Sunshine Travelers Podcast

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,...

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we’re thinking about travel in 2026 . Not dates. Not spreadsheets. But mindset. We talk honestly about the tension so many travelers feel.  Do you slow down and stay longer in one place… or do you keep exploring and saying yes to new destinations? For us, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where slow travel, cruising, meaningful return trips...

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 aft...

Join us as we explore the heart of Penang, Malaysia, where food is more than just a meal—it's a cultural inheritance. With the guidance of a local expert, Poh, we visited vibrant hawker stalls and tasted traditional dishes like char kway teow and Hokkien Mee. This journey revealed the challenges faced by aging hawkers and the importance of preserving these culinary traditions. Beyond the food, we...

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 his...

 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...

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 t...

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 mome...

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 Prices...

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 captur...

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: Episode 144: Our Hong Kong Adventure – Trams, Ferries, and Disneyland Magic 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 ex...

  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 -&...

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’...

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-pa...

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 experi...

 When most travelers think of Indonesia, Bali comes to mind — but just across the water lies Lombok , a lesser-known island filled with waterfalls, volcanoes, beaches, and culture. In this episode, we dive into why Lombok is Bali’s beautiful, uncrowded alternative , and how we’re planning to spend one incredible day there during our cruise.   Whether you’re planning a port day or dreamin...

  In this episode, we share the story behind our most unique cruise yet — a repositioning voyage from Hobart, Tasmania to Singapore. This itinerary spans two continents , multiple climates, and countless unforgettable moments, from seeing the Sydney Opera House and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, to planning for Disney in Hong Kong. We dedicate this episode to Gene Bright , Scott’s st...

  Planning an international trip? This episode of the Sunshine Travelers Podcast is your ultimate guide to stress-free international travel. From what to pack in your carry-on for long flights to avoiding common passport mistakes, Scott and Melissa share their best tips to help you travel smarter, lighter, and better.  Whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or beyond, these inte...

3 Limited-Time Travel Deals: Beaches Family Fun, Atlas Expeditions & Viking’s Christmas on the Rhine 1. Beaches Resorts – Caribbean Sale Save up to 65% off room rates at Beaches Turks & Caicos or Beaches Negril , plus enjoy: 💵 Up to $400 Instant Credit 🛥️ $275 Tour Credit (on 5+ nights) 👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly with Sesame Street, scuba, and certified autism programs 📍 Grace Bay, voted T...

Planning a trip to Ireland and wondering whether to journey north? In this episode, we explore the wild charm of Donegal , a region known for its rugged coastline, hidden castles, and untamed beauty. From scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way to warm pub welcomes and windswept cliffs, we share what we experienced—and what’s still on our list for next time. If you’re looking for non-touris...

 This week’s episode of Travel Deals Thursday is all about unexpected luxury at a great value. We’re talking about: Marriott’s brand-new Postcard Cabins — 15% off 3+ night stays for Bonvoy members Expedia  Autumn Sale — 25%+ off thousands of hotels through March 2026 Explora Journeys luxury cruises — like a 6-night Barcelona to Tenerife sailing this fall, and a 2027 Egypt-to-Greece adven...

Learn more about tours at  IrelandByBike.com   Donegal Coast 1 Day Self-guided Electric Bike Tour When travelers dream of Ireland, names like Dublin, Galway, and the Ring of Kerry often come to mind. But on Ireland’s wild northwest edge lies a county that quietly outshines them all: Donegal . Rugged and soulful, this region is home to towering cliffs, glacial valleys, and a living Gaelic...

Deal 1: Virgin Voyages. Their brand-new ship, the Brilliant Lady, is making waves in the Caribbean. Right now, Virgin is offering 70% off the second sailor and up to $825 in instant savings on 7+ night Caribbean voyages. That’s a serious deal for a luxury-style, adults-only cruise with all the fun Virgin extras included. Click here to learn more!  Deal 2: Celebrity Cruises – Last-Minute Speci...

Touch down in Dublin, point the car north, and shake off that red-eye the right way—outside. In this episode, we walk you through a 48 hour Northern Ireland Itineary: fresh-air jet lag fixes at Cave Hill and Belfast Castle gardens, night photography around City Hall and Queen’s Bridge , a Causeway Coast day featuring the Dark Hedges , Kinbane Castle , the Giant’s Causeway , golden-hour views...

Looking for the hottest travel deals right now? In this episode, we cover Frontier Airlines’ GoWild! 2026–27 Pass that gives you 20 months of unlimited flights for just $299, a $69 Frontier status match to Gold with free carry-on and upgrades, an Icelandair sale with Europe fares from $385, and a free Iceland stopover , plus how to boost your Delta SkyMiles by earning more Medallion Qualification...