Inside Travel Talk

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We, Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo, have done the digging for you and found some hidden gems in the Black Friday offers. We're revealing the best deals, including those from MSC Cruise Lines, and also sharing important travel advisories to keep you safe and informed.

But our journey doesn't stop there. We're taking you off-the-beaten-path, sharing our personal travel tales and top tips. Ever wondered what grasshopper dipped in mole tastes like in West Coast Mexico? Or how to save on airline fare pricing? We've got you covered. Plus, Mark shares his captivating experience touring a local farm in Montenegro and visiting the magical island of Our Lady of the Rocks. You'll definitely want to hear about his travel tips for Uber, Lyft, and taxis. So pack your bags and join us on this exciting journey, and remember, we're always here for your travel-related questions!

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Ever swerved to avoid a tarantula and caused a mishap? That's exactly what a tourist in California did.  We're talking travel news, from Hawaii to the high seas, and the interesting story of Passports being confiscated by a cruise line. If you've wondered why cruise lines sometimes take your passport, you're about to get some answers.

Picture this: you're boarding the stunning, newly introduced Norwegian Aqua. We're unraveling the different fantastic promotions rolling out for this new ship. If you only had one day on Oahu in Hawaii, what would you do? We've got the best tips to make your tropical adventure truly memorable. 

Finally, we're taking a peek into the future with the latest in travel tech and promotions. From Delta's groundbreaking move introducing free Wi-Fi on all their aircraft to the Bahamas cruise with MSC cruise lines, we're covering it all. We're also discussing the implications of AI in travel planning and the irreplaceable role of professional travel advisors. So sit tight, as we wrap up with the best promotional offers in the market. Let's sail through this incredible travel journey together!

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Get ready for an adventure as we take you on a travel escapade, revealing some of the most exciting travel deals and insider secrets. Let's buckle up and head to the idyllic island of Maui, where we're unearthing a fantastic bargain at the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort - a five-night sojourn for a mere $1459 per person, airfare included! Did that pique your interest? Well, hold on tight, because there's more. 

The journey doesn't stop there. We'll also take you on a whirlwind tour to Wailea, where the Wailea Marriott offers a dreamy escape. In between these travel tips and deals, prepare to laugh out loud as we recount the story of a man's daring dip in a lake at Disney World's Epcot Center. We'll also give you a glimpse of the new airport in Tulum, Mexico, making your Riviera Maya trip more hassle-free. And speaking of adventure, join our very own Mark as he recounts his ziplining experience in Costa Rica and his unforgettable journey aboard the Star Clippers. It's a wild ride through travel tips, deals, and adrenaline-pumping stories – you don't want to miss it!

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From Europe River Cruises to the uplifting exploration of Mexico’s Magic Towns, this episode is your travel companion - opening up a world of folklore, history, and beauty that will make you want to pack your bags.

Seeking a deeper connection with Mexico? Well, you are in for a treat! We whisk you away on a virtual tour to five "Magic Towns" in Mexico near Cancun, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta. Picture yourself strolling through the sun-soaked town square of Valladolid, catching waves in the surfer town of Sayulita, or tapping into your inner bohemian in the mountain town of San Sebastian - we've got the best insider tips to offer. Oh, and did we mention our favorite Magic Town, El Fuerte, the land where the legendary Zoro draws his roots from? 

But it's not just about land-based adventures, we're also navigating the high seas with a comprehensive look at the top cruise lines for families, couples, and those seeking the best bang for their buck. We'll guide you through pre-paying gratuities on a cruise, and why it's a beneficial option for many. On the airline front, we're opening up about loyalty programs from Delta, Southwest, and more, including a frank discussion about their benefits and possible devaluations. Closing the curtains with a sneak peek into Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton hotel loyalty programs, we gear you up with the essentials to make your travel journey seamless and rewarding. Tune in, and let's embark on this thrilling voyage together!

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Ever wondered how to travel smarter and save more? Want to experience breathtaking sights without breaking the bank? Join us, Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo, as we take you on a journey through the world of travel, sharing our insights and tips, from dealing with the controversial changes in Delta Airlines' medallion statuses, to smartly timing your trips, especially to places like Italy, to avoid peak-season price hikes. 

That's not all. We're sharing 21 life-changing trips, placing special focus on the enchanting sights of Fiji and the spectacular Northern Lights. Lastly, we tackle the unwelcome surprise of junk fees in travel bookings. So whether you're a seasoned jet-setter or an occasional tourist, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate your travel adventures. Buckle up and get ready for an informative ride!

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Ever thought of how to get the most out of your travel experiences? Buckle up as we journey through must-know travel etiquette, essential pre-travel steps, and unique worldwide destinations. Tag along on our adventures with Mark's trip to Cancun, my exciting adventure to Alaska, and our shared insights about the State Department's STEP program. We underscore the critical role this program plays in offering safety information for various destinations, even taking a deep dive into the travel advisory for Israel. 

Now, who’s been on a plane or cruise and cringed at the lack of etiquette around you? From asking someone to switch seats on a plane to long-term boat travel's impacts on the human body, we're dishing out everything you need to know. Listen in as I share my experiences embarking from Seattle and the nuances of various cabin types. Wondering what 'sweet access' really means? And the real cost of using your phone on a cruise? We've got it all covered!

And of course, no travel talk would be complete without discussing the mind-opening experiences it offers. Tune in as Mark recounts his encounters in Eastern Europe and Serbia, specifically in the unique cultural hub of Novostad. We delve into the issue of overtourism in places like Venice, and how to enjoy these destinations responsibly. Yacht through Europe's Southern Fjord before hopping onto the Aranui cruise ship, an out-of-the-box concept that combines a cruise and container ship. Lastly, we'll take you on a cultural rendezvous to the Marquesas Islands. If you're keen on expanding your travel knowledge, this episode is just the ticket. So, ready to trot the globe with us?

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Ready to explore the world in a truly spooky style? Strap in as we tour you through some of the most thrilling destinations to visit during the Halloween season. Anak, Minnesota, is our first stop, boasting a month-long celebration of all things ghoulish and ghostly. We'll also uncover lesser-known facts about Sleepy Hollow, New York, and Salem, Massachusetts, and how their histories are intertwined with Halloween. To top it off, we're sharing our favorite cruise ports, from Malta's spectacular sights in the Mediterranean to the iconic New York Harbor, San Francisco, and Sydney Harbor.

Next up, we'll whisk you away to the paradise islands of Hawaii, recently reopened West Maui area to be precise. Here you'll discover unique volunteer activities that will enrich your trip. Can you imagine helping to preserve the natural beauty of these islands while enjoying your vacation? We thought so! But hold on, we're not done yet. We're also reminiscing about our favorite memories from two must-visit locations - Paris and Thailand. From Bangkok's hustle and bustle, the serene beaches of Phuket, to the mesmerizing Nag Nha Bay, you'll feel like you've experienced these exotic destinations in person.

To wrap things up, we'll sail off to the enticing world of transatlantic and South Pacific cruises. We'll provide valuable insights on the luxurious offerings of Cunard Cruise Line and their transatlantic crossings from New York City to Southampton. Lastly, we'll dive into the unique 35-day cruise round trip from San Diego to Hawaii, Fanning Island, and Tahiti offered by Holland America. It's all about the journey, and we can't wait to share ours with you. Tune in, and let's embark on this exciting journey of exploration and discovery together!

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Ready to explore the world without leaving your comfort zone? Embark on a journey from the frosty landscapes of Alaska to the sunny shores of Greece! Tune in to this episode of Inside Travel Talk, where we kick off the adventure with a fun travel pop quiz. We'll reveal some secrets about my upcoming Alaskan cruise, discuss some of the best cruise lines, and dish on the latest travel news.

Can you handle the wild? Tag along to the untamed wilderness of African safaris, where we'll give you the lowdown on 21 must-visit global destinations. To sweeten the deal, we'll whisk you away to the vibrant Greek islands, stir in some culinary delights of rooftop dining, and sprinkle in some insider's tips on short excursions. So grab your passport, and prepare to globe-trot with us!

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Ever dreamed of sailing through airport security with ease? Imagine a world where you can breeze through passport control with the help of cutting-edge biometric sensors. This isn't a dream, it's the future of travel. From Singapore's innovative airport security plans to the potential merger of JetBlue and Spirit Airlines, we unpack what it all means for you, your travel plans, and the industry at large. We'll also help you navigate the ins and outs of TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry, giving you the low-down on how you can enhance your traveling experience.

We love sharing tips to make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable, so we're delving into the world of Airbnb and revealing the changes customers are craving. With lower cleaning fees, verified properties, a guest loyalty program, and a better review system topping the list, these changes could redefine your stay. Add to this the excitement of Delta's expansion into China and comprehensive coverage of must-see destinations like Italy and Machu Picchu, and we promise you an episode jam-packed with valuable information.

As for the adventurous souls, we've got something special for you. Our journey to majestic Machu Picchu was an unforgettable experience. We'll share insider tips on the different entrances, altitude adjustments between Cusco and Machu Picchu, and the unique charm of staying in an Amazon rainforest lodge. Wrapping up the episode, we are so grateful for your continued support and can't wait to help you explore more of the world in our future episodes. So, buckle up and let's embark on this journey together!

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Ever wondered what the world looks like from the deck of a cruise ship in Alaska? Or perhaps you've been itching to feel the warm Hawaiian sands between your toes? Strap in, fellow travelers, as we take you on a whirlwind adventure across the globe- from Alaska's Glaciers to the fiery volcanoes of Hawaii. We also dive deep into the mesmerizing allure of Hawaii, focusing on how Maui will reopened after the Lahaina fires, and why it is perfect for your next vacation.

Have you ever been caught up in the whirlwind of a hurricane, and wondered how it affects your travel plans? Let's navigate the stormy seas of hurricane season and its impacts on travel. We share a riveting story of a personal encounter with a hurricane in Cancun and highlight tempting deals from Frontier Airlines and the Azul Beach Resort. Next, we paint a vibrant picture of New York City, exploring everything from the iconic Statue of Liberty and Broadway shows to hidden gems like the Burger Joint. 

Life's short, so why not fill it with unforgettable experiences? Let's celebrate the joy of exploration, the thrill of adventure, and the myriad of worldwide destinations that await. We discuss the awe-inspiring beauty of Petra and emphasize the importance of carving out time to see the world. From planning your next globetrotting adventure to reminiscing about past journeys, join us for a conversation that celebrates the wanderlust in all of us. Tune into Inside Travel Talk and let's start exploring your world, one destination at a time!