Trip Tales | A Family Travel Podcast

This week I’m bringing back one of my favorite Thanksgiving episodes from last year about spending Thanksgiving on 30A in Florida. In this replay episode, I share all the details from my husband's family Thanksgiving trip to 30A – from the best places to stay to my favorite restaurants and must-do activities!Mentioned in this episode:EDIT: The best donut place on 30A is called DONUT HOLE (not Donut Den as I say in the episode)30A Communities: Seaside, Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Watersound, Watercolor, SeacrestThe house we rented: Namastay on 30AThe Big ChillPier Park Panama CityTop restaurants all in Alys Beach: George's, Citizen, O-Ku Sushi, Fonville PressDusty's Oyster Bar in Panama City BeachA Wicked movie moment!Shannon Braswell PhotographyFavorite family games: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, Santa Cookie Elf Candy Snowman, It's in the Bag, Blank SlateOrigins Golf Course in WatersoundThe Seaside Style shirts & sweatshirts - use code SEASIDEVIP

Elizabeth, a mom of three boys from Louisiana, planned an intentional one-on-one 12th birthday trip with her oldest to San Diego in October 2025, staying at the iconic Hotel del Coronado. In this episode, she shares how they spent their days tide-pooling in La Jolla, exploring the San Diego Zoo, and hiking Torrey Pines. She also walks us through how San Diego’s Kids Free October program helped stretch their budget by making most of her son’s entry fees free, and why this trip was such a special way to celebrate turning twelve.This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this epsiode:- Kelsey's COMFRT Hoodie 15% off discount link: https://comfrt.com/KELSEY279- Hotel del Coronado neighborhoods: The Views, The Victorian, The Cabanas, Beach Club, Shore House- Hotel del Coronado breakfast at The Veranda, sunsets and drinks at the Sun Deck overlooking Point Loma- San Diego Zoo, panda exhibit- Cowboy Star Steak Restaurant- Sunset Cliffs at Point Loma- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Guy Fleming Trail, Razor Point Trail to Red Butte- Birch Aquarium in La Jolla- Kayak Tour with Everyday California (leopard sharks!)- Tide-pooling in La Jolla, Viator tour with Snorkel Matt- Scripps Pier tide pooling- Village Pizzeria Coronado Island - Travel Agent: Katherine Boulet

Twinkle lights, mulled wine, and cozy vibes! Genni from @travelingfranklins joins Kelsey to share everything you need to know about visiting Europe’s Christmas Markets. In December 2024, she and her mom explored Berlin, Munich, Salzburg, and Paris at Christmastime. She shares their favorite markets, the best food and drink (glühwein, wurst, pretzels, Kasespatzle), souvenir tips, and what to wear to stay warm. Kelsey’s Comfrt Hoodie 15% off discount link: https://comfrt.com/?growi=kelsey279This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Genni's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lazy-budget-travel-tips/id1797989736- Christkindl Markets- KLM Airlines-  AMSTERDAM: Canal Cruise, Hop On Hop Off Tour- BERLIN: Moxy Airport Hotel, Bolt for taxis, Ku'damm shopping district, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, H10 Hotel Berlin, Alexanderplatz Christmas Markets, Glühwein, Gendarmenmarkt, Christmas pyramids, Kasespatzle (German mac and cheese), Lebkuchen (German gingerbread cookies), Schmalzkuchen (German donuts)- MUNICH: Lufthansa Airlines, Munich Airport Christmas Market, Marienplatz Market, Mio by Amano Hotel, The Sendlinger Tor gate, traditional Bavarian restaurant: Der Pschorr, Medieval Christmas Market- SALZBURG: The Bavarian Pass, Old Town Salzburg, Sound of Music, Christmas Wonderland Bar + Lounge near St. Peter's Church- Pack bubble wrap- PARIS: Ladurée Paris at Christmas, The Palais-Royal, Hôtel Thérèse, Tuileries Garden, Galeries Lafayette, Christmas Illuminations Hop On Hop Off TourTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Germany, Austria, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Kelsey talks with Danielle, whose family of four has spent two spring breaks in Whitefish, Montana (and they’re booked for a third because they love it so much). Danielle also visited in summer for a girls’ trip to the Under the Big Sky Music Festival, so she compares Whitefish in winter vs. summer and shares why it’s a repeat favorite for her family!This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Danielle's Whitefish, MT Ski Trip VRBO - Kelsey's COMFRT Hoodies Discount Link (X out all other offer pop-ups to keep link activated)- Kallispell Montana Airport - Under the Big Sky Music Festival- PA/NY Ski Resorts: Seven Springs, Peak'n Peak, Holiday Valley- Restaurants: Hell Roaring Saloon, Abruzzo, Jalisco Cantina, Loula's Cafe (for breakfast & Huckleberry Pie), Last Chair Restaurant & Bar- Glacier National Park: The Going to the Sun Road- Downtown Whitefish: Vibe Wellness Lounge, Stumptown Art Studio- TuroTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Amanda and her family of four flew halfway around the world in December 2024 to spend Christmas with her in-laws on the island of Java, relaxed in Bali at the Hyatt Regency Bali (booked with points!) and ended the trip by exploring the kid-friendly side of Singapore!This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Earn 125,000 points with Sapphire Reserve or 75,000 points with Sapphire Preferred -> Chase Sapphire & Ink Business Credit Card Referral Link- BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seat, Kids Airplane Seat Extender, Double-Zip Compression Packing Cubes- San Francisco: SFO Airport, Grand Hyatt SFO, Fisherman's Wharf, Boudin Bakery, Golden Gate Bridge, Ghirardelli Square- Java: Becak ride- Bali: Denpasar airport, Hyatt Regency Bali, pools, spa, beach, kids club- Singapore: Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay, Gardens of the BayTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

NOTE TO PARENTS: We’re keeping the magic alive in this episode, so it’s completely safe to listen with little ears! I did have a few grown-up questions that I asked my guest offline—if you’re curious too, head over to our Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook group, where I’ve shared all the behind-the-scenes answers about how the magic really unfolded.This week on the Trip Tales Podcast, we’re heading north—way north—to Lapland, Finland! My guest Amy packed up her family of four and flew to the snowy Arctic Circle in December 2024 to experience the most magical Christmas trip imaginable.They joined a guided tour with Canterbury Travel, met Santa in his very own home, went dog sledding with huskies, fed reindeer, played with elves, and sipped warm Finnish berry juice under twinkling lights and endless snow!You can now watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesMentioned in this episode:- Canterbury Travel Tours out of the UK- Lapland, Finland- Father Christmas- Kuusamo, Finland- Rukka Valley Ski Area- Gatwick AirportTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Kyle from Virginia, whose family of four loved Club Med Québec-Charlevoix so much, they returned two years in a row — first over New Year’s 2024 and again in January 2025.It’s an all-inclusive ski resort where lessons, lift tickets, food, and drinks are all included! Kyle was a first-time skier when he visited in 2023, and it’s where he learned to ski — now his whole family can’t get enough.Tune in to hear why this resort just outside Québec City, Canada, has become their go-to winter destination, what to expect from the ski-in/ski-out experience, how the kids’ club works, what the food’s really like, and why this might just be the easiest ski trip you’ll ever plan.Mentioned in this episode:- Club Med Québec-Charlevoix- Superior Family Room Review- Ski Lessons and Kids Club- Quebec City: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, 1884 Toboggan Slide, Poutine!- Baie-Saint-Paul: La Reine et le Millionnaire Dog SleddingThis episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Trip Tales regular Ryan is back! But this time he’s joined by his wife Heather for a fun couples getaway to Las Vegas in July 2025. In this episode, they share all the details from their 3-night trip, including Heather’s lifelong love of the Backstreet Boys and how Ryan scored tickets to see them at The Sphere. They also ventured out for a Red Rock Canyon scooter tour, found great food around the Strip, and enjoyed some much-needed couple time away from their busy life with four kids back home. This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesMentioned in this episode:- Capital One Venture X Lounge in Dallas- The Paris Hotel- The Bellagio- The Bedford, Martha Stewart's Restaurant- Red Rock Canyon Tour- In-N-Out Vegas- Gonzalez y Gonzalez restaurant in the New York, New York hotel- Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil- Alexxa's brunch (NOTE: In the episode Heather calls this restaurant Amelia's and raves about the breakfast. It's actually Alexxa's.)- Back Street Boys Immersive Experience- Sushi Samba VegasTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Join Kelsey and her bestie Danae (a Trip Tales fan fav!) as they share all the details from Danae’s family of four's dreamy 9-day New England summer adventure in August 2025. This trip was packed with coastal vibes and bucket-list stops — from three days on Block Island, a charming and approachable alternative to Nantucket, to a stop in Ogunquit, Maine for a private sailboat ride, to the show-stopping Bar Harbor Inn right at the edge of Acadia National Park.Danae gives us the scoop on ferries, family-friendly hikes, unforgettable seafood (lobster rolls, chowder, and fresh steamers!), and why Acadia’s Great Head hike and Sand Beach were the highlight of the entire trip. You’ll also hear why the Bar Harbor Inn blew her away with unexpected touches like homemade cookies, s’mores by the fire, and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesMentioned in this episode:- Providence, Rhode Island - Point Judith Terminal | Block Island Ferry- Block Island AirBNB Rental: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52534528- Block Island hikes: Mohegan Bluffs, Rodman's Hollow- Block Island beaches: Andy's Way, Crescent Beach- Block Island restaurants: The Oar, The National, The Spring House Hotel- Block Island official drink: The Mudslide- Ogunquit: Anchorage by the Sea Hotel, Marginal Way, Barnacle Billy's- Boston and Newburyport, MA- Bar Harbor: The Bar Harbor Inn, Lunch (sandwich shop), Geddy's, Galyn's, Land Bridge Hike- 4th Grade National Park Pass- Acadia National Park: Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain. Hikes: Great Head, Sand Beach, Jordan River Pond, Bubble Rock, Little Hunters BeachTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Kelsey is joined by Kellie from @frompointstoplaces on Instagram to share her family’s Spring Break 2025 trip to the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs, Florida. Kellie, her husband, and their two daughters (ages 5 and 8) booked their stay entirely with Chase Ultimate Rewards points and spent their days enjoying multiple pools, waterslides, a lazy river, and the resort’s private island beach.They also ventured out to nearby spots, including Marco Island for a shelling tour, Naples, and Wonder Gardens.This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesMentioned in this episode:- Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs, FL- Trip Tales episode: The Chase to Hyatt Transfer Strategy That is Blowing My Mind- My Chase Sapphire Preferred Referral Link- RSW Fort Myers Airport- Southwest Companion Pass- Tanglewood Restaurant- Iguana Mia Mexican Restaurant in Bonita Springs- Royal Scoop Ice Cream- Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing & Shelling Tour- Stan's Idle Hour Goodland, FL- Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs- The Emerald CoastTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Kelsey and her sister spent 3 nights in August 2025 at one of Cancun’s newest all-inclusives — Ava Resort — and are spilling all the details you need to know before you go. From its 17 restaurants and bars to the endless lineup of kids activities, this resort is designed for families, couples, and friend getaways alike. But the real show-stopper? A stunning 2.8-acre salt-water lagoon unlike anything else in Cancun. Plus, hear how their trip took an unforgettable turn when they ended up dancing the night away with Bachelor winner Juliana Pasquarosa!Mentioned in this episode:- Ava Resort All-Inclusive - Ava Resort Airport Transfer- 2.8 acre salt water lagoon- Global EntryThis episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: triptalespodcast@gmail.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Kelsey sits down with Caroline to hear all about her son’s special 10th birthday adventure in June 2025 that started with a solo trip to Seattle for a Mariners baseball game, continued with a sleeper train ride to Hollywood for a day at Universal Studios, and ended with the whole family spending 5 magical nights at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii. Caroline shares everything you need to know about visiting Aulani with kids including the Disney luau, kids clubs, food, pools, activities, and even hula-ing with Minnie Mouse.This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: triptalespodcast@gmail.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesMentioned in this episode:- Caroline's Evermore Resort (Orlando, FL) episode- Seattle to LA via the Amtrak Coast Starlight Sleeper Train- Silver Cloud Inn in Seattle across from Mariners stadium- Seattle Gum Wall- SKYJO Card Game- Sheraton Universal Hotel in Hollywood, CA- Universal Studios Hollywood- Honolulu Airport: Daniel K. Inouye International - Hele Hele shuttle- Disney Planner: https://www.jkmousetravel.com/- Aulani Resort: Rainbow Reef, Painted Sky, Spa, Auntie's Beach House Kids Club, Luau, Scavenger Hunt, Ama Ama, Makahiki, The Olelo Room (sushi bar), - Pearl Harbor- Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: Mina's Fish House by Michael Mina- Monkeypod- Ko Olina, HawaiiTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Kelsey chats with Tracey, a travel advisor from Revival Travel Collective and @revivaltravelco on Instagram, about her family’s multigenerational trip to Ireland in June 2025. Tracey’s dad had always dreamed of returning to Ireland to find his grandparents’ home. It was also her two daughters’ (ages 9 and 7) very first international trip, making it an extra special family adventure. From Dublin to Kilkenny, Cork and the Blarney Castle, Killarney, and Galway, Tracey shares the highlights, challenges, and magical moments of exploring Ireland with kids.Mentioned in this episode:- Nashville Tour Co: Nashville Pedal Tavern, Nashville Toons, Beve Curated, Fab Tap- Delta One- Reusable Sticker Books- Renting a car in Ireland - New Way Car Hire- The Little Brew Cafe in Kilcullen, Ireland- Rock of Cashel- Kilkenny: Mount Juliet Estate, the Clubhouse Restaurant, The Hound- Cobh, Ireland- Blarney/Cork: Blarney Woollen Mills Hotel, Blarney Castle with kids, McCarthy name from County Cork- Kinsale Beach town in Ireland: lunch at The White House- Best Western hotels in America vs. Europe- Killarney National Park- Muckross House and Muckross Farms- Kilkee (Kilkee cliff walk)- Cliffs of Moher- Galway Latin Quarter- The Galmount Hotel in Galway, Ireland, The Murty Rabbit Restaurant- The Lodge at Ashford Castle- Moran's Oyster Cottage- Clonmacnoise Monastic Site.- DUBLIN: Dublinia Viking Museum and Christ Church Cathedral, Marlin Hotel Dublin, St Stephen's Green, La Caverna Dublin, Grafton Street, George Street ArcadeIf you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: triptalespodcast@gmail.comTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Kelsey sits down with Shannon to hear all about her family’s multigenerational trip to Maui, Hawaii in June 2025. Shannon, her husband, and their two young daughters (ages 3 and 5) met up with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins for a magical big family vacation. They stayed oceanfront at Honua Kai Resort, which felt more like living in Hawaii than visiting. From cousin adventures to unforgettable moments at Merriman’s Maui, Shannon shares all the details, tips, and highlights that made this Hawaii trip one full of family memories.Mentioned in this episode:- JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix Arizona- Inflatable Travel Foot Rest- Attached Travel Pillow + Blanket Set- OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa- Lahaina wildfire- Duke's Restaurant (Hula Pie dessert!) - Maui Brewing Company- Cards Against Humanity- Luau at the Sheraton Hotel Maui- Slappy Cakes Maui- Magical Enchanted Forest- Honolua Bay Snorkeling- Merriman's Restaurant at Kapalua Beach on Maui- Monkey Pod MauiTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation.

Kelsey interviews Jodie from the Learners & Makers blog and YouTube channel, who joined the podcast live from Japan! Jodie is an above-the-knee amputee who shares her love of family travel and how she navigates mobility differences while exploring the world. Together they dive into the ultimate family trip to Japan - covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, plus Tokyo Disney and DisneySea. From Pokémon, anime, and One Piece to karaoke, sushi, and must-try Japanese foods, Jodie shares insider tips that make Japan both magical and manageable for families. They also discuss how to navigate Japan’s train system with kids in tow. Even if Japan wasn’t on your travel list before, this episode might just change that!Show your support for the podcast by leaving a review or buying me a coffee!Follow Kelsey on Instagram!Mentioned in this episode:- Weak Yen makes for a financially reasonable trip- Two Tokyo airports: Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND)- Klook: App for airport transfers and tours in Japan- Uber and GoTaxi apps- The Shinkansen bullet train in Japan- The Golden Triangle: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka- TOKYO: Ueno Park (playgrounds, zoo), Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, "Kitchen Street" = Kappabashi Street, Tokyo Station, SUICA Card, PASMO card, Karaoke, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shinto (Japanese indigenous religion), JUMP Shops (Anime, Manga), One Piece Mugiwara shops (straw hats), teamLab Museums (Planets and Borderless)- Tokyo Disney & DisneySea (Duffy mech)- KYOTO: Geisha, wander around Gion area (shops), Bamboo Forest, stay in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn), traditional Japanese breakfast, Japanese Souffle Pancakes- OSAKA "The Kitchen of Japan": Native foods to try = Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki ("as you like it"), baseball, Osaka river and Dotonbori, Don Quijote - Ebisu Tower Doutonbori Giant Ferris Wheel, river boat tour, Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, Namba, Universal Studios Japan- Recommended Japanese chain restaurant: KuraTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itineraries, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation.

Kelsey interviews Jenna about her multigenerational family road trip through the Florida Keys in April 2025. Jenna, her husband, their two boys (ages 7 and 9), and her parents hit the road from Miami, making memorable stops in Homestead, Islamorada, Marathon, Long Key, and Key West. From quirky roadside attractions to oceanfront stays and delicious local eats, this episode is packed with fun ideas for your own Florida Keys adventure. Jenna also shares details about their epic (and rocky!) journey to Dry Tortugas National Park.Mentioned in this episode:- Best Western Plus Miami Airport North- Keys Fisheries, Marathon FL for stone crab- Homestead: The Coral Castle (Edward Leedskalnin), White Lion Cafe, Robert Is Here Fruit Stand- Overseas Highway- Lime Tree Bay Resort - Layton / Long Key- Islamorada: Robbie's of Islamorada (tarpon)- Keyz Charters - 2 hour private snorkel trip to Alligator Reef Lighthouse- Habanos oceanfront Cuban restaurant- Crane Point Hammock Nature Center- Key West hotels: Best Western Hibiscus Key West, Casa Marina, H2O Suites  - Seaside Cafe at the Mansion - Lobster Bianca Pizza- Dry Tortugas National Park & Fort Jefferson- Key West Conch Train- Mel Fisher Maritime Museum- Key West Aquarium- First Flight Restaurant- Louie's Backyard- Blue Heaven Brunch- Mallory Square Sunset Celebration- Doc's Diner- Towne Place Suites Miami AirportTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itineraries, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation.

Kelsey chats with Jamie from @jamie.travel.tips on Instagram about her August 2024 trip to Disneyland California with her two young boys, mother-in-law, and best friend. Jamie shares exactly how she made this magical trip budget-friendly—using points to stay at the Hyatt House Anaheim Convention Center (family room with bunk beds!) and even booking park tickets on points! Tune in for favorite rides, must-try food, and practical money-saving tips straight from a former Disney cast member. Buy Me a CoffeeFollow Kelsey on InstagramMentioned in this episode:- Purchased park tickets through Getaway Today or Undercover Tourist so your purchase codes as "Travel"- Capital One Venture Credit Card - Travel Eraser- Disneyland Magic Keys- Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center (free breakfast)- ART (Anaheim Regional Transportation) Shuttle to Disneyland- Oga's Cantina- Carnation Cafe- Disney California Adventure Park: Web Slingers, Radiator Springs, Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, Wine Country Trattoria, San Fransokyo Square, Soarin'- Anaheim Packing District: Food HallTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itineraries, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation.

Kelsey sits down with Stephanie Howard from Traveling Ears Vacations (@travelingearsvacations) on Instagram, who got an exclusive preview of Epic Universe in May 2025! Stephanie takes us through the portals, explores the brand‑new lands, rides the incredible attractions, and samples the amazing food - including charcuterie boards and cocktails at the swanky rooftop bar atop the Helios Grand Hotel. She’s sharing her best tips, favorite eats, and must‑ride attractions to help you get ready for Universal Orlando’s newest park!Buy Me a CoffeeMentioned in this episode:- Sapphire Falls- New hotels: Helios Grand, Stella Luna, Terra Luna- Epic Universe portals- Super Nintendo World: Mario Kart - Bowser's Challenge, Yoshi's Adventure, Minecart Madness, Toadstool Cafe- Dark Universe: Monsters Unchained, Curse of the Werewolf, the Burning Blade Tavern- Helios Grand rooftop bar, Flora Taverna- Isle of Berk | How to Train Your Dragon: Viking Training Camp playground, Hiccups Wing Gliders, Fyre Drill- Harry Potter Ministry of Magic: K. Rammelle candy shop, Café L’air De La Sirène French restaurantCelestial Park: Constellation Carousel, Stardust Racers- Valet ParkingTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itineraries, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation.

In this episode, Joe joins me on the pod as we share every detail of our July 2025 trip to Cabo San Lucas, including how we stayed at The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, for $0 using points.We talk through our trip budget, why we prioritize couples trips, and the adventures that made this getaway unforgettable:Hiking Mt. Solmar with the legendary dog trainer EnriqueSnorkeling and jumping off a catamaran into crystal-clear watersA romantic dinner at Esperanza’s Cocina del MarAnd yes, breakfast burritos every single morning of our tripBuy Me a CoffeeEarn 125,000 points with Sapphire Reserve or 75,000 points with Sapphire Preferred -> Chase Sapphire & Ink Business Credit Card Referral LinkMentioned in this episode:- The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, Hyatt, Cabo San Lucas Mexico- YNAB app - You Need a Budget- Sunny Desert Transfer or LOMAS- Southwest Airlines Upgraded Boarding via Performance Business Credit Card- San Jose del Cabo vs. Cabo San Lucas- The Rooftop at The Cape Hotel- Enrique's Mr. Solmar hike with dogs - Enrique's Facebook Page- Enrique's hike address: Antigüa Empacadora de Cabo, Blvd. Paseo de la Marina s/n, Centro, San Lucas, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico- Brunch at Solomon's Landing- Esperanza's Cocina del Mar- Cabo Adventures Snorkel ExcursionTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itineraries, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation.

Ryan is back on the podcast! After sharing his couples trip to Costa Rica last year on Episode 15, he returns with another couples summer getaway, this time to Placencia, Belize. The best part - this fabulous trip started as a school auction prize!In June 2025, Ryan and three other couples headed to a stunning vacation home in Belize complete with a private chef, daily laundry service, and even a personal boat driver who took them to dinner by sea. From snorkeling adventures to a BBQ on a private island, the group relaxed and enjoyed paradise.This episode is presented by Level 8 Luggage. Use code PreAS20 for 20% site-wide in July! I'm loving the 20-inch Luminous Carry On in Pink.Buy Me a CoffeeEarn free travel by applying for my favorite travel credit card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred, with my link!Mentioned in this episode:- Gecko Vacation Rentals in Belize- Island Time Gecko vacation rental home in Placencia, Belize- Belize City- Cessna Grand Caravan Turboprop Plane- Manatees- Restaurants: Barefoot Bar, Tipsy Tuna, Tutti Frutti Gelato, Omar's, Rum Fish, Placencia Yacht Club- Turtle Inn - A Francis Ford Coppola Hideaway- Snorkeling in Belize National Parks- Global Entry