Vacation Station

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel Show "with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Amy Nesler of the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau invites us to Eat Local First and discover the food, farms, producers, and sustainable traditions that make Washington's San Juan Islands so special.

Beyond the spectacular scenery and outdoor adventures, the San Juan Islands offer a rich agricultural and culinary experience. Amy shares stories of family farms, heritage fruits, local wineries and cideries, sustainable seafood, farm-to-table dining, and the connections between island farmers, chefs, artisans, and visitors.

We also explore the region's deep food heritage, including Coast Salish traditions, heritage agriculture, shellfish, reef-net fishing, and efforts to preserve and celebrate local foodways. The conversation highlights how choosing locally grown and produced foods can help visitors connect more meaningfully with a destination while supporting the communities they visit.

Amy also shares details about Savor the San Juans, an annual celebration of local food and agriculture featuring farm tours, farm dinners, wine experiences, restaurant events, artisan producers, and opportunities to meet the people behind the food.

If you're passionate about sustainable travel, farm-to-table experiences, local food, culinary adventures, and authentic community connections, this episode offers plenty of inspiration for your next San Juan Islands getaway.

👉 Visit the San Juan Islands:

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA:

🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Podcast:

📰 Check out the Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine:

Step inside one of Oklahoma City’s most remarkable historic restorations with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Podcast.

In Part 1 of our three-part Oklahoma City series, Travel Journalist Terri Guthrie takes us inside The National Hotel, a luxurious Marriott Autograph Collection property housed within Oklahoma City’s historic First National Center.

Originally opened in 1931 as First National Bank, this Art Deco and Neoclassical landmark has been transformed into a sophisticated hotel while preserving its soaring Great Hall, historic murals, marble columns, original architectural details, and massive bank vault — now home to The Vault cocktail bar.

Recorded on-site at The National, this episode also features Terri’s conversations with Amanda Clark, Director of Sales & Catering, who shares the building’s history and restoration, and Chef Jason Jonilonis, Director of Culinary, who talks about the hotel’s restaurants, dining experiences, Stock & Bond Steakhouse, and the impressive beverage program.

We explore the Great Hall, Tellers, Stock & Bond, The Gilded Acorn, The Vault, the hotel’s guest rooms and Presidential Suite, its weekend high teas, shopping and amenities, and why The National is more than a hotel — it’s a destination within downtown Oklahoma City.

The episode also highlights Oklahoma City as an easy getaway from the Dallas-Fort Worth area and a walkable destination filled with museums, parks, gardens, dining, culture, and entertainment. What a way to celebrate America 250 and American Adventures Month (August)!

Plan your stay: https://www.thenationalokc.com/ 

Stay tuned for more of Terri’s Oklahoma City adventures!

Victoria, British Columbia, offers a wonderful mix of gardens, castles, history, culture, waterfront scenery and easygoing family adventure. 

Celebrate Family Fun Month with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wanderer's Compass" Travel Podcast, travel writers Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough continue their adventures with Ryan’s son—this time crossing the border from the Pacific Northwest to Vancouver Island.

From taking the Victoria Clipper from Seattle and exploring the Inner Harbour to discovering the world-famous Butchart Gardens, enjoying afternoon tea, visiting the Royal BC Museum and exploring Victoria’s fascinating castles, this episode shows just how much can be packed into a short getaway.

They talk about Victoria’s British and European influences, First Nations history and cultural heritage, Chinatown, the city’s walkability, family-friendly attractions, waterfront neighborhoods and the relaxed pace that makes Victoria such a memorable destination. They also share the stories behind Hatley Castle and Craigdarroch Castle—and why castle hunting doesn't have to end when you leave Europe.

For Ryan’s son, the trip offered another opportunity to learn through travel, explore history and culture, and add another country to his growing list of adventures.

- Read their companion article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/victoria-british-columbia 

- And if you missed their previous adventure, listen to "Traveling Europe Across Generations: Castles, Culture & Curiosity," featuring Ryan, his son and Joelle: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/traveling-europe-with-a-child 

- Listen to More Wanderers Compass Podcast Episodes: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 

- Check out the Wanderers Compass Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/ 

Wrap up summer with an unforgettable adventure in California's Sequoia Country, home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, the Giant Sequoia National Monument, and the welcoming communities of Tulare County.

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "California's Sequoia Country" podcast, discover family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, seasonal produce, and exciting community events that make late summer one of the best times to visit. Learn about the National Park Service's 110th anniversary celebration, Junior Ranger Day, the upcoming Dark Sky Festival, scenic shuttle services, Crystal Cave, Mineral King, farmers markets, golf, museums, and local dining experiences.

Whether you're planning one last summer getaway or looking ahead to a quieter fall escape, this episode shares travel tips, park highlights, and local experiences for visitors of all ages.

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:

📍 PLAN YOUR VISIT: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 

🎧 Listen to more California's Sequoia Country podcast episodes: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-s-sequoia-country-podcast 

📖 Explore Big Blend Radio's "California's Sequoia Country" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-s-sequoia-country-magazine 

📡 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels.

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz shares highlights from her unforgettable small ship cruise through Greece and Italy aboard Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Sailing the "A Piece of Greece, A Slice of Italy" itinerary, Sharon explains why small ship cruising offers a more relaxed, immersive, and personalized way to experience the Mediterranean.

From docking steps away from charming ports and exploring picturesque villages at your own pace to savoring local cuisine, breathtaking coastal scenery, and attentive onboard service, Sharon discusses what sets boutique-style cruising apart from larger cruise ships. She also shares why traveling during the shoulder season offers fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and excellent value.

Whether you're dreaming of your first Mediterranean cruise or looking for a slower, more intimate way to travel, this episode is filled with practical tips and inspiring experiences.

📝 Read Sharon's "Small Ship Cruising the Mediterranean" article:

⛵ Learn more about Windstar Cruises:

📖 Check out the Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1 

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

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

Steve and Karen Wilson of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast take this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast to HapBE Valley Equine & Wellness Farm, where owners Jennifer and Jason Robbins have built a horse-centered healing retreat on a former century-old family farm.

Jennifer shares how a solo retreat to Costa Rica at 50 — working with horses through groundwork, not riding — taught her more in a few days than 20 years of therapy, and how that experience became the blueprint for HapBE Valley. Jason talks about leaving a 21-year business behind to build something more meaningful, and shares a vulnerable personal story from his own first time working with a horse in front of a group.

They walk through what makes HapBE Valley different: Reiki sessions with horses, guided horse meditations down in the pasture, private "just be with the horses" appointments with no agenda, and multi-day retreats — including their long-running Equine Self Discovery program and a brand-new retreat built around Kelly McDaniel's "Mother Hunger" work on attachment and generational trauma. They also touch on their corporate herd-dynamics program and why Asheville, with its music and wellness culture, was the right home for the farm.

🐴 Learn more and book a visit: https://hapbevalley.com/ 

🏡 Stay at The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville's Montford Historic District: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

🎧 LISTEN: Check out the NEW Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ADVENTURES-IN-ASHEVILLE/ 

New episodes air every 1st Tuesday: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 

In celebration of America 250, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Podcast explores the fascinating history, culture, and outdoor spirit of Boise, Idaho, with travel writer Debbie Stone. While many travelers know Idaho for its rugged landscapes and potatoes, Boise reveals a much richer story—one shaped by frontier history, Basque immigrants, Native heritage, and a thriving arts community.

Discover why Boise's historic Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of the city's most compelling attractions, learn about the nation's largest Basque community and its enduring cultural legacy, tour the elegant Idaho State Capitol, and explore museums, public art, and the inspiring World Center for Birds of Prey. Debbie also shares favorite restaurants, local shopping, and the welcoming hospitality that make Boise an ideal destination for history lovers, culture seekers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Plan your visit:

- Listen to Debbie's "Global Adventures" Podcast:

- Explore Debbie's Global Adventures Digital Magazine:

Discover the best of New Orleans, Louisiana, with travel journalist Terri Guthrie on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast. Building on her previous tour of the iconic Roosevelt Hotel, Terri shares her personal favorite places to experience the authentic soul of the Crescent City—from legendary jazz clubs and unforgettable Creole cuisine to historic neighborhoods, cocktail culture, and must-see attractions.

Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another adventure, Terri offers insider recommendations for where to stay, eat, listen to live music, and experience the rich history and culture that make New Orleans one of America's most beloved destinations.

In this episode:

This episode is a wonderful companion to Terri's exclusive interview inside The Roosevelt Hotel: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-roosevelt-new-orleans 

Plus, check out the Official Sazerac Cocktail Recipe: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/travel-new-orleans-with-terri 

Keep up with Terri's travels: https://TravelwithTerri.com 

Listen to the Travel with Terri Podcast: https://TravelwithTerri.com/podcast 

Read The Luxe Explorer digital magazine: https://TravelwithTerri.com/magazine 

This episode also celebrates America's rich cultural heritage as part of America 250, highlighting one of the nation's most iconic cities where music, food, architecture, transportation history, and storytelling come together.

Travel writer, travel lecturer, and longtime Big Blend Radio guest David Kriso joins us for a special "Getting to Know You" episode, sharing the personal stories behind his passion for exploring the world.

From growing up with model railroads and becoming an award-winning travel writer to working with cruise lines and inspiring audiences through his travel lectures, David reflects on the experiences that shaped both his career and his love of discovery. Along the way, he talks about Disney, Amtrak, music, future travel dreams, memorable family traditions, and the life lesson that has guided him since his teenage years: failure leads to success.

David also answers Big Blend Radio's signature seven questions, revealing his spirit animal, bucket-list destinations, favorite music, travel inspirations, and even the one food he'll always avoid.

David Kriso has written for numerous travel and transportation publications and regularly presents engaging travel programs at libraries and organizations throughout the Northeast. Learn more about his travel writing, reviews, travel tips, and upcoming adventures at https://dektraveljournal.com/. 

Visit the new Big Blend Media House at https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the fascinating story of America's early motor camping movement and how it forever changed road travel, tourism, and hospitality across the United States.

As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Daniel Hershberger, roadside historian, researcher, and presenter at the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration in Joplin, Missouri.

Long before today's RV parks, campgrounds, and roadside motels, adventurous motorists packed tents and supplies into their automobiles and headed out to explore America's growing network of highways. Daniel shares how motor camping evolved from a practical way to travel into a nationwide pastime that helped shape roadside tourism, local businesses, and the American road trip tradition.

The conversation also explores the evolution of tourist camps, the rise of auto courts and motels, the development of roadside hospitality, and the important role the Jefferson Highway played in connecting communities and encouraging travel across North America.

Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. Daniel Hershberger will be one of the featured presenters, sharing his research on America's early motor camping movement and roadside tourism. The event also includes special Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/. 

The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway"—runs from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. Visit: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

LEARN MORE: 

- Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch:

- Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/