Vacation Station

Exploring England's Historic Colleges & Universities

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Podcast explores the enduring power of education through England’s ancient colleges and universities—places where history, culture, libraries, and global connections intersect. Historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows reflects on how universities have long served as centers of learning, inspiration, and cultural exchange, shaping societies far beyond their walls.
The conversation highlights how historic universities preserve knowledge through libraries and archives, support genealogy and family history research, and foster lifelong learning across generations. From public lectures and community events to gardens, architecture, and centuries-old traditions, these academic institutions are revealed as living heritage sites—places to visit, explore, and experience firsthand.
The episode also examines access to education around the world, the social fabric of university life, and the value of experiential learning, showing how education connects people globally while remaining deeply rooted in local history. Whether viewed through the lens of scholarship, travel, or cultural curiosity, England’s ancient colleges continue to inspire discovery, reflection, and connection.
🔗 Read Glynn’s accompanying article on Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/the-halls-of-heritage  
🔗NEW! Check out Big Blend Radio's ENGLISH CONNECTION Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/English-Connection/  🔗This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Big Daily Blend," "Way Back When," and "Vacation Station" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Make Bellingham Your Next Pacific Northwest Getaway

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" Podcast with travel writer Debbie Stone focuses on why Bellingham, Washington is a destination worth slowing down for.
From the scenic coastal views along Chuckanut Drive to the historic charm of Fairhaven Village, the conversation highlights Bellingham’s strong sense of community, vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and rich cultural offerings. Debbie discusses the city’s walkability, museums, outdoor sculptures, and diverse culinary scene—especially its fresh seafood—while emphasizing the importance of travel that allows time to relax, explore, and truly enjoy the moment.
The episode also touches on the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty, year-round outdoor adventures, and the growing popularity of soccer in the U.S., reflecting the pride and spirit of the local community.
PLAN YOUR VISIT- Read Debbie's Article: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/bellingham-washington - https://www.bellingham.org/ - https://www.fairhavenvillageinn.com/  
NEW EPISODES of "Global Adventures" drop every 4th Tuesday. Listen: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
CHECK OUT THE NEW "Global Adventures" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/#p=1 
As part of our "Plan For a Vacation Day" programming, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" & "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Colo, Iowa: Preserving Highway History at the Reed-Niland Corner

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show takes us to the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa, a beloved crossroads and symbol of Americana along the Jefferson Highway.
As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. The featured guest is Brenda McGuire of the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa. Follow the Reed-Niland Corner on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/p/Reed-Niland-Corner-100064692456354/ 
The conversation dives into the history of COLO, a small farming community with deep roots tied to agriculture, travel, and hospitality — and a name with a memorable backstory. Local lore shares that COLO was named after a dog belonging to a railroad official, a detail that perfectly reflects the town’s small-town charm and Americana spirit. 
Hear how Charlie Reed originally started the gas station to help travelers, how community members are preserving the Reed-Niland Corner through a museum and community events, and why community engagement is essential to keeping Jefferson Highway stories alive. From historic markers and nostalgic road trips to hot beef sandwiches, homemade pies, and pie-eating contests, this episode celebrates slow travel and living history.
JEFFERSON HIGHWAY RESOURCESThe Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
-  The Jefferson Highway Travel Guide Website: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
- Jefferson Highway Dispatch – A Substack "newsletter" publication: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ 
- The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When" and "Road Trip Radio, podcast channels.  Explore the network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

Magical Malibu: Its Queen, Hidden Gems & Coastal Escapes

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Podcast, Linda Ballou takes us on a captivating journey through Malibu, California, uncovering its rich history, natural beauty, and lesser-known treasures.
The conversation begins with the remarkable story of May Rindge, known as the “Queen of Malibu,” whose fierce determination helped protect the region from the expansion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the early 1900s. Linda shares fascinating anecdotes about Rindge’s legacy, including her role in shaping iconic landmarks such as the Malibu Pier and the Adamson House, both enduring symbols of Malibu’s cultural heritage.
The episode also explores Malibu’s quieter side — from hidden beaches and scenic hiking trails to springtime wildflower blooms and beloved local dining spots like Malibu Seafood Café. Along the way, Linda encourages travelers to look beyond the celebrity headlines and experience Malibu’s soulful landscapes, layered history, and timeless coastal charm.
📝 Read Linda’s travel article:https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/in-a-malibu-state-of-mind-linda-ballou-shares-the-amazing-tale-of-may-rindge-the-queen-of-malibu-other-reasons-why-you-should-visit/ 
🌍 Keep up with Linda’s books & adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” “Parks & Travel” and "Women Making History" Podcast Channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Caribbean Cruise Adventures: Culture, History & Connection

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 

St. Augustine, Florida: Experience Living History and More in America’s Oldest City

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 

Sip, Savor & Explore Steuben County: Wine, History & Small Town Life

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 

Discover Avoyelles Parish: Culture, Cuisine & Community in Central Louisiana

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