Fly Away

In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of river cruising with insights straight from the ASTA River Cruise Expo in beautiful Vienna. Stacey will be sharing firsthand experiences from this incredible event where top river cruise lines come together to showcase what sets them apart. From tasting exquisite meals onboard, exploring elegant ships, … Continue reading Episode 549: River Cruise Expo in Vienna with Stacey →

Norwegian's newest ship has arrived! The Norwegian Aqua is the first ship in their Prima Plus class. She boasts an Aqua Slide Coaster, larger spaces, and new restaurants. Recently, several Outlander Travel agents were able to check out this new ship in NYC for a 2 night inaugural event, and Sandy is eager to tell … Continue reading Episode 548: Norwegian Aqua Preview →

Let's dive into the future of cruising with MSC World America — MSC Cruises' newest flagship, setting sail in 2025. Outlander Travel agents Elizabeth and Kristen were among the first to experience this incredible ship, designed specifically for the North American market. This next-generation vessel blends cutting-edge technology, world-class entertainment, and bold, modern design. From … Continue reading Episode 547: MSC World America Inaugural with Kristen →

Get ready to be transported to rolling green hills, ancient castles, and cozy pubs because Elizabeth just got back from a trip to Ireland and she has all the insider stories and tips! We’re diving deep into cultural experiences, hidden gems, and travel tips you won’t want to miss. So, grab your headphones, maybe a … Continue reading Episode 546: Ireland with Celtic Tours →

Sailing with Virgin Voyages is a fresh take on cruising, offering a chic, adults-only experience designed for relaxation and adventure. With stylish, modern ships, all-inclusive perks like gourmet dining, fitness classes, Wi-Fi, and tips, every detail is curated to feel effortless. From sunrise yoga on the deck to late-night entertainment and vibrant port stops, Virgin … Continue reading Episode 545: Virgin Voyages Circle Feb 2026 →

The holidays at Walt Disney World are truly magical, with festive decorations, dazzling lights, and special events that bring the Christmas spirit to life. At Magic Kingdom, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party offers exclusive holiday parades, fireworks, and complimentary treats, creating a winter wonderland filled with Disney magic. Over at Disney's Hollywood Studios, Jollywood Nights … Continue reading Episode 544: WDW Jollywood Nights vs MCMCP →

This week, we are embarking on a captivating journey through the waves and waterways, comparing two enchanting travel experiences: European river cruising and ocean cruising. Whether you're a seasoned seafarer or a first-time cruiser, this episode will help you navigate the distinct nuances and unique charms of each option. From picturesque riverbanks to panoramic ocean … Continue reading Episode 543: European Cruising – Ocean vs River →

Picture this: champagne in hand, dancing under the stars. Cruising during the holidays offers a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the season at home and indulge in the ultimate floating celebration. This week we want to tell you about an unforgettable New Year's Eve group cruise Sandy has set up on … Continue reading Episode 542: Celebrity NYE with Sandy →

Today, we're diving into one of the inevitabilities of travel – the mishaps, the unexpected detours, the lemons life sometimes throws at us while we're on our adventures. This week we want to show you how to make lemonade out of those lemons. Whether it's a delayed flight or an unexpected cruise itinerary change, we've … Continue reading Episode 541: Making Lemonade out of Lemons →

Oasis of the Seas is a groundbreaking cruise ship that marked a new era in the cruise industry when it debuted in 2008, the first of the innovative Oasis Class and designed to redefine what a cruise experience could be. At the time of it's launch, it was the largest cruise ship in the world, … Continue reading Episode 540: Sailing Oasis of the Seas with Meg →

Today, we’re diving into the world of Ama Waterways – a leader in luxury river cruising renowned for its immersive experiences and exceptional service. Recently, Sandy had the privilege of sailing on the magnificent Ama Magna, a unique vessel that’s twice the size of traditional river cruise boats, offering unmatched space and luxury. Alongside 30 … Continue reading Episode 539: Sailing the Danube on the Ama Magna →

Overtourism is defined as “the impact of tourism on a destination, or parts thereof, that excessively influences perceived quality of life of citizens and/or quality of visitor experiences in a negative way”. It occurs when there are too many visitors to a particular destination. The actual number of visitors is subjective to the capacity a … Continue reading Episode 538: Go There, Not Here! →

Windstar Cruises offer a uniquely luxurious experience that larger ships simply can’t match. With fewer passengers, you get more space, personalized service, and access to hidden gems that are off the beaten path—away from the usual crowds. You can also go back and listen to Episode 484 to hear more of the background on this … Continue reading Episode 537: Windstar in the BVI with Aimee →

One of the hardest parts of planning a vacation is paying for it We know. The struggle is real! So tonight, we wanted to help you with some guidelines about today's travel costs so that as you begin planning your trip, you know what to expect. Sandy – Donna – Anna

Every Christmas, Kristen's family does a scavenger hunt to reveal a family gift or trip. This past year they decided to give the gift early, and we got to follow along on her Facebook page. We loved the idea so much we wanted to bring her on the podcast to tell us all about it. … Continue reading Episode 535: Kristen’s Family Scavenger Hunt →

Let's face it, traveling with children, especially young children, is complicated. Even the most seasoned travelers can find themselves a bit confused about the best destinations, planning tips, and even activities for the trips they plan with their children or grandchildren. But never fear, we're here to help! We've all traveled with kids of various … Continue reading Episode 534: Family Travel with Younger Kids →

Time travel is real. Especially when you journey back centuries to the Old World with Globus European tours. Down cobblestone lanes and well-worn paths, we venture way past the landmarks to immerse you in Europe's enchanting landscapes and legends of lore. Yet in the land of fairytale settings, we go beyond storytelling to satisfy your … Continue reading Episode 533: Touring Europe with Globus and Avalon →

Sandy – Donna – Anna – Lindsay Virgin Voyages is the known for so many great details – those hammocks on the balcony, amazing dining, no kids! Recently Sandy and some friends went on a holiday cruise to kick off her Christmas in the Caribbean, and she's excited to tell us all about it.

The Galapagos National Park began in 1959 with very limited resources. In 1967 Lars Eric Lindblad put together the first Travelers Expedition on a chartered Chilian Navy Vessel. For more than 50 years Linblad has helped curious travelers experience the world, while actively playing a role in preserving the worlds natural wonders for future generations. … Continue reading Episode 531: Galapagos with Linblad National Geographic →

Portugal seems to be all the rage these days, with tourism booming but even more with people moving there for a change of pace thanks to their flexible visas and tax laws. So Elizabeth, who had never been to the Iberian peninsula at all in all of her trips to Europe, decided she had to … Continue reading Episode 530: Exploring Portugal with Avalon River Cruises →

For nearly a century Tauck has invited guests to see the world as never before, to travel the world with exclusive access, authentic local connections, insider knowledge, and unique one of a kind experiences. Continually raising the bar to find new ways to connect you more deeply with the places you explore. Recently Lindsay had … Continue reading Episode 529: Tauck River Cruising →

Sandy – Donna – George

We all remember the devastating news from August 2023 of the fires in Maui. This week we're welcoming Stacey back to the show because she just got back from Maui, and we want to know how things have recovered, and if it's open for business. Sandy – Donna – George

When most people think of Hawaii, the island of Oahu is what comes to mind. Oahu is the 3rd largest of the Hawaiian islands and is the most populated. The capital of Honolulu is located here as well as world-famous Waikiki Beach. Our fellow agent, Stacey recently travelled to Oahu for her husband's 60th birthday. … Continue reading Episode 526: Oahu with Stacey →

The Island of Hawai'i, also known as “The Big Island”, is the largest in the Hawaiian island chain. From volcanoes, to mountains, to beaches, there is plenty to explore! This past summer Brook and her family visited, and she's here to tell us about it. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

We're also excited to welcome back Anna. Recently, Anna and her daughter took a special trip to Walt Disney World before sending her off to college. It got us thinking! Several of us here have had children who have recently grown up and flew the coop. We thought it would be fun to talk about … Continue reading Episode 524: Last Trip before they fly the coop with Anna →

We're joined tonight by Fellow Outlander Travel Agent Robin. Robin had the opportunity to visit some amazing resorts in the beautiful country of Costa Rica and she's here too tell us all about it Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

Park City, Utah has a rich history and there is a world of opportunities for the outdoorsy type. In the mid-1800s, Park City was established as a silver mining town and the influences of that history can still be seen today. Looking like an old western movie set, Main Street is filled with galleries, shops … Continue reading Episode 522: Park City Utah in shoulder season. →

Everyone who studied ancient civilizations knows a little something about the Ancient Egyptians. They built The Pyramids. They had hieroglyphics that was their written language that decorated their temples and tombs. They invented “paper” or papyrus. Egypt is one of those places that are on most people's Top 5 or Top 10 Destination Lists. Donna … Continue reading Episode 521: Exploring Egypt on Amawaterways →

Here at Outlander Travel, we believe that no trip to southern California is complete without visiting a couple of theme parks. Brook and her family did just that this summer, visiting both Universal and Disneyland. She's here to fill us in on what's new. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

Norway is a destination full of charms, including its famous fjords, Viking legends, thriving cultural heritage and quaint fishing villages. From north to south, it is a nature lover’s paradise that also boasts numerous trendy cities to explore. Whether you are exploring by Boat, Train, Plane or foot- a beautiful adventure awaits! Lindsay is here … Continue reading Episode 519: Norway with Lindsay →

Although Lindsay will argue that Finland is Magical all year round- during the colder Months Finland Transforms into a Winter Wonderland- complete with beautiful snow covered vistas, The REAL Santa Claus, Northern Lights, and enough indoor and outdoor activities to delight the whole family! Lindsay is here to share a few of her favorite Winter … Continue reading Episode 518: Winter in Finland with Lindsay →

The Celebrity Beyond is the third Edge class ship in the fleet. This beautiful ship is currently sailing year round out of Fort Lauderdale. Sandy recently attended a Seminar at Sea on the Beyond and she's here to tell us all about it. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

Azamara is quickly becoming one of our favorite smaller ship experiences. Aimee and her daughter recently returned from a cruise through Italy, ending in Monte Carlo, and she's here to tell us about it. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

Virgin Voyages is making a name for themselves in the cruise industry. One of the biggest things that sets them apart is No Kids! Anna and her husband just returned from an anniversary cruise in Europe and she's here to tell us all about it. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

Katherine is in her first year of travel planning, and she plans everything from Caribbean cruises to European vacations. She has a passion for wellness, which is why she decided to experience Palmaia, the House of Aia. We covered this property back in episode 330 when it was new, so we're excited to hear about … Continue reading Episode 514: Palmaia The House of AiA with Katherine →

Sandals Regency La Toc is set on the 220 Acre La Toc Estate in St. Lucia. It offers a half mile of beach, 9 specialty restaurants, 8 bars, and sharing privileges with 2 other Sandals resorts. Kristen just returned from a visit with her husband, and she's here to tell us all about it. Sandy … Continue reading Episode 513: Sandals Regency La Toc with Kristen →

Royal Caribbean recently launched Utopia of the Seas, their latest Oasis class ship. She's sailing 3 and 4 night itineraries out of Port Canaveral, which makes the perfect add on to a Florida vacation, or a short trip for people who can't get away for a whole week. Elizabeth and Sandy were on the Pre-Inaugural … Continue reading Episode 512: Utopia of the Seas with Sandy and Elizabeth →

This week we're heading back to Alaska with one of our favorite cruise lines – Holland America. We're switching it up a little, because one of our agents, Stacey, was recently able to experience their Yukon land tour, and she's here to tell us about it. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

The Rhine River has been a major thoroughfare for the shipping of goods and people since Roman times. Even today, it still serves as a major European river for transport. Donna recently was able to travel the Rhine for her anniversary with her husband aboard the Ama Serena on the Rhine Castles and Swiss Alps … Continue reading Episode 510: Cruising on the Rhine onboard Ama Serena →

Catalonia resorts are a chain of family hotels and resorts scattered across the world. They have 10 resorts in the Caribbean including the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Jamaica. George and Donna recently visited two different Catalonia resort and are here tonight to compare their experiences. Sandy – Donna – George – Lindsay

On this episode we're going to immerse you in the enchanting world of Disney aboard the breathtaking Disney Magic. Our fellow Outlander Advisor Nitra has just returned from a 4 night sailing that included a stop at Disney's new private destination Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. And she's here to tell us all about it! … Continue reading Episode 508: Sailing on the Disney Magic with Nitra →

When you think of Switzerland, what comes to mind? Chocolate, Cheese, Swiss watches, the Alps? Switzerland offers all of these in spades. You definitely want to add this country to your list if it is not already on it. Donna took her son to Switzerland for Spring Break and is here to tell us about … Continue reading Episode 507: Switzerland with Globus →

When you think of all-inclusive resorts, the name Sandals is usually the first thing that comes to mind. Since 1981, Sandals Resorts have been leading the Caribbean all-inclusive industry by offering guests more amenities, more luxury, more innovations, and more choices than any other beach resort. Their properties are located on some of the most … Continue reading Sandals Royal Curacao with Anna →

Have you been dreaming of the land Down Under and just can't quite figure out how to go about that daunting task of planning that trip to the Australian continent. Well, we are here to help you figure out what to do and where to go to maximize your time and see what can't be … Continue reading Episode 505: Australia with Jeff Adam →

As I was watching the Lord of the Rings trilogy, I could not help but notice the gorgeous landscapes that Peter Jackson flawlessly portrayed on screen. Yes, I just outted myself as a closet nerd, but you have to admit that the scenery was amazing. If you ever dreamed of seeing these beautiful landscapes, then … Continue reading Episode 504: New Zealand with Jeff Adam →

Located almost 600 miles west of the coast of Ecuador, The Galapagos Islands are one of the few places on Earth that remain largely untouched and unchanged by man. With a population of about 30,000 living predominantly on three of the 127 volcanic islands, the volcanic archipelago is best known for its contributions to Darwin's … Continue reading Episode 503: Life Changing Journeys: The Galapagos Islands →

You've been to Disney World or Disneyland and now you are looking to branch out on your Disney journey. Try Disney Cruise Line! Disney Cruise Line offers some unique experiences that you cannot find on other cruise lines. Donna was invited by Disney to check out the Disney Dream and she is here to give … Continue reading Episode 502: The Disney Dream EAP with Donna →

A lot of people dream about visiting Europe for the vacation of a lifetime! But have you ever considered doing it on a cruise ship? And not on just any cruise ship, but on one of the biggest, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas! Fellow Outlander Advisor Kristen just returned from a trip doing just … Continue reading Episode 501: Big Ship Cruising in Europe with Kristen →

500 Episodes, can you believe it? What a huge milestone! We did the math, and that is over 9 and a half years of weekly chats – who knew we’d have so much to say! We thought it would be fun to look back at where we were when this all started, and see how … Continue reading Episode 500: The Evolution of Travel →

When someone mentions Milan, what do you think about? Fashion, History, Food? Well, Milan has all of these in spades. It is so much more than just those things and Donna is here to tell us about her short trip to Milan. Sandy – Donna – George