Vacation Station

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon,” award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us on a captivating train journey through beautiful Bavaria.  Exploring at her own pace, Sharon visits historic cities, spa towns, wine regions, and cultural landmarks — all while reflecting on how travel deepens our understanding of history and broadens our connection to the world.

From Nuremberg’s profound World War II history to the wellness traditions of Bad Kissingen, the opulence of Bayreuth, the wine heritage of Würzburg, and the beer culture of Bamberg, Sharon reveals the many layers that make Bavaria such a rich and rewarding destination. Her journey also explores the medieval magic of Rothenburg, the region’s architectural treasures, and the importance of remembrance at historical sites. Whether traveling solo or with others, Sharon shows how exploring Bavaria by train offers unmatched flexibility, insight, and inspiration.

📝 Read Sharon’s “All Aboard Bavaria!” article in the all-new Big Blend Wander the World Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1 

🌍 Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz and her global adventures: https://sharonkkurtz.com 

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

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

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" show, cohosts Steve and Karen Wilson, innkeepers of The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast in Montford Historic District, share a fun and festive roundup of winter experiences you won’t want to miss. From Asheville’s growing reputation as a music destination—including a recent music video by Stone Whiskey filmed at the inn—to the city’s seasonal magic, this episode highlights the best ways to embrace winter in the Western North Carolina section of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Discover snow tubing and ice skating spots, the enchanting Winter Lights and Trolls at The North Carolina Arboretum, the famous Grove Park Inn Gingerbread Competition, and Asheville’s wellness side with salt caves and foot sanctuaries. The conversation also celebrates the city’s breweries, dog-friendly culture, and the importance of supporting local businesses with gift certificates during the holiday season. Plus, learn why The Lion and the Rose B&B is ideal for winter getaways, reunions, and group stays.

* Learn more about The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast – https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

In this festive episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" Show, Terri Guthrie explores Branson, Missouri, celebrating winter holidays, family fun, and classic Americana adventures. She’s joined by two special guests: Olivia Reinke from Explore Branson, and Sophia Meltke from The Ozarker Lodge.

Together, they dive into what makes Branson a magical, family-friendly destination during the holiday season — from sparkling light displays and nostalgic traditions to outdoor adventures, heartwarming entertainment, and the cozy charm of The Ozarker Lodge, perfect for unplugging and reconnecting.

The conversation also touches on Branson’s multi-generational appeal, signature attractions, festive events, local cuisine, and the rich sense of Americana that defines this iconic Ozarks town. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or looking for year-round family travel inspiration, this episode captures the spirit of Branson at its most festive.

LINKS & RESOURCES

This special episode of the Jefferson Highway Podcast celebrates 110 years since Edwin T. Meredith first launched the idea of the Jefferson Highway, the historic “Pine to Palm” route connecting Winnipeg to New Orleans. 

Cohost Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, joins the conversation to explore the highway’s history, the early challenges in its creation, the role of community participation, and the ongoing mission to map, preserve, and promote this international heritage road.

Learn how traveling the Jefferson Highway supports small towns, preserves historic corridors, and continues America’s tradition of discovery through road-tripping and cultural connection. Visit the Jefferson Highway Association at https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

We also highlight two major new resources now available for modern travelers:

📰 NEW: Jefferson Highway Dispatch – Our new Substack publication offering traveler insights, historical stories, updates from the road, special features, and community spotlights. Subscribe: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ 

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

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Global Adventures with Debbie Stone, we celebrate an exciting milestone — the launch of Debbie’s brand-new Global Adventures Digital Magazine, where each podcast episode now integrates with her immersive travel stories and photography.

This week, Debbie takes listeners on a dazzling journey through Morocco, based on her recent private tour with Wilderness Travel. From the Imperial cities of Rabat and Fez to the sweeping sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, Debbie recounts “pinch-me” moments filled with history, culture, culinary discoveries, and the genuine warmth of Moroccan hospitality.

She also shares smart travel tips, insights into local customs, and stories from unique accommodations that elevated her Moroccan adventure into something extraordinary.

🌍 Read the Morocco feature in her new Global Adventures Magazine:

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

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

Experience the magic of Christmas in Paris in this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show. Terri shares what makes the City of Lights one of the most enchanting and romantic destinations during the holiday season.

From sparkling Eiffel Tower nights to cozy Christmas markets, decadent Parisian hot chocolate, iconic churches, romantic proposal spots, and unforgettable Seine River views, this conversation captures the full wonder of Paris at Christmastime. You’ll also hear personal anecdotes, cultural highlights, and insider recommendations for making the most of a holiday visit to this world-famous city.

⭐ KEY TAKEAWAYS

🎧 New episodes of "Travel with Terri" air on Tuesdays: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

✨ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station" and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Join historian and UK tour guide Glynn Burrows of Norfolk Tours for a fascinating journey through the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Windsor Castle and nearby Runnymede, the birthplace of the Magna Carta. From medieval fortifications to royal traditions, Glynn explains what makes Windsor Castle such an extraordinary place to visit — and what travelers should know before they go.

He also touches on the importance of respecting historical sites, why Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace serve very different purposes, and what makes the Magna Carta at Runnymede a cornerstone of democratic history.

Read Glynn’s full article:

Learn more about Glynn & book a custom tour:

Listen to Glynn’s monthly podcast (airs every 4th Saturday):

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

Celebrate the season of giving with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” show, where adventurer and author Linda Ballou shares a curated list of her favorite travel and adventure books—perfect holiday gifts for the explorers in your life.

Linda discusses why these narratives resonate with readers, how they inspire real-world adventures, and what makes storytelling such a powerful tool for connecting to nature, culture, and personal growth. She also reflects on the unique contributions women bring to adventure writing and reads an excerpt from her own book, “Lost Angel Unleashed: Stories from the Heart.”

📚 Books Featured in This Episode:

📝 Read Linda’s article with more adventure book gift ideas:

🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:

🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST.  Subscribe: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 

🎙️This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” "Parks & Travel," and “Big Daily Blend” Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans continues her Canadian adventures as she explores the Indigenous history, cultural heritage, and natural wonders of New Brunswick. 

From learning with First Nations Storytellers to experiencing the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy, Lisa uncovers powerful histories, geological marvels, and heartfelt community stories. Highlights include a visit to St. Martins Sea Caves, the scenic Fundy Trail Parkway, the tidal-access-only Ministers Island, and historic Partridge Island, along with delicious coastal cuisine and memorable local encounters.

Destinations featured: St. Martins, Bay of Fundy, Hopewell Rocks, Ministers Island, Partridge Island, Beaver Harbor, Fundy Trail Parkway, Saint John area. 

Listen to Part One of Lisa's Canadian Journey: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/e/st-john-new-brunswick/ 

Travel Resources & Links Mentioned:

🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by travel:

📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday  

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes us on a journey through the heart of Missouri, focusing on the vibrant city of Springfield, famously known as the birthplace of Route 66. Join us as we explore the rich history of America's Mother Road, celebrate the annual vintage car festival, and reminisce about cherished family road trips to destinations like Branson.

We dive into the must-see attractions, from the massive, original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and the highly-rated Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, to the natural wonders of the "Cave State," where you can take a unique ride-through tour at Fantastic Caverns. Finally, we uncover Springfield's surprising and diverse culinary scene, including the exceptional dining at Hotel Vandivort. It's an episode packed with history, nature, and adventure! 

🎧 New episodes of "Travel with Terri" air on Tuesdays: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

✨ In celebration of Geography Awareness Week (November 17–21), this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Road Trip Radio," “Vacation Station," and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork