The Confident Traveler Podcast: Recent Episodes
Chuck Elias
A podcast to inform and empower our listeners who travel by sharing our own travel experiences and knowledge.
Chuck and Molly continue their conversation from our last episode, but bringing you reviews of two quick-service restaurants and two table-service restaurants. And of course, we can't help throwing in some related Disney news.
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Chuck is joined by Disney author Molly to discuss their experience at this year's Festival of the Arts at EPCOT, with some Disney news thrown in along the way!
Chuck provides details about a new promotion (1:42) then discusses a couple of unfortunate news stories from Africa (7:05) and England (16:33) that will have you thinking twice about booking your next trip on your own. Then Chuck provides some thoughts on the top 5 honeymoon destinations for 2025 (22:45) to consider if you got engaged today!
The team discusses news about a major cruise line canceling dozens of sailings for several ships, an unpleasant reaction by some cruise passengers after getting bad news, and new non-stop flights from southern New England to the Caribbean. Then we present several ideas for European destinations that offer fantastic Christmas Markets.
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Chuck discusses a couple of news stories involving the airline industry (1:34) and then shares some of the travel experiences for which he is most thankful for during this holiday season (9:18). Happy Thanksgiving, everybody!
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Follow along as Molly re-joins the show to tell us about this year's Food and Wine Festival at Epcot (2:20) and then share her experiences during her first visit to Disney Cruise Line's new private destination, Lighthouse Point (27:30).
Chuck lets everyone know where he's been all summer (1:24), then discusses some news stories about Amtrak's Auto Train (3:55), Frontier Airlines (6:50), and changes to the tourism page of one state's official website (10:25). Then we discuss the top tourist attractions, as voted by recent travelers (17:40). How many have you visited?
Chuck is joined by Kathryn to discuss their cruise through the Panama Canal on Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas. Hear about the process of passing through the locks and Gutan Lake. They'll also discuss food and entertainment, as well as their ports of call in Colombia, Panama, Mexico, and Guatemala.
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The team discusses news about cruise dress codes (1:51), current problems with Danube river cruises (9:05), and a new agreement to deal with over-tourism is Alaska (13:00). Then, Kristin talks about her visit to the first of the ABC islands -- Aruba (19:51).
Chuck is joined by Molly to review a few restaurants outside of the Disney Parks, including 'Ohana (2:29), Splitsville (21:32), Contempo Cafe (29:41), and Ale and Compass (33:03). Then Chuck shares his thoughts after touring Disney Cruise Line's most recent ship -- the Disney Wish (45:17). They close the show by talking about how to spend less money to get the Disney merchandise you love (62:47).
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The team discusses the plight of a group of people who were stranded in Africa after being late to return to their cruise ship (1:56), and talk about the difficulties for Carnival Cruise Line in having to move its operations from Baltimore after the collapse of the Frances Scott Key Bridge (11:08). Then Andrea tells us all about her recent sailing on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas (18:10).
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Our crew introduces a new contributor as we discuss big fun in the Big Easy. Chuck welcomes the whole family to the episode (1:16) and then they discuss their stay in New Orleans (2:18) and their most recent cruise on the Disney Magic (31:46)!
The team re-connects after the holiday hiatus, then discusses news stories about a shake-up at JetBlue and a huge disappoint for travelers who had hoped for a unique cruising experience. Finally, we discuss a Royal Caribbean cruise that is sailing around the world right now.
With Major League Baseball's World Series only two days away, we hope you'll enjoy this encore presentation of Chuck's favorite baseball stadiums and some great sports cities to visit.
Kristin shares her recent experience in Alaska. She spent 4 days traveling by train and bus, including 2 nights in Denali National Park. Then she tells us about her 7 night sailing on the Sapphire Princess cruise ship and her ports of call in Alaska's "Inside Passage".
Andrea rejoins the show (1:30) to discuss the elimination of Covid rules for cruises in Australia (6:18), new cruise ship restrictions in Barcelona (12:33), and clueless tourists in Rome (18:46). Then Andrea tells us about her latest trip to Central Florida, through the eyes of her 5-year-old son (25:25).
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Chuck discusses 3 news stories about travel to Europe, including new visa requirements for vacation travel to the EU (5:02), limits on visitors to a famous Greek landmark (9:23), and a very disturbing port of call for one cruise ship (16:00). Then he shares some ideas on travel destinations for celebrating a special anniversary (21:21).
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Chuck welcomes Molly back this Disney-themed episode (1:20) and they talk about a big change coming to WDW's park reservation system (6:10). Then, they review 2 quick service restaurants and several table service restaurants on Disney property (11:10). They wrap up the show by giving their impressions of "Epcot Forever", Epcot's returning night-time show (59:43).
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Chuck and Kristin do some catching up (1:16) and then talk about expectations for travel over the July 4th holiday (8:12). Then we explore unique evening festivals coming to several national parks (16:26) and discuss a new law that Kristin predicted six months ago (28:45)! Finally, we offer suggestions for how to spend a long weekend in Nashville, TN (33:18)!
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Chuck is joined by a returning guest as they discuss the most recent sailing hosted by Pioneer Valley Cruise Planners. They talk about the Celebrity Summit, its itinerary, entertainment, food, and service over a 9-night cruise to Bermuda.
Chuck opens the show by discussing a couple of fun promotions (1:53). He's joined by Kristin to talk about a new way to get banned by a cruise line (6:04), new limits for cruise ships in the port of Juneau (11:58), and a new documentary series about expeditions to Antarctica (19:53). Finally, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing, they share their experiences of the event from a traveler's perspective (29:08)
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Chuck is joined by Molly Elias to talk about two news stories about crowd levels and a new attraction set to open at Walt Disney World. Then Molly tells us all about her recent Disney Cruise that featured a Marvel Day at Sea, featuring character interactions and activities based on the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
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Chuck and Kristin follow up on news stories from previous episodes about sustainable travel (6:01), and a landmark legal case regarding travel to Cuba (15:52). Then we discuss the impact Emeril Lagasse might have as Carnival Cruise Line's new Chief Culinary Officer (26:15) as well as some other celebrity chefs working within the cruise industry (31:14). Finally, we talk about Kristin's exciting plans for an upcoming trip to Alaska (46:05)!
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The team catches up with each other by sharing their holiday experiences (1:25), then updates a recent news story about Frontier Airlines (11:44). Then they offer some insight into Southwest Airline's breakdown after the winter storms across the country (19:15). Finally, they give their predictions about what might be trending in the world of travel in the coming year (31:24).
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Chuck and Andrea catch up on what they did over the Thanksgiving holiday (1:14), including what it was like to fly over the holiday (11:32). Then they discuss Frontier Airline's decision to eliminate phone access for Customer Service (18:14) and a Thanksgiving miracle at sea (24:36). They finish the news segment with a discussion of Bob Iger's return to Disney after the firing of Bob Chapek (30:19). They end the show by recommending some pet-friendly resorts for people who want to travel with their fur family (38:35).
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The team catches up by sharing how much Trick or Treat traffic they got (1:15). Then Andrea talks about a new Hosted Cruise promotion (3:37). News stories include one cruise line that is dropping vaccination requirements (9:08) and two fun stories about air travel (16:23). Finally, Kristin takes us through her visits to Sedona, AZ (26:28) and the Grand Canyon (37:11).
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Chuck provides information about a great promotion for a Celebrity cruise to Bermuda (2:13) and then is joined by a returning guest to give details about Christmas programs at Disney (4:00), great news for Disney+ subscribers (8:27), and news about Disney Cruise Line's next new ship, due to arrive in 2024 (11:01). Then we get a complete review of Secrets Royal Beach resort in the Dominican Republic (14:50) and what it was like to honeymoon through Hurricane Fiona.
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Chuck opens the show by giving details about an exciting new ALASKAN promotion! (2:34) Then the team discusses the evolving rules regarding vaccination and testing requirements for US cruises (8:02) and how severe weather has recently impacted cruise itineraries (16:00). Then Kristin offers some suggestions for amazing Autumn travel destinations outside of New England (23:45).
Chuck opens the show by giving details about an exciting new ALASKAN promotion! (2:34) Then the team discusses the evolving rules regarding vaccination and testing requirements for US cruises (8:02) and how severe weather has recently impacted cruise itineraries (16:00). Then Kristin offers some suggestions for amazing Autumn travel destinations outside of New England (23:45).
Chuck opens the show with a reminder about a great promotion for a Celebrity cruise (1:58) and talks about two news stories involving Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship (4:29) and Carnival Cruise Line's attempt to curb bad behavior (8:52). Then, with baseball playoffs on the horizon, Chuck lists his five favorite ballparks (14:54) and his favorite Major League cities (33:42).
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Chuck welcomes his daughter Molly back to the show (1:21) to review several restaurants. Then they discuss their impressions of Epcot's two newest attractions (43:25), Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Then they finish up by talking about Epcot's nighttime show, Harmonious, after seeing it for the first time (59:51).
In this episode, Chuck shares details about a new promotion being offered (2:26). Then the team discusses new protests in Swedish cruise ports (6:45), a tourist's near-tragedy at Mt. Vesuvius (15:47), great news for single travelers (23:41), bad news for river cruisers (28:09), and Kristin wants to take bets on some HUGE changes to CDC requirements for US cruises (34:12).
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The team discusses the city of Charlestown's decision to no longer allow Carnival to home-port its ships there (1:58), as well as Carnival's new policy of not requiring documentation to verify passengers who claim to have a medical exemption from getting the Covid vaccine (13:59). Then we outline some of growing challenges that air travelers will face this summer (18:35), and share some breaking news about Disney's involvement in a rail system from Orlando's airport (27:49). Finally, we talk where we might travel if money were no object (33:54), including Antarctica, Scandinavia (42:14), and a cruise around the world (49:54)!
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Chuck catches up with Kristin (1:16) before diving into an encouraging story about efforts to make Panama City Beach in Florida more accessible to people with limited mobility (3:04) and some unfortunate news for Carnival Cruises (9:56). Then Kristin takes us through her journey from California to Colorado (19:18), with stops in Capitol Reef (23:52), Bryce Canyon (35:12), and Arches (42:56) Nat'l Parks, followed by a couple Honorable Mentions (50:55). And please stay to the end to meet Sashi, the newest member of Kristin's traveling party (55:52).
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Chuck is joined by his travel companions, Kathryn and Molly, to discuss their recent cruise on the Disney Dream. They talk about the ship, the food, the entertainment, the health and safety measures, and more. (Will they sing a number from Beauty and the Beast? Listen to find out!)
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Chuck gives an update on where the team members have run off to (1:19), then discusses several recent news stories that impact travelers, including the recent end of the mask mandate in airports and cruise terminals (3:26), a lawsuit against several cruise lines in regard to travel to Cuba (11:57), Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas takes a hit (17:18), and exciting news about a new attraction at Disney's Magic Kingdom (21:48).
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In this news-heavy episode, the team discusses a new all-inclusive resort that's local to listeners in the Northeast USA; some disappointing news for fans of Disney Cruise Line (9:44); inching closer to "normal" on many cruise lines (16:13); and how the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is affecting travel in Europe and the US. Then we offer some suggestions on how to spend a few days if you're thinking of an escape to Miami (36:04)!
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The team reviews their recent sailing with Star Clippers on board the sailing ship, the Royal Clipper. We start by recounting our time on the island of Barbados before boarding our ship (3:26), then discuss our impressions of the ship (20:45), the entertainment (30:20), on board activities (34:19), the food (46:00), the excursions we took (54:56), and the level of service we received from the ship's staff and officers (1:07:18).
In this episode, Chuck and Kristin outline some changes to the rules of entry for the island of Barbados. Then they share the process of preparing for cruising from an international port, discuss the value of travel protection, and offer some advice for making your planning process a little less stressful.
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In this episode, the team presents a great promotion for the Spring (1:44) then shares some news about a new cruise ship designed for permanent residents (3:16) and an unfortunate event on a Carnival cruise ship (12:13). Then we have a fun conversation about some of our favorite places to visit during the holiday season (21:22).
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The crew catches up by sharing how they spent Thanksgiving (2:00). Then Chuck shares details about a Disney promotion (9:39). We give an update to last episode's story about Thanksgiving travel (11:46), and talk about cruise ships returning to Key West (17:22) and New Orleans (24:20). Finally, we talk about a great retirement that includes travel as an integral component (30:12).
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Chuck shares an exciting update about a great cruise promotion (1:45). We also discuss news about some bad behavior at Yellowstone National Park (4:33) and a preview of what to expect if you're traveling over the Thanksgiving weekend (10:28). Then we talk about visiting San Francisco, Sonoma, and the surrounding area; offering some great tips and ideas for what to see while you're there (13:59).
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Chuck reminds listeners about a great cruise promotion for April of 2022 (1:58) and then sits down for a 1-to-1 conversation with Kristin (4:21) to hear about her late summer travels to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks (8:47) and Glacier National Park (34:08).
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Chuck is joined by his favorite travel companion as they share their experiences on a river boat cruise in England and their stay in the Cotswolds region north of London.
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In an all-Disney episode, Chuck delivers some news stories from Central Florida (2:19), then offers his family's reviews of four Disney restaurants. Starting at Disney Springs with Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' (7:21), and Enzo's Hideaway (19:37), followed by Trattoria al Forno (26:15) on the Boardwalk, and ending up with Trail's End (39:25) at the Ft. Wilderness Campground Resort. Bon Appetit!
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The crew catches up and shares some feedback on a previous episode (1:27). Then we discuss news about cruising returning to Costa Rica (4:15), changes to the UK's requirements for US visitors (10:16), and Norwegian Cruise Line's lawsuit against the state of Florida (15:47). Then we share some of our favorite travel-themed TV and web-based shows for your summer viewing pleasure (23:11).
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The team hears a little more about Andrea's trip to a lesser-known park in Central Florida (1:56) and talks about a promotion for an upcoming cruise (5:50). We discuss the plight of some unfortunate soccer fans (8:10) and Royal Caribbean's first sailing from Nassau (13:19). Then we share highlights of some great Canadian destinations, including Montreal (20:27), Toronto (31:26), Banff Nat'l Park (42:18), and Vancouver (47:15).
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The team talks about their feelings as life gets closer to "normal" (1:52) and gives an update on some promotions for 2022 (8:57). Then we discuss the first Caribbean sailing by a major cruise line and whether it was a success (11:39) and wrap up by talking about what do if you're traveling locally to Newport, RI (25:07), Ogunquit, ME (40:59), or Stockbridge, MA (49:06).
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The whole team gets together to catch up with a few laughs (1:27). Then we discuss the federal law passed last month allowing cruise ships to skip a foreign port when sailing to Alaska (6:03) and how happy we are that real cruises will be sailing from the US later this month (19:14). Then Heather gives us an in-depth review of her first visit to the city of Dubai (28:17)!
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Chuck is joined by two dinner companions who accompanied him to Walt Disney World to sample the Taste of the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot (2:08). Then we give detailed reviews of The Boathouse restaurant at Disney Springs (24:55) and Olivia's Cafe at Disney's Old Key West resort (41:20).
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The whole team gathers to talk about current promotions (3:15) and the possibility of cruising (8:28) and travel to Europe (21:56) this summer, thanks to moves by the CDC and the European Union. Then we update a story about the battle in Florida over cruise ships visiting Key West (26:25). Finally, we get a detailed comparison from Heather, as she visited both Disney and Universal last month (35:26).
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The team offers some great offers for group events being offered for cruises in 2022 (1:45). Then we analyze the Florida governor's press conference, Carnival Cruise Line's threat, and their possible effect on the CDC's timetable for a return to cruising (7:16). Finally, we look at the top 5 most-searched destinations for the summer of 2021 (19:16).
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The team recaps our Virtual Cruise Night (1:46) and updates a two previous news stories (4:45). Then we get excited about cruising's return to the Caribbean (9:34) and try to decipher Senate testimony from the CDC (19:59). Then Kristin walks us through her adventures in Biscayne Nat'l Park (34:33).
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The whole team gathers to talk about an amazing sailing experience (1:38), an interesting story about space tourism (4:45), and the possibility of some cruise lines using Cozumel as a homeport for Caribbean cruises (13:00). Then we give you all the details about Chuck and Heather's experience at Universal Orlando Resort (23:14).
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Where should you go on your next cruise? In this episode, the the team unveils our Top 10 cruise itineraries that you should consider when making that decision. Let us know if we've left out your favorite destination!
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The team provides some silly Superbowl analysis (1:34), shares info about our upcoming Cruise Night (2:08), then discusses the prospects for Alaskan cruises this summer (10:43). Another cruise line has confirmed that it will require passengers to be vaccinated (20:10), and some countries have begun dropping quarantine requirements for vaccinated travelers (29:21). The Kristin shares her most recent travel experience and how it was impacted by Covid protocols (32:25).
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The team discusses the benefits of touring with a small group, and the importance of connecting with fellow travelers and the communities that you visit. G Adventures tours are an example of responsible and sustainable tourism around the world.
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The team discusses an announcement for visitors to Hawaii who have received a Covid vaccination (2:25), changes to the rules for bring support animals on airplanes (9:48), and breaking news about Disney's Magical Express service (17:16). The we share the things that we're most looking forward to when travel returns to normal (23:36).
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The team looks forward to a couple group events (2:02) and gives an outlook for travel in 2021, including possible requirements for Covid vaccinations (10:03). Then we outline the new rules for Disney's re-implemention of park hopping at Walt Disney World (33:45) and wrap up the episode by having some fun at Chuck's expense!
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The whole crew is back and spends some time catching up (1:28) before going over some great offers currently available (4:55) and following up on a news story about Sea Dream cruise line (9:15). Then Kristin talks about a fun new adventure she's on (14:50) and tells us how Savannah, GA stole her heart (25:31)
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Chuck is joined by two special guests to review their dining experiences at the Walt Disney World resort in November of 2020. They start by talking about their visit to Epcot's Food and Wine Festival (1:49); then give detailed reviews of table-service restaurants Jaleo at Disney Springs (17:56), Sanaa at Animal Kingdom Lodge (37:01), and The Wave at the Contemporary Resort (52:06).
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In a rare solo show, Chuck talks about the CDC's decision to lift the No-Sail Order for cruises departing from US ports (1:40) and how the recent announcement of a viable Covid vaccine affects plans for cruise lines (13:46); the first Caribbean cruise to set sail since March (18:26); and results from 3 cruise-related referendums in Key West's recent election (24:08). Finally, don't miss some great travel deals available only from Pioneer Valley Cruise Planners (36:20)!
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The team gathers to talk about the week's news, including changes in Costa Rica's policy on Covid testing for US travelers (1:49), Covid testing now being offered at airports in the Northeastern US (8:59), and good news from a Carnival Cruise ship off the coast of Florida (12:45). The we discuss some of the advantages of cruising with a cruise line that offers smaller ships (17:10). We finish up with a surprise announcement about some upcoming travel plans (32:22), and an offer to join us!
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The whole gang is back together this week to talk about the Dominican Republic dropping its requirement for US visitors to have a negative COVID test before arrival in the country (1:50); some great news for US theme parks (17:50); and the Set Sail Safely bill that was introduced into the US Senate last week (27:00). And then Chuck drops some inside info that gets the team excited (43:37).
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The crew tackles several news stories from the past week. First, we try to come up with a plan to buy our own cruise ship (2:05). Then we discuss the story of an African-American woman who was subjected to racial abuse during a flight, and Delta Air Lines' response to the incident (7:10). We talk about a meeting between cruise line executives and Miami port commissioners (15:48). And then we outline some of the protocols that are currently in place for cruises that are sailing now in Europe. (22:08).
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The crew discusses some of the travel they've done recently within New England. We talk about Covid testing, social distancing at the beach and more. Heather talks about her hotel stays in Maine and New Hampshire (1:58) and Kristin shares about her stay at a vacation home in Vermont (20:02). Then Chuck discusses his visit to the Walt Disney World Resort and how the parks are keeping guests safe (37:17).
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Join us for a discussion about the current state of the travel industry, and some educated guesses about what lies ahead. We talk about what cruising looks like now (2:05), what land destinations are available for US travelers (8:50), and what the future may look like for the cruise industry (29:43). We wrap up with a surprise segment where the panel gives some advice to the host (36:08).
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Join the whole team as we discuss the top items on our personal bucket lists. Andrea talks about the island of Bali (1:59), Kristin shares her dream of visiting New Zealand (19:30), Chuck shares details about taking an African safari (32:58), and Heather opts for a spring visit to the Greek island of Santorini (45:45).
We're very pleased to have a special guest for this show. Disney writer Molly Elias joins the podcast to give us a first-hand report about what it was like to be at Disney Springs as it re-opened to guests. We talk about dining, shopping, entertainment and more.
The team offers insights into some of their favorite vacations. In Part 2 of the conversation, Kristin describes her adventures in Iceland and Andrea shares her experiences on the island of St. Thomas.
The team offers insights into some of their favorite vacations. In Part 1 of the conversation, Chuck talks about cruising the Mediterranean and Heather shares her experiences at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico.
The team discusses changes to Norwegian Cruise Line's cancellation policies, Bob Iger's resignation as Disney's CEO, and in honor of St. Patrick's day, we talk about travel to Ireland!
The team discusses the evacuation of US citizens from a quarantined cruise ship in Japan and plans for recovery after Australia's bush fires. Then we get a first-hand report about river cruising with U by Uniworld.