Marquesas Islands Travel, Viking Expeditions & Arctic Norway

An 18-hour sleeper train to the Arctic Circle sounds like a stunt until you hear what it’s actually like: comfortable compartments, clean Scandinavian rail service, and scenery that slowly transforms from forests and lakes into stark Arctic terrain. Mark joins us from Narvik, Norway on a family history trip, sharing one of the most scenic drives he’s ever done, plus why this corner of northern Norway is packed with dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and surprisingly rich World War II history.

From there, we jump into the travel updates that can change how your next trip feels from the moment you leave home. We break down Air New Zealand’s SkyNest sleeping pods and how they compare to the SkyCouch for families, couples, and solo travelers who need real rest on ultra-long haul flights to New Zealand. We also talk airport security trends, including TSA’s Gold Plus direction and the growing role of private screening partnerships, plus what that might mean for premium-style checkpoints and shorter waits.

If Europe is on your calendar, we share a practical readiness checklist for US travelers: ETIAS timing, passport validity rules that still cause denied boarding, STEP enrollment, and why comprehensive travel insurance can matter when medical coverage abroad and evacuation costs are on the line. Then we spotlight the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, before taking a deep dive into the remote Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia, including how to get there by Air Tahiti or the Aranui 5 cargo-and-cruise ship. We wrap with cruise advice you can use immediately, from Fiji small ship cruising to sea day survival, Viking’s expansion, and bucket-list Northwest Passage expedition cruising. If you enjoy smart travel tips and big destination inspiration, subscribe, share this with a travel buddy, and leave us a review.

Transcript

Show Preview And Norway Trip

Justin 0:00

Coming up this week on the Inside Travel Talk Podcast, Mark joins us from Norway after an incredible overnight sleeper train journey through Sweden and into the Arctic Circle. We'll talk about one of the most scenic drives in the world and what Americans need to know before traveling to Europe. Then later in the show, we dive into one of the most remote and fascinating places on Earth, the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. Plus, in our cruise segment, Viking is adding a dozen new ships. We'll talk about surviving sea days on longer cruises, and Mark invites all of our listeners to join him on a hosted British Isles cruise in 2027. That's all coming up right now on Inside Travel Talk.

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Show Voice 0:50

Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice.com. Call or text the show now. 801-649-3700. 801-649-3700. And check out the podcast at Inside TravelTalk.com.

Justin 1:27

Hello and welcome to another episode of the Inside Travel Talk Podcast. I'm Justin, and as always, I'm joined by Mark Faldmo from Blue Planet Vacations. Mark is actually joining us today from Norway, which is pretty cool because you are literally in the middle of a family history trip right now.

Mark Faldmo 1:44

I am, and this has been one of those trips that just keeps getting better every single day. We are up in northern Norway right now in Narvik, which is in the Arctic Circle. And after we finish recording this show, we're driving south toward Motion, where part of my family history is from. This area is absolutely stunning. It's dramatic mountains, deep fjords, waterfalls everywhere, little villages tucked along the coastline. It's one of the most scenic drives I've ever done.

Justin 2:11

And yesterday you had one of those travel experiences that people remember forever. You took the overnight sleeper train from Stockholm up to Narvik in the north of Norway.

Mark Faldmo 2:19

Yeah, and honestly, I highly recommend it. It was about an 18-hour train ride, which sounds intimidating until you do it. The sleeper compartments are comfortable. The scenery is incredible, and there's something really relaxing about slowly watching Scandinavia change outside your window. You leave Stockholm and gradually head farther north through forests, lakes, tiny villages, and eventually into Arctic terrain. One thing that's interesting is it never really gets dark. We are approaching the longest day of the year, so that is something that is interesting to experience.

Justin 2:56

I looked up photos after you texted me and it looks unbelievable.

Mark Faldmo 3:00

It really is. And one thing people don't realize is how easy train travel is in that part of Europe. The trains are clean, efficient, and comfortable. You can walk to the dining car, sit and look out the panoramic windows, and honestly, it becomes part of the vacation rather than just transportation.

Justin 3:19

And Narvik itself has a lot of World War II history as well.

Mark Faldmo 3:22

It does. Narvik was strategically important during World War II because of the iron ore shipping routes. There were major naval battles here between Allied and German force. There's a really interesting war museum in town that gives context to the region's history. Then today on our drive, we'll stop at the Arctic Circle Center, which is kind of a museum and visitor center marking the Arctic Circle crossing. It's one of those iconic road trip stops people remember forever.

Air New Zealand SkyNest Sleep Pods

Justin 3:53

Okay, I'm already jealous. Let's jump into this week's travel news because there's actually some pretty interesting developments happening right now. First up, Air New Zealand Sky Nest is finally open for booking. This has been talked about for years, and now travelers can actually reserve it. Mark, explain what this is because people are hearing beds on airplanes and thinking this sounds futuristic.

Mark Faldmo 4:13

It really does feel futuristic. Air New Zealand has been innovating long haul travel for a while now. A few years ago they introduced the Sky Couch, and now they're taking it another step further with Sky Nest. So the Sky Couch is basically a row of economy seats where the leg rests lift up to create a couch-like surface. It's ideal for couples or families because you can stretch out sideways. It's still in the economy cabin, but it gives you much more room to relax. The Sky Nest is different. This is an actual sleeping area built into the aircraft. Think of it almost like sleeper bunks on a train or capsule hotel beds. Travelers reserve a time slot to use one of these sleeping pods during the flight.

Justin 4:56

Which honestly makes sense because flights to New Zealand are long.

Mark Faldmo 5:00

Extremely long. From the US West Coast, you're looking at 12 to 14 hours, depending on routing. From the East Coast, it's even longer. So Air New Zealand recognized that there are travelers willing to pay extra just to get several hours of real sleep. The Sky Nest has six bunk style sleeping pods with bedding, pillows, reading lights, USB charging, ventilation, and privacy curtains. You reserve it in blocks of time during the flight.

Justin 5:28

That sounds amazing, honestly.

Mark Faldmo 5:30

Especially for people who struggle sleeping upright. And this could be a game changer for ultra-long haul travel. What I also appreciate is that Air New Zealand has always been very thoughtful about comfort innovations. The Sky Couch was brilliant for families, because instead of paying business class pricing, a family could reserve an extra economy seat and create a little resting space for kids.

Justin 5:54

So if someone asked you which option is better, Sky Couch or Sky Nest, how would you answer?

Mark Faldmo 6:00

It depends on the traveler. Families with small children probably still benefit more from the Sky Couch because everyone can sit together and spread out. Couples also really like it, but for solo travelers or people who absolutely need sleep, Sky Nest may be worth every penny. A few hours of actual horizontal sleep can completely change how you feel when arriving in New Zealand.

Justin 6:23

Especially because once you arrive, you want to enjoy New Zealand immediately.

Mark Faldmo 6:27

Exactly. You don't want to lose two days recovering from jet lag.

Justin 6:31

All right.

TSA Gold Plus And Premium Security

Justin 6:32

Next story. TSA has unveiled its new Gold Plus program as part of a broader shift toward private airport security partnerships. We talked about this a few weeks ago because more airports are experimenting with private security models.

Mark Faldmo 6:46

And some airports have been doing this successfully for years. San Francisco International is one example.

Justin 7:01

And the feedback has actually been pretty positive.

Mark Faldmo 7:04

Very positive in many cases. The idea is that private operators can sometimes be more flexible with staffing and customer service while still meeting federal standards. Now, this Gold Plus concept appears to be moving toward premium style security experiences, faster screening, potentially more personalized assistance, and more efficient checkpoint operations.

Justin 7:27

Which honestly sounds like where air travel is heading overall.

Mark Faldmo 7:30

It does. Airports are increasingly becoming segmented experiences. You already see that with lounges, expedited security, premium terminals internationally, and biometric screening. Travelers are willing to pay for less stress.

Justin 7:45

I think people underestimate how much stress airport security adds to travel.

Mark Faldmo 7:48

Absolutely. If you can remove uncertainty and long waits, the trip starts better. That's why programs like TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry became so popular.

Europe Prep ETIAS Passports Insurance

Justin 7:59

Speaking of travel changes, our next story is something we've been talking about for months: preparing for Europe travel changes.

Mark Faldmo 8:05

This is really important because Europe is entering a new era of tourism management. We're seeing new entry requirements, authorization systems, an increased emphasis on preparation before departure.

Justin 8:18

And one of the biggest upcoming changes is ETS.

Mark Faldmo 8:21

Correct. ETIAS is Europe's new travel authorization system for visa-exempt travelers, including Americans. Right now, the expected launch is targeting late 2026. Once active, U.S. travelers will need both a valid passport and ETIAS authorization before traveling to many European countries.

Justin 8:43

And this isn't a visa.

Mark Faldmo 8:44

Right, and that's important. It's more similar to the ESTA system that the U.S. already uses when foreign travelers visit the United States. But people need to understand it's still mandatory.

Justin 8:56

Another thing people overlook is passport validity.

Mark Faldmo 9:00

Huge issue. Many European countries require six months validity beyond travel dates. Every year, travelers get denied boarding because their passport expires too soon.

Justin 9:11

That would be devastating.

Mark Faldmo 9:12

Completely avoidable too. We always tell clients to check passports early, not a month before departure.

Justin 9:18

And you also recommend STEP enrollment through the State Department.

Mark Faldmo 9:22

I do. STEP stands for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. It lets the US Embassy know you're traveling abroad. If there's an emergency, political unrest, natural disaster, or family emergency back home, they can contact you more easily.

Justin 9:38

Let's also talk about travel protection because honestly, Europe trips are expensive now.

Mark Faldmo 9:42

They are. International travel protection has become increasingly important. Medical coverage abroad is one major factor. People assume their U.S. health insurance works internationally, and often it doesn't.

Justin 9:56

That's scary.

Mark Faldmo 9:57

Especially when medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We often recommend comprehensive plans for Europe trips, particularly for travelers taking cruises or multi-country itineraries.

Waikiki Stay At Hilton Hawaiian Village

Justin 10:11

All right, let's move into our hotel spotlight of the week because this is one of your favorites in Hawaii, the Hilton Hawaiian village Waikiki Beach Resort.

Mark Faldmo 10:20

I absolutely love this property. It's one of my most recommended hotels in Waikiki.

Justin 10:26

And people may think, oh, it's a big resort hotel, but there's more to it than that.

Mark Faldmo 10:30

Much more. First, the location is excellent. You're in Waikiki, close to shopping and restaurants, but the resort sits slightly apart from the densest part of Waikiki. So it feels more peaceful and relaxed. Second, it's huge, about 22 acres, which is rare in Waikiki. There are tropical gardens, koi ponds, multiple pools, and beachfront access. Third, the Rainbow Tower is iconic. People recognize it instantly from postcards and television. And I always recommend Diamond Head view rooms in that tower because the views are incredible.

Justin 11:08

Those sunrise views over Waikiki must be unbelievable.

Mark Faldmo 11:11

They really are. Another reason I recommend it is because it feels more Hawaiian than some Waikiki hotels. There's more open space, more tropical atmosphere, and honestly, it almost feels like you're staying on an outer island while still being in Honolulu.

Justin 11:27

And families love it too.

Mark Faldmo 11:28

Families absolutely love it because there's so much on site. Multiple pools, restaurants, lagoon activities, beach access. You can spend days there

Marquesas Islands Remote Polynesia

Mark Faldmo 11:39

comfortably.

Justin 11:39

Alright, now let's get into our main travel topic because Janice texted the show asking about visiting the Marquesas Islands after watching an old season of Survivor film there. And by the way, if listeners have questions for the show, you can text or call us anytime at 801-649-3700. Hey Mark, this is one of your favorite destinations in the world.

Mark Faldmo 12:03

It really is. The Marquesas Islands are magical. They're remote, dramatic, culturally fascinating, and unlike almost anywhere else in French Polynesia. When most people think of Tahiti and French Polynesia, they picture Bora Bora overwater bungalows. The Marquesas are completely different. They're rugged volcanic islands with towering cliffs, waterfalls, deep valleys, horses roaming free, archaeological sites, and very little tourism infrastructure.

Justin 12:33

It sounds more adventurous.

Mark Faldmo 12:35

Much more adventurous. And honestly, that's part of the appeal. These islands feel untouched.

Justin 12:40

So where exactly are they?

Mark Faldmo 12:42

They're part of French Polynesia, but located about 900 miles northeast of Tahiti. That isolation is part of what preserved their culture and authenticity.

Justin 12:52

How do people get there?

Mark Faldmo 12:53

There are two primary ways. The first is by cruise, and one of the most famous is the Arunui 5, which we've talked about before.

Justin 13:01

Which is part cargo ship and part passenger ship.

Mark Faldmo 13:04

Exactly. It's one of the most unique cruise experiences in the world. The Arunui supplies the islands while carrying passengers. So you're literally watching cargo unload alongside cultural performances and excursions.

Justin 13:17

That sounds incredible.

Mark Faldmo 13:18

It's immersive travel. You're not getting polished mega resort tourism. You're seeing real island life. The second option is flying. Air Tahiti operates flights from Tahiti to Nukuhiva and Hiva Oa.

Justin 13:34

Are there hotels?

Mark Faldmo 13:35

There are, though accommodations are limited and generally smaller boutique-style lodges or guest houses. On Nukuhiva, people often stay at La Nuku Hiva by Pearl Resorts, which has beautiful views overlooking the bay. On Hiva Oa, there are small lodges and pensions. It's more about authenticity and location than luxury amenities.

Justin 13:58

So this is not a mass tourism destination.

Mark Faldmo 14:01

Not at all. And that's exactly why many travelers love it.

Justin 14:04

Give us some history because the Marquesas seem culturally rich.

Mark Faldmo 14:08

Very much so. Polynesians settled the islands over a thousand years ago and developed a sophisticated culture with art, tattoo traditions, navigation, and ceremonial sites. European explorers later arrived, including Captain Cook. The islands eventually became part of French Polynesia. One fascinating historical connection is artist Paul Gauguin. He spent his final years in Hiva Oa, and his grave is there today.

Justin 14:39

Okay, let's talk reasons to visit. If someone is debating whether this complicated trip is worth it, what would you say?

Mark Faldmo 14:45

First, scenery. The islands are jaw-droppingly beautiful. Think Jurassic Park style mountains and cliffs rising dramatically from the ocean. Second, culture. Marquesan culture is incredibly rich and distinct from Tahitian culture. Third, archaeology. There are ancient tiki statues, ceremonial platforms, and sacred sites hidden throughout the islands. Fourth, authenticity, you won't find crowds or mass tourism. And fifth, adventure. Hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, village visits, and simply exploring remote landscapes make this an unforgettable destination.

Justin 15:25

It sounds like one of those trips people talk about forever.

Mark Faldmo 15:28

Absolutely. This isn't just a beach vacation, it's transformational travel.

Justin 15:32

Alright, let's finish segment one with this week's travel deal. Blue Planet Vacations is offering up to $200 off per person on custom-built South Pacific tours, including Tahiti, French Polynesia, Fiji, the Marquesas Islands, and the Cook Islands.

Mark Faldmo 15:49

And this is a great opportunity because these trips are highly customizable. Some travelers want luxury resorts, others want adventure and island hopping. We can combine cruises, boutique lodges, overwater bungalows, cultural experiences, really tailor the trip to the traveler.

Justin 16:09

And honestly, after hearing this Marquesas' discussion, I kind of want to go.

Mark Faldmo 16:12

Once people see photos, they usually do.

Justin 16:14

Alright, when we come back, we'll dive into cruise news, including Fiji small ship cruising, Vikings massive expansion plans, surviving sea days on transatlantic cruises, and Mark invites listeners to join him on a hosted British Isles sailing in 2027. Uh, stay with us, we'll be right back.

Show Voice 16:34

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Fiji Small Ship Cruising In Yasawas

Justin 17:49

Welcome back, Gensi Travel Talk. Time now for our cruise techno. And Mark, our first cruise story is actually really exciting because Blue Lagoon Cruises in Fiji has introduced its newest vessel, the MV Yasawa Princess 2.

Mark Faldmo 18:04

I'm genuinely excited about this because Blue Lagoon Cruises has long been one of the best ways to experience Fiji authentically.

Justin 18:11

And this is very different from a mainstream cruise.

Mark Faldmo 18:14

Completely different. This is intimate small ship cruising focused on the Yasawa and Mamanusa Islands of Fiji. The new Yasawa Princess 2 only carries about 44 passengers maximum with roughly 22 crew members. That's an incredible crew-to-guest ratio.

Justin 18:31

So service becomes highly personalized.

Mark Faldmo 18:34

Very personalized and very Fijian. Guests really connect with the crew and local culture. One thing I love about this ship is the panoramic windows in the cabins. Fiji is all about scenery. Turquoise lagoons, volcanic islands, palm lined beaches, and having those views directly from your cabin is fantastic.

Justin 18:54

And the ship seems designed around outdoor experiences.

Mark Faldmo 18:58

Absolutely. The large decks are ideal for sunset viewing. They also have easier water access with hydraulic boarding platforms and tender boats that let guests visit secluded lagoons and villages larger ships can't reach.

Justin 19:13

I saw one feature that honestly sounds amazing: the seapool.

Mark Faldmo 19:17

That's such a fun idea. When anchored, they deploy this inflatable seapoles, and guests can literally float in the water while drinks are served.

Justin 19:27

That sounds very Fiji.

Mark Faldmo 19:29

It really does. Small ship cruising creates experiences. Larger vessels simply can't replicate.

Cruise Boarding Tips And Packing Rules

Justin 19:36

Alright, next story. Don't pack your passport in check luggage. This came from a traveler who missed his cruise because his passport was inside his check bag and they couldn't retrieve it before the ship departed.

Mark Faldmo 19:48

This is one of the most important cruise travel tips we can give people. Never ever put passports, medications, cruise documents, or valuables in checked luggage.

Justin 20:00

Because once that luggage disappears into the terminal system, retrieving it becomes very difficult.

Mark Faldmo 20:05

Exactly. Cruise terminals move thousands of bags quickly. If your passport ends up inside one of those containers, finding it before departure can become impossible.

Justin 20:15

And cruises don't wait.

Mark Faldmo 20:17

They generally cannot. Cruise ships operate on strict port schedules and international clearance.

Justin 20:23

What are some other important cruise travel tips?

Mark Faldmo 20:26

First, I always recommend to arrive at least one day before your cruise. Flight delays happen constantly. And not having that pressure of flying same day, arriving at the airport, and then having to make it to the ship. All on the same day as second, carry medications in your carry-on bag. Third, print important documents, even if you have digital copies. Fourth, use luggage tags properly and clearly label bags. And fifth, if possible, use air tags or tracking devices in luggage. They can be extremely helpful.

Justin 21:00

Especially now when people travel with multiple bags.

Mark Faldmo 21:03

Absolutely. And honestly, preparation reduces stress enormously.

Sea Days How To Enjoy Them

Justin 21:08

Alright, let's go to our caller question. Rebecca called and wants to take a transatlantic cruise, but she's worried about the number of sea days. She asked, is there enough to do?

Mark Faldmo 21:18

I love this question because my answer has evolved over the years. When I first started cruising, two sea days felt long. I always wanted another port. Now I love sea days.

Justin 21:29

That's what experienced cruisers always say.

Mark Faldmo 21:31

It's true. Like a few years ago, I did a Hawaii to Tahiti cruise with five consecutive sea days, and honestly, it was wonderful.

Justin 21:39

What changed for you?

Mark Faldmo 21:40

I realized sea days are part of the vacation. Modern cruise ships have so much to do, but they also give you permission to slow down and relax.

Justin 21:49

Which many people need.

Mark Faldmo 21:51

Very much people spend their normal lives over scheduled and over stimulated. Sea days let you decompress.

Justin 21:58

So what do you actually do during multiple sea days?

Mark Faldmo 22:00

I usually balance activity and relaxation, but lean towards relaxation. I'll start on deck or my balcony watching the ocean, maybe attend a lecture or enrichment program, watch a movie, visit the buffet a few times, take a nap, watch sunset.

Justin 22:17

That honestly sounds wonderful.

Mark Faldmo 22:20

And cruise lines know how to program sea days well. There are cooking demonstrations, live music, trivia, theater productions, fitness classes, and specialty dining.

Justin 22:31

Plus, people become surprisingly social on long cruises.

Mark Faldmo 22:34

Very true. Sea days create community on board. You see the same people repeatedly, and conversations naturally happen.

Viking Expansion And Northwest Passage

Justin 22:42

Alright, now to our main cruise topic, because Viking has announced plans for a dozen additional ocean and expedition ships by 2031.

Mark Faldmo 22:50

This is huge news. Viking has been enormously successful because they've carved out a very specific niche, a destination-focused cruising for adults.

Justin 23:01

And we talked recently about their quiet season cruises.

Mark Faldmo 23:04

Which are fantastic. Viking understands their audience very well. They focus on cultural enrichment, included excursions, educational programming, and elegant Scandinavian design.

Justin 23:16

And now they're expanding both ocean and expedition fleets.

Mark Faldmo 23:20

Which tells you demand remains very strong for experiential cruising.

Justin 23:24

Let's specifically talk about expedition cruising, because you wanted to highlight one really unique itinerary, the Northwest Passage Expedition.

Mark Faldmo 23:33

This is one of the most fascinating expedition itineraries available anywhere in the world. The cruise explores parts of Greenland and Arctic Canada while attempting the legendary Northwest Passage route that explorers searched for centuries.

Justin 23:49

Which historically was considered nearly impossible.

Mark Faldmo 23:52

Exactly. This route became famous during the age of exploration because European powers desperately wanted a northern trade route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Justin 24:03

And now travelers can actually experience it.

Mark Faldmo 24:06

Yes, though it remains highly dependent on ice conditions. That unpredictability is part of expedition cruising.

Justin 24:13

Walk us through some highlights.

Mark Faldmo 24:14

The cruise typically begins in Greenland, which alone is extraordinary. You see enormous glaciers, colorful villages, and dramatic Arctic landscapes. Places like Illulasat are unforgettable because of the massive iceberg fields floating through Disco Bay.

Justin 24:32

That's one of those bucketless places photographers dream about.

Mark Faldmo 24:36

Absolutely. Then the itinerary ventures into remote Canadian Arctic regions, rarely visited by travelers. Some communities are accessible only a few months each year.

Justin 24:46

So you're seeing places very few humans ever visit.

Mark Faldmo 24:49

Exactly. You may encounter Inuit communities, wildlife, including whales and polar bears, abandoned exploration sites, and vast untouched landscapes.

Justin 24:59

That sounds more like exploration than vacation.

Mark Faldmo 25:02

Expedition cruising really is modern exploration, and Viking does an excellent job with onboard enrichment. Historians, scientists, naturalists, and expedition leaders help explain what you're seeing.

Justin 25:16

I imagine the scenery is just non-stop spectacular.

Mark Faldmo 25:20

It is icebergs, fjords, tundra, arctic wildlife, midnight sun, depending on season. It's mesmerizing.

Princess Deals And Hosted British Isles 2027

Justin 25:28

Okay, let's move into our cruise deal of the week. Princess Cruises currently has its Discover the World sale with up to 40% off fares and up to $400 off instantly, third and fourth guest sailing free on select voyages, and $99 deposits.

Mark Faldmo 25:43

This is one of the stronger princess promotions we've seen recently because it combines several incentives.

Justin 25:50

And this is a good time to book ahead.

Mark Faldmo 25:52

Especially for Alaska, Europe, and holiday sailings, because those itineraries fill quickly.

Justin 25:58

And speaking of Princess Cruises, Mark is hosting a British Isles cruise in May 2027.

Mark Faldmo 26:04

And I'm very excited about this sailing because I think it's one of the best British Isles itineraries available.

Justin 26:10

This is aboard the Majestic Princess and sales round trip from Southampton, England from May 13th through May 25th, 2027.

Mark Faldmo 26:18

Correct. It's a 12-day sailing visiting England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and France. What I love about this itinerary is the diversity.

Justin 26:27

Walk us through some highlights because this route looks amazing.

Mark Faldmo 26:30

We begin in Southampton, which makes a perfect gateway for London. There's also an optional two-night London pre-cruise package that includes sightseeing like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Churchill War Rooms, and a Thames River cruise.

Justin 26:46

That's a great add-on, honestly.

Mark Faldmo 26:48

It really is, because London deserves extra time. Then the cruise visits Falmouth in Cornwall, one of the most scenic parts of England, with dramatic coastlines, fishing villages, and legends tied to King Arthur. Next is Cove in Ireland, famous as Titanic's final port of call. Guests can visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney stone.

Justin 27:11

Which every tourist has to do once.

Mark Faldmo 27:14

Exactly. Then Dublin, Liverpool, Belfast, Glasgow, Invergordon, and Edinburgh.

Justin 27:21

That's an incredible lineup.

Mark Faldmo 27:23

It really is. Edinburgh alone is worth the trip. Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood House. It's one of Europe's great cities.

Justin 27:33

And you also stop in Normandy, France.

Mark Faldmo 27:35

Yes, Le Havre gives access to Normandy and Paris. Guests can visit the D-Day Beaches, which are deeply moving historical sites.

Justin 27:43

This feels like a cruise packed with history.

Mark Faldmo 27:46

Very much so. History, scenery, culture, castles, music, heritage. It's incredibly rich.

Justin 27:53

And listeners can actually join you on this hosted sailing.

Mark Faldmo 27:56

Absolutely. I'll be on board hosting, giving destination insights, helping organize group activities, and spending time with listeners throughout the trip.

Justin 28:06

Pricing starts around $21.39 per person for inside cabins.

Mark Faldmo 28:10

Correct. And balcony cabins start around $2739.

Justin 28:14

And honestly, British Isles cruises tend to book early because there's a limited season.

Mark Faldmo 28:21

Exactly. Summer availability can disappear quickly. If you're interested, visit BluePlanetvacations.com or give us a call at 888-718-7717.

Norway Takeaway And Weekly Recap

Justin 28:32

All right, Mark, before we close, any final thoughts from Norway?

Mark Faldmo 28:35

Just a reminder that travel experiences don't always have to be tropical beaches or famous landmarks. Sometimes it's a sleeper train through Scandinavia, tracing family history above the Arctic Circle or driving through landscapes you'll remember forever. Those experiences stay with you.

Justin 28:53

I love that. All right, let's uh recap the show. This week we talked about Air New Zealand's innovative new Sky Nest sleeping pods and how they compare to the SkyCouch. We covered new airport security developments, including the TSA Gold Plus program, and the continued shift toward private screening partnerships. We also discussed preparing for Europe travel changes, including ETIAS requirements, passport validity, and travel protection. Our hotel spotlight was the Hilton, Hawaiian village Waikiki Beach Resort, one of Mark's favorite Waikiki resorts, especially the iconic Rainbow Tower with diamond head views. Then we explored the incredible Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia and how travelers can reach them either by cruise or by air. Don't forget, Blue Planet Vacations is offering up to $200 off per person on custom South Pacific tours, including Tahiti, Fiji, the Marquesas, and the Cook Islands. In our cruise segment, we discussed Blue Lagoon Cruise's new Yesawa Princess II in Fiji, important cruise travel tips like never packing your passport and check luggage, and why sea days can actually become one of the best parts of cruising. We also talked about Vikings' major expansion plans and their incredible Northwest Passage expedition cruises. And finally, we highlighted Princess Cruise's Discover the World Sail along with Mark's hosted British Isles Cruise in May 2027. And if you'd like information on any of today's topics, visit BluePlanetvacations.com or give us a call at 888-718-7717. Mark, thanks as always.

Mark Faldmo 30:26

Thanks, Justin. Always fun to do the show.

Justin 30:28

And we'll leave you today with this quote from Anthony Berdan. Travel isn't always pretty, it isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts.

Show Voice 30:44

That's it. That's the end of the show. You've been listening to the Inside Travel Talk Podcast and Radio Show. Presented by BluePlanetVacations.com. Book your adventure right now. Call 888-718-7717. That's 888-718-787. Thanks for the tour. Have a great week.

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