Travels with Darley

Planning a cruise out of Port Canaveral? This Travels with Darley podcast episode is your essential guide to making the most of your pre- or post-cruise time in Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. Just 45 minutes from Orlando, this affordable, space-inspired beach destination is not only convenient for cruisers boarding ships like Carnival Mardi Gras and RCL Utopia of the Seas, but it’s also full of opportunities to relax and explore. From family-friendly resorts and surf shops to tiki bars and rocket launch viewing spots, Darley Newman shares her weekend experience discovering where to eat, stay, and play before setting sail. Darley rides the Cocoa Beach Express shuttle from Orlando International Airport to the Radisson Resort at the Port, meeting fellow travelers like Lisa and Michael Carso, who’ve taken 35 cruises, and newcomers like Denise and Terry Cochran from Knoxville. She explores shuttle options, hotel packages, and accessibility services. She chats with locals like Jonathan Bloomfield, a top-rated bellman who knows the ins and outs of parking, luggage, and hospitality. Darley also connects with solo female traveler Caretta Campbell of New York and a multigenerational group from Missouri to hear real cruiser tips—what to pack, where to eat (like Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar), and how to make the most of an overnight stay. Whether you’re headed out on your first cruise or your fifteenth, this episode offers insider insights and real traveler stories to help you navigate Port Canaveral and your Cocoa Beach vacation with confidence. From breakfast buffets and bike rides to beach days and sunset cocktails at Fishlips, it’s a relaxed yet informative listen to help you launch your next voyage smoothly—and with style.

Head to Florida’s Space Coast to explore Downtown Cocoa Beach and beyond—where surf culture, space launches, and laid-back local vibes collide. Cocoa Beach is not only a top spot for rocket launch viewing and beachside relaxation, but also an ideal destination for affordable, family-friendly travel, including pre- and post-cruise getaways out of nearby Port Canaveral. Darley meets up with longtime local Jack Kirshenbaum to walk downtown North Orlando Avenue, checking out art galleries, wine bars, and favorite local hangouts like Café Surfinista, where surfboards line the walls and smoothies fuel conversations about Cocoa Beach’s past, present, and future. Listeners also go behind the scenes at Cocoa Beach Surf Company, a women-led retail and hospitality complex across from the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop. Darley chats with Sandi McBride, Janet Antoon, Megan Campbell, and Amy Jones, who share insights on surf fashion, favorite beach activities, and space-themed gear that celebrates the area’s NASA connection. From space-inspired t-shirts to bikinis, shopping turns into a local experience—and wraps up with peach margaritas and BLT pizza in the on-site restaurant. With special events like Thunder on Cocoa Beach, world-class surfing at First Peak and Monster Hole, and welcoming locals ready to offer tips, Cocoa Beach is a destination where you can stroll downtown, cycle to the shore, or watch rockets launch into the sky. Whether you're planning a weekend beach trip or a stopover before a cruise, this episode offers authentic travel ideas for making the most of your Cocoa Beach vacation.

Set sail for Florida’s Space Coast with this on-location adventure podcast through Cocoa Beach! From rocket launches and tiki bars to mermaids and mahi tacos, Darley Newman explores the best pre- and post-cruise experiences with locals and fellow travelers.In this first episode of Travels with Darley: Cocoa Beach Escapes podcast series, journey to Florida’s legendary Space Coast for an unforgettable family-friendly adventure—perfect for a pre- or post-cruise getaway. Just a short drive from Orlando and home to Port Canaveral, Cocoa Beach offers the perfect blend of surf, space, and sunshine without breaking the bank. Host Darley Newman helps you to experience what makes Cocoa Beach so unique, from rocket launches and sandy shores to colorful art made from ocean plastics. You’ll hear from local changemakers like Daniel Todd, owner of 4th Street Fillin Station—a gastropub housed in a vintage gas station with a vast craft beer selection and menu catering to families and travelers with food sensitivities—and artist Cory Redwine, who transforms coastal trash into meaningful art. Darley also explores top family-friendly accommodations like the Radisson Resort at the Port and the retro-chic Beachside Hotel & Suites with Suzanne McCarthy, where mermaids make poolside appearances and lazy rivers entertain all ages. Whether you're looking to spot a Falcon 9 rocket launch at Jetty Park, enjoy eco-adventures on Merritt Island, or relax with a frosty drink steps from the beach, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring stories from locals and fellow travelers. Discover how to cruise and play—without overspending—on Florida’s most accessible beach.

Join host Darley Newman for an inside look at the growing world of river cruising. From her scenic journeys through Europe with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises to expert insights from Uniworld's CEO Ellen Bettridge and Chief Marketing Officer Shrinett Fleet, this episode covers everything from top destinations and packing tips to the rise of women-only and multigenerational travel. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or new to the idea, get ready for a relaxing, immersive way to explore the world—one river at a time. Learn about Uniworld’s first-ever women’s only cruise, exploring Burgundy and Provence and departing August 24th, 2025. Special guests include Rachel Dratch from SNL and Uniworld CEO Ellen Bettridge. Learn more about the August 24th, 2025 women-only cruise at darley.link/uniworld.

Learn about Uniworld’s first-ever women’s only cruise, exploring Burgundy and Provence, departing August 24th. Designed by women, this unique cruise will have special guests, including comedian Rachel Dratch and Uniworld’s CEO Ellen Bettridge. Hear from Ellen Bettridge and Uniworld Chief Marketing Officer Shirnett Fleet about what makes this cruise an exquisite experience—from lavender weaving and burlesque workshops to wine tastings, candlelit concerts, and a comedy show and Q&A with Rachel Dratch from SNL. This episode explores how women travelers are shaping the future of tourism and how river cruising is evolving to meet their needs—with luxury, connection, and fun at the heart of it all.Learn more about the August 24th, 2025 women-only cruise sailing through southern France at darley.link/uniworld.

Take a Québec road trip along the historic Chemin du Roy or King’s Road with travel expert Darley Newman. Tune in to the third episode of this three-part road trip as we travel from Montreal to Québec City, making scenic stops along the way to uncover the rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and mouthwatering food. Discover roadside stops, like Fromagerie Alexis de Portneuf, Magasin Général Paré and Ti Oui Snack Bar where you can try goat cheese and poutine and restock on road trip supplies. Discover Aventure Inukshuk, located at Duchesnay Resort, where travelers can take on dog sledding adventures in the winter and observe wildlife during the warmer months in a Canadian national park around Saint-Joseph Lake. Get out on the trails at Vallée Bras-du-Nord, mountain biking through a lush forest to stunning waterfall views at Delaney Falls and grabbing a local beer at nearby microbrewery, Le Roquemont. At Station Touristique Duchesnay, stay at an eco-resort that offers activities like paddleboarding on calm lake waters. Get ready for a travel journey filled with breathtaking nature, local culture, and tasty hidden gems of Québec.

Road trip from Montreal to Québec City along the historic Chemin du Roy or King’s Road with travel expert Darley Newman. Tune in to the second episode of this three-part road trip as we go in depth with the locals and explore eco-friendly escapes and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Dive into a historic walking tour of Trois-Rivières with tour guide Jean-Philippe Marcotte and get the scoop on where to eat pizza and poutine. Discover Distillerie Mariana, where you can savor gin crafted from local products in a repurposed building that’s over a hundred years old. Soar above the vibrant fall foliage of La Mauricie National Park in a seaplane with Hydravion Aventure. Buckle up for an unforgettable journey through Québec’s rich history, local flavors, and stunning nature.

Take a road trip in Québec between Montreal and Québec City along the historic Chemin du Roy or King’s Road. The King's Road stretches over 170 miles along the St. Lawrence River and passes historic cities, quaint villages, national parks and farms. Grab a drink with entrepreneur Florence Mailhot at Distillerie Grand Dérangement, a sustainable family-run distillery sharing local history of the Acadians and organic products in Saint-Jacques.Forage for wild mushrooms on a gourmet hike with Marie-Renee Buczkowski at Marcheur des Bois in Saint-Côme. Learn about unique places to stay, from cozy chalets at Les Boisés de la Rivière Noire to Le Baluchon Eco Resort, where you can explore breathtaking nature and make furry friends. Le Baluchon is like a summer camp for adults and families. Patricia Brouard introduces Darley Newman to archery, hikes to waterfalls and tasty poutine.Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or road trip enthusiast, this thrilling road trip adventure will give you ideas for your next vacation! Dive into the first episode of this three-part series, exploring Canadian sustainability, history, and hidden gems.

Take an immersive journey through the Guadeloupe Islands in this special Black History Month episode. Join host Darley Newman and local guides on an exciting island-hopping adventure, discovering the rich culture, delectable cuisine, hidden travel gems, and captivating history of this French Caribbean destination. Venture to the island of Les Saintes to explore the bustling markets of Terre-de-Haut. Enjoy views at Fort Napoléon and unwind on the pristine white sands of Pompierre Beach. Savor fresh seafood and hear about restaurants you might like to experience like Au Bon Vivre.On the island of Basse-Terre, indulge in a wellness escape at Spa Tendacayou, where Darley shares what it’s like to try a unique fish pedicure. Off the coast, go snorkeling and scuba diving at La Reserve Cousteau, a protected area with biological diversity and a vibrant marine ecosystem.Get expert tips on where to stay and the best times to visit the Guadeloupe Islands from Audrey Yacou, PR and Marketing Officer for the Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Board. Learn about the upcoming Saint-Georges International Music Festival, which showcases performances honoring the legacy of Saint-Georges and celebrating diversity in classical music. Pack your swimsuit and love of learning on an adventure in the French Caribbean!

Discover the hidden gems of the Guadeloupe Islands, a French Caribbean paradise brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty. Join travel expert Darley Newman and local guides on an island-hopping adventure. Stroll through the lively markets on the island of Grand-Terre in the city of Pointe-à-Pitre, savoring fresh tropical fruits and the vibrant sounds of Gwo-Ka music—an Afro-Caribbean musical genre rooted in African, European, and Caribbean traditions. Dive into the history of the islands at the Memorial ACTe Museum, dedicated to the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.On Basse-Terre, walk in the footsteps of freedom fighters at Fort Delgrès, named in honor of Louis Delgrès, who heroically resisted the re-establishment of slavery in 1802. Savor local flavors with a taste of Guadeloupe’s iconic rum and indulge in the bokit, a beloved sandwich that captures the essence of island life.Next, get active with a hike through the lush landscapes of Guadeloupe National Park and the towering La Soufrière Volcano. Hear from Audrey Yacou from the Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Board about annual events you might like to experience like Carnival, a celebration that showcases the rich cultural diversity of the islands. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this episode offers practical tips on the best hotels and travel options, including convenient year-round direct flights from Miami. Don’t miss this immersive guide to the ultimate Guadeloupe getaway!

Seeking surprising adventures on your Ellijay, Georgia getaway? Taste delicious local flavors at The Pink Pig and learn the history behind Brunswick Stew from female restauranteur Sam Callahan. Discover unique accommodations like the Lodge at Walnut Grove, where you can go hiking, have farm fresh eggs, and unplug in nature. Go mountain biking and toast with a beer made onsite at Cartecay Bike Shop Brewery. Explore Expedition Bigfoot! The Sasquatch Museum to uncover the legend of the famous sasquatch. Dive in with Darley Newman for expert travel tips, stories, and adventure in the Apple Capital of Georgia.

Discover the Apple Capital of Georgia! Ellijay is a charming mountain town known for its heritage farms, hiking trails, breathtaking scenery and juicy apples. Join host Darley Newmas as dives into the Apple Capital’s agricultural roots and commitment to sustainability by touring multi-generational family farms like Red Apple Barn and Penland Orchards & Farm Market. Taste Ellijay wines at Roo Mountain vineyards and find out why this area is so good for growing grapes. Taste apple liqueur with Caroline Porsiel at women-owned House of Applejay. Explore a farmstay where you can make furry friends with sheep and lambs at Cress Creeks Farm. Hear from local businesses making a difference in their communities in this Georgia Grown episode.

Looking for unique experiences for your Santa Fe vacation? Join host Darley Newman as she takes a flamenco class with La Emi and explores the Art Concierge Program and on-site apiary at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado. Dine with Darley and Chef Fernando Olea at James Beard Award winning restaurant Sazón, go horseback riding just outside of Santa Fe in Cerillos, a mining town turned movie set, with Broken Saddle Riding Company. Investigate the mystery behind a miraculous staircase at Loretto Chapel with Darley and Richard Lindsley. Hear from passionate locals bringing Santa Fe culture and history to the forefront in this exciting new episode filled with expert travel tips for your next Santa Fe adventure.

Explore the iconic Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest juried Native American art show in the world. Wander through bustling streets filled with extraordinary jewelry, pottery and paintings. Learn from Southwestern Association for Indian Arts Executive Director Jamie Schulze the stories behind the art and the over 1,000 artists from over 200 tribes who participate in this annual event. Join Darley Newman to dive into the best food, fashion, and local museums to add to your Santa Fe Indian Market itinerary, including where to find the best Indian tacos.Go behind the scenes at special events like Best of Show and the SWAIA Native Fashion Show, hearing from designers like Patricia Michaels, a former contestant on Bravo’s “Project Runway,” and past Governor of Pojoaque Pueblo, artist George Rivera. Hear from creatives like Del Curfman and Kathleen Wall about their inspiration, including their education at the Institute of American Indian Arts. Step inside the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts with Director Patsy Phillips and visit the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture to see a special fashion exhibition by Patricia Michaels. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned market-goer, this episode offers insider tips, artist spotlights, and a deeper appreciation for this cultural treasure in the heart of Santa Fe.

Ready to discover Detroit’s best kept secrets? Join expert traveler Darley Newman to step inside the art deco masterpiece, the “Cathedral of Finance,” at the Guardian Building. Explore nature trails and go birdwatching at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. Dine in a repurposed firehouse and bike along the scenic RiverWalk to shop for local goods at the historic Eastern Market. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, this episode offers a fresh perspective on Detroit’s unexpected mix of wildlife, architecture, and culture. Dive in for hidden gems and expert tips, stories, and a new appreciation for the Motor City.

Craving the best of Detroit’s vibrant food scene and rich culture? Join us for a delicious food tour through the Motor City! In this mouthwatering episode, travel to Dearborn to discover some of the best baklava in America, indulge in cheesy Detroit-style pizza with ties to the automotive industry at Buddy’s pizza, dine with a Top Chef contestant in Detroit’s West Village, and listen to live jazz at Cliff Bell’s, a Prohibition-Era speakeasy. Whether you're planning a trip or simply curious about Detroit’s culinary treasures, this episode will leave you hungry for more—offering insider experiences, unique flavors, and unforgettable experiences.

Not sure what to include in your Myrtle Beach itinerary? Dive into Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with local insider Darley Newman as she blends nostalgia with fresh finds. From exploring the serene maritime forest at Myrtle Beach State Park with Ranger Ann Wilson to indulging in southern charm at The Ellie Beach Resort, Darley highlights the best spots for nature, dining, and family fun. Celebrate birthdays in style at The Hangout, Broadway at the Beach's vibrant restaurant complete with dancing, cocktails, and a two-story slide. For more Myrtle Beach dining, indulge in sweet creations at The Dolly Lama and delicious oysters at 1229 Shine. Whether you're planning your next trip or just dreaming of the coast, this episode brings Myrtle Beach to life with stories, tips, and authentic local connections.

Discover how Myrtle Beach is paving the way for inclusive and accessible travel experiences. Darley Newman takes you through her hometown’s groundbreaking autism-friendly initiatives. She highlights sensory-friendly attractions, restaurants, and inclusive programs designed to make every visitor feel welcome, including interviewing Becky Large of the Autism Travel Club and Champion Autism Network about how the Grand Strand became known as a welcoming vacation destination. Join Darley as she dines with Chef Jamie Daskalis at Johnny D’s, explores the EdVenture Children’s Museum and Savannah’s Playground at Market Common, and mini golf at Red Dragon Cove Adventure Golf.

In this festive Myrtle Beach Home for the Holidays episode, get into the holiday spirit with a behind-the-scenes look at The Carolina Opry Christmas Special. Jordan Gilmore Watkins, daughter of founder Calvin Gilmore, shares the magic of the annual production, from its dazzling 30-foot tree to the show’s talented performers, including Dreamer the Horse and the All That! Clogging Group. Host Darley Newman also sits down with Chef Heidi Vukov of Hook & Barrel and Croissants Bistro & Bakery to explore her innovative, sustainable restaurant, popular for pre-theater dining. From dazzling performances to mouthwatering dishes, this episode is a perfect blend of Myrtle Beach holiday charm.

Experience the best of downtown Myrtle Beach, from classic boardwalk treasures to a modern brewery with TV host and travel expert Darley Newman in her hometown. Discover the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove on an insider’s tour with Michelle Plyler, complete with Sasquatch sightings. This iconic Myrtle Beach boardwalk institution is beloved by locals and travelers for its quirky souvenirs and retro history. Head to Grand Strand Brewing Company to taste Beach Easy beer, the official beer of Myrtle Beach. Learn from Clayton Burrous how new businesses are shaping the future of downtown. Travel like a Myrtle Beach local in this “Home for the Holidays” podcast with expert travel tips.