Vacation Station

Join us on Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" podcast, airing every 4th Saturday, as historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows shares his recent experiences in Dublin, Ireland. From visiting the Jeannie Johnston ship, which never lost a passenger during its famine voyages, to exploring the General Post Office, the site of the 1916 Easter Rising, Glynn delves into Dublin’s powerful legacy and cultural significance.

This conversation also celebrates World Tourism Day and Ancestor Appreciation Day, reflecting on how travel fosters cultural understanding and how exploring our roots deepens our connection to history. From music as a soulful storytelling tradition to the flavors that shape community identity, this episode highlights how heritage lives on in everyday experiences.

🔗 Learn more:

✨ Takeaways:

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

It’s time for Fall Fun on the Historic Jefferson Highway! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show, we celebrate autumn travel along the “Pines to Palms Highway”, stretching from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana.

Featured guests share the unique charm, seasonal beauty, and vibrant community spirit that make the Jefferson Highway an unforgettable fall road trip experience:

- Beth Hilburn – Owner of the Hi-Way Café & Western Motel in Vinita, Oklahoma. 

- Aaron Perry & Cassandra Ringel – Owners of Gearhead Curios & Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas. Visit: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/gearhead-curios-and-petrol-motor-quart/# 

- Glenda Smith – Owatonna Chamber of Commerce & Tourism in Minnesota. Visit Owatonna: https://visitowatonna.org/ 

From local cafes and culinary events to vintage roadside attractions, community festivals, and fall landscapes, this conversation highlights how small towns along the Jefferson Highway bring together history, culture, and hospitality. The guests also share their stories of community engagement, historic preservation, and the creative ways they attract travelers looking for authentic, nostalgic road trip experiences.

🚗 The Jefferson Highway, known as the “Pines to Palms Highway,” stretches from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana, weaving through communities with deep historical roots and cultural pride.

🔗 Learn more: Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

🔗 Sign up for updates on Jefferson Highway maps, the travel directory, and the upcoming travel guide: https://jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 

📅 This podcast airs every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST (except holidays). Follow the show here: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Travel journalist and author Kristy Tolley joins Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station podcast to talk about her new book, 100 Things to Do in North Carolina Before You Die. From fall foliage and food trails to hidden gems, historic landmarks, music heritage, and coastal escapes, Kristy shares highlights from across the Tar Heel State and insider tips for creating unforgettable adventures.

We first connected with Kristy on our Adventures in Asheville podcast with Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, when she released 100 Things to Do in Asheville Before You Die. Listen to that episode here: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/23-must-do-experiences-in-asheville-in-2023/ 

👉 Get Kristy’s Book: https://www.reedypress.com/shop/100-things-to-do-in-north-carolina-before-you-die 

👉 Follow Kristy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristytolley 

✨ Takeaways from this episode:

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone,” travel writer Debbie Stone shares her rejuvenating experience at The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.

From soaking in the mineral-rich hot springs to enjoying spa treatments, unique aqua activities, and delicious culinary options, Debbie highlights the restorative power of wellness travel. She also reflects on the importance of sleep, relaxation, and self-care, especially during the hectic holiday season.

📌 Key Takeaways:

📖 Read Debbie’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/experience-a-wellness-mecca-at-the-springs-resort-spa/ 

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

🎙️ Thsi episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life” and “Vacation Station” Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrate the magic of fall and the richness of Hispanic Heritage Month with us as we journey through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Show, travel writer Terrie Guthrie explores the spectacular Autumn at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden: ¡Mundo México! event, running from Sept. 20 through Nov. 2, 2025.

The conversation highlights how the Dallas Arboretum, a premier fall attraction, has been transformed with over 110,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash to create an unprecedented celebration of Mexican living culture, contemporary art, and biodiversity. We delve into the stunning pumpkin village, creative art installations, and the importance of this event in fostering community engagement and creating lasting family memories. Discover why this immersive cultural experience positions Dallas as a national destination for cultural tourism.

Key Takeaways:

For more information and to plan your visit, check out the official Dallas Arboretum website: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/ 

Follow Terri’s adventures:

🎙️ Listen to Travel with Terri weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/  

🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Garden Gossip, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In celebration of Bourbon Heritage Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Road Trip Radio Show takes you on a dog-friendly journey along Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail.

Featured guests Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” podcast, share their experiences traveling with their dog to iconic distilleries including Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, Wild Turkey, and Preservation Distillery. Along the way, they highlight the pet-friendly Bourbon Barrel Cottages, the rich heritage of Buffalo Trace, and the growing international appeal of bourbon tourism.

You’ll also hear from Jay Ballard of Bourbon Barrel Cottages about their accommodations, tours, and event spaces, plus Lynn Aubrey of Buffalo Trace Distillery who shares the history and current visitor experience at America’s oldest continuously operating distillery.

This lively conversation blends travel, history, bourbon, and hospitality with great tips for planning a Kentucky getaway — especially for those traveling with pets.

📝 Read Steve & Karen’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-ultimate-dog-friendly-road-trip-on-the-kentucky-bourbon-trail/  

🎙️ Featured Guests

*Jay Ballard – Overview of Bourbon Barrel Cottages and tour options, plus their event facilities. 🌐 https://www.bourbonbarrelcottages.com/  

* Lynn Aubrey – Insights on the history of Buffalo Trace Distillery and the current visitor experience at the oldest continuously operating distillery in the U.S. 🌐 https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/  

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

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans shares the fun, flavor, and festivities of Coastal Mississippi in the fall and winter seasons. From the brand-new Amtrak service connecting the region to New Orleans, to lively events like the Cruisin’ the Coast classic car celebration, the Hummingbird Festival, the Peter Anderson Festival, and the sparkling Gulfport Harbor Lights Festival, this episode is all about culture, history, and community spirit on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Lisa also talks about exploring historic landmarks like Beauvoir and its Fall Muster Civil War reenactments, and shares how the Coastal Mississippi Attractions Pass helps visitors get the most out of their trip. Whether you’re arriving by train or car, this vibrant region is ready to welcome travelers looking for adventure, artistry, and holiday magic.

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

🗺️ Coastal Mississippi Travel Resources:

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

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST

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

Join us for a deep dive into the heart of Texas culture with a special episode dedicated to the Texas State Fair! In this conversation, travel writer Terri Guthrie explores the rich history, endless entertainment, and famous food that make the fair a beloved annual event. 

Learn why this tradition has been a Texas institution since 1886 and how it promotes community involvement and local agriculture. From the iconic Big Tex to the unique culinary creations and diverse music festival, Terri covers all the must-see highlights. Plus, she shares essential tips for planning your visit to fully experience everything the fair has to offer. The Texas State Fair runs from September 26 - October 19, 2025.

Key Takeaways:

For more information and to plan your visit, check out the official Texas State Fair website: https://bigtex.com/ 

Follow Terri’s adventures:

🎙️ Listen to Travel with Terri weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features award-winning author, globe-trotting adventurer, and veteran oncology nurse Inga Aksamit. She shares her insights into the rich cultural diversity, natural beauty, and culinary wonders of Indonesia beyond Bali.

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers travelers vibrant marine life, coral reefs, unique cultural traditions, and regional cuisines that make every destination an adventure. Inga highlights lesser-known islands, the importance of sustainable tourism, and the value of respecting local cultures while traveling. She also shares her perspective on travel writing, managing inter-island logistics, and the role of organizations like IFWTWA in supporting travel writers.

📖 Read Inga’s stories about exploring Indonesia:

🌐 Follow Inga’s adventures: https://ingasadventures.com/ 

Travel writer and photographer Jo Clark takes us to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, a charming destination known for its family-friendly vibe, culinary adventures, cultural attractions, and nature experiences. From spotting dolphins and manatees to tasting salty mangrove honey and exploring art galleries, Jo shares a well-rounded guide to this laid-back coastal community.

You’ll hear about the area’s delicious seafood, unique museums, seasonal events, and accommodations that make New Smyrna Beach an ideal spot for both family vacations and romantic getaways.

📖 Read Jo's Article: https://recipestravelculture.com/new-smyrna-beach-endless-salty-sunshine/ 

🌴 Plan your trip: https://www.visitnsbfl.com/ 

🌍 Follow Jo's Travels:

🗓️ “Jo Goes Everywhere!” airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST on Big Blend Radio. Listen & Subscribe: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend’s Vacation Station and Parks & Travel podcast channels. Explore the network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork