Sunshine Travelers Podcast

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 international travel tips will help you save time, avoid stress, and feel more prepared when you land in a new country. Plus, we’re sharing exactly how we survive long-haul flights—and how you can, too. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/disclosure-and-disclaimer]. IN THIS EPISODE: * What to do before you leave (passports, visas, insurance, and safety prep) * Our long-haul flight essentials kit * How to beat jet lag and arrive refreshed * Packing tips for international travel * The best apps for international trips (currency, translation, transportation, and more) * How to stay connected abroad with eSIMs and local data * Tips for navigating airports, customs, and money exchange  * The mindset shift that makes international travel smoother   RESOURCES & LINKS MENTIONED: *  Don’t waste your precious vacation time with Jet Lag, get Flykitt [http://flykitt.pxf.io/mOZZKO] and watch Jet Lag disappear! * Stay connected when you travel for LESS than using your carrier's international plan, download an eSIM from Gigsky [https://gigsky.pxf.io/sunshinetravelers]and save a ton of money- Use code SUNSHINE for 10% off  * Allianz Travel Insurance [https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/find-a-plan] * Learn more about a Global Rescue [https://partner.globalrescue.com/sunshinetravelers/index.html] Membership here * TripIt  [https://www.tripit.com/web]   More Resources & Links  *  Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders [https://sunshinetravelers.com/deals] — 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. [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/opt-in-56f0e184-9884-4c9f-934b-ff2d80ac0f1a] *  Protect your privacy, boost your security, and keep your browsing data safe with Express VPN. Plus, get 3 months free with a yearly plan [https://go.expressvpn.com/c/5619374/1462855/16063]. CONNECT WITH US: Explore more travel tips and itineraries: sunshinetravelers.com [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com] Need help planning your next trip? Let’s Plan It Together [https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/plan-your-trip] *  Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/] | YouTube [https://youtube.com/] *   [https://youtube.com/]Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Follow us on  [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs]X @sunshinetrvlrs [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs] *  Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/104020955/admin/dashboard/] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] *  Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.threads.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Connect with us on Threads  [https://www.threads.net/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.pinterest.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371 from https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371

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-touristy places to visit in Ireland, want ideas for your Donegal itinerary, or just love discovering lesser-known gems, this episode is for you. WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE * Where is Donegal, and why we think it is Ireland’s best-kept secret? * Hidden gems we visited and where we will visit next: Glenveagh National Park, Malin Head, castle ruins & more * What makes Donegal different from areas in the South of Ireland * Why we’re already planning a return trip (and what we want to see next time) * Tips for planning your own Donegal road trip  If you’ve been to Donegal and have tips to share—or if you’re planning a trip to Donegal soon—we’d love to hear from you! Drop us a message on Instagram or leave a comment wherever you listen to podcasts. Where to Stay Near Malin Head [https://www.expedia.com/Hotel-Search?destination=Malin%20Head%20Viewpoint%2C%20Malin%2C%20County%20Donegal%2C%20Ireland®ionId=766949873344303104&latLong&d1=2025-10-05&startDate=2025-10-05&d2=2025-10-06&endDate=2025-10-06&adults=2&rooms=1&sort=RECOMMENDED&theme=&userIntent=&semdtl=&categorySearch=&useRewards=false&children=&pwaDialog=&daysInFuture&stayLength] Book Your Tour with www.wildalpacaway.com [https://wildalpacaway.com/] and walk with the Alpacas. Learn More about Wild Ireland here [https://wildireland.org/] For live music, check out Blake's Bar [https://share.google/sy41HPwewRZcC7msW] and McGinleys Bar [https://share.google/qcxYPJRsDbtVFkA8u] in Letterkenny, Donegal, Ireland Where to Stay Near Carrick [https://www.expedia.com/Hotel-Search?destination=Carrick%2C%20County%20Donegal%2C%20Ireland®ionId=6170948&latLong=54.65783%2C-8.633306&flexibility=0_DAY&d1=2025-10-05&startDate=2025-10-05&d2=2025-10-06&endDate=2025-10-06&adults=2&rooms=1&typeaheadCollationId=5e5dc62a-c5de-4893-a039-7a15257241a6&sort=RECOMMENDED&theme=&userIntent=&semdtl=&categorySearch=&useRewards=false] Learn More about Glencolmcille Folk Village Here [https://glenfolkvillage.com/] Ireland By Bike [https://www.getyourguide.com/county-donegal-l4647/donegal-coast-1-day-self-guided-electric-bike-tour-t545246/?ranking_uuid=e5de82e1-729d-487d-876c-e5ba416129ac] HELPFUL LINKS & RESOURCES Related Episodes You'll Love: EPISODE 134 - IRELAND’S BEST-KEPT SECRET: WHY DONEGAL SHOULD BE ON YOUR TRAVEL LIST [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2149086431] EPISODE 132 - NORTHERN IRELAND TRAVEL GUIDE: BELFAST, DARK HEDGES, CAUSEWAY COASTAL ROUTE & GIANT’S CAUSEWAY [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2149083313] EPISODE 18: DUBLIN & SOUTHERN IRELAND ROAD TRIP [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2148041172] * Need help planning your Ireland trip? → sunxtravel.com [https://www.sunxtravel.com] * Subscribe for weekly travel deals & destination tips → Travel Deal Insiders [https://sunshinetravelers.com/deals] *  Get Our Ultimate Packing Guide for Traveling Smart and Packing Light + Access to Exclusive Weekly Content here. [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/opt-in-56f0e184-9884-4c9f-934b-ff2d80ac0f1a] *  Don’t waste your precious vacation time with Jet Lag, get Flykitt [http://flykitt.pxf.io/mOZZKO] 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 [https://go.expressvpn.com/c/5619374/1462855/16063]. Follow Sunshine Travelers *  Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/] | YouTube [https://youtube.com/] *   [https://youtube.com/]Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Follow us on  [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs]X @sunshinetrvlrs [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs] *  Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/104020955/admin/dashboard/] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] *  Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.threads.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Connect with us on Threads  [https://www.threads.net/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.pinterest.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371 from https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371

Learn more about tours at IrelandByBike.com [https://www.irelandbybike.com]  Donegal Coast 1 Day Self-guided Electric Bike Tour [https://getyourguide.stay22.com/sunshinetravelers/urNFgFdDcu] 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 culture where fiddle music and friendly welcomes are part of everyday life. If you’ve ever wanted to explore Ireland beyond the usual highlights, this episode is your invitation. Donegal offers something rare: a landscape as dramatic as its culture is warm. Whether you cycle with Seamus, hike along the cliffs, or sip a pint at a music session, you’ll find an Ireland that still feels wild, authentic, and deeply welcoming. In this episode of the Sunshine Travelers Podcast, we slow down to savor Donegal’s unique spirit with local guest Seamus Gallagher, who runs Ireland by Bike with his wife, Nora, in the village of Carrick. Their self-guided cycling tours connect travelers to Donegal’s stunning landscapes and small villages—but Seamus’ stories go far beyond the bike. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: * Why Donegal remains one of Ireland’s least-visited—and most authentic—counties * The secret behind Donegal’s distinct fiddle music and Gaelic dialect * What it’s like to cycle to Sliabh Liag Cliffs, which rival the Cliffs of Moher * The difference between e-bikes in Ireland and the U.S.—and why pedal-assist makes exploring easier * Hidden gems like Granny Valley and Glencolmcille  * Tips for catching a traditional pub session * Gaelic phrases like Céad Míle Fáilte (“100,000 welcomes”) and Sláinte (“cheers”) * Why staying in family-run B&Bs creates the most meaningful connections * How slowing down—walking, cycling, and lingering—leads to the richest travel experiences  Learn more about tours at IrelandByBike.com [https://www.irelandbybike.com]  Other Episodes You’ll Love: * Episode 132 - Northern Ireland Travel Guide: Belfast, Dark Hedges, Causeway Coastal Route & Giant’s Causeway [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2149083313] * Episode 18: Dublin & Southern Ireland Road Trip [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2148041172] * Episode 113 - Our Experience Walking Through Umbria Italy with MACS Adventure [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2149042105] Resources & Links  *  Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders [https://sunshinetravelers.com/deals] — 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. [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/opt-in-56f0e184-9884-4c9f-934b-ff2d80ac0f1a] *  Don’t waste your precious vacation time with Jet Lag, get Flykitt [http://flykitt.pxf.io/mOZZKO] 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 [https://go.expressvpn.com/c/5619374/1462855/16063]. Follow Sunshine Travelers *  Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/] | YouTube [https://youtube.com/] *   [https://youtube.com/]Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Follow us on  [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs]X @sunshinetrvlrs [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs] *  Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/104020955/admin/dashboard/] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] *  Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.threads.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Connect with us on Threads  [https://www.threads.net/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.pinterest.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371 from https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371

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 near Dunluce Castle, and a quiet seaside stay in Portrush. We also share how we plan flexible first-day detours, what to pack, and a new Irish tradition we’re determined to master: splitting the G. * Don’t waste your precious vacation time with jet lag. Get [http://flykitt.pxf.io/mOZZKO] Flykitt [http://flykitt.pxf.io/mOZZKO] and watch Jet Lag disappear! * Learn how to drive in the UK [https://www.tripiamo.com/a/2147527843/QZvsqhzT] and Ireland [https://www.tripiamo.com/a/2147831907/QZvsqhzT] before your trip with Tripiamo!  WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE * A jet lag game plan that actually works (hint: fresh air and movement, not naps) * Why Cave Hill is the perfect first stop en route to Belfast * Where to stay and eat around central Belfast (plus night photo spots) * Self-drive tips for the Causeway Coast (and how to dodge crowds) * Dark Hedges photography advice, and a quieter “hidden gem” at Kinbane Castle  * How to visit Giant’s Causeway without the crush—timing, trails, and parking * Golden-hour shooting near castle ruins along the coast * Morning wander at Mussenden Temple (National Trust) and nearby ruins * Practical packing: layers, waterproofs, walking sticks, and camera tips  Resources & Links  *  Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders [https://sunshinetravelers.com/deals] — 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. [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/opt-in-56f0e184-9884-4c9f-934b-ff2d80ac0f1a] *  Protect your privacy, boost your security, and keep your browsing data safe with Express VPN. Plus, get 3 months free with a yearly plan [https://go.expressvpn.com/c/5619374/1462855/16063]. Follow Sunshine Travelers *  Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/] | YouTube [https://youtube.com/] *   [https://youtube.com/]Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Follow us on  [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs]X @sunshinetrvlrs [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs] *  Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/104020955/admin/dashboard/] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] *  Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.threads.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Connect with us on Threads  [https://www.threads.net/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.pinterest.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371 from https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371

Thinking about booking an Alaska cruise but unsure which ship to choose, whether Glacier Bay is worth it, or how to pick the right excursions? In this episode, we break down everything you really need to know before you go. We answer the most searched questions about Alaska cruises, from choosing between megaships and smaller vessels to understanding which cruise lines actually have permits to enter Glacier Bay National Park. Plus, we share highlights from our own Holland America voyage aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam—including a floatplane excursion to Taku Lodge, scenic cruising, and tips for making the most of your time at sea. WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE: * Ship Size Matters: Pros and cons of megaships vs. mid-size and expedition vessels * Who Gets Into Glacier Bay: The 6 cruise lines with special access (and why it matters) * Scenic Cruising Tips: What to expect in Glacier Bay & College Fjord * Cruise Line Insights: Why we chose Holland America (Nieuw Amsterdam) * Entertainment & Staff Highlights: From magicians to activity directors * Dining Tips: Set dining vs. flexible—how to request your preferred setup * Port Guide: What to do in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway * Excursion Spotlight: Our top picks * Wildlife Watch: What to expect (and why sunshine can actually reduce sightings) * Junior Ranger Program: Yes, even on a cruise! * Our Tip: Is a balcony stateroom is worth it in Alaska? Resources & Links  EXCURSION HIGHLIGHT: TAKU LODGE VIA FLOATPLANE FROM JUNEAU [https://www.viator.com/tours/Juneau/Taku-Lodge-Feast-and-5-Glacier-Seaplane-Discovery/d941-110048P1?pid=P00237338&uid=U00632111&mcid=58086¤cy=USD] - BOOKABLE VIA CRUISE LINE OR BOOK DIRECT HERE [https://www.viator.com/tours/Juneau/Taku-Lodge-Feast-and-5-Glacier-Seaplane-Discovery/d941-110048P1?pid=P00237338&uid=U00632111&mcid=58086¤cy=USD], WHETHER YOU ARE ON A CRUISE OR NOT  *  Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders [https://sunshinetravelers.com/deals] — 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. [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/opt-in-56f0e184-9884-4c9f-934b-ff2d80ac0f1a] *  Don’t waste your precious vacation time with Jet Lag, get Flykitt [http://flykitt.pxf.io/mOZZKO] 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 [https://go.expressvpn.com/c/5619374/1462855/16063]. Follow Sunshine Travelers *  Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/] | YouTube [https://youtube.com/] *   [https://youtube.com/]Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Follow our travels on TikTok @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Follow us on  [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs]X @sunshinetrvlrs [https://x.com/sunshinetrvlrs] *  Connect with us on LinkedIn @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.linkedin.com/company/104020955/admin/dashboard/] *   [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog]Get travel tips and follow our travels on Instagram: @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] *  Connect with us on Threads @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.threads.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Connect with us on Threads  [https://www.threads.net/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  See our travel videos on YouTube @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@sunshinetravelerspodcast] *  Save our travel ideas on Pinterest @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.pinterest.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/] Music: This Acoustic Happy Music by https://pixabay.com/users/the_mountain-3616498/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371 from https://pixabay.com/music//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=129371