In this episode, we are live from aboard the Crown Princess as we sail along the coast of Australia and are sharing the highs, hiccups, and unforgettable moments from the start of our 3-week adventure through Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. From emergency medical landings and luggage weight surprises to whale sightings and stunning views in Hobart, this episode captures the real, raw, and magical moments that happen when you travel across the world (sometimes on crutches).

Whether you’re dreaming of cruising through the South Pacific or just want to hear what happens when your carry-on is too heavy in Australia, you’re going to love this behind-the-scenes peek into life at sea.

Why getting to Tasmania is no small feat from Florida 

Why Virgin Australia’s strict carry-on weight limits caught them off guard 

A review of the Tasman Hotel in Hobart (Marriott Luxury Collection) 

How locals in Tasmania and Eden warmly welcome cruise travelers 

What makes the Salamanca Market a must-do Saturday experience 

The once-in-a-lifetime whale encounter in Eden you have to hear to believe 

Our first impressions of Princess Cruises vs. Holland America 

Real talk about traveling in an inside cabin for 3 weeks (and how to make the most of it!) 

How this cruise gets us prepared to check the final continent off their list

Episode 139 - Seeing the World, from Tasmania to Singapore - In Memory of Gene Bright

Episode 142 - Discovering Malaysia: Insider Tips on Kuala Lumpur and Penang with Colin + Meg

Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

Of course! Here’s your revised version of the description and What You’ll Hear in This Episode section, written in the first person to match your friendly, storytelling podcast style:

It’s been 20 years since Scott last visited Hong Kong, and in this episode, we’re heading back together for a short visit packed with big experiences. From the unforgettable view of Victoria Harbour to the nostalgic sound of the ding ding trams, we’re sharing our whole plan for exploring the city, including a DIY transportation tour and a day at Hong Kong Disneyland (Melissa’s 4th Disney park!). Whether you’re planning a stopover in Hong Kong or just dreaming of your next international adventure, come along as we show you how to experience the best of the city in just a couple of days.

Why we chose to stop in Hong Kong on our way home from Asia

The reason Scott’s been dreaming of taking Melissa on this transportation tour for 20 years

Where we'll stay and why the location made all the difference

How we planned to experience Hong Kong’s best transportation in one night:

MTR

Star Ferry

Peak Tram

Ding Ding double-decker trams

City bus

SoHo’s outdoor escalator

Melissa’s excitement about visiting Hong Kong Disneyland

Unique attractions we can’t wait to see

Local eats we’re hoping to try, from Michelin-starred roasted goose to Hong Kong milk tea

Why Scott expects this visit to feel both nostalgic and completely new

What we’re most looking forward to sharing with you in future episodes as we kick off this next leg of our journey

Episode 139 - Seeing the World, from Tasmania to Singapore - In Memory of Gene Bright

Episode 142 - Discovering Malaysia: Insider Tips on Kuala Lumpur and Penang with Colin + Meg

Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

Iceland’s Winter Magic, A Mediterranean Dream, and What About That Cruise Status? 

This week’s episode is packed with some serious wanderlust fuel. We’re talking:

1. A snowy escape to Iceland for under $300

2. A 25 or 50-day Mediterranean cruise that starts and ends in Florida

3. And big news from Royal Caribbean Group on a game-changing loyalty update

Links from this episode - Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

1. Icelandair Winter Escape 

2. Princess Cruises – Grand Mediterranean Odyssey 

3. Royal Caribbean Group Loyalty Program Update 

Let us handle the details!

Visit 👉 SunXTravel.com to start planning your next adventure with our help.

and use code PODCAST to unlock your membership for just $50/year

✈️ Travel more. Spend less. Skip the Search. 

Disclaimer: All travel offers shared are subject to availability and may change without notice. Sunshine Travelers Podcast and Travel Deal Insiders curate deals from trusted travel suppliers but do not guarantee pricing, availability, or booking conditions. Please refer to the original provider or booking platform for the most up-to-date information, terms, and conditions. Travel Deal Insiders and Sunshine Travelers are not responsible for third-party content, pricing errors, or changes in promotions.

Some links in this email may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book or purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. We only share deals we genuinely believe in and would recommend regardless of compensation. See our full disclaimer here.

What happens when you have just one day in Singapore—and limited mobility? In this episode, Scott and Melissa share their one-day itinerary for Singapore, designed around accessibility, intention, and immersive experiences. From Gardens by the Bay to the Marina Bay Sands rooftop and an unforgettable hawker center dinner, they show how even a short stay can be meaningful and inspiring.

Whether you’re navigating an injury, a layover, or just want to slow down and soak up Singapore’s energy, this episode proves you don’t need a week (or perfect health) to experience something extraordinary.

What to do if you forget your ID at the airport (TSA tips & tricks)

 How Singapore ranks in accessibility and why it’s perfect for travelers with mobility challenges

 How to make the most of Gardens by the Bay—Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and Supertree Grove

Where to eat with a view at Marina Bay Sands (Spago, CÉ LA VI)

How to experience a Michelin-rated hawker center meal for just a few dollars

Best way to enjoy the Marina Bay Light & Water Show

Why Singapore’s Changi Airport is a destination in itself (and how to plan time there!)

What to pack for Singapore’s hot, humid, and rainy weather

Morning: 

Drop bags at the hotel near Marina Bay

Explore Gardens by the Bay: Cloud Forest & Flower Dome (fully accessible)

Stroll through Supertree Grove

Midday: 

Head to Marina Bay Sands for lunch with a skyline view (or we may book the observation deck ticket

Afternoon to Evening: 

Visit Lau Pa Sat hawker center for iconic Singapore street food: satay skewers, chili crab, and Hainanese chicken rice

End with the Spectra Light & Water Show along the promenade

Next Morning: 

Plan extra time to explore Jewel Changi Airport before your flight: Rain Vortex, lush gardens, and 250+ shops & cafes

Relax with a coffee in one of the world’s most beautiful airports

Singapore is one of the most accessible cities in the world, with elevators, smooth walkways, and air-conditioned paths throughout

Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and a compact umbrella for Singapore’s wet, hot climate

Choose a centrally located hotel to cut down on transport and walking

Save room for the hawker center food—it’s more than a meal, it’s a cultural experience 

We’re Scott and Melissa Barronton, a married couple on a mission to help you travel more and better. Each week we bring you practical travel tips, destination guides, and personal stories from our global adventures.

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts

Follow us on Instagram

Subscribe to our Channel us on YouTube and follow our Travels

Start planning your next trip with us

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

Many thanks to our friends Colin + Meg for coming on the show again to share his love and knowledge of Malaysia with us.  Please follow them on Instagram at @colinandmeg and @dailystepswithmeg, as well as on their YouTube channel, @colinandmeg, where they share their experiences traveling the world with Airbnb as the world reopened post-pandemic to places like Malaysia, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, Hawaii, and many more. Their joy and sense of adventure and wanderlust are contagious. 

Explore Malaysia beyond the tourist trail. In this episode, we sit down with Colin & Meg to uncover local insights, can’t-miss foods, cultural tips, and how to explore Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and beyond like an insider.

Its neighbors often overshadow Malaysia, but this culturally rich, flavor-packed country deserves its own spotlight. In this episode, we’re joined by returning guests Colin and Meg, this time with a deeply personal twist.

Colin grew up in Malaysia and shares his insider knowledge, while Meg offers her perspective as a traveler and now family member immersed in the culture. Together, they help us plan for our own upcoming stops in Kuala Lumpur and Penang — and inspire us to look deeper, eat well, and travel more mindfully.

What makes Malaysia so unique (and underrated!)

Colin’s ultimate Malaysian food list — and why every visit is one long food tour

What to do in Kuala Lumpur (hint: temples, towers, and city vibes)

Why Penang is the food capital — and the best way to taste your way through it

Off-the-beaten-path ideas in Borneo: Orangutans, pygmy elephants, overwater bungalows, and jungle safaris

How shopping malls are cultural hubs — and where to find the best local eats

Tips for tourists: cultural respect, curiosity, and how to connect meaningfully

You’ll hear a deeper explanation in the episode, but here’s your cheat sheet:

Nasi Lemak – coconut rice, sambal, curry (yes, for breakfast!)

Char Kway Teow – Penang-style fried rice noodles

Curry Mee – spicy noodle soup

Chicken Rice – simple, savory, and iconic

Dim Sum – especially for breakfast

Roti Canai – flaky Indian-style bread with curry

Satay – grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce

Teh Tarik – sweet Malaysian pulled tea

Samosas & Street Snacks – grab-and-go gems in Penang

Hawker Stall Favorites – always ask the locals for the best ones!

Kuala Lumpur: 

Explore temples, city landmarks, and shopping malls

Eat at hidden hawker stalls and local food courts

Visit Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, and local neighborhoods

Penang (Georgetown): 

Walkable, full of colonial charm and street art

Home to Michelin guide street food 

Best explored on foot or via a food tour

Borneo/Sabah: 

Visit orangutan sanctuaries and river safaris

See pygmy elephants and rare wildlife

Stay in overwater bungalows or riverside lodges

Climb Mount Kinabalu or explore coral reefs in Sipadan

Comfortable walking shoes (for hawker-hopping)

Lightweight clothing (hot + humid!)

Modest options for temples and rural areas

Insulated Reusable water bottle + cash for food courts

Big appetite and adventurous spirit!

Website: ColinandMeg.com

Instagram: @colinandmeg

✈️ Plan your trip with us: sunxtravel.com

📍 Listen to: Episode 140 – Planning for Lombok, Indonesia

🍲 Want help planning an itinerary? Reach out to us — we’d love to help!

Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple or Spotify! It helps others find the show and supports our mission to help you travel more and better.

Want help booking one of these deals? Visit SunXTravel.com and let us take care of the details for your next trip.

Deal 1: 15-Day North Pacific Crossing with Holland America Line, sailing from Tokyo, Japan to Vancouver, Canada aboard the Westerdam.

This is a repositioning cruise, which means you’re getting some of the best value on the ocean — especially if you’ve always wanted to experience both Japan and Alaska on the same trip.

It departs April 13, 2026, and here’s the best part:

Inside cabins are starting at just $1,724 per person, including taxes and fees — that’s for 15 days at sea, meals, entertainment, and stops in multiple countries.

You’ll explore Kushiro in Japan, then cross the Pacific with relaxing sea days before stopping in places like Kodiak, Seward, Inside Passage, Sitka, Ketchikan, and finally docking in Vancouver.

View the full cruise deal here 

Deal #2: Sandals Regency La Toc – St. Lucia (All-Inclusive) 

Right now, Sandals is offering an insane stacked promotion at their Regency La Toc resort in St. Lucia:

Up to $1,000 off 

1 free night with a 7+ night stay

$175 resort credit 

$100 web booking bonus or we can book it for you and still get this discount!

Rooms start at just $274 per person per night, including premium food, drinks, activities, and even golf.

This is a perfect adults-only escape for honeymoons, milestone anniversaries, or just reconnecting with your partner.

Check availability & book here

Deal #3: Oceania’s 15-Day Luxury Caribbean Cruise – Roundtrip from Tampa 

This 15-day Leeward Isles Serenade cruise with Oceania Cruises departs March 3, 2026, roundtrip from Tampa aboard the Insignia.

It visits St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbados, St. Barts, San Juan, and more—all with Oceania’s signature small-ship luxury and The Finest Cuisine at Sea®.

💸 Fares start at $4,999 per guest, and there’s a special bonus offer right now—you can get up to a 2-category stateroom upgrade if you book a PH1 to G category.

 Explore the voyage and book

Want even more exclusive travel deals emailed straight to your inbox? Join Travel Deal Insiders at sunshinetravelers.com/deals  and use code PODCAST to unlock your membership for just $50/year

Travel more. Spend less. Skip the Search. 

Disclaimer: All travel offers shared are subject to availability and may change without notice. Sunshine Travelers Podcast and Travel Deal Insiders curate deals from trusted travel suppliers but do not guarantee pricing, availability, or booking conditions. Please refer to the original provider or booking platform for the most up-to-date information, terms, and conditions. Travel Deal Insiders and Sunshine Travelers are not responsible for third-party content, pricing errors, or changes in promotions.

Some links in this email may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book or purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. We only share deals we genuinely believe in and would recommend regardless of compensation. See our full disclaimer here.

 When most travelers think of Indonesia, Bali comes to mind — but just across the water lies Lombok, a lesser-known island filled with waterfalls, volcanoes, beaches, and culture. In this episode, we dive into why Lombok is Bali’s beautiful, uncrowded alternative, and how we’re planning to spend one incredible day there during our cruise.

Whether you’re planning a port day or dreaming of a slow-travel adventure, you’ll learn what makes Lombok so special and why it deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Where is Lombok? 

A quick geography lesson on this island paradise just east of Bali.

Natural Wonders 

Learn about Mount Rinjani, the spectacular twin-volcano lake, and the iconic Gili Islands.

Local Culture & Traditions 

Meet the Sasak people, explore handwoven textiles, and discover the spiritual blend of Muslim, Hindu, and animist beliefs.

 Best Time to Visit 

A breakdown of Lombok’s seasons — dry, shoulder, and wet — and what to expect each time of year.

 Our Port Day Itinerary 

Where to Stay if You Have More Time 

Eco-luxury: Jeeva Beloam Beach Camp 

5-star splurge: The Lombok Lodge 

Volcano views: Rinjani Lodge

 Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems 

Siniru & the waterfalls

Gili Air for slow travel, sunsets, and snorkeling

What to Pack for Lombok 

Lightweight, breathable clothing for tropical humidity

Modest outfits (covered shoulders/knees) for temple visits and rural areas

Quick-dry swimwear and microfiber towels 

Sun protection: reef-safe sunscreen, sunhat, polarized sunglasses

Comfortable walking shoes that can get wet + sandals/flip-flops

Scarf or shawl (multi-use & great for modesty)

Loose pants or long skirts instead of jeans

Daypack + dry bag for excursions

Reusable water bottles & electrolyte packets 

Basic medications: motion sickness, antihistamines, probiotics, stomach remedies

Hand sanitizer & wet wipes

More Resources & Links 

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple or Spotify and tell us your favorite part! It helps others discover the podcast!

Have a question about Lombok or want to share your own experience? Send us a DM on Instagram or email [email protected].

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

In this episode, we share the story behind our most unique cruise yet — a repositioning voyage from Hobart, Tasmania to Singapore. This itinerary spans two continents, multiple climates, and countless unforgettable moments, from seeing the Sydney Opera House and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, to planning for Disney in Hong Kong.

We dedicate this episode to Gene Bright, Scott’s stepfather, whose dream of seeing the world inspired our own passion for travel. His legacy is the heartbeat of this journey — one that begins in the cool, crisp air of Tasmania and ends under the tropical skies of Southeast Asia.

Why Hobart? 

How a twist in planning led us to start in Tasmania — and why we’re glad it did.

Planning a Repositioning Cruise 

Tips on dealing with multiple climates, long flights, and unusual cruise rhythms with more sea days than port stops.

Packing Strategy 

From merino wool to swimsuits: what we’re bringing for a month-long cruise across climates.

Internet & Working Remotely at Sea 

Scott shares his Starlink research and how we’re balancing work and adventure on the ship.

Port Highlights & Itinerary 

A quick rundown of our 7 ports of call

Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Resources & Links

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

 Planning an international trip? This episode of the Sunshine Travelers Podcast is your ultimate guide to stress-free international travel. From what to pack in your carry-on for long flights to avoiding common passport mistakes, Scott and Melissa share their best tips to help you travel smarter, lighter, and better.

 Whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or beyond, these international travel tips will help you save time, avoid stress, and feel more prepared when you land in a new country. Plus, we’re sharing exactly how we survive long-haul flights—and how you can, too.

Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

What to do before you leave (passports, visas, insurance, and safety prep)

Our long-haul flight essentials kit

How to beat jet lag and arrive refreshed

Packing tips for international travel

The best apps for international trips (currency, translation, transportation, and more)

How to stay connected abroad with eSIMs and local data

Tips for navigating airports, customs, and money exchange 

The mindset shift that makes international travel smoother

Stay connected when you travel for LESS than using your carrier's international plan, download an eSIM from Gigsky and save a ton of money- Use code SUNSHINE for 10% off 

More Resources & Links 

Explore more travel tips and itineraries: sunshinetravelers.com

Need help planning your next trip? Let’s Plan It Together

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

3 Limited-Time Travel Deals: Beaches Family Fun, Atlas Expeditions & Viking’s Christmas on the Rhine

1. Beaches Resorts – Caribbean Sale

Save up to 65% off room rates at Beaches Turks & Caicos or Beaches Negril, plus enjoy:

💵 Up to $400 Instant Credit

🛥️ $275 Tour Credit (on 5+ nights)

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly with Sesame Street, scuba, and certified autism programs

📍 Grace Bay, voted TripAdvisor’s #1 Beach in the World

👉 View Beaches Resorts Caribbean Sale

Book by September 30 and save up to 30% on select 2025–2027 expeditions. Plus, choose your perk:

✈️ Up to $2,000 Air Credit

🏨 Hotel or Land Package

🌐 Enhanced Unlimited WiFi

Featured Voyage Example: 

Tenerife Roundtrip (April 2026) – From $3,964 per guest, including 2 days in Morocco

👉 Explore Atlas Ocean Voyages Offers

Celebrate the holidays with this 8-day sailing from Amsterdam to Basel, visiting 4 countries with 8 guided tours and starting from $2,799 per person.

Exclusive New Guest Offer: 

✈️ FREE Airfare

💵 $25 Deposit

🍷 Choice of: Up to $1,000 Shipboard Credit per couple OR FREE Beverage Package with INCLUDED gratuities

🚨 Offer Codes: SBC9A or BEV9A | Expires September 30, 2025

👉 View Viking Christmas on the Rhine

👉 Need help booking? Let us take care of the details at Sunshine Travelers Experiences.

Want even more exclusive travel deals emailed straight to your inbox? Join Travel Deal Insiders at sunshinetravelers.com/deals 

and use code PODCAST to unlock your membership for just $50/year

✈️ Travel more. Spend less. Skip the Search. 

Disclaimer: All travel offers shared are subject to availability and may change without notice. Sunshine Travelers Podcast and Travel Deal Insiders curate deals from trusted travel suppliers but do not guarantee pricing, availability, or booking conditions. Please refer to the original provider or booking platform for the most up-to-date information, terms, and conditions. Travel Deal Insiders and Sunshine Travelers are not responsible for third-party content, pricing errors, or changes in promotions.

Some links in this email may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book or purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. We only share deals we genuinely believe in and would recommend regardless of compensation. See our full disclaimer here.