Our first stop in Asia was nothing short of unforgettable. In this episode, we take you with us to Lombok, Indonesia—just east of Bali—where we spent one of the most meaningful travel days of our lives. From learning traditional weaving techniques in a quiet village to riding motorbikes through a rainforest (crutches and all), and snorkeling with clownfish off the Gili Islands, this day was packed with adventure, connection, and soul. It was the kind of day that reminded us exactly why we travel—and why Indonesia is so much more than Bali. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️

Book the Private Tour we did in Lombok with Andy Lombok Driver 

Episode 140 - Lombok, Indonesia: What Bali Was Like Before the Crowds

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

What it felt like stepping onto Asian soil for the first time 

How we planned a private, authentic tour in Lombok (and why we skipped the cruise excursion)

Getting strapped into a loom and weaving with the women of a local village 

The wild motorbike ride that left us breathless and laughing in disbelief 

Scott’s heartwarming chat with locals using Google Translate 

Hiking (and not hiking) to the stunning Kelambu Waterfalls 

The moment we climbed onto the roof of a traditional jukung boat 

Snorkeling off the Gili Islands with thousands of fish—and unexpected clownfish 

The GoPro deal of a lifetime (complete with a private underwater photographer!) 

Why our lunch of nasi goreng and homemade sambal was worth the trip alone 

Dodging a missed cruise departure—and what to know if you’re booking excursions on your own

How Indonesia welcomed us in ways we never expected—and why we can’t wait to return 

Lombok, Indonesia 

Kelambu Waterfalls 

Gili Islands 

Traditional Weaving Village in Lombok 

Local beachside warung (restaurant)

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We literally hit record on this episode as soon as we got back to the hotel from visiting Hong Kong Disneyland.  We had an amazing day and don't want you to miss out on all the fun! In this episode you'll discover:

Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

You can get your Hong Kong Disneyland Park Tickets Here on Klook!

Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️

 Episode 145 - Hong Kong: Disney by Day, Skyline by Night, Two Perfect Days in Hong Kong

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Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay

Some adventures feel almost dreamlike—where even in the moment, you know you’ll remember every detail. That was Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef for us. After sailing up from Tasmania, we arrived in the tropical north of Australia, where palm trees frame the marina and the Coral Sea glows in every shade of blue.

Cairns practically invites adventure, and for us, the Great Barrier Reef was the moment we’d been waiting for. We booked a small-group snorkel trip heading out to Upolu Reef—and what we found there was unforgettable. Vibrant coral, giant clams the size of a loveseat, clownfish, sea turtles… and we were merely visitors in their world.

But the adventure didn’t end in Cairns. As the sun set and we sailed away, we began a new chapter—five full days at sea. Just us, the Crown Princess with 3000 of our newest friends, and the wide-open ocean… while a Category 4 cyclone churned only a couple hundred kilometers away near Darwin.

This episode is all about that contrast: the wonder of the reef and the vast quiet of days spent crossing open water. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Help Support the Podcast - you can Buy Us a Coffee

Book This Snorkel Tour with Reef Adventures

Don't miss more episodes from this trip: 

Episode 147 - What Surprised Us the Most About Sydney & Brisbane Australia - One Day Itineraries & Tips

Resources & Links 

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We spend one day in each port - Sydney & Brisbane Australia and could Sydney be the best port view in the world? Here's how we recommend that you spend one day in each of these port cities in Australia to get just a taste, especially if you want to see the native species.  Listen in for our experiences and tips and continue to follow along as we sail from Tasmania to Singapore with Pricess Cruises. 

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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.

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

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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). Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.

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.

And while cruising offers an incredible way to explore multiple destinations without packing and unpacking, many travelers also choose to extend their adventures on land—especially in places like Tasmania, where the freedom to explore remote beaches, rugged national parks, and hidden coastal viewpoints is easier with a vehicle. That’s why some visitors compare options such as road-trip travel with the top-rated campervan hire in Tasmania, traditional car rentals for shorter routes, or guided tour packages for those who prefer planned itineraries—all depending on comfort level, budget, and how deeply they want to immerse themselves in nature. Each approach creates a different rhythm of travel, and combining cruise days with land exploration can turn a great trip into an unforgettable journey that blends convenience, spontaneity, and breathtaking scenery.

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

Related Episodes You'll Love:

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

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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

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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.