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Inside Travel TalkFrom Rome to Cabo: Your Ultimate Travel GuideSend us a textReady to navigate the shifting landscape of travel? Southwest Airlines has made a game-changing announcement that will transform how we fly with them. After decades of their iconic open seating policy, they're finally introducing seat assignments! Starting July 29th, passengers can book flights departing January 27th or later with pre-selected seats, choosing from four options ranging from basic to extra legroom. This welcome change eliminates the notorious gate crowding while maintaining Southwest's customer-friendly approach.Planning a Hawaiian getaway? Take note that advanced reservations for the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor...2025-07-2627 minInside Travel TalkWanderlust Weekly: From Penguin Parades to Irish EscapesSend us a textHidden gems and extraordinary travel experiences await the curious explorer! From Australia's charming penguin parade to luxury villas across the globe, this week's journey through travel possibilities reveals destinations you likely never knew existed.Mark Faldmo shares his discoveries from the Global Travel Marketplace in Fort Lauderdale, where he connected with fascinating suppliers offering unique adventures. Imagine watching hundreds of bowling pin-sized penguins (just 8-12 inches tall) make their nightly journey from sea to shore on Phillips Island, Australia. Or consider exploring southern New Zealand during winter to witness the spectacular...2025-07-1927 minInside Travel TalkHawaiian Dreams and European Rivers: Exclusive Travel Deals RevealedSend us a textKick off your shoes and relax! The TSA has finally announced what weary travelers have been hoping for since 2001—you can now keep your shoes on during airport security at most major airports starting this Sunday. This travel breakthrough headlines our latest episode, where we celebrate the end of awkward barefoot moments in security lines nationwide.As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, we unveil how tour operators and cruise lines are creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences for this historic milestone. Discover Holland America's special sailing from Boston on July 4th, where yo...2025-07-1227 minInside Travel TalkThe Inside Scoop: Globus Tours and Norwegian Cruise Line's Best OffersSend us a textDive into a treasure trove of exceptional travel deals with Mark and Patrick as they unveil extraordinary savings opportunities perfect for your next adventure. The spotlight shines on Globus Tours' flash sale featuring their "Escape Tours" – off-season European journeys offering the dual benefits of 40-50% savings and blissfully uncrowded attractions. Picture yourself exploring Budapest, Vienna, and Prague for just $1,099 per person, or wandering through Scotland's magical landscapes for under $1,000 on a 7-day tour.A fascinating travel insight emerges when discussing winter travel to the British Isles. While many assume harsh conditions, th...2025-07-0526 minInside Travel TalkBeyond Borders: Cruises, Trains, and Island EscapesSend us a textThe world of travel is constantly evolving, and this episode takes you behind the scenes of some extraordinary opportunities you won't want to miss. We kick things off with a jaw-dropping MSC Cruises promotion offering 40% off ALL cruises—not just select sailings—plus kids sail free through their limited-time 4th of July sale. For families looking to escape winter, a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston starts at just $469 per person, with a family of four sailing for a total of $1,389 including taxes and fees.For those seeking unique land experiences, we e...2025-06-2852 minInside Travel TalkWanderlust Whispers: River Cruise Comparisons & Hidden GemsSend us a textReady to snag a $399 roundtrip flight to Hawaii this fall? That's not a typo – it's just one of the extraordinary travel deals we're unveiling in this episode. We're taking you on a journey through affordable paradise destinations while revealing how to maximize your travel budget without sacrificing experiences.The tropical adventures start with our exploration of Tahiti and its islands. While many travelers dream of Bora Bora's overwater bungalows, we reveal why Moorea might be the smarter choice – offering similar beauty at more accessible prices just a 30-minute ferry ride from Pape...2025-06-2152 minInside Travel TalkCruising Beyond: Solar Eclipses at Sea and Alaskan AdventuresSend us a text2025-06-1452 minInside Travel TalkFrom Robot Bartenders to Panama: The Unexpected Joys of TravelSend us a textCurious about the future of travel? From robot bartenders mixing perfect cocktails on cruise ships to pianists performing in elevators, the travel landscape is evolving in fascinating ways. Royal Caribbean's addition of Ovation of the Seas to its West Coast fleet marks an exciting opportunity for travelers to experience these innovations on shorter three to four-day cruises – perfect for those wondering if cruising fits their vacation style.For adventure seekers longing to explore Europe at a more intimate pace, guided biking tours offer an immersive alternative to traditional sightseeing. Whether you're cy...2025-06-0753 minInside Travel TalkFrom Normandy to Hawaii: Must-Visit Destinations RevealedSend us a textRoyal Caribbean's strategic expansion on the West Coast marks a significant shift in cruise accessibility for Western travelers. With Ovation of the Seas joining the Los Angeles fleet, passengers now have unprecedented options for Mexican Riviera explorations without trekking to Florida ports. Mark broadcasts directly from LA, preparing to board this celebrated vessel and sharing firsthand insights on what travelers can expect.Normandy's D-Day landing beaches emerge as our destination highlight, offering a profound journey through pivotal moments in world history. Whether exploring via river cruise from Paris, joining specialized tours...2025-05-3152 minInside Travel TalkBeyond the Horizon: Fiji, Cancun, and River Cruise DealsSend us a textMark has just returned from Fiji with fascinating stories of crossing the International Date Line. In what he calls "the case of the missing Saturday," he describes flying from the US on Friday night, completely skipping Saturday, and arriving Sunday morning. Even more remarkable was his return journey when he departed Fiji at 9:40 pm Saturday and arrived home at 8:40 pm the same day – literally landing an hour before taking off!For families considering Fiji, Mark highlights the exceptional value and unique experiences found at smaller island resorts. Unlike typical kids' clubs th...2025-05-2453 minInside Travel TalkParadise Found: Exploring Fiji's Hidden Treasures & Panama Canal CruisesSend us a textDreaming of a South Pacific paradise that won't break the bank? This week, we shatter the myth that Fiji is exclusively a honeymoon destination as Mark broadcasts live from the Fiji Tourism Exchange, offering insider knowledge from his fifth visit to these stunning islands.Discover why Fiji deserves consideration for your next family vacation with three standout family-friendly resorts: the renowned Shangri-La, the beachfront Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, and the adventure-packed Castaway Island. Each offers comprehensive children's programs, allowing parents to enjoy some alone time while kids create their own tropical...2025-05-1752 minInside Travel TalkNavigating Europe and Caribbean Adventures: Insider Tips for Travel PlanningSend us a textTraveling with a family of five presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to cruise accommodations. Most standard cabins are designed for a maximum of four guests, forcing larger families to book separate rooms—an expensive and sometimes impractical solution. Today, we unveil the cruise lines that offer cabins specifically designed for families of five, including Royal Caribbean's family ocean view cabins, Norwegian's accommodations on their Breakaway class ships, and specialized options from Disney, Carnival, and even Holland America's Koningsdam.For travelers drawn to European adventures, we explore the innovative "hub an...2025-05-1053 minInside Travel TalkYour Ultimate Travel Guide: Exploring Greenland, Costa Rica, and MSC World AmericaSend us a textReady for a journey that spans from the icy landscapes of Greenland to the tropical paradise of Costa Rica and the magnificent new MSC World America cruise ship? Join us as we dive into the hottest travel destinations and essential travel information you need right now.The long-awaited enforcement of Real ID requirements begins May 7th—is your license compliant with that gold star? We break down exactly what you'll need at airport security and what alternatives will work if your ID isn't ready. Plus, we explore why Greenland has suddenly be...2025-05-0353 minInside Travel TalkBeyond the Tourist Path: Authentic Experiences in River Cruising and Island ExplorationSend us a text2025-04-2651 minInside Travel TalkFrom Miami to Tokyo: Japan Travel Ideas and Australia/New Zealand CruisesSend us a textThe lure of cherry blossoms in full bloom across Japan's ancient temples. The majesty of New Zealand's Milford Sound as your ship glides through nature's cathedral. The small but significant victory of securing a proper window seat on your next flight. These travel experiences—both grand and granular—shape our journeys and memories.Fresh from exploring MSC's stunning new World America during its inaugural sailing, Patrick broadcasts live from Miami Beach while Mark shares invaluable insights on experiencing Japan, where language barriers make guided tours or cruises particularly valuable for first-time visi...2025-04-1952 minInside Travel TalkCruising Beyond Boundaries: Exploring Alaska's Wilderness with UnCruise AdventuresSend us a textDiscover the extraordinary difference between traditional Alaska cruising and the immersive wilderness experience offered by UnCruise Adventures. In our conversation with Dan Blanchard, CEO of UnCruise, we explore how their small ships allow guests to wake up alongside glaciers, spending nearly 48 hours in Glacier Bay compared to the brief 3-6 hour visits typical of larger cruise lines. Blanchard, whose passion for authentic experiences stems from sailing the Pacific with his family, created UnCruise to share his favorite wild places with travelers seeking deeper connection. "We're the only company that puts people a...2025-04-1253 minInside Travel TalkExploring America by Rail: Grand Canyon Railway and Rocky MountaineerSend us a textStep aboard as we journey through America's most magnificent landscapes without ever getting behind the wheel! This episode is a treasure trove for train enthusiasts and cruise lovers alike as we explore iconic rail journeys and pristine Alaskan waterways.Discover the historic charm of the Grand Canyon Railway, operating since 1901, where your journey becomes part of the adventure with roaming musicians and perhaps even a staged train robbery! We uncover how this 64-mile route transformed from hauling copper ore to delivering wide-eyed travelers to one of nature's most spectacular wonders. With...2025-04-0552 minInside Travel TalkBeyond the Horizon: From Set-Jetting in Britain to Mexican Family EscapesSend us a textVacation Patrick is officially in the building! This week's packed episode captures the excitement of travel planning as Patrick prepares for an unprecedented adventure – four consecutive cruises, including two inaugural sailings. While Patrick gets ready for his Caribbean cruise marathon, we bring you the biggest travel news impacting your future vacations.Sandals and Beaches Resorts are making waves with a massive announcement – a nearly $1 billion investment to expand their family-friendly Beaches brand throughout the Caribbean. This strategic expansion addresses a growing need in the travel industry for accommodations specifically designed for fami...2025-03-2952 minInside Travel TalkBags, Boats, and Beach Bargains: Saving on Hawaii, Europe and CruisesSend us a textSouthwest Airlines' bold move to eliminate free checked bags has created immediate ripples through the travel industry, with the airline already seeing significant booking declines. While Southwest projects $1.5 billion in annual bag fee revenue, they're forecasting $1.8 billion in lost business initially—a fascinating gamble on customer behavior that we unpack in detail. This decision reveals a profound shift in how airlines view passenger priorities, with Southwest's data suggesting travelers consistently choose the lowest displayed fare regardless of baggage policies.For cruise enthusiasts, Norwegian Cruise Line just took delivery of their innovative ne...2025-03-2253 minInside Travel TalkWild Wonders: Costa Rica & French PolynesiaSend us a textTravelers seeking extraordinary experiences should consider French Polynesia's cruise offerings. Despite setting records with 52,000 cruise passengers in 2024, these numbers represent what busy Caribbean ports handle in a single week. This relative solitude creates a more authentic, uncrowded experience whether you choose Windstar's tall ships, the luxury Paul Gauguin line, or the unique half-cargo, half-cruise vessel Aranui. For maximum value, consider repositioning cruises connecting Hawaii, French Polynesia, and Australia/New Zealand, with 14-day voyages starting at just $1,640 per person.Wildlife enthusiasts will find paradise in Costa Rica's biodiversity hotspots, particularly the Arenal...2025-03-1553 minInside Travel TalkBucket List Destinations: From Baltic Waters to Egyptian PyramidsSend us a textThe perfect Eastern European vacation doesn't require the typical London-Paris route that everyone takes. Instead, discover the magic of Budapest, Vienna, and Prague – a cultural triangle that delivers incredible value with fall flights starting at just $749. Budapest captivates with its dramatic Danube views, thermal baths, and vibrant Market Hall, while Vienna dazzles with imperial Schönbrunn Palace and musical heritage. Complete your journey in Prague, where castle views, the Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square transport you to a fairy-tale setting with delicious local pastries and Prague ham.Our hot travel dea...2025-03-0851 minInside Travel TalkTravel Beyond the Ordinary: Discover Lesser-Known DestinationsSend us a textIf you're ready to dive into the world of travel like never before, this episode is a must-listen! Join Patrick and Mark on the Inside Travel Talk podcast as they unveil hidden travel gems, including the stunning destination of Fiji, which has captured the hearts of over a million visitors this past year alone. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first getaway, we share fresh destinations that will pique your interest and broaden your travel horizons. From the beautiful beaches of Fiji to the less-visited wonders of Europe, we d...2025-03-0151 minInside Travel TalkLuxe Journeys: Virgin Voyages, Puerto Vallarta Deals & Mediterranean WondersSend us a textUnlock the secrets of luxurious travel experiences as Patrick Wiscombe and Mark Faldmo, guide you through the latest and greatest in the world of travel. Ever wondered how a cruise vacation can transform your perspective? Discover the allure of Virgin Voyages and Mediterranean Cruises, and understand why Puerto Vallarta is stealing the spotlight this wave season. We unpack the nuances of Florida's booming tourism industry and also address the challenges facing Santorini due to recent earthquakes and the implications for travelers. Get ready for irresistible travel deals and news! From Hawaii's po...2025-02-2252 minInside Travel TalkCaptivating Cruises: Canada's Fall Foliage, Mexico's Ancient Marvels & Mekong River CruiseSend us a textUnlock the secrets to unforgettable vacations as we explore the most exciting trends in travel and cruising today. Discover the allure of Canada and New England cruises, especially during the fall when nature adorns itself in a stunning display of vibrant foliage. You’ll learn the best times to embark on these journeys, explore diverse cruise routes, and uncover strategies for budget-friendly adventures. We also shed light on Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' bold move with their new mega ships and Royal Caribbean's innovative strategies to slash food waste in half, reflecting a broader co...2025-02-1552 minInside Travel TalkAdventure Awaits: Sydney Secrets, US Virgin Islands Splendor & Route 66 Road TripsSend us a text2025-02-0851 min