Episode 145: Peak Vacation Nerd...Literally!

We’re not exaggerating when we say this one has altitude. Mark joins the show live from the top of Tower Butte in Page, Arizona, after a helicopter ride drops him onto a massive sandstone summit with 360-degree desert views and a Starlink connection holding it all together. The setting is wild, but the goal is practical: help you plan a better trip, avoid common booking mistakes, and spot travel deals that actually move the needle. We start with travel news you can use, including a data-driven look at the best airports in the world and why Salt Lake City is the only US airport to crack the top 10. We also talk candidly about Spirit Airlines flagging financial uncertainty and what that can mean for travelers who like to book ahead. Then we shift into a trend we’re seeing everywhere: a growing appetite for US-based guided tours that feel easy, information-rich, and surprisingly fresh even when the destinations are “close to home.” Mark breaks down what makes a Globus escorted tour valuable on the Canyon Country Adventure from Phoenix to Las Vegas, including stops like Sedona, the Grand Canyon South Rim, Page, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. We also share a listener promotion that can save up to $1,000 on Globus tours worldwide. After that, it’s time for cruise headlines: Princess Cruises unveiling its 2027 Alaska season, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas entering the Icon-class spotlight, and MSC’s family-friendly push from Galveston with sharp pricing. We close with an MSC Cruises offer for 30% off sailings and kids sail free (taxes and fees still apply). If you like smart travel planning, real pricing, and honest guidance from experienced travel advisors, subscribe to Inside Travel Talk, share this with a friend who needs a vacation, and leave us a review so more travelers can find the show.This episode of The Vacation Nerd Podcast and Radio Show is presented by Rampage Rental & Repair!  Headed to St. George, Utah? Get out and RIDE! Rent or buy your Ebike at Rampage Rental & Repair—or get your own bike tuned up and trail-ready.Cruise Snow Canyon, ride the Virgin River Trail, or explore Kayenta.Reserve your ebike ride today! Call 435-767-2003 or book at RampageRentalRepair.com.Rampage Rental & Repair—gear up, get out, and RIDE! Support the showThank you for taking the time to listen to the show.  There are literally thousands of podcasts from which you can choose, yet you listened to this show.The entire purpose of this podcast is to help people plan and book their next vacation or give listeners ideas of where they might consider going on vacation next.  Our goal is to help our listeners live their lives deliberately and intentionally.  You only get one shot at life so you might as well make it count.  Make memories with those that matter most to you.TAKE ACTION:  Quit talking about going on vacation, just do it.  If you want more information about any of the destinations we discussed during the show, or have your own custom vacation in mind, I can help you.  Please call, text, or email me.  Here's my contact information:Patrick WiscombeCell/Text:  (801) 874-7717Email:  [email protected] Vacation Nerd (Audio Podcast):  https://www.thevacationnerd.co/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheVacationNerdFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/patrick.wiscombeInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/patrick.wiscombeThreads:  https://www.threads.com/@pa...