Vacation Station

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food Wine & Travel" Show with International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, travel writer and photographer Cori Solomon joins the show to explore the rich agricultural roots, evolving wine scene, and vibrant community of Morgan Hill, California. From its early farming history—including the once-thriving mushroom industry—to today’s sustainable wineries and farm-to-table dining culture, Morgan Hill reveals itself as a destination deeply connected to the land.

Cori shares insights from her travels and reporting, highlighting how local winemakers, chefs, and growers work together to shape the region’s identity. The conversation also touches on the role of the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) in fostering professional connections and storytelling that brings destinations like Morgan Hill to life.

Cori Solomon is an award-winning writer and photographer based in Los Angeles. Her blog, The Written Palette, features eclectic stories focused on travel, wine, art, architecture, and pets—always uncovering the story behind the chef, winery, winemaker, or artist. She serves as President and Membership Chair of IFWTWA and is a member of NATJA, SATW, CWA, and DWAA. Learn more about Cori and her work:

📰 Cori’s Morgan Hill story is also featured in the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

🌐 Plan Your Morgan Hill Adventure: https://visitmorganhill.org/ 

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 

🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 

🌐 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer explores the beauty, culture, and unexpected magic of Chicago in winter. From iconic architecture and public art to deep-dish pizza and legendary blues music, this conversation highlights why the Windy City shines year-round—especially in the off-season.

Rose shares budget-friendly travel tips, including visiting during winter for hotel savings, using City Pass for attractions, and discovering Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods through their food scenes. Hear about the city’s rich museum offerings, accessible public art, and cultural celebrations that reflect Chicago’s vibrant community spirit.

With the right clothing and mindset, winter travel can be both rewarding and inspiring—and Chicago proves it with world-class culture, unforgettable food, and a warmth that goes far beyond the temperature.

📖 Read Rose’s Article "Chicago on a Budget: A Winter Weekend Break": 

🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 

🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 

📲 This episode is also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station" & "Big Daily Blend" Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz explores the vibrant coastal city of Corpus Christi, Texas, where sun, sea, culture, and history come together.

From horseback riding on the beach and fishing along the coast to visiting the South Texas State Aquarium, Sharon shares firsthand experiences that showcase the city’s outdoor lifestyle and natural beauty. 

The conversation also dives into Corpus Christi’s rich cultural heritage, including the USS Lexington, Selena Museum and Memorial, and nearby King Ranch, one of Texas’ most iconic historic sites. Add in a thriving arts scene with mural trails and art walks, plus a delicious mix of seafood, barbecue, and local cuisine, and Corpus Christi emerges as a destination that rejuvenates the spirit year-round—especially during the quieter shoulder seasons.

* Plan your visit to Corpus Christi: https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/ 

* Read Sharon’s “Corpus Christi” article on Substack: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/discovering-corpus-christi 

* Check out her new Big Blend "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine:

* Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz:

* Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:

* This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," and "Way Back When" podcast channels:

Recorded on location at the Oklahoma Historical Society, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Podcast celebrates the Route 66 Centennial in 2026 and explores why Oklahoma is considered the heart of the Mother Road.

Travel writer and host Terri Guthrie is joined by Trait Thompson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Historical Society and a board member of both the Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission and the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission. Together, they dive into the cultural, historical, and emotional legacy of Route 66—from its role during the Great Depression to its lasting symbolism of freedom, mobility, and Americana.

The conversation highlights Oklahoma’s 400+ mile stretch of Route 66, the towns and museums that preserve its stories, the revival of neon signage, and how modern travelers can experience the route beyond the interstate. This episode also explores family road trips, ancestry travel, and the community-driven efforts breathing new life into the Mother Road ahead of its 100th anniversary.

OKLAHOMA ROUTE 66 TRAVEL RESOURCES

FOLLOW TERRI'S ADVENTURES

 LISTEN 

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show," host Linda Kissam, the Food, Wine & Shopping Diva, welcomes Annette Pitts, CEO of Visit Casper, to explore why Casper, Wyoming is an ideal road tripping destination packed with outdoor adventure, history, arts, culture, and culinary experiences.

Centrally located in Wyoming, Casper makes an easy and rewarding stop for travelers seeking wide-open landscapes and authentic Western charm. Linda and Annette dive into fly fishing on the North Platte River, scenic picnics and photography in Fremont Canyon, and the area’s deep historical roots tied to the Oregon Trail and Pony Express.

The conversation also highlights Casper’s growing culinary scene, unique downtown shopping, vibrant arts community, and cultural events such as rodeos and Indian relay races. From hiking, skiing, wildlife photography, and camping to boutique lodging, RVing, and local festivals, this episode showcases the diverse experiences that make Casper a must-visit destination.

📖 Read Linda’s article on Casper: https://open.substack.com/pub/vacationstationtravel/p/discovering-casper  

🔗 Learn more about Casper, Wyoming and start planning your visit:

🔗 Explore more episodes featuring Linda Kissam:

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures:

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Road Trip Radio," "Parks & Travel," and "Vacation Station" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network:

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California’s Sequoia Country” podcast explores the incredible federal parks and public lands of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, the Giant Sequoia National Monument, and Pixley National Wildlife Refuge. From towering giant sequoias and rich wildlife habitats to cultural heritage and night skies, discover what makes this region so special.

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:

This conversation delves into the natural wonders, history, and biodiversity of California’s Sequoia Country. Highlights include the General Grant Tree, a national shrine honoring veterans, birding during migration seasons, iconic places like Crescent Meadow, the Trail of 100 Giants, and Crystal Cave, as well as seasonal tips for winter and spring visits. The episode also touches on Indigenous cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and special events like the Dark Sky Festival, inviting listeners to experience these public lands responsibly and respectfully. 

Plan your visit: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 

This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station," and "Nature Connection" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Select Photos courtesy of Visit Visalia. 

Cruise travel continues to evolve, and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year at sea and along the world’s rivers. This episode of Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station Travel and Leisure Show explores cruising ideas for 2026, from river cruising to culinary adventures, educational experiences, and new ways to travel solo.

Featuring insights from travel writers, cruise travelers, speakers, and a travel advisor, the conversation covers gastronomy-themed cruises in Europe, immersive river cruises in Asia and the U.S., Norwegian fjord voyages, family-friendly Disney cruises, and the laid-back fun of Margaritaville at Sea. The episode also highlights the growing role of educational programming on cruise ships and why working with a travel advisor can save time, money, and stress when planning a cruise.

👥 FEATURED GUESTS

🔗 ARTICLES & RESOURCES

🎧 SUPPORT EDUCATION IN AFRICA & MEXICO:

From street food to fine wine, this lively group conversation explores the rich, diverse, and often misunderstood world of African cuisine through the eyes (and appetites) of seasoned travelers, writers, and food experts. Our guests share personal travel stories, cultural insights, and memorable meals from across the African continent — from communal barbecue traditions and local produce to food safety tips, traditional breakfasts, and iconic flavors like Amarula and South African wines.

The discussion highlights how history, colonial influence, geography, and local ingredients shape regional foodways, while emphasizing why the term “African food” barely scratches the surface. With stories ranging from home-cooked meals to adventurous street food encounters, this episode is a flavorful reminder that understanding a destination often begins at the table.

👥 GUESTS – GROUP DISCUSSION

• Elsa Dixon (Van der Byl) – Travel Writer & Author

• Judy Karnia – Travel Writer & Forest Bathing Guide

🎧GUESTS - SOLO SEGMENTS

• Robert Schueller – Melissa’s Produce

• Linda Ballou – Travel Writer & Author

• James Michael Dorsey – Naturalist & Author

• Debbie Stone – Travel Writer & Photographer

SUPPORT EDUCATION IN AFRICA: Visit https://TheGlobalHenry.org to support the Steppes of Henry Foundation. By purchasing the books of late world traveler and author Henry Biernacki, you help fund tuition, school uniforms, and shoes for girls in need in Africa and Mexico. 100% of proceeds go directly to the children. 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" Podcast with travel writer Debbie Stone explores Catania, Sicily, a city defined by resilience, tradition, and a fascinating blend of beauty and grit.

Set in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania’s story is shaped by volcanic eruptions, deep-rooted faith, and a strong sense of community. Debbie explores the cultural importance of Saint Agatha, the folklore surrounding the Elephant Fountain, and the city’s vibrant street food and market scene, including the must-try Pasta alla Norma. From underground ruins to UNESCO-recognized architecture, this episode reveals why Catania is one of Sicily’s most compelling destinations.

📖 Read Debbie’s story on Substack: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/captivating-catania 

📖 Check out the story and more in her new Global Adventures Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/ 

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station" and "Way Back When" podcast channels.  Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” show, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares seven inspiring travel picks for 2026, encouraging listeners to plan ahead and explore destinations that offer unforgettable landscapes, outdoor adventures, and meaningful travel experiences.

From Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road and the alpine charm of Telluride, Colorado, to the wild beauty of Glacier Bay, Alaska, the red rock magic of Sedona, epic wildlife encounters in Botswana, autumn splendor in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and the volcanic landscapes of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Linda highlights what makes each destination special and why now is the time to start dreaming—and planning—your next adventure.

📝 Read Linda’s travel article:

🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:

🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST

🎨 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Parks & Travel” Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Photo courtesy Linda Ballou & Big Island Visitor Bureau