Some people know Virgin Voyages is their thing. Others are just… curious — intrigued, a little intimidated, quietly wondering if it's a ship for a cooler person than they are. This episode is for the curious.

It's the sequel to Ep 36 (Perfect Fit or Floating FOMO?) — the one you kept writing back about, asking the same question: okay, but how do I actually KNOW before I spend the money? Cameron's honest answer is that some things a quiz simply can't tell you — whether adults-only feels like freedom or like something's missing, whether a smaller ship feels intimate or cramped. You can't reason your way there. You have to stand on the ship.

So once a year, Cameron hosts a four-night Introduction to Virgin Voyages built for exactly that. Inside: why he makes people take a quiz that sometimes says "don't book," the case for going short first, who should skip the intro entirely, what changes when the person who booked it is standing right there at breakfast — and his honest relationship with a deadline on his own group sailing.

The sailing: Brilliant Lady, March 4–8, 2027 — round-trip Miami with Key West and the Beach Club at Bimini. Cameron and Jonathan are on board. Everything's at cjtravel.link/introvv

Take the free Perfect Cruise Quiz anytime at camjontravel.com.

• 00:00 — The sequel you wrote for me. Ep 36 (Perfect Fit or Floating FOMO?) hit a nerve, and almost everyone came back with the same question: okay, but how do I actually know before I spend the money?
• 01:04 — Are you "Virgin curious"? The cruiser who keeps hearing Virgin is "different" and can't tell if different means better — intrigued, a little intimidated, quietly wondering is this a ship for a cooler person than I am?
• 02:51 — The quiz that sometimes says "don't sail Virgin." Why a guy who sells Virgin Voyages built a free tool that talks some people out of it — and why that's self-defense, not sainthood.
• 05:12 — Fit before fare — and where a quiz hits its ceiling. Some questions no quiz can answer: does adults-only feel like freedom or like something's missing? Is "no buffet" liberating or annoying? Intimate ship or cramped ship? You have to stand on it.
• 07:16 — The fix: a 4-night Introduction to Virgin Voyages. Brilliant Lady, the newest ship in the fleet — round-trip Miami, Thursday to Monday, Key West + the Beach Club at Bimini. March 4–8, 2027.
• 08:20 — Why go short first. The whole industry upsells the longest sailing. For a first Virgin voyage, four nights is the smart bet — love it and you've found your line; don't and you spent four nights, not eleven. "The quiz you take with your feet."
• 09:40 — Who should skip this sailing. If you already love Virgin, book something longer and go somewhere this itinerary doesn't reach. This is a tool for one job — not the destination.
• 10:55 — "We're there." What a hosted voyage actually is: Cameron and Jonathan on board, a day-two get-together, a group dinner, a private crew community — because a first-timer doesn't need a concierge, they need a person.
• 11:53 — Solo, but not alone. One of the only ways to travel by yourself without traveling alone — come on your own, leave with a crew you keep up with.
• 12:27 — Deadlines, honestly. No blinking countdowns here. A date I set, I could move — the ship I can't. 16 cabins at the group price, early-bird date August 26. Clocks lie; inventory doesn't.
• 14:19 — Why this one's a little more sales-forward — and why a low-cost intro on one of the fastest-growing cruise lines is worth the ask.

Most travelers are already using AI to help plan their trips. The real question is whether they are using it safely.

In this episode of Know Where You Wanna Go Travel, Cameron DeJong revisits his earlier warning about trusting AI with travel planning and updates the conversation for where we are now. AI travel tools are not going away. Your neighbor is probably using them. You might be using them too. And that is okay, as long as you know where the danger zones are.

Cameron explains why AI should be treated like a smart, fast, eager intern. It can help brainstorm ideas, build a rough itinerary, organize options, suggest packing lists, and help you ask better questions. But it should not be the final decision-maker for anything involving money, dates, documents, entry requirements, pricing, hotel availability, restaurant hours, or travel logistics.

Because AI can still get things very wrong.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why AI is useful for brainstorming, but risky for booking

• How fake hotel details, outdated restaurant recommendations, and incorrect pricing can ruin a trip

• Why anything involving money, dates, or documents needs to be verified with a primary source

• How to give AI a better travel planning prompt so it gives you less generic advice

• Why you should ask, “What’s wrong with this itinerary?” before trusting an AI-generated plan

• How to use AI as a tool without letting it replace human judgment

• Why a real travel advisor still matters, especially for expensive or complicated trips

Cameron also shares the five “intern rules” for using AI responsibly in travel planning, including one of the most important reminders: AI can help plan the dream, but primary sources confirm reality.

If you are using ChatGPT or another AI tool to plan a vacation, cruise, honeymoon, family trip, or big bucket-list adventure, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes while still getting the best parts of what AI can offer.

Read the blog post:
https://camjontravel.com/stop-trusting-ai-travel-planning-chatgpt-ruining-vacations

Take the Perfect Cruise Quiz:
https://camjontravel.com/perfect-cruise-quiz

Learn more about CamJon Travel:
https://camjontravel.com

Two travelers email on the same day. One asks for the lowest price on a 7-night. The other asks whether the ship is even the right fit. Only one of them ends up genuinely happy, and it is not the one who led with price.

In this episode of the Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast, Cameron DeJong makes the case that chasing the cheapest cruise is the fastest way to end up with the wrong one. Price is the easiest thing to compare, so it is the thing everyone compares, and it quietly hides the four things that actually decide whether you love the trip: whether the ship and itinerary fit you, whether your cabin is in the right place, whether your fare tier matches how you travel, and whether a real person is in your corner when something goes sideways.

Cameron is direct about his own bias as a travel advisor, then walks through why the price-first reflex still costs you, including the truth about rebate and cash-back booking sites and the "but I found it cheaper" myth. This is a point-of-view episode, the companion to Episode 34 on cruise misinformation and Episode 36 on finding the right fit. It is for anyone about to book who is tempted to let the lowest number make the decision for them.

Resources mentioned:

Take the Perfect Cruise Quiz: https://camjontravel.com/Perfect-Cruise-Quiz

Why cruise rebating costs you more than it saves: https://camjontravel.com/the-sickness-of-commission-rebating-in-cruise-bookings/

VoyageFair Choices fare guide with interactive calculator: https://camjontravel.com/virgin-voyages-fare-types-base-essential-premium/

Bar Tab Calculator: https://camjontravel.com/Bar-Tab-Calculator.htm

Book your Virgin Voyages cruise: https://www.virginvoyages.com/book/voyage-planner/find-a-voyage?currencyCode=USD&agencyId=50976&agentId=273002

Start planning with Cameron: https://camjontravel.com/contact

About the host:

Cameron DeJong is the Managing Partner of CamJon Travel, a Virgin Voyages-exclusive travel agency, and a Top 100 Virgin Voyages First Mate for North America 2025 (top 1% of more than 22,000 advisors). CamJon Travel holds a Platinum Tier service standard, CamJon Travel's own self-defined commitment to white-glove planning, and is hyper-niched on Virgin Voyages on purpose, because matching sailors to the right voyage matters more than winning a race to the lowest price.

Stay connected:

Instagram and Facebook: @CamJonTravelWebsite: https://camjontravel.com

Thank you for listening. Keep being awesome.

Virgin Voyages may be one of the most talked-about cruise lines right now, but that does not automatically mean it is the right fit for every traveler.

In this episode of the Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast, Cam DeJong shares an honest look at why Virgin Voyages, and cruising in general, may not be for everyone. Before you book based on glowing reviews, social media hype, or what worked for someone else, it is important to understand your own travel style.

Cam breaks down what makes Virgin Voyages different, including the adults-only atmosphere, no traditional buffets, included dining, unique entertainment, and a very different approach to the cruise experience. He also explains why he created the Perfect Cruise Quiz and how it helps travelers think through what actually matters before choosing a cruise.

This episode is especially helpful for first-time cruisers, experienced sailors considering Virgin Voyages, or anyone who wants to avoid booking regret.

In this episode:

00:20 - The danger of choosing a vacation based on social media chatter
01:57 - Why Cam created the Perfect Cruise Quiz
02:27 - Virgin Voyages basics: adults-only, no buffets, included food, and unique entertainment
03:43 - What really determines cruise compatibility
06:09 - Why there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all vacation
06:21 - Virgin Voyages entertainment compared to traditional cruise shows
08:49 - Why online reviews and AI travel recommendations need a reality check
08:52 - The value of working with an informed travel advisor or First Mate
10:18 - Why first-time cruisers may adjust to Virgin better than cruise veterans
13:02 - When cruising may not be the right answer, and why that is okay

Take the Perfect Cruise Quiz:
https://camjontravel.com/perfect-cruise-quiz/

Learn more about CamJon Travel:
https://camjontravel.com

Subscribe to the Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast for honest travel conversations, Virgin Voyages insights, destination inspiration, and practical advice to help you choose the vacation that truly fits you.

Alaska cruising has looked the same for nearly 40 years — Holland America, Princess, Norwegian, big ships, multi-gen families, buffets, formal nights. In May 2026, that changes. Virgin Voyages' newest ship, Brilliant Lady, sails her first-ever Alaska season from Seattle, and almost everything about it is different.

In this episode, Cameron DeJong breaks down what Virgin Voyages' Alaska debut actually looks like, who it's perfect for, and — just as importantly — who should absolutely pick a different cruise line. This isn't a sales pitch. It's the honest conversation every potential sailor needs before spending thousands of dollars on a cruise they might not love.

What's covered:

- Brilliant Lady's 2026 Alaska itineraries from Seattle (Ketchikan, Sitka, Endicott Arm, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Prince Rupert)

- How Virgin Voyages dining, shore excursions, and onboard vibe differ from Holland America and Princess

- Why the Virgin Voyages proposition trips up first-time sailors who expect a traditional Alaska cruise

- Who Virgin Voyages Alaska is NOT for (and why Cameron tells potential sailors to book elsewhere when it's not a fit)

- The specific types of travelers who will LOVE Brilliant Lady in Alaska

- Why waiting until 2027 might make sense for some sailors

- New Happening Cast additions for the Alaska season — including a naturalist and a lumberjack

Whether you're a first-time cruiser, a Virgin Voyages loyalist curious about Alaska, or someone weighing Brilliant Lady against Holland America or Princess, this episode will help you figure out if this inaugural season is right for you.

🔗 RESOURCES MENTIONED

Take the Perfect Cruise Quiz → https://camjontravel.com/Perfect-Cruise-Quiz

Bar Tab Calculator → https://camjontravel.com/Bar-Tab-Calculator

Learn about Virgin Voyages Alaska on Brilliant Lady → https://camjontravel.com/alaska-reimagined-the-ultimate-guide-to-virgin-voyages-brilliant-lady-from-seattle-2026/

Book your Virgin Voyages cruise → https://www.virginvoyages.com/book/voyage-planner/find-a-voyage?currencyCode=USD&agencyId=50976&agentId=273002

Ask Cameron a question → https://camjontravel.com/contact

🎙️ ABOUT THE HOST

Cameron DeJong is the Managing Partner of CamJon Travel, a Virgin Voyages-exclusive travel agency, and a Top 100 Virgin Voyages First Mate for North America 2025 (top 1% of 22,000+ advisors). CamJon Travel is hyper-niched on Virgin Voyages, and that's intentional — Cameron believes in matching sailors to the right cruise line, even when that means recommending someone else.

📬 STAY CONNECTED

Instagram & Facebook: @CamJonTravel

Website: camjontravel.com

Thanks for listening. Keep being awesome.

Most cruise advice online is misleading—or worse, completely wrong. If you’re planning a Virgin Voyages trip or want to avoid misinformation that could ruin your experience, this episode is your must-listen.

Cameron DeJong, a seasoned travel expert, uncovers the biggest cruise myths, from obstructed-view cabins to fake deals, and explains why cruise Facebook groups and Reddit often do more harm than good.

You'll discover how common misconceptions spread like wildfire in online communities—and how those stories can lead to missed reservations, nasty surprises, or even unnecessary anxiety.

Cameron shares insider strategies to identify trustworthy info, from the shady tactics of cruise agencies to the pitfalls of relying on AI or outdated advice. Plus, learn the critical questions to ask yourself before accepting anything as gospel: Is this advice coming from a real expert or a business with an agenda?

• ​Virgin Voyages Official Site: https://www.virginvoyages.com/v/homepage?agencyId=589&agentId=38927 (this is the CamJon Travel "affiliate link". If you choose to book through this link we will receive a commission and you will be a CamJon VIP. Great combination, right? :)
• ​Matt Hochberg: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2025/03/28/experts-recommend-cruise-facebook-group
• ​Understanding Rebate and Commission Policies: https://camjontravel.com/the-sickness-of-commission-rebating-in-cruise-bookings/
• ​Debunking Cruise Myths blogs: https://camjontravel.com/i-read-it-on-facebook-why-cruise-groups-are-leading-you-astray/

• ​Facebook: https://facebook.com/CamJonTravel
• ​Instagram: https://instagram.com/CamJonTravel

Craving a Caribbean escape that offers more than turquoise waters?

In this episode of the Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast, host Cam DeJong chats with Mark Pinnell from The Dive Bus Curacao—one of the island’s most beloved dive operations.

Whether you’re an experienced diver, a beginner, or just curious about what makes Curaçao unique, you’ll get insider tips on why this Dutch Caribbean gem is especially welcoming, what sets its reefs apart, and how you can make the most of a cruise stop or land-based visit.

Plus, we reveal our favorite eats, activities, and beaches—and share why Curaçao should be at the top of your travel wishlist.

Show Notes:

Special Guest:

Mark Pinnell, co-founder of The Dive Bus Curacao

Topics Covered:

Mark’s journey from the Bahamas to building The Dive Bus into the island’s top-rated dive experience

Why Curaçao is the “unhidden” gem of the Caribbean, especially for divers

Comparisons with Bonaire and Aruba: accessibility, reefs, activities, and family-friendly features

Insider tips for cruise ship visitors (what to do if you only have a few hours!)

How newbie divers can feel comfortable and safe with shore diving at The Dive Bus

Mark’s favorite spots for food—including fish restaurants, local markets, and the food truck culture

Activities and must-see historic highlights in Willemstad, from the floating bridge to UNESCO sites

How to book your Curaçao adventure—whether you want to dive in for a day or totally immerse yourself

Featured Links:

The Dive Bus Curacao: https://thedivebus.com

CamJon Travel: https://camjontravel.com

Book Your Virgin Voyages Cruise (special link): https://www.virginvoyages.com/?agentId=38927&agencyId=589

Quick Highlights:

Curaçao’s shore diving is accessible and perfect for beginners; advanced divers love the variety (Mark recommends the local house reef and, for those with more time, the stunning “Superior Producer” wreck)

Outside the water: Try local seafood by the weight, visit community markets (Marshe Bieu), or just soak up history downtown

The Dive Bus team is known for humor, comfort, personal service, and great equipment—making repeat divers feel at home

Connect & Book:

Want more advice or ready to plan your trip? Reach out via CamJon Travel and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Discover The Dive Bus on Instagram, Facebook, and their website!

Show Notes: Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast
Episode 32: Safety First – The Top 5 Safest Caribbean Cruise Destinations for 2025
Host: Cam DeJong
(Aug 22, 2025)

Episode Summary:
In this special episode—also our first video podcast!—Cam DeJong dives into the crucial topic of safety for your Caribbean travels, especially when cruising. Cam breaks down a new top 5 list (with a tie for third place!) of the safest Caribbean destinations for 2025, based on a study by Always All Inclusive. He explores what “safety” means in travel—not just crime rates but also hurricane exposure, healthcare, and even port logistics—and emphasizes the importance of always using common sense, no matter where you go.

You’ll also hear insights into why certain islands made the list, specific port experiences, as well as a sneak peek into Cam’s upcoming group cruise itinerary! If you’re planning a Caribbean vacation or just want to travel smarter and safer, this episode is packed with helpful info and honest perspective.

Links to Places & Resources Mentioned:

• Always All Inclusive (Source of Top 10 Safety List) – Always All Inclusive

• Antigua and Barbuda (Ranked #5, Calm beaches, regulated tourism) – Visit Antigua and Barbuda

• Grenada (Tied #3, Relaxed vibe, manageable ports) – Pure Grenada

• Curaçao (Tied #3, Walkable, outside hurricane belt) – Curacao.com

• Barbados (Ranked #2, Well-organized tourism, strong healthcare) – Visit Barbados

• Aruba (Ranked #1, Low risk, strong infrastructure, outside hurricane zone) – Aruba.com

• Saint Martin (Bonus mention, wonderful island) – Saint Martin Tourism

• Cam’s Upcoming Group Cruise + More Info: CamJonTravel.com

Key Takeaways:

• Safety isn’t just about crime—consider weather, healthcare, and port experiences.

• Top 5 safest Caribbean cruise destinations for 2025:

  1. Antigua and Barbuda

  2. Barbados

  3. (tie) Grenada & Curaçao

  4. Aruba

• Always use common sense, even in the safest destinations.

• Cam will be visiting Aruba, Curaçao, and Antigua in January—join the group cruise!

Special Thanks:
Thanks to Always All Inclusive for their research and to everyone who’s supported the podcast. Stay tuned for the next travel-packed episode!

Want to cruise with Cam or join the conversation? Visit CamJonTravel.com to learn more!

In this episode, Cam dives into the latest updates from Virgin Voyages, focusing on three key topics: the 2025 Eat & Drink Festival across Virgin’s lady ships, group celebrations and event travel (including their unique “circles” program), and the expansion of longer cruise itineraries. Expect details about fun new culinary experiences, group perks, and why now is a fantastic time to set sail—whether you want a quick getaway or an immersive holiday at sea.

What to Expect:

• Contact CamJon Travel

• Read the CamJon Travel Blog

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, or follow us wherever you get your podcasts! If you have feedback or episode suggestions, let us know through our website.

Thanks for traveling with us and tuning in to Virgin Voyages updates! See you next episode.

In this episode, Cam DeJong takes listeners on a culinary journey aboard Virgin Voyages. As a managing partner at CamJon Travel, Cam offers an insider's perspective on the diverse and unique dining options available on Virgin Voyages cruises.

Listeners learn about the relaxed dress codes, the absence of buffets, and the all-day food hall known as the Galley. Cam highlights standout restaurants such as Gunbae, The Wake, and Extra Virgin, offering insights into their offerings and ambiance.

The episode also touches on dietary accommodations and tips for securing reservations. For more detailed information, Cam recommends visiting the blog on CamJon Travel's website at https://camjontravel.com

Key Points:

1. Introduction to Virgin Voyages Dining:

   • Emphasis on varied and upscale yet casual dining.

   • Unique absence of traditional buffets.

2. Highlights of Dining Options:

   • The Galley: A 24/7 food hall with various stations offering diverse cuisine, including sushi, burgers, and more.

   • Gunbae: A Korean steakhouse known for its evolving menu and lively atmosphere.

3. Featured Restaurants:

   • The Wake: A steakhouse with high-quality service and premium cuts.

   • Razzle Dazzle: Offers vegan and vegetarian-forward dishes with meat options.

   • Pink Agave: Known for its wide selection of tequila and authentic Mexican cuisine.

   • Extra Virgin: Cam's favorite, an Italian restaurant with exceptional service and fresh dishes.

4. Casual and Snack Options:

   • The Dock: Offers finger foods with a potential Greek flair.

   • Social Club: Features snacks like popcorn and hot dogs.

   • Lick Me Till Ice Cream: Daily homemade flavors of ice cream.

5. Dietary Accommodations and Reservations:

   • Challenges and accommodations for dietary needs like gluten-free and diabetes.

   • Advice on making reservations through the Virgin Voyages app for optimal dining experience.

6. Additional Information:

   • CamJon Travel Blog: For a detailed restaurant guide and more insights about Virgin Voyages.

Links:

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe, comment, like, and share this podcast with friends and family. Stay tuned for episode 31 featuring a special surprise.

Thank you for listening to the Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast and exploring the exciting dining options with us on Virgin Voyages!