Vacation Station

Summer Adventures in California’s Sequoia Country

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast celebrates the start of summer along with Great Outdoors Month and Dairy Month! Tune in to discover the spectacular sights and experiences awaiting you in Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and the Giant Sequoia National Monument.
From towering giant sequoias and outdoor adventures to vibrant agricultural communities and local cultural events, this region is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
Featured Guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council:* Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ * Magdalena Salazar – City of Porterville: https://www.ci.porterville.ca.us/visitors/index.php * Julia Dix – Tulare Chamber of Commerce: http://www.tularechamber.org/ * Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm 
🎒 Plan Your Trip: Download the free Tulare County Visitor Guide at https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Show: https://discover-the-sequoias.podbean.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station," and "Big Daily Blend" channels. Subscribe to the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Chasing Sakura in Japan – A Cherry Blossom Journey

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon," award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us on a breathtaking journey through Japan during the magical cherry blossom season. From the vibrant energy of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the majestic views of Mount Fuji, Sharon shares personal stories, cultural insights, and practical tips for exploring Japan’s natural beauty and rich traditions.
Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or dreaming of your first visit to Japan, this episode will inspire and inform your future travels.
📝 Read Sharon’s full article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/chasing-sakuru-a-journey-through-japans-cherry-blossoms/ 
🎙️ Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz and her global adventures: https://sharonkkurtz.com 
📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 
🎧 Listen on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station channel: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Zipline and Canopy Adventures in Asheville, North Carolina

In this exciting episode of Big Blend Radio’s Adventures in Asheville podcast, we celebrate National Great Outdoors Month by exploring the thrill and beauty of ziplining with Navitat Canopy Adventures—a premier tree-based adventure company just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville, North Carolina.
🎧 Featured guest Teresa DeCastro shares what makes Navitat a must-visit for adventure seekers, couples, families, and groups. From heart-racing ziplines to romantic proposals, group celebrations, and inclusive outdoor experiences, Navitat offers a safe and scenic way to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains like never before. Learn more: https://navitat.com/asheville-nc/ 
🌿 Hosts Steve & Karen Wilson, aka “Mr & Mrs Wild”, join the conversation with their insights as innkeepers of the Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a beautifully restored pink Victorian located in Asheville’s historic Montford District. Discover their summer specials and plan your Asheville escape: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
🎙️ The episode also highlights:- Personal stories of overcoming fear and growing through adventure- The importance of capturing memories (with help from Navitat’s guides)- The power of nature’s resilience, even after disasters- Why supporting local businesses and community-based tourism matters more than ever- How shared outdoor experiences strengthen family bonds and create lifelong memories
📅 Big Blend Radio’s Adventures in Asheville airs every first Tuesday on the Big Blend Radio Network. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 
🎧 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s other podcast channels including Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend. Explore our full podcast network at: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Pensacola Part 2: Military Pride, Local Flavor & Coastal Culture

In Part 2 of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" podcast on Pensacola, Florida, travel writer Terri Guthrie continues her coastal journey by exploring the deep-rooted connection between military and civilian life in the Florida Panhandle. From the emotional stories behind military service to vibrant nightlife and historical landmarks, this episode dives into the heart and soul of Pensacola’s culture. 
🎙️ Hear about:- The powerful presence of the U.S. Navy, the Blue Angels, and the National Naval Aviation Museum- The emotional experiences and sacrifices tied to military families- The warmth of Southern hospitality in welcoming service members- Local favorites like the Bushwhacker cocktail and nightlife at Seville Quarter- Hidden gems like Fort Pickens, natural landscapes, and Pensacola’s claim as the first European settlement in the U.S.
📖 Catch up on Part 1 & read Terri’s article about Pensacola:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discover-pensacola-florida/ 
📅 NEW! “Travel with Terri” is now a WEEKLY podcast—tune in every Tuesday at 9 AM CT!🎧 Subscribe & follow here: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels.🎧 Full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Explore Scotland on a European Waterways Luxury Barge Cruise

Join us on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast as travel writer Debbie Stone shares highlights from her unforgettable European Waterways luxury barge cruise aboard the Spirit of Scotland. Journey through Scotland’s stunning Great Glen, between the historic city of Inverness and the town of Fort William, while taking in breathtaking views, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.
 
Debbie recounts her relaxing and scenic cruise along the Caledonian Canal, with memorable off-boat excursions including:
* Tours of castles and distilleries
* A captivating falconry and birds of prey demonstration
* Visits to historic landmarks like Fort Augustus, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns
 
Learn what makes European Waterways the premier barging company in Europe, with its fleet of 18 luxurious vessels cruising across nine countries, and discover why this intimate, all-inclusive travel experience is unlike any other.
 
📖 Read Debbie’s full article:
https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/explore-scotland-on-a-european-waterways-barge-cruise/ 
 
🧭 Plan your trip:
https://www.europeanwaterways.com 
 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the podcast:
https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
 
🖼️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio's “Vacation Station” travel channel
Explore more inspiring episodes on the Big Blend Radio Network:
https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Historic Pensacola, Florida – Blue Angels, Beach Bliss & Coastal Culture

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" podcast, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes you on an unforgettable journey through beautiful and historic Pensacola, Florida—a dream beach destination packed with adventure, charm, and rich history.
From watching the Blue Angels practice from the Flight Line to nighttime kayaking, indulging in ocean-to-table dining, and enjoying luxury accommodations, Terri shares her firsthand experiences and travel tips to help you plan your perfect Pensacola getaway.
While Pensacola is famed for its sugar-white sand beaches, there's so much more to discover. Explore nearly 500 years of history, visit centuries-old landmarks, tour top-tier museums, shop at Florida’s #1 outdoor market, and savor the flavors of the Gulf at the region’s incredible restaurants and cafes.
🎧 Listen now to uncover why Pensacola should be on your travel radar!
📖 Read Terri’s full Pensacola article:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discover-pensacola-florida/
🌍 Follow Terri’s global adventures:https://travelwithterri.net/
📅 New episodes every 4th Monday at 6 PM CST. Subscribe here:https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels.🎧 Subscribe to the full Big Blend Radio Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Military History Experiences: Coronado, California to Corning, New York

In this special Memorial Day episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor our nation’s heroes and spotlight Military Appreciation Month with travel writer and editor Kris Grant. She shares the deep military and naval aviation history of Coronado, California, highlighting its connection to naval aviation, Navy SEAL training, and legendary figures like Glenn Curtiss.
The conversation explores life on a naval base, the evolution of military aviation, and the cultural significance of Coronado—from the festive Independence Day Parade to the historic and famously haunted Hotel del Coronado.
Kris also shares insights on other fascinating military history destinations, including:
Dayton, Ohio – A hub of aviation heritage with the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
Hammondsport and Corning, New York – Home to the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum and the scenic Finger Lakes region
🎧 Listen in for inspiring stories that commemorate service and preserve the legacy of America’s military past.
🔗 Websites & Resources:
Coronado Magazine & Coronado Eagle/Journal: https://www.coronadonewsca.com/
Visit Coronado, California: https://discovercoronado.com/
Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (Hammondsport, NY): https://glennhcurtissmuseum.org/
Explore Corning & the Finger Lakes: https://exploresteuben.com/
Destination Dayton (Visitor Info): https://www.destinationdayton.org/
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/
National Aviation Heritage Area: https://www.nps.gov/daav/index.htm
International Food Wine Travel Writers Association: https://ifwtwa.org/

Honoring Service: Acts of Kindness, Travel, and Military Appreciation

In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month by exploring the deep connections formed through acts of kindness—especially within the military community. The conversation also highlights how travel can deepen our understanding of military history and sacrifice.
Guests Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass travel blog, share their inspiring story of meeting through the nonprofit organization Soldiers’ Angels. They discuss the emotional bonds built through care packages, letters, and food, and how small gestures can create lasting impacts for both soldiers and supporters.Follow their adventures:https://www.wandererscompass.com/
Innkeepers Steve & Karen Wilson of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, and Tiffany Bertram of Tiffany’s Bed & Breakfast in Hot Springs, Arkansas, share how they honor veterans through initiatives like baking for troops and offering free stays for veterans in November. They also discuss veteran support efforts and historical military sites within their communities.Learn more about their inns:https://www.lion-rose.com/https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com/
Through moving personal stories and thoughtful conversations, this episode shines a light on the power of giving, the importance of remembrance, and the many meaningful ways we can support those who serve.
🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Wanderer's Compass and Military Appreciation03:05 – The Journey of Connection through Soldiers’ Angels05:59 – The Impact of Food and Care Packages09:08 – Building Bonds: From Soldiers to Family12:05 – The Ripple Effect of Kindness and Compassion15:03 – The Importance of Communication and Understanding18:12 – Volunteering and Supporting Veterans21:06 – The Role of Community in Veteran Support23:52 – Personal Stories and Emotional Connections27:13 – Encouraging Engagement with Veterans30:02 – Conclusion: The Power of Giving and Connection38:32 – The Impact of Travel on Understanding History41:53 – Visiting War Memorials: A Personal Journey44:52 – The Importance of Learning Real History48:21 – Reflections on War and Its Consequences54:11 – Exploring Turkey: A New Adventure56:52 – Connecting with Innkeepers: A Tribute to Veterans01:06:04 – Honoring Military History and Service01:09:46 – Community Support for Veterans01:12:39 – Understanding Sacrifice and Service01:20:17 – Exploring Family History and Genealogy01:26:14 – Baking for Troops and Community Engagement
🔗 Keep up with Big Blend Radio’s network of shows:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork