Episode 156 - What I Found When I Returned to Hong Kong After 20 Years + Our 2 Day Itinerary

Kuvaus

Hong Kong was the final stop on our month-long journey through Asia, following our cruise from Hobart to Singapore. For Scott, it was a return after nearly 20 years. For Melissa, it was a first visit. What we both discovered was a city that felt surprisingly familiar, efficient, and easy to navigate. In this episode, we explore Hong Kong through its world-class public transportation system, share our memorable food experiences, reflect on cultural familiarity, and balance the intensity of the city with a day at Disney. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/disclosure-and-disclaimer]. Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee [https://coff.ee/sunshinetravelerspodcast] ☕️ In this episode, you’ll discover: * Why Hong Kong felt far more familiar than expected—despite major political changes * How Hong Kong’s public transportation compares to London’s Underground * Riding the MTR, the iconic Star Ferry, and the historic “ding ding” trams * Why the tram ride to Victoria Peak is a must-do (especially at night) * Navigating the city easily using the Octopus card vs. tap-to-pay * A memorable first-night meal at a Michelin-star Cantonese restaurant—and why it felt universal * A reminder that shrimp really does show up in everything in Asia * Experiencing Hong Kong Disneyland as a cultural contrast to the city * Why character meet-and-greets were busier than ride lines at the park * How locals approach Disney differently, especially when it comes to photos and costumes * Where they stayed and why location matters in a fast-moving city * A Sunshine Travelers advisory on staying at the Conrad Hong Kong * How many days you really need in Hong Kong—and when to add an extra day * Real-world travel hiccups and why patience is an essential packing item * Why Hong Kong turned out to be the perfect place to end a long journey Resources & Links * You can buy Disneyland Hong Kong Tickets here, [https://klook.tp.st/fSv23fC7]and then you download the Disneyland Hong Kong app, load your ticket, and then make a park reservation for the day you want to visit. Keep your electronic park ticket handy, though, because you'll need it to scan into the park * Hear our Full Recap of Disneyland Hong Kong Here: Episode 149 - Disneyland Hong Kong: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go: Our Experience [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2149123596] * Want curated travel deals every week? Subscribe to Travel Deal Insiders [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/newsletters/travel-deal-insiders/subscribe] — 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/] * Follow us on Facebook @sunshinetravelerspodcast [https://www.facebook.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

Episode 165 - Atlas Ocean Voyages Review: World Voyager Antarctica Expedition

Episode 165 Atlas Ocean Voyages Review: Is the World Voyager Worth It for Antarctica? We just returned from one of the most bucket-list trips on the planet, an Antarctica expedition cruise aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages World Voyager, and we're breaking down everything: the ship, the staterooms, the food, the service, the expedition experience, and whether the $10,000–$15,000 price tag is actually worth it. This wasn't just a cruise review. This was one of our hosted group trips through Sunshine Travelers Experiences, so we lived this voyage alongside a group that had been planning it for years. We were intentional about every choice, ship size, itinerary, and overall value, and Atlas Ocean Voyages delivered across all three. If you're researching Antarctica expedition cruises, trying to decide between small ships vs. large ships, or wondering whether Atlas Ocean Voyages is the right fit for you, this episode is the deep dive you've been looking for. What We Cover in This Episode Why Ship Size Is Everything for Antarctica With Antarctica's strict rule that only 100 passengers can be on land at any one time, choosing a ship under 200 passengers changes the entire experience. On the World Voyager (153 passengers on our voyage), everyone gets to land on each expedition. Larger ships in the 200–499 passenger range technically qualify for Antarctica, but the rushed logistics mean you spend more time waiting than exploring. The Boarding Experience From the moment we arrived in Ushuaia, the experience felt like boarding a private yacht. Luggage was whisked directly to the ship, champagne and canapés were waiting in the lounge, and we were escorted to our stateroom with no long lines, no chaos. Stateroom Breakdown: Horizon Stateroom vs. Balcony We booked the Horizon Stateroom, which features a floor-to-ceiling window that lowers halfway, giving you open-air views from the comfort of your cabin. In Antarctica's cold, this turned out to be the perfect choice over a balcony. The rooms also come with: - Oversized rain-head shower with body jets and a bench (no tiny cruise ship shower here) - Premium L'Occitane*bath amenities - Ultra-soft bedding, plush pillows, robes and slippers - Mini fridge stocked with your preferred beverages at no extra charge - Chaise lounge sofa, desk, and satellite TV with a curated film library *Note: Starting April 1, 2026, the Horizon Stateroom is being reclassified as a Junior Suite and will include Butler service. Daily Life & Expedition Structure Every day was structured around two expeditions, typically one Zodiac tour and one shore landing. Passengers were divided into two rotating groups (ours was the "Weddell Seals"), so no single group always had priority. Plans changed constantly based on weather and ice conditions, and flexibility is key, but the expedition team handled every pivot seamlessly. The boot room (mud room) was central to the experience. Atlas provided parkas rated for extreme cold, rubber boots, and cleaned your gear between every landing to protect Antarctica's ecosystem. You keep the parka at the end of your voyage. Food & Dining: Better Than You'd Expect Dining was consistently one of the strongest parts of the ship. Here's what's included: - Main Dining Room: Buffet-style breakfast and lunch plus a rotating themed set menu for dinner (Italian, Asian, etc.) with multiple courses - Paula's Pantry- Counter service from 6:30 a.m. serving pastries, coffee, sandwiches, and daily rotating snacks - Afternoon Tea: Daily in the lounge with an extensive Kusmi Tea selection - 24-Hour Room Service: Full menu available any time — the midnight burger was excellent - All alcohol included: Beer, wine, and spirits all day, every day (except before excursions abd they enforce a strict no-alcohol policy before Zodiac tours and landings) - Fresh bread, pastries, and desserts baked daily by one dedicated baker and two pastry chefs using European-sourced ingredients What's Included in the Price At $10,000–$15,000+ per person (shoulder seasons like November and March on the lower end; peak and suites on the higher end), here's what's covered: the pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia, your flight to Ushuaia, the day tour before embarkation, all meals, all beverages (including alcohol and specialty coffees), gratuities, parkas, water bottles, and all expedition activities. Optional add-ons include kayaking, overnight camping on the continent, the Chef's Table, and spa treatments. Service: Nearly 1-to-1 Staff-to-Guest Ratio With approximately 130 crew members serving 153 guests, the service was personal in a way that's simply impossible on a mega-ship. Within a few days, staff knew every passenger's name. Our waiters remembered our preferences from the first meal. Gratuities are included, but the culture of going above and beyond was evident everywhere. The Expedition Team Sixteen experts from 11 countries — glaciologists, marine biologists, geologists, wildlife specialists — led every shore excursion with genuine enthusiasm. Sign up for a dinner with an expedition team member if you can; it's complimentary and completely worth it. Onboard Highlights You Wouldn't Expect - Crew Talent Show: One of the best evenings of the trip. Staff who you'd only seen behind the counter transformed into dancers, musicians, and a Rubik's cube speed-solver — all live. - Galley Tour: Met the executive chef and toured the immaculate kitchen — complimentary, not an upcharge. - Open Bridge Access: Visit the ship's bridge and talk with the captain and expedition leader — no extra fee. - Ship Stabilizers: Made a real difference in comfort during Drake Passage crossings. - Spa & Sauna: The sauna and heated loungers with panoramic windows overlooking Antarctica were unforgettable. Basic access is included; spa treatments are extra. Who Is This Ship Right For? The Atlas Ocean Voyages World Voyager is for travelers who want an immersive, destination-first expedition, not entertainment-heavy cruise-ship nightlife. Expect educational lectures, wildlife encounters, and an intimate atmosphere rather than big Broadway-style shows. If you want everyone on the ship to know your name by day two, and you care more about getting *on* Antarctic soil than watching it from a deck far above the water, this is your ship. Atlas also sails Arctic itineraries(summer), Mediterranean routes (summer), and a few Caribbean itineraries during transitions, and much of what we've described (small ship intimacy, included inclusions, exceptional service) applies to those voyages too. Resources & Links Mentioned - See our Full YOUTUBE video Atlas Ocean Voyages World Voyager — Full Ship & Cabin Tour 2026 [https://youtu.be/EF3DwoSQfRM?si=zSuqfY84tSr5wR4e] - Book a trip or inquire about group travel: sunshinetravelersexperiences.com [https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/] - Previous episode — Antarctica destination deep dive [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast/episodes/2149179348]: Listen before this one for full context on what to expect on the continent Connect with Us - Instagram & Facebook @SunshineTravelersPodcast - **Leave a 5-star review** on your favorite podcast platform — it helps other travelers find us! Planning an Antarctica expedition cruise and want personalized guidance? Reach out to us directly through sunshinetravelersexperiences.com [https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/] We;ve done the research, and the trip, so you don't have to start from scratch.

24. maalis 202652 min

Episode 155 - How to See Singapore in 36 Hours!

In this episode we share that by only having 24 hours in Singapore puts you in “taste-test mode” — you’re not trying to do everything, you’re trying to feel the city. After disembarking from a cruise (with a few early-morning obstacles), we spent a full day chasing iconic Singapore experiences: kaya toast and local coffee at Ya Kun, the wow-factor of Gardens by the Bay [https://getyourguide.tp.st/gs4dPgVR] (OCBC Skyway, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome), lunch at the famous Lau Pa Sat hawker center, and a festive night at Christmas Wonderland in Supertree Grove. (Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure [https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/disclosure-and-disclaimer].) Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee [https://coff.ee/sunshinetravelerspodcast] ☕️ or using our links whenever you book a trip! We also share where we stayed (Conrad Singapore [https://booking.tp.st/wA5gqNCy]), what we’d do differently next time (food tour, satay, more time), and a key lesson about visiting Jewel Changi Airport — including what no one tells you about early baggage drop and terminal logistics. What You’ll Learn in This Episode • How to plan a Singapore stopover when you only have one day • What’s worth paying for at Gardens by the Bay (and what you can skip) • What to expect at a hawker center without a guide (and how to order smarter) • The truth about durian ice cream (smell, taste, and the after-effects) • Why Jewel Changi Airport can be trickier than it looks (check-in timing + terminals) • Why Singapore is a great gateway for Southeast Asia cruises • How many days you really need to do Singapore right (your sweet spot: 3–4 days) Here's Your 36-Hour Singapore Itinerary Morning (arrival + hotel area) • Cruise disembarkation + immigration e-gates tip: pack a day bag for the final night (toiletries, meds, pajamas, change of clothes, laptop) • Transport tip: Grab is the main ride-hailing app • Breakfast: Ya Kun Kaya Toast (kaya toast + coffee) Late Morning–Afternoon • Gardens by the Bay [https://viator.tp.st/ecE8hdPp] • OCBC Skyway [https://getyourguide.tp.st/cFiY6XL3] (iconic Supertree views and Marina Bay Sands) • Cloud Forest [https://getyourguide.tp.st/cFiY6XL3](Jurassic Park exhibit + indoor waterfall + walkways) • Flower Dome [https://getyourguide.tp.st/cFiY6XL3] (holiday train display and botanical zones) Lunch • Lau Pa Sat hawker center • Tip: order small items from multiple stalls instead of one big dish • Reminder: clear your tray — signs warn of fines/bans Evening • Evening Light Show at the SuperTree Grove (FREE) or if visiting during the holidays you'll need a ticket to the Christmas Wonderland at Supertree Grove • or see the light and water show in front of Marina Bay Sands Hotel [https://tripadvisor.tp.st/HPzsusPG] - if you're not familiar check out the Marina Bay Sands episode on Amazing Hotels Departure Day Add-On • Jewel Changi Airport waterfall + photo spots • Reality check: early bag drop depends on airline desk hours • Terminal note: you may have to change terminals by bus/taxi, depending on where you depart Quick Tips • Don’t rely on same-day ticket luck if you only have one day — book Gardens by the Bay tickets ahead. • If you’re choosing between Supertree Observatory and OCBC Skyway, you probably only need one for views. • At hawker centers, go with a plan (or better: take a food tour). If you’re unsure, order a few small things from different stalls. • For Jewel: check your airline’s early check-in hours and your departure terminal before building your timing around it. Where We Stayed Conrad Singapore (Hilton) [https://tripadvisor.tp.st/iDOBIPQB] • Strong location for getting around • Great value (you paid cash because points redemption wasn’t worth it) • Upgrades + Diamond benefits made a big difference • Excellent breakfast (lounge available but you didn’t have time) Best Moments • The first “wow” view from the OCBC Skyway • Cloud Forest: mist, waterfall, and Jurassic Park exhibit • Holiday train display surprise inside Flower Dome • Christmas Wonderland vibes in warm weather • The chance encounter at the airport with fellow cruisers (and the Georgia Bulldog hat moment) What We'd Do Differently Next Time • Add a food tour (especially for hawker centers) • Try the satay you skipped at Lau Pa Sat • Make time for Raffles Hotel + Singapore Sling • Go up to Marina Bay Sands [https://tripadvisor.tp.st/HPzsusPG] rooftop bar / viewing area • Plan a longer stay: 3–4 days to slow down and go beyond highlights If Singapore is on your list — whether as a stopover or a longer stay — we’d love to help you plan it in a way that fits how you actually like to travel. 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] * 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

13. tammi 202645 min

Episode 156 - What I Found When I Returned to Hong Kong After 20 Years + Our 2 Day Itinerary

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