Vacation Station

This episode of Big Blend Radio features a fascinating panel discussion with five seasoned travel writers who share stories and insights from charming historic destinations across the U.S. and abroad. From the soulful streets of Coimbra, Portugal, to the haunted hotels of Granbury, Texas, the conversation celebrates the value of small businesses, historic preservation, cultural richness, and community vitality.

🎙️ Featured Guests 

🔗 Explore the Places Mentioned

* Santa Fe, New Mexico:

* Granbury, Texas: https://fyi50plus.com/granbury-voted-best-historic-small-town-of-2025/ 

* Fredericksburg, Texas: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-visit-to-fredericksburg-in-the-texas-hill-country/ 

* Kennett Square, Pennsylvania: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discovering-chester-countys-brandywine-valley/ 

* Snoqualmie & Suncadia, Washington:

* Coimbra, Portugal: https://travelingnature.com/5-best-towns-to-explore-on-your-trip-to-lisbon/ 

⏱️ Chapters

📰 This is the final episode in our July series celebrating Independent Retailer Month, but stay tuned — we’ll continue exploring more historic downtowns, main streets, and village destinations in upcoming shows. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter at https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/join-our-newsletter/ to get updates and our special digital magazine coming in November. 

Join us for Part 1 of "Handlebar Highlights," an exhilarating journey into American Cycling Adventures! In celebration of National Parks & Recreation Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show features renowned travel writer Terri Guthrie. She shares her personal experiences and insights from some of the most iconic bike rides across America.

Discover the unparalleled joys and unique challenges of cycling through diverse landscapes – from the breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the serene paths of Austin’s Lady Bird Lake and Northern Michigan’s beautiful Leelanau Trail. Terri also delves into the historical significance of routes like the Natchez Trace Parkway and highlights the vibrant cycling cultures found in major cities such as Washington D.C. and New York City.

Whether you're an avid cyclist or simply love to explore, this episode offers inspiration and practical tips for experiencing the beauty of America on two wheels.

Key Takeaways:

Where to Learn More:

Part 2 of 3 in our “Main Streets, Villages, Historic Downtowns & Plazas” series celebrating Independent Retailer Month!

This episode of Big Blend Radio features a lively panel discussion exploring the vital role of Main Streets and historic downtowns in shaping community identity, boosting local economies, and enhancing cultural tourism. From the preservation of architecture and museums to the rise of food trails, local bookstores, and festivals, our guests highlight how small-town authenticity and community engagement drive revitalization and lasting impact.

🎧 Panel Guests:

🕰️ Chapters:

🔗 Explore the Places Mentioned:

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

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “English Connection” with Glynn Burrows—historian and owner of Norfolk Tours—explores the unique charm and cultural richness of England’s small towns and villages. From quaint pubs and vibrant village greens to the culinary traditions and walking paths that connect communities, Glynn highlights how these rural areas are vital to the nation’s heritage and sustainable future. The conversation also touches on local business support, historical village names, and even graveyard etiquette, offering a thoughtful glimpse into the everyday life—and deeper legacy—of England’s countryside communities.

🎧 Glynn Burrows joins Big Blend Radio every 4th Saturday to share stories about England’s past and present, and to help listeners explore their family roots.

📍 Learn more in Glynn’s companion article:  https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/experience-englands-charming-villages/ 

📌 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Big Daily Blend," and "Way Back When" channels.

Celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show featuring travel writer Terri Guthrie, who shares her recent adventures in Corpus Christi, Texas—officially known as the Birdiest City in America!

From vibrant wetlands and hundreds of bird species to the famous annual birding festival, Corpus Christi is a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Terri highlights the Texas State Aquarium’s rescue and education programs, wildlife-rich Padre Island National Seashore, and the legendary King Ranch, a leader in conservation and habitat restoration.

Beyond its natural wonders, Corpus Christi offers a flavorful mix of cultural and culinary delights, from fresh Gulf seafood to live music and true Texas hospitality.

📖 Read Terri’s article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/corpus-christi-the-birdiest-city-in-america/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer and author Cherith Glover Fulker talks about her upcoming book, Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure (Reedy Press, Aug. 1, 2025).

From jazz legends and civil rights history to cast iron giants and century-old baseball fields, Cherith shares fascinating and lesser-known stories that make Birmingham, Alabama a truly unforgettable destination. Learn about the city's vibrant food scene, family-friendly attractions, and the power of community connection. Cherith also opens up about her journey into travel writing and how personal history and curiosity fuel her work.

🎧 Listen in for:

📘 Get the book: "Secret Birmingham" – https://reedypress.com/author/fluker/cherith-fluker/ 

In celebration of National Fortune Cookie Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio explores the vibrant culture, cuisine, and heritage of Chinatowns around the world. From Singapore to San Francisco to Boston, discover how these neighborhoods serve as gateways to rich cultural traditions and unforgettable culinary experiences.

Featured guests include:

🌏 Clifford Garstang – Award-winning author, world traveler, and writer of the new novel The Last Bird of Paradise, which explores themes of identity, history, and cultural connection. More at: https://cliffordgarstang.com 

Together, they share insights into the evolution of Chinese cuisine in America, the importance of festivals like Chinese New Year, and the fascinating (and very American) origin of the fortune cookie. It’s a lively and delicious conversation that celebrates cultural diversity, storytelling, and the power of food to bring people together.

Discover the historical significance that shapes this unique destination, understand the impact of tourism on its dynamic culture, and delve into the diverse offerings that make Silver City a must-visit locale. Known as "The Gateway to the Continental Divide Trail," Silver City also serves as the main hub for adventurers exploring the breathtaking Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Gila National Forest, and Gila Wilderness Area.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

Resources Mentioned:

Tune in to Big Blend Radio's World of Art Podcast every 3rd Saturday for engaging conversations on art history, contemporary art, museum culture, and more: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ 

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts,” “Big Daily Blend,” “Vacation Station,” and “Parks & Travel” travel podcast channels. Explore the entire network of educational and arts-focused shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

Join Nancy and Lisa, your hosts of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" show, as they celebrate a remarkable milestone: five incredible years of full-time pet sitting and travel with TrustedHousesitters!

In this special anniversary episode, we dive into the joys and unique experiences of pet sitting. The conversations highlight the vital role of community and clear communication in building trust and creating meaningful, immersive travel experiences. From furry friends to fascinating scaly companions and even feathered friends, Nancy and Lisa, and their guests, share their adventures caring for a diverse array of animals in homes across the country and around the globe.

We're thrilled to be joined by special guests who share their own stories and insights:

Discover the heartwarming connections formed, the variety of animals cared for, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. This episode emphasizes how pet sitting offers a sustainable and enriching lifestyle for travelers and a truly caring solution for pet parents. Tune in to hear how our hosts and guests have turned their passion for pets into a fulfilling adventure, proving that caring for animals enriches life!

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

Pet sitting leads to life-changing experiences and connections.

🐾 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans shares her recent adventure through Memphis, Tennessee, a city where music, history, and food come together in unforgettable ways. From the bluesy beats of Beale Street and the legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland, to the comfort food of Rendezvous and Arcade Restaurant, Memphis comes alive with character and charm.

Lisa talks about the city’s colorful street art, the timeless elegance of the Peabody Hotel, and her side trip to Tupelo, Elvis's humble birthplace. She also reflects on what makes Memphis so distinct, and why this soulful city continues to inspire travelers from all walks of life.

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

🗺️ Read Lisa’s article on Memphis restaurants:

📚 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