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The CEOs of Delta and United just admitted on earnings calls that prices aren't coming down — even if fuel costs drop. Travel expert Mark Murphy exposes the tiered pricing scam hiding your real costs, reveals how to stretch your miles further by pairing them with a travel agent, breaks down the Booking.com hack that's targeting your vacation bookings RIGHT NOW, and shares the budget travel secrets most people never think of. Dude ranches. Homeport cruising. Shoulder season hacks. Your next vacation doesn't have to break the bank — if you know what the airlines and hotels don't want you to know.

Gas prices, TSA funding, Florida tourism numbers, Disney's pricing strategy, and the best-value destination most Americans overlook. Mark Murphy sets the record straight.

This week: are airlines lying about why they're raising baggage fees, why a TV anchor has travel advisors furious, and what it actually costs to sail to Europe instead of fly.

Plus: the visa bond Reddit meltdown, Britain doubling down on an energy policy that's failing, and the California wealth exodus nobody's talking about honestly.

The proposed ESTA social media policy is making headlines — but the real story is the double standard. We break down what the U.S. is actually proposing, what Europe is already doing, and why the travel industry is only speaking up about one of them.

Mark Murphy breaks down everything happening in travel right now — and doesn't hold back.This week: TSA lines are actually getting shorter (here's proof), ICE deployed to airports and what's really going on, the San Francisco arrest the media misrepresented, Delta tells Congress to get in line like everyone else, United's new Relax Row seating, the LaGuardia crash op-ed that missed the mark, Chicago's new 19% hotel tax and what it means for tourism, and the British grandmother story The Guardian ran without mentioning the most important facts.If you're a traveler, a travel agent, or anyone who's tired of getting half the story — this one's for you.🎙️ Subscribe on your favorite podcast app | Follow us on social | TravelTube.com#Travel #TravelNews #TSA #AirportLines #TravelAgents #TravelTube

The government shutdown has hit 30 days — and now TSA no-call rates are hitting 50% in Houston and 30% in New Orleans. Mark breaks down who's to blame, what it means for your next flight, and what you can do about it. Plus: will rising oil prices spike your airfare? (Hint: it depends on who's hedged.) Then — AI won't kill travel agents, and here's why the internet didn't either. And finally, Mark fires back at TikTok commenters defending Las Vegas prices: three meals and one drink for two people = $400. The math doesn't lie.

Fresh off a weekend wedding in Pennsylvania, we're diving into one of our favorite topics: making travel work for your life and your budget. Whether you're hitting the road in an RV, checking into a classic resort, or setting sail on a river cruise, there's never been more creative ways to explore the world.We kick things off with a look at the rise of short, close-to-home getaways — a trend that's been building for decades and exploded during and after COVID. Think of them as reset buttons: quick escapes that shake off the stress of everyday life without draining your bank account.Speaking of road trips, we revisit the RV boom that took off during the pandemic and where things stand today. From personal experience navigating the Keys in a camper van to pulling up at the iconic Casa Marina in Key West, we share what RV and van travel actually looks like on the ground.Then we shift gears to one of the fastest-growing segments in travel right now — river cruising. Why are more travelers choosing rivers over oceans? We break down the appeal and map out the possibilities, from the waterways of Europe, Africa, and Asia to right here in the USA — including a stunning Pacific Northwest route that traces the historic journey of Lewis and Clark.

This week on TravelTube, Mark Murphy cuts through the noise on four hot topics: the viral Tampa Airportpajama ban (spoiler: it was fake), the real reason Las Vegas tourism is tanking(hint: it's $85 steaks and $25 mini-bar waters, not tariffs), what the U.S.-Iran conflict means for your travel plans, and the "genius"pizza hack that racked up 13 million views — and whether it actually deserves the hype. Straight talk, no spin, all travel.

Mark Murphy sits down with Peter Liciaga — former Broadway performer, martial arts master, cancer survivor, and founder of the Living Strong Community. Peter shares his remarkable journey from the streets of the Bronx to the stage, the dojo, and beyond, and why he believes you're never too broken, beat, old, or bruised to live strong. If you're a travel professional looking for a mindset edge — or just someone who needs a dose of real inspiration — this one's for you.🔗 Join the Living Strong Community: Livingstrongtribe.com

This week: Southwest seating drama, a family who missed their Carnival cruise, how politics is killing tourism, and — can you really lose your TSA PreCheck for protesting? Mark Murphy breaks it all down and makes the case (again) for using a travel agent.

A luxury travel agent shares her insights on undiscovered parts of Italy, along with some incredible 5 star Caribbean Resorts. Belize, the Cayman Islands, Curacao, and more!

Travel expert Mark Murphy (TravelTube.com) and Scott Lara (MilitaryFares.com, The Cruise Genius) discuss the evolving travel landscape and share expert insights for travel agents and consumers.Key Topics Covered:Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort Review: Scott shares his recent experience at the newly opened Family Selection property in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, highlighting the kids clubs, TRS adults-only amenities, and spectacular dining options like La Bohème and Chic CabaretSafety in the Caribbean: Both hosts address common misconceptions about travel safety in destinations like the Dominican Republic, emphasizing the importance of common sense over media sensationalismTravel Agent Resources: Discussion on the value of peer-to-peer knowledge sharing among travel professionals in today's digital-first booking environmentAirline Industry Changes: Scott shares a frustrating JetBlue seating experience and valuable lessons about airline revenue managementScam Alert: Important warning about fake customer service accounts on Twitter/X targeting travelers seeking helpBucket List Destinations: Brief discussion of exotic locations including Bora Bora, Belize, and CubaPerfect for travel agents looking to stay informed and travelers seeking insider knowledge from industry experts.

Grab Your Ass With Both Hands…Oh wait, we’re going to talkabout airline seating…where will you weigh in on some of the changes?  A new airline is offering pet friendly traveloptions. Your biggest pet peeve when it comes to flying?  And Some can’t see the forest for thetrees…travel agent message example…

With a winter storm set to wreak travel havoc, what should a traveler do? How MN chaos is fueling a media circus that is damaging inbound travel to the USA, while the travel industry leaders stay mum. What is travel news?

Hilton in the line of fire, Chipotle, Venezuela/Central America, 2026 Travel Predictions, top Destinations, Travel reward programs, and a way to find your next impulse trip…on a budget.

Too many people jump on X and other platforms to immediately jump to a conclusion, before having a single fact. That just happened in MN with the ire being directed at the Hilton Hotels corporate office due to a franchisee's ridiculous approach to gov employees. How bad is flying these days? If you get stuck with another entitled passenger, demanding you give up your set, tell them to take a hike...off a wing, ideally. That and more news of the week on TravelTube.com!

The US is getting ready to institute new entry requirements for tourists, while the EU and the UK put similar ones in this year and before. Some are upset with proposed rules that can have CBP accessing years of social media posts, and more, but that's not something that will impact the vast majority of travelers.Mark Murphy breaks it all down in this week's episode

Wow, a short clip of last week's interview with an advisor went viral on TikTok, which showed just how many people think travel agents are dead. wiht over 130 comments and growing, I thought I'd address the reality and point out just how clueless so many are.I'd say it surprised me, but that would be a lie. You see, despite decades of travel associations tied to building up the travel agency channel and awareness for it, they've failed miserably. But to cut them some slack, I'd bet that 90% of those sharing the most clueless posts are the same people that still think the Covid vaccine works.

Is the luxury travel market slowing down? Nope. Where are the affluent going, and what's driving it? Listen to Becky, of My Bella Travels share her insights on this market segment and why it's still roaring.

Disney just launched their newest ship, the Disney Destiny, and it's even better than you may have thought. Kim Anwar, owner of Magic Family Getaways, sailed just a couple of days ago and shares her thoughts with Mark Murphy.

The shutdown continues, but it's not affecting everyone...yet. Travel mistakes that I've made, as well as one that cost a family thousands of dollars. Think twice before you pack some edibles or a vape on an overseas trip, as it might land you in jail. And finally, why are Canadians so obsessed with Trump when it comes to visiting the USA?

Imagine getting off your cruise ship on a deserted island, only to be left behind when the ship departs. An 80 year old woman died because of it. Plus, the airline seat recline debate and key travel tips from travel agents/advisors.

With the aging of the baby boomers, the largest segment of the population, comes the desire to travel. The problem? As people age, they have more issues when it comes to mobility and exploring the world.Mike Clapper is pushing the industry to be more inclusive and aware of the opportunity in understanding and preparing for the needs of these travelers.

A lot of 'experts' have declared the death of #travelagents, from the introduction of online travel agencies like Expedia to the advent of the internet. Will they finally be right?

Will the government shutdown affect your travel? Maybe, but issues aren't widespread. Why are Canadians so triggered by memes and jokes while Americans laugh about them when they are the target? MSM is starting to pick up on the price of travel in the USA and Reddit is doing the same. Is it really cheaper to go overseas versus staying in the USA when traveling? YES, it is...almost every single time. Secure your data and

People always ask me about the best way to book travel, and when I mention a travel agent / travel advisor, they don't seem to 'get it'. Those who do, know, and John Walters is one of them.I interviewed him about the trip and what made it so memorable.

In this episode Murphy covers the growing discontent with those resort fees, how AI is an enabler best used by travel advisors and travel tips to keep you safe and secure on the road.

Another week and another article, seemingly pointing to Trump as the reason why international inbound travel to the USA is down. This time it's a couple of CEO's in travel being quoted by the same author, and one that needs some TDS therapy.I delve into that, the $15,000 visa bond program, taxation on travelers reaching ridiculous levels, and that fee we all love to hate...and for good reason...the resort fee.

If you ever wanted to build a successful travel agency/advisor business, this is a can't miss episode! Adrienne Brown of Breathless Getaways provides real world examples of how she used her downtime during Covid to set the table for her current success.Even seasoned sellers of travel will benefit by tuning in, as you can always grab a nugget of wisdom and apply it to your situation.

A small company that shows travelers how they can do more than just experience a destination. Hands Up Holidays (https://handsupholidays.com/ ) demonstrates how a focus on philanthropy, coupled with travel, can pay dividends for those who give and those who receive.It's an interesting approach and one that is making a difference in the lives of people in some of the most impoverished situations imaginable.

In this episode the host takes on the feedback from last week's POD, the one that stated, with actual facts, that travel from Canada to the USA isn't down because of tariffs or even Trump.Did they even listen to it? The answer, based on many of their responses, is NO. It's akin to saying that the Bible isn't real, without ever reading it for themselves.No wonder these people get led around like sheep during covid.

Journalism is more like activism these days, and the travel industry isn't immune. Instead of focusing on the data and actual facts, some resort to hyperbolic statements and accusations that don't hold up to even the most basic inquiries.In this episode, Mark Murphy breaks down the numerous examples of just how far off the industry is, or at least this author, on what's actually at the root of their problems when it comes to travel from Canada. And it isn't Trump, despite the hyperbolic and breathless attempts to paint it that way.

Yes, value in luxury travel can still be found, you just have to look for it in new places that you may not have considered in the past.

I keep hearing travel agents talking about Ntaba African Safaris so I reached out to Robin John Mountain, one of the founders, to find out why his 20 year old company is up to...and why these travel experts are so keen on using his services.

Are Syria, Iraq, Libya or Haiti on your travel plans? For almost 100% of us, that's a NO. Why are travelers not considering travel to the USA? It's not what you might think.Panicans on a Delta flight lose their minds when a co-pilot gets arrested after landing in San Francisco. They're more worried about the individual getting arrested than the fact that he's a potential criminal.

This week, you get just me talking about the latest travel news and my take on it, including some persistent fake news that keeps resurfacing. TravelTube.com is the platform that features travel advisors, their insights, and product reviews.

Abbey Johnson is a teacher who loves Disney, and sells a lot of it, with the help of her colleagues who have discovered the same. By working collectively, they effectively manage to juggle both careers, while delivering some magic for the families the work with.This is her story and how she is making it happen.

After 19 years you can finally keep your shoes on when you go through airport security. Is it a miracle? Sort of, considering the stupidity behind the process you've been traveling with for almost two decades. Can we do a welfare check on some of the people who think they might get deported to El Salvador's infamous prison, just for traveling to the USA for vacation? Mental illness abounds!

Ever thought about the ultimate luxury travel experience? How about visiting all 7 continents, on a single trip? After shifting from selling corporate travel, to selling leisure, Cessy Meacham shares her favorite destinations and how she sells them.

Europe is hot and Americans can't seem to get enough. What is driving this trend? Frankie Blankenship, a UK native and Europe travel expert provides her insight.

Rob and Kerri Stuart have built their agency business by focusing on Disney initially, but now have expanded into different segments including river cruises and more. They do this via their 150+ IC's with a focus on hands on training.

A native of India, who spent her early years living in Africa, now sells these destinations with an 'insider' perspective. Here's her take on selling travel to these exotic locales.

Raylene Coogan, a medical technician who sells travel part time, proves you CAN do both and succeed. She's passionate about family travel, Disney, Royal Caribbean and more.

Joseph Fehlen got his start selling travel in his small community, only to make the switch to helping others in the space sell more via his role as a BDM for ALG Vacations.

Another travel expert shares the latest insights on an emerging travel hotspot, plus a lot more.

Mark Murphy interviews Frankie Blankenship, a Cruise Planners franchise owner, about her travel business and recent cruise experience. Frankie explains that although Cruise Planners originally focused on cruises, it now offers a broad range of travel products, with her own sales split about 60% cruise and 40% land travel. She highlights Emerald Cruises’ luxury yacht product as a standout experience—featuring a 100-passenger, all-inclusive ship with water toys, elegant design, and a relaxed, flexible itinerary. Frankie shares that smaller cruise products like this appeal to clients who dislike the crowds of large ships and prefer boutique, immersive experiences.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly this week in Travel...If you thought #airline travel was bad, you haven't seen anything like this: woman strips naked and poops on the plane seat. Do people actdually 'fall off' cruise ships? Nah, they're either testing Darwin's theory or they are determined to end it, while on vacation. Inbound tourism is taking a a hit, but what's the reason why? It's not what the media is saying.

Mark Murphy, host of TravelTube.com, interviewed Shannon Bonadurer, a dedicated travel advisor and agency owner, who shares insights about Royal Caribbean cruise ships (particularly Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas), Universal's Epic Universe theme park, and tips for travel agents. Shannon is known for her passion and dedication to the travel industry—Mark notes she even continued selling travel from her hospital bed during a recent stay.

Scott Lara, owner of the Cruise Genius, shares insights on #cruises, #marketing and building a personal brand.