63 episodes
Sunshine Travelers Podcast Scott and Melissa Barronton
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- Society & Culture
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5.0 • 10 Ratings
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Where do I even start planning a trip?
How can I afford to travel?
Where should I go?
When is the best time to visit?
What should I pack?
What should I do when I get there?
If you are looking for travel ideas to add to your bucket list, ways to to PLAN, AFFORD and make travel EASIER or you just want to live vicariously through our travels this is the show for you.
Sunshine Travelers Podcast is a travel podcast hosted by husband and wife duo Scott and Melissa Barronton where they share their passion for travel alongside actionable tips from their person travel experiences. They have turned their dreams of travel into a reality and want to help you do the same.
Hosts Scott and Melissa bring you strategies, planning and packing tips, and inspirational stories that can help YOU design your dream bucket list travel adventures. As well as real actionable travel advice that will leave you feeling inspired and prepared for your next adventure.
Along with sharing their experiences, they interview others who also share their travel wanderlust and will share their experiences to ensure you are both inspired and prepared for your next travel adventure.
If you want to learn more about traveling or just want to live vicariously through our travel experiences. No matter where you fall along that journey, get ready to hear about our first hand experiences as we visit some of the most amazing places on earth.
Press Play on the Sunshine Travelers podcast to get travel ideas, learn with us where to go, how to get there, what to do when you arrive and what travel essentials to bring along with you!
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Episode 62 - Is a Disney VIP Tour Worth It?
This week, we will be discussing an option for anyone seeking a unique experience when visiting one or more of the Disney parks - the VIP Tour at Disney. While the cost may seem prohibitive for many, we will also explore some options that could make this experience more affordable for most people. So, put on your Mickey ears, and let’s get started on our VIP Tour at Disney.
Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.
VIP tours can be booked 60 days in advance of the start day of your trip - if you are staying on Disney property. otherwise, 60 days from the day of the tour. The number to call to make a VIP tour reservation is 407-560-4033. VIP tours cannot be booked online.
Here's a list of the other tours we discussed:
Disney's Keys to the Kingdom Tour Magic Kingdom Park Unlock fascinating history, gain backstage access to legendary hidden areas and enjoy lunch. EPCOT Seas Adventures – Dolphins in Depth Make reservations now for this fascinating and intimate 2-hour dolphin encounter limited to a group of no more than 8 Guests per day. EPCOT Seas Adventures – DiveQuest Immerse yourself in a scuba experience with guaranteed calm seas, no current, unlimited visibility, and incredible marine life and coral.
Behind the SeedsIf you like Living with the Land, you may enjoy Behind the Seeds!
Specialty CruisesCharter a private watercraft and set sail on a relaxing specialty cruise from one of the Walt Disney World marinas for Epcot and Magic Kingdom Fireworks.
Wild Africa Trek Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Encounter exotic wildlife on a guided expedition with African-inspired snacks and photo keepsakes. Prices range from $219 to $229—plus tax. Prices vary by date. Savor the Savanna Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Take a private safari tour and enjoy African-inspired tapas, drinks and more.
Caring for Giants Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Get a closer look into the world of our park's majestic African elephants. Up Close with Rhinos Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park Meet these mighty—but gentle—giants in a special viewing area for a wildlife experience like no other!
These tours can be booked online 60 days in advance - you’ll find them under enchanting extras or just search the specific name to book. By phone: (407) 939-7529 Disney Vacation Club Members: (800) 800-9800
Get Our Ultimate Packing Guide for Traveling Smart and Packing Light + Access to Exclusive Weekly Content here.
Find your Perfect Stay at sunshinetravelers.com/booking
Do More with Viator. Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.
Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG
Follow our travels on Facebook
Follow our travels on Instagram
Save our travel ideas on Pinterest
See our travel videos on You Tube
Follow us on X (Twitter)
Music Credit
Music by OYStudio from Pixabay -
Episode 61 - What Are Your Favorite Travel Experiences?
This week we wanted to take an opportunity for our listeners to get to know us a little bit better and share with you some of our favorite experiences from our travels. Join us as we ask each other questions about our travel favorites and see how they match up against the way you would answer these questions. So pack your bags and come along as we uncover some of our favorite things about travel.
Here are the questions we asked each other and now it is your turn to ask your favorite travel companion:
Click here for Printable PDF Link to these questions
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1. What's your all-time favorite travel destination, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?
2. What is your favorite hotel that you have ever stayed in?
3. Do you prefer beach vacations, mountain getaways, or exploring bustling cities?
4. What's the most memorable meal you've ever had while traveling, and where was it?
5. Are you more drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations or popular tourist hotspots?
6. What's your favorite mode of transportation when traveling: plane, train, car, or something else?
7. Do you have a favorite travel memory or experience that always brings a smile to your face when you think about it?
8. Are you an early riser who loves catching sunrises or more of a night owl who enjoys vibrant nightlife scenes?
9. When it comes to accommodations, do you prefer luxurious hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, or perhaps the charm of Airbnb rentals?
10. What's the one item you always make sure to pack when you travel, no matter where you're going?
11. Are you more interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, indulging in adventure activities, or simply relaxing and taking it easy?
12. What's your favorite souvenir or keepsake that you've collected from your travels?
13. How do you like to document your travels: through photography, journaling, or perhaps something else?
14. Are there any specific cultural or historical sites that have left a lasting impression on you during your travels?
15. Do you have a favorite season or time of year for traveling, and if so, why?
16. What's the most breathtaking natural landscape you've ever encountered while traveling?
17. Are there any particular cuisines or dishes from around the world that you absolutely love?
18. How do you approach planning your trips: meticulously organized itinerary or spontaneous adventures?
19. Lastly, what was your best flight experience? What was your worst flight experience?
20. Checked bags or carry-on?
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Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.
Find your Perfect Stay at sunshinetravelers.com/booking
Do More with Viator. Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.
Sign up for free travel deals and exclusive content here.
Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG
Follow our travels on Facebook
Follow our travels on Instagram
Save our travel ideas on Pinterest
See our travel videos on You Tube
Our X (Twitter) Feed
Music Credit
Music by OYStudio from Pixabay -
Episode 60 - The Wild Mississippi
In this episode, we talk to Dean Klingenberg, author of The Wild Mississippi: A State-by-State Guide to the River’s Natural Wonders and podcast host of The Mississippi Valley Traveler, about some ideas for visiting unique locations along The Mississippi River. Dean will share some of his memories from researching the book and give some suggestions of places to visit that you may not be familiar with. So pack your bags and bring your hiking shoes as we travel with Dean down the Mississippi River.
Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.
Get Dean's Book, The Wild Mississippi: A State-by-State Guide to the River’s Natural Wonders
Learn more about travel along the Mississippi River on Dean's website, MississippiValleyTraveler.com
Listen to the Mississippi Valley Traveler Podcast here
Explore Dean's other books, Mississippi Valley Traveler guidebooks & Frank Dodge Mystery Series
Find your Perfect Stay for this trip along the Mississippi River at sunshinetravelers.com/booking
Do More with Viator. Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.
Sign up for free travel deals and exclusive content here.
Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG
Follow our travels on Facebook
Follow our travels on Instagram
Save our travel ideas on Pinterest
See our travel videos on You Tube
Music Credit
Music by OYStudio from Pixabay -
Episode 59 - Visiting Amelia Island: What to Do and See in 2024 & 2025
This week, we are staying close to home while we experience the 59th Annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival on Amelia Island. It has been a while since we did our last episode on Amelia Island, and as usual, some things have changed. Join us as we take you to a few of our favorite places and update you on new places we have discovered, what to see throughout the year, and our favorite times to be on the Island. So pack a bathing suit, towel, beach chair, and your favorite book, and join us on Amelia Island.
Read more about where to stay, what to do, and where to eat on Amelia Island here.
LIsten to our other Amelia Island Epsiode, Episode 14, here
Download our free Amelia Island Guide here.
Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.
Find your Perfect Stay on Amelia Island at sunshinetravelers.com/booking
Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.
Sign up for free travel deals and exclusive content here.
Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG
Follow our travels on Facebook
Follow our travels on Instagram
Save our travel ideas on Pinterest
See our travel videos on You Tube
Music Credit
Music by OYStudio from Pixabay
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Episode 58 - Which Caribbean Island Should You Visit, Aruba or Curacao?
This week we have an exciting episode for you. We recently visited two islands in the Southern Caribbean and wanted to do a comparison of the two. If you’re planning a trip and would like to weigh the pros and cons of each island, this episode is perfect for you. Join us as we debate the merits of Curacao versus Aruba, this or that style?
Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.
Listen to our Aruba Episodes
How to Visit Aruba Both On & Off The Beaten Path
What You Need to Know About Aruba
Listen to our Curaçao Episode here
Discovering Curaçao
Find your Perfect Stay at sunshinetravelers.com/booking
Do More with Viator. Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.
Sign up for free travel deals and exclusive content here.
Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG
Follow our travels on Facebook
Follow our travels on Instagram
Save our travel ideas on Pinterest
See our travel videos on You Tube
Music Credit
Music by OYStudio from Pixabay
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Episode 57: How to Visit Aruba Both On & Off The Beaten Path
In this episode, we are heading to the stunning island of Aruba, located just 20 miles north of Venezuela in the Southern Caribbean. It’s a popular destination for North American travelers who want to soak up the sun and enjoy the sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. While many visitors prefer to stay at the luxurious resorts, we are more interested in exploring the local culture and cuisine. So, pack your bags and join us as we embark on our journey to Aruba.
Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure.
Link to the EZ Raider Tour we loved! Ask for Carlos as your guide!
Other Off road and 4 Wheel Drive Tours on Aruba
After our visit we would say to choose the Aruba Ocean Club over the Aruba Surf Club where we had our room.
You can Visit Flamingo Beach by staying at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
Find your Perfect Stay at sunshinetravelers.com/booking
Do More with Viator. Visit sunshinetravelers.com/viator to book local tours & experiences you’ll remember.
Sign up for free travel deals and exclusive content here.
Read more about this and other travel destinations on our BLOG
Follow our travels on Facebook
Follow our travels on Instagram
Save our travel ideas on Pinterest
See our travel videos on You Tube
Music Credit
Music by OYStudio from Pixabay
Customer Reviews
This is the best travel podcast I’ve ever listened to!
Scott and Melissa’s Sunshine Travelers Podcast is without doubt one of the best travel casts I have ever listened to.
Some podcasts are too technical, some are too cost focused, some are too instructional. Sunshine Travelers is like Goldilocks and the 3 Bears: It’s just right! It is balanced, it’s not trying to sell you anything, it’s just experience, and what they like - and don’t.
Episode 59 (Amelia Island) is my favorite episode so far. Of course I knew about the Amelia Island Classic Car Concourse, but Everything else just sounds delightful. From the dog friendly beaches, to the sea shells, to the easy public beach access, to the info links with where to stay, what to see, and where to eat, it is so useful that I could literally plan my trip to Amelia Island just by listening.
The real showpiece of the Amelia Island episode, one of my all time favorites, is the Isle of 8 Flags Shrimp Festival. Count me in!
And that’s just Episode 59!
I have listened to tips for long travel on airplanes, and trips to so many countries cities, and destinations that now I would not even consider booking a trip before I see if Scott and Melissa have been there!
The information is good, and sometimes great. It’s like an insider’s guide to where to go and what to do.
What keeps me listening though, is how smooth and flowing the episodes are. Scott and Melissa are uniquely different, each with their own perspectives and likes and dislikes. The interaction between them though, and the flow of the podcast is what keeps me coming back for more. The flow of their conversation is just fantastic This is easy listening at it’s best.
This is without doubt a “punch the subscribe button and listen” when a new podcast comes out! Thanks for all the great info, guys! Keep the episodes coming!
Real experiences, great travel tips!
Fantastic podcast… the personal narratives are tremendously helpful in planning your own experiences. Scott and Melissa do a wonderful job of putting all of this together in an interesting and enjoyable podcast. Definitely subscribe and add to your list!
Great Stories!!
Great travel stories guys!! Love living vicariously through these podcast! I feel as I am missing a lot out there. Keep up the great work and adventures! Happy Traveling!
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