The ROAMies Podcast

Explore the Lavender Capital with The ROAMies! Uncover hidden gardens, game farms, and the local stories blooming across these unforgettable landscapes. 

The Olympic Peninsula beckons with its captivating blend of lavender-scented fields, historic coastal towns, and magical gardens just waiting to be discovered. Join us, The ROAMies, as we unpack our adventures through this Pacific Northwest gem, starting in Sequim—North America's lavender capital—where purple fields and blueberry farms inspired a special tea blend bearing the town's name.

Sequim proved the perfect launch point for our peninsula explorations. The quaint town buzzes with lavender culture, featuring shops like Sunshine Herb and Lavender Farm, where everything from culinary seasonings to home goods carries the signature scent. Though we missed the Olympic Game Farm's drive-through safari experience, we'll definitely return for close encounters with bison, bears, and llamas.

Our wanderings took us to the stunning Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, where a rugged trail stretches 11 miles round-trip to a distant lighthouse. We ventured to Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport brimming with maritime charm, art galleries, and the starting point of the ambitious Olympic Discovery Trail—a 130-mile pathway being built along a former railroad corridor connecting communities across the peninsula.

The most unexpected adventure came during our cross-border journey to Victoria, British Columbia. A forgotten passport meant one of us explored alone while the other uncovered Port Angeles's hidden gems. Victoria's crown jewel, Butchart Gardens, revealed its century-old splendor through the Sunken Garden (transformed from an abandoned quarry), the star-shaped pond originally designed for ornamental ducks, and meticulously maintained Japanese, Italian, and Rose gardens.

• Sequim serves as the perfect home base with its relaxing atmosphere and status as North America's lavender capital
• Lavender and blueberry fields inspired a special tea blend named "Sequim"
• Sunshine Herb and Lavender Farm offers everything lavender, from seasonings to home goods
• The Olympic Game Farm provides drive-through wildlife viewing opportunities for families
• Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge features an 11-mile round-trip beach walk to a lighthouse
• Port Townsend charms with Victorian architecture, art galleries, and maritime history
• The Olympic Discovery Trail spans from Port Townsend to La Push along a former railroad corridor: https://olympicdiscoverytrail.org/
• Victoria's Butchart Gardens showcases stunning themed gardens, including the Sunken Garden, Japanese Garden, and Star Pond
• Travel mishaps can lead to unexpected adventures, as when one forgot their passport for Canada

Whether you're chasing Twilight filming locations, seeking tranquil lavender rows, or craving coastal hikes, the Olympic Peninsula grounds you in Pacific Northwest beauty while feeding your wanderlust. Ready to experience this perfect blend of floral, coastal, and forest mystery for yourself? Subscribe now to join our next adventure to Belize!

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CODE: ROAMIES10

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Join us as we journey through the Olympic Peninsula's enchanting waterfalls and uncover the magic hidden within their winter beauty. Discover breathtaking stories and experiences that will inspire your next cold-season adventure. 

Make sure to check out our episode on PORT ANGELES! Episode 224!

You can also read our blog on the Port Angeles site here: 

https://www.visitportangeles.com/roam-with-the-roamies-as-they-explore-port-angeles-on-a-winter-vacation/

As well as our previous 2 episodes, to catch up with all our stories from the Olympic Peninsula, to inspire you to create your own stories on YOUR adventure there! 

 Waterfalls have a way of taking your breath away. Just ask Alexa, who fondly recalls being literally breathless when turning a corner during a Swiss hike to discover a magnificent cascade appearing out of nowhere. That magical moment sparked a passion that led us on an unforgettable journey through Washington's Olympic Peninsula, armed with nothing but a waterfall brochure and an appetite for natural wonder.

The peninsula reveals itself as a wonderland of diverse cascades, each with its own distinct personality. Near Port Angeles, we discovered Madison Falls, a peaceful 60-foot drop nestled in a mossy grove perfect for quiet contemplation, and Marymere Falls, where a winding trail through ancient forest rewards hikers with a spectacular 90-foot waterfall. Venturing into the Hoh Rainforest transported us to an otherworldly landscape where everything drips with moisture and vibrant green moss hangs like curtains from towering trees. Here, smaller cascades like Mineral Creek Falls reveal themselves along misty trails, surrounded by the greenest forest floor imaginable.

The Quinault Rainforest offered its own waterfall treasures, from roadside-accessible Merriman Falls to the wild beauty of Bunch Creek Falls with its dramatic 60-foot drop over rocky ledges. Though we couldn't make the 13-mile trek to the legendary "Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls" in Enchanted Valley, it's firmly on our bucket list for our next peninsula adventure. For waterfall chasers planning their own Olympic Peninsula journey, we recommend visiting during spring snowmelt or rainy months for maximum flow, and don't miss coastal falls like Strawberry Bay, where cascades meet the sea at low tide. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking backcountry wonders or prefer easy access viewing points, the Olympic Peninsula's waterfalls will leave you, like us, a little more in love with the natural world. Check our show notes for helpful links to plan your own waterfall adventure! 

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Journey with us from rainforests to reservations as we explore Washington's Indigenous lands. Discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and timeless stories that bring these landscapes to life. 

Native Whispers: Our Journey Through Washington's Indigenous Lands, Olympic Peninsula's Cultural Tapestry
Twilight Territory: Exploring La Push and Quileute Heritage
The Real Magic Behind Twilight Country
Standing at the Edge: Discovering America's Corner at Neah Bay

Venture beyond the Twilight-famous town of Forks as we dive deep into the cultural tapestry of Washington's Olympic Peninsula in this immersive journey through ancient tribal lands.

The misty Hoh Rainforest welcomes solo hikers with moss-draped trees and the legacy of the Hoh tribe, whose name derives from "Hox-wool" – referring to the river's fast-moving waters. Walking these ancestral paths feels almost sacred; the forest once provided indigenous communities with materials for shelter, clothing, tools, and the massive cedar canoes that connected their maritime way of life.

Our adventure continues to La Push, where the Quileute Nation's history stretches back thousands of years along spectacular driftwood-strewn beaches. This isn't just Jacob Black's fictional homeland – it's a place of genuine cultural resilience, featuring one of the world's few languages without nasal sounds and a community actively preserving their heritage while facing climate challenges. Those massive timber pieces scattered across the shoreline? Remnants of a 1921 storm that leveled nearly 8 billion feet of timber – enough to build 600,000 homes.

Perhaps most breathtaking is our journey to Neah Bay, territory of the Makah tribe and home to the northwesternmost point of continental America. The trail feels transported from fantasy – twisted trees forming natural benches, wooden planks guiding travelers across otherworldly terrain, and dramatic cliffs overlooking ocean caves. The Makah Cultural Center houses treasures from one of North America's most significant archaeological discoveries: the ancient village of Ozette, where a mudslide perfectly preserved 55,000+ artifacts of pre-contact indigenous life.

When visiting these special places, remember to purchase tribal recreation permits – they're an affordable way to support ongoing cultural preservation while experiencing some of America's most enchanting landscapes. Ready to explore the Olympic Peninsula's indigenous heritage for yourself? Subscribe now and follow our journey across America's most captivating destinations!

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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.

Discover the magic hidden in small towns as we journey through Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Explore charming local spots, breathtaking scenery, and even the real-life locations that inspired the Twilight saga.  

https://forkswa.com/

Thanks for sponsoring us, lorissaskitchen.com

Hear all about PORT ANGELES, WA (Episode 224)  HERE.

Ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of Bella Swan? Join us, Alexa and Rory—married musical nomads known as The ROAMies—as we finally check Forks, Washington, off our travel bucket list! This small, rainy town has captivated our imagination ever since it became the backdrop for the Twilight saga.

What we discovered might surprise you. Despite being the heart of Twilight country, almost none of the movies were actually filmed in Forks! But that hasn't stopped this charming logging town of 5,000 from embracing its literary fame. We explore the visitor center's dedicated Twilight museum, complete with movie memorabilia and the actual truck from the film sitting right outside. Armed with a free Twilight-themed map, we hit all the hotspots—from the Swan House (now an Airbnb) to Dr. Cullen's parking space at the hospital.

Beyond vampire lore, the Olympic Peninsula reveals itself as an outdoor paradise. We venture to La Push Beach on the Quileute Reservation, where massive driftwood decorates the shoreline and the moody atmosphere instantly reminds us why Stephenie Meyer chose this setting. The region boasts over 100 miles of beaches, 200 miles of wild rivers, mysterious rainforests, and alpine meadows—all within easy reach of Forks. Whether you're a Twilight fan or a nature lover, this corner of Washington delivers adventure and wonder.

Ready to experience the real Olympic Peninsula? Subscribe to our podcast for more travel tales, including our upcoming episodes about Sequim and more hidden gems in this remarkable region. And don't forget to pack smart snacks like our sponsor Lorissa's Kitchen jerky and meat sticks—perfect fuel for exploring the rainiest town in the continental US!

Please subscribe, rate, and share our podcast, and follow us on social media @TheRoamies or visit our website at www.theroamies.com.

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CODE: ROAMIES10

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

Follow us at:
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@The ROAMies: Facebook and Instagram
YouTube and X.

Join us as we chat with a mom who's learned how to turn every journey - near or far - into a family adventure. Discover practical advice, creative ideas, and inspiration to help you explore the world with your kids confidently and joyfully. 

Find Emily Kraus at AMomExplores.com and on socials @amomexplores

Check out Voyager Toddler Milk – USDA organic powdered milk in convenient single-serving packets perfect for travel with little ones. @voyagermilk

Emily's Podcast is called "The Travel With Kids Podcast." 

Travel with kids doesn't have to be a headache or budget-buster. Emily Krause, founder of the A Mom Explores blog, shares her hard-won wisdom from years of adventuring with her four children across America and around the world.

Emily reveals her top family-friendly destinations, both domestic and international. The Black Hills region offers abundant wildlife and outdoor spaces perfect for kids, while Washington, D.C., provides free museums and monuments that make it surprisingly affordable for larger families. For those ready to venture abroad, Emily explains why Costa Rica and Italy consistently deliver memorable experiences for all ages, from sloth tours to gondola rides.

The conversation tackles the real challenges of family travel head-on. Emily candidly discusses her transition from spontaneous solo adventures to the structured planning required with children. She offers practical budgeting strategies, from using flight comparison tools to packing food that significantly reduces dining expenses. Her approach to packing light – one packing cube per child – demonstrates how organization and minimalism can make family trips far less stressful.

What sets this discussion apart is Emily's balanced perspective on creating trips that work for everyone. Rather than exclusively catering to children's interests or forcing adult activities, she describes their family "team" approach, where everyone gets experiences they enjoy. By involving kids in planning and teaching them to celebrate others' interests, travel becomes a powerful tool for building character and consideration.

Ready to plan your next family adventure? Listen now and discover how travel with children can be not just manageable, but one of life's most rewarding experiences. Check out Emily's blog at amomexplores.com for more inspiration and practical guides.

• Black Hills and Badlands in South Dakota offer exceptional outdoor spaces and wildlife viewing, perfect for children
• Washington, D.C., provides free museums and monuments, making it budget-friendly for larger families
• Costa Rica and Italy rank as top international destinations with universal kid appeal and diverse activities
• Switch from spontaneous travel to having structured plans when traveling with children
• Book accommodations well in advance when traveling with larger families
• Use tools like Google Flights with open destinations to find affordable options for fixed dates
• Save on food by packing snacks and limiting restaurant meals to once daily
• Take advantage of programs like "Every Kid Outdoors," which gives fourth graders free national park passes
• Involve children in planning to build excitement and investment in the trip
• Balance adult interests (museums, hikes) with kid-friendly activities and treats
• Consider multi-generational travel to create memories and have extra helping hands
• Pack light using packing cubes – one per child with complete outfits
• Remember, you can purchase most forgotten items at your destination

Check out Voyager Toddler Milk – USDA organic powdered milk in convenient single-serving packets perfect for travel with little ones.

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

https://link.roadsurfer.com/roamies

CODE: ROAMIES10

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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@The ROAMies: Facebook and Instagram
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Join us on a flavorful Texas detour where we explore local meat markets, taste bold fire cider, and discover the surprising story behind purple potatoes. Get inspired to savor regional flavors and uncover hidden culinary gems along the way.  

You might hear my stomach growling as you listen to this delicious episode. Join us as we eat our way through Mineral Wells, Texas, a small town with a big reputation as "The Wellness Capital of Texas."

Our culinary adventure begins at Fro Pro Cafe, where breakfast comes with an unexpected bonus—a sophisticated body composition scan that reveals far more than your weight. The cafe owner explains how this technology helps customers understand their true health metrics beyond BMI, tracking everything from muscle mass to hydration levels. While Alexa enjoys a colorful acai bowl, Rory discovers the unique purple sweet potato flavor of ube in a protein-packed breakfast shake.

The day continues at City Meats and Market, where wellness takes on a distinctly Texan twist with high-quality, locally-sourced meats and specialty grocery items. This multipurpose establishment flows seamlessly into connecting boutique shops, creating an immersive small-town shopping experience. We meet passionate local business owners who reveal their community-first approach to commerce—rather than competing, they actively send customers to each other's shops.

At The Market at 76067 (named for the local zip code), we discover an innovative approach to supporting local artisans. Instead of each vendor having a separate space, products are organized by category, creating a cohesive shopping experience while still celebrating individual makers. The owner shares how this collaborative model has transformed their downtown, with over 70% of sales now coming from tourists.

We grabbed Rose's book here! You can learn more about her from her podcast here:  and www.BeneathTheFigTree.org

Our day culminates with dinner at Second Bar and Kitchen inside the historic Crazy Water Hotel. Under the direction of a New York chef, the restaurant maintains its Texas roots through locally sourced ingredients proudly listed on the menu. Don't miss their "fire cider" shot—a non-alcoholic wellness elixir that packs flavor and health benefits in equal measure.

Through our food-focused exploration, we uncover the true meaning of wellness in this unique Texas town—it's about quality ingredients, strong community connections, and businesses that lift each other up rather than competing. Ready to taste it for yourself? Visit minerallwells.org to plan your own foodie adventure.

Also mentioned in this episode: Vegabond Tea: vegabondteas.com 

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CODE: ROAMIES10

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Alexa and Rory
The ROAMies

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Join us as we uncover the natural wonders of Mineral Wells. From lush gardens and tranquil lakes to hidden trails and dazzling waterfalls, this episode guides you through the enchanting landscapes that make this destination truly unforgettable. 

VisitMineralWells.org 

Trading pavement for pedals, paddles, and parks, our journey through Mineral Wells revealed a Texas treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. From the moment we stepped into Clark Gardens Botanical Park, we were captivated by its magic – wheelchair-accessible pathways winding through vibrant displays, waterfalls sparkling in sunlight, and ponds where black and white swans glide gracefully alongside strutting peacocks.

What makes this garden extraordinary is its humble origins as Max Clark and his wife's private yard, gradually transformed into a botanical paradise now recognized as an official best public garden in Texas. During our visit, we experienced their annual Grow Festival, a month-long celebration of art, wellness, and Texas heritage featuring themed weekends, hands-on activities, and special events like crawfish boils. The Quanah Parker "One Man, Two Worlds" exhibit tucked inside the on-site chapel, powerfully chronicled the story of Cynthia Ann Parker and her son Quanah, the last Comanche chief – a fascinating glimpse into the cultural collisions that shaped frontier America.

Our adventure continued at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, where we hiked through the aptly named Penitentiary Hollow with its impressive sandstone cliffs and hidden caves. Rock climbers, hikers, campers, and mountain bikers all find their paradise here, with access to a 20-mile trailway connecting to neighboring Weatherford. The highlight came when we partnered with Spartan Adventure and Rentals for some lake exploration – though one of us learned the hard way that "stand-up paddleboarding" can quickly become "stand-up splashboarding" when attempting to model a new shirt! Despite the unexpected swim, being surrounded by herons, ducks, and the gentle lap of water against our boards provided that perfect reset that only nature can deliver.

Ready to answer nature's call? Plan your own outdoor escape at visitmineralwells.org and discover why this charming Texas town deserves a prominent spot on your travel wishlist. Subscribe to our podcast for more adventures, and follow us @TheROAMies on all social platforms to join our journey!

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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 the healing waters of Mineral Wells and explore its fascinating transformation from a historic health resort to today's thriving Wellness Capital. Learn how this remarkable destination continues to inspire restoration, relaxation, and renewal. 

VisitMineralWells.com

Tucked away in the heart of Texas lies Mineral Wells, a town whose identity was forever shaped by a peculiar discovery in 1877. When Judge Alvis Lynch and his wife settled in this then-barren land, they struck something more valuable than gold – mineral-rich water with seemingly miraculous healing properties.

With Rose Jordan as our expert guide, we journey through time to uncover how this unassuming place transformed into "America's Great Health Resort" where people would flock to "drink their way to health." The story behind the famous "Crazy Water" name proves particularly fascinating – originating from a local woman whose mental health noticeably improved after regularly drinking from the town's third well. What was once dismissed as superstition is now understood through the lens of modern science as potentially addressing severe mineral deficiencies affecting brain chemistry.

The architectural treasures of Mineral Wells tell their own compelling stories. With over 100 historic buildings preserved in its nationally registered historic district, the town stands as a testament to resilience and preservation. We explore the magnificent Baker Hotel, constructed in 1929, just after the stock market crash, which hosted celebrities like Judy Garland and The Three Stooges before closing its doors in 1972. After sitting vacant for decades, this architectural marvel is now undergoing a painstaking restoration that symbolizes the town's rebirth – a project locals jokingly said would happen "when pigs fly."

The story of Mineral Wells is ultimately one of reinvention and hope. From its decline following FDA restrictions and the closure of Fort Worth's military base to its recent designation as the "Wellness Capital of Texas," the community demonstrates how honoring heritage while embracing modern wellness can breathe new life into a historic destination. Join us as we discover how this remarkable town is reclaiming its identity through water, wellness, and a community that refused to give up on its flying pigs.

Also mentioned on this episode: Episodes 211, 212, & 224

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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:
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Sip, soak, and heal as you discover the unexpected powers of Texas' "craziest" water. In this episode, we explore the fascinating story and remarkable benefits of the mineral-rich waters that have been drawing visitors for generations. 

Join us as we kick off our exploration of Mineral Wells, Texas - the unexpected wellness haven just left of Dallas-Fort Worth that's captivating health enthusiasts and history buffs alike. We're diving straight into what makes this charming town truly special: its legendary mineral-rich waters with healing properties so remarkable they earned the nickname "Crazy Water."

You'll hear the fascinating origin story from 1881, when a woman suffering from dementia reportedly found relief after regularly drinking from a local well, transforming it into a destination for thousands seeking similar benefits. We take you inside our first-hand experience at the Crazy Coffee and Water Bar, where we sample four distinct varieties of mineral water - each with its own unique properties, taste profile, and wellness benefits. From the purified Number One to America's highest mineral content bottled water (the legendary Number Four), we guide you through what makes each special and how locals recommend incorporating them into your wellness routine.

The nutritionist in Alexa couldn't resist breaking down exactly what makes these waters so beneficial - from their alkaline properties that help reduce acidity and toxins to the impressive mineral profile that includes sodium bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. These natural elements work together to support everything from bone strength to immune function. We also share our rejuvenating experience at the mineral baths, where Number Three water combined with micro-bubble technology created the perfect detoxifying soak.

Whether you're fascinated by natural wellness approaches, curious about unique American travel destinations, or simply love discovering hidden gems with rich histories, this episode offers a refreshing dive into a truly special place. Subscribe now and join us for the next three episodes as we continue exploring the wonders of Mineral Wells!

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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.

Go beyond borders and discover wellness destinations around the world. In this episode, you'll learn how to embrace travel as a path to health, balance, and renewal-your starting point for a journey towards a more mindful way of exploring. 

The ROAMies take listeners on a global tour of exceptional wellness destinations perfect for rejuvenation and self-care. We share our carefully researched favorite spots across Switzerland, Europe, and beyond, providing a starting point for your wellness travel planning.

• Switzerland stands as the pinnacle of wellness retreats with luxury options like Burgenstock Resort and Chenot Palace on Lake Lucerne
• Grand Resort Bad Ragaz offers thermal waters, while Clinique La Prairie provides science-driven longevity programs
• Germany and Austria feature notable destinations, including Villa Stephanie in Baden-Baden and the eco-luxury Bio Hotel Stanglwirt
• Thailand hosts world-renowned retreats like Chiva-Som and Kamalaya, specializing in detox and emotional healing
• Unique global options include Ananda in the Himalayas, Bushman's Kloof in South Africa, and the Arctic Bath Hotel in Sweden
• The Blue Lagoon in Iceland provides exceptional mineral-rich waters for skin rejuvenation and relaxation
• Next episode will explore Mineral Wells, the wellness capital of Texas

Please subscribe, rate, and share our podcast with your friends. Like and follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X at TheROAMies. Visit our website at www.TheROAMies.com.

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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.