Send us a textGet ready to uncover the latest travel secrets and insider deals on this episode of Inside Travel Talk! We'll take you through the demolitions of the legendary Tropicana and Mirage hotels in Las Vegas and the ripple effects of ongoing hotel worker strikes sweeping across major cities like Boston, San Francisco, Honolulu, and Seattle. Plus, stay ahead of the curve as we break down Edinburgh's 5% tourist tax, coming into play in 2026. We'll also tackle a listener's burning question about UK travel, recommending a comprehensive nine-day escorted tour by Globus and offering essential tips for crafting your perfect London and Scotland itinerary.Next, find out how the post-pandemic travel trends are shaping up, with prices becoming more traveler-friendly than ever. You'll hear about the much-anticipated Universal Helios Grand Hotel opening in 2025, featuring a magical How to Train Your Dragon suite and exclusive access to the Epic Universe theme park. And don't miss our hot travel deal of the week—score up to $550 off Hawaii packages when booked by September 26th for travel between January and March 2025. This deal includes roundtrip airfare from Salt Lake City and luxurious five-night stays in select Honolulu hotels.Finally, stay informed with the latest on airport security and cruise line updates. Learn about the temporary return to old x-ray scanners at some European airports and the implications for your travel experience. We also dive into Princess Cruises' recent hike in crew appreciation fees and an enticing promotion from Norwegian Cruise Line that includes discounts, free airfare for a second guest, and more perks. Listen to our exclusive chat with Laura Okunowski from MSC Cruises about their exciting new home port in Galveston, Texas, starting in November 2025, and year-round Western Caribbean itineraries. Don’t miss out—tune in now for all these updates and more!

Send us a textCurious about the latest travel trends and deals? Get ready for an exciting journey through the world of travel with Inside Travel Talk. Discover the transformations taking place at Southwest Airlines and Delta as we discuss potential updates to Southwest's free baggage policy and Delta's new offering of complimentary Wi-Fi on international flights. Mark Faldmo takes us on a scenic adventure aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train from Denver to Moab, with a picturesque stopover in Glenwood Springs. We also give a sneak peek into our upcoming conversation with Laura Okunowski from MSC Cruises, who teases an unbeatable Labor Day cruise deal you won't want to miss.What's happening in the travel industry today? We bring you up to speed with the newly approved merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, promising better connectivity to the Hawaiian Islands. Plus, learn about Globus' new small group discovery tours designed for a more intimate and immersive travel experience. We'll answer a listener's question about the best castles to visit in Germany, with a special spotlight on the fairy tale-like Neuschwanstein Castle and the charming horse-drawn carriage rides that can take you there.Ready to set sail? We dive into the cruise industry's latest updates, including Norwegian Cruise Line's enhanced European itineraries and Royal Caribbean's expansion of its Icon-class ships. Special guest Laura Okunowski from MSC Cruises joins us to share details about an enticing Labor Day sale and her favorite cruising destinations. Take a virtual tour of MSC's private island, Ocean Key, and learn about its exciting transformation into a paradise filled with activities and amenities. We wrap up with a mix of travel news, celebrating 40 years of Miami Vice and discussing the impact of recent events on tourism in Africa, Mexico, and Hawaii. Tune in for a comprehensive and engaging travel discussion!

Send us a textEver wondered how a simple mistake could make your travel story go viral? This week on Inside Travel Talk, we share a hilarious Game of Thrones-inspired passport application blunder and celebrate TSA PreCheck's incredible milestone of 20 million members. Tune in for exciting news about our expansion to a new radio station in Salt Lake City, airing on 860 AM every weekend, and uncover the hottest travel deal of the week. We also dive into luxury travel trends, including new Orient Express routes in Italy and an adventurous train-ferry journey to Sicily. Plus, get a sneak peek into our upcoming Rocky Mountaineer adventure from Denver to Moab.Ready to plan your next tropical escape? We take you on an in-depth exploration of Jamaica's top destinations: Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. Discover the most thrilling activities, from bamboo rafting and conquering Dunn's River Falls to soaking in Negril's breathtaking sunsets on Seven Mile Beach. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or looking for relaxation, we've got you covered with our top all-inclusive resort recommendations, including the Hideaway at Royalton Blue Waters, perfect for first-time visitors. And don’t miss the teaser on our next segment about once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse cruises in Europe.Join us as we address the shocking behavior of tourists defacing a 2,000-year-old house in Pompeii and the importance of respecting historical sites. We also highlight new luxury offerings from the cruise industry, featuring Princess Cruise Lines' Sanctuary Collection and adults-only Marvelous Voyages by Virgin Voyages. To wrap things up, we whisk you away on a magical sailing adventure with Star Clippers, capturing the essence of tall ship sailing through stunning destinations in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Central America. This episode is packed with riveting stories, valuable travel tips, and unforgettable experiences you won’t want to miss!

Send us a textWhat would you do if you found out your personal information could be at risk next time you fly? Get the latest scoop as we tackle the ongoing TSA liquid rule, a new TSA scam alert from the Federal Trade Commission, and United Airlines' innovative seat preference feature that has already improved travel for 40% of its users. Plus, discover our top honeymoon destinations in Costa Rica, with insider tips on where to find the best all-inclusive resorts and breathtaking volcano views.Ready to set sail? Join us in the "Just Cruising" segment for exciting updates on luxury cruise deals and destinations, including Regent's 2025 Alaska cruises with an exclusive Canadian Rockies tour, Norwegian Cruise Line's new Explore Oahu tour, and Disney Cruise Lines' fleet expansion. We wrap things up with the cruise deal of the week featuring Panama Canal cruises and a special spotlight on Star Clippers' unique tall ship adventures in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Central America, brought to you by Blue Planet Vacations. Don't miss out on these captivating travel opportunities!

Send us a textWhat if your next travel adventure could be both luxurious and affordable? Tune in to our latest episode of Inside Travel Talk as we unveil a slew of travel updates. We kick off by diving into Spirit Airlines' game-changing introduction of four new fare classes, designed to cater to every type of traveler, from budget-conscious explorers to those craving European-style business class comfort. We also shed light on the State Department's updated travel advisory for Jamaica, stressing the importance of travel insurance given the upfront payment policies at private hospitals. Plus, catch up on Maui's ongoing efforts to make housing more affordable for locals by curbing short-term rentals, and get the latest on the recovery status of Lahaina and Kaanapali after recent fires.Planning a trip to Maui? We've got you covered with three distinct hotel options that cater to various budgets and tastes, including the Royal Lahaina Hotel, Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort, and the Hyatt Regency Maui. If beachside bliss is your priority, the Sheraton Maui with its iconic cliff diving spot at Black Rock is a must-consider. But a vacation in Maui isn’t just about where you stay; it’s about what you do! We highlight unforgettable activities—from the scenic Road to Hana and the Seven Sacred Pools to sunrise biking down Haleakala and snorkeling at Molokini. Whale watching between Lahaina and Lanai and exploring the Ayo Valley nature preserve are also on our list of top recommendations for making the most out of your Maui experience.Ever thought a passport stamp could ruin your travel plans? Learn why getting novelty stamps from places like Machu Picchu and Easter Island could be risky. We then shift gears to discuss Royal Caribbean's exciting announcement: the Ovation of the Seas will be porting in Los Angeles starting May 2025, opening up fantastic new short cruise options to Mexico. So, get ready to sail into your next adventure with us, and don't miss our cruise deal of the week, featuring enticing cold weather escape cruises with Princess and Holland America!

Send us a textWhat if you could explore hidden gems in Mexico while staying ahead of the latest travel trends? Join us as we welcome back Mark Faldmo from his recent Cancun adventure! This episode kicks off with the travel deal of the week, spotlighting some of Mexico's most enchanting destinations, including the culturally rich towns of Tulum and Bacalar and the serene Isla Mujeres. We also dive into American Airlines' groundbreaking initiative to introduce hydrogen electric engines for zero-emission regional jets and cover the new CDC rules for dogs entering the U.S., ensuring your furry friends are well-prepared for travel.Our journey continues with a luxurious stop at the El Dorado Spa Resorts in Cancun's Riviera Maya, perfect for those planning a romantic getaway. Transitioning to the "Just Cruising" segment, we bring you the latest updates in cruise news, from Nassau's exciting plans to build a new water park to Norwegian Cruise Line's strategic move to make Philadelphia a home port by 2026. We round out the episode with an in-depth look at Istanbul, a city where East meets West. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your next adventure, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to ignite your wanderlust.

Send us a textDiscover the shocking truth behind Delta's IT meltdown and how the Department of Transportation is stepping in to investigate the chaos that has plagued the airline. We also break the news about Southwest Airlines' radical shift from their open seating policy to assigned seating, starting in 2025, along with their plans to introduce red-eye flights and a premium cabin. Plus, we've unearthed the hottest travel deal of the week: an unforgettable journey to Kauai, Hawaii, complete with our top hotel picks and must-do activities.Rail enthusiasts, this one's for you! Get the inside scoop on our recent adventures aboard Florida's Brightline train and how it stacks up against Amtrak's ambitious plans to double ridership by 2040 with a massive $22 billion investment. We'll guide you through Amtrak's vacation packages and discounts, highlighting routes that promise stunning scenery. And if Hawaii is calling your name, you'll love our exclusive travel deals to Kauai, packed with recommendations for stays and thrilling activities like visits to Waimea Canyon and fern grotto explorations.The cruising world is buzzing with excitement, and we're here to keep you in the loop. Learn about Holland America's glacier guarantee on Alaska cruises and Carnival Cruise Lines' fleet expansion with three new colossal ships. We'll also spotlight AmaWaterways' special anniversary sale, offering incredible savings on European river cruises.  Don't miss this episode packed with travel tips, exclusive deals, and the latest industry news!

Send us a textExperience the thrill of top-notch travel discoveries in this latest episode of Inside Travel Talk! Join us as we share the details of an unforgettable adventure on Brightline's Florida train, complete with luxurious accommodations and an exclusive Taylor Swift sing-along event in October. We'll also highlight Belize as our Hot Travel Deal of the Week and discuss how Aruba's new $20 sustainability fee aims to enhance the island's infrastructure. Plus, get the inside scoop on Delta's potential introduction of a basic first-class fare to counter rising operating expenses and recent contract negotiations.Dive deep into the world of cruise ship inspections and discover the importance of cleanliness and safety onboard. Learn about the CDC's rigorous evaluation process and celebrate the perfect scores achieved by ships like MSC Seashore, Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas, and Norwegian Sky. And don’t miss our mouthwatering comparison of cruise ship pizzas, featuring MSC Seashore's delectable offerings and Princess Cruises' collaboration with celebrity pizza chef Tony Giamatti. This episode is brimming with essential travel insights, from hygiene standards to gourmet delights at sea!

Send us a textEver had a weather forecast go wrong for a flight? We start our latest episode with an engaging discussion on travel, tech, and tourism. From United Airlines' cutting-edge feature that keeps you updated on live weather radar via text, to the pressing issue of over-tourism in Barcelona, we cover the latest in travel news and trends. Get ready to understand how professional evaluations—rather than user reviews—ultimately determine those coveted hotel star ratings. Then we whisk you off to Asia visiting Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. This segment will leave you better informed and ready to make smarter travel choices.But we don’t stop there. We shine a spotlight on the booming trend of short cruises, highlighting their increasing popularity from hubs like Los Angeles, Miami, and Galveston. Learn how advancements in cruise ship Wi-Fi, thanks to Elon Musk's Starlink, are revolutionizing onboard connectivity. Various cruise lines are jumping on this tech bandwagon, ensuring you stay connected even at sea. Finally, we close with an Exotic Amazon cruise on Holland America Cruise Line with a heartfelt message encouraging you to travel now and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Tune in, and let’s make your next adventure the best one yet!

Send us a textReady to unlock exclusive travel insights and unbeatable deals? Join us on Inside Travel Talk as we reveal this week's hottest travel bargain and dive into the unique MSC cruise experience. Get the inside scoop on how the looming hurricane season might affect your travel plans to popular destinations like Costa Maya and Cozumel, and learn why Fiji Airways' partnership with American Airlines is a game-changer for frequent flyers.Salt Lake City residents, rejoice! A brand-new passport agency is opening in your city, making it easier than ever to secure your travel documents, even in a pinch. We also have updates for other cities like Kansas City, Orlando, and more. Plus, discover the exciting developments in Hawaii, including a new Duke's restaurant set to open at the Outrigger Kona Resort. Don't miss our top travel deal to Kona, with packages starting at just $1,099, including round-trip airfare from Salt Lake City.Ever wondered what it's like to witness a SpaceX launch and then cruise to paradise? We recount our thrilling journey to Port Canaveral and unforgettable MSC cruise, complete with tips for a quieter onboard experience. We discuss the latest travel news, including Princess Cruises' new best price guarantee and enticing European cruise deals. Finally, dream of river cruising along Europe's iconic rivers with AMA Waterways. Then we discuss two Europe cruise options in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean with Princess Cruises—contact Blue Planet Vacations to make this dream a reality. Tune in for all these travel treasures and more!

Send us a textJoin us as Patrick Wiscombe takes you on his serene voyage, thanking MSC Cruises and his co-host Mark Faldmo for making it all possible. From there, we whisk you away to Europe, where we explore enchanting land and river journeys, with a special mention of Nice in the French Riviera. And for those with furry friends, get ready to be intrigued by Bark Air, the luxury airline tailored for pets and their humans. We also tackle the frustrating issue of lost luggage, particularly spotlighting American Airlines’ mishandling rates, sharing personal stories and practical advice on navigating this all-too-common travel hiccup.The cruising world is buzzing with news, and we have all the latest updates. Carnival Cruise Lines has just absorbed P&O Cruises Australia, aiming to meet the rising demand for ocean adventures. Patrick also spills a funny story about the fierce competition for deck chairs and Carnival's "chairing is caring" initiative. And if you’re dreaming of a picturesque getaway, don’t miss our discussion on an irresistible cruise deal from Paris to Normandy that promises seven days of scenic bliss through France. Whether you’re a cruise veteran or just starting to dip your toes into travel, this episode is packed with insights and laughs to inspire your next journey.

Send us a textEver wondered how the closure of iconic hotels like the Mirage in Las Vegas impacts travel nostalgia? Join us as we chat with Mark Faldmo, fresh from his trip to Washington, DC, about his stay at the charming Gaylord National Harbor Hotel. We also dive into a heartfelt discussion about collecting Hard Rock memorabilia and the bittersweet anticipation of the Mirage being replaced by a new Hard Rock guitar-shaped hotel.Tune in as we break down the Department of Transportation's new aviation consumer protection dashboard, designed to help you navigate family seating policies and cancellation headaches. We also explore the picturesque Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen, which is grappling with an influx of tourists, and highlight the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland as the travel deal of the week. Don't miss the latest cruise industry updates, including MSC's new ship, World America, and Juneau, Alaska's decision to limit cruise ship numbers. Plus, we uncover an incredible 25-day cruise deal from Holland America, taking you through New England, Canada, Greenland, and Iceland!

Send us a textReady to unlock the secrets of seamless travel and exclusive deals? Join us as we explore the latest buzz in the travel world on the Inside Travel Talk podcast. Including a not-to-be-missed travel offer to Kauai, Hawaii, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Learn about the newest states rolling out mobile IDs, such as Louisiana, and discover how Delta's cutting-edge biometric mobile ID service can enhance your travel experience. We also tackle the big question—will Southwest Airlines' shift to reserved seating change the game for travelers, or should they stick to their traditional boarding process?Our cruise segment is all about giving you the edge on the high seas. We unveil Royal Caribbean's exciting new status match program. Beware of dubious travel hacks, especially a debunked Carnival Cruise Line scam, and understand why trusted travel agents are your best allies. Lastly, embark on a journey with Star Clippers and feel the timeless allure of tall ship sailing. Picture yourself navigating the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Central America, discovering hidden coves and harnessing the power of the wind. This episode promises to elevate your travel game with expert tips, news, and unbeatable deals!

Send us a textEver wondered what it's like to miss out on a dream destination? Join Mark Faldmo as he reminisces about his long-lost chance to visit Cuba and rekindles that travel itch with co-host Patrick Wiscombe. Packed with the latest travel news, this episode covers everything from a major lawsuit by U.S. airlines challenging new fee disclosure rules to a mesmerizing recount of Mark's African safari in Nairobi. Discover why these high-end adventures are worth every penny and get inspired to plan your own wild getaway.But that's not all! We break down the latest changes in cruise line advertising policies by Carnival and Royal Caribbean, making fare transparency more straightforward than ever. Plus, get the scoop on Norwegian Cruise Line's thrilling new itineraries in Asia and the South Pacific, featuring unforgettable voyages from Taiwan to Singapore and Fiji to Tahiti. Both cruises promise top-notch experiences aboard the newly refurbished Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sun ships. Tune in and let Inside Travel Talk be your go-to source for travel inspiration and practical advice for your next great adventure!

Send us a textReady for an adventure? This episode of Inside Travel Talk promises to unlock the secrets of the latest travel trends and unbeatable deals. We welcome back Mark Faldmo from his Caribbean cruise to discuss some thrilling updates in the travel world, including Frontier and Spirit Airlines' game-changing no change fees and bundled fares. Plus, we'll explore Israel's new electronic travel authorization and reveal what a recent survey says about the shift toward longer, more adventurous trips, with Europe taking the spotlight. Mark also takes us through the emerging trend of mindful vacations and unveils this week's hot travel deal: a luxurious escape to Cancun's El Dorado resorts with the innovative "More Inclusive" concept from Lomas Hospitality.In our feature segment, Mark recounts his memorable voyage on the MSC Meraviglia, providing detailed insights into the ship's food, amenities, and activities. From the indoor sports court to the exceptional dining experiences—especially the standout pizza—Mark covers it all. You'll also hear about the scenic departure from Brooklyn, New York, offering breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Verrazano Bridge. We wrap up with some exciting travel news, including the return of cruise ships to Baltimore and MSC's expansion at Port Canaveral, Florida. Mark's glowing review of the MSC Meraviglia, rated at 4.8 out of 5, underscores his recommendation for MSC cruises, highlighting their impressive improvements over the years. Tune in for a blend of travel news, personal experiences, and can't-miss deals!

Send us a textSet sail on a narrative journey where I recount the splendors of an MSC cruise, which includes an exclusive tease of the alluring Ocean Cay, MSC's private island paradise. Fasten your seatbelts as we also explore the thrilling possibilities of Las Vegas' future spaceport and dissect the extended Real ID deadline's impact on travel—ideal for those who've yet to update their IDs. Throughout the episode, we interlace personal anecdotes with enticing industry updates, ensuring you're equipped with the latest travel insights.Imagine the raw beauty of Africa on a safari adventure, hearing firsthand my encounters with majestic wildlife and the vibrant local communities. From the Great Migration's awe-inspiring spectacle to the hypnotic nocturnes of hippos, this episode paints a vivid picture of the African wilderness. Plus, if your heart beats for the call of the wild, don't miss our essential travel tips tailored for those ready to chart their own African journey.Finally, we examine the evolving landscape of cruise dining, where tradition meets innovation, and I share a cautionary tale that highlights the importance of meticulous packing. We then whisk you away to the unique Islands of the Southern Caribbean.

Send us a textGet ready to explore the vibrant heartbeat of Jamaica and the unfolding drama in the world of travel. Our latest episode takes you from Hawaii's crackdown on Airbnb to Southwest Airlines' new delay vouchers, then onto Westin's heavenly bed that's got us dreaming of a test snooze. Our packed itinerary also includes a detailed breakdown of Jamaican vacation packages departing from Salt Lake City, featuring plush stays like the Hyatt Ziva and adventurous escapades, such as a James Bond tour that'll leave you shaken and stirred. And of course, no visit to Jamaica would be complete without diving into the fiery delights of authentic jerk chicken!We're not just about the sun and the sand; tune in as I share the saga of my rebooked cruise and the latest scoop on Port Canaveral's expansion. Plus, for those enchanted by the fleeting beauty of tulips, we've got you covered with the best spots to catch these blossoms in all their glory. Whether you're dreaming of the quaint charm of Holland, Michigan's Tulip Festival or Europe's historic streets, we're bringing the vibrant colors and stories right to your ears. So grab your headphones and let's set sail on an auditory adventure that promises to fill your travel bucket list with new must-see destinations and experiences.

Send us a textEmbark on a journey with me, Mark Faldmo, as we navigate the latest wave of travel innovations and policies set to revolutionize your globetrotting adventures. Say goodbye to baggage blues with Delta Airlines' revamped check-in system, kick-started at Tokyo's Haneda Airport, promising to simplify that pesky recheck process stateside. As bureaucracy takes a backseat, your post-flight experience might just get a whole lot breezier. Meanwhile, the skies are abuzz with the sound of refunds, as a new mandate compels airlines to reimburse for significant delays or cancellations. I'll dissect what this means for your wallet and whether you'll be seeing more travel credits as airlines adapt to this shake-up. And for those with an eye on exotic locales, I'll let you in on Fiji Airways' enticing fare overhaul—think South Pacific dreams on a budget.Strap in as we take a cultural detour through Amsterdam's charming streets, exploring the city's bold steps to protect its allure by halting hotel sprawl—because sometimes, less is more. I'll share nuggets of wisdom on how to tread lightly as a traveler, savouring the offbeat rhythm of destinations like Antwerp without leaving heavy footprints. For the sea-faring folks, there's buzz over Virgin Voyages' upcoming Brilliant Lady, where I'll spill the details on service that goes the extra nautical mile for those with food allergies. And if you've ever fantasized about a month-long voyage through the Arctic Circle, I've got the scoop on Holland America's epic 28-day excursion—so impressive, you'll want to secure your spot before it's all just a sailor's tale. Join me for these stories and more, as we chart a course through the dynamic world of travel.

Send us a textDiscover how your future getaways might change with the DOT's new airline compensation guidelines affecting everything from your wallet to your itinerary. We'll navigate the potential upheaval in travel agency dynamics and ponder over Delta Airlines' boarding process overhaul, aiming for efficiency without compromising your travel needs. Joining us is David Charez from Villa Premier and the Buena Ventura Grand Hotel, who will share the soulful embrace of Puerto Vallarta's local hospitality and the city's transformation from a history-rich town to a traveler's paradise.Venture with us to the serene beaches and majestic Sierra Madre mountains as we explore the enchanting landscape of Puerto Vallarta through the eyes of its most welcoming beach hotels. Feel the pulse of luxury mixed with tradition at Villa Premier Boutique Hotel, an adults-only haven where European sophistication meets all-inclusive pleasure. Surrender to the organic haven of Serena spa and allow the artisanal gastronomy and melody of the waves to elevate your stay, as every room promises a golden ticket to the most mesmerizing sunsets.Wrap up your virtual journey as we highlight Puerto Vallarta's culinary prowess with insights from Nuit Hernandez of Beach Life Concierge Services, who points us to the finest dining gems like Barcelona Tapas and Margarita Grill. Gelsie Fadul from Costa Sur Resort and Spa unveils the secluded splendors of marine life and private beaches. This episode is your passport to the heart of luxury, adventure, and cultural richness that awaits in the vibrant embrace of Puerto Vallarta.

Send us a textSail away with us on the whimsical waves of Margaritaville at Sea, as we recount tales of our gastronomic conquests and serene beachside mornings on Grand Bahamas. Mark Faldmo and I, Patrick Wiscombe, indulge you with savory stories from Cheeseburger in Paradise Burger Bar and paint vivid pictures of relaxation amid the gentle island breeze. Plus, we don't shy away from the quirkier side of paradise, sharing our gleeful encounter with the Bahamian swimming pigs that's sure to leave you smiling and longing to join the fun.The enchantment doesn't stop at the shorelines; it extends to extraordinary places like the Galapagos Islands, where our friend David Torres offers a peek into a world brimming with unique wildlife and stunning geology. Imagine snorkeling alongside sea lions and marveling at the majesty of giant tortoises, all while absorbing David's expert insights into the awe-inspiring conservation efforts that preserve this magical archipelago. This episode is your ticket to discovering profound connections with nature that are as rare and precious as the islands themselves.