Welcome to the latest episode of the Inside Travel Talk podcast, presented by Blue Planet Vacations, where hosts Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo take you on an exciting journey through the world of travel deals and insider advice. This episode covers hot topics like Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas on the West Coast, Delta’s fresh fare products, must-visit historic D-Day sites in Normandy, three spectacular ways to cruise Hawaii, and detailed insights about MSC Cruises’ new ships. This podcast is packed with inspiration to ignite your wanderlust.

American Cemetery – Normandy

On this week’s episode:

• Royal Caribbean adding a second West Coast ship, Ovation of the Seas
• Delta’s new fare branding and premium product offerings
• SeaLife Florida opening at Legoland and Alaska luxury cruise Voyages by Explora Journeys
• Memorial Day reflections and a special focus on Normandy D-Day tours
• Alaska Airlines’ new long-haul premium routes and reflections on decreasing airfare prices
• Mexico’s agreement on cruise passenger fees and updates on the cruise industry
• Hot travel deals to Hawaii: packages and cruise options
• Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico private destination with world record water slides and lazy river
• Margaritaville’s growing cruise fleet and food highlights
• Three ways to cruise Hawaii: roundtrip West Coast, inter-island on Pride of America, and repositioning cruises with Oceania
• Frontier Airlines boarding challenges and tips for budget travelers
• How to cruise without a passport and the importance of carrying one
• Mark’s top travel tips to keep your adventures smooth and enjoyable

Segment 1: Cruise & Airlines Updates

This segment kicks off with exciting news about Royal Caribbean’s new addition, Ovation of the Seas, boosting West Coast cruising options with 3, 4, 6, and 7-day itineraries from Los Angeles. Mark shares his recent experiences from San Diego Padres and Yankees-Dodgers games before boarding the ship. The discussion transitions to Delta Airlines’ freshly rebranded fares, catering to various traveler needs with their Delta Main, Comfort, Premium Select, and One products—focused on enhanced passenger experience and fully refundable options.

The main highlight here focuses on the evolution of Delta into a premium airline, offering all-tiered service levels and refundable fares that reward travelers with extra SkyMiles. It’s perfect for discerning travelers wanting flexibility and elite perks during their flights.

Segment 2: Memorial Day Tribute & D-Day Normandy Highlights

Honoring Memorial Day, Patrick and Mark emphasize the significance of visiting Normandy’s D-Day landing beaches—calling it a must-do for every American traveler. They outline the three best ways to experience this sacred site: river cruises from Paris, custom private tours based out of Bayeux with WWII Jeep rides, and combining the trip with a WWII-themed visit to London. Bayeux offers an authentic, charming old-world experience with historical landmarks including an 11th-century tapestry.

The focal point of this segment is providing detailed travel options for anyone interested in a respectful and meaningful journey to Normandy, ensuring visitors not only witness history but feel connected to the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought.

Segment 3: Hot Deals to Hawaii & Airline News

Mark unveils fantastic savings on Hawaii vacation packages, with hotel and airfare deals starting under $1,000 per person—highlighting destinations like Kona on the Big Island, Waikiki on Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. These offers come with early September travel dates, allowing visitors to bask in beautiful weather and fewer crowds.

Alaska Airlines’ ambitious plans to use Boeing 787 Dreamliners to compete with Delta on long-haul routes further signal better premium service options. Lower airfare trends benefit travelers right now, making 2024 a perfect year to explore Hawaii or the Mexican coast.

This segment’s heart is the affordable and flexible Hawaii deal, showcasing how accessible and rewarding a trip to the islands can be with Blue Planet Vacations’ trusted arrangements.

Segment 4: “Just Cruising” and Passport Essentials

Here, the focus shifts to the cruise scene with Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico on the horizon—boasting the tallest waterslide in the Americas, a world record lazy river, multiple pools, and beach lounges. Margaritaville at Sea’s expanding cruise fleet promises laid-back fun complemented by excellent dining, including famous cheeseburgers.

The segment also breaks down three unique ways to cruise Hawaii: west coast roundtrips lasting 14+ days, the only inter-island Hawaiian cruise Pride of America, and premium repositioning cruises on Oceania’s luxury liners. Mark highlights pricing, itineraries, and the benefits of each for different traveler preferences.

Concluding with traveler tips, Mark advises cruising with a passport even on closed-loop cruises—sharing real emergency examples—underscoring the importance of preparedness for seamless, stress-free adventures.

Final Thoughts:

This episode of Inside Travel Talk is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone inspired to travel in 2024 and beyond. From thrilling cruise options like MSC World America to immersive journeys visiting D-Day & Normandy’s historic sites, and dream vacations exploring Hawaii or Costa Rica, listeners receive expert guidance to turn travel dreams into reality.

Remember, travel is not just about the destinations—it’s about how the journey enriches your soul. So pack your bags, call Mark at Blue Planet Vacations, and get ready to explore this beautiful planet with passion and ease!