Stacking Adventures: Every Traveler Has a Story

What if the trip you've been dreaming about doesn't have to wait until retirement—or cost a fortune? Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy sit down with road-trippers Miranda and Jason, who just wrapped a 26-day adventure from Idaho to Oregon. Hot springs. Star-filled skies. A night in a giant flowerpot Airbnb (yes, really). And the best part? They didn't come home broke. Miranda and Jason break down exactly how they made it work: credit card points, camping hacks, and the art of saying "yes" to spontaneity without blowing the budget. Because here's the thing—adventure doesn't require endless cash. It requires courage, creativity, and knowing where to splurge and where to save. This episode isn't just a highlight reel of epic stops (though Crater Lake and Boise's Pride Festival definitely make appearances). It's about what happens when you prioritize experiences over perfection, unplug from the noise, and rediscover why you wanted to explore in the first place. Whether you're planning your own cross-country trip or just daydreaming about one, you'll walk away with the roadmap—and the permission slip—to finally go. What You'll Take With You: The exact strategy Miranda and Jason used to fund 26 days on the road (points, perks, and smart camping) How to balance spontaneity with a budget that won't give you anxiety at the gas pump Hidden gems and unforgettable stops from Craters of the Moon to the Oregon coast Why unplugging (even for a few days) might be the best investment you make this year Proof that you don't need fancy hotels or a perfect plan to have the trip of a lifetime Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What trip have you been putting off because you think you can't afford it—or don't have the time? What if the real problem isn't money or schedules... it's just giving yourself permission to go? Got a road trip story or a dream destination? Drop it in the comments—we want to hear where you're headed next. For our gear of the day pic head to StackingAdventures.com/GOTD Tell us your story! Head to StackingAdventures.com/MyStory with YOUR road trip adventure!

Imagine if you went to a place where people knew how to save money AND also to have fun? How about if those same people LOVED dishing out advice? Crystal and Joe attended FinCon, a financial media creator's conference in Portland, Oregon, and Crystal shoved her microphone in the faces of some of the TOP money people at the event. Luckily, they all loved it AND shared some incredible gems. From reward stacking to where to stay in the hotel, and from visas to food, we cover everything so that you're ready for your next adventure. Find our Gear of the Day at stackingadventures.com/GOTD Join the show yourself by sharing a story! You'll have five minutes to tell it by going to stackingadventures.com/MyStory

Ever dream of packing five countries and a lifetime of memories into less than a month? Buckle up, Adventurer — this episode of Stacking Adventures takes you along for a whirlwind 26-day journey across Europe and beyond. Hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy sit down with globetrotter Jon to unpack the highs, lows, and priceless lessons from his epic family sabbatical — a trip that covered Germany, England, France, Iceland, and Turkey in one unforgettable run. From castles and cathedrals to kebabs and cold plunges, we explore how John made the most of every stop — and how he paid for it all with smart use of credit card points and travel hacking. You’ll hear how he balanced logistics, teenage moods, and must-see sites, plus the reality of making tough choices when time is short. Along the way, Crystal and Joe share their own favorite moments (and mishaps) that prove the best travel stories come from the unexpected. Whether you’re planning a multi-country itinerary or just dreaming about one, this episode is packed with insights to help you make it happen. Because the world is too big — and too delicious — to see one country at a time. What You’ll Learn Points and perks: How Jon leveraged rewards programs to cut costs on flights, hotels, and transportation. Must-see stops: Insider tips on what to do (and skip) in places like Bath, Mont Saint-Michel, and Iceland’s Golden Circle. Teen-tested strategies: How to plan a trip that keeps the whole family engaged without overloading the itinerary. One-bag travel secrets: Why packing light might be the smartest decision you make before you even leave home. Quick-hit destinations: Creative ways to maximize short stays in countries like Turkey and Iceland. Questions to Explore If you had 26 days to see multiple countries, how would you prioritize your stops? What’s the one travel splurge you’d never skip, even on a budget trip? Could you live out of a single bag for a month — or do you need that extra pair of shoes? Find our awesome Gear of the Day picks recommended by our guests AND hosts: StackingAdventures.com/GearOfTheDay Join the fun and share YOUR story with us! StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

What happens when you mix rolling vineyards, crashing waves, and a lake so blue it looks Photoshopped? You get Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond’s four-day adventure across Oregon. From sipping Pinot in the Willamette Valley to standing awestruck on the rim of Crater Lake, this whirlwind journey proves you don’t need months off to pack in once-in-a-lifetime moments. Along the way, Joe and Crystal share the highs, lows, and a few surprises—like where to find coastal gems that aren’t overrun with tourists, why Bend might be Oregon’s best-kept secret, and which travel snacks pass Crystal’s “road trip survival” test. Toss in some gear talk, essential tips, and the kind of stories that make you want to toss a bag in the car immediately, and you’ve got a virtual road trip worth every mile. Whether you’re planning your own trek through Oregon or just craving some vicarious adventure from the comfort of your couch, this episode is your ticket to wine-soaked afternoons, windswept coastlines, and wide-eyed wonder. What You’ll Discover on This Adventure Where to sip your way through Oregon’s wine country (without breaking your budget). The best spots along the coast to trade crowds for peace and quiet. Why Crater Lake will ruin you for every other lake you’ve ever seen. Bend highlights that blend outdoor thrills with small-town charm. The gear that kept this trip running smoothly (and Crystal’s surprising favorite travel snack). Find our gear of the day at StackingAdventures.com/GearOfTheDay  

Why settle for one vacation story when you can get a whole passport’s worth in a single episode? Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy are joined by fellow wanderlusters from the Stacking Adventures community to swap tales that stretch from Main Street U.S.A. to the shores of Zakynthos. Think budget-friendly Disney hacks, Parisian magic, Chicago deep-dish memories, and the kind of Greek beach you only find when you take a wrong turn and just keep driving. In true Adventurer fashion, these stories aren’t just about where we went—they’re about what we learned along the way. Whether it’s how to make the most of Disney Vacation Club points, why rope drop might be your best friend, or which off-the-beaten-path spots will earn a permanent place on your bucket list, this episode is packed with practical tips wrapped in wanderlust. You’ll hear about unexpected gems, clever ways to stretch your travel budget, and the gear that makes every trip smoother. If your suitcase is already half-packed (mentally, at least), get ready for new ideas to add to your itinerary and a few “I need to try that!” moments. Consider this your boarding call for a whirlwind tour of travel tales you’ll want to steal for your own adventures. What You’ll Explore in This Episode: Hidden gems in Disney, Chicago, Paris, and Greece that deserve a spot on your map Disney park strategies—from rope drop at Epcot to navigating Hollywood Studios like a pro How to make the most of Disney Vacation Club points and other timeshare perks A little-known Greek beach that might just ruin you for all other shorelines Travel gear picks that earn their place in your carry-on every time Community stories packed with tips, laughs, and new travel inspiration Questions for the Adventurers’ Clubhouse: What’s the best hidden gem you’ve ever stumbled upon while traveling? If you had to pick only one—Disney, a European city, or a tropical island—which gets your suitcase? What’s your go-to piece of travel gear you’d never leave home without? For our gear of the day head to StackingAdventures.com/GOTD AND to be on our NEXT Adventurer's Tales episode, record your up-to-five minute story here: StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

What happens when you spend a year crisscrossing the globe (and occasionally your own backyard) with a microphone, an eye for hidden gems, and a love of a good travel story? You get twelve months of unforgettable moments, unexpected lessons, and more “Gear of the Day” picks than we can count. In this milestone episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy celebrate our first birthday in style—revisiting epic destinations, listener favorites, and the travel themes that defined our debut year. From the romantic charm of Italy and the windswept coasts of Ireland to the magical streets of Disney World and the rugged trails of our national parks, we’ve shared the journey with you, our Adventurer community. We’ll swap stories about our most memorable stops, laugh about the surprises (bedbugs and airport bookstore “borrowing” included), and spotlight the listener tales that made us want to pack our bags all over again. Along the way, we’ll talk packing strategies that actually work, the value of travel reward programs that don’t collect dust, and the adventures you can find just a few steps outside your own front door. Whether you’ve been with us since episode one or you’re just discovering the Clubhouse, this anniversary episode is part travelogue, part gratitude letter, and part rallying cry for the adventures still to come. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Our top five travel moments and the lessons that came with them The listener stories that stole the show Why Italy, Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and Disney World keep calling us back The power of point reward programs (when you actually use them) How to find adventure in your own hometown Why the right travel gear makes all the difference Questions to Bring to the Clubhouse What’s your own “top travel moment” from the past year? Have you ever had a trip saved (or ruined) by one piece of gear? Which place from our past year’s adventures would you most like to visit next? Our Gear of the Day Catalog is at StackingAdventures.com/gotd Join the show with YOUR story at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

Paris might be the City of Light, but if you’re not careful, it can also be the City of “Why did I pay this much for that?” In this episode, Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy welcome travel expert Caroline O’Connell, author of Affordable Paris Hotels, to help you fall in love with Paris without falling into tourist traps—or questionable bedding situations (Crystal’s unexpected bedbug encounter is proof). From booking boutique hotels that make you feel like a Parisian in the know, to picking neighborhoods that mix romance with walkability, Caroline’s tips will save you money, elevate your stay, and help you avoid the “too good to be true” listings. She shares the charm of Saint-Germain, why you should book directly with hotels, and how to time your trip to avoid crowds (and get better rates). And because romance is as much a part of Paris as croissants, we also explore jazz clubs, afternoon teas, and lazy cruises down the Seine. Whether you’re chasing a whirlwind weekend, a slow stroll through history, or the perfect spot for café people-watching, this episode delivers the insider knowledge Adventurers need to make their Paris trip unforgettable—and affordable. What You’ll Discover How to score budget-friendly stays without sacrificing charm or location The top neighborhoods for romance, convenience, and local flair Why booking directly (and early) with boutique hotels pays off Unique Paris experiences, from jazz clubs to river cruises, that won’t drain your wallet Street-smart tips for avoiding scams and making the most of your time in the city Questions for the Adventurer’s Clubhouse What’s your favorite “hidden gem” hotel or neighborhood in Paris? Would you rather spend your Paris budget on a luxury hotel room or unforgettable experiences? Have you ever booked a place that looked amazing online but turned out to be… less so? Our gear of the day helps you adventure better using ONLY items curated by us and our guests: https://stackingadventures.com/gotd Help us by telling YOUR Paris stories: https://stackingadventures.com/MyStory

Ever daydreamed about stepping straight into the world of your favorite movie, book, or TV show? In this episode of Stacking Adventures, Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy set off on a whirlwind journey through the destinations that captured their hearts—both the ones they’ve visited and the ones still waiting on their bucket lists. Some were inspired by Hollywood magic, others by literary pages, gaming consoles, or catchy song lyrics. From wandering the romantic streets of Paris to tracing the history-soaked corners of Romania, chasing the mythical in a werewolf-haunted Bavarian forest, and imagining a stroll through the high-tech wonderland of Wakanda, this conversation is a globe-spanning mix of personal stories, live audience memories, and unexpected detours. You’ll hear how certain places leave a permanent mark—whether it’s sipping coffee in a real-life movie location or standing in a spot you’ve only seen in 8-bit graphics. And because every good adventure needs a twist, Crystal and Joe also share some surprising destinations they never expected to love, shout out audience favorites from around the world, and reveal how you could score a premium Adventures by Disney backpack by joining the Stacking Adventures Clubhouse. If you’ve ever found yourself adding “just one more” dream trip to your list after watching a movie or reading a book, you’ll feel right at home here. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: How movies, books, video games, and music can inspire real-world adventures The places Crystal and Joe have actually visited because of pop culture influences Unexpected travel experiences that changed their perspective Audience favorites—from Moroccan markets to Michigan’s Mystery Spot How to join the Stacking Adventures Clubhouse for exclusive perks and giveaways Questions for Fellow Adventurers: Which movie, book, or song has most inspired your travel bucket list? Have you ever visited a place just because it was in a TV show or film? Was it worth it? If you could live inside one fictional location for a week, where would it be? Share your answers on our call in line: StackingAdventures.com/MyStory Want to win a backpack? Join our Facebook group! On Facebook search for "Stacking Adventures Clubhouse" and you'll be automatically entered to win a sweet Adventures by Disney backpack.

Dreaming of your next big hiking challenge? In this episode, Crystal and Joe welcome Darrow Kirkpatrick — retired financial writer, seasoned adventurer, and author of Two Sticks, One Path. Darrow takes us along his trek across the Colorado Trail, sharing lessons that will inspire your own outdoor adventures, whether you’re planning a weekend hike or a multi-week expedition. From practical packing strategies to mindset shifts that keep you moving when the trail gets tough, you’ll walk away with tools to make your next hike safer, lighter, and more rewarding. We’ll explore how to prepare your body for long-distance trekking, choose gear that works for you (not against you), and stay safe when wildlife or weather take an unexpected turn. You’ll also hear the story behind a near-moose encounter, what the Colorado Trail taught Darrow about resilience, and how his “Gear of the Day” pick could change the way you pack forever. In this episode, you’ll discover: How to choose lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort or safety Training strategies that prepare you for elevation, distance, and endurance challenges Smart ways to handle unpredictable weather in the mountains Essential gear for water purification on the trail How to navigate wildlife encounters with confidence and caution Packing tips that help you avoid overloading while still being ready for anything Why mental preparation is just as important as physical conditioning for long hikes An “adventure-approved” Gear of the Day you might not see coming You'll find Darrow's photos and more at TrailMemoir.com (specifically THIS LINK) You'll find Darrow's new Gear of the Day picks at StackingAdventures.com/GearOfTheDay Ready to tell YOUR hiking story? You'll have five minutes AND appear in a future episode at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory Join our growing Facebook community of nearly FIFTY adventurers! We're sharing tips, photos, and more! Here's the link.

What do you get when you mix Vatican politics, mafia secrets, fine art forgery, and a dash of gelato? Award-winning mystery author Michael Balter joins us to share the real-life adventures that inspired his novel The Vatican Deal—a fast-paced thriller set against the backdrop of Rome, Florence, Naples, and Capri. But this episode isn’t just about fiction. Michael brings stories from his own globetrotting life: negotiating with the Vatican, almost buying a centuries-old foundry, and getting swept up in the magic (and madness) of Italy’s cities. From sipping espresso in ancient coffee shops to exploring iconic landmarks like the Coliseum and Vatican, he gives us both the postcard highlights and the behind-the-scenes grit that most tourists miss. Also in this episode: Why renting a boat in Capri should absolutely be on your bucket list The secret to tackling Italy’s world-famous museums without hitting a wall of overwhelm What to expect on Italy’s blazing-fast bullet trains Tech tips for navigating Italian culture (and why your smartphone might betray you) Gear of the Day: a must-have for your next trip through Italy’s cobblestone streets Whether you’re planning a trip, dreaming of one, or just love a good mystery set in a killer location, this episode delivers wanderlust with a side of whodunit.  

What happens when you mix millennia-old ruins, sun-drenched islands, and gourmet Greek cuisine? You get an unforgettable adventure—plus a podcast episode to match. In this wanderlust-packed episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond are joined by a very special guest: Joe’s wife, Cheryl Saul-Sehy, a seasoned traveler with a keen eye for luxury, efficiency, and surprise gems you won't find on most itineraries. Together, they unpack their latest trip to Greece, spanning the historic streets of Athens, the Instagram-ready cliffs of Santorini, and the charming hospitality of Crete and Naxos. Here’s What You’ll Explore: The Ancient Meets the Modern in Athens: From the Acropolis to upscale walking food tours, Joe, Crystal, and Cheryl break down why the cradle of Western civilization should still be on your bucket list (and your stomach’s). Santorini’s Stunning... and Packed: Is the sunset as romantic as it looks in the brochures? Yes. But also: elbows. Lots of elbows. Get tips on dodging crowds and soaking in the caldera views like a pro. Crete’s Hidden Depths: Explore more than beaches—like the poignant beauty of a preserved leper colony and the stunning Palace of Knossos. Plus, Cheryl’s unexpected emotional moment at a nearly forgotten site. Naxos, the Culinary Underdog: Spoiler alert—this island may have stolen the show. Learn why renting a car here is a must, how to find secret beaches, and where to eat your weight in feta. Logistical Gold: From scoring flights with credit card points to the perks (and limitations) of Disney-guided tours, this episode dishes out real traveler talk for making your next trip smoother—and more rewarding. Gear of the Day: Cheryl reveals the MVP of the trip, a simple travel essential that made all the difference in staying organized and secure abroad. You’ll want to add this to your packing list, stat. Why This Episode Belongs in Your Carry-On This isn’t your average travel chat. It’s a blend of heartfelt storytelling, practical wisdom, and enough dreamy island imagery to get your suitcase halfway packed. Whether you're planning your first Greek adventure or reliving your last one, you’ll walk away with ideas, laughs, and a serious craving for baklava. Have a favorite Greek island, hidden taverna, or ferry tip? Share it with the Stacking Adventures community—we’re always hungry for more (especially if it involves olives or octopus). 

Ready to take the scenic route? In this episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond fire up the engine of nostalgia and hit the metaphorical road to celebrate America’s quirkiest, kitschiest, and most unforgettable roadside attractions. Whether it's a giant ball of twine, a hidden sea beneath Tennessee, or that magical place you stumbled upon because someone in the car had to stop for a soda, this episode is a love letter to those wonderfully weird detours that turn a road trip into a full-blown adventure. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Crystal’s Childhood Throwbacks: Hear about Robot World, water parks, and the family fun that turned Wisconsin Dells into the Disney World of the Midwest. Joe’s Deep Dive into the Earth: He recounts his visit to The Lost Sea, a wild underground lake you can boat across—because Tennessee doesn’t do boring. Listener Favorites: From Arkansas’ Monster Mart to Michigan’s Mystery Spot, Adventurers share their own must-see roadside wonders. Big shoutout to the community for their top-tier taste in roadside oddities! Is Buc-ee’s a National Treasure?: We make the case for the beaver-branded stop that’s part rest area, part theme park, and 100% essential for any road trip snack run. Gear of the Day: Travel might get weird, but today's gear of the day shouldn't. What is it? Crystal will guess...and so will you! Frugal Fun Along the Way: Budget-friendly stops, photo-worthy moments, and creative roadside memories that cost next to nothing but feel like a million bucks. Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen Whether you're planning your next great escape or just need a reason to crack open your dusty atlas, this episode reminds us that the journey is the destination. It’s a celebration of campy, curious, unforgettable Americana—from googly-eyed statues to underground boat rides and roadside beef jerky you maybe shouldn’t trust (but do anyway). So buckle up, Adventurer. It’s time to rediscover the joy of pulling over on purpose.

Planning your first visit to Chicago? Don’t just snap a selfie at The Bean and call it a day—let Stacking Adventures hosts Crystal Hammond and Joe Saul-Sehy be your insider guides to one of America's most vibrant, layered, and delicious cities. In this jam-packed episode, Crystal and Joe serve up their personal Top 5 experiences every first-time visitor to the Windy City has to try—plus a few lesser-known gems that even longtime locals might have missed. Think towering views from the not-Sears-anymore Tower, eye-opening museum visits, and—of course—deep-dish pizza debates that could make or break a friendship. What You’ll Discover on This Chicago Adventure: 🎷 How to jazz up your nights: Chicago’s music scene is more than history—it’s still swinging. 🏛️ Museums worth the trip (and the ticket price): From science to surrealism, Crystal and Joe spotlight their go-to cultural stops. 🚢 Architecture on the water: Why skipping the Chicago River architectural tour is basically a rookie mistake. 🍕 The great pizza throwdown: Who serves the best deep-dish in town? Expect strong opinions. 🛍️ Mag Mile magic: Exploring iconic shopping, dining, and photo ops without blowing your budget. ✍️ Gear of the Day: The one travel item that helps you remember the trip (and not just through receipts in your coat pocket). Plus, they share some of Chicago’s lesser-hyped treasures—from relaxing beaches to hidden eats and moments of Midwestern charm you won’t find in a guidebook. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or mapping out a longer adventure, this episode will leave you with a full Chicago to-do list, a hunger for hot dogs (with everything on it), and maybe even a new jazz playlist. Looking for our cool, tested travel gear (including our NEW gear of the day pick)? Head to StackingAdventures.com/GoTD

Dreaming of the ultimate Disney World vacation—but not the sky-high price tag? This week on Stacking Adventures, we sit down with Kevin Payne from Family Money Adventure to help you create maximum magic without maxing out your wallet. Kevin brings the goods: How to make the most of Genie+ without losing your mind (or your place in line)   The best ways to dodge long waits and still hit all your must-do rides   Pro tips for navigating the parks with kids and keeping your budget intact From culinary gems hidden across all four parks to smart strategies for picking your Disney digs, Kevin shows you how to plan a stress-free, crowd-savvy, wallet-respecting trip. You'll also get the scoop on using apps to time your day right, gear that makes schlepping through the parks a little less sweaty, and why certain festivals or attractions might be worth planning your trip around. We also explore: The ride strategy you didn’t know you needed   Where to find some of Disney’s best food (hint: it’s not always where the lines are)   Whether staying off-property is a budget win or a logistical headache   Tips for handling Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and the Magic Kingdom like a pro Whether you’re a first-timer or practically have Mickey on speed dial, this episode is your ticket to fewer lines, better meals, and way more magic per dollar. You'll find Kevin's awesome gear of the day (wait until you hear what it is!) at StackingAdventures.com/GOTD Send us YOUR Walt Disney World story at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory  

Ever wonder how to mix castles, kilts, and a couple of sheep with your golf game? In this episode of Stacking Adventures, Doug takes us along for his journey through Scotland—complete with scenic views, unpredictable weather, questionable driving skills, and plenty of old-world charm. From teeing off next to livestock to dodging crowds at iconic tourist spots, Doug shares how to blend thoughtful planning with room for spontaneity. You’ll hear about his golf adventures on windswept courses, discover why the sheep in Scotland may be tougher than some caddies, and get tips for navigating rental cars that assume you already know how to drive stick on the wrong side of the road. We also cover: Why Google Flights paired with a good ol’ notebook might be your best travel-planning combo. When to trust the guidebook… and when to trust your gut. What tourist attractions are worth your time—and which ones might leave you saying, “That’s it?” A behind-the-scenes look at lodging, road-tripping, and eating your way through the Highlands. A father-son bonding moment you’ll want to bottle. How to find Scotch that’s smoother than your backswing. Whether you’re planning your own Scottish getaway or just here for the ride, this episode is packed with real travel insights, a few cautionary tales, and inspiration for your next adventure.  

Ready to time-travel without the flux capacitor? In this nostalgia-packed episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond hit the open road—metaphorically speaking—to explore some of America’s most iconic roadside landmarks, unforgettable signage, and quirky attractions that make every road trip an adventure worth taking. Joining them is Americana enthusiast and Instagram-fueled author Rolando Pujol, who’s turned his childhood fascination with vintage neon and roadside kitsch into a full-fledged love letter to U.S. travel history. From giant peaches to lobsters as big as your car, from architectural oddities to places that scream "you can’t get this experience on Zoom," this episode is a celebration of the beautifully weird, wildly nostalgic, and unmistakably American. What You'll Explore Along the Way Road Signs that Raised Us: From Chicago’s White Sox signage to the Breezewood rest stop, Joe and Crystal reminisce about the places burned into our memory through pure roadside repetition. Rolando’s Retro Obsession: Discover how childhood drives through Sleepy Hollow turned into an Instagram account, which turned into a book deal. If you've ever pulled over to snap a photo of a fiberglass dinosaur, you'll feel seen. Where Quirky Meets Culinary: McDonald’s golden arches take a starring role—not just for fries but for its ever-evolving architecture. Plus, hear about Wild Blueberry Land in Maine, an oversized burrito haven in Arizona, and the cult-worthy Boll Weevil eatery. Signs of the Times: Learn why neon signs, repurposed buildings, and goofy roadside sculptures tell us more about a town than any chamber of commerce brochure ever could. The Enchanted Highway and Route 66: What happens when you mix art, open roads, and a passion for preservation? You get destinations that belong on every Adventurer's bucket list. Why This Episode Hits the Road (and Your Feels) Beyond the entertainment value (and serious Instagram inspo), this episode celebrates how road trips connect us to history, creativity, and identity—one vintage sign or giant lobster at a time. You’ll laugh, you’ll map your next trip, and you might even dig out that old road atlas. Got your own favorite roadside gem? Share it with the Adventurer community! Your quirky dive bar, haunting ghost town, or 20-foot gnome might just make someone else’s travel dreams come true. Here's how to tell your story: StackingAdventures.com/MyStory. You'll have five whole minutes to share YOUR roadside attraction adventure!

Think theme parks are just for kids? Think again. We heard people who are VERY MUCH adults sharing their stories today...as we asked YOU for your theme park tales. On this episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond head to the gates of Cedar Point, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Holiday World, and beyond to relive the thrills, spills, and surprisingly refined etiquette of amusement park life. From world-class coasters to pro tips on navigating crowds (and even riding solo!), this one’s your summer soundtrack for theme park success. Adventurers Randy and Nikki call in with nostalgic favorites—including Indiana’s under-the-radar Holiday World, home of the holy grail: free parking, drinks, sunscreen, and splashy water coasters. You’ll hear why this park might just beat the big boys on value and fun. Joe and Crystal also debate which parks cater more to grown-up thrill seekers, unpack listener horror stories and etiquette fails, and reveal a travel MVP: a humble sweat towel that moonlights as a scarf, napkin, and workout essential. Plus, are solo trips to Disneyland underrated? Spoiler: Yes. You’ll hear why going it alone can be a magic trick for skipping lines, recharging your social battery, and doing the park your way. In this episode: The adult-friendly charm of Cedar Point vs. Busch Gardens Hidden gems like Holiday World (hello, free sunscreen!) Theme park etiquette that keeps the magic alive The thrill—and peace—of a solo Disneyland day Memories of the Gatekeeper, Magnum, and the dearly departed Witch’s Wheel Versatile travel gear you didn’t know you needed A call for your best stories from Belize and cruise adventures Whether you’re a coaster connoisseur or just plotting your next getaway, this episode is packed with travel tales, practical tips, and all the community spirit Adventurers love.  

Think cruises are just buffets and bingo? Think again. In this episode, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond hoist the anchor on all your cruising questions with travel agent Donna Pelletier (we call her the cruise director!)—who's seen it all from the Lido Deck to the lifeboats. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or still Googling “Do cruise ships have brakes?”, we’ve got you covered. 🛳️ Donna walks us through choosing the right cruise line and ship size (spoiler: not all floating cities are created equal). 🎟️ Learn the tricks to booking like a pro, from early bird perks to when upgrades are actually worth it. 🍹 We talk gratuities, drink packages, and what “all-inclusive” really means once you’re onboard. 🧳 Never lose your luggage again—thanks to packing strategies and must-have travel tech like AirTags. 🚢 Plus, tips on motion sickness, trip insurance, and excursions that don’t feel like cattle drives. From insider tips to hilarious missteps (ours, mostly), this episode is your passport to smarter, smoother cruising.  

What happens when your brother calls and says, “Want to meet me in Japan?” If you’re Adventurer Cosette, you don’t think twice. In this episode, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond sit down with Cosette to unpack a spontaneous, unforgettable journey that crisscrossed South Korea and Japan. From wandering Seoul’s vibrant night markets and exploring the DMZ, to immersing herself in the peaceful reflection of Hiroshima and hiking snowy trails to spy on wild snow monkeys, Cosette’s story is packed with cultural depth, scenic beauty, and a little chaos (including a rough flight home!). Along the way, she dressed up for Ninja class, tackled Japan’s legendary Nine Bath Challenge in Shibu Onsen, and uncovered hidden gems across Kyoto and Kanazawa. If you’ve ever dreamed of diving into a new country on short notice, this episode is for you. The crew also shares practical travel hacks—like how to find last-minute flight deals, why power banks are non-negotiable, and what you should really expect from Mount Fuji. Highlights include: What it’s like to travel internationally on a whim How Korean and Japanese culture differ—and surprise you Packing tips and tech gear that saved the day Memorable stops: Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Kyoto’s Bamboo Forest, and Tokyo’s massive crowds Bonus challenge: Did Cosette complete all nine hot spring baths? Whether you’re planning your first overseas trip or just dreaming of adventure from your couch, this episode reminds you: the best stories happen when you say “yes.”

Ever dream of ditching your deadlines for a hammock in Belize? Cris did just that—and she’s not looking back. In this episode, we follow digital nomad and slow travel pro Cris, who’s been globe-hopping since 2018 and swears by one golden rule: travel slower, live deeper. Her favorite spot to soak it all in? Belize. And after this episode, it might be yours too. From Placencia Village’s laid-back charm to underground river caves and grilled lobster tail under the stars, Cris walks us through how to make the most of Belize — not just as a tourist, but as someone who belongs. Discovering Belize and the Art of Slow Travel What’s inside this episode: 🐢 Why slow travel might be your best travel hack (and how Cris made the leap) 🏝️ Hidden-gem vibes in Placencia Village — perfect if you love warm beaches and even warmer neighbors 👫 Building real community with locals and expats, plus how Rotary International plays a part 🌿 Wild adventures like cave tubing and the legendary ATM Cave (archaeology meets adrenaline) 🦞 The scoop on lobster season, local cuisine, and how to eat like a Belizean beach pro 🧳 Game-changing travel gear picks: Cris’s packable coffee dripper and “never-leave-home-without-it” metal straw 💬 Real talk on cost of living, safety, language, and cultural do’s and don’ts 🏨 Boutique stays in Hopkins and why Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn is more than just a name drop 🎒 Love exploring off the beaten path? Subscribe, share this episode with your travel crew, and check your passport. Belize might be calling — just don't forget your snorkel or that collapsible coffee contraption.