In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer takes us on a captivating journey through Malta, the independent island nation nestled between Sicily and North Africa. With a history stretching back over 5,000 years, Malta is a treasure trove of cultural influences, architectural marvels, and remarkable resilience.

Explore the breathtaking St. John’s Cathedral in Valletta—with its stunning Baroque design and an iconic Caravaggio painting—along with the island’s fortified structures built by the Knights of St. John. Rose digs into Malta’s pivotal role during World War II, from the extensive bombing campaigns to the underground shelters that protected its people.

Hear about the Arabic roots of the Maltese language, the ancient texts preserved in the National Library of Malta (some dating to 1474), and the island’s fascinating Neolithic history. Rose also highlights the vibrant lifestyle of Valletta, its UNESCO World Heritage designation, and the enduring spirit of the Maltese people.

Whether you're a history buff, culture seeker, or curious traveler, this episode offers a rich glimpse into what makes Malta a must-visit Mediterranean destination.

🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/

🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/

📲 Also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station" and "Way Back When" Podcast Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of "Quiltripping Travel with Rose" on Big Blend Radio!

Travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her unforgettable experience celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary aboard the Magna Carta barge with European Waterways. This luxurious barge cruise along England’s historic Thames River blends elegance, culture, and centuries of history — from Oxford to Hampton Court.

Along the way, Rose and her fellow travelers explored iconic and historic sites such as Christ Church College in Oxford, Cliveden House, Dorney Court, Windsor Castle, Runnymede, and Hampton Court Palace. The conversation delves into the preservation of historic barges, the exceptional culinary experiences onboard, and the natural beauty that defines the Thames — from swans gliding by to rainbows after the rain. Rose also shares insights into filming locations tied to British television and film and teases her next adventure cruising the Mediterranean.

🌐 Read Rose's article about her Thames River barge cruise: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/celebrating-our-40th-anniversary-with-a-luxury-english-barge-cruise/ 🔗 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/

📲 This episode is also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, and Way Back When Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quiltripping Travel with Rose" Podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer takes you on a luxurious journey aboard the Canyon Spirit train. This unique experience, a rebranding of the Rocky Mountaineer for its U.S. routes, offers a chance to explore the American West in style.

Rose shares insights on the stunning landscapes, the attentive service, and the gourmet food that make the Canyon Spirit more than just a mode of transportation. It's a trip that reflects on the historical significance of rail travel in shaping American towns and economies, while focusing on the joy of sightseeing.

"This is luxury sightseeing travel," says Rose, "It's about enjoying the scenery."

Read more about the Canyon Spirit from Rose: - A Southwest National Park Adventure by Train on the Canyon Spirit: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/a-southwest-national-park-adventure-by-train-on-the-canyon-spirit/

Detailed Canyon Spirit Review: https://quiltripping.com/detailed-canyon-spirit-review/

Explore more from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/

Subscribe to the Podcast: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Parks & Travel" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork