In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, Lisa Evans shares highlights from her recent New Year’s Caribbean cruise, exploring the cultures, landscapes, and communities of Belize, Honduras, and Cozumel. From visiting ancient Mayan ruins and learning about traditional chocolate-making, to wildlife encounters and meaningful connections with local communities, this episode celebrates travel that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.

Lisa also reflects on the importance of sustainable tourism, how travel supports local economies, and the perspective gained from engaging authentically with the people and places visited. The conversation explores life aboard a modern cruise ship—including entertainment, amenities, and relaxation—while encouraging travelers to balance comfort with cultural curiosity and responsible travel choices.

🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by travel: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648

Destination Highlights & Excursions - Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum (Honduras): https://blueharbortropicalarboretum.com/ - Gumbalimba Park (Honduras): https://gumbalimbapark.com/ - Altun Ha Mayan Ruins (Belize): https://www.travelbelize.org/attraction/altun-ha/ - The Mayan Cacao Company (Roatán): https://www.themayancacaocompany.com/experience.php - San Gervasio Mayan Ruins (Cozumel): https://www.themayanruinswebsite.com/san-gervasio.html

🌐 Follow Lisa Evans: - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelsoothesthesoul - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisae_travel

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station," podcast channel. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Recorded on location in St. Augustine, Florida, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" explores the rich history, vibrant culture, and living heritage of America’s oldest continuously occupied city. Travel writer Terri Guthrie discusses St. Augustine’s Spanish colonial roots and iconic landmarks, including the Fountain of Youth and Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, both of which play a major role in understanding the city’s early military, cultural, and colonial history.

The conversation highlights St. Augustine’s strategic importance as a Spanish stronghold, the stories behind its massive stone fort overlooking Matanzas Bay, and how these sites connect to the city’s broader narrative of exploration, defense, and cultural exchange. The episode also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging indigenous history and preserving untold stories as the nation approaches America’s 250th anniversary.

Special guests Bob and Maria Alvarez, COO and CFO of the Historic Florida Militia, share how historical reenactment brings the past to life through immersive education and storytelling. They discuss their involvement in reenactments, their work on the PBS documentary America’s Untold Story, and why keeping history alive is essential for future generations. The discussion also explores the deep Spanish connections between St. Augustine and the Camino de Santiago, reinforcing the city’s global and historical significance.

Plan your visit to St. Augustine, Florida: https://www.floridashistoriccoast.com/

FOLLOW TERRI’S ADVENTURES - https://travelwithterri.net/ - https://www.instagram.com/travelwithterri/

LISTEN - New episodes air every other Tuesday – Listen: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ - As part of our America 250 programming, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” “Way Back When,” “Parks & Travel,” and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we welcome back Dave DeGolyer of Explore Steuben to explore the rich wine culture, fascinating history, and small-town charm of Steuben County in New York’s Finger Lakes region.

The conversation traces the evolution of winemaking in the Finger Lakes — from early table grape production in Hammondsport dating back to 1829 to today’s award-winning wineries that are earning national and international attention. Dave emphasizes the philosophy of “sip and savor,” encouraging travelers to slow down, engage with winemakers, and appreciate the stories, people, and sense of place behind every bottle.

Beyond wine, the episode highlights Steuben County’s notable historical legacy, including its connection to aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss, who helped shape American aviation from Hammondsport, and author Mark Twain, whose presence adds a literary thread to the region’s cultural story. These layers of history underscore why the Finger Lakes is not only a wine destination, but also a place where innovation, creativity, and community intersect.

Listeners will also discover how Steuben County offers scenic outdoor adventures, welcoming small towns, vibrant local cuisine, and meaningful human connection — making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking authenticity, reflection, and renewal.

🌐 Plan your Finger Lakes adventure with Explore Steuben: https://exploresteuben.com/

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

📰 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

This debut episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism.

The conversation explores the region’s unique blend of French Creole and Cajun influences, the region's hospitality and community, and the stories that shape this remarkable destination. From the historic Jefferson Highway and Indigenous heritage to outdoor adventures, wildlife, and renowned local cuisine—especially Avoyelles’ famous sweet potatoes—this episode captures what makes the parish so special.

The episode also touches on America 250 reflections, vibrant festivals, small-town charm, and what a perfect day in Avoyelles looks like—from kayaking scenic waterways to enjoying down-home dining and cultural attractions in a beautiful natural setting.

🌐 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com

🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) we explore the winter magic, rich history, and culinary heritage of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands with Eric Knopsnyder, Director of Public Relations & Community Outreach for GO Laurel Highlands.

Located just an hour from Pittsburgh and within a day’s drive of nearly a quarter of the U.S. population, the Laurel Highlands is a four-season destination known for its mountain landscapes, charming small towns, outdoor adventures, and deep cultural roots. Eric shares insights into the region’s winter sports scene, including four downhill ski areas, luxury experiences at Nemacolin, unique lodging options, and why skiing here often extends into March.

The conversation also dives into the Laurel Highlands’ role as the birthplace of American rye whiskey, its vibrant craft beverage scene, award-winning dining, and community-driven events like the Fire & Ice Festival and the Pour Tour passport program. From Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and wildlife conservation to road trips, history, and slow travel, this episode highlights why the Laurel Highlands offers far more than a typical winter getaway.

🌐 Plan your Laurel Highlands adventure: https://www.golaurelhighlands.com/

📰 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough explore Dubai, a dynamic destination where deep-rooted traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modern life.

From cultural diversity and expat life to sustainability initiatives, culinary experiences, and social customs, the conversation offers thoughtful insight into what it’s really like to experience Dubai beyond the headlines. Joelle and Ryan reflect on the importance of respect, responsible travel, and meaningful connections, sharing personal stories that highlight how travel opens doors to deeper understanding and global perspective.

📝 Read their featured article in the ALL-NEW Big Blend Radio "Wanderers Compass" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/#p=1

🌐 Follow Ryan & Joelle’s adventures: https://www.wandererscompass.com/

🎧 New episodes air every second Monday on Big Blend Radio. Listen to more episodes: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" podcast channel. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” Podcast, travel writer Jo Clark explores 10 haunted towns and spooky ghost tours across the United States, from historic battlefields and shadowy streets to legendary folklore and paranormal hotspots. Destinations include Gettysburg, Charleston, Louisiana, Washington, D.C., St. Augustine, and more—each revealing ghost stories, haunted festivals, and supernatural legends deeply rooted in American history.

While these destinations can be visited year-round, this episode also gives a heads-up on unique Halloween experiences that require advance planning, as many popular ghost tours, haunted festivals, and seasonal events book out quickly. From Southern spirits like the Gray Man and the Rougarou to famous hauntings connected to political power and pivotal moments in U.S. history, ghost tours offer a fascinating way to experience local culture through a spooky lens.

👻 Read Jo’s article: https://recipestravelculture.com/10-best-haunted-towns-in-the-u-s/

🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday. Listen: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Vacation Station,” and “Way Back When” podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food Wine & Travel" Show with International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, travel writer and photographer Cori Solomon joins the show to explore the rich agricultural roots, evolving wine scene, and vibrant community of Morgan Hill, California. From its early farming history—including the once-thriving mushroom industry—to today’s sustainable wineries and farm-to-table dining culture, Morgan Hill reveals itself as a destination deeply connected to the land.

Cori shares insights from her travels and reporting, highlighting how local winemakers, chefs, and growers work together to shape the region’s identity. The conversation also touches on the role of the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) in fostering professional connections and storytelling that brings destinations like Morgan Hill to life.

Cori Solomon is an award-winning writer and photographer based in Los Angeles. Her blog, The Written Palette, features eclectic stories focused on travel, wine, art, architecture, and pets—always uncovering the story behind the chef, winery, winemaker, or artist. She serves as President and Membership Chair of IFWTWA and is a member of NATJA, SATW, CWA, and DWAA. Learn more about Cori and her work: https://writtenpalette.com

📰 Cori’s Morgan Hill story is also featured in the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

🌐 Plan Your Morgan Hill Adventure: https://visitmorganhill.org/

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

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