Big Blend Radio: Vacation Station

Is escorted travel for you? On this episode of Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station "Hey Wanna Go" Travel Show with travel advisor Cheryl Ogle, hear about the good, the bad, and the ugly about escorted travel. See her blog post that outlines it all here: https://heywannago.wordpress.com/2024/04/09/benefits-of-escorted-travel On Big Blend Radio every third Wednesday, Cheryl is a world traveler, accredited travel advisor, and owner of Hey Wanna Go that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river and ocean cruises. More: https://heywannago.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the Okavango Delta in Botswana to Zambia and Zimbabwe, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou" podcast highlights some of Linda's amazing adventures in Southern Africa. You can read her story about the Botsawana elephants in Linda's book, "Lost Angel Unleashed," and about her safari adventures on NABBW.org here: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/botswana-highlights-on-the-ultimate-safari/ Follow Linda's adventures at https://lostangeladventures.com/ and learn more about her books at http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show every 3rd Wednesday at High Noon PST, here on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm3Bmktgu8osUzx2VOF35dgO&feature=shared Photos featured are by Linda Ballou and Tom Schwab. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With National Park Week (April 20-28), Earth Day (April 22), Arbor Day (April 27), Junior Ranger Day (April 27), and Kids to Parks Day (May 18) coming up, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 3rd Tuesday "Go to Natchitoches" show is all the various parks, historic sites and trails, and events you can experience in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Featured guest is K. Nicole Connell, Communication Manager of Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, who talks about events and destinations such Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Melrose Plantation, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, El Camino Real de las Tejas National Historic Trail, the historic Jefferson Highway, Briarwood Nature Reserve, and Kisatchie National Forest. Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is the original French Colony and oldest settlement in Louisiana. Celebrating a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Creole cultures, this charming city is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area and Louisiana’s No Man’s Land. More about Natchitoches and its current events at https://natchitoches.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Go to Natchitoches" show here: http://tinyurl.com/yc8csn8b  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA we discover some of the hidden gems and forgotten stories of Michigan with Amy Piper, author of "Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure" (Reedy Press).  Amy Piper is a freelance travel writer, blogger, and photographer who specializes in luxury and multigenerational travel. She travels through the lens of a food lover and has been to 41 countries and 45 states around the world. A native Michigander, she is also the author of “100 Things to Do in Lansing Before You Die” (Reedy Press) and is published in the book "Midwest Road Trip Adventures." More at https://followthepiper.com/ Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) here: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's JO GOES EVERYWHERE! Podcast with travel writer and photographer Jo Clark, we hear all about beautiful and historic Georgetown, South Carolina. Named the Best Coastal Small Town by USA Today in 2018, Georgetown is rich in history, nature and outdoor adventures, good food, and friendly people. READ JO'S ARTICLES ABOUT GEORGETOWN:* RecipesTravelCulture.com: https://tinyurl.com/swpnvvfp * FoodieFlashpacker.com: https://tinyurl.com/ybedf5r5 * SheBuysTravel.com: https://tinyurl.com/y5ez47ef Jo Clark is a travel writer and photographer based on South Carolina’s Grand Strand. She has a thirst for knowledge, history, great food, and wine! Her Big Blend Radio podcast "Jo Goes Everywhere!" airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST. Follow the show on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yfkjm8sd  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

South Africa offers a unique blend of nature, culture, ocean, and unique thrill-seeking experiences. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA, travel journalist Bernie van der Linde shares why South Africa is known as "a world in one country," and discusses its diverse landscapes and experiences. Read her article that highlights some of her recommended must-dos when you visit the country: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/must-do-experiences-in-south-africa/ Bernie founded the travel blog https://travelbuddieslifestyle.com/ with her best friend and business partner, Petra, where they share their travel experiences of unique and luxurious destinations. Bernie’s love for exploring has taken her to many exotic locations around the world. Her passion for writing and travel has made her a trusted source of information and inspiration for the discerning traveller looking to explore the world in style. Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) at https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Shows with IFWTWA Here: https://shows.acast.com/big-blend-radio-ifwtwa  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the upcoming California Antique Farm Equipment Show (April 19-21, 2024) and next year's famous World Ag Expo (February 2025), to family-friendly attractions and activities, this episode of Big Blend Radio Celebrates Farming and Agriculture in Tulare, California. FEATURED GUESTS: - Donnette Silva Carter, CEO of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce. Visit: http://www.tularechamber.org/- Megan Lausten from the International Agri-Center. Visit: https://www.internationalagricenter.com/Tulare is a gateway city to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. The city thrives on agricultural, and is internationally known for the Annual World Ag Expo which is held at the International Agri-Center which also features unique event spaces, and the AgVentures Learning Center for Kids and Ag Museum. Tulare has a charming historic downtown district with a beautiful series of murals, and is also home to the Tulare Outlet Shopping Center, and Tulare Historic Museum.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Thursday “New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Association” Show features innkeeper Kathy Hiatt, who owns and runs the historic Bottger Mansion of Old Town with her husband Steve, plus assistant innkeeper Jake Dunlap.Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this romantic Bed & Breakfast is the perfect home base for an amazing variety of activities. Bottger Mansion features easy access to any area destination, comfortable accommodations, and modern amenities. From hot air ballooning and hiking, to wine tasting and sampling regional cuisine, visiting museums and gardens, and experiencing the arts and entertainment of the local cultures, as well as shopping for items unique to New Mexico, you’ll find there is never a shortage of things to do in Albuquerque. More: https://bottger.com/ Stay New Mexico True and Visit: https://www.nmbba.org/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's all about what to experiences on Whidbey and Camano Islands on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA. Featured guest is Inge Morascini who talks about the area's nature and outdoor adventures, farms and regional flavors, history and cultural arts, seasonal events, and unique lodging destinations. Located in the middle of Puget Sound, Whidbey and Camano Islands are an easy drive from Seattle. A great antidote for big city pressures, these rural islands feature wide-open beaches, scenic vistas, outdoor adventures, great art, fine dining, and more. See: https://whidbeycamanoislands.com/ For more about the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) visit https://www.ifwtwa.org/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In time to plan for National Park Week (April 20-28), Earth Day (April 22), Junior Park Ranger Day (April 27), and Kids to Parks Day (May 18), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast focuses on park and outdoor experiences in Tulare County. Hear about the region's giant sequoia trees, waterfalls, and wildflowers, along with picnics and cultural celebrations in beautiful community parks, preserves, gardens, and more.Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include Sintia Kawasaki-Yee - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, and Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia. Plan your visit with these websites mentioned in the podcast:- Sequoia Tourism Council: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ - Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks:* https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm * https://nps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/index.html?appid=9f33fa32af394a129b0b548429dced01 * https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/road-construction.htm  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Celebrate National Wildlife Week with this inaugural episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz, who shares her experiences at the annual Whooping Crane Festival in Port Aransas, Texas.Nestled between Mustang Island and the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, Port Aransas unfolds as a Texas Gulf Coast sanctuary of small-town charm and endless activities. The 18 miles of pristine beaches, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, and encounters with diverse wildlife create a haven where the Texas Coastal Bend barrier islands and estuaries play the leading roles. Dolphins gracefully navigate the waters, sea turtles find refuge, and migrating birds paint a kaleidoscope of nature’s beauty. Read Sharon's article about it all here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/discover-the-timeless-allure-of-port-aransas/ Plan your adventure in Port Aransas at https://www.portaransas.org/ Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1ALXeV1vR6H10EtkPvgDW5 Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/ or follow her on https://www.instagram.com/shar_kurtz/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Tuesday "Adventures in Asheville" Show focuses on unique art, garden, and community experiences. Featured Guests:- Steve & Karen Wilson - Owners and innkeepers of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/- DeWayne Barton - Founder of Hood Huggers International and Peace Gardens & Market, in the heart of West Asheville’s Burton Street Community, a historically African American neighborhood established in the early 1900’s. More: https://hoodhuggers.com/- Annie Katla Bennette - Co-owner of @artgardenavl an artist owned and operated Art Gallery & Plant Shop in Asheville's River Arts District. More: https://www.artgardenavl.com/Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/ycxwjkr7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio focuses on Pet Sitting and Pet Care options for Women Travelers.Featured guest is Angela Laws who is a veteran pet sitter and the community manager for TrustedHousesitters which is a global, pet-loving community on a mission to create a world where pets enjoy their owners’ vacations just as much as they do! Founded in 2010, TrustedHousesitters has connected thousands of pet owners and pet sitters worldwide through their mutual trust and love of animals. https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the upcoming Jefferson Highway Conference held in Alexandria, Louisiana from April 24-27, 2024. Also hear about the Sociability Run in Louisiana that will be held pre-conference from April 22-24, 2024.FEATURED GUESTS: - ROGER BELL, President of the Jefferson Highway Association. Info: https://jeffersonhighway.org/- ARLENE GOULD, Executive Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau: https://natchitoches.com/The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway is also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," that runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, Debbie shares her experience on an outrigger surfing canoe ride. These boats offer the original Hawaiian rollercoaster experience and Waikiki Beach is the prime spot for this activity. Read her story about it, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/catch-some-waves-on-an-outrigger-canoe-ride-at-waikiki-beach/Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/m6z7v6ms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, Debbie shares her experience with Secret Hawaii Tours while she was in Honolulu.Guide Lanai Tabura, grew up on the pineapple island of Lanai in a family of foodies. His parents and grandparents loved sharing food with friends and even complete strangers. “They were giving food tours before food tours were a thing,” explains Lanai. “It seemed natural that I would do the same, as food is my passion.” Lanai went on to build a thriving business revolving around food. Read Debbie's story here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/aloha-plate-hawaii-food-tour-in-honolulu/Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/m6z7v6ms  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, Debbie shares her experience at Kualoa Ranch near Honolulu, Hawaii, a picturesque destination on Oahu’s windward side. A Private Nature Reserve and working cattle ranch, the 4,000-acre property has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since the 1970s. Film aficionados might recognize parts of the ranch, as it is known as Hollywood’s “Hawaii’s Backlot,” due to the hundreds of movies and TV shows filmed here since the 1950s. Read Debbie's article about it all, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/real-hawaii-meets-hollywood-at-kualoa-ranch/ Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/m6z7v6ms  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In celebration of Women's History Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station "Hey Wanna Go" Travel Show with travel advisor Cheryl Ogle is all about Travel Hacks and Apps for Women Travelers. See her blog post that's loaded with suggestions, here: https://heywannago.wordpress.com/2024/03/11/travel-hacks-and-apps-for-women-and-men-too/ On Big Blend Radio every third Wednesday, Cheryl is a world traveler, accredited travel advisor, and owner of Hey Wanna Go that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river and ocean cruises. More: https://heywannago.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Fishing Tournaments and Motorcycle Runs to Music and Art & Crafts Festivals, Spring Picnics and Crawfish Boils, and more, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 3rd Tuesday Vacation Station "Go to Natchitoches" show is all about Spring Festivals and Family Fun in Louisiana's Oldest City! Featured guest is K. Nicole Connell, Communication Manager of Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau. Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is the original French Colony and oldest settlement in Louisiana. Celebrating a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Creole cultures, this charming city is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area and Louisiana’s No Man’s Land. More about Natchitoches at https://natchitoches.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Go to Natchitoches" show here: http://tinyurl.com/yc8csn8b  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone to Devils Tower National Monument and Mount Rushmore, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA features travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham, who shares some of her RV adventures through America's Western National Park Country, along with some great advice for those just getting started in RV travel.Susan Lanier-Graham is the publisher and founder of https://www.wanderwithwonder.com, an award-winning digital food, wine, and travel publication. She is also managing editor of North Peoria Lifestyle, and has authored more than 75 books and hundreds of magazine articles for a variety of print and online publications. Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) here: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.