Vacation Station

Vacation Station

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Vacation Station episodes

  • Pensacola Part 2: Military Pride, Local Flavor & Coastal Culture

    In Part 2 of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" podcast on Pensacola, Florida, travel writer Terri Guthrie continues her coastal journey by exploring the deep-rooted connection between military and civilian life in the Florida Panhandle. From the emotional stories behind military service to vibrant nightlife and historical landmarks, this episode dives into the heart and soul of Pensacola’s culture. 

    🎙️ Hear about:

    - The powerful presence of the U.S. Navy, the Blue Angels, and the National Naval Aviation Museum
    - The emotional experiences and sacrifices tied to military families
    - The warmth of Southern hospitality in welcoming service members
    - Local favorites like the Bushwhacker cocktail and nightlife at Seville Quarter
    - Hidden gems like Fort Pickens, natural landscapes, and Pensacola’s claim as the first European settlement in the U.S.

    📖 Catch up on Part 1 & read Terri’s article about Pensacola:

    https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discover-pensacola-florida/ 

    📅 NEW! “Travel with Terri” is now a WEEKLY podcast—tune in every Tuesday at 9 AM CT!

    🎧 Subscribe & follow here: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

    🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels.

    🎧 Full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

    22 min
  • Explore Scotland on a European Waterways Luxury Barge Cruise
    Join us on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast as travel writer Debbie Stone shares highlights from her unforgettable European Waterways luxury barge cruise aboard the Spirit of Scotland. Journey through Scotland’s stunning Great Glen, between the historic city of Inverness and the town of Fort William, while taking in breathtaking views, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.
     
    Debbie recounts her relaxing and scenic cruise along the Caledonian Canal, with memorable off-boat excursions including:
    * Tours of castles and distilleries
    * A captivating falconry and birds of prey demonstration
    * Visits to historic landmarks like Fort Augustus, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns
     
    Learn what makes European Waterways the premier barging company in Europe, with its fleet of 18 luxurious vessels cruising across nine countries, and discover why this intimate, all-inclusive travel experience is unlike any other.
     
    📖 Read Debbie’s full article:
    https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/explore-scotland-on-a-european-waterways-barge-cruise/ 
     
    🧭 Plan your trip:
    https://www.europeanwaterways.com 
     
    🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the podcast:
    https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
     
    🖼️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio's “Vacation Station” travel channel
    Explore more inspiring episodes on the Big Blend Radio Network:
    https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
    44 min
  • Historic Pensacola, Florida – Blue Angels, Beach Bliss & Coastal Culture

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" podcast, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes you on an unforgettable journey through beautiful and historic Pensacola, Florida—a dream beach destination packed with adventure, charm, and rich history.

    From watching the Blue Angels practice from the Flight Line to nighttime kayaking, indulging in ocean-to-table dining, and enjoying luxury accommodations, Terri shares her firsthand experiences and travel tips to help you plan your perfect Pensacola getaway.

    While Pensacola is famed for its sugar-white sand beaches, there's so much more to discover. Explore nearly 500 years of history, visit centuries-old landmarks, tour top-tier museums, shop at Florida’s #1 outdoor market, and savor the flavors of the Gulf at the region’s incredible restaurants and cafes.

    🎧 Listen now to uncover why Pensacola should be on your travel radar!

    📖 Read Terri’s full Pensacola article:

    https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discover-pensacola-florida/

    🌍 Follow Terri’s global adventures:

    https://travelwithterri.net/

    📅 New episodes every 4th Monday at 6 PM CST. Subscribe here:

    https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

    🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels.

    🎧 Subscribe to the full Big Blend Radio Network:
    https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    21 min
  • Military History Experiences: Coronado, California to Corning, New York

    In this special Memorial Day episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor our nation’s heroes and spotlight Military Appreciation Month with travel writer and editor Kris Grant. She shares the deep military and naval aviation history of Coronado, California, highlighting its connection to naval aviation, Navy SEAL training, and legendary figures like Glenn Curtiss.

    The conversation explores life on a naval base, the evolution of military aviation, and the cultural significance of Coronado—from the festive Independence Day Parade to the historic and famously haunted Hotel del Coronado.

    Kris also shares insights on other fascinating military history destinations, including:

    • Dayton, Ohio – A hub of aviation heritage with the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

    • Hammondsport and Corning, New York – Home to the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum and the scenic Finger Lakes region

      🎧 Listen in for inspiring stories that commemorate service and preserve the legacy of America’s military past.

      🔗 Websites & Resources:

      • Coronado Magazine & Coronado Eagle/Journal: https://www.coronadonewsca.com/

      • Visit Coronado, California: https://discovercoronado.com/

      • Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (Hammondsport, NY): https://glennhcurtissmuseum.org/

      • Explore Corning & the Finger Lakes: https://exploresteuben.com/

      • Destination Dayton (Visitor Info): https://www.destinationdayton.org/

      • National Museum of the U.S. Air Force: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/

      • National Aviation Heritage Area: https://www.nps.gov/daav/index.htm

      • International Food Wine Travel Writers Association: https://ifwtwa.org/

        37 min
      • Honoring Service: Acts of Kindness, Travel, and Military Appreciation

        In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month by exploring the deep connections formed through acts of kindness—especially within the military community. The conversation also highlights how travel can deepen our understanding of military history and sacrifice.

        Guests Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass travel blog, share their inspiring story of meeting through the nonprofit organization Soldiers’ Angels. They discuss the emotional bonds built through care packages, letters, and food, and how small gestures can create lasting impacts for both soldiers and supporters.

        Follow their adventures:
        https://www.wandererscompass.com/

        Innkeepers Steve & Karen Wilson of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, and Tiffany Bertram of Tiffany’s Bed & Breakfast in Hot Springs, Arkansas, share how they honor veterans through initiatives like baking for troops and offering free stays for veterans in November. They also discuss veteran support efforts and historical military sites within their communities.

        Learn more about their inns:
        https://www.lion-rose.com/
        https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com/

        Through moving personal stories and thoughtful conversations, this episode shines a light on the power of giving, the importance of remembrance, and the many meaningful ways we can support those who serve.

        🎧 Chapters:

        00:00 – Introduction to Wanderer's Compass and Military Appreciation

        03:05 – The Journey of Connection through Soldiers’ Angels
        05:59 – The Impact of Food and Care Packages
        09:08 – Building Bonds: From Soldiers to Family
        12:05 – The Ripple Effect of Kindness and Compassion
        15:03 – The Importance of Communication and Understanding
        18:12 – Volunteering and Supporting Veterans
        21:06 – The Role of Community in Veteran Support
        23:52 – Personal Stories and Emotional Connections
        27:13 – Encouraging Engagement with Veterans
        30:02 – Conclusion: The Power of Giving and Connection
        38:32 – The Impact of Travel on Understanding History
        41:53 – Visiting War Memorials: A Personal Journey
        44:52 – The Importance of Learning Real History
        48:21 – Reflections on War and Its Consequences
        54:11 – Exploring Turkey: A New Adventure
        56:52 – Connecting with Innkeepers: A Tribute to Veterans
        01:06:04 – Honoring Military History and Service
        01:09:46 – Community Support for Veterans
        01:12:39 – Understanding Sacrifice and Service
        01:20:17 – Exploring Family History and Genealogy
        01:26:14 – Baking for Troops and Community Engagement

        🔗 Keep up with Big Blend Radio’s network of shows:

        https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

        1 hr 32 min
      • Road Trip USA: Southeast to Southwest - Part 2

        Get ready to hit the road with Big Blend Radio! In honor of National Road Trip Day, we're excited to bring you Part Two of our special "ROAD TRIP ROAD" podcast series. This episode takes you on an incredible journey from the Southeast to the Southwest, uncovering hidden gems and popular spots in North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Arizona!

        We've got an amazing lineup of guests sharing their insights and stories:

        - Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion & Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, share their local expertise. https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
        Terri Guthrie, a world traveler and travel writer, offers her unique perspectives on hitting the open road. https://travelwithterri.net/ 
        Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, talks about the delights of the Southwest. https://ldvwinery.com/ 

        Tune in for their expert advice and inspiring tales to fuel your wanderlust! Plus, don't forget to check out our Road Trip Music Playlist on Spotify for the perfect travel soundtrack. Listen: https://tinyurl.com/sf4x7rat 

        Want even more travel inspiration? Be sure to subscribe to our Big Blend Newsletter for exclusive content, and keep an eye out for our special Road Trip USA Map feature in the upcoming Bumper Issue of Big Blend Express Podcast Magazine! Subscribe here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/join-us/ 

        54 min
      • Road Trip USA: Southeast to Southwest - Part One

        Hit the open road with Big Blend Radio! In honor of National Road Trip Day, with Part One of our special "ROAD TRIP ROAD" podcast series. We're taking you on an epic journey from the Southeast to the Southwest. Discover hidden gems and popular spots across Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, and Colorado.

        This episode features an amazing roster of guests:

        - Jeffrey Spear: Branding expert, food/travel writer, and author: https://spearwrites.contently.com/ & https://www.studiospear.com/ 
        - Jo Clark: Food/wine/travel writer and photographer: https://recipestravelculture.com & https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ 
        - Sharon K. Kurtz: Travel writer and photographer: https://sharonkkurtz.com/ 
        - Eva Eldridge: Road tripper, travel writer, and book industry expert: https://evaeldridge.com/ 
        - Kathleen Walls: Travel writer and author: https://americanroads.net/ 
        - Tiffany Bertram: Owner/innkeeper of Tiffany's B&B: https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com /
        - Cherith L. Fluker: Freelance travel writer: https://whatcherithinks.com/ 

        Tune in for insights, stories, and expert advice to fuel your wanderlust. Plus, find the perfect soundtrack for your travels with our Road Trip Music Playlist on Spotify! Listen: https://tinyurl.com/sf4x7rat 

        Want more travel inspiration? Subscribe to our Big Blend Newsletter for exclusive content, and keep an eye out for our special Road Trip USA Map feature in the upcoming Bumper Issue of Big Blend Express Podcast Magazine. Subscribe here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/join-us/ 

        1 hr 19 min
      • Discover DeSoto Parish in Northwest Louisiana

        Celebrate National Road Trip Day (May 23) with this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show. We’re hitting the road with Charlotte Knotek to explore the scenic and historic treasures of DeSoto Parish, located just south of Shreveport in northwest Louisiana.

        From the natural beauty of Toledo Bend Lake to immersive Civil War battlefield reenactments, charming small-town Main Streets, and delicious Southern cuisine, DeSoto Parish offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and down-home hospitality. Discover beautiful Greek Revival architecture, seasonal berry picking, historic cemeteries, unique shops, cozy bed & breakfasts, and more than 30 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

        Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or road trip enthusiast, this episode will inspire your next getaway along the Jefferson Highway.

        🔗 Plan Your Adventure:

        - DeSoto Parish Tourism: https://discoverdesoto.com 
        - Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org 

        📅 Tune in every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST (except holidays) to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com 

        34 min
      • Gearhead Curios & Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas

        Happy National Road Trip Day! 🎉 Join us for a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show, as we celebrate May 23rd with Aaron Perry and Cassandra Ringel, the passionate owners behind Gearhead Curios and the highly anticipated Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas.

        Situated on both the historic Jefferson Highway and iconic Route 66, Gearhead Curios is more than just a souvenir shop – it's a vibrant visitor center and a perfect photo-op spot to create and share your road trip memories, housed in a charming 1939 Texaco station.

        Get ready for Petrol Motor Quart, opening soon just two blocks north! This isn't your average lodging; it's a destination designed to transport you back in time. Imagine staying in themed cabins, each a loving tribute to the vintage gas stations that lined these legendary byways. With mid-century decor and architectural nods to different eras, Petrol Motor Quart promises a comfortable and captivating escape into the nostalgic charm of Americana.

        Planning a weekend getaway or your next great American road trip? This episode will inspire you to explore the unique history and vibrant present of the Jefferson Highway.

        🎧 Listen now and fuel your wanderlust:

        Gearhead Curios: https://www.facebook.com/GearheadCurios 
        Petrol Motor Quart: https://www.facebook.com/PetrolMotorQuart 
        Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

        📅 Don't miss the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast, every 4th Thursday at 6 pm CST: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

        54 min
      • Boots Court Motel at the Crossroads of America

        Celebrate National Road Trip Day (May 23) with us on a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show! Our guest, Janna Conklin, provides an insightful overview of what to experience at the renowned and historic Boots Court Motel & Visitor Center, located in charming Carthage, Missouri.

        Experience the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern comfort at this beautifully restored boutique gem, nestled along historic Route 66 and the Jefferson Highway at the “Crossroads of America.” Discover why notable guests like Clark Gable and Gene Autry flocked here, and why USA Today recently ranked it the 5th Best Roadside Motel in the U.S. for its commitment to historic preservation and guest experience.

        Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or your next great American road trip, you'll see why the Boots Court Motel on the “Pines to Palms” Jefferson Highway is a must-visit. Stay the night, take a guided tour, or browse their unique collection of souvenirs and take home a piece of history!

        🎧 Listen now and start planning your visit:

        - Boots Court Motel & Visitor Center: https://bootscourt66.com/ 
        - Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

        📅 Tune in every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

        17 min

      About Vacation Station

      From the publisher's feed

      Big Blend Radio travel podcast featuring expert interviews and conversations covering Travel and Leisure, Destinations, and Event News.