Vacation Station

Natchez, Mississippi: Adventures in History, Culture & Cuisine

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the timeless beauty, layered history, and Southern charm of Natchez, one of the oldest settlements along the mighty Mississippi River. From elegant antebellum homes and historic landmarks to river cruises, live music, and memorable culinary experiences, Natchez offers travelers a rich blend of culture and hospitality.
Lisa shares stories about the city’s Indigenous heritage, architectural treasures, and pivotal role in early American history, including visits to historic sites like Ellicott's Hill and nearby plantation properties that help tell the complex story of the region’s past. The episode also highlights local museums, Southern cuisine, and the charm of staying at historic inns like the Devereaux Shields House.
Whether you're interested in heritage travel, Mississippi River culture, music history, or classic Southern hospitality, Natchez is a destination filled with unforgettable experiences—and a meaningful stop for travelers exploring America’s history ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.
READ LISA'S NATCHEZ TRAVEL ARTICLES:- Discover Beautiful Natchez, Mississippi: https://playstayeat.com/2023/02/01/discover-beautiful-natchez-mississippi/ - Natchez, MS Restaurants Guide: lhttps://www.foodieflashpacker.com/natchez-ms-restaurants/ - Natchez Mississippi: History, Antebellum Homes & Southern Hospitality:https://writerlisa.com/2025/10/03/natchez-mississippi-history-antebellum-homes-southern-hospitality/ 
LISA EVANS is a travel writer and photographer, travel advisor, and author of "100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die."  More at:- https://writerlisa.com/    - https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelsoothesthesoul - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisae_travel 
FOLLOW JOURNEY JUKEBOX🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 📖 Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 6pm CST: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 

Shipshewana, Indiana: Discovering Amish Country Traditions, Food & Family Life

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Podcast takes you into the heart of Amish Country as Terri and Ron Guthrie explore Shipshewana, one of the most fascinating and welcoming destinations in the Midwest. From horse-and-buggy rides and handmade craftsmanship to homemade pies, family traditions, and strong faith-centered living, this episode offers an authentic look at Amish culture and community life in Northern Indiana.
Recorded onsite at E & S Sales, Terri interviews co-owner Jay Chupp about growing up Amish, the importance of faith and family, Amish schools, entrepreneurship, large family life, church traditions, and the realities behind common misconceptions about the Amish community. Jay also shares the inspiring story behind E & S Sales, a beloved bulk food and discount grocery destination that draws visitors from across the country.
The episode also highlights memorable experiences in Shipshewana including buggy rides, the Menno-Hof Museum, the famous flea market and auctions, Amish farms, delicious Amish cooking, handcrafted goods, and entertainment at the Blue Gate Theatre.
Plan Your Visit to Shipshewana: - https://visitshipshewana.org/ 
🔗 Follow Terri’s Adventures:- https://www.instagram.com/travelwithterri/ - https://travelwithterri.net/ - Listen to the Podcast: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

Discover Chautauqua County: Wine, Comedy, History & Outdoor Adventures

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Victoria Burch of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau shares what makes Chautauqua County a memorable year-round destination for travelers of all ages.
Located in Western New York near Lake Erie, Chautauqua County offers a unique mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, history, wine country experiences, and family-friendly fun. The conversation highlights the region’s scenic lakes, hiking trails, winter sports, and charming small towns, along with its thriving craft beverage scene through the Grape & Grain Trail.
Discover attractions such as the National Comedy Center, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, and the renowned Chautauqua Institution, known worldwide for its arts, education, and cultural programming.
The episode also explores outdoor adventures like boating on Chautauqua Lake, discovering the natural beauty of Panama Rocks Scenic Park, and experiencing local history at destinations like the Robert H. Jackson Center.
Whether you’re interested in wine tasting, comedy, history, arts, or nature escapes, Chautauqua County offers something for every traveler.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Plan your visit: https://www.tourchautauqua.com/ - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ - Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ - Check out the Big Blend Radio "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

Family-Friendly Festivals & Louisiana Culture: Summer Fun in Avoyelles Parish

This shared 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.
Featured guests include Joan Botts of Paragon Casino Resort who talks about their first annual Paragon Stampede & Rodeo, Van Roy of Bailey’s on the Square and the Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival, and LeLe Soileau of the Louisiana Corn Festival.
The conversation spotlights the vibrant festivals, live music, culinary traditions, rodeo excitement, and strong community spirit that make Avoyelles Parish a must-visit destination in Central Louisiana. Hear about upcoming events at Paragon Casino Resort, the history and growth of the Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival, and the family-friendly fun of the Louisiana Corn Festival in Bunkie.
Listeners will also discover how local traditions—from Cajun and Zydeco music to agricultural celebrations and the unique Charivari custom—help preserve the parish’s rich cultural heritage while bringing the community together.
From art and entertainment to food, farming, and family fun, this episode showcases the welcoming atmosphere and creative energy that define Avoyelles Parish.
LINKS & RESOURCES🔗 Travel Avoyelles: https://travelavoyelles.com/ 🔗 Paragon Casino Resort: https://www.paragoncasinoresort.com/ 🔗 Bailey’s on the Square: https://www.facebook.com/p/Baileys-on-the-Square-100057371271609/ 🔗 Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival:https://www.facebook.com/avoyellesartsandmusicfestival/ https://www.avoyellesarts.com/ 🔗 Louisiana Corn Festival:https://www.bunkiechamber.org/corn-festival https://www.facebook.com/lacornfest/ 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com 

Uncorking Oregon’s Willamette Valley: Wine, Food & Hidden Gems

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark explores the renowned wine region of Willamette Valley, where rolling vineyards, welcoming tasting rooms, and unforgettable culinary experiences create a dream destination for wine lovers and travelers alike.
In this engaging episode that celebrates Oregon Wine Month, Jo shares her adventures visiting wineries throughout Oregon’s celebrated wine country, discovering everything from award-winning Pinot Noir and volcanic soil vineyards to hidden gems found through spontaneous detours and local recommendations. The conversation highlights how geography, climate, and the diverse cultural backgrounds of winemakers shape the region’s distinctive wines and warm hospitality.
Alongside the wine tasting experiences, Jo also explores the area’s exceptional food scene, charming accommodations, gourmet breakfasts, and the strong sense of collaboration among Willamette Valley winemakers. The episode also touches on the history of the region and how travel, food, and wine together create meaningful cultural experiences.
Whether you’re planning a wine country getaway or simply dreaming about Oregon adventures, this episode offers inspiration for discovering the flavors, people, and stories that make Willamette Valley so special.
Read Jo’s article: https://recipestravelculture.com/26-must-visit-willamette-valley-wineries/ 
📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/ 
📲 Follow Jo:https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/ 
🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday. Listen:https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 

Exploring Antarctica & South Georgia Island: Wildlife, Conservation & Expedition Cruising

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her unforgettable expedition cruise through Antarctica and South Georgia Island, exploring not only the breathtaking glaciers and wildlife, but also the strict environmental protections and sustainable tourism practices that help preserve one of Earth’s last great wildernesses.
From towering icebergs and dramatic polar landscapes to unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals, and seabirds, Rose reflects on the awe-inspiring beauty and emotional impact of visiting the “Last Continent.” She discusses what it’s really like to travel aboard an expedition cruise through the Southern Ocean, including the logistics of Antarctic travel, onboard life, and the importance of flexibility in remote environments.
The conversation also dives into the extensive conservation efforts that protect Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem. Rose explains how carefully managed tourism, biosecurity protocols, and strict wildlife regulations help minimize environmental impact while allowing travelers to experience this extraordinary destination responsibly.
Whether you dream of expedition cruising, wildlife photography, polar exploration, or immersive nature travel, this episode offers inspiration, practical insights, and a deeper appreciation for one of the most pristine places on Earth.
📖 Read Rose’s Antarctica Articles: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/antarctica-south-georgia-rose-palmer 
🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 
📰 Check Out the “Quiltripping Travel” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/QUILTRIPPING-TRAVEL-WITH-ROSE-MAG/#p=1 
🎧Follow the Podcast from your Favorite Listening Platform:https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 

Getting to Know Avoyelles Parish in Louisiana with Wilbert Carmouche & Mary Guillory

Recorded onsite in Central Louisiana, this fun and shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast features hosts and producers Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith alongside Wilbert Carmouche and Mary Guillory of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism.
Hear about Nancy and Lisa’s experiences exploring Avoyelles Parish—from local food and cultural traditions to historic sites, festivals, and the welcoming spirit of the community. The conversation highlights the region’s rich heritage, including stories connected to Solomon Northup, the historic Jefferson Highway, local traditions, and the pride residents have in sharing their culture with visitors.
Listeners also get to know Wilbert and Mary on a more personal level through Big Blend’s signature “Getting to Know You” questions, covering passions, life lessons, bucket-list dreams, creativity, and community connection.
From Cajun and Creole influences to art, agriculture, festivals, and storytelling, this episode captures the heart and soul of Avoyelles Parish—where heritage, hospitality, and community come together.
🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ 
🔗 Explore Big Blend Radio & Media: https://BigBlendMediaHouse.com 

Topanga Canyon Adventures: Music, Hiking & Hidden Gems in the Santa Monica Mountains

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares why she fell in love with Topanga Canyon, the artistic and spiritual enclave nestled in California’s Santa Monica Mountains.
From wildflower-covered hiking trails and sweeping ocean views to live music festivals, eclectic shops, and hidden gathering spaces, Linda explores the unique culture and community spirit that makes Topanga so special. Learn about the canyon’s deep ties to music legends like Neil Young, Canned Heat, and The Doors, along with the history of beloved venues like The Corral.
Linda also discusses local treasures including Theatricum Botanicum, the magical Inn of the Seventh Ray, the artistic sanctuary of Jalan Jalan Imports, and the vibrant community hub of Pine Tree Circle.
The conversation highlights the canyon’s hiking culture, Indigenous history, spiritual traditions, and the restorative power of nature that continues to draw artists, musicians, writers, and seekers to this hidden corner of Southern California. Plus, Linda reads from her essay, “My Season in the Canyon.”
📝 Read Linda’s article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/linda-ballou-offers-a-toast-to-her-beloved-topanga-town-in-californias-santa-monica-mountains/ 
📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ 
🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com