This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features travel writer and photographer Marni Patterson, who shares her experiences exploring the fascinating history and culture of Istanbul, Turkey, and its surrounding regions.

From the iconic crossroads of East and West to the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli and the legendary city of Troy, Marni delves into the stories, myths, and cultural layers that make this part of the world so compelling. She also discusses the importance of respecting local customs, offers travel tips for exploring Turkey, and reflects on the realities and rewards of being a travel writer.

📖 Read Marni’s article, Exploring History and Culture In & Around Istanbul: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-history-and-culture-in-and-around-istanbul/

🌐 Follow Marni’s adventures: https://mptravelwriting.com/

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

🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio's “Vacation Station,” “Parks & Travel,” and “Way Back When” channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features award-winning author, globe-trotting adventurer, and veteran oncology nurse Inga Aksamit. She shares her insights into the rich cultural diversity, natural beauty, and culinary wonders of Indonesia beyond Bali.

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers travelers vibrant marine life, coral reefs, unique cultural traditions, and regional cuisines that make every destination an adventure. Inga highlights lesser-known islands, the importance of sustainable tourism, and the value of respecting local cultures while traveling. She also shares her perspective on travel writing, managing inter-island logistics, and the role of organizations like IFWTWA in supporting travel writers.

📖 Read Inga’s stories about exploring Indonesia: - Beyond Bali: Your Indonesia Island Itinerary Guide – https://ingasadventures.com/2025/08/04/beyond-bali-your-indonesia-island-itinerary-guide/ - Thinking of Visiting Indonesia? Don’t Stop at Bali — Here’s Where to Go Next – https://medium.com/batw-travel-stories/thinking-of-visiting-indonesia-dont-stop-at-bali-here-s-where-to-go-next-3d99da23854c

🌐 Follow Inga’s adventures: https://ingasadventures.com/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Parks & Travel" channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features travel writer, photographer, and IFWTWA Board Secretary Judi Cohen, also known as Traveling Judi. Judi shares her experience cruising all five Great Lakes with Victory Cruise Lines, highlighting the unique aspects of small ship cruising, the region’s cultural and historical significance, and local flavors discovered along the way.

From the historic charm of Mackinac Island and the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, to the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks, the roaring thunder of Niagara Falls, the cityscapes of Chicago and Toronto, and the seasonal beauty of the waterways, Judi emphasizes how the Great Lakes connect Canada and the United States while offering travelers an unforgettable journey of discovery.

📖 Read Judi’s article, I Cruised All Five Great Lakes with Victory Cruise Lines: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/i-cruised-all-five-great-lakes-with-victory-cruise-lines/

🌐 Follow Judi at https://travelingjudi.com/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA at https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐 Follow this podcast which is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" travel channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m