Travel Connections

Have you heard of the Camino de Santiago? This centuries-old pilgrimage across Spain draws thousands of travelers each year, each with their own reasons for taking on the journey. The most well-known route, the Camino Francés, stretches more than 500 miles and offers not only a physical challenge but also moments of reflection, connection, and discovery. In this episode, I sit down with Erik Hulslander to hear about his unforgettable experience walking the Camino. You may remember Erik from a previous episode—he's a marathon runner, avid traveler, and master storyteller who explores the world one step at a time. His Camino journey is filled with insights, adventure, and the kind of details that make you feel as if you're walking right alongside him. Whether or not you ever plan to take on the Camino yourself, Erik's stories will draw you in and captivate you like a beautifully told novel. Episode Highlights: The surprising reason Erik set out to walk across Spain How training as a marathon runner both helped—and didn't—on the Camino The unforgettable ancient city that captured his imagination forever Valuable insider tips for your Camino journey Another podcast episode devoted to the Camino! Walking the Camino de Santiago - An Exhilarating & Inspiring Adventure with Meg S. Maloney Other Important Links: Important Links: Adventures of Empty Nesters Instagram: Erik Hulslander Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne’s Amazon Shop  

The Simple Goodness Sisters Return with Summer Cocktails! — Sip, Savor, and Celebrate with “Drink Your Garden” The delightful Simple Goodness Sisters are back on Travel Connections, and they’re bringing a bouquet of flavor, fun, and farm-to-glass inspiration with them! Venise Cunningham and Belinda Kelly join us to share all about their brand-new book, Drink Your Garden: Recipes, Stories and Tips from the Simple Goodness Farm—a gorgeous guide for anyone who loves to mix drinks with intention, beauty, and heart. Plus cocktails and recipes for all seasons, not just for summer. In this lively episode, we cover: The story behind how their unique business began What “Garden to Glass” really means How thoughtful entertaining can make every guest feel special The magic of pairing farm-grown flavors with seasonal sips Tips and tricks for crafting memorable cocktails and mocktails at home A must-hear tutorial on how to make a perfect margarita and gin & tonic Whether you're a seasoned home mixologist or just love a good story over a good drink, this episode is full of inspiration and practical takeaways for your next gathering. Remember, while visiting Seattle, make time to visit Wilkeson, WA, and the Simple Goodness Sisters at The Soda Shop- Thursday - Sunday. Tune in, pour a glass, and let the Simple Goodness Sisters show you how to drink your garden! Also: Bonus Content on Substack! - Gin & Tonic Around the World: How Our Favorite Cocktail Became a Travel Tradition Important Links: Simple Goodness Sisters Adventures of Empty Nesters Find Adventure with Suzanne Stavert on Substack Instagram: Simple Goodness Sisters Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Simple Goodness Sisters Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne’s Amazon Shop      

In this exciting episode, we're taking you deep into the heart of North Africa to explore the enchanting and unforgettable country of Morocco. Have you ever dreamed of off-roading through the Sahara, riding camels through towering dunes, or drinking cocktails on a sun-drenched rooftop in Marrakech? If Morocco has ever been on your travel wish list, or even if it hasn't, this episode might be just the thing to inspire your next adventure. We're calling in The Travelers for this one: Brad Bermingham, Troy Mendenhall, my husband Craig, and me—four longtime friends. We have been exploring the world together now that our kids are grown and our calendars are a bit more flexible. From the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to the visually stunning Lake Louise and Banff , our adventures have taken us far and wide, but Morocco was unlike anywhere we've ever been. In this episode, here are a few highlights! Is Morocco the right destination for you? How Cindy Stephan of International Culinary Tours curated a once-in-a-lifetime itinerary What it's like to ride a camel at sunset in the Sahara The wild sights of the Medina in Marrakech - motorcycles and donkey carts, oh my! What is a hammam, and should you try one? What's a shush and why you'll want one for your desert ride How stepping outside your comfort zone can completely transform your travel experience This episode is full of laughter, stories, and tips for planning your own Moroccan getaway—or just enjoying it vicariously through our eyes (and sand-filled shoes). Important Links: International Culinary Tours Suzanne’s Instagram Suzanne’s Amazon Store Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters  

Welcome back to Travel Connections! In this special update episode, I’m catching you up on what’s been a whirlwind first half of the year—and sharing some truly exciting news! From holiday travels in London and Paris to an awe-inspiring adventure through South America and a recent return from Morocco, it’s been nonstop exploring (and yes, I’ll be sharing all the juicy details soon). I also reflect on some deeply personal moments, including the recent loss of my very special stepfather, and how these experiences only fuel my passion to seize the day and keep finding adventure wherever I can. BIG News! And now… the BIG news! I’m launching curated boutique tours to Tuscany, Italy, starting in 2026! After decades of visiting this region, I’ve partnered with dear friends and local hosts to create magical, week-long experiences in the charming village of Montefollonico. These intimate tours (just 10–14 guests!) offer unforgettable food, wine, culture, and community—all with me as your host. Our Fall 2025 tour is nearly sold out, and Spring/Fall 2026 dates are now open! Get all the details and join the waitlist HERE! Plus, I’ve launched a brand-new home for my writing on Substack! It’s a curated, ad-free space where I’ll share travel stories, tips, and inspiration—delivered straight to your inbox. Find me there at Find Adventure with Suzanne Stavert. Before you go, don’t miss some recent favorite episodes: Patagonia magic with our amazing tour guide, Sol Maranon A heartwarming trip recap with my husband, Craig An inspiring story of renovating a 300-year-old Italian farmhouse with author Barbara Boyle Exploring the Hamptons with local expert Vanessa Gordon Thanks for tuning in—there’s so much more to come. Adventure is calling… will you join me?

Welcome to another exciting interview with Travel Connections. My special guest today is Vanessa Gordon—a dynamic and knowledgeable force in the world of culinary travel. As the CEO and Publisher of East End Taste, Vanessa curates a digital publication that explores sustainable and international culinary travel, with a strong focus on seasonal coastal destinations. Her passion for food and travel is infectious, making her a go-to expert for anyone looking to enhance their travel experiences. In 2018, Vanessa launched the Hamptons Interactive Brunch, an annual summer event series that has become a must-attend gathering for food enthusiasts and notable personalities. With her finger on the pulse of the Hamptons lifestyle, she is often sought after for her insights on travel, personal finance, and parenting, establishing herself as a trusted voice in these areas. Her expertise has been featured in prestigious outlets such as The New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, BBC Radio, and more. Whether she’s sharing her insights in Success Magazine or contributing to Parents Magazine and Psychology Today, Vanessa's writing resonates with a diverse audience, inspiring them to embrace a life filled with adventure and mindful living. Highlights in this episode - How Vanessa curates sustainable travel narratives through East End Taste - Her engaging personality and extensive knowledge of global experiences, travel, and exciting adventures - Insights into events in Italy, including delicious details about Florence Cocktail Week - The joys of meeting collaborators in person rather than just communicating online - Secrets to Vanessa’s organizational skills - A discussion on whether Albania is the "new and exciting" travel destination - And so much more! Tune in for a captivating conversation filled with insights and inspiration! Important Links: East End Taste Instagram East End Taste Vanessa Gordon Suzanne's Instagram Suzanne's Amazon Store Travel Connections Podcast

Welcome to a fantastic new episode of Travel Connections! In today's episode, we will cover many of the things that I love most! What are they, you ask? Let me give you a small list. Learning about a delightful new book, traveling to Italy, memorable Italian food and wine, discovering and exploring new destinations, and living a life devoted to less stress and more calming views of Italy. How does that sound? In today's episode, I talk with Barbara Boyle. Barbara enjoyed a colorful worldwide career as a creative director at Saatchi & Saatchi, Grey, Lowe, and other advertising agencies, creating commercials and stories for Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, Mars Inc., and dozens of other marketers. Always a writer, this is the first time she has had the time required to author a book. Her inspirational new memoir, "Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse," is an evocative account of leaving the frenetic life of an advertising creative director to create a dream life in the faraway hills of Northern Italy. This book tells the story of how she leaves her life behind in San Francisco and takes apart a 300-year-old stone barn to build a new home, a new life, in Italy. Newly retired and traveling through Europe, Barbara stumbles upon the ancient Italian hill town of Monforte.  She is enchanted by the castles and the sweeping vistas reaching out to the Alps, captivated by the region's cuisine and confounded by its extraordinary culture of kindness. And then, one morning, she awakes and looks out over the valley, and she realizes that she longs to be there in her own home, drinking her coffee and watching the sunrise. To live a life in the Italian countryside. Highlights in this episode: Imagine trading the hustle and bustle of a corporate career for the gentle rhythms of an enchanting Italian town Barbara's leap into retirement was not just a change of scenery but a plunge into a deeper, richer existence. What is it like to wake up in a fully renovated 300-year-old Italian farmhouse? Details of a memoir filled with food, friendships, and scenes of Italy How can we learn from Barbara's bold life change?   Barbara Boyle's Website  Barbara's Substack Letters from a 300 year old farmhouse Barbara's Instagram  Suzanne's Instagram Suzanne's Amazon Store Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters

Today's episode is near and near my heart. It is part two of the highlights of our tour of Patagonia with our friends from Collette. The tour's name is Patagonia: Edge of the World, and trust me, we actually made it to the edge of the world, and it was exhilarating. In this episode, I will interview and talk with my husband, Craig. He was on tour with me, and it's just a perfect addition to the first conversation I had with Sol Maranon, our Collette tour guide in Part One. If you haven't had a chance to listen to Part One, you should; she's fantastic. She offered her vast knowledge of Patagonia, and I loved talking with her. And now, in this episode, if you have not listened to my husband Craig before, he's been on two other podcast episodes with me. One was about our tour of Southern Africa last year, and then we recorded an episode of our trip to London and Paris this season. I found that it's a great way to tell a story when your travel partner is there, embellishing and helping to fill in the details. As a way of introduction, Craig is an executive in the tech industry and occasionally gets the chance to travel with me to these extraordinary destinations. He's a really great guy and offers his colorful opinions quite freely. This conversation is a lot of fun and quite lively. Highlights in this episode: Craig shared memorable anecdotes and insights from our tour to Patagonia Favorite experiences in Buenos Aires Glacier sightings and breathtaking landscapes Craig's impressions of the visit to the sheep farm Why small group tours are an excellent way to travel Quote from Craig: "Collette sets you up for a view you would never find on your own." Vivid descriptions of life on the ship as we sailed through the tip of South America Extraordinary hiking among the 1,000 islands of Chile Other episodes mentioned: An Extraordinary Tour of Patagonia with Collette London & Paris at the Holidays - 100% Yes! An African Safari to Remember

Welcome to an exciting new episode filled with information about a place I would describe as other-worldly and epic. My husband Craig and I traveled to South America to explore the region of Patagonia. Are you intrigued by glaciers, quiet and unspoiled landscapes, warm and welcoming locals, and delicious food? Have you ever wondered what it was like to speed across the ocean in zodiac boats to see penguins living in their natural habitat?- We did it all and so much more. We were invited to join a Small Group Explorations Tour with Colette. The tour is called Patagonia: Edge of the World. We traveled so far that at one time, we were sailing at the southern tip of South America; we were only 500 miles from Antarctica. This journey was filled with unique experiences that left us feeling like true explorers, just like Magellan. In this episode, I interview Sol Maranon—an outstanding tourism professional with 36 years of experience. Sol grew up in Chile and knows practically everything you need to know about Patagonia; plus, her knowledge of glaciers is impressive! Highlights of this episode Details of the spectacular itinerary Descriptions of the incredible national parks on the tour - Torres del Paine, Tierra del Fuego, plus others The grandeur of Perito Moreno Glacier - Ice calving! A visit to a sheep ranch, enjoying time with locals, and viewing the extra-special herding skills of Fayo, the sheep herding dog! What is a guanaco? Details of the unique architecture of the accommodations (Suzanne's favorite) Climbing on Magellan's ship Riding in zodiac boats to see the penguins in their natural habitat This is Part One of our two podcast episodes devoted to our tour of Patagonia. There is so much to share that we created TWO! Next up, I interview my tour partner and husband, Craig Stavert. We will dive deeper into what it really feels like to travel to the End of the Earth! This episode will be published on Friday, March 7th. It is EPIC! Important Links Tour - Patagonia: Edge of the World Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters

Welcome to another new season of Travel Connections. We are now beginning Season Four, and I’m excited to bring you more travel conversations about intriguing destinations, incredible adventures, and captivating insights with inspiring guests. We will continue to dive beneath the surface of travel, and I can't wait to share it with you! London and Paris at the Holidays? Sign me up. I planned the perfect eight-night (4+4) trip about a year in advance, and luckily for both of us, it turned out superbly! Who better to talk about this fantastic couple's trip than with the person I traveled with, my husband, Craig Stavert? Craig has been a guest on the podcast once before, early last season, when we talked about our glorious tour with Collette to Southern Africa. Now we are dishing up holiday adventures in London and Paris! Why are we talking about Christmas travel in February? There are several important reasons. Listen for tips! Highlights of this episode: Tips for planning holiday travel with miles & points - Get started! Flying on Christmas Day - Yes or No? (Spoiler alert: YES!) Our perfect 4 + 4 itinerary London: Extraordinary Lights, National Portrait Gallery, Fortnum & Mason, Hatchard's (1797), Christmas with the Queen - Suzanne's travel book The travel experience from London to Paris on the Eurostar high-speed train Why embracing and engaging other travelers is a MUST. Paris Highlights - New Year's Day - Views from the Eiffel Tower, Museè D'Orsay, E. Dehillerin, Le Gallerie Dior, Notre Dame For links to all of the places we visited - Click here!  

When I think of a quintessential Pacific Northwest setting, I envision nature in abundance! Walking on the beach and strolling through deeply wooded forests with lovely hiking trails, scenic roads, and peaceful breezes are the perfect combination for every traveler. On Camano Island, in the state of Washington, located just over 60 miles north of Seattle, in Possession Sound, you will find all of this, with just one more thing - buried treasure. No, I'm not kidding; for the past 16 years, the creative people of Camano Island have celebrated the thrill of the hunt. Northwest Glass Quest is celebrating its 16th year and will be held February 14-23 this year. The Camano Chamber of Commerce organizes the event. And for 10 days, businesses and parks throughout Stanwood & Camano Island hide plastic clue balls. You win a limited edition Hand-Blown Glass Ball when you find a plastic clue ball. These glass ball prizes are one of a kind and so beautiful. It is a fantastic activity for all ages, and there is an excellent website where all your questions and tips for a successful quest can be answered. The website is called NorthwestGlassQuest.com. In this episode, I invited Amy Bush, a jewelry designer and owner of Loyalsmith Jewelry and the current president of the Camano Arts Association, back to the podcast. Highlights of this episode! What is Glass Quest, and how does it add to Camano Island's unique all-season visitor experience? The importance of regenerative travel - How to give back while traveling! What are "kind" questors? Additional super fun things to do while participating in Glass Quest Where to eat while on Camano Island Suzanne's enthusiasm for the PNW Winter Wonderland of Camano Important Links: Northwest Glass Quest Loyalsmith Jewelry Camano Arts Association Tapped Camano The Baked Cafe Camano Commons Marketplace Blue Heron Kitchen & Bar Short Term Rentals, Inns and Cottages Suzanne's Favorite Cottage The Camano Shop Camano Cookies Canopy Tours Northwest Arrowhead Ranch Camano Island State Park Cama Beach Cafe Related Episodes: A Visit to Camano Island, Washington: An Artists' Studio Tour An Invitation to Discover Regenerative Travel with Embrace Whidbey & Camano Islands Kayaking & Island Life on Whidbey Island Orchard Kitchen: Farm Focused Fine Dining on Whidbey Island, WA  

Welcome to a wonderful new episode of Travel Connections. My special guest is a personal travel connection for me. On a sunny summer afternoon, my family and I attended the most spectacular Gathering on a ranch called Rancho San Julian, just north of Santa Barabara. We enjoyed a delicious dinner as we sat at long ranch tables under the shady canopy of 150-year-old vines. It was just dreamy! Elizabeth Poett is a seventh-generation cattle rancher, author of the bestselling cookbook The Ranch Table, and star-host of the cooking and lifestyle show Ranch to Table, one of the founding shows of the Magnolia Network. Elizabeth was born and raised on Rancho San Julian, her family's historic 14,000-acre cattle ranch on California's Central Coast. In 2007, Elizabeth started Rancho San Julian Beef, a business selling her family's ranch-raised, grass-fed beef directly to chefs and consumers. Her meats quickly became popular with California cooks and local chefs and have been served at restaurants across California. Elizabeth is also the author of the blog The Ranch Table and hosts a number of Ranch Table events, cooking workshops, educational events, and intimate farm-to-table meals throughout the year. In this episode, you will hear all of the details of The Ranch Table from the lovely Elizabeth Poett. Highlights in this Episode! What is the origin of The Ranch Table? How does Elizabeth inspire people to have fun in the kitchen? Why cooking doesn't have to be perfect How her cookbook was a year-long journey created right on the ranch What happens at a Gathering at Rancho San Julian? Hint: It's fantastic and delicious! How farmer's markets influenced Elizabeth's passion for cooking How our connection through food brings people together The 2025 dates for Gatherings at Rancho San Julian with Elizabeth Poett Related Episode A California Road Trip Through the Central Coast - A companion episode to the interview with Elizabeth Poett. In this episode, I share the road trip itinerary that was created around our dinner at The Ranch Table. Important Links: The Ranch Table Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters Instagram: Elizabeth Poett Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne’s Amazon Shop  

Is a California road trip on your bucket list? Have you been? Have you traveled through the Central Coast of California? This episode focuses on a small area of California just north of Santa Barbara. What a place! In this episode, I share what we did, where we ate, and what we sipped. It was a glorious road trip curated by my daughter-in-law, Kylie. However, I had a BIG reason for creating this adventure! I discovered Elizabeth Poett through her television show called Ranch to Table. Once I learned more about her unique Gatherings at their 14,000-acre ranch, Rancho San Julian, I knew I had to go! We created a California road trip to the Central Coast all around this special dinner at Rancho San Julian, which is about an hour north of Santa Barbara. I share the details of this exceptional dinner, highlights of our meals along the way, and excellent wineries you need to visit! I love that this itinerary was specially curated for our taste, but once we went, I knew that you needed to hear all about it. Thank you, Kylie, for your incredible eye for detail and for creating such a fantastic itinerary. Here we go! Highlights: Our exceptional experience at a delicious Ranch Table Event at Rancho San Julian with host Elizabeth Poett Fly into Santa Barbara Airport - It's fantastic! Travel for a reason Plan in advance The benefits of reserving an Airbnb with a small group Leave room for spontaneity and serendipity in your travels The unique details of our winery tours and dining experiences in the area are incredible! See the links below! Next on Travel Connections! A special interview with Elizabeth Poett from Ranch to Table - Publishing November 1, 2024 Suzanne's Next BIG Trip: South America with Collette! Stay Tuned - There are a few introductory details in this episode! Check out our social media channels to follow along: @suzannestavert on Instagram and @AdventuresofEmptyNesters on Facebook. Dining on this California Central Coast Road Trip The Ranch Table Bar Le Cote Bell's Bob's Well Bread Bakery Little King Peasants Deli The Hitching Post II Wineries: Future Perfect Liquid Farm Brave and Maiden Spear The Hilt Estate Sea Creatures Other Road Trip Episodes Mentioned in this Episode: Kentucky: A Conversation About Bourbon with The Experts at Woodford Reserve Delicious Southern Food & The Kentucky Bourbon Trail - Ouita Michel Angela Correll: Kentucky Writer, Traveler & Hospitality Innovator Hidden Gems in Kentucky and Other Compelling Stories From Montana to Calgary Best of: Our Road Trip to Banff, Lake Louise & Calgary, Canada

A Road Trip to Banff! Welcome to another of my Best of Series of episodes. This is where I talk about the highlights of a fantastic travel itinerary. In this episode, I describe our tremendously successful road trip from Whitefish, Montana, to Calgary, Canada, which includes the most picturesque destinations of Banff, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake. It was really well planned, not too hard to execute and I did learn some tips along the way that I do think will help you a great deal. You can take what I've done and mold it to what you like to do, and hopefully, this gives you a framework for how to build your road trip through such a remarkably beautiful landscape. Highlights in this episode: What makes a trip successful? How to use this episode as an inspiration for your next road trip to Banff and beyond Don't miss Glacier National Park in Montana! The beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake How tourist crowds can affect your trip Why stepping out of your comfort zone can enhance your travel experience What is the Calgary Stampede, and why should you go? Glacier National Park Lake McDonald Lodge Russel's Fireside Dining Banff, Canada - Favorite Dining/Bar Experiences Lupo The Bison Banff Springs Fairmont Hotel - Rundle Bar Calgary, Canada Calgary Stampede Hyatt Regency Calgary Is a road trip to Banff and Lake Louise in your future?  

Are you familiar with the Italian phrase "La Dolce Vita"? It means "enjoying life's pleasures, indulging, and cultivating joy." In this episode, I am thrilled to share our adventures in Italy with you. We just returned from a jam-packed adventure that lasted 12 days. The good news is that we traveled through Italy for 12 days! The bad news is that I covered a lot of ground—maybe too much. After one night in Rome, we took a high-speed train to Bari, rented a car, and drove south through Puglia. In Puglia, you are literally in the heel of Italy's boot, and our itinerary was ambitious. We stopped in Lecce, Alberobello, Polignano a mare, Monopoli and Matera. Truthfully, if you have yet to research or plan to go to this region of Italy, these names will sound like any other Italian village. However, once you hear me describe them, you should be ready to decide whether you want to see them too! Let's look at this as an introduction. I wish I had access to a podcast episode like this one when planning my trip! Highlights in this episode Where is the region of Puglia, and why should I go there? (Hint: It's spectacular!) Tips to create your own itinerary Hot tip about Rome The most amazing hotel we have ever stayed! Craig's "Best Breakfast of his life" What are trulli? How to enjoy La Dolce Vita! This episode is meant as an introduction to another wonderful region of Italy. Each region offers its own kind of magic, culinary focus, and traditions. You will find that each region is so special, as are the people who live there! Which regions of Italy have you been to? Important Links: Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters Instagram: Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne’s Amazon Shop Rome The Tribune Hotel Lecce Palazzo Maresgallo Matera Sexitantio Montefollonico iCastagni

Welcome to a special episode of Travel Connections. The original subject of this episode was initially scheduled to focus on our fantastic trip to Puglia, Italy. However, something incredible and unexpected happened to me, and I thought it would be fun to share a little behind the scenes! I decided it was a good time to change direction and report this exciting news! Hello - Good Morning America Called! Good Morning America reached out to me and asked if I would do an interview focusing on Empty Nesters. What? Let me think about this! I started my website, Adventures of Empty Nesters, ten years ago. So, obviously, empty nesters are a favorite subject of mine! From start to finish, the entire experience with GMA was uplifting and validating. I thought it would be fun to share how it all happened. The producer also asked for family and travel photos and videos to include in the piece. In this short but fun episode, I share how this all came about and how it all connected to my life as an Empty Nester. What a thrill! Highlights in this episode How did the GMA episode come about? Why are empty nesters so important? Tips to Succeed in the Empty Nest The Best of Adventures of Empty Nesters Future possibilities with Good Morning America You can find the GMA episode in several locations: AdventuresofEmptyNesters.com - (Just scroll down a little) YouTube Suzanne's YouTube Channel Good Morning America

Wisdom from a Travel Expert! Today's episode is an important topic near and dear to my travel heart. Are you an intentional traveler? Have you given this idea any thought? I have connected with Susie Chau, a creative go-getter in the travel world.  She helps Entrepreneur Moms take month-long summer sabbaticals and consistent vacations to strengthen family bonds through travel. Susie and I met over eight years ago at a conference, but I saw a recent video of hers on Instagram. I loved what she was saying and knew I had to ask her to come on Travel Connections! As a travel expert, Susie Chau's perspective on intentional travel is unique and inspiring. A Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist since 2021 and a Certified Travel Designer by the Transformational Travel Council, she brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her journey began in 2016 when she founded Carpe Diem Traveler after a year-long sabbatical to all seven continents with her husband.  As Susie and I both believe, travel can be so much more than just an escape. It's about relaxation, exploration, and, most importantly, personal growth. When done with intention, travel can have many layers, each offering a unique experience. We talk at length about what makes a travel experience go even deeper. And also, how can your travel be a positive experience for the places you go and the people you meet? Does every traveler realize how they contribute to a destination? These ideas about travel are so exciting and can bring a travel experience to an even higher level of enjoyment! Come join in the conversation! Highlights in this Episode! Why travel can be so much more than a means to escape What is transformational travel and the Transformational Travel Council? How Susie created a course for entrepreneurial Moms Why should we travel with intention? What does the acronym S.O.U.L stand for? (Hint: It's brilliant!) Important links: Carpe Diem Traveler Instagram Linked In Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne's Amazon Shop Instagram: Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Adventures of Empty Nesters    

Have you been on a cruise to Alaska? Welcome to a very special episode of Travel Connections. Why is it so special? Well, it's because I am interviewing my daughter, Alex Karlen. Alex and I took our very first ocean cruise on the Celebrity Edge. And I thought, who better to tell the story and add her colorful insights than my exceptional and clever daughter? We have not traveled together in quite a while, and I was thrilled she could clear her calendar to come with me! Her fantastic husband, Brent, took care of their four-year-old twins while she and I embarked on our unique Alaskan Adventure. In her work world, Alex is a Director and Branch Manager for the Pacific Northwest in the creative space. She is a fantastic baker, an excellent home cook, and a voracious reader when she has any spare time. You will hear us talk about Ann and Steve Teget. Ann and Steve organized this special group of guests for a Friends of Postcard Jar Cruise. They are experts on cruising and have written a lot about it on their website, Postcard Jar. They are my go-to people for cruising. I was curious if I would be a good fit for an enormous, 3,000-person ocean liner, but this incredible ship was perfect for me to see if we liked it. We loved it! The ship design was over the top incredible, the service was top-notch, and Alaska—oh wow. Nature on such a grand scale is a sight to behold. And the cruise embarked from our hometown of Seattle! It was kind of a no-brainer! Highlights in this episode! What is it really like on a Celebrity Edge Cruise to Alaska? Alex and Suzanne pro-tips! All of the amenities on The Celebrity Edge What is a flair bartender? Why Alaska is a MUST-see! Details of the Spectacular Dawes Glacier! Let me know what you think about cruising! Have you been to Alaska? I'd love to hear about your experiences. Essential links in this episode: Postcard Jar - Fantastic news of cruises and travel by Ann & Steve Teget Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters Instagram: Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne's Amazon Shop

Are you looking for a couple of ingredients for a successful summer trip? Welcome to this minisode or mini-episode. Do you have 8 minutes? In this quick episode, we catch you up and provide a few bite-size bits of travel news! I share some fun information, and you can check out the highlights below: Episode Highlights: I'm catching you up on my fantastic cruise to Alaska with my daughter Alex. I'll give you some highlights and let you know that I am creating a special episode devoted to the cruise, which will be published on July 26th. Our podcast team is taking a mid-season hiatus because everyone is traveling simultaneously! We will reconnect later this summer. I share my summer travel plans with you! I offer three summer travel tips for a happy vacation. Make your plans early, as it is crowded everywhere! Look for personal travel connections Be patient - Seriously, this is a must! Learn to pivot This quick and "newsy" episode is a speedy highlight travel reel. We will take our travel break and see you on July 26th with a brand-new regular format episode. Safe travels, friends! Instagram: Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters Facebook: Adventures of Empty Nesters Suzanne's Amazon Shop

Embracing Life - You never know what is around the corner. Today’s guest is a very special someone and my personal Travel Connection. She is the queen of embracing life even when it is really hard. I met her not too long ago, in September 2023, while I was a host with Tuscan Women Cook in Tuscany. You may remember from a prior episode my interview with Coleen Kirnan, the owner of Tuscan Women Cook. JeriLynne Clifford and her husband Scot were part of a group participating in a week-long immersive experience in Tuscany. We learned cooking techniques from the local Italian nonnas or grandmas, sampled delicious local ingredients, and visited other neighboring towns. Meeting this special couple was a treat, but what you don't know is that we learned prior to their arrival that JeriLynne and Scot's house burned down while they were traveling in Italy. Lightning struck the house, and they lost absolutely everything. Embracing life with gratitude even through the tears Understandably, our first encounter was during probably one of the more difficult times of her life. Impossible to imagine, right? However, she was gracious and inspiring and I couldn't believe how engaging they both were. The entire week was a tremendous success and the two of them fit in with the group seamlessly. JeriLynne talks about how Italy was instrumental in the start of the healing process for them. JeriLynne is known as The Hill County Bon Vivant and has been a tastemaker for as long as she can remember. She was 16 when she catered her first wedding and continued to cater full and part-time throughout her life. She first realized her love for adventure in food, entertaining, and traveling when she started planning family vacations and events. In this episode, she shares her personal (and inspiring) saga and then gives us the delicious details of her new weekly subscription, Mastering the Ease of Home Cooking. Every week, she shares a new menu, recipes, and a grocery and prep list to help you be successful in the kitchen. Highlights in this episode How to move forward when tragedy happens Living with gratitude What is a bon vivant? How Italy helped start the healing process What the arches in her new home will mean to her What is the secret to success in the kitchen The importance of learning to pivot What is Mastering the Ease of Home Cooking? For all of the details of JeriLynne's new business Mastering the Ease of Home Cooking - Click HERE! Important Links: The Hill Country Bon Vivant Mastering the East of Home Cooking Other episodes featuring Italy: Travel to Tuscany Stories From the Heart - Angela Correll The Italian Cooking School of Your Dreams - Coleen Kirnan Travel to Italy Today - Alice Salvagnin

So you want to save money on travel? Yes! Me Too! Hello, and welcome to another fantastic episode of Travel Connections. My special guest today is Cindy Greenstein, also known as The Points Mom; she will share with you several brilliant opportunities you may not have known existed. After this interview, you will be excited to dive into your current credit card capabilities and create rewards and travel possibilities. I am so inspired. Let me tell you a little about Cindy. During her more than 20 years of marriage, Cindy Greenstein, also known as (The Points Mom) has used credit card points to travel the world while rarely paying for airline flights and hotel rooms. Some of her five-figure family travel savings include trips to Aspen ($26,000), Greece ($23,000), and London ($15,000). Cindy, an attorney and former certified public accountant, founded The Points Mom to share her credit card rewards program expertise with family, friends, and small business owners who don’t have the time to learn how to maximize their points. Highlights in this episode Why did Cindy Greenstein create The Points Mom? The benefits of accumulating points and miles The benefits of a flexible reward card What is a multiplier, and why is it important The advantage of traveling during the nonpeak seasons How you can save BIG money through these programs - SAVE MONEY ON TRAVEL! This episode is enlightening and will absolutely help you begin your credit card rewards journey. I learned so much and have already implemented her suggestions! This episode is so packed full of great information that you may want to listen twice! Important Links! The Points Mom Instagram: ThePointsMom_ Facebook: The Points Mom Travel Connections Podcast Adventures of Empty Nesters Instagram: Suzanne Stavert Adventures of Empty Nesters