.
Why cruise from Philadelphia instead of New York?
For travelers in Pennsylvania and surrounding Mid-Atlantic markets, Philadelphia can reduce the need to travel to New York or Boston before a cruise. Norwegian is using the homeport for destinations including Bermuda and Canada/New England.
Trips like Peru and destination-intensive Mediterranean cruises have a lot of moving pieces. Peru can involve international and domestic flights, altitude changes, rainforest lodges, rail or ground transportation and carefully timed stays around Machu Picchu. A Barcelona-to-Lisbon cruise raises different questions: airfare into one city and home from another, pre- and post-cruise hotels, cabin selection and deciding where shore excursions are worthwhile.
That’s where a professional travel advisor can add practical value. Mark Faldmo and the Blue Planet Vacations team can help travelers compare options, coordinate the pieces and price the complete vacation rather than evaluating each component in isolation.
Request vacation planning assistance from Blue Planet Vacations at 888-718-7717.
Travelers can also subscribe through the Blue Planet Vacations website for travel ideas and current vacation offers.
This week’s conversation shows why route planning deserves as much attention as the destination itself. Peru travel from Salt Lake City becomes more practical with nonstop Lima service, new European gateways can change the shape of an entire itinerary, and a smaller Mediterranean cruise can connect several cultures in one week.
Whether the goal is watching macaws in the Peruvian Amazon, walking through Casablanca, exploring Porto or beginning a cruise closer to home, the most interesting travel opportunities often appear when travelers look beyond the obvious route.
Inside Travel Talk combines current travel developments with firsthand experience and professional travel insight. Patrick Wiscombe brings the perspective of an experienced radio and podcast host, while Mark Faldmo is a professional travel advisor and owner of Blue Planet Vacations. In this episode, Mark’s firsthand Peru travels inform his recommended itinerary, and his upcoming Celestyal sailing provides a real-world perspective on why destination-focused travelers may choose an itinerary for its ports rather than its ship.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
A surprisingly low Hawaii travel deal from Salt Lake City leads this week’s Inside Travel Talk, with round-trip Honolulu airfare appearing at $404 and five-night Waikiki packages starting below $1,000 per person at the time of the episode. Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo also explore the U.S. Virgin Islands, explain why timing matters when buying travel insurance, and look at airline changes affecting passenger comfort. In Just Cruising, the conversation turns to Norwegian Cruise Line’s short-cruise strategy, Celebrity Cruises’ expanding Alaska program and three cruise deals ranging from a $349 Pacific Coastal sailing to an 11-night Canada and New England itinerary.
Trunk Bay St. John U.S. Virgin Islands
This episode illustrates two themes travelers should watch: unusually attractive pricing can reward flexibility, while booking early can matter when the right cruise itinerary or travel-protection benefit is at stake. Mark Faldmo, a professional travel advisor and owner of Blue Planet Vacations, sees particular value in combining low Hawaii airfare with hotel promotions rather than evaluating flights alone. Meanwhile, cruise lines continue investing heavily in short cruises and Alaska. Current announcements support that trend: Norwegian plans a full summer of short Bahamas cruises aboard Norwegian Aqua in 2028, while Celebrity has already begun releasing its 2028-2029 deployment calendar.
At the time of the episode, Southwest was displaying select round-trip fares from Salt Lake City to Honolulu for $404. Mark said availability was limited on many dates and flexibility was important.
No. U.S. citizens traveling between the United States and St. Thomas, St. Croix or St. John do not need a U.S. passport, according to the U.S. State Department. A passport is still useful if your plans include nearby international destinations such as the British Virgin Islands.
Generally, consider travel insurance soon after making your initial trip deposit. Some benefits and waivers can depend on purchasing coverage within a specified period after that first payment, so waiting until final payment can reduce your options. Policy terms vary, making it important to review the actual coverage.
Yes. Norwegian Cruise Line says Norwegian Aqua will spend its first full summer season operating three- and four-night round-trip Bahamas cruises from Miami in 2028.
Celebrity says its Alaska, Hawaii and South America 2028-2029 programs are scheduled to open for booking September 1, 2026. Europe, Bermuda, Canada and New England 2028 itineraries are already on sale.
This week’s topics have more in common than they initially appear to. Whether deciding when to grab a Hawaii fare, when to insure a vacation or when to reserve a future Alaska cruise, timing can substantially affect a traveler’s choices. The lowest advertised price is only part of the equation. Schedule flexibility, hotel quality, cabin category, deposit terms, insurance coverage and itinerary all influence whether an offer is actually a good fit.
American Airlines has announced a significant narrowbody-cabin overhaul that includes seatback entertainment at every seat, additional premium seating and updated interiors.
The airline says new Airbus and Boeing deliveries will begin arriving with its next-generation displays in 2028, while existing aircraft will be retrofitted. American expects the fleetwide installation to be completed by the early 2030s. The screens are expected to offer 4K displays, Bluetooth audio, USB-C charging and personalized entertainment features. Premium seating is also expected to grow from roughly 25% to about 40% of seats on narrowbody departures.
For travelers, the larger story is competition. Airlines are increasingly using cabin experience—not simply schedule and fare—to differentiate themselves. Patrick was surprised American had moved away from screens on many narrowbody aircraft in the first place, while Mark viewed the reversal in the context of American competing more aggressively with Delta and United.
The hosts also discussed airlines tightening procedures around beverages served before departure. The practical takeaway is simple: passengers in premium cabins should not be surprised when flight attendants retrieve airline-provided glasses and service items before the aircraft leaves the gate.
The passenger experience may seem like the obvious issue, but cabin preparation and safety duties take priority as an aircraft moves toward departure. For most premium travelers, this should amount to a minor change rather than a meaningful reduction in the onboard experience.
Privacy doors have become a defining feature of some new business-class products, but enclosing a passenger’s space introduces additional certification considerations.
The hosts highlighted the tension between airlines wanting highly private suites and regulators needing to evaluate how cabin features interact with emergency procedures. For passengers, the broader lesson is that an airline announcing a new seat does not necessarily mean every feature will be operational immediately. New aircraft, retrofits, supply-chain constraints and certification can all affect rollout timing.
The U.S. Virgin Islands are enjoying strong tourism momentum. The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism reported 303,388 arrivals during the first quarter of 2026, up 12% year over year. St. Thomas recorded 246,772 arrivals, a 15% increase.
That popularity makes sense to Mark. The islands offer many of the qualitys travelers want from an international Caribbean vacation while removing several logistical hurdles for U.S. travelers.
For a first U.S. Virgin Islands vacation, Mark recommends beginning with St. Thomas. It offers the most developed tourism infrastructure of the three principal islands, along with restaurants, shopping, nightlife and beaches such as Magen’s Bay.
For visiting St. John St. Thomas also works well as a base.
St. John is Mark’s standout choice for natural beauty, particularly Trunk Bay. He recommends making time to swim and snorkel there.
That undeveloped character is no accident. The National Park Service says roughly two-thirds of St. John lies within Virgin Islands National Park, which protects beaches, tropical forest, coral reefs, historic sites and other landscapes.
Mark’s appreciation is based on firsthand experience. He described Trunk Bay as one of the most beautiful places he has visited in the Caribbean and recalled enjoying views from St. John toward the nearby British Virgin Islands.
St. Croix is the largest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands. Mark sees it as an appealing choice for travelers who want a mix of culture, history, food and a somewhat less crowded atmosphere.
For repeat Caribbean travelers, that can make St. Croix particularly interesting: it offers a different rhythm from the busier tourism centers of St. Thomas.
For U.S. travelers, the practical advantages are substantial. The U.S. dollar is the local currency, English is the official language, and U.S. citizens do not need a passport for domestic travel to the territory.
One quirk deserves advance warning: traffic drives on the left. The U.S. Virgin Islands tourism authority confirms that a valid U.S. driver’s license is accepted for 90 days.
A listener question brought up one of the episode’s most useful planning discussions: should travelers buy insurance when they make their first deposit or wait until final payment?
Mark recommends looking at travel protection soon after the initial trip deposit.
That timing can matter because certain policy benefits may have purchase deadlines tied to the initial deposit date. Pre-existing-condition waivers and optional cancel-for-any-reason coverage are examples where timing may matter, although exact requirements vary by insurer and policy.
Mark has also seen travel insurance help clients firsthand through his work as a professional travel advisor. He emphasized that modern policies can include benefits travelers may not immediately associate with insurance, including automated payments for qualifying flight disruptions, airport-lounge benefits on some policies and travel-assistance or concierge services.
Travelers should compare the actual policy wording rather than selecting coverage solely on price.
The hosts also discussed countries imposing health-insurance requirements. Kenya is a good example of why requirements should be verified shortly before departure: Kenyan law and regulations contain travel-health-insurance provisions for non-Kenyan visitors, including coverage for emergency medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation. Travelers should consult current official requirements before departure rather than relying on an older article or podcast episode.
The episode’s headline Hawaii travel deal from Salt Lake City started with round-trip airfare to Honolulu displayed at $404 on select fall dates.
Mark said some dates he checked had only four to six seats remaining at the lowest fare, and the pricing was not available on every flight. That makes schedule flexibility especially important.
He then compared airfare with five-night hotel packages for October 25-30. At the time of the episode, examples included:
Mark singled out Outrigger Waikiki Paradise as a hotel he personally likes because of its Waikiki location, despite not being directly on the beach. He also considers Hilton Hawaiian Village a favorite option and noted that comparable packages there had previously priced much higher in his searches.
The episode also referenced additional Blue Planet Vacations promotional pricing at participating Hyatt and Outrigger properties. Those supplier-specific discounts should be reconfirmed when requesting a quote.
The key lesson is to compare the total vacation cost, not airfare in isolation. A low airfare paired with an expensive hotel may be less attractive than a package that combines both components at favorable contracted pricing.
All quoted fares and package prices were available at the time of the episode and are capacity controlled and subject to change.
Cruise lines are placing newer ships into markets once associated primarily with older vessels. At the same time, Alaska continues attracting additional capacity as travelers pursue destination-focused cruising. Both developments point toward cruise lines using their newest hardware more strategically.
Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed that Norwegian Aqua will spend its first full summer season in 2028 operating three- and four-night round-trip Bahamas cruises from Miami.
That is notable because short cruises have historically been a way for cruise lines to introduce new passengers to cruising without requiring a full week away.
Mark sees the move as smart competitive positioning. Carnival has long demonstrated the strength of the three- and four-night market, and putting a modern ship into that category gives Norwegian a more compelling product for travelers seeking a long-weekend escape.
Mark has sailed Norwegian Prima, the predecessor in the Prima-class family, and came away impressed with the ship. Patrick also discussed his firsthand experience aboard Norwegian Aqua.
The episode also discussed a larger fleet transition involving Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Patrick and Mark framed the expected departure of older ships alongside a substantial newbuild pipeline as a fleet-modernization story. For travelers, fleet age matters less than product fit, but newer ships often introduce updated accommodations, restaurants, public spaces, entertainment and technology.
Alaska remains one of the cruise industry’s most competitive destinations, and Celebrity Cruises is adding capacity for 2028.
For Patrick and Mark, the demand is understandable. Both have traveled in Alaska and spoke enthusiastically about the destination. Patrick felt that seven days went by too quickly and described the scenery as breathtaking. Mark likewise considers Alaska a personal favorite.
Celebrity’s broader 2028-2029 deployment is rolling out in stages. Summer 2028 Japan, Europe, Bermuda, Canada and New England sailings are already open. Alaska, Hawaii and South America are scheduled to open September 1, 2026, followed by Australia and winter Asia on September 29.
For travelers targeting a specific ship, cabin or Alaska itinerary, booking when schedules first open can provide the widest selection. Deposit and cancellation terms should always be checked before assuming a deposit is refundable.
This week produced three cruise deals rather than one.
The standout value was a five-night Pacific Coastal Princess cruise departing May 13, 2027, sailing from Los Angeles to Vancouver with calls in San Francisco and Victoria.
At the time of the episode, Mark found inside cabins from $349 per person, compared with a referenced regular fare of $889, while balconies started at $514 per person.
Mark would choose the balcony at that price difference.
He also likes the itinerary itself. Repositioning cruises can deliver unusually attractive pricing, and this sailing gives passengers a longer Victoria visit than many Alaska itineraries. Mark specifically recommends Butchart Gardens during the spring and mentioned Red Fish Blue Fish as one of his favorite casual fish-and-chips stops in Victoria.
Celebrity’s Canada and New England program produced another attractive example: an 11-night round-trip Boston sailing discussed at $1,225 per person for the September 13, 2027 departure.
The itinerary discussed included Rockland, Halifax, Sydney, Charlottetown, Quebec City and Portland, along with sea days. These all have some great shore excursion options.
Celebrity’s current promotion advertises 75% off the second guest on eligible non-refundable fares, with additional savings that vary by stateroom and sailing. Because promotional terms and individual departure prices change, travelers should verify the exact sailing before booking.
Mark has long wanted to sail the St. Lawrence River, making Quebec City one of the itinerary’s personal draws for him.
The third example was aimed squarely at travelers looking for an inexpensive short escape. Mark found select four-night MSC Bahamas cruises from Miami in September starting around $176-$179 per person at the time of the episode.
The itinerary discussed included Nassau and an extended visit to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Both hosts have visited Ocean Cay. Their experience is part of what makes this deal interesting: they were impressed by how spacious the island could feel even when thousands of passengers were visiting. Mark also noted that the vegetation has matured since their earlier visits, giving the destination a lusher appearance.
As with all cruise fares, travelers should compare the full price, including taxes, fees, cabin selection and any desired onboard packages.
St. Thomas is a practical starting point for many first-time visitors. It combines beaches, restaurants, shopping and easy tourism infrastructure while making a day trip to St. John relatively straightforward.
Yes, especially for travelers interested in beaches, snorkeling and protected landscapes. Roughly two-thirds of St. John is part of Virgin Islands National Park, and Trunk Bay is one of its best-known attractions.
Not necessarily. Some benefits can depend on buying coverage within a certain period after the initial trip deposit, so travelers should compare policies soon after booking rather than automatically waiting until final payment.
Cruise lines are increasingly putting modern ships into short-cruise markets. Norwegian Aqua’s planned three- and four-night Bahamas season in 2028 gives travelers access to a newer ship without committing to a weeklong vacation.
It can be. Ships moving between seasonal homeports sometimes produce attractive fares, and the Princess Pacific Coastal example discussed in this episode combines a low fare with desirable calls in San Francisco and Victoria.
Not if you care about a particular itinerary, cabin or ship. Celebrity is already releasing portions of its 2028-2029 schedule, and booking early can provide a broader selection. Always verify deposit and cancellation conditions before committing.
Hawaii packages, Alaska cruises and Canada/New England sailings all reward careful comparison. A professional travel advisor can evaluate more than the headline fare—hotel location, flight schedule, cruise cabin, itinerary, promotion rules, transfers, travel protection and the total trip price all matter.
Mark Faldmo and the advisors at Blue Planet Vacations can help compare the available options and determine which promotion makes sense for your travel style. Request a vacation quote from Blue Planet Vacations when you are ready to price a Hawaii getaway, U.S. Virgin Islands vacation or future cruise.
Travelers can also follow Inside Travel Talk for new travel ideas, changing offers and future episodes.
This week’s Hawaii travel deal from Salt Lake City is a reminder that excellent vacation values still appear when travelers can adjust their dates. But price is only half the story. The U.S. Virgin Islands discussion shows the value of matching a destination to your travel style, while the cruise news demonstrates why planning well ahead can matter when ships and itineraries first go on sale.
Whether the next trip is five nights in Waikiki, a Caribbean beach vacation or Alaska in 2028, understanding the complete vacation—not merely its advertised price—is what turns an appealing deal into the right trip.
Inside Travel Talk combines current travel news with firsthand travel experience and professional industry insight. Patrick Wiscombe brings the perspective of an experienced radio and podcast host and traveler. Mark Faldmo is a professional travel advisor and owner of Blue Planet Vacations. This episode also draws on the hosts’ firsthand experiences in Alaska, the U.S. Virgin Islands, aboard Norwegian ships and at Ocean Cay, while current factual claims have been checked against authoritative sources where appropriate. The editorial approach follows the show’s standards for experience, transparency and traveler usefulness.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
What if your next vacation helped you disconnect from technology, explore Europe’s Christmas markets, or sail the Mediterranean with free airfare? This week on Inside Travel Talk, we explore some of the most interesting 2026 travel deals and cruise news. We cover the strange case of airline “window seats” without windows, a new way to check bags the night before a flight, and encouraging news about mishandled luggage. Then, we escape to digital detox vacations low-tech Caribbean resort before heading to sea for new MSC Cruises dining, AmaWaterways Christmas market cruises, Celestyal’s expanding Mediterranean itineraries, and an impressive Viking Ocean Cruises deal.
On This Week’s EpisodeThis week’s first segment mixes practical travel advice with a vacation trend that feels like an antidote to modern life. We start in the skies with airline seating and baggage news. Then, we head somewhere much quieter: a Caribbean resort where disconnecting may be the greatest luxury of all.
If you specifically pay for or select a window seat, should there actually be a window?
That question sits at the center of ongoing litigation involving United Airlines. Some aircraft have seats positioned beside a solid wall instead of a traditional window. However, airline seat maps may still identify these seats as window seats.
For travelers, the lesson goes beyond the lawsuit. Research your seat before selecting it, especially on a long flight.
Mark recommends checking detailed aircraft seating information before booking. These resources can identify missing windows, narrower seats, limited recline, restroom proximity, and other potential drawbacks.
A few minutes of research can make a significant difference during several hours in the air.
Early morning flights can create stressful airport mornings. United Airlines is trying to make them easier.
At Chicago O’Hare, eligible travelers can use a Twilight Bag Drop service to check luggage the evening before certain early departures. Instead of managing checked bags before sunrise, travelers can handle that task the previous evening.
Similar services have existed internationally, but the concept remains relatively uncommon among U.S. airlines.
For travelers staying near an airport, this could make early departures considerably easier. It may also signal a broader shift toward reducing airport friction before morning flights.
Here is some encouraging airline news: fewer bags are being mishandled.
Improved tracking technology and baggage systems are helping airlines reduce problems. However, delayed connections and tight transfer times remain major causes of baggage disruption.
One simple travel tip can provide additional peace of mind: place a personal tracking device inside checked luggage.
A tracker cannot prevent a bag from being delayed. However, knowing where your suitcase is located can be extremely useful when something goes wrong.
Sometimes the greatest luxury is turning everything off.
A growing travel trend called low-tech luxury encourages travelers to disconnect from screens and reconnect with their destination. Some resorts eliminate televisions, limit Wi-Fi, create phone-free spaces, or build entire wellness experiences around digital detoxing.
COCOS Hotel in Antigua offers a compelling example.
This adults-only, all-inclusive resort features 44 private Caribbean-style cottages set along a hillside between two white-sand beaches. The setting emphasizes ocean views, privacy, romance, and simplicity rather than constant digital stimulation.
The resort’s philosophy centers on experiencing the people and place around you.
That makes this style of vacation especially appealing for couples and honeymooners. It also works for travelers who simply feel overwhelmed by constant notifications and screen time.
Instead of scrolling through someone else’s vacation, you can actually experience your own.
Travelers inspired by Caribbean escapes can also explore Blue Planet Vacations’ Sun & Fun vacation offers, including beach destinations and resort packages.
If low-tech luxury sounds appealing, this week’s Travel Deal of the Week may provide the perfect excuse to escape.
Travelers can save up to $400 per reservation on qualifying Caribbean all-inclusive vacation packages. The featured offer requires a minimum four-night air-and-hotel package and must be booked by July 31.
Transfers, excursions, and other vacation experiences can also be added when building a customized itinerary.
Fall can be an excellent time to consider Caribbean travel. Depending on the island, travelers may find attractive resort values and fewer peak-season crowds.
However, destination selection matters during hurricane season. A professional travel advisor can help compare islands, resorts, insurance options, and flexible booking strategies.
The bigger opportunity is customization.
An all-inclusive vacation does not have to mean choosing the first resort that appears online. Adults-only escapes, wellness resorts, romantic retreats, active resorts, and low-tech luxury experiences can create completely different vacations.
The right resort should match how you actually want to travel.
This episode highlights an important change in travel: convenience and experience now matter as much as destination.
Airlines are experimenting with easier baggage handling. Hotels are creating intentional digital-detox experiences. Cruise lines are developing more immersive dining and destination-focused itineraries.
Meanwhile, strong travel promotions can create opportunities for travelers willing to plan strategically.
The key is not simply finding the lowest price. It is finding the right experience at the right value.
Would you choose a low-tech Caribbean escape where you can disconnect completely? Or would you rather explore Christmas markets along a European river?
Perhaps Mediterranean history, cuisine, and coastal scenery are calling instead.
Your answer is often the best place to begin planning your next vacation.
In this week’s Just Cruising segment, we look at how cruise lines continue to evolve beyond traditional itineraries. MSC Cruises is experimenting with immersive Asian dining. AmaWaterways is going deeper into Germany’s Christmas markets. Celestyal is expanding westward across the Mediterranean. Finally, Viking delivers one of the most notable 2026 travel deals and cruise news offers of the week.
MSC Cruises is bringing a new immersive Pan-Asian street food concept to MSC World Asia.
The venue is designed as a three-in-one experience. Guests can enjoy traditional sit-down dining, grab quick street-style bites, or watch live cooking demonstrations.
That combination reflects a larger cruise industry trend.
Dining is becoming entertainment and cultural immersion rather than simply another meal onboard.
For travelers who choose cruises partly because they love trying new foods, concepts like this make the ship itself part of the destination experience.
Travelers interested in MSC and other limited-time promotions can explore current Cruise Deals from Blue Planet Vacations.
Christmas market river cruises already rank among Europe’s most atmospheric winter vacations. Now AmaWaterways is adding another compelling option beginning in 2027.
The new itinerary travels between Frankfurt and Nuremberg, with stops that may include Bamberg, Würzburg, Wertheim, Rüdesheim, and Mainz.
Nuremberg remains one of Europe’s most famous Christmas market destinations. Meanwhile, smaller German cities provide a more intimate holiday atmosphere.
Imagine medieval squares illuminated by Christmas lights, handcrafted ornaments filling wooden stalls, and the aroma of seasonal foods drifting through historic streets.
River cruising makes these experiences especially convenient. Travelers unpack once while moving between destinations.
Featured pricing discussed on the show starts around $2,929 per person, including applicable promotional savings at the time discussed.
For additional inspiration, explore Blue Planet Vacations’ river cruise offers and bucket-list travel experiences.
Celestyal Cruises has traditionally focused heavily on Greece and Turkey. However, the cruise line is now expanding its Mediterranean footprint.
New itineraries reach destinations in Spain, Portugal, Morocco, France, Gibraltar, and Italy.
One standout option is a 14-night Mediterranean voyage connecting several of these regions.
Celestyal’s smaller ships can offer a different experience from today’s giant resort-style vessels. Its itineraries often emphasize destination time, unique port combinations, and more intimate cruising.
For travelers who care more about exploring ports than riding waterslides, that approach may be appealing.
This week’s standout cruise promotion comes from Viking Ocean Cruises.
Select fall 2026 Mediterranean sailings feature an unusually strong combination of incentives. The promotion discussed on the show includes free international airfare from select gateway cities, a complimentary beverage package, up to $500 shipboard credit per couple, and deposits starting at just $25.
The offer discussed during the episode was scheduled to expire July 31.
One featured itinerary is Journey to Antiquities, an eight-day voyage starting around $2,799 per person.
The itinerary travels from Rome toward Athens, with destinations including Naples, Messina in Sicily, Crete, and Ephesus in Turkey. It includes five guided tours across three countries.
Travelers with more time can consider Cities of Antiquity, a 15-day voyage starting around $3,999 per person.
That itinerary expands the experience with destinations including Valletta, Malta; Corfu; Olympia; Rhodes; and Santorini.
Valletta deserves special attention. Sailing into Malta provides one of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic cruise arrivals, with historic fortifications rising above the harbor.
Travelers should carefully review Viking’s payment and cancellation terms before booking. However, for those ready to travel this fall, this promotion creates an unusual opportunity.
You can also compare current promotions on Blue Planet Vacations’ Cruise Deals and Top 5 Cruise Deals This Week pages.
What is low-tech luxury travel?
It is a travel style designed to reduce digital distractions and encourage deeper connection with the destination.
Where is COCOS Hotel?
COCOS Hotel is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Antigua.
Are Christmas market river cruises worth considering?
Yes. They combine multiple European holiday destinations with convenient transportation and one hotel-style home base.
What is new with Celestyal Cruises?
Celestyal is expanding beyond its traditional Greece and Turkey focus into more Western Mediterranean destinations.
What makes the Viking promotion notable?
The featured offer combines select free airfare, onboard benefits, shipboard credit, and a reduced $25 deposit.
Key Takeaways
What should I look for when choosing an all-inclusive Caribbean resort?
Start with your travel style. Consider adults-only versus family-friendly, beach quality, dining, activities, resort size, and overall atmosphere. A travel advisor can help narrow hundreds of choices into a manageable shortlist.
What is a digital detox vacation?
A digital detox vacation intentionally reduces screen time. Some resorts remove televisions, limit connectivity, or encourage phone-free experiences so guests can focus on relaxation and connection.
When should I book a Christmas market river cruise?
Popular Christmas market departures can fill well in advance. Booking early often provides better cabin selection and more choices for pre- or post-cruise stays.
Are smaller cruise ships better for Mediterranean cruises?
It depends on your priorities. Smaller ships may offer unique ports and a more destination-focused experience. Larger ships often provide more onboard entertainment and amenities.
Why use a travel advisor for cruise deals?
Cruise promotions can involve fare rules, cabin categories, airfare benefits, deposits, and cancellation restrictions. An experienced advisor can help compare the complete value rather than focusing only on advertised pricing.
Inside Travel Talk combines current travel news with practical insight from experienced travel professionals.
Co-host and travel advisor Mark Faldmo has traveled millions of miles and brings extensive firsthand experience across cruises, resorts, escorted tours, and international destinations. The show focuses on helping travelers understand not only where to go, but how to travel more effectively.
Inside Travel Talk is presented by Blue Planet Vacations, where professional travel advisors help travelers compare destinations, cruise lines, resorts, promotions, and complex itineraries.
This week’s episode proves there is no single “right” way to travel.
Maybe your perfect vacation means turning off your phone in a private Caribbean cottage. Perhaps it means walking through a German Christmas market with a warm seasonal drink. Or maybe it means watching Valletta’s ancient fortifications appear as your cruise ship sails into Malta.
The latest 2026 travel deals and cruise news also show why timing matters.
Promotions change quickly. Cruise availability shifts. Airfare incentives appear and disappear. Yet the best vacation is rarely the one chosen simply because it was cheapest.
It is the trip that fits you.
That is where thoughtful travel planning becomes valuable. A knowledgeable travel advisor can help connect the pieces, from flights and hotels to cruise cabins, transfers, insurance, and unforgettable experiences.
So, explore the latest Blue Planet Vacations travel deals, browse current cruise promotions, discover more bucket-list travel ideas, and listen to more episodes of the Inside Travel Talk Podcast.
Most importantly, do not keep putting the world off until someday.
There will always be another email to answer and another task waiting at home. However, the opportunity to stand somewhere new, experience another culture, and create memories with people you love is worth making time for.
Get out and see the world while you can.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
If you’re looking for fresh vacation inspiration, this week’s Inside Travel Talk Podcast delivers plenty of ideas. From avoiding common long-haul flight mistakes to exploring the spectacular Canyon Spirit Train, the episode is packed with practical advice and exciting destinations. The show also highlights a unique New York City experience, Universal’s new family theme park, outstanding cruise offers, and an incredible British Isles group cruise that combines value with unforgettable sightseeing. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply dreaming about future adventures, this episode offers expert guidance from experienced travel advisor Mark Faldmo and host Patrick Wiscombe.
On This Week’s EpisodeEvery episode of Inside Travel Talk combines current travel news with practical advice from experienced travel professionals. This week, the spotlight shines on the Canyon Spirit Train, one of North America’s newest luxury rail experiences. The hosts also discuss smarter ways to prepare for long international flights, unique destinations many travelers overlook, and exceptional cruise offers that provide tremendous value. Together, these stories demonstrate how expert planning can transform an ordinary vacation into an unforgettable journey.
What is the Canyon Spirit Train?
Canyon Spirit is a luxury daytime rail experience connecting Salt Lake City, Moab, Glenwood Springs, and Denver. Unlike traditional overnight train journeys, guests stay in quality hotels each evening while enjoying spectacular scenery during daylight hours.
What is this week’s Travel Deal?
Listeners in Utah and Colorado can receive an additional $150 savings on qualifying Canyon Spirit packages for select 2026 departures when booking through Blue Planet Vacations.
What is this week’s Cruise Deal?
American Cruise Lines is offering free airfare plus savings of up to $1,600 per person on select Florida and Southeast itineraries.
Every great vacation begins long before you board a plane. In the first segment of the show, Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo share practical advice that can improve nearly every trip. They also introduce several destinations many travelers may not have considered before. From better flight habits to hidden attractions and luxury rail travel, the conversation focuses on making every journey more enjoyable while helping travelers avoid common mistakes.
Long international flights often determine how you’ll feel during your first days abroad. Fortunately, many travel problems are completely avoidable.
Mark highlights several mistakes he regularly sees travelers make.
Walking around the cabin barefoot may seem harmless, but it creates both safety and hygiene concerns. During turbulence, proper footwear provides much better stability. Additionally, airplane lavatories are never the place to be without shoes.
Choosing the wrong neck pillow is another surprisingly common mistake. Many travelers purchase one at the airport without trying it first. Instead, test several options before your trip to ensure proper support.
The conversation also covers sleep aids. While some medications help passengers rest, others can produce lingering grogginess or unexpected reactions. Every traveler responds differently, so experimenting during an international flight is rarely a good idea.
Finally, hydration remains one of the easiest ways to reduce jet lag. Drinking enough water throughout the flight helps your body adjust more quickly after crossing multiple time zones. Combined with getting quality sleep instead of watching movies for an entire flight, these simple habits can dramatically improve your arrival experience.
Most visitors associate New York City with Broadway, Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. However, the city also offers fascinating historical experiences beneath its busy streets.
The Catacombs by Candlelight Tour at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral provides visitors with a rare glimpse into centuries of New York history. Unlike many European catacombs, these underground burial vaults focus more on history than human remains, making the experience approachable for many travelers.
Guided entirely by candlelight, the tour offers a completely different perspective of Manhattan. It’s an excellent addition for repeat visitors looking to experience a side of New York that many tourists never discover.
Universal continues expanding beyond its flagship resorts by introducing a smaller theme park designed specifically for younger children.
Located in Frisco, Texas, the new destination features family-friendly attractions inspired by beloved franchises such as Shrek, Jurassic World, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, and more. Kid-sized rides, interactive play areas, splash zones, live entertainment, and an onsite hotel make it especially attractive for families with younger children.
Perhaps most appealing is the lower admission price compared to larger destination theme parks. Families can enjoy the Universal experience without the overwhelming crowds often found at its larger resorts.
The highlight of this week’s episode is the introduction to the Canyon Spirit Train, a premium rail experience that combines spectacular scenery, luxury service, and overnight hotel stays. Unlike traditional overnight trains, Canyon Spirit allows travelers to enjoy every mile of scenery during daylight before relaxing in comfortable hotels each evening. The result is a journey that feels more like a luxury land tour than conventional rail travel.
Beginning in either Salt Lake City or Denver, the route travels through some of the American West’s most breathtaking landscapes. Guests experience towering canyon walls, winding rivers, dramatic red rock formations, and mountain scenery while enjoying oversized panoramic windows and spacious seating.
One of the journey’s biggest advantages is that travelers never sleep onboard. Instead, overnight accommodations are provided in Moab and Glenwood Springs, giving guests time to recharge before another day of sightseeing.
Canyon Spirit is designed around the idea that the journey should be just as memorable as the destination.
In Moab, travelers can explore two of Utah’s most famous national parks.
Popular optional excursions include:
For travelers wanting an even bigger adventure, Canyon Spirit also offers packages connecting Las Vegas with Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks.
These itineraries include visits to:
This combination creates one of the most complete scenic vacations available in the western United States.
While the scenery receives much of the attention, Canyon Spirit’s onboard experience is equally impressive.
Guests travel in spacious dome coaches featuring panoramic windows, oversized reclining seats, and generous legroom. Unlike commercial airlines, passengers never feel crowded when fellow travelers recline their seats.
Premium amenities include:
Rather than simply serving meals, the hosts bring the journey to life by sharing fascinating stories about the landscapes, wildlife, rail history, and engineering marvels encountered along the route.
Accessibility also receives special attention. Wheelchair lifts, accessible accommodations, and carefully planned excursions ensure more travelers can enjoy the experience comfortably.
One of the biggest announcements during this week’s episode is an exclusive offer available through Blue Planet Vacations.
Residents of Utah and Colorado can receive an additional $150 savings on qualifying Canyon Spirit packages for select 2026 departures. Better yet, this discount stacks with existing Canyon Spirit promotions, creating exceptional value for travelers considering one of North America’s newest luxury rail journeys.
If you’ve been curious about scenic train vacations but weren’t interested in sleeping onboard, Canyon Spirit offers a refreshing alternative that combines rail travel with quality hotels, guided experiences, and outstanding service.
It’s exactly the kind of vacation where every detail has already been planned for you.
The Just Cruising segment continues to showcase why cruising remains one of the best values in travel. This week’s discussion highlights everything from intimate sailing ships to Royal Caribbean’s newest ship designs, an exciting escorted British Isles cruise, and one of the strongest American Cruise Lines promotions we’ve seen in quite some time.
Whether you enjoy ocean cruising, small ship adventures, or river-style coastal cruising, this segment offers inspiration for nearly every type of traveler.
Few cruise vacations feel as authentic as sailing aboard Star Clippers.
Instead of massive floating resorts, these elegant tall ships rely on actual sails, creating an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and unforgettable. Mark describes Star Clippers as one of his personal favorite cruise experiences, thanks to its ability to visit secluded beaches and smaller ports that larger ships simply cannot access.
Now the experience has become even more attractive.
New inclusions now feature:
For travelers searching for something beyond the traditional mega-ship vacation, Star Clippers offers an unforgettable combination of sailing, adventure, and personalized service.
Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Discovery Class ships represent a significant shift in cruise design.
Rather than building even larger vessels, Royal Caribbean is developing ships sized specifically to transit the Panama Canal.
This seemingly small design change creates enormous flexibility.
These ships can now move efficiently between:
Because of their size, they’ll also be capable of visiting more unique destinations than today’s largest ships.
It’s an exciting development for travelers who appreciate modern amenities while still wanting access to more diverse itineraries.
One of the most exciting announcements during the show is Mark Faldmo’s hosted Best of the British Isles group cruise departing in May 2027.
Sailing aboard Princess Cruises’ Majestic Princess, this 12-day itinerary visits many of the British Isles’ most iconic destinations, including:
Travelers can also add a two-day London pre-cruise package before sailing.
Even more impressive is the value.
Group pricing is currently $500–$700 per person lower than booking directly with the cruise line, making this one of the strongest hosted cruise values available. With more than twenty cabins already reserved, early booking is highly recommended.
This week’s Cruise Deal of the Week deserves special attention.
American Cruise Lines is offering free airfare plus savings of up to $1,600 per person on select late fall departures.
Several itineraries stand out.
The Florida Gulf Coast & Keys cruise sails roundtrip from St. Petersburg and visits destinations including Key West and Dry Tortugas National Park.
Another itinerary cruises from Charleston to Amelia Island while visiting charming ports such as Savannah and Jekyll Island.
Mark also highlights the Great Rivers of Florida, which includes historic St. Augustine during its spectacular holiday lights season.
Unlike large ocean vessels, these intimate American Cruise Lines ships carry roughly 200 guests. Their smaller size allows access to ports that larger cruise ships simply cannot visit.
Because American Cruise Lines rarely discounts its itineraries this aggressively, this promotion represents one of the best values currently available for travelers interested in exploring America’s waterways.
Before planning your next vacation, keep these important travel insights in mind:
What is the Canyon Spirit Train?
The Canyon Spirit Train is a luxury daytime rail experience operating between Salt Lake City and Denver. Guests enjoy spectacular scenery during the day and stay in hotels overnight, creating a comfortable and immersive vacation.
How long is the Canyon Spirit journey?
Travelers can choose either a two-day or three-day itinerary, depending on where they begin and end their trip.
Is Canyon Spirit similar to Rocky Mountaineer?
Yes. Canyon Spirit is operated by the same company behind Rocky Mountaineer and offers a similar luxury experience tailored to the dramatic landscapes of the American Southwest.
Why are smaller cruise ships becoming more popular?
Smaller ships can visit ports that larger vessels cannot reach. They also provide a more relaxed atmosphere, personalized service, and unique itineraries.
What makes the Best of the British Isles cruise special?
This hosted group cruise combines outstanding pricing, carefully selected ports throughout England, Ireland, and Scotland, a London pre-cruise option, and the expertise of Blue Planet Vacations. Travelers also benefit from exclusive group rates that are currently hundreds of dollars lower than booking directly with the cruise line.
What is this week’s best cruise promotion?
American Cruise Lines is offering free airfare plus savings of up to $1,600 per person on select late fall departures, including Florida Gulf Coast, the Florida Keys, and Great Rivers of Florida itineraries.
Every week, Inside Travel Talk goes beyond the headlines to explain what travel news means for real travelers. Instead of simply announcing new destinations or promotions, hosts Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo provide practical advice that helps listeners make better vacation decisions.
Whether they’re discussing luxury rail journeys, cruise industry developments, family travel, or vacation planning strategies, the focus remains the same: helping travelers maximize their experiences while receiving exceptional value.
This combination of industry knowledge and real-world travel experience makes the podcast an excellent resource for both first-time travelers and seasoned explorers.
Experience
Mark Faldmo has spent decades helping travelers plan customized vacations around the world. His firsthand knowledge comes from personally visiting many of the destinations discussed on the show.
Expertise
The podcast provides expert commentary on cruises, escorted tours, luxury rail travel, family vacations, Europe, Alaska, river cruising, and emerging travel trends.
Authoritativeness
Inside Travel Talk is presented by Blue Planet Vacations, an established travel agency that specializes in cruises, escorted tours, custom vacations, and hosted group travel.
Trustworthiness
Rather than simply promoting destinations, the show provides honest travel advice, practical planning tips, and transparent discussions about promotions, pricing, and travel experiences to help listeners make informed decisions.
Whether you’re dreaming of a luxury rail journey through the American West, planning a cruise around the British Isles, or simply looking for smarter ways to travel, this week’s episode is filled with practical advice and inspiring ideas. The featured Canyon Spirit Train demonstrates how modern rail travel can combine breathtaking scenery with exceptional comfort, while the latest cruise news and exclusive travel offers provide even more reasons to start planning your next adventure. As always, the team at Inside Travel Talk and Blue Planet Vacations is committed to helping you travel smarter, discover new destinations, and make every vacation your best one yet.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
If you enjoy staying ahead of the latest travel trends, this episode of Inside Travel Talk is packed with practical advice and vacation inspiration. Patrick Wiscombe and travel advisor Mark Faldmo explore exciting travel news and travel deals, from the return of supersonic passenger flights to Europe’s latest entry requirement changes. They also explain how to travel confidently during Caribbean hurricane season, highlight two exceptional Fiji resorts, and share valuable vacation promotions. In the Just Cruising segment, they discuss Holland America Line’s expansion into year-round European cruising, Princess Cruises’ growing presence in Asia, and one of the strongest Disney Cruise Line promotions seen in years.
Fiji Sunset at Castaway Island
Travel advisors continue to play an essential role in helping travelers navigate changing regulations, weather concerns, and vacation planning. This episode explains how recent travel developments can affect future vacations while highlighting excellent opportunities to save on Fiji vacations and Disney cruises.
No. The European Union has delayed ETIAS until at least 2027.
Yes. Most travelers experience excellent weather. The highest storm risk typically occurs from mid-August through October.
Mark recommends Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island Fiji for different vacation styles.
Save up to $400 on qualifying Fiji vacation packages that include airfare and at least five hotel nights.
Disney Cruise Line is offering savings of up to $500 per guest on select sailings, creating savings of up to $1,500 for families sharing a stateroom.
This week’s opening segment focuses on helping travelers make smarter vacation decisions. Mark explains how international travel regulations continue to evolve while offering practical advice that removes much of the confusion surrounding Europe travel. The discussion then shifts toward the future of commercial aviation before tackling one of the most common summer travel concerns: Caribbean hurricane season. Finally, listeners receive two outstanding Fiji hotel recommendations and an excellent South Pacific vacation offer.
For travelers planning a European vacation, there is welcome news. The European Union has postponed implementation of the ETIAS travel authorization program until at least 2027. That means most U.S. travelers can continue visiting participating European countries without completing the additional online authorization process.
Mark explains that the delay stems largely from challenges surrounding Europe’s new Entry/Exit System (EES). The biometric system has created lengthy immigration delays at several airports. Some travelers have reported waiting hours simply to enter Europe. These operational issues have slowed the rollout of ETIAS.
The discussion also reminds listeners that the United Kingdom operates a separate electronic travel authorization system. Travelers visiting England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland should still verify current entry requirements before departure.
This segment reinforces why working with a professional travel advisor can prevent unexpected surprises before an international trip.
One of the most exciting stories of the episode explores the possible return of commercial supersonic air travel.
Several aerospace companies, including Boom Supersonic, continue developing aircraft capable of flying faster than the speed of sound while dramatically reducing the traditional sonic boom. Meanwhile, regulatory agencies are beginning to consider allowing supersonic flights over land.
If these aircraft enter commercial service, cross-country flights could eventually take only a few hours. Imagine flying from New York to Los Angeles in roughly two hours instead of five or six.
Although commercial service remains several years away, the technology represents one of the biggest aviation developments since the retirement of the Concorde. For frequent travelers, this could completely reshape long-distance air travel.
Many travelers immediately eliminate the Caribbean during hurricane season. However, Mark explains why that assumption often costs vacationers some of the year’s best travel values.
Hurricane season officially runs from June through November. However, the highest storm activity typically occurs between mid-August and October. Outside those peak weeks, many visitors experience beautiful sunshine and excellent beach weather.
Travelers who choose this season often benefit from:
The discussion also emphasizes the importance of purchasing travel insurance early. Most policies require coverage to be purchased before a storm receives an official name. Waiting too long may eliminate important hurricane-related protections.
For cruise travelers, hurricane season rarely means cancellation. Cruise lines generally adjust itineraries to avoid dangerous weather while still delivering enjoyable vacations.
Fiji remains one of the world’s most rewarding island destinations. During this episode, Mark highlights two resorts that consistently rank among his personal favorites.
The Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort sits along Fiji’s beautiful Coral Coast. It combines authentic Fijian culture with modern comforts. Families, couples, and multigenerational travelers all find excellent value here thanks to spacious accommodations, multiple restaurants, cultural activities, and stunning Pacific sunsets.
For travelers seeking a more secluded escape, Castaway Island Fiji delivers the classic South Pacific experience. Accessible by catamaran or helicopter, this private island offers exceptional snorkeling, coral reefs, beachfront bures, hiking trails, and unforgettable sunsets. Although popular with honeymooners, families also enjoy its relaxed atmosphere and authentic island setting.
Both resorts showcase different sides of Fiji while providing memorable experiences for nearly every traveler.
One of the biggest highlights of this week’s episode is an attractive Fiji vacation promotion.
Travelers can save up to $400 on qualifying Fiji vacation packages that include roundtrip airfare and at least five nights of accommodations.
Mark also explains an important planning consideration. Because travelers cross the International Date Line, five hotel nights often fit perfectly into a standard one-week vacation from the United States.
For many travelers, Fiji feels like a once-in-a-lifetime destination. However, promotions like this make the South Pacific more affordable than many people realize. Combined with outstanding resorts, warm hospitality, and unforgettable scenery, this week’s featured travel deal offers exceptional value for anyone dreaming of paradise.
The Just Cruising segment showcases several important developments shaping the cruise industry. From onboard policy changes to exciting new itineraries, listeners receive practical insights that can help them choose the right cruise vacation. Mark also highlights Holland America Line’s major investment in Europe, Princess Cruises’ expansion throughout Southeast Asia, and one of the strongest Disney Cruise Line promotions available this year. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or your twentieth, this segment demonstrates why cruising continues to offer outstanding value, convenience, and unforgettable travel experiences.
One of the more interesting cruise stories this week comes from Costa Cruise Line. The company has begun testing a policy that limits guests from taking buffet food back to their staterooms.
According to Costa, the change is intended to reduce food waste while improving onboard cleanliness. Instead, guests are encouraged to order room service when they want to dine in their cabins.
Although this policy currently applies only to Costa, it raises an interesting question about the future of cruise dining. Several cruise lines have already introduced room service fees over the past few years to reduce excessive food waste.
For most North American travelers, this isn’t something to worry about today. However, it serves as a reminder that cruise lines continually evaluate policies that improve efficiency while reducing unnecessary waste.
The discussion also highlights something many travelers overlook. Every cruise line operates differently. A knowledgeable travel advisor understands these differences and can recommend the cruise line that best matches each traveler’s expectations and vacation style.
Princess Cruises continues expanding its presence throughout Asia, creating exciting new opportunities for travelers looking beyond traditional Caribbean and Alaska itineraries.
Beginning in late 2027, Princess plans to station multiple ships in Singapore, including the Diamond Princess, Sapphire Princess, and Grand Princess. The expanded deployment will feature voyages ranging from 10 to 28 nights throughout Southeast Asia.
One itinerary highlighted during the episode visits several remarkable destinations, including:
These itineraries combine fascinating cultures, incredible cuisine, beautiful coastlines, and historic landmarks into one unforgettable vacation.
Even more impressive is the value. Mark notes that some 14-night sailings begin around $1,400 per person for an inside stateroom. That works out to roughly $100 per day before adding optional shore excursions.
For travelers searching for something different, Southeast Asia represents one of cruising’s fastest-growing destinations. The region offers tremendous cultural diversity while remaining surprisingly affordable.
One of the biggest cruise announcements of the week comes from Holland America Line.
Beginning in late 2027, the Nieuw Statendam will remain in Europe year-round rather than repositioning to the Caribbean during the winter months. This marks a significant expansion of Holland America’s European cruise program.
The new itineraries will include:
Perhaps the most exciting addition is a brand-new Christmas Market itinerary departing from Rotterdam. While Christmas Market River cruises have become extremely popular, this marks one of the first opportunities to experience Europe’s famous holiday markets aboard a large ocean cruise ship.
The itinerary includes ports such as:
Many ports feature overnight stays, allowing guests to enjoy festive evening markets, local cuisine, seasonal entertainment, and beautifully decorated city centers after day visitors have departed.
Mark also points out one feature that continues gaining popularity among experienced cruisers: overnight port stays.
Traditional cruises often allow only six to eight hours in port. While enjoyable, that limited time frequently forces travelers to choose only one major excursion.
Extended stays create far more flexibility.
Guests can enjoy:
One standout example is Holland America’s planned 37-hour stay in Alexandria, Egypt. That extended visit gives travelers time to explore both Alexandria and nearby Cairo, including the Pyramids of Giza and the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum.
For travelers who enjoy cultural immersion, overnight port calls can completely transform the cruise experience.
The featured Cruise Deal of the Week is one of the most compelling Disney Cruise Line promotions in recent years.
Disney rarely discounts its sailings. That makes this limited-time offer especially valuable for families planning a fall or holiday cruise.
Guests who book by August 30, 2026, can save:
Unlike many cruise promotions that apply only to the first two guests, this offer extends to additional passengers in many qualifying staterooms.
For a family of three sharing one balcony cabin, total savings can reach $1,500.
That level of savings is exceptionally rare on Disney Cruise Line.
The promotion applies to select departures aboard:
Guests can choose from itineraries departing:
The featured sailings operate between October and December, making them ideal for seasonal travel.
Many October departures include Disney’s incredibly popular Halloween on the High Seas celebrations.
Later departures transition into Disney’s magical Very Merrytime Cruises, featuring holiday decorations, themed entertainment, festive dining experiences, and seasonal character events.
Families looking for a memorable vacation during Halloween, Thanksgiving, or the Christmas season should pay close attention to this offer.
Many travelers mistakenly believe Disney Cruise Line is designed exclusively for families with young children. The reality is much different.
Disney has invested heavily in creating premium experiences for adults while still delivering unforgettable family vacations.
Adult guests can enjoy:
Meanwhile, children enjoy award-winning youth clubs filled with supervised activities throughout the day. That balance allows parents and grandparents to enjoy meaningful relaxation while younger travelers stay entertained. It’s one reason Disney consistently earns some of the highest guest satisfaction ratings in the cruise industry.
Throughout this segment, one message stands out clearly: today’s cruise industry offers more variety than ever before.
Travelers can now choose from expedition cruises, luxury voyages, holiday sailings, immersive cultural itineraries, and affordable family vacations across nearly every region of the world.
The key is finding the itinerary that best matches your travel style.
A professional travel advisor helps compare cruise lines, explain onboard differences, recommends shore excursions, monitor promotions, and maximize vacation value.
Instead of simply booking a cabin, experienced advisors help travelers build complete vacation experiences that match their interests, budget, and long-term travel goals.
Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply staying informed about the latest travel trends, this episode is packed with practical advice and travel inspiration. Here are the biggest takeaways from this week’s Inside Travel Talk podcast:
These insights highlight why staying informed about travel trends can lead to better vacations. Whether you’re dreaming of Europe, Fiji, the Caribbean, or your next cruise, this episode provides practical advice to help you plan with confidence.
Every episode of Inside Travel Talk brings you the latest travel news and travel deals to help you travel smarter and with greater confidence. This week, we explored Europe’s delayed ETIAS rollout, the future of supersonic flights, Caribbean hurricane season tips, two incredible Fiji resorts, and exciting developments from the cruise industry.
Whether you’re planning a European getaway, a South Pacific escape, or your next cruise vacation, expert advice can help you make the most of every trip. Be sure to subscribe to Inside Travel Talk for more travel inspiration, practical planning tips, and exclusive vacation offers from the travel experts at Blue Planet Vacations.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
If you’re planning a European vacation, this episode of Inside Travel Talk is packed with timely advice that could save you money while creating a better travel experience. Patrick Wiscombe and travel expert Mark Faldmo explore why Shoulder Season River Cruises is becoming the preferred way to experience the continent. They also discuss airline stopover programs that turn layovers into mini vacations, spotlight one of Rome’s best hotels, answer listener questions about New Orleans, and share one of the year’s best AmaWaterways river cruise promotions. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming about future travels, this episode offers practical advice, insider tips, and inspiration from experienced travel professionals.
Europe’s traditional summer travel season is no longer the only—or even the best—time to visit. Increasingly, experienced travelers are choosing spring and fall departures to enjoy cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and better values. Combined with airline stopover programs and immersive river cruising experiences, travelers can maximize both their vacation time and budget while enjoying a more authentic destination experience.
Durnstein – Shoulder Season River Cruises
The first half of this week’s podcast focuses on smarter ways to travel. Mark shares new airline trends that allow travelers to add exciting destinations without increasing airfare. The conversation also highlights one of Rome’s premier hotels, answers a listener’s question about visiting New Orleans, and wraps up with a travel promotion offering savings on domestic and international vacations. Throughout the segment, practical advice combines with firsthand experience to help travelers plan more memorable vacations.
Sometimes travel news doesn’t involve new aircraft or airport expansions. Sometimes it’s simply about bringing back a passenger favorite.
Delta Air Lines has officially returned Fresca to its onboard beverage selection after years away. While this might seem like a small announcement, frequent Delta flyers have been eagerly asking flight attendants when the citrus soda would return.
Mark also explains an interesting aviation fact. Changes in cabin pressure and humidity affect how passengers taste food and beverages. It’s the same reason ginger ale has long been one of the most popular drinks during flights. Fresca benefits from those same conditions, making it especially refreshing at cruising altitude.
It is a lighthearted story, but it also reminds travelers how airlines continually adjust their onboard experience based on customer feedback.
One of the most valuable discussions in this episode centers on airline stopover programs.
Many travelers confuse stopovers with layovers, but there is an important distinction. A layover usually lasts only a few hours. A stopover allows travelers to spend one or more nights exploring another destination before continuing to their final destination.
Several international airlines now encourage these longer stays without increasing airfare.
Some of the best programs include:
Instead of enduring one long travel day, travelers can enjoy two memorable destinations for nearly the same airfare.
This strategy is especially valuable for long-haul trips to Australia, New Zealand, or the South Pacific, where breaking up the journey creates a much more relaxing travel experience.
Finding the right hotel in Rome can completely shape your vacation.
This week’s featured property is the Grand Meliá Vatican, one of the closest luxury hotels to Vatican City.
Its location places guests within easy walking distance of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Yet the hotel still feels like a peaceful retreat away from Rome’s busiest neighborhoods.
One of its standout features is the large outdoor swimming pool, something surprisingly uncommon among Rome hotels.
History lovers will also appreciate that the hotel sits on the site of the ancient Villa Agrippina, adding another fascinating layer to the guest experience.
Mark recommends staying near the Vatican because the neighborhood offers a quieter atmosphere while still providing convenient access to Rome’s major attractions.
A listener heading to New Orleans for business asked how to make the most of three free days.
Mark’s answer highlights why New Orleans is far more than Bourbon Street.
His recommendations include:
Food also plays a starring role.
Travelers should sample:
These recommendations showcase New Orleans’ unique blend of history, architecture, music, and world-famous cuisine, making it one of America’s most rewarding cultural destinations.
One of the highlights of every episode is the Travel Deal of the Week, and this week’s promotion offers significant savings for travelers planning vacations before the end of the year.
Through July 23, 2026 travelers can save:
While the exact discount depends on the total package price, these promotions can make an already affordable vacation even more attractive.
Even more important, Mark reminds listeners not to wait until the last minute. Vacation pricing changes frequently, and many promotions are capacity controlled. Starting the planning process early provides the best opportunity to secure preferred travel dates, hotel choices, and promotional pricing.
One of the consistent themes of Inside Travel Talk is that successful vacations rarely happen by accident. They begin with early planning and conversations with an experienced travel advisor who can monitor promotions and recommend the best value.
The Just Cruising segment focuses on trends that are shaping the future of cruising. This week’s discussion ranges from classic cruise traditions making a comeback to protecting yourself from sophisticated travel scams. Mark also explains why Shoulder Season River Cruises have become one of the hottest trends in river cruising before highlighting AmaWaterways’ innovative City Escapes itineraries and one of the year’s strongest river cruise promotions. For travelers considering Europe, this segment reinforces that today’s best vacations are about slowing down, traveling smarter, and enjoying more meaningful experiences.
Cruising has evolved significantly over the past two decades. Flexible dining, expanded entertainment, and personalized experiences have changed how people vacation at sea.
However, not every traditional experience deserves to disappear.
Responding to guest feedback, Holland America Line is bringing back its classic farewell dinner.
For longtime cruisers, the final evening was once a celebration featuring elegant dining, festive atmosphere, and a memorable way to conclude a voyage. Many passengers missed that tradition after cruise lines shifted toward flexible dining schedules.
Mark explains that while anytime dining offers convenience, it also removed some of the shared experiences that helped create lasting cruise memories.
Holland America’s decision demonstrates an important trend throughout the travel industry. Suppliers continue listening to customer feedback and are restoring experiences that travelers truly value.
Sometimes the smallest traditions become the most memorable parts of a vacation.
One of the most important discussions in this episode centers on protecting travelers from increasingly sophisticated scams.
Artificial intelligence has allowed scammers to create convincing text messages that appear completely legitimate.
Some fraudulent messages now include:
The messages often claim that payment verification is required immediately or the reservation will be canceled.
Mark offers one simple rule that every traveler should remember:
Instead, contact your travel advisor or the travel supplier directly using a verified phone number or official website.
The discussion also serves as a reminder to avoid posting reservation confirmations or travel documents on social media. Even a single confirmation number can give scammers valuable information.
As travel technology improves, travelers should also improve their awareness of online security. Working with an experienced travel advisor adds another layer of protection because advisors can verify communications before travelers respond.
One of the biggest themes throughout this episode is the growing popularity of Shoulder Season River Cruises.
For decades, July and August dominated European vacations. Today, experienced travelers increasingly choose April, May, September, October, and even early November.
The reasons are easy to understand.
Travelers enjoy:
Mark notes that Europe itself hasn’t changed. Instead, travelers have become smarter about when they visit.
River cruising especially benefits from shoulder season departures.
Spring brings colorful gardens, blooming vineyards, and fresh countryside scenery.
Autumn offers beautiful foliage, harvest festivals, and crisp temperatures.
Many cruise lines now schedule culinary sailings, beer-themed cruises, wine cruises, Christmas Markets, tulip cruises, and other specialty departures that simply aren’t available during the busy summer season.
Another growing trend is shorter river cruises. Instead of seven to fourteen nights, many companies now offer four-, five-, and six-night itineraries, making European river cruising accessible to even more travelers.
For anyone planning a European vacation, this discussion provides one of the strongest arguments for rethinking traditional summer travel dates.
AmaWaterways continues to innovate with a concept called City Escapes.
Rather than rushing from destination to destination, these itineraries encourage travelers to spend meaningful time in some of Europe’s most iconic cities.
Many departures operate during November and December when cities feel quieter and more authentic.
Instead of simply checking landmarks off a sightseeing list, guests can immerse themselves in local culture.
Highlights include extended stays in cities such as:
Longer port stays allow travelers to enjoy experiences often missed during traditional itineraries.
Examples include:
Mark explains that these itineraries prioritize quality over quantity.
Rather than racing through attractions, guests can slow down and truly experience each destination.
That philosophy perfectly reflects today’s luxury traveler, who increasingly values meaningful cultural experiences over simply seeing more places.
For travelers seeking a deeper connection with Europe, AmaWaterways City Escapes represent an exciting new direction in river cruising.
The featured Cruise Deal of the Week with AmaWaterways is one of the strongest promotions river cruisers have seen in years.
Available on bookings made through July 14, 2026 AmaWaterways combines several offers into one exceptional package.
Travelers can receive:
The promotion applies to many itineraries throughout Europe, Asia, Egypt, Africa, and Colombia.
One of the biggest surprises is the airfare.
Mark notes that previous AirPlus promotions started around $899 or $999. Seeing airfare reduced to $599 represents one of the lowest prices AmaWaterways has offered.
Equally important, travelers lock in pricing today while delaying final payment until approximately 90 days before departure.
For anyone considering a European river cruise, this promotion dramatically lowers the cost of entry while providing tremendous overall value.
It also demonstrates why working with a professional travel advisor matters. Advisors monitor promotions daily and can identify opportunities that many travelers never discover on their own.
Why is Shoulder Season River Cruise travel becoming so popular?
Travelers enjoy fewer crowds, shorter lines, cooler weather, lower prices, and a more authentic experience. Spring and fall are now considered by many to be the best times to visit Europe.
What is the difference between a layover and a stopover?
A layover is typically a short connection of less than four hours. A stopover allows travelers to spend one or more nights exploring another destination before continuing to their final destination, often at no additional airfare.
Which airlines offer free stopover programs?
Several airlines offer complimentary stopovers on qualifying itineraries, including Icelandair, Copa Airlines, Emirates, Fiji Airways, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines.
Where should I stay when visiting Rome?
The Grand Meliá Vatican is an excellent choice for travelers wanting easy access to Vatican City while enjoying a quieter neighborhood, resort-style amenities, and a unique historic setting.
What are the best things to do in New Orleans?
Explore the French Quarter, cruise the Mississippi River on a steamboat, tour Oak Alley Plantation, visit the National WWII Museum, experience a Louisiana swamp tour, and enjoy local favorites like beignets, gumbo, muffulettas, and Bananas Foster.
How can travelers protect themselves from AI travel scams?
Never click links in unexpected travel emails or text messages. Always verify booking requests directly with your travel advisor or the travel supplier using official contact information.
Why are AmaWaterways City Escapes different from traditional river cruises?
City Escapes feature longer stays in iconic European cities, allowing travelers to enjoy evening experiences, local neighborhoods, cultural events, and smaller-group excursions instead of rushing between destinations.
What travel promotions are featured this week?
This episode highlights savings of up to $400 on select vacation packages, along with AmaWaterways’ America 250 promotion featuring up to $2,500 per stateroom savings, $599 airfare to Europe, onboard credits, and reduced deposits.
What is Shoulder Season River Cruises travel?
Shoulder season refers to traveling during spring or fall, typically April, May, September, October, and early November. These months usually offer better weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices than peak summer.
What is the difference between a stopover and a layover?
A layover is a short flight connection. A stopover allows you to spend a day or several days exploring another destination before continuing your journey, often at little or no additional airfare.
Which airlines offer stopover programs?
Popular airlines with stopover options include Icelandair, Emirates, Copa Airlines, Fiji Airways, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines.
Where is the Grand Meliá Vatican located?
The hotel is located just steps from Vatican City, providing easy access to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums while offering a quieter atmosphere than many central Rome neighborhoods.
What should first-time visitors do in New Orleans?
First-time visitors should explore the French Quarter, ride a Mississippi River steamboat, tour the National WWII Museum, visit Oak Alley Plantation, enjoy a swamp tour, and sample classic Cajun and Creole cuisine.
Why are river cruises becoming more popular during Europe’s shoulder season?
Travelers benefit from smaller crowds, comfortable temperatures, beautiful seasonal scenery, themed sailings, and more immersive experiences in Europe’s most popular destinations.
What makes AmaWaterways City Escapes unique?
These itineraries emphasize longer stays in major cities, allowing guests to enjoy evening concerts, Christmas markets, local cooking classes, neighborhood walking tours, and authentic cultural experiences.
How can I avoid travel scams?
Never respond directly to unexpected payment requests sent by email or text. Contact your travel advisor or the travel company through verified phone numbers or official websites before providing any personal or financial information.
What travel deals are featured in this episode?
The episode features vacation package savings of up to $400, along with AmaWaterways’ America 250 promotion that includes up to $2,500 per stateroom savings, $250 onboard credit, reduced deposits, and airfare to Europe starting at $599.
Why should I work with a professional travel advisor?
A professional travel advisor helps you find the best promotions, navigate changing travel policies, customize your itinerary, and provide expert guidance before, during, and after your trip.
This week’s episode demonstrates why Inside Travel Talk continues to be a trusted resource for travelers looking to make smarter vacation decisions. From the surprising return of Fresca aboard Delta flights to innovative airline stopovers and practical advice for exploring New Orleans, every topic offers useful takeaways for today’s traveler. The episode’s strongest message, however, centers on Shoulder Season River Cruises. As more travelers discover the advantages of spring and fall departures, river cruising continues to evolve with longer port stays, immersive cultural experiences, and exceptional promotions like AmaWaterways’ new City Escapes itineraries.
The conversation also reminds listeners that travel is about much more than checking destinations off a list. Whether you’re strolling through Rome near the Vatican, enjoying an evening concert in Budapest, exploring the French Quarter, or spending extra days in Iceland during a stopover, slowing down often creates the most meaningful memories. Combined with expert travel planning and timely promotions, these experiences become even more rewarding.
If you’re considering a European vacation, river cruise, or simply looking for inspiration for your next getaway, this episode offers practical advice backed by professional expertise. As travel continues to evolve, planning ahead, traveling during the right season, and working with an experienced travel advisor remain some of the smartest ways to maximize both your vacation budget and your overall experience. Whether you’re traveling across the United States or embarking on your dream Shoulder Season River Cruises adventure, the insights shared in this episode will help you travel with greater confidence and create memories that last a lifetime.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.
Travel has an incredible ability to connect us with history, culture, family, and unforgettable experiences. In this episode of Inside Travel Talk, Mark Faldmo returns from a family history journey through Norway and shares why ancestry travel continues to grow in popularity. The show also explores airline seat selection strategies, the science behind ginger ale on airplanes, luxury overwater bungalows closer to home, and one of Costa Rica’s most impressive resorts. Later, the cruise segment dives into the best river cruise lines for 2026 and 2027, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven experience, Caribbean hurricane season travel advice, and a remarkable AmaWaterways Christmas Markets offer.
Palifitos Overwater Bungalow in Riviera Maya
On This Week’s Episode
In this episode of Inside Travel Talk, travel expert Mark Faldmo shares insights from a family history journey through Norway, discusses common airline seat selection mistakes, explores the growing popularity of overwater bungalows closer to home, highlights Costa Rica’s spectacular Springs Resort and Spa, and answers a listener question about visiting Pearl Harbor. In the cruise segment, the discussion covers Caribbean hurricane season, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven experience, the best river cruise lines for 2026 and 2027, and an outstanding AmaWaterways Christmas Markets promotion featuring free airfare and savings.
Mark opened the show by discussing his recent family history journey through Norway. His travels included visits to churches, cemeteries, family farms, and communities connected to his ancestors. This type of travel continues to grow as DNA testing and genealogy research inspire travelers to explore their roots in person. Family history travel transforms names and dates into meaningful personal experiences.
If family history travel interests you, consider exploring the Europe travel resources and custom itinerary planning services available through Blue Planet Vacations. This topic naturally connects with destination content about Norway, Ireland, Scotland, England, and Germany.
Choosing the wrong airline seat can negatively affect an otherwise enjoyable vacation. Mark recommends researching your aircraft before selecting a seat. Many travelers do not realize that some window seats lack windows, some seats have limited recline, and others sit directly beside busy lavatories or galleys. A few minutes of research can dramatically improve your flying experience.
One of the most interesting travel stories discussed was the science behind ginger ale’s popularity in flight. Reduced cabin pressure changes how travelers perceive flavors. As a result, ginger ale’s crisp taste remains noticeable while many sweeter flavors become muted. Additionally, ginger has long been associated with helping settle the stomach during travel.
Luxury travelers have traditionally associated overwater bungalows with Bora Bora and the Maldives. However, that is changing rapidly. Destinations throughout Mexico, Belize, Antigua, Jamaica, and other Caribbean locations now offer overwater accommodations much closer to home. Mark highlighted the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows in Riviera Maya as a personal favorite and discussed future projects that continue expanding this luxury travel trend.
Travelers interested in this topic may also enjoy reading destination content related to Mexico, Caribbean vacations, luxury resorts, and romantic getaways available through Blue Planet Vacations.
Costa Rica remains one of the most popular destinations in the Americas. During this segment, Mark highlighted The Springs Resort and Spa near Arenal Volcano. The property offers stunning volcano views, naturally heated hot springs, adventure activities, wildlife experiences, and access to the Club Rio adventure center. Unlike many resorts, The Springs becomes a destination in itself. Guests can easily spend several days enjoying the property’s extensive amenities.
Pearl Harbor remains one of America’s most meaningful historic sites. Mark recommends every traveler visit at least once. The experience begins with the USS Arizona Memorial, where visitors can reflect on the events of December 7, 1941. Additional attractions include the Battleship Missouri Memorial, where World War II officially ended, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
Travelers should reserve tickets in advance and plan to spend more time than expected. Many visitors arrive expecting a short visit but quickly discover there is enough history and emotion to fill an entire day. Pearl Harbor offers an opportunity to connect with the sacrifices, courage, and resilience that shaped modern history.
This week’s featured travel deal focuses on Hawaii. Delta Vacations is offering up to $250 off Hawaii vacation packages, along with bonus SkyMiles for eligible travelers. Whether your dream vacation includes Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, this promotion creates an excellent opportunity to experience Hawaii at a reduced cost.
The start of hurricane season often creates concern among travelers. However, Mark explains that millions of travelers successfully visit the Caribbean every year during hurricane season. The key is understanding weather risks and purchasing travel insurance. Travelers often benefit from lower pricing and strong promotional offers during this period.
Cruise lines continue investing heavily in private destinations. Norwegian Cruise Line’s upcoming Great Tides Waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay reflects this trend. The new attraction adds slides, splash zones, and family-friendly activities designed to transform a simple beach stop into a major destination experience.
The Haven continues to be one of the cruise industry’s most popular premium experiences. Guests enjoy private dining, concierge service, exclusive lounges, priority embarkation, and a peaceful retreat from the larger ship environment. At the same time, they maintain access to all shipboard entertainment and activities. For milestone celebrations and bucket-list cruises, Mark strongly recommends considering The Haven.
River cruising continues to gain popularity because it combines the advantages of land touring with the convenience of cruising. Travelers unpack once while visiting multiple destinations. They enjoy constantly changing scenery and dock directly in the heart of many European cities.
Among the best river cruise lines, AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways stood out as Mark’s personal favorites. AmaWaterways earned praise for exceptional service, outstanding dining, and active excursion options. Avalon impressed with innovative Panorama Suites and flexible excursion choices. Both lines provide immersive experiences that help travelers connect deeply with Europe.
River cruising remains one of the most rewarding ways to explore Europe. Guests enjoy castles, charming villages, culinary experiences, historic cities, and cultural immersion while traveling in comfort. For many travelers, river cruises offer the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration.
The Cruise Deal of the Week may be the most exciting offer discussed during the episode. AmaWaterways is currently offering up to $2,000 in savings plus free airfare on select Christmas Market sailings. These limited-capacity departures visit some of Europe’s most iconic holiday destinations.
Featured destinations include:
Travelers experience festive markets, historic town squares, seasonal foods, handcrafted gifts, and centuries-old holiday traditions. Combined with free airfare, this promotion represents exceptional value for travelers considering a European holiday vacation.
What is the best river cruise line for first-time travelers?
AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways are excellent options because they balance service, comfort, excursions, and value.
Are river cruises suitable for active travelers?
Yes. Many river cruise lines offer biking, hiking, and active shore excursions.
How much time should I spend at Pearl Harbor?
Plan for most of a day. Many visitors underestimate how much there is to see.
Are overwater bungalows available outside the South Pacific?
Yes. Mexico, Belize, Jamaica, Antigua, and other Caribbean destinations now offer overwater accommodations.
Is travel insurance worth purchasing during hurricane season?
Absolutely. It provides protection and flexibility if weather impacts travel plans.
What are the best river cruise lines for 2026 and 2027?
AmaWaterways, Viking, Uniworld, Avalon Waterways, Tauck, Scenic, Emerald Cruises, Riverside Luxury Cruises, Riviera Travel, and CroisiEurope.
Is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven worth it?
For travelers seeking luxury, privacy, and premium service, Mark considers The Haven one of the best upgrades available.
Should I avoid Caribbean travel during hurricane season?
Not necessarily. Lower prices often create excellent value, especially when combined with travel insurance protection.
What is the best Costa Rica resort near Arenal Volcano?
The Springs Resort and Spa remains one of Mark’s favorite luxury resorts due to its views, hot springs, and activities.
Experience: Mark Faldmo is a professional travel advisor and frequent traveler with firsthand experience across Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, Costa Rica, river cruises, expedition cruises, and luxury resorts.
Expertise: Blue Planet Vacations specializes in custom vacations, cruises, river cruises, family history travel, and escorted group tours.
Authority: Inside Travel Talk regularly analyzes travel industry news, cruise developments, destination trends, and supplier promotions.
Trust: Recommendations are based on firsthand travel experience, industry relationships, and real-world client planning expertise.
This episode of Inside Travel Talk demonstrates why professional travel advice remains more valuable than ever. From tracing family roots in Norway to planning a meaningful visit to Pearl Harbor, the show highlights how travel creates deeper connections with history, culture, and personal experiences. Listeners also gained practical advice about airline seating, learned why overwater bungalows are becoming easier to reach, and discovered one of Costa Rica’s most impressive resorts. Meanwhile, the cruise segment delivered valuable guidance on hurricane season travel, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven experience, and the growing popularity of European river cruising. Most importantly, the discussion of the best river cruise lines showcased why river cruising continues to attract travelers seeking immersive cultural experiences. Combined with exceptional Hawaii vacation savings and AmaWaterways Christmas Market promotions, this episode offers inspiration and actionable advice for travelers planning their next unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of Europe, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Norway, or a luxury cruise, this episode provides the insights needed to travel smarter and travel better.
This week’s episode of Inside Travel Talk combines breathtaking destination inspiration with practical travel advice and exciting cruise news. Mark Faldmo joins the podcast directly from Norway after completing an unforgettable overnight sleeper train journey from Stockholm to Narvik inside the Arctic Circle. Along the way, the show explores Marquesas Islands travel in French Polynesia, Air New Zealand’s new Skynest sleeping pods, Europe’s upcoming ETIAS travel requirements, Fiji small-ship cruising, and Viking’s ambitious expedition expansion plans. Whether you love adventure travel, cruising, or bucket-list destinations, this episode delivers inspiration for your next unforgettable journey.
Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia
This week’s episode of Inside Travel Talk delivers a powerful mix of destination inspiration, cruise insights, and essential travel planning advice. Mark Faldmo joins the show from Norway after an unforgettable Arctic Circle rail journey through Scandinavia. The episode explores Marquesas Islands travel in French Polynesia, Air New Zealand’s groundbreaking Skynest sleeping pods, Europe’s upcoming ETIAS requirements, Fiji small-ship cruising, and Viking’s massive expedition expansion. Travelers also get practical cruise advice, insight into surviving sea days, and details on a hosted 2027 British Isles cruise aboard Princess Cruises.
Mark joins the show from Narvik, Norway after completing one of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys. The overnight sleeper train from Stockholm to Narvik crosses forests, lakes, tiny Scandinavian villages, and eventually the Arctic Circle. The experience highlights why train travel remains one of Europe’s most immersive transportation options. Travelers enjoy panoramic scenery, comfortable sleeper compartments, and a relaxing pace that becomes part of the vacation itself.
The conversation also explores the beauty of northern Norway. Mark describes dramatic fjords, towering mountains, waterfalls, and picturesque fishing villages. Narvik’s World War II history adds another layer of fascination for travelers visiting the region. This segment positions Scandinavia as one of Europe’s most rewarding adventure destinations for travelers seeking nature, history, and unforgettable scenery.
For travelers interested in Europe vacations, rail travel, or Arctic adventures, this episode highlights how experiential travel often creates the most meaningful memories. Travelers exploring destinations like Norway may also enjoy the Europe travel resources and custom vacation planning available through Blue Planet Vacations.
One of the episode’s most talked-about topics is Air New Zealand’s new Skynest sleeping pod concept. These bunk-style sleeping pods allow travelers to reserve horizontal sleeping time during long-haul flights to New Zealand.
The podcast explains how Skynest differs from the airline’s existing Skycouch product. While Skycouch works well for families and couples, Skynest focuses on solo travelers wanting actual sleep on ultra-long-haul flights. Each pod includes bedding, privacy curtains, ventilation, USB charging, and reading lights.
The discussion highlights a growing trend in travel. Travelers increasingly value comfort, rest, and wellness during long journeys. Airlines continue evolving toward more personalized premium experiences even outside traditional business class cabins.
The show also discusses TSA’s new Gold+ program and the growing use of private airport security partnerships. Airports like San Francisco International Airport and Kansas City have already demonstrated how private security operators can improve efficiency while maintaining federal oversight.
The segment explains how airports increasingly create segmented traveler experiences. Premium security, expedited screening, lounges, and biometric technology continue reshaping the airport journey.
For travelers, the key takeaway is simple. Less stress creates better vacations. Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry continue becoming more valuable for frequent travelers.
Europe travel changes remain one of the episode’s most important practical discussions. Mark explains Europe’s upcoming ETIAS authorization system for American travelers. While ETIAS is not technically a visa, it will still become mandatory for many U.S. travelers visiting Europe starting in late 2026.
The segment also emphasizes passport validity requirements. Many travelers still underestimate how often travelers get denied boarding because their passports expire too soon.
Additional travel preparation tips include:
Travelers planning Europe vacations can also explore custom Europe itineraries and cruise vacations through Blue Planet Vacations Europe Travel.
This week’s hotel spotlight features the iconic Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Mark explains why it remains one of his favorite Waikiki resorts.
The property offers a rare balance of location, beachfront access, tropical atmosphere, and family-friendly amenities. The famous Rainbow Tower continues attracting travelers seeking classic Hawaii vacation experiences.
The episode especially highlights Diamond Head view rooms, tropical gardens, koi ponds, multiple pools, and the resort’s relaxed atmosphere compared to busier sections of Waikiki.
Travelers interested in Hawaii vacations may also enjoy the Hawaii travel blogs and resort offers available through Blue Planet Vacations Hawaii Travel.
The main focus of segment one explores the incredible Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. This discussion becomes the emotional centerpiece of the episode.
Unlike Bora Bora’s luxury resort image, Marquesas Islands travel focuses on rugged volcanic scenery, Polynesian culture, archaeology, and authenticity. The islands feature towering cliffs, waterfalls, remote valleys, roaming horses, and ancient tiki sites.
Mark explains that the islands sit roughly 900 miles northeast of Tahiti. Their isolation helped preserve their culture and untouched atmosphere. Travelers can visit by flying from Tahiti or aboard the legendary Aranui 5 cargo-passenger cruise.
The conversation highlights:
This episode positions Marquesas Islands travel as transformational travel rather than simple tourism. Travelers seeking deeper cultural immersion and remote adventure will find this destination unforgettable.
The South Pacific travel deal of the week adds even more value. Blue Planet Vacations currently offers savings on custom South Pacific vacations including Tahiti, Fiji, the Marquesas Islands, and the Cook Islands. Travelers can combine overwater bungalows, cruises, boutique resorts, and island-hopping experiences into personalized itineraries.
Travelers inspired by this discussion should explore South Pacific vacation options and travel inspiration through Blue Planet Vacations South Pacific Travel.
Segment two begins with exciting cruise news from Fiji. Blue Lagoon Cruises recently introduced the new Yasawa Princess II small ship.
Unlike massive cruise ships, this intimate vessel carries only about 44 guests. The experience focuses on authentic Fijian culture, remote islands, and personalized service.
Highlights include:
The segment reinforces the growing popularity of immersive small-ship cruising experiences.
The show also shares practical cruise advice after discussing a traveler who missed a cruise because their passport was packed in checked luggage.
Key cruise travel tips include:
These simple strategies reduce stress and help travelers avoid costly travel mistakes.
One of the episode’s most relatable conversations focuses on sea days during long cruises.
Mark explains how his perspective evolved over time. He once preferred nonstop ports. Now he appreciates sea days as opportunities to truly relax.
The discussion explores:
The episode reframes sea days as an important part of the vacation experience rather than downtime between ports.
The main cruise topic focuses on Viking and its plans to add a dozen new ocean and expedition ships by 2031.
The conversation highlights Viking’s strong reputation for:
However, the real focus becomes Viking’s extraordinary Northwest Passage expedition itinerary.
This bucket-list expedition explores Greenland and Arctic Canada while attempting the legendary Northwest Passage route once sought by explorers for centuries.
The segment highlights:
This discussion positions expedition cruising as modern exploration. Travelers increasingly seek immersive experiences rather than traditional sightseeing vacations.
The cruise deal of the week spotlights Princess Cruises and its Discover the World Sale.
Current offers include:
The episode encourages travelers to book Alaska, Europe, and holiday cruises early because demand remains very strong.
One of the episode’s biggest highlights is Mark’s hosted British Isles cruise aboard the Majestic Princess in May 2027.
The 12-day sailing visits:
The itinerary combines history, castles, coastal scenery, and cultural experiences. Travelers can also add a London pre-cruise package featuring sites like Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
Travelers interested in hosted cruises and Europe cruise vacations can learn more through Blue Planet Vacations Cruise Travel.
Is the Marquesas Islands trip good for first-time Tahiti travelers?
The Marquesas are better for adventurous travelers seeking culture and exploration rather than luxury resort experiences.
When will ETIAS begin for Americans?
Current expectations point toward a late 2026 launch.
Are Viking expedition cruises luxury experiences?
Yes. Viking combines expedition exploration with upscale accommodations and educational enrichment.
Is Fiji small-ship cruising better than large cruises?
It depends on your travel style. Small ships offer more immersion, local culture, and remote destinations.
What is the best cabin type for a British Isles cruise?
Balcony cabins are very popular because of the incredible coastal scenery throughout the itinerary.
Inside Travel Talk combines real-world travel experience with professional travel industry expertise. Mark Faldmo of Blue Planet Vacations brings decades of firsthand travel planning and destination knowledge to every episode. The podcast delivers practical advice, destination insights, cruise expertise, and current travel industry developments designed to help travelers make smarter vacation decisions.
What are the Marquesas Islands?
The Marquesas Islands are remote volcanic islands in French Polynesia known for dramatic scenery, ancient Polynesian culture, and adventure travel.
What is Air New Zealand Skynest?
Skynest is a new sleeping pod system allowing travelers to reserve horizontal sleeping bunks during long-haul flights.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is Europe’s upcoming travel authorization requirement for Americans visiting many European countries beginning in late 2026.
What is the best way to visit the Marquesas Islands?
Most travelers visit by flying from Tahiti or aboard the famous Aranui 5 cargo-passenger cruise ship.
This week’s episode of Inside Travel Talk perfectly captures why travel remains one of life’s most rewarding experiences. From Arctic Norway sleeper trains to Marquesas Islands travel in French Polynesia, the episode blends inspiration, practical advice, and industry expertise into one compelling conversation. Listeners learn about Europe’s upcoming ETIAS requirements, Air New Zealand’s innovative Skynest beds, immersive Fiji small-ship cruising, and Viking’s remarkable Arctic expedition itineraries. The episode also reminds travelers that meaningful vacations often come from authentic experiences rather than crowded tourist destinations.
Perhaps most importantly, this episode reinforces how travel changes people. Whether exploring the Arctic Circle, cruising through the British Isles, or discovering the remote Marquesas Islands, travelers return home with stories and memories that last forever. Inside Travel Talk continues positioning itself as a trusted voice in the travel advisor space by delivering destination expertise, cruise insights, and practical travel guidance that helps listeners travel smarter and dream bigger. Travelers looking for inspiration, expert planning help, or unforgettable vacation ideas can continue exploring destinations, cruise offers, and custom itineraries through Blue Planet Vacations.
DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions and offers that may be time sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice. Offers are subject to other supplier terms and conditions i.e. cruise lines, tour operators etc. For details visit appropriate supplier website.