Vacation Station

End-of-Year Experiences in California's Sequoia Country

From festive markets to winter hiking trails, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California’s Sequoia Country” podcast highlights the many ways to enjoy Tulare County as the year winds down. Discover the region’s charming local events, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures that make this destination shine during the holiday season.
Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:- Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/   - Donnette Silva Carter – Tulare Chamber of Commerce: https://www.tularechamber.org/   - Daniel Huecker – Sequoia Parks Conservancy: https://sequoiaparksconservancy.org/   - Alida Verduzco Silva – Tulare County Resource Management Agency: https://discovertularecounty.com/    
🎧 This conversation explores the shopping, seasonal events, and culinary experiences that make Tulare County and California’s Sequoia Country a vibrant end-of-year destination. From vendor fairs and local food trails to winter adventures and guided programs in the parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit here: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/  
Takeaways:• Tulare County offers a wide variety of holiday shopping and craft markets.• Local eateries showcase flavors from tacos to Mediterranean fare.• Outdoor winter activities include hiking, snowshoeing, and stargazing.• Sequoia Parks Conservancy hosts guided hikes and astronomy programs.• The region celebrates its agricultural bounty and community traditions.
📡 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel, Vacation Station, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork   

Bavaria by River: Solo Adventures, History & Storybook Charm

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 magical river cruise through storybook Bavaria. From historic cities to charming medieval villages, Sharon shares her solo travel experiences exploring this enchanting region of Germany.
Sharon discusses the rise of solo travel, especially among women, and the joys of unpacking her suitcase only once while discovering multiple destinations along the river. Highlights include the Chagall windows at St. Stephan’s Church, Nuremberg’s famous sausages, Bamberg’s smoked beer, Rothenburg’s Christmas store, and Bavaria’s exceptional local wines. The conversation also reflects on the importance of remembering history while embracing the present-day beauty and culture that Bavaria offers.
📝 Read Sharon’s full article:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-solo-travelers-river-cruise-through-storybook-bavaria/ 
🌐 Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz and her global adventures: https://sharonkkurtz.com 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Way Back When channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 

Sip, Stay and Savor: Souther Williams Vineyard Meets The Lion and the Rose

Join Steve and Karen Wilson for another Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" episode, this time visiting Souther Williams Vineyard in Fletcher, North Carolina, with owner Kenneth Parker. This conversation explores the beauty of the vineyard during the fall and winter seasons, from stunning fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway to cozy winter experiences by the fire. Kenneth shares the rich history of the bicentennial farm, unique European-style varietals, and the hands-on winery tours that make Souther Williams a must-visit destination.
Learn about vineyard hikes, wine tastings, and food pairings, plus seasonal events like the Wassailing hot mulled wine celebration, Thanksgiving trivia nights, and Valentine's Day murder mystery experiences. Steve and Karen also highlight the perfect winter getaway at their Lion & the Rose Bed and Breakfast, complete with cozy fireplaces, specialty breakfasts, and charming rooms for a memorable Asheville stay.
This episode emphasizes enjoying wine and family gatherings, taking time to get out of the house, and keeping conversations light and fun—sometimes the best advice is: “Don’t talk politics, just drink wine.” Whether it’s savoring a flight of unique varietals or strolling the vineyard, this episode is your guide to a relaxed, flavorful winter escape in Western North Carolina.
Guest & Host Links:- Souther Williams Vineyard: https://southerwilliams.com/ - Lion & the Rose Bed and Breakfast: https://lion-rose.com/ - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Exploring Louisiana’s Historic River Road

In this on-location episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, hosts Terri and Ron Guthrie explore the River Road region of Louisiana, uncovering the fascinating history, plantations, and cultural significance that line the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
They visit and discuss some of the area’s most iconic sites including Destrehan Plantation — the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi River Valley — and Oak Alley Plantation, world-famous for its stunning canopy of oak trees and rich history. The conversation also highlights Houmas House and the Great River Road Museum, which presents an unfiltered look at Louisiana’s complex and layered past.
Throughout the episode, Terri and Ron reflect on the beauty of the Mississippi River, its impact on commerce and culture, and how its story is interwoven with the development of Louisiana’s plantations and small towns. The region’s culinary traditions, from rice and sugar production to modern-day Southern cuisine, also take center stage.
✨ As the conversation unfolds, it was discovered that their River Road journey followed part of the historic Jefferson Highway, a transcontinental route connecting Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans. The highway was officially established in November 1915 during a meeting in New Orleans, led by Edwin T. Meredith of Iowa with representatives from across the Louisiana Purchase states. Their vision created what became known as “The Palms to Pines Highway.”
This month marks the 115th anniversary of that historic meeting — making it the perfect time to celebrate the Jefferson Highway’s ongoing connection to the people, heritage, and landscapes of Louisiana’s River Road region.
🦆 With November being National Rice Awareness Month, this episode also touches on the area’s rice-growing history, which helped shape the region’s economy and cuisine.
🌐 Plan Your Visit- Houmas House and Gardens – https://www.houmashouse.com/ - Great River Road Museum – https://greatriverroadmuseum.org/ - Oak Alley Plantation – https://www.oakalleyplantation.com/ - Destrehan Plantation – https://www.destrehanplantation.org/ - Visit Ascension Parish – https://visitlasweetspot.com/ - Louisiana’s River Parishes – https://lariverparishes.com/tourist-commission/ - Visit Jefferson Parish – https://www.visitjeffersonparish.com/ 
🎧 New episodes of "Travel with Terri" air on Tuesdays: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 
✨ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Road Trip Radio,” “Vacation Station,” “Way Back When,” and “Jefferson Highway” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Jim Hinckley on “Route 66 100 Years” – Celebrating the Mother Road’s Legacy

In this engaging episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Road Trip Radio," Route 66 expert and author Jim Hinckley takes us on a nostalgic and insightful journey down America’s most famous highway — the legendary Route 66. Jim’s latest book, “Route 66: 100 Years,” (Quarto, November 4, 2026) commemorates a century of this iconic road with stories, photographs, and essays that capture the spirit, history, and heart of “America’s Main Street.”
From the evolution of roadside attractions and the role of the military to the resurgence of road-tripping culture, Jim explores how Route 66 has become a living time capsule — connecting generations and travelers from around the world. He also shares insights on how to engage younger generations in preserving this enduring piece of Americana.
Learn more about Jim Hinckley and his work:- https://jimhinckleysamerica.com/ 
📘 "Route 66: 100 Years" takes readers state-by-state through the highway’s eight historic routes — from Illinois to California — featuring stunning imagery, memorabilia, maps, and essays by local experts. Get your kicks and your history fix with this must-have book for every traveler and road trip enthusiast! Check it out: https://www.quarto.com/books/9780760391488/route-66 
🎧 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 network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Exploring Key West: History, Haunts, and the Conch Republic

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station" Travel Show features travel writer and author Kathleen Walls, publisher of American Roads and Global Highways, who takes listeners on a lively journey through Key West, Florida, the southernmost city in the United States. 
From the colorful history of the Conch Republic and the six-toed cats of the Hemingway Home and Museum, to ghostly legends, historic cemeteries, and culinary favorites like Key Lime Pie and conch fritters, this conversation captures the island’s quirky charm and fascinating culture.
Read Kathleen’s accompanying article, “Key West: The Southernmost U.S. City,” here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/key-west-the-southernmost-us-city/  
Learn more about Kathleen's books and travels:- https://americanroads.net/  - https://katywalls.com/  
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Way Back When” and “Big Daily Blend” Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

Make Yountville Your Next Napa Valley Getaway

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" with travel writer Debbie Stone focuses on her enchanting experience exploring Yountville, the heart of Napa Valley.
From the breathtaking views of hot air ballooning over the vineyards to the vibrant art scene, world-class dining, and rich local history, Debbie paints a vivid portrait of this charming California village. The conversation also highlights Hotel Yountville’s luxurious accommodations, Julia Child’s lasting culinary influence, and the region’s incredible wine culture, offering travelers inspiration for their next Napa Valley getaway.
📖 Read Debbie’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/make-yountville-your-next-napa-valley-getaway/ 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Discovering Saint John in New Brunswick: History, Culture & Natural Wonders

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes listeners on an exploration of Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada’s first incorporated city. From its stunning Victorian architecture and vibrant Area 506 entertainment district—crafted from refurbished shipping containers—to the geological marvels of the Stonehammer Geopark and the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy, Saint John offers an unforgettable blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty.
The conversation also highlights the city’s British and French influences, the family-friendly educational experiences that travel provides, and the dynamic Canadian music scene that reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Whether you’re drawn to heritage, science, or the arts, Saint John is a destination that invites discovery.
🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by travel:👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648 
🗺️ Lisa’s Saint John, New Brunswick Travel Articles:* Saint John: Canada’s First Incorporated City – https://www.travelworldmagazine.com/2023/09/st-john-new-brunswick-canada-first-incorporated-city * Exploration and Enlightenment in Saint John, New Brunswick – https://rovology.com/canada/exploration-and-enlightenment-in-saint-john-new-brunswick/ 
📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans 
📅 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 Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels! Listen to more Big Blend Radio episodes: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork