In this Trip Fails Minisodes episode, we’re diving into three mini Trip Fails stories that didn’t quite go as planned.

First, Katie shares her experience at The Kingsley in Bloomfield Hills, MI in November 2024 - a hotel that gives off swanky boutique vibes but, surprise… it’s actually a DoubleTree by Hilton in disguise. Spoiler: the experience didn’t match the luxury look.

Next, Tali recounts how she got stuck in a timeshare scam at Westgate Orlando Lakes in 2018, learning the hard way why those "free gifts" aren’t always worth it.

And finally, Laura shares why Great Wolf Lodge Poconos Mountains left her family underwhelmed in August 2021. But don’t worry—we’re also giving you two alternative indoor waterparks that actually live up to the hype!

Mentioned in this episode:
- The Kingsley Bloomfield Hills - a DoubleTree by Hilton
- Detroit, Royal Oaks, Troy, Birmingham, & Bloomfield Hills areas of Michigan
- Courtyard by Marriott - Courtyard Detroit Troy, Michigan
- Westgate Lakes Orlando
- 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles about David & Jackie Siegel (owners of Westgate Resorts) attempt to build the largest single family home in the U.S
- Great Wolf Lodge Poconos Mountains
- Soundwaves Waterpark at Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN
- Hershey Lodge in Hershey, PA

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

Kelsey sits down with Faith, a seasoned Turks & Caicos traveler who has visited three times (May 2019, May 2022, and May 2023) - and loved Seven Stars Resort so much, she’s returned twice. Faith shares why this boutique-style resort stands out, from its swanky yet serene atmosphere to its top-tier hospitality, family-friendly vibe, and unbeatable location on Grace Bay Beach. Plus, she dives into the best restaurants (including a Kardashian fav!) and must-do excursions across the island, giving you everything you need to plan the ultimate Turks & Caicos getaway!

Mentioned in this episode:

- Beaches Turks & Caicos
- Travel Agent Rachel Lackey with Vacations Booked
- Book Seven Stars Resort on Black Friday or Cyber Monday
- Marriott Credit Card & Marriott Points
- The Palms Turks & Caicos Spa
- Seven Stars restaurants: Seven, The Deck, The Farm
- Off property restaurants: Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar at Grace Bay Club, Magnolia Restaurant & Wine Bar, Coco Bistro, Da Conch Shack (a Kardashian fav), local Turks & Caicos Fish Fry, Mr. Grouper's, Omar's Beach Hut
- Excursion companies: Caicos Dreams (private boat tour), Big Blue Collective (Kayaking Mangrove Eco Tour spotting turtles and iguanas), Island Vibes Tours (popular half-day tours from resorts with snorkeling, Iguana Island, and rum punch!)
- Fun Facts With Faith: Jojo the Dolphin

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

Kelsey chats with Jessica from the Sugar Daddy Podcast about her family's Christmas trip to Panama! Jessica, her husband, and their two kids spent a week in December 2024 exploring the country's beaches, rainforest, and vibrant Old Town Panama City. From spotting monkeys and sloths in the wild to soaking up the local culture, they fell in love with Panama—and they're already talking about a return trip!

Mentioned in this episode:
- Copa Airlines
- Westin Playa Bonita - Executive Club Level
- Gamboa Rainforest Reserve: Aerial Tram, Panama Canal Boat Tour, Sloth Sanctuary, Butterfly Garden, Capybaras
- The W Panama
- Global Entry
- Sabroso Panama - dinner and a show
- Super Gourmet Restaurant Cafe - coffee shop, empanadas
- Casco Viejo, Old Town historic district of Panama City
- Raspado - shaved ice in Panama
- Mola Museum
- Fine Hotels + Resorts with American Express
- Taboga Island
- Biomuseo
- Cinta Costera - roadway bridge & pedestrian bridge
- Historic Sofitel Legend Hotel, Casco Viejo Panama City
- Monkey Island
- Panama Canal Museum

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

Kelsey chats with Genni from @travelingfranklins on Instagram, the Traveling Franklins blog, and the popular Lazy Budget Travel Tips Facebook Group. Genni shares the story of how she treated her mom to an unforgettable retirement trip to Spain, using points and miles, in May 2024.

They flew business class, and visited Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona. From the delicious food to Spain's rich culture and spectacular architecture, this trip was one for the books. Tune in to hear all about their adventures, Genni’s tips for using points and miles to make travel more affordable, and why Spain is the perfect destination for a celebratory getaway.

Mentioned in this episode:
- Traveling Franklins blog post: How to Claim Back VAT Tax in Spain
- Business Class on Iberia Airlines to Madrid
- MADRID: Plaza de Espana, Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado), artist Francisco Goya, Puerta del Sol, shopping at Casa de Diego, Los Angeles restaurant, Hyatt Centric Madrid (Hyatt Centric Gran Via Madrid), Camper shoe store, San Gines chocolate and churros (Chocolateria San Gines), Valor Chocolate (Chocolateria Valor)
- SEVILLE: Sevilla, Andalusia region, Petit Palace Puerta de Triana, Flamenco dancing, Teatro Flamenco Sevilla, Royal Alcazar Palace, Cathedral of Seville, Game of Thrones filming location, remains of Christopher Columbus, La Brunilda Tapas
- BARCELONA: Hotel HCC Montblanc, Gothic Quarter, Caganer: The Pooper Store, Barceloneta Beach, Gaudi, Basilica de Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, Palau de la Musica Catalan, Ohla Barcelona restaurant, paella

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

Kelsey sits down with Joy Smith from @savvytravelmamas to hear all about her mother-son adventure in July 2024. Joy shares how this trip led them to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and colors she’s ever seen! From the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend to the striking Vermilion Cliffs and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, every stop had breathtaking views. They also explored nostalgic Route 66 and wrapped up their journey in Las Vegas. 

Mentioned in this episode:

• Joy's Points Travel Academy
• 4th Grade National Park Pass
• Valley of Fire State Park
• Coral Pink Sand State Park
• IHG and Holiday Inn on points
• North Rim (Jacob Lake Inn cookies!) and South Rim of the Grand Canyon with kids
• Horseshoe Bend, Vermillion Cliffs, Cliff Dwellers
• Pink Jeep Tour in Grand Canyon
• Sedona, AZ: McDonald's with blue arches, Chapel of the Holy Cross
• Route 66: Inspiration for Disney movie Cars, Williams and Seligman, Arizona, Poozeum
• New York, New York hotel in Las Vegas with kids

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

In this episode of Trip Tales, Kelsey shares all the details from her family’s  winter getaway to Park City, Utah! Tune in as she recaps why skiing on The Canyons side of Park City Mountain Resort is their favorite.

But it wasn’t all smooth skiing! Kelsey dives into how they navigated the unexpected Ski Patrol Strike and what it meant for their time on the slopes. Plus, she shares their go-to restaurants and how they rang in the New Year in Park City.

Mentioned in this episode:

• My ski outfit: Amazon White Ski Bibs, Tipsy Elves Retro Ski Jacket, ThermaJane Long Johns, Hestra Mittens (Size 8), White Ski Helmet (Size L), BlackStrap Ski Mask, Ski Goggles
• Favorite family games: It's In The Bag, Flip 7
• Restaurants mentioned: Red Tail Grill, Drafts Burger Bar, Billy Blanco's, Lookout Cabin, Pine Cone Ridge, Park City Roadhouse Grill, Main St. Pizza & Noodle, Edge Steakhouse
• Hotels in the Canyons Village: Westgate Resort, Hyatt Centric, The Summit, The Sundial, The Pendry, Yotel Pad
• Westgate Presidential Suite booked through StayLuxe Park City
• Bootworks bootfitters in Park City, shin bang, Lange ski boots

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

After the buzz (and backlash) from Episode 36, where a guest shared their disappointing experience at Beaches Turks & Caicos, two passionate listeners reached out to set the record straight. They love this resort and consider it the ultimate family all-inclusive destination—and they’re here to tell you why.

In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Kari, a loyal podcast listener who has visited Beaches Turks & Caicos twice with her family and already has her third trip booked. Joining her is Stephanie Howard from Traveling Ears Vacations, a travel agent and Beaches expert who has visited the resort seven times and helped countless families plan their dream vacations.

Listen as Kari and Stephanie share their personal experiences, the highlights that keep their kids begging to return, and why they believe Beaches Turks & Caicos deserves a second look. Whether you're a skeptic after Episode 36 or considering this resort for your next family getaway, this passionate rebuttal is full of insights and tips that might just change your mind.

Tune in for a lively discussion on why this resort remains a beloved favorite for so many families!

Mentioned in this episode:

• Stephanie Howard's travel agency Traveling Ears Vacations and Instagram account @travelingearsvacations
• An overview of the different Beaches Turks & Caicos villages: French, Caribbean, Seaside, Italian and Key West
• Snorkeling in Turks & Caicos
• Kids Clubs
• Butlers
• A rundown of ALL the restaurants
• A preview of of the brand new Treasure Beach Villas area

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

In this episode of Trip Tales, Kelsey sits down with Rosie from Venture's Valentina to explore her deep love for Riviera Maya, Mexico. Having visited the area six times, Rosie shares why Secrets Akumal stands out as her favorite adults-only resort. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist spots, Secrets Akumal offers a true escape with its romantic, laid-back vibe.

Rosie dives into what makes this resort so special, from its stunning, serene beach—one of the best in the region—to its sea turtle nesting grounds (Akumal means "Place of the Turtles" in Mayan). She also raves about the resort’s spa and snorkeling alongside sea turtles. 

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

In this milestone 40th episode, Kelsey is taking you back to her 40th Birthday Girls Trip to the all-inclusive Atelier Playa Mujeres in Mexico! 

Joining her are her besties who shared the adventure in February 2023, and together they’re dishing on all the hilarious stories, shenanigans, and unforgettable moments from the trip. From the food and cocktails to insider resort tips, parasailing, and poolside laughs, this episode is packed with everything you need to know about this destination.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Travel Agent Rachel Stovall from Haven Escape Travel
• Other Cancun all-inclusive resorts that we considered: Unico, Hyatt Zilara, and Secret Maroma
• Cancun Airport & Global Entry
• Transfer companies: Mayaland & LOMAS
• The difference between Building 1, 2, and 3
• Restaurants: Suspiro, Cilento, Cielo (Sky Bar), Abrazos, Maria Dolores
• 40th Birthday Girl's Trip Goodies: Personalized Floppy Beach Hat, 40 Never Looked So Good Trucker Hat, Sarong Cover-Up Wrap, Rose Gold Beverage Cup, Sombrero Photo Swizzle Sticks, Customized Turkish Towels
• Live video feed of main pool at Atelier: https://atelierdehoteles.com/atelier-playa-mujeres-photos-and-videos-gallery
• Inspira rooms, NUUP Spa, Parasailing

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

In this episode of Trip Tales, Kelsey shares all the details from her recent Thanksgiving trip to 30A Florida. From the best (and worst) places to stay to her favorite restaurants and must-try activities, she gives an honest rundown to help you plan your own visit to this beautiful coastal area. Plus, she reveals the family games that made their holiday extra fun!

Mentioned in this episode:

• EDIT: The best donut place on 30A is called DONUT HOLE (not Donut Den as I say in the episode)
• 30A Communities: Seaside, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Watersound, Watercolor, Seacrest
• The house we rented: Namastay on 30A
• The Big Chill
• Pier Park Panama City
• Top restaurants all in Alys Beach: George's, Citizen, O-Ku Sushi, Fonville Press
• Dusty's Oyster Bar in Panama City Beach
• A Wicked movie moment!
• Shannon Braswell Photography
• Favorite family games: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, Santa Cookie Elf Candy Snowman, It's in the Bag, Blank Slate
• Origins Golf Course in Watersound
• The Seaside Style shirts & sweatshirts - use code SEASIDEVIP

SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves
FOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTok
SHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.
SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: [email protected]
PARTNER DISCOUNT CODES
Bling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEY

SPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit.

CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.