Mark Faldmo - Owner Blue Plant Vacations
Owner - Blue Planet Vacations
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Soaring Journeys: Airline Insights, Hidden Cancun Deals, and Scandinavian Cruise Ventures

Listen On:

September 28, 2024

Are you dreaming of a vacation but not sure where to start? Look no further! The Inside Travel Talk podcast, hosted by Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo, is your ultimate guide to breathtaking destinations, unbeatable travel deals, and insightful travel news. This week’s episode will inspire your wanderlust with highlights on fall foliage tours, a hot travel deal of the week to Cancun, unbelievable cruise experiences to Scandinavia, and much more.

On This Week’s Episode

  • Travel News of the Week
  • Top Fall Foliage Destinations in the U.S.
  • Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Cancun, Mexico
  • What Does All-Inclusive Mean
  • Cruise Deal of the Week: Scandinavian Adventures
  • Exploring Kansas City: Culture, History, and BBQ

Travel News of the Week

This week’s travel news kicks off with an important update from the Department of Transportation. The DOT is investigating the devaluation of airline reward programs. With increasing concerns that major airlines are monopolizing markets and making frequent flyer miles less valuable, the DOT is now requesting records from American, Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines. Frequent flyer miles, often considered a lucrative part of travelers’ retirement plans, have seen fluctuating values, causing frustration among loyal airline customers. Stay tuned for more updates!

In other significant news, the State Department has fully operationalized their online passport renewal system. This update streamlines the process for travelers, allowing adults with passports expired in the last five years to renew them online without sending in their old passports. Additionally, Alaska Air has closed its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. Even though both airlines will operate separately for now, this merger is expected to open up more markets and routes, benefiting travelers to Hawaii and beyond.

Top Fall Foliage Destinations in the U.S.

Fall is a magical time of year, and what better way to celebrate it than by soaking in vibrant fall foliage? Here are the top methods of catching autumn’s brilliant display:

By Train

Trains provide a unique vantage point for leaf peeping without the hassle of driving. Some of the best fall foliage train rides include:

  • Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire: The world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway offers a steep and exhilarating journey to the summit of Mount Washington. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of five states plus Canada and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Rocky Mountaineer, Rockies to Red Rocks: Travel through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, where Aspens blaze in vibrant yellow. The journey offers luxury service and gourmet cuisine, making it a relaxing way to see the fall colors.
  • Durango-Silverton Train, Colorado: Offers spectacular autumn views along this historic narrow-gauge railway. The trip takes you through river valleys and rugged canyons, providing plenty of photo opportunities.

By Cruise Ship

Few people consider cruising as a way to see fall foliage, but it offers some unique perspectives. Not only do you get to enjoy the scenery from the water, but you also get to visit charming coastal towns without the hassle of driving.

  • Canada and New England Cruises: These cruises often include stops in Quebec City, Bar Harbor, and other historically rich ports, all while passengers can gaze at the stunning fall vistas from the comfort of their ship cabin.
  • Hudson River Cruises: These shorter cruises offer a scenic journey along the Hudson River, showcasing the beautiful fall foliage of the Catskills and beyond.

Hot Travel Deal of the Week: Cancun, Mexico

All-inclusive Seaside Suites Beach Rivera Maya MexicoPlanning a trip to Cancun has never been easier with this week’s hot travel deal. Set for a December 11th departure, here’s what’s in store:

What Does All-Inclusive Mean?

All-inclusive doesn’t just cover your flight and hotel. In Cancun, it includes:

  • All meals and beverages: Enjoy gourmet dining and unlimited drinks without worrying about extra costs.
  • Activities: Participate in water sports, yoga classes, and nightly entertainment, all included in your package.
  • Transportation: Includes seamless transfers between the airport and your hotel, ensuring your vacation starts stress-free.

Cancun All-Inclusive Deals

These packages ensure you can enjoy a truly hassle-free vacation. Here are the top deals:

  • Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun: $1,099 per person. This luxurious resort offers spacious suites, multiple pools, and a variety of dining options to suit every palate.
  • Park Royale Beach Club: $1,099 per person. Located in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone, this resort combines modern amenities with stunning ocean views.
  • Margaritaville Island Reserve: $1,319 per person. Experience the laid-back luxury of Jimmy Buffett’s signature resort, complete with swim-up bars and beachfront access.
  • El Dorado Seaside Palms: $1,399 per person. Known for its romantic ambiance and gourmet restaurants, this resort promises a serene getaway.

All packages are for five nights, include round-trip airfare from Salt Lake City, and cover all taxes and fees.

Top Excursions in Cancun

  • Archaeological Tours: Visit sites like Coba and Ekbalam for historical insights and stunning views.
  • Coba: Known for its towering pyramids, Coba allows you to explore ancient pathways by bike or pedicab.
  • Ekbalam: This lesser-known site features well-preserved structures and the opportunity to climb its main pyramid.
  • Rio Secreto: Explore underground caves in a thrilling cenote adventure.
  • Cave Exploration: Swim and wade through crystal-clear waters surrounded by stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Guided Tours: Learn about the geological formations and history of these mystical underground rivers.
  • Snorkeling: Enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling by visiting Maroma Beach or Tulum.
  • Maroma Beach: Offers pristine waters and an abundance of marine life, perfect for snorkeling and watersports.
  • Tulum: Combine history and nature by snorkeling near ancient Mayan ruins with vibrant coral reefs just offshore.

Cruise Deal of the Week: Scandinavian Adventures

Ready to set sail on a memorable cruise? Let’s dive into the best deals:

12-Day Cruise from Copenhagen to Reykjavik

Experience one of the most unique cruises from NCL:

  • Ports of Call: Visit Kristiansand, Malloy, Alisund, Honingstav, Longyearbarn, and multiple stops in Iceland.
    • Kristiansand, Norway: Known for its picturesque old town and scenic coastline.
    • Malloy, Norway: Discover stunning fjord landscapes and charming coastal villages.
    • Alisund, Norway: Renowned for its art nouveau architecture and nearby fjords.
    • Honingstav, Norway: The northernmost city on mainland Europe, offering spectacular natural beauty and cultural insights.
    • Longyearbarn, Norway: The world’s northernmost settlement, providing a truly unique Arctic experience.
  • Cost: Inside cabins start at $1,458 per person, and balcony cabins at $2,538 per person. Prices include taxes and fees.

7-Day Cruise Round-Trip from Copenhagen

Explore Scandinavian beauty with MSC Cruises:

  • Ports of Call: Includes Geiranger Fjord, Alisund, Flam, and Kiel.
    • Geiranger Fjord, Norway: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes and cascading waterfalls.
    • Alisund, Norway: Explore this picturesque town’s historic seafaring history and stunning views.
    • Flam, Norway: Famous for the Flam Railway, one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
    • Kiel, Germany: Discover this port city’s rich maritime history and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Cost: Inside cabins start at $1,048 per person and balconies at $1,378 per person. These prices include all taxes and fees, making it an excellent value for a European adventure.

Exploring Kansas City: Culture, History, and BBQ

If you’ve never considered Kansas City as a travel destination, you should! From award-winning museums to succulent BBQ, the city has something for everyone.

  • Nelson Atkins Museum of Art: Rivals European art museums with its extensive collections. View everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces in this world-class museum. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture garden featuring iconic works like the Shuttlecocks.
  • Truman Library: Offers a comprehensive look into President Truman’s impactful decisions post-World War II. See personal artifacts, historic documents, and interactive exhibits that bring the era to life.
  • Civil War History in Liberty: Learn about the pivotal battles and events that shaped the region. Visit the Jesse James Bank Museum, home to the first successful daylight bank robbery in the U.S.
  • Negro League Museum and American Jazz Museum: Delve into the rich cultural history of American sports and music. The Negro League Museum tells the story of African-American baseball players, while the Jazz Museum celebrates the genre’s history with dynamic exhibits and live performances.
  • BBQ: With over 120 BBQ joints, Kansas City offers some of the best barbecue you’ll ever taste.
    • Jack Stack’s BBQ: Famous for its burnt ends and sides like barbecue baked beans.
    • Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que: A must-visit for its legendary Z-Man sandwich and ribs.

Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing beach vacation, a vibrant train ride through fall foliage, or a breathtaking Scandinavian cruise, the Inside Travel Talk podcast has you covered. With expert travel advice and unbeatable deals, hosts Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo are committed to helping you plan your perfect getaway.

Happy travels, and remember, life’s a journey—make it a memorable one!

DISCLAIMER: The Inside Travel Talk podcast and radio show 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.