Trip Tales | A Family Travel Podcast

Kelsey Unpacked is here, and we’re kicking things off with something I do every single year: choosing one word to guide my entire year.In this very first episode, I’m sharing my word for 2026, why I picked it, and what I’m hoping it brings into my life, my travel, and my work. And because we’re unpacking things a little deeper on Wednesdays, I’m also pulling back the curtain and sharing exactly how much money my podcast made in 2025, and what I’m focusing on next as Trip Tales keeps growing.Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesMentioned in this episode:- My Amazon Daily Planner: https://amzlink.to/az0epIpAZQjgO- Fair Play book: https://amzn.to/494y1sX- Fair Play card game: https://amzn.to/49HdpGj- The Calm App- HOTWORX

In this episode of Trip Tales, I’m chatting with Monica an American mom who’s been living in Norway for the past 8 years with her family. Monica is the founder of Wanderwild Family Retreats (wanderwildfamilyretreats.com) and shares her best tips for visiting Bergen with kids from fjords and funiculars to troll hikes, cozy hygge vibes, and a real life Polar Express experience. She’s packed this episode with her favorite spots and local insight and let’s just say… I’m officially booking my trip to Bergen ASAP! You can find Monica on Instagram at @wanderwildfamilyretreats (https://www.instagram.com/wanderwildfamilyretreats).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:- Oslo vs. Bergen- The Bergen Line Train - a real-life Polar Express!- Bergen International Airport- Bryggen - historical seaport town in Bergen- Viking history- Island of Askoy- The Hanseatic Hotel- Fin.no vacation rentals- Mount Floyen, Floibanen Funicular, Skomakerstuen Cafe- Bergen Aquarium- Island of Herdla- Fjord cruises in Flam- Norway in a Nutshell tour- Voss Ski Resort Area- Geirangerfjord- Hygge lifestyle- Pinosha salted meat - Bergen coffee and sandwich shop: Godt Brød Vestre Torggaten- Bergen dinner spots: Brasilia (https://brasilia.no), Cartel's (https://www.cartels.no)- Weather in NorwayTrip 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.

This was my #1 most listened to episode of 2025! If you’re planning a trip to Marco Island, Florida (or hoping to soon) this is your complete start-to-finish guide.I’m sharing exactly where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and the little details that make a Marco trip feel so special. I also break down my favorite sunset spots, family-friendly activities, and cost-saving tips.If 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:- Episode 1: Marco Island, FL - Staying at the Hilton with Nicole's Family of 5- Episode 7: Marcos Island, FL - The Iconic JW Marriott Marco Island Had Jenni's Family of 4 Feeling Like They Had Left the U.S.- Fort Myers Airport - Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)- Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)- JW Marriott Marco Island (10K Alley Arcarde) and Paradise by Sirene Rooms- Marriott Crystal Shores- Hilton Marco Island- Calusa Spirit via Marco Island Water Sports (Dolphins!)- Keewaydin Island- Pirates of Marco Island, Marco Golf & Garden, Mackle Park- Doreen's Cup of Joe, Cocomo's "U Hook It, We Cook It!", Joey's Pizza, Snook Inn (and Milton the Manatee), Oyster Society, Tesoro, Fin Bistro, Sweet Annie's- Isle of Capri: Island Gypsy and Capri Fish HouseTrip 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 case you missed it last year (or you’re in full holiday chaos and need an easy listen), this week is a Trip Tales Replay of my Park City ski trip recap and it’s packed with tips you can actually use to plan your own trip.I’m sharing all the details from our family’s winter getaway to Park City, Utah, including why skiing The Canyons side of Park City Mountain Resort is our favorite. Plus, you’ll get my go-to restaurants, where we ate, and how we rang in the New Year in Park City. If a Park City ski trip is on your list for this winter or next, this replay is full of great, relevant info to help you plan it.If 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:- Trip Tales Episode - Park City, UT - The Ultimate Family Ski Guide: Why We Only Ski The Canyons Side of PCMR: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trip-tales-a-family-travel-podcast/id1731455602?i=1000678149908- White Amazon Ski Bibs: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/Oqhp9WhiteSkiBibs- Tipsy Elves Retro Ski Jacket: https://www.tipsyelves.com/products/womens-navy-retro-striped-winter-ski-jacket- Long Johns: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/vrNMMThermaJaneWomens- HESTRA Ski Gloves: https://amzlink.to/az03rZ0zIj3TW (Size 8)- White Ski Helmet: https://amzn.to/4gOfbYt (Size Large)- BlackStrap Ski Mask: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/BlackStrapSkiMask- Ski Goggles: https://amzn.to/48DptJc- Favorite family games: It's In the Bag https://amzlink.to/az08s05VqwhMb & Flip 7 https://amzlink.to/az0ecfatrzQIM- Restaurants: Red Tail Grill, Drafts Burger Bar, Billy Blanco's, Lookout Cabin, Pine Cone Ridge, Park City Roadhouse Grill, Main St. Pizza & Noodle, Edge Steakhouse- Hotels in the Canyons Village: Westgate Resort, Hyatt Centric, The Summit, The Sundial, The Pendry, Yotel Pad- Westgate Presidential Suite booked through StayLuxe Park City- Bootworks bootfitters in Park City, shin bang, Lange ski boots

Kelsey’s family of five, her sister’s family of four, and their parents spent the week of Thanksgiving in Orlando in November 2025 with kids ages 4–13, all sharing a gorgeous house at Evermore Resort as their home base. In Part 1, Kelsey recapped Epic Universe, Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure. In Part 2, she's recapping Magic Kingdom, and Epcot — plus their off day / resort day on Thanksgiving, complete with an amazing holiday meal at Evermore. She shares Lightning Lane tips, favorite food and drink finds from Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays, the entire group’s first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and all the reasons Disney World at Christmastime felt absolutely magical (including a few tears of the joy over her love of family travel).If 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: - Kelsey's COMFRT Hoodie 15% off discount link: https://comfrt.com/KELSEY279- Disney Planner: Courtney Gibson (courtneyg@pixietravelco.com) and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pixietravelbycourtney/- Magic Kingdom: Fantasyland, Dumbo, Barnstormer, Peter Pan, Mirabel from Encanto, Storybook Circus, The Little Mermaid, It's a Small World, HIGHLIGHT: Enchanted Tales with Belle, Sword and the Stone, Pinocchio Village Haus, Haunter Mansion, Tiana's Bayou, Tony's Town Square- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: Free Christmas cookies, ornament keepsake, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Tron, Tomorrowland Speedway, Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks- Thanksgiving Day at Evermore Resort: Thanksgiving Meal at Evermore's Boat House, pool, waterslide, rope swing, hair braiding, trivia, flag football, stand up paddle boards, kayaks- Epcot: Joffrey's coffee, La Crêperie de Paris, Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen Ever After, Space 220, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Journey of Water (Inspired by Moana), Soarin, Test Track, Living with the Land, Figmemt, World Showcase: China, Mexico, Germany (Bavarian Food Stand), ItalyTrip 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 recaps her family’s epic Thanksgiving week in Orlando, Florida (November 2025), where 11 of them – her family of 5, her sister’s family, and her parents – all shared a 7-bedroom house at Evermore Resort. With kids ranging from 4 to 13 years old, they packed in all the fun: Express Passes at Epic Universe, Universal Studios Orlando, and Islands of Adventure, plus lots of downtime enjoying their multi-generational home base at Evermore. Kelsey shares everything you need to know about staying at Evermore Resort, how Express Passes worked for their crew, what the parks were like over Thanksgiving week, and tips to help you decide if this kind of Orlando trip is right for you.If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comFollow 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:- Travel planner Courtney Gibson (email: courtneyg@pixietravelco.com), Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pixietravelbycourtney- Flip 7 card game: https://amzlink.to/az0ecfatrzQIM- Evermore Resort- Epic Universe with Express Passes- Ministry of Magic: Battle at the Ministry- Isle of Berk: Hiccup's Wing Gliders, Mead Hall for lunch- Celestial Park: Stardust Racers, Celestial Carousel- Super Mario Land- Dark Universe: Monsters Unchained, Curse of the Werewolf, Burning Blade Tavern- Helios Grand Hotel- Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: Butter Beer, Seuss Landing, VelociCoaster, Mythos Restaurant, Hogwarts Express, Universal's Holiday ParadeTrip 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.

Matthew from South Bend, Indiana, joins Kelsey to share how he and his wife planned a Pacific Northwest road trip for their family of four (with their 5-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter) to meet up with extended family in Spokane, Washington, Missoula, Montana, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. They chat about using hotel points and an Airbnb, favorite riverfront parks and playgrounds, easy hikes with big views, lake time, and all the delicious food stops along the way.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:- Comfrt Hoodie 15% Off Discount Link: https://comfrt.com/KELSEY279- Snacklebox Link: https://amzlink.to/az0QsoCiIT2zv- Blue Sky Chicago O'hare Airport Parking- Going App- Spokane: Riverfront Park & Playground- Gonzaga University- La Quinta Inn & Suites Spokane- Citi Strata Premier- Vieuxcarre Cajun/Creole Restaurant- Huckleberry Milkshakes- St. Regis Rest StopMissoula, MT: Fairfield Suites Missoula Airport, waterslides, the Old Port- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card, M-Hike, Dragon's Hollow Park, Big Dipper Ice Cream, Public Library, University of Montana: Geology Building and Student Union, Tamarack Brewery- Coeur d'Alene: McEuen Park, Roger's Burgers, Mineral Ridge Hike, Old Wagon Trail, Tubb's Hill, Floating Island Green, Fisherman's Market & GrillTrip 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.

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.