Sunshine Travelers Podcast

Have you ever wondered what happens when you stop simply sightseeing and start participating in a destination?  There’s a point on many trips where you realize what you remember aren’t the famous landmarks, museums, and attractions. For us, this trip through Spain and Italy started to change when we stopped simply looking at places and started participating in them. Some of our favorite moments happened sitting around tables, helping prepare food, hearing family stories, and learning how people actually live in the places we were visiting. In this episode, we wanted to talk about three experiences that completely changed how we connected with this trip and encourage you to seek out similar experiences on your next trip. All three experiences had something in common. They helped us appreciate these destinations in a way that went far beyond sightseeing. In this episode you'll discover: Why local food experiences create stronger travel memories  A private cooking class in the hills outside Florence  Traditional Italian food culture and family life  Cheese making at Masseria Fragnite near Ostuni  Learning to make mozzarella and burrata by hand  Why Puglia feels different from other parts of Italy  The value of slowing down while traveling  How meaningful travel often happens outside the main tourist areas  The role food, wine, and conversation play in Italian culture  Why immersive travel experiences help destinations feel more personal  Resources and Links from this Epsiode (Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure) If you'd like to connect with Marina and Nacho to book this experience, you can reach out to her on Instagram here. Or to book with them via EatWith, Click here.  Or book one of their on-site properties, here and here.  You'll also be able to book cooking classes and dining experiences with them once you book.  To see more EATWITH Experiences, click here.  For the Cesarine experience we booked with Cristina, Cooking class in a lemon grove in the hills of Florence and other Cesarine experiences in Italy, click here. For the Cheese Tour and tastings at Masseria Fragnite click here - be sure to choose the private experience to be able to make the cheese.     More Resources & Links:  Get help planning your next trip.  Learn more at sunshinetravelersexperiences.com or sunxtravel.com Want to learn more about making money planning and booking travel for yourself and others.  Learn more at https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/become-an-advisor And if you’re a content creator like us, why not turn your passion for travel and the resources you’re already sharing into even more of an income? You can learn more at https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/contentcreators  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources  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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>   Italy travel  Spain travel  Food tourism  Cooking classes in Italy  Agriturismo and Masseria experiences  Slow travel  Authentic local experiences  Cultural travel experiences  Tuscany travel tips  Puglia travel inspiration         

Bologna wasn’t on our itinerary. It was supposed to be a simple stop between Morocco and Tuscany. A place to rest, reset, and move on. Instead, it became one of the most unexpectedly enjoyable cities of our entire trip. In this episode, we share what surprised us about Bologna, what we almost skipped (but shouldn’t have), and why this underrated Italian city deserves a spot on your itinerary. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. In this Episode you'll discover: • What Bologna actually feels like compared to Florence and Rome • The best views in the city and why it's not where you think • A hidden canal most travelers miss • One of the most unique rooms we've ever seen in Europe • The walk and workout to San Luca • Where we ate and how we kept it simple • Practical tips for getting around and what to expect If you're planning a trip to Italy and looking for something that feels more local, less crowded, and still delivers incredible food and experiences, this episode is for you. Full blog with all locations: https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog Ready to plan your own trip? Head over to sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/plan-your-trip or reach out directly info@sunshinetravelers.com we would love to help you build your next trip. You can also Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️ More Travel Resources & Links:  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources  Want to learn more about making money planning and booking travel for yourself and others.  Learn more at https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/become-an-advisor If you’re a content creator like us, why not turn your passion for travel and the resources you’re already sharing into even more of an income? You can learn more at https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/contentcreators 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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>  

Morocco is one of those destinations that sits on a lot of bucket lists.  It had been on ours for a really long time. But for most people, it also comes with a lot of questions. How many days do you really need? Is it easy to get around? Should you try to plan it yourself… or work with someone local? And maybe the biggest one, what is Morocco actually like once you get there? What we’ve learned on this trip is that Morocco isn’t just about the places you visit. It’s about how you experience them. This episode is a little different. We’re recording this from Morocco, sitting outside at our riad by the pool after several days traveling through the desert, the mountains, and local villages and we’re going to introduce you to someone who has completely shaped this experience for us. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. You can connect with Mustapha on Instagram @moroccoadventurescom through his website at www.moroccoadventures.com and on WhatApp at +212670761106 or you can contact us at melissa@sunshinetravelers.com and we will connect you with Mustapha!  More Resources & Links:  Get our Curated List of Travel Deals  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources  Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️  Resources & Links  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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>

In this episode, we’re talking about one of the fastest-growing cruise lines in the industry and one that’s doing things very differently, Virgin Voyages. If you’ve cruised before, or you’re considering your next cruise, this is a brand that’s probably come up, and it’s not just because it’s new. It’s because Virgin has taken a very different approach to what a cruise experience should feel like, especially for adults. So in this episode, we’re sitting down with Mark Harvey from Virgin Voyages to break down what actually makes them different… and more importantly, who it’s a good fit for and who it’s not because this isn’t a cruise line that’s trying to be everything to everyone. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Learn More about Virgin Voyages Here.    Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️   https://coff.ee/sunshinetravelerspodcast         More Resources & Links:  Get our Curated List of Travel Deals  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources                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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>

Episode 165 Atlas Ocean Voyages Review: Is the World Voyager Worth It for Antarctica?  We just returned from one of the most bucket-list trips on the planet, an Antarctica expedition cruise aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages World Voyager, and we're breaking down everything: the ship, the staterooms, the food, the service, the expedition experience, and whether the $10,000–$15,000 price tag is actually worth it. This wasn't just a cruise review. This was one of our hosted group trips through Sunshine Travelers Experiences, so we lived this voyage alongside a group that had been planning it for years. We were intentional about every choice, ship size, itinerary, and overall value, and Atlas Ocean Voyages delivered across all three. If you're researching Antarctica expedition cruises, trying to decide between small ships vs. large ships, or wondering whether Atlas Ocean Voyages is the right fit for you, this episode is the deep dive you've been looking for. What We Cover in This Episode Why Ship Size Is Everything for AntarcticaWith Antarctica's strict rule that only 100 passengers can be on land at any one time, choosing a ship under 200 passengers changes the entire experience. On the World Voyager (153 passengers on our voyage), everyone gets to land on each expedition. Larger ships in the 200–499 passenger range technically qualify for Antarctica, but the rushed logistics mean you spend more time waiting than exploring. The Boarding ExperienceFrom the moment we arrived in Ushuaia, the experience felt like boarding a private yacht. Luggage was whisked directly to the ship, champagne and canapés were waiting in the lounge, and we were escorted to our stateroom with no long lines, no chaos. Stateroom Breakdown: Horizon Stateroom vs. BalconyWe booked the Horizon Stateroom, which features a floor-to-ceiling window that lowers halfway, giving you open-air views from the comfort of your cabin. In Antarctica's cold, this turned out to be the perfect choice over a balcony. The rooms also come with:- Oversized rain-head shower with body jets and a bench (no tiny cruise ship shower here)- Premium L'Occitane*bath amenities- Ultra-soft bedding, plush pillows, robes and slippers- Mini fridge stocked with your preferred beverages at no extra charge- Chaise lounge sofa, desk, and satellite TV with a curated film library *Note: Starting April 1, 2026, the Horizon Stateroom is being reclassified as a Junior Suite and will include Butler service. Daily Life & Expedition StructureEvery day was structured around two expeditions, typically one Zodiac tour and one shore landing. Passengers were divided into two rotating groups (ours was the "Weddell Seals"), so no single group always had priority. Plans changed constantly based on weather and ice conditions, and flexibility is key, but the expedition team handled every pivot seamlessly. The boot room (mud room) was central to the experience. Atlas provided parkas rated for extreme cold, rubber boots, and cleaned your gear between every landing to protect Antarctica's ecosystem. You keep the parka at the end of your voyage. Food & Dining: Better Than You'd ExpectDining was consistently one of the strongest parts of the ship. Here's what's included:- Main Dining Room: Buffet-style breakfast and lunch plus a rotating themed set menu for dinner (Italian, Asian, etc.) with multiple courses- Paula's Pantry- Counter service from 6:30 a.m. serving pastries, coffee, sandwiches, and daily rotating snacks- Afternoon Tea: Daily in the lounge with an extensive Kusmi Tea selection- 24-Hour Room Service: Full menu available any time — the midnight burger was excellent- All alcohol included: Beer, wine, and spirits all day, every day (except before excursions abd they enforce a strict no-alcohol policy before Zodiac tours and landings)- Fresh bread, pastries, and desserts baked daily by one dedicated baker and two pastry chefs using European-sourced ingredients What's Included in the PriceAt $10,000–$15,000+ per person (shoulder seasons like November and March on the lower end; peak and suites on the higher end), here's what's covered: the pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia, your flight to Ushuaia, the day tour before embarkation, all meals, all beverages (including alcohol and specialty coffees), gratuities, parkas, water bottles, and all expedition activities. Optional add-ons include kayaking, overnight camping on the continent, the Chef's Table, and spa treatments. Service: Nearly 1-to-1 Staff-to-Guest RatioWith approximately 130 crew members serving 153 guests, the service was personal in a way that's simply impossible on a mega-ship. Within a few days, staff knew every passenger's name. Our waiters remembered our preferences from the first meal. Gratuities are included, but the culture of going above and beyond was evident everywhere. The Expedition TeamSixteen experts from 11 countries — glaciologists, marine biologists, geologists, wildlife specialists — led every shore excursion with genuine enthusiasm. Sign up for a dinner with an expedition team member if you can; it's complimentary and completely worth it. Onboard Highlights You Wouldn't Expect- Crew Talent Show: One of the best evenings of the trip. Staff who you'd only seen behind the counter transformed into dancers, musicians, and a Rubik's cube speed-solver — all live.- Galley Tour: Met the executive chef and toured the immaculate kitchen — complimentary, not an upcharge.- Open Bridge Access: Visit the ship's bridge and talk with the captain and expedition leader — no extra fee.- Ship Stabilizers: Made a real difference in comfort during Drake Passage crossings.- Spa & Sauna: The sauna and heated loungers with panoramic windows overlooking Antarctica were unforgettable. Basic access is included; spa treatments are extra.  Who Is This Ship Right For? The Atlas Ocean Voyages World Voyager is for travelers who want an immersive, destination-first expedition, not entertainment-heavy cruise-ship nightlife. Expect educational lectures, wildlife encounters, and an intimate atmosphere rather than big Broadway-style shows. If you want everyone on the ship to know your name by day two, and you care more about getting *on* Antarctic soil than watching it from a deck far above the water, this is your ship. Atlas also sails Arctic itineraries(summer), Mediterranean routes (summer), and a few Caribbean itineraries during transitions, and much of what we've described (small ship intimacy, included inclusions, exceptional service) applies to those voyages too.   Resources & Links Mentioned - See our Full YOUTUBE video Atlas Ocean Voyages World Voyager — Full Ship & Cabin Tour 2026 - Book a trip or inquire about group travel: sunshinetravelersexperiences.com- Previous episode — Antarctica destination deep dive: Listen before this one for full context on what to expect on the continent   Connect with Us - Instagram & Facebook @SunshineTravelersPodcast- **Leave a 5-star review** on your favorite podcast platform — it helps other travelers find us! Planning an Antarctica expedition cruise and want personalized guidance? Reach out to us directly through sunshinetravelersexperiences.com We;ve done the research, and the trip, so you don't have to start from scratch.

Episode Summary: Planning a trip to Europe is exciting, but even seasoned travelers can fall into common planning traps. After years of traveling throughout Europe, and while planning our own upcoming multi-country trip, we’ve realized that the biggest mistakes usually aren’t the obvious ones. They’re the small decisions that seem harmless at first, but can turn into long lines, rushed train connections, or an itinerary that feels more exhausting than enjoyable. In this episode, we share ten of the most common travel mistakes people make when visiting Europe and, more importantly, how to avoid them. From planning too much in too little time to overlooking simple logistics that can impact your entire trip, these are lessons we’ve learned through real travel experience. If you’re planning a European adventure, this episode will help you avoid the pitfalls and build a trip that’s smoother, more enjoyable, and far less stressful. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Let us help you plan your next Adventure! Learn more about our planning services HERE!  Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️ More Resources & Links:  Get our Curated List of Travel Deals  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources  More Resources & Links  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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>  

 A few weeks ago we booked a weekend getaway in our home state of Florida.  Our criteria was not too busy and hidden gem.  We hit the nail on the head.  Join us as we share why this is an ideal mid winter getaway in Florida without the crowds or the high price tag.  Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Where we Stayed: Marriott Hutchinson Island Resort & Beach Villas, Golf & Marina Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee   More Resources & Links:  Get our Curated List of Travel Deals  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources   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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>

In our last episode, we shared that I’ll be retiring from my corporate role at the end of March. And for us, that doesn’t mean slowing down. It means changing how we travel. For years, we’ve moved fast. We’ve packed itineraries. We’ve seen incredible places in short windows of time. But this next chapter is going to be different. We don’t just want to visit places anymore. We want to stay. To rent an apartment for a month. To shop at the same market twice in a week. To learn the norms of a neighborhood. To go deeper. So when we came across The Good Life Abroad, it caught our attention right away. Because what Andrew Motiwalla has built aligns almost exactly with where Melissa and I find ourselves right now. It’s designed for people 55 and older who want to live abroad for one to three months — not as tourists, but as temporary locals — with built-in community and support. What you'll discover in our interview with Andrew: How The Good Life Abroad makes “living abroad” doable (even if it feels overwhelming): vetted apartments, a local community manager, built-in community, and a safety net (insurance, English-speaking doctors, help getting oriented). What it actually feels like to live in Europe for 1–3 months: the real adjustments (noise, late dinners, smaller kitchens, no ADA) and how the program prepares you so those things don’t become deal-breakers. Why slow travel + community changes everything in this season of life: how retirees find their “tribe,” travel with intention (like taking a class before a trip), and use longer stays to go deeper than a cruise or a one-week vacation. Learn more about The Good Life Abroad here Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️  More Resources & Links (Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure).  Get our Curated List of Travel Deals  Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide  See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources   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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>

If you’re searching for an honest Princess Cruises review, especially a real-world look at the Crown Princess, you’re in the right place. We recently sailed for 21 days in an Inside Cabin on the Crown Princess, from Hobart, Tasmania to Singapore, and in this episode, we're sharing our firsthand experience. In this episode, you'll discover what it’s really like onboard, what Princess Cruises does well, and where it may or may not be the right fit depending on how you like to travel. This is a candid conversation based on our 21 days spent onboard, conversations with crew and fellow passengers, and how the experience compares to other cruise lines we’ve sailed. From ship atmosphere and dining to entertainment, service, and who Princess Cruises is best for, this episode is designed to help you decide if a Princess Cruise, and the Crown Princess specifically, belongs on your shortlist, or if another cruise style might suit you better. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️ Resources & Links: From choosing the right cruise to planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, we can help you plan your next trip with confidence. Learn More Here! Get our Curated List of Cruise & Travel Deals Get Our FREE Ultimate Packing Guide See ALL our Favorite Travel Resources 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 Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>

In this episode we share that by only having 24 hours in Singapore puts you in “taste-test mode” — you’re not trying to do everything, you’re trying to feel the city. After disembarking from a cruise (with a few early-morning obstacles), we spent a full day chasing iconic Singapore experiences: kaya toast and local coffee at Ya Kun, the wow-factor of Gardens by the Bay (OCBC Skyway, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome), lunch at the famous Lau Pa Sat hawker center, and a festive night at Christmas Wonderland in Supertree Grove. (Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.) Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️ or using our links whenever you book a trip!  We also share where we stayed (Conrad Singapore), what we’d do differently next time (food tour, satay, more time), and a key lesson about visiting Jewel Changi Airport — including what no one tells you about early baggage drop and terminal logistics. What You’ll Learn in This Episode   • How to plan a Singapore stopover when you only have one day  • What’s worth paying for at Gardens by the Bay (and what you can skip)  • What to expect at a hawker center without a guide (and how to order smarter)  • The truth about durian ice cream (smell, taste, and the after-effects)  • Why Jewel Changi Airport can be trickier than it looks (check-in timing + terminals)  • Why Singapore is a great gateway for Southeast Asia cruises   • How many days you really need to do Singapore right (your sweet spot: 3–4 days) Here's Your 36-Hour Singapore Itinerary  Morning (arrival + hotel area)   • Cruise disembarkation + immigration e-gates tip: pack a day bag for the final night (toiletries, meds, pajamas, change of clothes, laptop)  • Transport tip: Grab is the main ride-hailing app  • Breakfast: Ya Kun Kaya Toast (kaya toast + coffee) Late Morning–Afternoon   • Gardens by the Bay   • OCBC Skyway (iconic Supertree views and Marina Bay Sands)  • Cloud Forest (Jurassic Park exhibit + indoor waterfall + walkways)  • Flower Dome (holiday train display and botanical zones) Lunch   • Lau Pa Sat hawker center   • Tip: order small items from multiple stalls instead of one big dish  • Reminder: clear your tray — signs warn of fines/bans Evening   • Evening Light Show at the SuperTree Grove (FREE) or if visiting during the holidays you'll need a ticket to the Christmas Wonderland at Supertree Grove   • or see the light and water show in front of Marina Bay Sands Hotel - if you're not familiar check out the Marina Bay Sands episode on Amazing Hotels Departure Day Add-On   • Jewel Changi Airport waterfall + photo spots  • Reality check: early bag drop depends on airline desk hours  • Terminal note: you may have to change terminals by bus/taxi, depending on where you depart Quick Tips   • Don’t rely on same-day ticket luck if you only have one day — book Gardens by the Bay tickets ahead.  • If you’re choosing between Supertree Observatory and OCBC Skyway, you probably only need one for views.  • At hawker centers, go with a plan (or better: take a food tour). If you’re unsure, order a few small things from different stalls.  • For Jewel: check your airline’s early check-in hours and your departure terminal before building your timing around it. Where We Stayed  Conrad Singapore (Hilton)   • Strong location for getting around  • Great value (you paid cash because points redemption wasn’t worth it)  • Upgrades + Diamond benefits made a big difference  • Excellent breakfast (lounge available but you didn’t have time) Best Moments   • The first “wow” view from the OCBC Skyway  • Cloud Forest: mist, waterfall, and Jurassic Park exhibit  • Holiday train display surprise inside Flower Dome  • Christmas Wonderland vibes in warm weather  • The chance encounter at the airport with fellow cruisers (and the Georgia Bulldog hat moment) What We'd Do Differently Next Time   • Add a food tour (especially for hawker centers)  • Try the satay you skipped at Lau Pa Sat  • Make time for Raffles Hotel + Singapore Sling   • Go up to Marina Bay Sands rooftop bar / viewing area  • Plan a longer stay: 3–4 days to slow down and go beyond highlights If Singapore is on your list — whether as a stopover or a longer stay — we’d love to help you plan it in a way that fits how you actually like to travel. 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 <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>  

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re stepping back from individual destinations to reflect on how we traveled this year, and how that is starting to shift everything for us. From revisiting familiar places in new ways to discovering hidden regions, connecting deeply with locals, and saying yes to moments we almost skipped, this episode is about travel moments and experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends. Instead of chasing checklists, we focused on connection, curiosity, and slowing down, and those choices led to some of our most meaningful travel moments yet. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee  ☕️ What You'll Discover in this Episode:  How we Revisited Familiar Places but Differently Alaska: Experiencing it by cruise after a previous road trip, flying over glaciers, landing at a remote lodge, and enjoying unrushed family time London: Staying at a bucket-list hotel, exploring new neighborhoods, using a city pass to try experiences we’d never done before, and learning to say yes to spontaneity Berlin & Hong Kong: Seeing cities through the lens of major political change—and how perspective shifts over time  How we Connected Through Food & Locals A sangria-making class in Barcelona that completely changed what we thought sangria was Why booking small-group tours—and inviting guides to eat with you—can unlock the most authentic experiences Unforgettable food moments in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Ireland, where meals became conversations, cultural lessons, and memories  New Regions & Hidden Gems Iceland stopover: Northern Lights, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and letting the landscape—not the clock—set the pace Northern Ireland & Donegal: Slowing down, renting a car, and discovering areas that surprised us the most Why going beyond the “must-see” list often delivers the richest travel experiences New Ways of Traveling Walking through Umbria, Italy, town to town—luggage transported, senses fully engaged Why walking (and cycling) travel changed how we connect with landscapes and people Two very different cruises that reshaped how we think about cruise travel  Lessons That Changed How We Travel Book tours with locals (smaller is better) Learn culture through food Be willing to miss something in order to go deeper Remember: destinations aren’t designed to make you comfortable—they’re home to someone else  Moments We Almost Missed, but Didn’t Whale watching in Eden, Australia Extending an Alaska trip to Denali Saying yes to Ireland at the last minute Volunteering abroad—and how it reshaped future travel plans  2025 Milestones & Looking Ahead to 2026 Reaching 6 out of 7 continents (with the final one coming soon!) Counting countries—and debating what “counts.” Why we’ve barely scratched the surface What’s coming in 2026: Antarctica, safari, and more  Our Takeaways from 2025  What mattered most this year wasn’t how far we went or how many places we saw; it was how intentional we became. The shared meals, quiet moments, and unplanned detours reminded us why we travel in the first place. As we head into 2026, our mission remains the same: to help you travel more and better.  Stay Connected with Us Have questions or thoughts, or need help planning your next trip? 📧 Email us: Scott@sunshinetravelers.com or Melissa@sunshinetravelers.com  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 ⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review—it helps more travelers find the show!  Read more about these 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 <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>   ⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review—it helps more travelers find the show!  

Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Here's the link to the exact tour we booked. It included the entrance to the Petronas Twin Towers.  What We Cover in This Episode In this episode, we share with you our  journey through Kuala Lumpur, exploring its rich culture, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Guided by a local, Nish, we delve into the city's history, visit significant sites like the National Mosque and Petronas Twin Towers, and enjoy authentic Malaysian dishes. Their experience highlights the importance of understanding a city through the eyes of its residents, making for an unforgettable adventure. 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 <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>

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: The best way to get to Hong Kong Disneyland How to buy tickets and what to know before you go What you don't want to miss: rides, shows, snacks, and more! Do you need to purchase the Skip the Line Passes When is the best time to go 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  ☕️ Related Episodes You'll Love:   Episode 145 - Hong Kong: Disney by Day, Skyline by Night, Two Perfect Days in Hong Kong 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 <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Dmitrii Kolesnikov</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371">Pixabay</a>