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. 

Click here to see all the deals in one place! 

1. Atlas Ocean Explorers Choice Expeditions

Up to $500 OBC + 30% Bonus Savings 

All 2026 destinations: Antarctica, Mediterranean, Caribbean & more

Pick a complimentary amenity: $2,000 Air Credit, Hotel/Land Package, or Unlimited Wi-Fi

Ends Sept 9 

👉 Book Here

2. Holland America Labor Day Deal – Sail to Hawaii - Rumor has it Hawaii may limit cruise ships soon…

Get 45% off select sailings, $99 deposits, and up to $400 OBC.

Valid through Sept 8.

👉 See Hawaii Deals

3. Vacation Rentals – Marriott Homes & Villas - Earn 2X Bonvoy points (more if you have elite status) on 3+ night stays (now–Dec 31, 2025). Book by Sept 25. Perfect for holidays with family or friends.

👉 Homes & Villas Offer 

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

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.

Thinking about booking an Alaska cruise but unsure which ship to choose, whether Glacier Bay is worth it, or how to pick the right excursions? In this episode, we break down everything you really need to know before you go.

We answer the most searched questions about Alaska cruises, from choosing between megaships and smaller vessels to understanding which cruise lines actually have permits to enter Glacier Bay National Park. Plus, we share highlights from our own Holland America voyage aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam—including a floatplane excursion to Taku Lodge, scenic cruising, and tips for making the most of your time at sea.

Ship Size Matters: Pros and cons of megaships vs. mid-size and expedition vessels

Who Gets Into Glacier Bay: The 6 cruise lines with special access (and why it matters)

Scenic Cruising Tips: What to expect in Glacier Bay & College Fjord

Cruise Line Insights: Why we chose Holland America (Nieuw Amsterdam)

Entertainment & Staff Highlights: From magicians to activity directors

Dining Tips: Set dining vs. flexible—how to request your preferred setup

Port Guide: What to do in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway

Excursion Spotlight: Our top picks

Wildlife Watch: What to expect (and why sunshine can actually reduce sightings)

Junior Ranger Program: Yes, even on a cruise!

Our Tip: Is a balcony stateroom is worth it in Alaska?

Resources & Links 

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

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. 

Click here to see all the deals in one place! 

Deal 1: 

Let’s start this week with a deal from Sandals.  You may have some reservations about going during this time of year, but Sandals has recently added:

Sandals Royal Curacao (Below the hurricane belt)

 •  ⁃ Starting at $342 PP/PN

Sandals and Sandals Royal Curacao with Hurricane Protection

Deal 2:

✨ Celebrity Cruises Spotlight 

Celebrity has redefined ocean cruising — now they’re bringing that same elevated experience to Europe’s iconic rivers in 2027. From locally inspired cuisine to breathtaking views from your room, every moment is designed to immerse you in the journey.

👉 Priority Booking Opens September 3, 2025 

Secure your spot with a $500 refundable deposit per cabin for exclusive early access before itineraries go public.

🔗 Secure Priority Booking Access Here

🦎  Celebrity also has a couple of deals if you want to check the Galapagos off your bucket list

 For a limited time, when you book a vacation to the incredible Galapagos Islands, you’ll enjoy 20% off your cruise fare for 2025 and 2026.

What’s Included in Your Galapagos Package: 

 • Flights between Quito and the Galapagos (on 10+ night packages)

 • Twice-daily guided excursions with certified Naturalists

 • All gratuities, park fees, and daily briefings

 • Unlimited Wi-Fi, drinks, and locally inspired meals onboard

And for 2027 Galapagos cruises, if you book by Sept 22, 2025

 • 50% off the 2nd guest 

 • Round-trip airfare between the US and Canada gateway cities is included (up to $750 pp)

 •  and Captain’s Club Elite & above Extra $1,500 savings

plus all the other inclusions that are included on every Galapagos package

📅 Valid on 7, 10, 11 & 16-night Galapagos packages (Jan 3 – Dec 26, 2027).

🔗Click here to learn more

Deal 3:

Two loyalty giants are merging: Alaska Mileage Plan + HawaiianMiles = Atmos Rewards. 

Perks rolling out:

 • More ways to earn (distance, dollars, or segments – live 2026)

 • Free Starlink Wi-Fi on all flights (2026)

 • Complimentary global upgrades for top elites

 • New Atmos Rewards Visa Infinite® – 100K point welcome bonus, 8 lounge passes, $50 automatic delay credits

Learn more:

🔗 Atmos Rewards (Alaska Airlines)

🔗 Atmos Rewards (Hawaiian Airlines)

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

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.

Whether you’re planning a cruise stop, a weekend getaway, or a longer Vancouver Island itinerary, this guide answers the top questions travelers ask before visiting Victoria.

Victoria, British Columbia, may be Canada’s most charming capital — a place where British heritage meets Pacific Northwest beauty. In this episode of the Sunshine Travelers Podcast, we share how we explored Victoria in just a day and a half, from Butchart Gardens and the Malahat Skywalk to floatplanes, seafood, and strolling the vibrant Inner Harbour. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode 

Resources & Links  

Harbor View Hotels:

Other Points of Interest and Links

More Resources & Links

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

Travel Deals Thursday: Under $800 to New Zealand + Huge Cruise Savings

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 

 Deal #1 – U.S. to New Zealand Flights Under $800 

If New Zealand is on your bucket list, now’s the time to lock it in. Right now, you can fly from select U.S. destinations to New Zealand for under $800 round-trip. That’s a rare find for such a long-haul destination.

To make the most of it, in the show notes I’ve included links to where to stay and what to do while you’re there — so you can book your flights, hotels, and activities all in one go. These prices won’t last long, so check the deal now and start planning your Kiwi adventure.

Find Your Flight Deals Here 

Where to Stay in New Zealand

What to Do in New Zealand 

Deal #2 – Princess Alaska 2027 Early Booking Bonus

Princess Cruises is a top cruise line for Alaska, and their 2027 season is now open for booking. For a limited time, you can get up to 40% off fares, and a free room upgrade if you book by August 18th, 2025. The deposit is just $99, and from looking at the early booking prices, it's clear that booking early pays off. You don't have to make a big investment right now, just $99

This is an early booking bonus, which means the best cabins and itineraries are available now. If Alaska has been on your radar, this is a great way to secure your trip years in advance and lock in big savings.”

Learn More about the Princess Alaska 2027 Deal Here

Deal #3 – Viking Cruises Ocean Voyages 

Viking’s anniversary sale + a double past guest discount is up to 30% off fares right now, plus a double past guest discount of up to $800 per couple. These itineraries cover destinations like the Mediterranean, Central America, and Asia, and include up to FREE international airfare with only a $25 deposit.

Onboard, you can expect regional cuisine, award-winning service, and thoughtfully designed shore excursions. Viking doesn’t often discount at this level, so if you’ve been eyeing one of their luxury voyages, it’s a good time to reserve your stateroom. Another good thing about Viking is that shore excursions are included in the price of your fare.,

Learn More About This Viking Deal Here

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

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 if your morning run could take you past the Colosseum at sunrise… or deep into the Albanian Alps on trails most tourists never see? In this episode of the Sunshine Travelers Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Cash and Kaitlyn Conner, who have turned their love for exploring new destinations into “runcations” that combine fitness, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a dedicated runner or simply looking for a fresh way to experience the world, this conversation will inspire you to lace up your shoes and explore destinations one stride at a time. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 

How running can transform the way you experience a destination and help you skip the tourist crowds

Kyle & Kaitlyn’s favorite road and trail running spots—from Old Town Quebec to Albania’s Theth National Park

Planning trips around world-class trails, national parks, and destination races

Tools & apps for mapping scenic routes (Strava heatmaps, AllTrails, Google Maps)

Packing smart for both road and trail running while keeping luggage light

Safety tips for running abroad and connecting with locals along the way

How to combine running with content creation while traveling

Strategies for balancing active travel days with downtime

📍 Resources & Links: 

Follow Kyle on Instagram @thetravelrunnerofficial and Kaitlyn here

Visit their blog: TheTravelRunner.com

Explore trail-friendly snacks & recipes at: TrailEats.com

More Travel Resources & Links:

Follow Sunshine Travelers

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

SkyMiles Status, Luxury Cruises & Tonga Island Savings – Hot Travel Deals

Ready to upgrade your travels? In this episode, we’re sharing this week’s hottest travel deals, including how to get free Delta SkyMiles Medallion Status, luxury 7-night Celebrity Cruises in AquaClass, a once-in-a-lifetime private island escape in Tonga with whale swims included, and a Viking Ocean Cruise to chase the Northern Lights—with free airfare.

Whether you’re booking with points or planning a bucket list getaway, these curated travel deals will help you travel better, for less.

See ALL the Travel Deals Here!

Here's the Deals:

1. Right now, Delta is having a SkyMiles Medallion Status Match Challenge, and this rarely happens! Delta is matching Southwest elite flyers to Gold or Platinum Medallion Status FREE and includes free checked bags, same-day confirmed changes, and higher mile earning

Enroll in Delta Status Match Here 

2. 7-Night Celebrity Cruises – AquaClass (and these are their All-Included rates that include a Classic Drinks Package and unlimited. Basic Wi-Fi package, and the rates are even less if you don’t want either of these included.  Valid for bookings made until August 11th  

September 7, 2025 

 • Itinerary: Grand Cayman, Mexico, Jamaica & Perfect Day at CocoCay

 • Departure: Miami, Florida

 • AquaClass All-Included Rate: $1,771 

 September 14, 2025 

 • Itinerary: San Juan, St. Maarten & Perfect Day at CocoCay

 • Departure: Miami, Florida

 • AquaClass All-Included Rate: $1,720 

September 21, 2025 

 • Itinerary: Grand Cayman, Mexico, Jamaica & Perfect Day at CocoCay

 • Departure: Miami, Florida

 • AquaClass All-Included Rate: $1,721 

 September 28, 2025 

 • Itinerary: St. Maarten, St. Thomas & Bahamas

 • Departure: Miami, Florida

 • AquaClass All-Included Rate: $1,694 

Here's the link

3. This week’s All-Inclusive Resort Spotlight is very unique:

The Bucket List Family has just launched the Bucket List Collection, featuring the private island of Mounu Island, Tonga. You can currently save $750/Night with this offer. Includes ALL meals, whale swims, and transfers from VAV airport

 Valid: Aug 11–Oct 15, 2025,

 Book the Mounu Promo 

4. Viking Ocean Cruises has an In Search of the Northern Lights 13-day cruise from Bergen to London (Jan–March 2026), FREE Airfare Included, Gratuities, Prime Aurora Viewing Season Sailings Jan 17 – Mar 18, 2026.

Here's the link to learn more. 

_________________________________________________________________

🎉 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 $5/month

✈️ Travel more. Spend less. Skip the Search.

_________________________________________________________________

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

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.

Planning a Trip to St Lucia: Travel Tips, Resorts & What Most Guides Don’t Tell You

Thinking about planning a trip to Saint Lucia? Whether you’re dreaming of luxury resorts like Jade Mountain or craving off-the-beaten-path rainforest adventures, this Caribbean island offers a blend of relaxation and thrill like no other. In this episode, we chat with seasoned traveler Stephanie Yeargan, who recently explored Saint Lucia’s iconic Pitons, beaches, and culture. She shares what you need to know before you go—from the best time to visit and where to stay, to packing tips and local foods you can’t miss.

If you’re wondering whether St Lucia is worth the splurge—or how it stacks up against other Caribbean islands—this episode will help you plan smarter, travel better, and maybe even book that trip. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

What makes St Lucia unique (and what surprised our guest)

How to choose between Rodney Bay vs. Soufrière 

Are luxury resorts like Jade Mountain or Ladera worth the price?

Best activities and excursions to experience on the island

Local food you absolutely must try (plus cultural moments beyond the resorts)

When to visit Saint Lucia and what to pack

What Stephanie wishes she knew before her trip

Advice for semi-luxury travelers looking for both rest and adventure

Stephanie Yeargan is a returning guest on the Sunshine Travelers Podcast. An avid explorer and detail-oriented trip planner, she brings a wealth of firsthand travel knowledge, from Southeast Asia to the Caribbean. This time, she takes us behind the scenes of her recent St. Lucia adventure, giving us the real scoop on what makes this island worth visiting.

Resources & Links

Get Our Ultimate Packing Guide for Traveling Smart and Packing Light + Access to Exclusive Weekly Content here.

Don’t waste your precious vacation time with Jet Lag, get Flykitt and watch Jet Lag disappear!

Protect your privacy, boost your security, and keep your browsing data safe with Express VPN. Plus, get 3 months free with a yearly plan.

Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

 Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG

 Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast

Music: This Acoustic Happy

Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

Top Travel Deals to Alaska, the Caribbean & Last-Minute Summer Getaways - This Week’s Best Cruise Offers, Resort Sales & Vacation Deals

If you’re anything like us and you love a great travel deal, welcome to Travel Deals Thursday—your weekly roundup of the best vacation deals, cruise sales, flight discounts, resort promotions, all-inclusive vacation packages, and so much more. Each week, we dig through hundreds of travel newsletters, alerts, and booking sites to find real, bookable deals you can actually use. From Alaska cruise specials and Mediterranean getaways to cheap all-inclusive resorts and bundle savings on flight + hotel packages, we spotlight travel offers that help you save big, without sacrificing experience.

🎉 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 $5/month

✈️ Travel more. Spend less. Skip the Search.

Here's the Deal Links:

1 Holland America –2027 Alaska Early Booking Bonus - when 2027 cruises open for booking on August 5th

 • Up to $300 Shore Excursion Credit

• Up to 3 Nights’ Specialty Dining

• Free Upgrade Premium Wi-Fi + Free Upgrade Elite Beverage Package 

• Free Prepaid Crew Appreciation

Available Starting August 5th

👉 Explore Alaska Cruises

2. VRBO - last-minute summer sale   

• Save on beachfront houses, cabins, or pet-friendly rentals worldwide

• Perfect for sudden getaways or extended stays

👉 Book Here

3. Royal Caribbean LAST MINUTE Cruise Deals here!  Check out these Hot Sailings:

Quantum of the Seas® – 3-Night Ensenada from LA → from $369

Icon of the Seas® – 7-Night Western Caribbean from Miami → from $1,449

Freedom of the Seas® – 4-Night Eastern Caribbean from Miami → from $329

Rhapsody of the Seas® – 7-Night Caribbean from Tampa → from $499

 👉 Book Royal Caribbean Deals

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

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.

Unexpected fall trips that go beyond leaf-peeping—Portugal, Oaxaca, the Azores, and more.

Think fall travel is all cabins and foliage? Think again. In this episode, we’re going beyond the leaves to spotlight fall trips you’ve probably never considered—but will want to take. From soaking in hot springs in the Azores and sipping wine in Portugal’s Douro Valley to celebrating Día de los Muertos in Oaxaca or hiking Utah’s national parks under more incredible skies, these unique autumn escapes offer fewer crowds, better weather, and unforgettable experiences.

We’ll explore:

Portugal’s Douro Valley & Alentejo — vineyard harvests, walking tours, and riverside charm

Oaxaca, Mexico — cultural immersion during Day of the Dead

France’s Dordogne & Luberon — medieval villages, truffle markets, and slow travel

The Azores — crater lakes, hot springs, and peace without the price tag

Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks — red rock adventures with ideal fall temps

Some links are affiliate links.  See our disclosure.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Macs Adventure - Self-Guided Walking and Biking Tours in Portugal

Viking Duoro Valley River Cruises

More Links You'll Love:

Listen to our Portugal Episode Here

Travel More, Spend Less, Skip the Search, Join Travel Deal Insiders and get the latest and hottest travel deals delivered straight to your inbox -- for the price of a cup of Joe, you could save hundreds, if not thousands, on your next trip.

You're already planning everyone's vacations. Might as well get paid for it.

Get Our Ultimate Packing Guide for Traveling Smart and Packing Light + Access to Exclusive Weekly Content here.

Do More with Viator. Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.

Stay connected when you travel for WAY 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

Never Overpay for a Flight Again, Get Daily Drop Pro

Don’t waste your precious vacation time with Jet Lag, Get Flykitt and watch Jet Lag disappear!

Protect your privacy, increase your security, keep your browsing data secure,  and don’t get locked out of websites with Express VPN -  get 3 months free with a yearly plan

Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG

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Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay