What is the top travel app of the 21st century hitting North America by storm?

Tune in to listen to our travel talk discussing a way for you to travel more and spend less.

In this episode, we’ll unpack super cool opportunities, awesome travel savings, and little-known secrets that can turn your dream trips into reality — without draining your bank account.

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or someone craving their first big adventure, this is your go-to resource for stretching your travel dollars further than you ever thought possible.

We’re bringing you interviews with fellow savvy travelers, app success stories, and actionable advice to help you unlock experiences you never imagined you could afford.

WANT YOUR OWN FREE GUEST PASS?

Click here: https://free.traveladvantage.com/TRAVELCHICKMELISSA 

Grab your coffee (or cocktail!) and let’s explore the world together — one deal, one destination, and one memory at a time.

Subscribe now and get ready to travel smarter. Your passport to affordable adventures starts here!

Today I discuss what you, the traveller can expect when booking a Sunwing Vacations package. The integration between Westjet and Sunwing has taken place as of May 29, 2025. Listen up for what to expect onboard the aircraft, while you check in at the airport and the newest partnership with Telus.

Discover all the fantastic fun and amenities onboard Norwegian Prima. Today, Melissa chats with Fatima from Norwegian Cruise Line Canada's sales team. Norwegian Prima has arrived, and her Christening is set to take place in Iceland this SATURDAY, August 27th with Godmother Katy Perry!

To see the promo video visit THIS LINK HERE.

If this excites you and you'd like to join a Singles cruise we have departing this February 2023....CLICK HERE NOW

Ireland is one of the amazing destinations that truly has something for everyone. From the beautiful drives through the country side, to the movie set of Game of Thrones, to the countless pubs and local joints to gather with friends and the incredible UNESCO world sites. 

Today, Melissa interviews Sandra Moffat from Tourism Ireland. Tune in, grab some new ideas and hear about the incredible activities you can enjoy while visiting Ireland. Please visit: https://www.ireland.com

for updated travel info and to begin planning your next Irish getaway. Also, don't forget to check out our solo travel trips listed on our website: www.travelchicks.ca

Cabo San Lucas is a quick and easy short flight from Western Canada major city airports. It has definately sparked the enthusiasts who want to relax, unwind and replenish their soul. On today's show, we have Susie from the Los Cabos tourism board. She shared the web site: https://visitloscabos.travel for the most up to date covid travel requirements. As of right now, all Canadians are welcome to the destiantion with open arms. Cabo is best known for their farm to table experiences, medical tourism and of course the wellness industry.

If you'd love to join our next CABO Solo Getaway, you must book by August 25th to secure your spot for the September 14th departure. DETAILS CAN BE FOUND HERE: https://travelchicks.live/cabo 

Many cruise lines have updated their policies regarding proof of vaccination and vax status. This episode you may want to grab a pen and jot down the different protocols we discuss on today's episode. 

Many Canadians have been booking cruises this year and it is fantastic news that they are decreasing the requirements for boarding beautiful ships. It is definitely creating an uptick in travel bookings.

To read an updated version of these cruise lines, CLICK HERE

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Travel Chicks team at info@travelchicks.ca or visit our website for some fun cruises we have planned coming up that may interest you. www.Travelchicks.ca 

Starting next week, fully-vaccinated travellers entering Canada through Toronto Pearson International Airport will once again be subjected to mandatory random COVID-19 testing. The policy, which was temporary suspended last month amid long lines and delays at airports, will resume on July 19 for travellers arriving by air at Canada's four major Canadian airports in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Toronto.

To read more CLICK HERE.

Interested in planning your next vacation, retreat or family reunion? Send us a note: info@travelchicks.ca

Today, Crystal the Travel Chick and Melissa the Travel Chick bust the myths surrounding travel right now. Get ready to become inspired to start dreaming your reality into existence. 

Though you may hear mixed messages around travelling now, we are here to say it's GO TIME! The travel gates are wide open and many countries and destinations are lifting restrictions. Stay up to date with us here: www.TravelChicks.ca

Contact Crystal directly: crystal@travelchicks.ca

Contact Melissa directly: melissa@travelchicks.ca 

Today, Geralyn the Travel Chick interviews Education First go ahead tours for an inside look into the incredible tours their company offers. We are excited to bring this partnership to you in hopes you'd love to join Geralyn and the travel crew for some exciting trips planned in the future. 

To connect with geralyn, email her Geralyn@travelchicks.ca

At EF Go Ahead Tours, they believe that travel should help make the world better. Travel is a powerful way to foster understanding of and respect for the people, cultures, and places of the world. Ultimately, travel can change the way we think, feel, and act, and therefore has the power to effect tremendous change throughout the globe.

G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip shares the news about Bhutan opening! After 60 years, G Adventures Canada is the first tour operator to bring new travellers to visit Bhutan trail.

Don't miss the NEWEST trend G Adventures is finding with the whole work from home population - this is the NEW WAY OF WORKING in the 20th century. This is the chance of a lifetime to explore, discover and learn about the culture and history of Bhutan.

Want more information, make sure to connect with us at: info@travelchicks.ca Website: www.TravelChicks.ca

In today's interview, I got to interview Ms. Leanne Garrett, a Canadian citizen who departed for Mexico on December 27th. She shares her experience about testing positive with Covid and what steps she took. 

Please be inspired by what she has to say today, and remember to always protect yourself with travel insurance. You can purchase travel insurance here: 

https://bit.ly/bookinsurancenow

The news article released on this, is linked below.

United States officials have showed no signs of easing travel restrictions for Canadians, who are barred from entering the U.S. at land borders despite Canada loosening its entry rules for fully vaccinated Americans.

Nonetheless, the U.S. State Department has gone ahead and lowered the COVID-19 travel advisory for Canada to "Level 2,” reports revealed on Tuesday (Aug 10).

CDC recommended interactive map: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/map-and-travel-notices.html 

To contact Travel Chicks to help you plan your next trip, call 1-866-934-8463

oe email: info@travelchicks.ca

In this exciting episode of Travel Talk with Travel Chicks, host Melissa sits down with Sandra from Tourism Ireland to explore one of the most beloved bucket-list destinations—Ireland! From breathtaking coastal drives along the Wild Atlantic Way to historic castles and the warmth of Irish hospitality, Sandra shares expert insights on must-visit sights, hidden gems, and travel tips, including navigating Ireland by car.

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the Emerald Isle, this episode will give you everything you need to start planning your perfect trip. Learn about the best time to visit, Ireland’s vibrant festivals (including Halloween’s Irish origins!), unique accommodation ideas, and even how to experience the famous Irish pub culture—whether you drink or not! Plus, discover how to join an upcoming Travel Chicks group trip to Ireland in 2025.

Ready to make Ireland a reality? Tune in, get inspired, and don’t forget to fill out our feedback form for a chance to win a $150 Air Canada Vacations voucher!

🎧 Listen now and start planning your Irish adventure! 🇮🇪✨

To read full news article, visit the links below.

Starting Aug. 9, fully vaccinated citizens and permanent residents of the United States will, for the first time in 17 months, be permitted to enter Canada for non-essential travel and skip quarantine.

Eligible visitors must live in the U.S. and be fully vaccinated, with a Health Canada-approved vaccine, for at least 14 days. 

Americans – entering Canada by both land and air – must also show proof of a negative 72-hour molecular COVID-19 test and use the ArriveCAN app, or this online web portal, to upload their vaccination documents.

Those who have recovered from COVID-19, and are eligible to enter Canada, will be allowed to show proof of a positive molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to entering.

Post-arrival COVID-19 tests will still be administered. However, they will be issued on random basis only.

The easing of border rules, part of a phased reopening strategy laid out by the Canadian government, is set to provide some much-needed relief for local tourism businesses that saw staggering declines in customer traffic during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Canadian Mandatory Quarantine info, visit:

https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/isolation?_ga=2.65427624.741489760.1626703513-1332232187.1621614236 

To check and see if you qualify for exemption, visit: https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/covid-vaccinated-travellers-entering-canada#determine-fully 

Listen to the latest Canadian Travel News and expect long lineups at Canadian Border services. According to a recent article published online, Canada’s travel reopening plans may face a roadblock after nearly 9,000 Canadian Border Service Agency (CBSA) workers, on Wednesday (Aug. 4), announced that preparations are underway to begin job action this Friday (Aug. 6).

 

Canada travel restrictions may pose a lengthy and long wait for many Canadians eager to travel. If an agreement is not reached with the Canadian government by Friday, expect to wait in long lineups. Give yourself extra time crossing the border by land, at the airport, and even postal services.

For the full news article visit: https://bit.ly/3rTVdCI  

Today, I interviewed Mr. Michael Sieger, Vice President of Tourism for Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region. For those who live in Alberta, Canada, you may be shocked at what you can discover up north in the province of Alberta. 

There are far more things to do than meets the eye. From locals willing to take you out off the beaten track, to camping, sand duning, wildlife photography, intimate retreats, and much more. Tune in to discover Alberta's backyard. 

To discover all the fun you can have, please visit: https://explorewoodbuffalo.ca/

Absolutely thrilled to welcome Sharon Wilson, Business Development Manager for Palace Resorts. We talked all things new and exciting that's going on over at Palace Resorts and what you can look forward to this winter for travelling to paradise. 

If you loved what you heard, please give it a thumbs up and hit subscribe! Enjoy.

We started off this episode with a good reflection on how to be okay with anxious feelings and let your body feel all emotions. We discuss on how to not let the small things on your routine set you off and affect your day. One of the answers for these reflections is guided meditation. If you don't know where to start, first start taking control of your feelings and letting your body feel them, try a guided mediation. You will see the results of it after a few consistent days.

We introduce and chat with an inspiring guest: Nicole Montez.

• Nicole inspires women to live brave, fearless, and free
• She is a mom of two girls
• Her key value is: "give grace"

Join the Travel Chicks Podcast as we dive deep into who Nicole is, what does she do in the world, and all the topics mentioned above.

• How to express your feelings? Why is it so important?
• What was Nicole's biggest challenge and how she got through it?
• How did she deal with her daughter's diagnosis and her dad passing away?
• How does Nicole find flow manage running a business, a busy schedule, and being a mom?
• Is traveling important in one's life?

Follow and Subscribe to Travel Chicks to stay up to date with engaging episodes with lots of Travel, Transformation, and Inspiration.

Leave a rating if this episode brought you value and insight to be your better self.

Learn more about Nicole's projects and life on Facebook and Instagram.

Today, Melissa had the opportunity to chat with her colleague in the travel industry, Mr. Eric Bowman. He shared his recent experience traveling down south during corona and his advice on why he believes travel is a must for the soul....especially some inspirational tips on how to keep your travel dreams ALIVE! Tune in.

Eric Bowman is the Managing Editor of TravelPulse. He currently lives in Georgia. A graduate of The University of Georgia, Eric has been working in online media, radio and TV for over a decade.

To connect with eric via email: ebowman@travelpulse.com

Travel Pulse podcast on Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travelpulse-podcast/id1413420919

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EricBowman_

Kait  teaches entrepreneurs and professionals how to finally have the  adventurous, flexible lifestyles, financial freedom and high-level  impact they’ve always wanted, without working harder and missing out on  LIFE. She is a recovering digital nomad, who has worked in 20+ countries, supporting over 1500 CEOs, business owners and professionals to see their world through a new lens.   Kait holds an MA in Interpersonal Communications and also attended the world’s most immersive coach-training program, in California. She's received over $170,000 in academic awards for her work and has studied under the most renowned professional development and business experts. Kait's  also written, spoken or been featured on: The Bachelor Canada, The ABC  Australia, The Courier Mail, The Sunday Mail, CTV News, CFAX 1070 &  Kool FM, W Network & Shaw TV - as well as being the Platinum Sponsor  for The Travel Bootcamp 2019. She's  been remote for the better part of a decade and splits her time between  her hometown Victoria, Canada, her adopted home, Sydney, Australia and  wherever else she is called to. How Can You Reach Kate: Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TheRichCoach/ Website: www.kaitrich.com

Marielena from Epic 7 travel is Travel Chick's featured guest who helps us see the magnitude of Papua New Guinea's culture and rich history and why you should consider this a bucket list hit! Marielena Smith, founder of Epic 7 Travel,  is an adventure travel writer, photographer and scuba diver who  empowers explorers to Live the Unforgettable and transports them with  her visual storytelling, including landscape, wildlife, underwater and  aerial imagery from all seven continents. Connect with Marielena here: FB page/group url: https://www.facebook.com/epic7travel/ Website: https://epic7travel.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epic7travel/ Twitter  https://twitter.com/epic7travel For more details on what Travel Chicks is up to check us out here: Site: www.TravelChicks.ca FB: www.facebook.com/travelchicks

Travelling develops courage, adaptability, and bravery in the world of life. Travelling inspires you to act in the moment and learn how to adapt to new things. You gain a worldy perspective after you decide to go green when travelling. There is a visible difference when you meet people who have traveled and those who have not. Travel is the BEST school of life. Bring it back to the basics and physically pick up a book for the next destination you are planning to visit a new destination. Why not choose to trust the process and not have everything planned out. Christelle shares her experience when she landed in Cancun and was told it was very dangerous to stay there over night. A bit about Christelle: Hey, I'm Christelle, a French chick living in Australia. I caught the wanderlust bug 8 years ago. I love to explore new destinations, especially where the temperature is above 22 degrees, the palm trees thrive and the cocktails can be enjoyed in crystal clear waters;) I'm also a strong advocate for green travel so along with some tips on how to travel greener, I've partnered with One Tree Planted to encourage our readers to help us plant trees. We've got to help the planet if we - travelers - want to keep enjoying its wonders ;) IG: @the+tropical_travellers FB: https://www.facebook.com/thetropicaltravellers/ Web: www.thetropicaltravellers.co

Today, our special guest, Paige from That Blonde Bikini Girl shares her top tips when it comes to female solo travel. What tips do you need to know before you make that decision to jet set to a foreign destination? There is not just "one way to live life" according to Paige. She has acquired a different perspective and outlook on life and what's possible when she decides to board a new plane. She's experienced so many cultures, diversities, and an awakening of her own life to what is possible when we release societal norms.  As a female travel coordinator and blogger, Paige shares tips, tricks and hacks so that you can feel confident and knowledgeable as you adventure around the globe. I'm most commonly known for being ‘that travel gal’ in my hometown or a ‘complete-travel-gypsy’ by my BFF, probably referring to me moving abroad constantly, while living on a budget. She actually didn’t start traveling until I was 20-years-old. She awoke up one day and decided it was time for a change, so she applied for a work visa in Australia, grabbed her bag and never looked back. That stint lasted 16-months and fueled her passion for worldwide travel. After that, she was addicted. She booked trip after trip, going anywhere and everywhere. After years of solo travel experience, she put her expertise to use and now helps women around the globe travel together. She uses this platform to share her favorite destination guides and budget-savvy tricks on how to travel safely, affordably and confidently. Each week, you can find her blogging right here from That Blonde Bikini Girl Headquarters (aka my cute studio apartment in Calgary, Alberta), sharing all my secrets on the world’s dreamiest destinations - for less! If you’re a woman looking for relatable, honest advice on how to best travel the world alone or with a friend, this is your go-to resource. Through trial and error, she's personally learned everything she knows about traveling through experience. You can always find her latest advice on how she affords to travel so often here on her blog and on her Instagram account, but if you’re looking for hands-on, personalized advice, she now offers 60-minute travel planning/coaching sessions. Here's how to connect with Paige: IG: @thatblondebikinigirl FB: https://www.facebook.com/ThatBlondeBikiniGirl/ Website: https://www.thatblondebikinigirl.com/

In today's Travel Talk Tuesday edition we have our special guest Shauna Carter from AMA Waterways River Cruises. Shauna discusses why is river cruising so popular all of a sudden. The very specific itineraries that are her top choice for first time river cruisers and she shares her recent 16 day experience to France.

This is a must hear show as Shauna really paints a picture of what it would be like to experience AMA Waterways onboard a lovely river cruise. She also gives you insider info on some exotic and off the beaten path itineraries that tantalize the taste buds and give you a truly immersive cultural experience. Give a like and leave your comments below if you enjoyed this Travel Talk. Interested in chatting with us to help you find the perfect river cruise for you? Email info@travelchicks.ca or call direct at 1-866-934-8463

In today's travel talk Tuesday episode we dive into Viking river cruises and explore what's trending, what's unique and what sets Viking river cruises apart from the rest. Join us as we embark on a virtual journey through serene waters and picturesque landscapes, learning about the unparalleled elegance, exceptional service, and enriching cultural experiences that define a Viking river cruise.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first river adventure, this episode promises to inspire and inform, offering insights that will ignite your wanderlust and guide you towards your next unforgettable travel experience. Get ready to sail away with us as we uncover the magic of Viking river cruises! Interested in securing your $25 deposit for a future river cruise with Viking!? Contact Travel Chicks today at info@travelchicks.ca or call direct 1-866-934-8463.

In today's travel talk Tuesday edition we bring Peru Part Two to you on Geralyn the Travel Chick's exciting adventure. She discusses the cultural immersion experience with Exoticca's "Sacred Land of the Incas" tour.

The action-packed Exoticca tour of Peru's most emblematic sights! Visit the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu, discover the vibrant food scene of Lima, explore Cuzco and uncover the secrets of the Sacred Valley.

Geralyn shares her top tips when travelling to Lima, Peru, top sights to not miss, the special and magical feeling that embodies your soul when you embark on this adventure. Even if you struggle with health conditions, like asthma or respiratory issues, Geralyn still found this tour manageable with these conditions. If you would like to contact Geralyn directly, feel free to email her at geralyn@travelchicks.ca

Join the Travel Chicks, Jenni and Melissa, on Travel Talk Tuesday as they bring you travel tips, destination ideas, and experiences. This podcast is perfect for solo and group travelers looking for inspiration and transformation through travel.

Learn about exciting destinations like Belize, known for its diverse attractions, English-speaking locals, and the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere. Discover the best activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and more. Tune in for fun facts, travel stories, and practical tips from seasoned travelers with over 28 years of combined experience. Don’t miss the insights on group trips and exclusive travel deals!

Discovering Peru, Top Travel Tips for Lima

Welcome to the premiere episode of Travel Talks, your new favorite podcast for all things travel, transformation, and inspiration! Tune in every Tuesday at lunchtime for exciting travel tales and tips from your hosts, Melissa and Geralyn—the dynamic duo behind Travel Chicks. Whether you're listening from the office or on the go, we're here to fuel your wanderlust and share amazing travel experiences.

In this inaugural episode, we introduce ourselves and our mission at Travel Chicks. We're passionate about creating a community for solo travelers, especially those who are divorced, widowed, or simply love to travel but can't always find companions. Our platform is designed to bring like-minded travelers together for unforgettable adventures.

This week, Geralyn takes us on a journey through her recent trip to Peru. From the bustling streets of Lima to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, you'll hear all about the incredible sights and experiences that make Peru a top travel destination. Learn about the historical significance of Machu Picchu, explore the vibrant markets of Cusco, and get insider tips on navigating Peruvian cities and culture.

Key Highlights: - Introduction to Travel Talks and the Travel Chicks community - Geralyn’s adventure in Peru, featuring Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu - Tips for solo travelers and the benefits of group travel - Cultural insights and practical advice for visiting Peru

Don't miss this chance to explore Peru through Geralyn's eyes and get inspired for your next travel adventure. Subscribe now and join the Travel Chicks community for weekly episodes filled with travel tips, stories, and inspiration!

To connect with Geralyn, please email geralyn@travelchicks.ca

Today, Melissa chats with Israel Ministry of Tourism and discusses some top sights, and must-do attractions that you cannot miss while visiting Israel. It is truly a gem in history that has a wealth of information and sights to see and explore for the traveller.

River Cruise has been one of the top choices for bucket list travel dreams. Have you ever wanted to set sail on one of Europe's incredibly beautiful rivers onboard Ama Waterways? This year may be the perfect time to do so with their FREE AIRFARE included on 2022 sailings. 

Today, Melissa interviews Shauna with AMA Waterways and they discuss some of our top cruise itinerary suggestions. Tune in and then visit our site to see the highlighted cruises here: https://travelchicks.ca/rivercruise/

On this episode of Travel Chicks, Melissa sits down with fellow Travel Chick Jacqueline—fresh off a Tourism Spain invite—to spill the real Spain: fragrant orange-lined boulevards in Valencia, royal-meets-Moorish magic at Seville’s Real Alcázar, skywalks atop the city’s “Las Setas” sculpture, late-night tapas culture, and a hands-on paella class where tradition meets taste. You’ll also hear smart timing tips (why April–May and Oct–Nov beat the 40°C sizzle), ease of English for travelers, and foodie pilgrimages—from Mercado Central to the Basque Country’s cluster of Michelin-star temples.

Whether you’re a solo traveler dreaming of new friends or planning an unforgettable girls’ getaway, this episode is your permission slip to go beyond Barcelona and Madrid—and fall hard for Spain’s underrated gems.

What you’ll learn

• The vibe difference between Seville & Valencia (and which one stole Jacqueline’s heart)

• Why shoulder season > summer for comfort, crowds, and cost

• Must-do moments: flamenco, Las Setas viewpoints, Mercado Central, and paella origins

• Bucket-list extras: Las Fallas festival and Spain’s Michelin hot spots up north

Loved this chat? Please follow, rate & review, and share with a friend who needs a little Spain in their life. Want help planning your own Spain itinerary or a Travel Chicks group trip? Email: jacquelineclick here!

In this powerful episode of the Travel Chicks Podcast, host Melissa Mackey sits down with award-winning filmmaker, author, and adventurer Dianne Whan, the visionary behind the documentary 500 Days in the Wild. What started as a 500-day solo trek across Canada turned into a transformative 6-year odyssey of over 1,800 days—by foot, canoe, and snowshoe—on the world’s longest trail.

Dianne shares what inspired her to burn the schedule and embrace surrender, how Indigenous wisdom shaped her journey, and why connection—to nature, to others, and to self—is the ultimate medicine for healing and hope. From near-hypothermic storms to heartfelt teachings from First Nations elders, this conversation is raw, rich, and deeply relevant for anyone navigating grief, reinvention, or a yearning to reconnect with what really matters.

You’ll hear about:

• The real reason Dianne left everything behind after a divorce and the death of her dog

• How the kindness of strangers and Indigenous teachings shaped her path

• Her lessons on fear, trust, and feminine resilience in the wild

• Why 500 Days in the Wild is more than a film—it’s a movement for reconnection

• What “travel with” vs “travel on” the land truly means

📺 500 Days in the Wild is now streaming in Canada on Paramount Plus and other platforms. International viewers can visit https://500daysinthewild.com/ https://www.diannewhelan.com/ 

What if stepping outside your comfort zone could completely change your life? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Kellie Paxian, a world traveler, safari specialist, and adventure creator who went from a PR office job in Vancouver to building a dream life in Cape Town, South Africa.

Kellie shares how travel has the power to transform you from the inside out, why solo trips can be life-changing (and confidence-boosting!), and her best tips for female travelers seeking safe, empowering adventures, especially safaris.

We dive into: ✅ Why travel is the ultimate “therapy” for heartbreak, loss, or major life transitions ✅ Overcoming fear and finding courage as a solo female traveler ✅ Kelly’s most unforgettable wildlife encounters (including the viral moose moment!) ✅ Bucket list African safaris—where to go, what to see, and how long to stay ✅ Why Cape Town is one of the most breathtaking cities in the world

Whether you’re dreaming of a Rocky Mountain road trip, an African safari, or your first solo adventure, this episode will leave you inspired to pack your bags and embrace the unknown.

✨ Watch Kellie’s viral moose video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLNmqiEp-NK/  ✨ Follow Kelly on Instagram: @kelliepaxian ✨ Learn more about safaris & group trips: adventureless.travel

🎧 Tune in now for your weekly dose of travel inspiration!

As always, if you have a burning desire to head out on an adventure be sure to reach out or visit our website: www.Travelchicks.ca