Episodes

  • Episode 132 - First Days in Northern Ireland: Belfast, Cave Hill & Giant’s Causeway Adventure

    Episode 132 - First Days in Northern Ireland: Belfast, Cave Hill & Giant’s Causeway Adventure
    Sep 9 2025
    52 mins
  • Episode 131 - Frontier Freebies, Iceland Stopovers & Delta Skymiles Boost

    Episode 131 - Frontier Freebies, Iceland Stopovers & Delta Skymiles Boost
    Sep 4 2025
    12 mins
  • Episode 130 - Beyond the Balcony: Best Alaska Cruise Excursions in Ketchikan, Juneau, & Skagway

    Episode 130 - Beyond the Balcony: Best Alaska Cruise Excursions in Ketchikan, Juneau, & Skagway
    Sep 2 2025
    Alaska is one of those bucket-list destinations that travelers dream about, but often put off for “someday.” The truth? There’s no better time than now. Cruising through Alaska gives you front-row seats to glaciers, mountains, and wildlife right from your balcony — but the adventure doesn’t stop there. In this episode of the Sunshine Travelers Podcast, we’re taking you beyond the balcony to explore the unforgettable shore excursions in Alaska’s three most popular cruise ports: Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. From flightseeing over fjords to spotting bears at salmon streams, these are the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that turn a cruise into an adventure you’ll talk about for years. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: Why it’s worth getting off the ship and exploring Alaska beyond the cruise portHow to choose the right excursions (and plan for weather changes or cancellations)The most popular things to do in each portTips for balancing guided excursions with exploring on your own Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. 📌 Related Episodes You’ll Also Love: Episode 119 – What You Need to Know Before Planning an Alaska Cruise Episode 126 – Victoria, BC in 36 Hours: A Travel Guide Episode 128 – The 4 Biggest Questions People Ask Before Booking an Alaska Cruise Resources & Links Link to Alaska Shore Excursions Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders — the best travel deals sent straight to your inbox. 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. Follow Sunshine Travelers Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast Follow us on X @sunshinetrvlrs Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay
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    38 mins
  • Episode 129 - Best Cruise & Hotel Deals This Week – Hawaii, Atlas Ocean Voyages, and Marriott Homes & Villas

    Episode 129 - Best Cruise & Hotel Deals This Week – Hawaii, Atlas Ocean Voyages, and Marriott Homes & Villas
    Aug 28 2025

    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.
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    8 mins
  • Episode 128 - The 4 Biggest Questions People Ask Before Booking an Alaska Cruise (And Our Honest Answers)

    Episode 128 - The 4 Biggest Questions People Ask Before Booking an Alaska Cruise (And Our Honest Answers)
    Aug 26 2025
    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. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 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 Excursion Highlight: Taku Lodge via Floatplane from Juneau - Bookable via cruise line or Book direct here, whether you are on a cruise or not Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders — the best travel deals sent straight to your inbox. 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. Follow Sunshine Travelers Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast Follow us on X @sunshinetrvlrs Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay
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    40 mins
  • Episode 127 - Sandals Resorts Weather Guarantee, Celebrity River Cruise Launch, Alaska & Hawaiian Airlines Atmos Rewards

    Episode 127 - Sandals Resorts Weather Guarantee, Celebrity River Cruise Launch, Alaska & Hawaiian Airlines Atmos Rewards
    Aug 21 2025
    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: Free Weather Protection Plan if you travel between August and October Up to 65% off Up to $1500 Instant Credit Book online and get $100 off Stay 5+ nights and get a $250 Spa Credit Sandals Royal Curacao (Below the hurricane belt) 55% Off Rack Rates $1500 Instant Credit $250 Dining Out Credit Book online and get $100 credit • ⁃ 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.
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    10 mins
  • Episode 126 – Victoria, British Columbia Travel Guide: What to See, Eat & Do in Just 36 Hours

    Episode 126 – Victoria, British Columbia Travel Guide: What to See, Eat & Do in Just 36 Hours
    Aug 19 2025
    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 How to get to Victoria from Vancouver — flights, ferries, and floatplanes Where to stay in Victoria Do you need a car in Victoria? Our tips for driving, parking, and shuttles How many days to spend in Victoria The top things to do in Victoria Where to eat in Victoria Resources & Links Harbor View Hotels: Delta Hotels by Marriott Victoria Ocean Pointe ResortThe Fairmont Empress Hotel & Q BarInn at Laurel PointHotel Grand PacificCoast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APAVictoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites Other Points of Interest and Links Butchart Gardens Malahat SkywalkHarbour Air SeaplanesTip: we rented the car from Budget through Expedia and picked up at the Victoria airport and dropped the car off at the Budget office downtown within walking distance from HarbourAir More Resources & Links Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders — the best travel deals sent straight to your inbox. 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. Follow Sunshine Travelers Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast Follow us on X @sunshinetrvlrs Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by Dmitrii Kolesnikov from Pixabay
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    31 mins
  • Episode 125 - Under $800 to New Zealand + Huge Cruise Savings

    Episode 125 - Under $800 to New Zealand + Huge Cruise Savings
    Aug 14 2025
    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.
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    6 mins