Vacation Station

California's Sequoia Country Through Time: Parks, People & Places

Journey through the history of California's Sequoia Country as we explore the parks, people, and places that have shaped Tulare County—from giant sequoias and Indigenous heritage to military history, railroads, agriculture, and the communities that continue to preserve the region's remarkable legacy.
In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's California's Sequoia Country podcast, discover the fascinating stories behind Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the General Grant Tree, Colonel Allensworth, Native American tribes, historic communities, museums, and the agricultural traditions that continue to define this remarkable region. Learn how nature, history, and culture come together to create one of California's most inspiring destinations.
Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:* Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ * Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm * Shannon Schroth – Exeter Chamber of Commerce: https://www.exeterchamber.com/ * Dwight Miller – Exeter Historian
📍 PLAN YOUR VISIT: * Sequoia Tourism Council: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ * Museum Alliance of Tulare-Kings Counties: https://matkc.org/ * California's Sequoia Country Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-s-sequoia-country-podcast * Big Blend Radio's "California's Sequoia Country" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-s-sequoia-country-magazine 
📡 This episode celebrates America 250 and Parks & Recreation Month (July 2026). 

Exploring Fernie, British Columbia: Mountain Adventures, Wellness & Local Flavor

Discover one of British Columbia's most welcoming mountain destinations on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast with travel writer Linda Kissam, the "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva." 
Featured guest Christine Grimble of Tourism Fernie shares insider tips on exploring Fernie, a four-season destination known for spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, vibrant arts and culture, local cuisine, and wellness experiences.
Whether you're planning a scenic road trip, ski vacation, hiking getaway, or relaxing mountain escape, Fernie offers something for every traveler. Learn about the area's rich history, world-class skiing, hiking and biking trails, the Elk River, artisan food and beverage experiences, wellness retreats, and why this charming mountain community continues to attract visitors year-round.
📍Travel Resources & Inspiration- Read Linda's article: Fernie BC: A Must Do Road Trip Adventure: ps://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/fernie-british-columbia-road-trip 
- Plan your visit: https://www.tourismfernie.com 
- Follow Linda Kissam's adventures: https://foodwinetravelchix.com/ 
- Explore Linda's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-magazine 
- Listen to more episodes of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-podcast 

Charleston, Kiawah Island & Savannah: History, Nature, Romance & Southern Charm

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz explores the timeless beauty of Charleston, South Carolina, Kiawah Island, and Savannah, Georgia, sharing highlights from an unforgettable Lowcountry journey filled with history, nature, coastal charm, and Southern hospitality.
Beginning in Charleston, Sharon discovers the city's rich colonial history, vibrant arts scene, historic neighborhoods, beautiful gardens, and acclaimed restaurants before attending a family wedding at the luxurious Sanctuary on Kiawah Island. She then heads south to Savannah, where charming public squares, centuries-old architecture, fascinating museums, rooftop bars, and scenic riverfront views reveal why the city remains one of America's most romantic destinations.
Along the way, Sharon shares memorable wildlife encounters—from dolphins and bald eagles to herons and alligators—along with recommendations for historic walking tours, harbor sailing excursions, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Bonaventure Cemetery, exceptional Lowcountry cuisine, and the welcoming culture that makes this region so special.
As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, Charleston, Kiawah Island, and Savannah offer unforgettable opportunities to experience the history, culture, landscapes, and hospitality that have helped shape our nation's story.
📝 Read Sharon's "Low Country Escape" article:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/low-country-escape 
📖 Check out Sharon's Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1 
🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz:https://sharonkkurtz.com 
🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 

Travel Journalist Terri Guthrie: 65 Countries, Luxury Travel, Family & Life Lessons

Get to know acclaimed travel writer and luxury travel expert Terri Guthrie on this special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio.
As part of the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com, TravelwithTerri.com, and "The Luxe Explorer" digital podcast magazine, Terri shares the inspiring journey behind her decades of travel, family adventures, culinary discoveries, and the life lessons she's gathered while exploring more than 65 countries.
From unforgettable meals and cultural experiences to bucket-list destinations, multi-generational travel, luxury escapes, and giving back through kindness, this engaging conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the woman behind the adventures.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler, foodie, or simply love hearing inspiring personal stories, you'll discover what fuels Terri's passion for exploring the world—and why travel has the power to transform lives.
Learn more and follow Terri's adventures:
👉 Visit https://www.travelwithterri.com/ 
🎙️ Travel with Terri Podcast (airs every other Tuesday):https://www.travelwithterri.com/podcast 
📖 The Luxe Explorer Digital Magazine (updated monthly):https://www.travelwithterri.com/magazine 
✨ Keep up with Terri's podcast highlights:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/t/terri-guthrie 

Gorillas, Coal Mines, and Fried Chicken: Exploring the Jefferson Highway in Crawford County, Kansas

Celebrate Pittsburg, Kansas' 150th Anniversary Year with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast exploring the history, culture, food, music, and heritage of Crawford County in Southeast Kansas—just in time for America 250, the Route 66 Centennial, and the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Conference.
Featured guest is Chris Wilson, Marketing & Communications for Explore Crawford County and Treasurer of Southeast Kansas Tourism.
Travel the original Jefferson Highway through Crawford County as Chris shares stories about historic road alignments, original concrete pavement, century-old iron bridges, Lincoln Park's Jefferson Highway campsite, and the remarkable preservation efforts taking place throughout the region.
The conversation also explores Pittsburg's rich coal mining heritage, the famous Amazon Army march, Big Brutus, colorful murals, public art, museums, genealogy research, and the diverse immigrant cultures that helped shape Southeast Kansas. Discover why the area is famous for its legendary fried chicken restaurants, live music, local breweries, scenic backroads, and authentic small-town experiences.
Don't forget the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference, taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, including the conference's popular Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66, including Crawford County! 
Learn more about Crawford County in Southeast Kansas:https://explorecrawfordcounty.com/ 
The 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. More: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide:https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
📰 Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch:https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ 
The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the show at:https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Córdoba Unveiled: A Journey Through Spain's Historic Jewel

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone explores the captivating city of Córdoba, Spain, where centuries of Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences have created one of Europe's most fascinating cultural landscapes.
A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Córdoba invites visitors to wander its winding historic streets, discover architectural masterpieces, and uncover stories that span more than two thousand years. Debbie shares highlights from her journey, including the awe-inspiring Mezquita-Catedral, one of the world's most remarkable examples of Islamic and Christian architecture, and the historic Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress that played a significant role in Spanish history.
The conversation also delves into Córdoba's celebrated traditions, from colorful festivals and lively plazas to the elegance of the famed Andalusian horses, whose performances reflect the region's enduring cultural heritage.
Whether you're drawn to history, architecture, or immersive cultural experiences, this episode reveals why Córdoba remains one of Spain's most extraordinary destinations.
📖 Read Debbie's article:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/cordoba-spain 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
📚 Explore Debbie's Global Adventures Digital Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/ 

Pets, Purpose & Slow Travel: Getting to Know Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters

In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebrating the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com.
This shared episode features co-host Angela Laws, Head of Charitable Partnerships and External Engagement at TrustedHousesitters, who shares her inspiring journey through pet sitting, purposeful travel, animal welfare, and community building.
A lifelong animal lover, Angela discusses how pet sitting became a lifestyle that has allowed her to experience cultures around the world while caring for pets and helping pet parents travel with peace of mind. 
From meaningful travel experiences and cultural discoveries to charitable work supporting animal rescue and fostering, Angela reflects on the trust, communication, and compassion that connect people through a shared love of animals.
The conversation also explores the benefits of slow travel, the emotional bonds between pets and their people, favorite destinations, life lessons learned through travel, and the importance of supporting animal welfare organizations.
🐾 Learn more about TrustedHousesitters:https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ 
🏡 Explore Big Blend Media House:https://bigblendmediahouse.com/ 
🎧 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes:https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

Lessons Learned from Travel: Look Both Ways on Small Islands

In Part One of her new "Lessons Learned from Travel" series, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares a memorable story from her award-winning travel memoir, Lost Angel Walkabout.
In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show, Linda reads an excerpt from her story "Look Both Ways on Small Islands," recounting her first international solo adventure to Tahiti. What began as a dream trip through Bora Bora and Moorea quickly turned into an unexpected lesson in awareness, perception, and personal safety when local authorities mistakenly suspected her of involvement in a drug investigation. 
Linda reflects on the travel lessons she learned from the experience, including the importance of situational awareness, trusting your instincts, and understanding that when you travel, you're never as anonymous as you think. The conversation also explores solo travel, personal growth, travel safety, and how these early adventures ultimately inspired the title of her book series, "Lost Angel Adventures."
📖 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales on Audible: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/ 
🌍 Follow Linda's Books & Adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe from your favorite podcast platform: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 
📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/