The ROAMies Podcast

Discover how to make the most of autumn in America's national parks. In this episode, we share a guide to stunning landscapes, hidden trails, and unforgettable fall adventures waiting to be explored. 

Jennifer Broome; sweptawaytoday.com
* Instagram: @jenniferbroometravel
* Facebook: JenniferBroomeTV 
* TikTok: @jenniferbroometravel 
* X (Twitter): @jenniferbroome 
* YouTube: Channel named “Swept Away With Jennifer Broome” 

Mentioned in this episode: Mesa Verde Motel https://mesaverdemotel.com/

Fall's golden light transforms America's national parks into magical landscapes begging to be explored, and this episode serves as your ultimate autumn adventure guide with national parks expert Jennifer Broom.

The conversation begins with Acadia National Park, where the fiery fall foliage creates a spectacular backdrop against Maine's rugged coastline. Jennifer highlights Cadillac Mountain's distinction as the first place in America to see sunrise during fall months, along with unique features like Thunder Hole's dramatic water displays and Sand Beach's rare geological composition. For those seeking the quintessential leaf-peeping experience, the Blue Ridge Parkway connecting Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks offers an epic drive showcasing every autumn hue imaginable.

The discussion then shifts westward to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, where golden aspens complement the incredible ancient cliff dwellings. Jennifer's enthusiasm is palpable as she describes Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and shares insider tips about the park's two scenic loops and hidden, unmarked ruins that reward observant hikers on the Petroglyph Point trail. Her recommendation to use the charming town of Mancos as a base adds local flavor to the travel planning.

By November, Jennifer suggests heading to the Grand Canyon, where cooler temperatures and thinner crowds create ideal visiting conditions. She reveals Flagstaff's value as a strategic home base, not just for canyon access, but for exploring three distinct national monuments and discovering the area's surprising connections to lunar exploration and astronaut training.

Throughout the episode, Jennifer's passion for fall's transformative beauty shines through - from her descriptions of crisp "October skies" to observations about how autumn colors extend beyond tree leaves to ground vegetation, especially in desert landscapes. Practical advice about layering clothes, bringing headlamps for shorter daylight hours, and taking advantage of ranger-led tours rounds out this comprehensive guide to experiencing national parks during nature's most colorful season.

What are you waiting for? Grab your camera, pack some layers, and hit the road to experience these national treasures during their most spectacular season!

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Dreaming of summer adventures in America's national parks? Join us for your ultimate Summer guide, where we share tips and stories to help you experience the magic and wonder that awaits beyond the wild. 

Thank you to Jennifer Broome for being our guest and guide! Here's where you can connect with her!:

sweptawaytoday.com
* Instagram: @jenniferbroometravel
* Facebook: JenniferBroomeTV 
* TikTok: @jenniferbroometravel 
* X (Twitter): @jenniferbroome 
* YouTube: Channel named “Swept Away With Jennifer Broome” 

Dreaming of a national park adventure this summer but dreading the notorious crowds at Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon? Travel expert Jennifer Broom returns to share her insider knowledge on spectacular alternatives that offer unique summer experiences without the tourist crush.

Jennifer takes us first to Grand Tetons in early June, when wildflowers carpet the landscape beneath snow-capped peaks and wildlife viewing reaches its prime - including opportunities to spot mama bears with cubs (from a safe distance, of course). She shares practical safety tips, including the "thumb rule": if you can't cover the animal with your thumb at arm's length, you're standing too close.

We then journey to Isle Royale National Park, a remote paradise in Lake Superior accessible only during the summer months by seaplane or ferry. Jennifer describes her personal experience hiking through fern-covered forests and enjoying the tranquility of this island wilderness. For late summer travelers, Theodore Roosevelt National Park emerges as a hidden gem, offering "Yellowstone without the crowds but blending in a little bit of Badlands." The park's wild horse population - one of the few places in America to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat - provides unforgettable moments as their manes blow in the wind against painted rock landscapes.

Weather preparedness becomes a recurring theme as Jennifer (a meteorologist herself) advises on packing layers for temperature swings, rain gear for afternoon thunderstorms, and essential sun protection. Her suggested road trip combining Theodore Roosevelt with Badlands National Park creates the perfect late-summer itinerary, with opportunities to explore Wind Cave and Jewel Cave for underground wonders.

Beyond breathtaking scenery, these parks offer something increasingly precious: opportunities to disconnect from technology and connect with American history. As Jennifer shares from her experience visiting over 258 National Park Service units, these landscapes appear much as they did thousands of years ago, providing living history lessons spanning indigenous cultures to westward expansion.

Ready to discover America's natural treasures beyond the obvious choices? Subscribe to hear more from Jennifer in our next episode about fall national park adventures!

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Ready to explore the national parks this spring? Discover breathtaking scenery, hidden gems, and expert travel tips for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. 

Thank you to Jennifer Broome for being our guest and guide! Here's where you can connect with her!:

sweptawaytoday.com
* Instagram: @jenniferbroometravel
* Facebook: JenniferBroomeTV 
* TikTok: @jenniferbroometravel 
* X (Twitter): @jenniferbroome 
* YouTube: Channel named “Swept Away With Jennifer Broome” 

 The vast beauty of America's national parks beckons throughout the seasons, but knowing exactly when to visit each one can transform a good trip into an unforgettable adventure. In this captivating episode, we welcome extraordinary globetrotter Jennifer Broome, who recently conquered Mount Kilimanjaro's 19,341-foot summit and has visited over 250 National Park Service units across the country.

Jennifer unveils the hidden treasures of springtime park visits, starting with Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park, where a rare "surge flow" phenomenon creates backward-flowing ripples in Medano Creek during May and early June. She transports us to Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles off Key West, where seaplane rides offer glimpses of marine life en route to Fort Jefferson—the largest masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere.

Our journey continues through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park's Chain of Craters Road, where visitors can experience everything from active volcanic landscapes to ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs along the jagged coastline. Jennifer also shares her unforgettable solo hike through California's lesser-known Pinnacles National Park, where she witnessed endangered California condors soaring overhead—a magical moment made possible by visiting during the quieter spring season.

Beyond these destinations, Jennifer offers practical wisdom for maximizing spring park visits: avoid spring break crowds, consider weekday visits, pack appropriate layers for unpredictable weather, and don't miss Utah's "Mighty Five" parks in April when conditions are ideal. Her stories remind us that our national parks offer not just scenery, but moments of profound connection with nature that can only be experienced firsthand.

Whether you're planning your next outdoor adventure or simply dreaming of America's natural wonders, this episode provides the perfect guide to experiencing our national parks at their finest in the springtime. Subscribe now and join us next week as we explore the best parks to visit during summer!

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Join us as we journey beyond Belize's famous beaches to explore its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and untold stories. Learn what makes this paradise tour an experience you'll never forget. 

Luxury meets authenticity at Sirenian Bay Resort and Villas, Belize's only true all-inclusive paradise, nestled along the pristine shores of Placencia. Join us as we peel back the layers of this extraordinary destination that has mastered the delicate balance between world-class amenities and genuine Belizean character.

Step inside our breathtaking Pelican Villa with its two-story layout featuring a private second-floor plunge pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea. We'll guide you through every corner of this meticulously designed accommodation, from the handcrafted wooden furniture to the Alexa-controlled amenities that seamlessly blend technology with tropical luxury. With nothing between our oceanfront villa and the turquoise waters but sand and swaying palms, it's the embodiment of barefoot luxury.

Beyond our spectacular accommodations, we dive into the incredible culinary experiences orchestrated by head chef Marco. From customized beach dinners under the stars to private chef services, the resort's gastronomic offerings transcend typical all-inclusive fare. We'll share our favorite dishes and the unique dining settings that made our meals unforgettable.

Adventure seekers will appreciate our exploration of Inky's – the entertainment complex with its fascinating origin story and range of activities including an 18-hole mini-golf course, pickle ball courts, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Meanwhile, wellness enthusiasts will be intrigued by our firsthand account of unique spa treatments like coffee scrubs and banana leaf wraps that incorporate local ingredients and techniques.

Whether you're planning your own Belize an getaway or simply craving a virtual escape, our intimate look at Sirenian Bay reveals why this boutique resort stands apart from typical Caribbean destinations. As the resort continues to expand with new villas and amenities, there's never been a better time to discover this hidden gem that exemplifies luxury with heart.

Ready to experience the magic of Belize? Follow us @TheROAMies on Instagram and Facebook to see stunning photos from our adventure, or visit www.TheROAMies.com to learn more about planning your own unforgettable journey to SIrenian Bay.

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Go behind the scenes at Sirenian Bay Resort and discover the craftsmanship, dedication, and beauty that bring this unique destination to life. Learn what makes it a true gem of Belizean hospitality. 

What happens when a luxury resort puts people at the heart of everything they do? In this eye-opening conversation with Brian Montgomery of Sirenian Bay Resorts and Villas, we explore how true hospitality extends far beyond guest experiences to transform entire communities.

Montgomery reveals the extraordinary investments Sirenian Bay makes in its staff—from providing air-conditioned housing (unheard of in the industry) to offering free meals prepared by dedicated cooks. "We're not going to have somebody stay in something that we would not stay in," he explains, highlighting how this commitment to employee welfare directly translates to the authentic warmth guests experience.

The resort's dedication to craftsmanship shines through its in-house woodshop, where seven skilled carpenters create everything from custom wedding arches to the hand-carved doors adorning each villa. Each room is named after local wildlife, with intentionally curated views and experiences that showcase Belize's natural beauty at every turn.

Most remarkable is Montgomery's leadership program, providing leadership training and mentorship to local youth in Seine Bight, while introducing them to potential career paths. His cancer journey profoundly shaped this giving philosophy: "Cancer taught me it's not about me anymore," he shares with raw honesty.

From repurposing an old satellite dish as welcome signs to naming Snooty's Bar after a beloved manatee, every detail at Sirenian Bay tells a story—one of connection, purpose, and the understanding that luxury can coexist with profound community impact. Experience the magic for yourself at this Belizean paradise where "creating a return guest on our first interaction" isn't just a mission statement—it's woven into the fabric of everything they do.

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Join us as we uncover the inspiring story behind Sirenian Bay. This episode offers a deeply personal look at the reality of a cancer diagnosis and the journey that followed - sharing hope, strength, and the power of perseverance.   

What happens when a life-threatening cancer diagnosis transforms into a mission to create paradise? The ROAMies welcome Brian Montgomery, founder of Sirenian Bay Resort in Placencia, Belize, who shares his extraordinary journey from facing terminal cancer to building an award-winning luxury destination.

Brian's story begins with humble roots in Mississippi and a devastating diagnosis at 38 years old that gave him just six months to live. After nine months of treatment and a life-saving bone marrow transplant, Brian and his wife Brenda emerged with a completely different perspective on life. They sold their Texas company in 2012 and set out to build a simple beach house somewhere beautiful. Upon visiting Belize, they immediately fell in love with the country and its people, purchasing a property centered around two palm trees that would become the foundation of their first villa.

What makes Sirenian Bay truly special isn't just its modern luxury amenities or stunning beachfront location. The heart of the resort lies in Brian's revolutionary approach to leadership and staff development. His "Above the Line" philosophy focuses on positivity, purpose, and believing in people who had never been believed in before. This approach recently earned Sirenian Bay recognition from Expedia as offering the best customer experience in all of Belize.

The resort wasn't built according to a master plan or with profit as the primary motive. Rather, it evolved organically from Brian and Brenda's genuine love for Belize and desire to share their slice of paradise with others. What began as a retirement home to visit 4-6 weeks annually has blossomed into a destination where guests become friends and staff feel like family.

This inspiring conversation reveals how the most meaningful creations often come from the heart, not the balance sheet. Join us as we explore how one man's second chance at life became an opportunity to transform not just his own future, but an entire community's as well.

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Love chocolate? Join us on a Belize adventure where you'll discover the magic of a chocolate farm excursion and the hidden beauty of secret waterfalls. Learn how this delicious journey connects culture, nature, and pure indulgence. 

Ever wondered what it's like to grind your own chocolate on a centuries-old Mayan stone or snorkel alongside harmless sharks off a private Caribbean island? Join us as we dive into our adventures with Captain Jak's excursions in Placencia, Belize!

We take you behind the scenes of this remarkable tour company headquartered at Sirenian Bay Resort, sharing the touching story of how the original Captain Jack's legacy lives on through his friend, who purchased the business after Jack's passing. From there, we journey through lush jungles to experience a traditional chocolate farm where we learned about cacao cultivation, tasted the surprisingly delicious fruit surrounding cacao beans, and participated in the ancient art of chocolate-making using techniques passed down through generations.

Our adventures continue at a hidden three-tiered waterfall system that felt plucked straight from a movie set. Picture this: crystal-clear pools perfect for cliff jumping, tiny fish providing natural "spa treatments" by nibbling dead skin cells from your feet, and refreshing swims surrounded by pristine jungle. As if that wasn't enough, we recount our unforgettable catamaran journey to Moho Key, a private island where we snorkeled through vibrant coral reefs, encountered docile nurse sharks and stingrays, and enjoyed fresh-grilled meals on a picture-perfect beach.

What makes Captain Jak's truly special is their commitment to personalized experiences – whether you're seeking adventure, romance, or cultural immersion, they craft bespoke excursions tailored to your desires. We also share insider tips about visiting Belize during May's shoulder season, when you can enjoy summer weather without the winter crowds.

Subscribe now to hear more about our Belizean adventures, including our upcoming episode featuring the remarkable Sirenian Bay Resort, where we stayed throughout our journey!

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CODE: ROAMIES10

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Join us as we explore Placencia, Belize - your guide to a true summer escape. Discover the charm, adventure, and hidden beauty of this tropical paradise waiting to be explored. 

Thank you to Sirenian Bay Resorts and Villas! sirenianbay.com

Have you ever dreamed of escaping to a tropical paradise where palm trees sway, crystal waters beckon, and adventure awaits around every corner? Join us as we kick off our summer series exploring Placencia, Belize—a stunning 16-mile peninsula that captivated us from the moment we arrived.

This episode serves as your comprehensive guide to planning the perfect Belizean getaway. We break down everything from what to pack (multiple swimsuits are non-negotiable!) to navigating flights with Tropic Air's scenic puddle jumpers that offer breathtaking aerial views of mountains, rainforests, and winding rivers. You'll appreciate our practical tips about currency (the easy 2:1 exchange rate makes math simple), language (English is the official language), and the fascinating cultural mosaic that makes Belize so unique.

Discover accommodation options that cater to every preference—from Serenian Bay, Belize's only all-inclusive resort where we stayed, to private islands with personal chefs, to the garden paradise of Ceiba Beach Resort. We take you behind the scenes of each property, sharing the distinct atmosphere and amenities you'll find. Transportation is a breeze with golf carts from Captain Jack's for peninsula exploration and boat taxis for island hopping.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is our firsthand experience navigating the quirks of Belizean travel—like how to handle those pesky "no-see-ums" (sand fleas), the unexpected flexibility of flight schedules, and local customs you won't find in typical travel guides. We even share the story of a mysterious bird encounter that left even long-time locals puzzled!

Whether you're actively planning a trip or simply dreaming of your next escape, this episode will transport you to the sunny shores of Placencia. Subscribe now to join us next week as we dive deeper into our adventures with snorkeling, spice farms, chocolate making, and more unforgettable experiences from our Belizean journey.

Gecko Vacation Rentals: [email protected] 972-383-4443

Prana Maya Island Resort: [email protected] 888-487-2011

Travel Advisors to help book your trip:

Destinations by Kami, LLC: [email protected], 419-957-2087

Dream Vacations:JoAnne:  [email protected], 919-452-0227

Samantha Garrick- Travel Advisor [email protected] 601-658-8484

Brook Ray -  [email protected]     @travelwithdirection 

Melanie Rodriguez, CTA, VTA - [email protected], 215.240.1327

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CODE: ROAMIES10

And it means the world to us when you subscribe, rate and share our podcast.

Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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It's our 250th episode! Come celebrate with the ROAMies as we take you behind the mic to share unforgettable moments, travel memories, and a look at how far the adventure has come - and where it's headed next. 

What happens when a musical duo brings you along on their adventures for 250 episodes? Magic, laughter, and a whole lot of wanderlust!

Our podcast journey began as a way to share genuine behind-the-scenes moments from our traveling musician lifestyle. While watching us write songs or record vocals might not make for riveting content, the towns we pass through, the people we meet, and the moments we experience absolutely do. That's our version of behind-the-scenes – letting you feel, see, taste, and experience it all alongside us.

We've recorded from hotel rooms, beaches, cars, and yes, even under blanket forts (surprisingly good acoustics, by the way). Throughout this journey, we've maintained our core message – travel doesn't have to be extravagant or expensive. Whether you're juggling family commitments, working long hours, or living on a tight budget, adventure is still within reach.

In this special 250th episode, we take a nostalgic trip through our favorite podcast moments, from searching for chocolate scents on the highway near Hershey, Pennsylvania, to nearly falling off cliffs while admiring ocean views. We're celebrating this milestone with exciting giveaways of products we genuinely use on our travels – Para'Kito mosquito repellent bundles and samples of Alexa's travel-inspired tea blends from Vegabond Teas (vegabondteas.com)

Looking ahead, we're thrilled to announce that we'll be bringing The ROAMies Podcast to YouTube later this year, starting with season one episodes reimagined for video. Plus, our next adventure takes us to Belize, where we'll explore caves, coastlines, and cacao farms in what promises to be an "un-Belize-able" journey.

Ready for your next dose of travel inspiration? Follow us on Instagram @TheROAMies to enter our giveaway and join us next week as we kick off our Belize series. Here's to 250 episodes of living free, loving deep, and traveling light!

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CODE: ROAMIES10

And it means the world to us when you subscribe, rate and share our podcast.

Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Discover how travel can go beyond a simple vacation. In this episode, we'll guide you through experiences that can shape your family's future and expand your children's worldview in lasting, meaningful ways. 

Thanks to Ryan with Dad Travel Blog DadTravelBlog.com 

Visit him on Socials @DadTravelBlog

And this episode is brought to you with love from QGolf.com

Parenting doesn't mean the end of adventure - it's just the beginning of a different kind of journey. In this heartwarming Father's Day episode, Ryan from Dad Travel Blog joins The Romies to share his wisdom on creating unforgettable family travel experiences that strengthen bonds and shape young worldviews.

When Ryan's family discovered the magical Swiss town of Lauterbrunnen, with its spectacular waterfalls and mountain trails, it made such an impression that they returned the following summer. But the true magic happened after coming home - his children spontaneously began learning French and German, demonstrating how travel plants seeds of curiosity that continue growing long after the suitcases are unpacked.

"Working full-time, you lose that connection. They're in school, I'm at work, we're doing activities at night... You don't always get to know your kid fully," Ryan explains, highlighting perhaps travel's greatest gift: uninterrupted time together. Those shared adventures - whether navigating foreign transit systems or simply watching a sunset in a new place - create a special kind of family glue that withstands the test of time.

For parents hesitant about the logistics of traveling with young ones, Ryan offers practical wisdom: start small with local adventures, build in downtime between activities, always pack extra snacks, and embrace the unexpected moments (like when his toddler began distributing their snacks to fellow airline passengers!). The goal isn't Instagram-perfect memories but authentic experiences that help children develop adaptability, curiosity, and openness.

This episode also features Scott from Q Golf, showcasing their innovative all-in-one adjustable golf club that breaks down to fit in a suitcase - perfect for the traveling dad who wants to squeeze in a round without lugging a full set of clubs- Perfect for Father's Day!

Whether you're planning your first family trip or your fiftieth, this conversation will inspire you to create adventures that strengthen your family's bonds while nurturing the next generation of curious, open-hearted travelers. Subscribe, rate, and follow @TheROAMies to join us on future journeys!

Wanna hit the road? Get 10% OFF your own roadsurfer adventure!

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CODE: ROAMIES10

And it means the world to us when you subscribe, rate and share our podcast.

Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

Follow us at:
http://www.TheROAMies.com
@The ROAMies: Facebook and Instagram
YouTube and X.