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The Adventure begins when you reach into your pocket. Each U.S. Mint Commemorative Quarter design tells a unique story. Each quarter is filled with pride, from hometown heroes to iconic landmarks; wildlife and nature to music and culture. Reach into your pocket and let Quarter Miles Travel take it from there, we’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.

  1. 12/13/2025

    Switzerland - A closer look

    Destination:  Switzerland A Closer Look Hello, hello, hello and welcome aboard travel with annita & friends.  Glad to have you here with me today for a show to take a look at our expectations when we travel and how we find countries we visit are not so different from what we experience at home.  When we travel, we often imagine we’re slipping out the side door of our own country’s troubles—leaving behind the social tensions, the political noise, the racial debates that feel stitched into our daily lives here in the U.S. We like to think that stepping onto foreign soil means stepping into a different mindset entirely, as if other places operate outside the gravity of the issues we wrestle with at home. But the truth—well, it travels, too. Every city, every village, every postcard-perfect destination carries its own history, its own blind spots, its own deeply rooted ideas about identity, race, and belonging. And sometimes, the very conversations we think we’ve left behind come and tap us on the shoulder in the most unexpected places. That’s exactly what happened to me in Switzerland. On a recent trip to Bern, I toured the “Resistances: On Dealing with Racism” exhibit at the Bern Historical Museum with guide and curator Dian Mezic. What I expected to be a straightforward walk-through turned into something much deeper—an honest look at Switzerland’s own cultural attitudes and the legacies that shape them. At the center of our conversation was an alphabet mural taken from a local grade school—an innocent teaching tool on the surface, but one that carried some very loaded imagery. Three letters, three drawings, each representing non-white people in ways many today recognize as racist. C for “Chinese.” I for the Indigenous person of the Americas. N for the Black person. Those images had hung on a school wall for seventy years. Yes, you heard me – seventy years.  In the exhibit, the figures were deliberately marked through—both to avoid offending visitors and to signal that these depictions are not acceptable—but their presence sparked something powerful. Visitors were encouraged to talk, to question, to watch videos, to explore how such portrayals survived for decades, and what that says about Switzerland’s own racial history. This wasn’t just a lesson in art or education. It was a reminder that every nation, no matter how neutral its reputation, carries its own complex story about race and identity. And often, those stories echo more closely with our own than we’d like to admit. Today, you’ll hear my conversation with Dian Mezic—an insightful, eye-opening look at how one mural has opened a national dialogue, and how travel can reveal truths we don’t always expect to find. Segment two Travel is not just about seeing what’s different in the destinations we visit… it’s also about recognizing our similarities. The things we share. The histories and attitudes that show up in unexpected places, reminding us that no country is untouched by the conversations we’re having at home. Welcome back to Travel With Annita. As we continue our conversation with Bern Historical Museum curator Dian Mezic, we’re taking a closer look at the mural at the heart of the “Resistances” exhibit. What seemed like a simple alphabet chart turned out to hold seventy years’ worth of assumptions, stereotypes, and silent lessons passed down to generations of schoolchildren. In this segment, Dian walks us through the imagery itself— how C was illustrated as a caricature of Chinese identity, how I reduced Indigenous peoples of the Americas to a stereotype, and how N portrayed Black identity using old colonial imagery. These weren’t just letters on a wall—they were reflections of how a society once viewed the world, and in many ways, how it taught children to see it. So let’s continue the conversation and take a closer look at what those images reveal. Segment three How does a national debate begin? Welcome back to Travel With Annita and Friends. I ask that question because sometimes the spark isn’t a speech, a protest, or a headline. Sometimes it’s something far quieter… something hiding in plain sight. Like a mural that stood on a school wall for seventy years—unchallenged, unexamined, and untouched by the conversations swirling everywhere else. How does a piece of art like that survive decades without anyone questioning its impact? How does something loaded with silent meaning—images that shape how children see themselves and the world—manage to stand the test of time without raising so much as an eyebrow? And then, just like that, media attention sweeps in. The winds of change pick up. Suddenly, what was once accepted as normal becomes the center of a national reckoning. A mural becomes a mirror. A debate is born. In this next segment, we dive deeper into how public attention transformed this long-ignored artwork into a catalyst for reflection, conversation, and cultural change in Switzerland. And how a quiet classroom image became the spark for something much bigger. Segment Four For our final stop in Switzerland, we’re stepping into a place where the past and the present, the traditional and the emerging, all converge in one remarkable cultural hub. Welcome back to Travel With Annita and Friends. Just beyond the Lausanne train station lies Plateforme 10—a sprawling arts district built on what was once a bustling railway yard. Trains once carried people, goods, and stories across Switzerland from this spot. Today, Plateforme 10 carries something just as important: conversations. Conversations about identity, culture, representation, and the evolving face of Swiss society. What makes Plateforme 10 so compelling is that it isn’t simply a collection of museums. It’s a curated space where Switzerland is taking a thoughtful look at itself—its history, its artistic expressions, and the voices that have too often been missing from the narrative. Exhibits here challenge traditional imagery, question long-held assumptions, and elevate perspectives that broaden our understanding of what Swiss culture includes. You’ll find photography that highlights marginalized communities, contemporary art that celebrates difference rather than smooths it over, and installations that ask visitors to consider who shapes cultural memory—and who gets left out of the frame. The district invites visitors to slow down, look closer, and recognize how diversity, inclusion, and social identity are shaping Switzerland’s cultural future. Plateforme 10 reminds us that travel isn’t just about the places we explore—it’s about the ideas we encounter. It’s about noticing how a country expresses its values, and how art becomes a bridge between who we were, who we are, and who we’re becoming. So let’s take a closer look at Plateforme 10 and discover how this reimagined railway yard is helping Switzerland expand its cultural landscape with creativity, openness, and intention. Where to Eat Near Plateforme 10 1. Le Nabi (inside Plateforme 10) Modern, artsy, and convenient. Fresh, seasonal dishes with a relaxed café vibe. Perfect for lunch before wandering the exhibits. Take the Metro to the Olympic Museum Yes, Lausanne is the Olympic capital. The museum is interactive and beautifully curated — great for adults and kids. Photos Take a look at the photos the mural. The black and white photo is before the three letters were blacken in protest during the national debate.

    41 min

  2. 12/13/2025

    Destination: Let’s Go To Bern, Switzerland

    Destination: Let’s Go To Bern, Switzerland Come along to hear all about Switzerland historic and beautiful city of Bern. From cobblestone streets with fascinating history to Jazz music and delicious food, this show shares it all.

    41 min

  3. 07/31/2025

    Destination: New Orleans – Culture, Cuisine and Music

    Glad you’re here for a replay of New Orleans Culture Cuisine and Music. This was an exciting show to produce. I once lived in New Orleans and visiting again after several years was a real treat to wander around familiar places. Here’s the transcript from the show.  Click above to listen. Hello, hello, hello and welcome aboard Travel With Annita, where we explore the stories behind the world’s most fascinating destinations — and today, we’re heading somewhere special. A place of history, heart, grit, and music that practically spills out onto the street — we’re going to New Orleans, Louisiana. Now, I’ve always said, New Orleans isn’t just a city — it’s an experience, one of those rare places that feels alive, as if the sidewalks remember every step taken and every song ever played. The history of New Orleans is as rich and layered as a good bowl of gumbo — and trust me, it’s just as flavorful. Let’s take it back to the beginning. The year was 1718 — over 300 years ago. A French-Canadian explorer named Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville planted the flag along the Mississippi River and founded La Nouvelle-Orléans — that’s “New Orleans” in French, of course — named after Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. But even before Bienville showed up, the land belonged to Native American tribes — the Chitimacha, Houma, and others — who lived along the Mississippi and its bayous. The river was their source of life, just like it remains for the city today. Bienville and the French saw potential in this low-lying crescent of land — hence the nickname “The Crescent City.” But let me tell you, they also inherited a whole lot of headaches — swamps, hurricanes, disease, and mosquitoes the size of small birds. Yet, they stayed, and they built. The French weren’t the only ones with their eyes on this prize. In 1763, after the Seven Years’ War, the city passed into Spanish hands. For nearly 40 years, the Spanish ruled, and they’re the reason so much of the French Quarter actually reflects Spanish architecture — those ornate iron balconies, pastel colors, quiet courtyards with trickling fountains — it’s all part of the Spanish legacy. During that time, two devastating fires nearly wiped out the city — one in 1788, and another in 1794. But like New Orleans always does, it rose from the ashes, rebuilt with resilience, and added more character to its streets. By 1803, the French briefly regained control of Louisiana, only to turn around and sell it to the United States in what’s still one of the most significant real estate deals in history — the Louisiana Purchase. Now, I want you to picture this — at the stroke of a pen, the U.S. doubled in size, and New Orleans suddenly belonged to a new country. But let me tell you, the people of New Orleans? They didn’t just toss out their old ways and say, “Sure, let’s be American now.” Oh no, they clung to their French, Spanish, and African roots, their language, their food, their customs — and that stubborn independence still flavors the city today. New Orleans quickly became one of the most important port cities in the world. The Mississippi River was the superhighway of the 18th and 19th centuries, carrying cotton, sugar, and goods right down to the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. That river made fortunes — and it also brought waves of new people. French settlers, Spanish colonists, enslaved Africans, free people of color, Germans, Irish immigrants, Haitians — they all came, willingly or otherwise — and together, they created the cultural gumbo New Orleans is famous for. And that word, “gumbo” — it’s more than a stew; it’s a perfect metaphor for the city. African okra, French roux, Spanish spices — mixed together in one pot, simmered, and shared. And, here’s a little trivia…did you know gumbo is French for okra Just like the music, the food, and the people. Of course, the history isn’t all romance and jazz. New Orleans has seen its share of hardship — slavery, war, segregation, hurricanes — yet through it all, the city has an uncanny ability to dance through the storm. Literally. By the early 1800s, Congo Square — right outside the French Quarter — became the only place in the South where enslaved Africans were allowed to gather publicly on Sundays. There, they danced, played drums, sang songs from their homelands — blending African rhythms with European instruments. Some historians say that’s the cradle of American music — where jazz was born. And let’s not forget — during the 19th century, New Orleans was the largest city in the South. It was rowdy, wealthy, diverse, and unlike anywhere else in the country. The architecture, the cuisine, the language — even the legal system, based on Napoleonic code — all reflected its European roots more than typical American towns. Fast-forward to the 20th century, and New Orleans gave us jazz, the first truly American music. Louis Armstrong, one of the most influential musicians of all time, was born and raised right here in New Orleans. The brass bands, the parades, the street performers — they’re not for show. They’re part of the lifeblood of the city. But New Orleans isn’t just music and Mardi Gras — though believe me, both are unforgettable. It’s also resilience. Hurricanes have battered this city, with Katrina in 2005 being the most devastating in modern memory. But in true New Orleans fashion, the city picked up the pieces — slowly, painfully — and carried on, proud, determined, and maybe with an even stronger sense of self. And here’s something that always strikes me — in New Orleans, history isn’t behind glass in a museum. It walks the streets with you. It’s in the creak of old wooden floors, the aroma of red beans and rice simmering on a stove, the sound of a trumpet wailing in the night. You can’t help but feel it — that deep, enduring soul that says, “We’ve been through it all, but we’re still here. And we’ve still got music to play, food to share, and stories to tell.” Alright, folks—if you’ve wandered the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, dodged a few beads, and maybe had one too many beignets—you’ve likely strolled right past one of the best-kept gems in New Orleans history: The Historic New Orleans Collection, tucked right there on Royal Street. Now, don’t let the word “collection” fool you. This isn’t some dusty room full of knickknacks your Aunt Irene might keep. This is a living, breathing archive of everything that’s made New Orleans…well, New Orleans. The history, the art, the scandal, the culture—the good, the bad, and the jazzy. Let’s start with how it all began. Back in 1966, General L. Kemper Williams and his wife Leila—two locals with a serious love for preserving Louisiana’s legacy—decided to do something about it. They didn’t just collect antiques or family heirlooms. No, they went after rare maps, priceless manuscripts, historic paintings, Mardi Gras treasures, and even old jazz records. Basically, they gathered everything that tells the wild story of this city. Fast forward to today—their passion project has grown into what we now call The Historic New Orleans Collection or THNOC, with a campus spread across several beautifully restored French Quarter buildings, dating as far back as 1792. The architecture is truly New Orleans – You know the French Quarter: wrought-iron balconies, lush courtyards—it’s like walking onto a movie set, but this place? It’s the real deal. And here’s what makes it a must-visit—besides the fact that admission is absolutely free, which in New Orleans is about as rare as finding a parking spot. Inside, you’ll find the Louisiana History Galleries, thirteen of them to be exact, taking you on a deep dive from Native American life before the Europeans arrived, all the way through French and Spanish colonial rule, the Louisiana Purchase, the Civil War, up to Hurricane Katrina and beyond. Artifacts? They’ve got ‘em. You’ll see an original letter discussing the Louisiana Purchase, 18th-century musical scores from the Ursuline nuns, and historic Mardi Gras costumes that make today’s parade outfits look downright subtle. We always ask about ghost stories when visiting the Big Easy …. And there’s no shortage of ghost stories around these old buildings. This is New Orleans, after all. But hey, even if history class wasn’t your favorite back in the day, I promise THNOC keeps it lively, accessible, and downright fascinating. You’ll walk away with a new appreciation for how this city came to be—and maybe a stronger sense of just how much gumbo, grit, and gumption it took to get here. I recently had a chance to visit The Historic New Orleans Collection while a steel pan event was taking place. Not only was this location a true gift to visit, but the steel pans we phenomenal. I will have more about that in an upcoming show.  While there I sat down with Amanda McFillen, Director of Audience Engagement. I asked about the center and also who they got involved with the fabulous steel drums event which you’ll hear in the back ground. Amanda shares how Royal Street’s got a lot of glitter, but this is where the gold is—the stories, the people, the roots of a city that’s seen it all and still throws the best party on Earth. Stick around, folks—coming up next, we dive into the top ten things you’ve got to see and do in New Orleans. Spoiler alert: some come with a side of jazz, history, or powdered sugar. Amanda McFillen Director of Audience Engagement over at The Historic New Orleans Collection on Royal street  So that’s New Orleans — founded by the French, molded by the Spanish, shaped by Africans, Haitians, immigrants, and indigenous people — stitched together by history, hardship, and celebration. Coming up next, I’ll t

    41 min

  4. 07/31/2025

    Destination: North Carolina, Georgia, Maryland and Alabama

    Destination: North Carolina, Georgia, Maryland and Alabama Great American States Glad you’re here to have a replay of Destination:  North Carolina, Georgia, Maryland and Alabama.  Four amazing states with so much to see and do. Learn more about the history and how today we can find exciting getaways for family fun. Transcript is below:  Hello, hello, hello and welcome aboard Travel with Annita & friends.  This is the show where stories travel far and wide—and today, we’re headed straight into the heart of the American South and beyond. Come along with me ‘cause we’re rollin’ through four powerhouse states: from the sweet sounds and smoky BBQ of North Carolina, down to Georgia where peaches, porch swings, and purpose meet. We’re making a soulful stop in Alabama, steeped in history and hospitality, then heading up the coast to Maryland—where crab cakes, culture, and coastal charm await. Each state has a voice, a rhythm, and a rich story to tell—and we’re bringing it all to the mic. So buckle up, because it’s time to explore the flavors, folks, and fantastic finds of the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Let’s hit the road together—you know how we like to do things here on Travel With Annita – dig in and make all the connections – and it starts right now.” This is where the past meets the present, and every journey tells a story. I’m your host, and today we’re diving into the rich cultural roots and vibrant rhythms of four iconic American states — each with its own legacy, flavor, and heartbeat. First up, North Carolina — from the highlands of the Blue Ridge to the hush of the Outer Banks, this state shine and sings with old-time music, Black Wall Street legacies, and barbecue traditions that are both sacred and smoky. We’ll dig into the deep roots of Tar Heel history and meet the makers keeping culture alive. One of the fastest growing cities in North Carolina is Charlotte from it’s beginnings in 1768 to today, where it continues to answer to the name  the Queen City, – named after the wife of King George III – I know, I know that was a long time ago, but the city holds on to it’s history and legacy. It becomes a banking and business center where finance is part of the city’s fiber.   You can come to Charlotte without a is it to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Yep, that’s where you’ll find it along with the history and stories of it’s wild and fierce beginnings.  The Hall of Fame is a 150,000 square foot facility where visitors can trace the story – the history, the people and cars who made stock car racing one of America’s favorite sports and pastimes.  And if you’re in town when the action is hot and heavy on the track – you can catch it IRL – that’s in real life at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.   For a close up view head over to Hendrick Motorsports complex where you can get a close up look at their popular racing teams, the cars, trophies and memorabilia.   Charlotte is calling your name – charlottesgotalot.com Now we can’t talk North Carolina without pulling in the city know for great beer, arts and crafts and free and relaxed lifestyle.  That would be Asheville, and should also include great restaurants are there too.  Head downtown where you’ll find the action.  Check out the Asheville women’s museum, Lexington Glassworks and over on the Blue Ridge Parkway you’ll find the boarding house where author Thomas Wolfe spent many years during his youth.   You’re in the heart of Appalachia so check out the Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center.  You’ll find demonstrations and things to see and purchase.   Visit the largest and most celebrated private estate – the Biltmore Estate – it’s open to the public. It was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II from 1889 to 1895.  Today you can also visit the estate’s vineyard, restaurant and of course touring the home. And, if you’re looking for an exquisite holiday experience…. Come for the holidays for extreme Christmas decorating.  But… the home is spectacular at time of the year.   Ready to visit Asheville – exploreashville.com I can’t mentioned North Carolina without including the Outer Banks.  There are some places that are super special to you and no matter how many times you go, it always feels a little like the first time and a whole lot like coming home.  The 200 mile long stretch of barrier islands is very unique and filled with opportunities to enjoy the beach, delicious seafood, fishing, boating enjoying the changing sands along the dunes. But… I can’t send you over to the outer banks without suggesting a journey along the lighthouse trail.  The outer banks is known as the ship graveyard of the Atlantic. And, it didn’t get that name by chance. The rough seas have seen a lot and so have those working and living along the shores.  Lighthouses, led many ships home and were a beckon of hope to those fighting the waves, wind and foggy skies. The fascinating city names will capture your interest – Cape Hatteras, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk, Currituck and my favorite is Kill Devil Hill – it the spot where the Wright Brothers took the first flight.  There’s a museum and memorial there.  Gotta check it out. Visit the website – www.outerbanks.org North Carolina… there’s something special there and a state that stretches from the application mountains to the Atlantic Ocean has something for everyone.   Before I take a break… I’ve got a bit of trivia for you.  1712 – the year North and South Carolina split as the colony was believed to have grown too large to function under a single governor Did you know gold is the state mineral A museum in Durham is dedicated to tubas…How about that.  I’ll stop here but when I come back we’re heading South… to Georgia. It’s our home state. And, I’ve got not only a bit of history and trivia about our beloved state, but also upcoming events. So get ready to take notes… I’ll be back in a few minutes, here on travel with annita & friends.  It’s our home state and Georgia is always on our mind. From the rolling hills to the coastal shores, Georgia is always calling.  Welcome back to travel with annita & friends.  As we roll into Georgia, where civil rights still stir the conversations and the red clay is never far away, and we can truly feel the pulse of Atlanta where there is innovation in many industries and the home of business leaders who are making their mark and creating their own path to success. Moving south, you’ll go to one of my favorite cities in the world.  Savannah the city which holds a very strong story of history but also soul and charm. Down on the coast are barrier islands. From well known Jekyll where you’ll find the spectacular driftwood beach and St. Simon island – beautiful homes and golf course to St. Catherines where you’re free to stroll the shorelines, Ossabaw with it’s wild hogs and donkeys, Cumberland where wild horses run free.  And, of course there is  From the spirituals of the Gullah-Geechee coast to the sweet heat of peach country, Georgia’s always had a story to tell — and we’re here to listen.  It’s the peach state – Georgia earned its nickname as “The Peach State” thanks to a mix of ideal climate, smart farming, and good ol’ Southern branding — even if South Carolina actually produces more peaches some years (but…. We don’t tell anyone that part). Here’s the peach story in a nutshell: The Origins Peaches aren’t native to Georgia — they originated in China and were brought to the Americas by explorers as early as the 1600’s and by the 1700s, peaches were growing in the South, but it wasn’t until the late 1800s that Georgia started turning peaches into big business. In 1856, a Belgian father-and-son pair, Louis and Prosper Berckmans, purchased a plot of orchard land in Augusta, Ga. And named it Fruitland. They planned to show that fruit and ornamental plants could become just as important an industry in the South as cotton, which was ruining the soil with its intensive planting. The soil was perfect and now enters the Elberta peach which is a true Georgia peach.  This peach helped turn Georgia into a national name in peach production. Peaches began to be shipped long distances without spoiling — opening up markets in the North and beyond. Railroads were key. As Georgia’s rail lines expanded, peaches could reach markets across the country, and the state leaned into peach marketing hard. By the 1920s, the fruit had become both a cash crop and a cultural icon. Even if other states sometimes outgrow it, Georgia’s peaches are prized for their flavor and quality — thanks to the state’s red clay soil and warm, sunny days with cool nights. The peach became a symbol of Georgia hospitality, sweetness, and resilience. By the mid-20th century, Georgia was branded so successfully as “The Peach State” that it stuck — and you’ll find peaches on everything from license plates to state quarter designs. Bonus Fact: Atlanta’s obsession with “Peachtree” (as in Peachtree Street, Peachtree Road, Peachtree Everything) is less about actual peach trees and more about Creek Indian words, but the branding synergy was too good to pass up. There are so many things to see and do around our great state. From Athens where you’ll find UGA to Macon where native american history can be found I the mounds around the city, down to LaGrange and West Point where industry offers jobs to many.  And, down to the barrier island – Sapelo where history connects both sugar and cotton and the Gullah Geechee culture still lives.   You can hike, swim, golf  – you have a long list of things to do outdoors.  Coming up at Callaway’s Garden Labor Day weekend brings ad unforgettable way to say goodbye to the summer.  Friday Aug 29 – Sept.  guests can enjoy four

    41 min

  5. 06/14/2025

    Destination: AVA Resort Cancun, Mexico

    AVA Resort Cancun All inclusive and all about the time of your life During a recent trip to AVA Resort Cancun I had an amazing time filled with all the things I enjoy and most especially – an all inclusive experience. This property is ultra-luxury set along a secluded stretch of Cancún’s Hotel Zone, just a 10-minute drive from the airport. It is one of the largest new resorts in Cancún (1,600+ oceanfront suites), built around a dramatic, sail-inspired “let’s dive in” pools and lagoon. Just standing on your room balcony you feel the call to come and relax by the pool or glide along the lagoon on a paddle board. Every room, suite, and villa boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces overlooking the Caribbean and standard rooms have a spacious layouts (~463 sq ft interior + 108 sq ft terrace), smart TVs, Nespresso machines, spa tubs, and plush robes. Are you feeling the luxury.   If you’d like to extend your luxury experience, you may choose suites and villas ranging from Family & Friends Suites with living zones, daybeds, and plunge pools, to grand Panoramic Villas with multiple bedrooms, kitchens, spa tubs, and butler service. There is something for everyone to say, “yes, please!” Cuisine – oh, yes. When I travel I want to try the local cuisine and I especially like finding the creative and inspiring options where chefs have taken their local specialities a “creative step” further. At AVA Resort Cancun there are 17 bars and restaurants each with a global flair – from modern Mexican at Copal and hand-rolled tacos to Mediterranean (Livo), Peruvian (Aji), Italian (Veranda), French (Chez Moi), teppanyaki (Kita & Minami), and gourmet buffet markets. Something for your the tastes you have been craving and also finding something new and delicious.  Any nighttime entertainment must be filled with the unique and special AVA Resort vibe and you’ll find just that around the property –  the sleek digital-art display at Digit NFT Bar, swanky Cocktail Bar, lively swim-up bars, a whiskey lounge, speakeasy, and nighttime club life – it’s all there. When talking about cuisine, I can’t leave off spots where a simple relaxing bite becomes an extra-special moment in your day with a gourmet ice cream cone at Konos and freshly baked pastries options at Aroma coffee shop. All good, all delicious.  Fill the day with water activities right on property.  A 2.8-acre sustainable saltwater lagoon for paddleboarding, kayaking, floating cabanas—and uses 50× less energy and 100× fewer chemicals than typical pools.  How’s that for conservation. Your choice of pools includes adult-only, family-friendly, swim-up bar pools, and a vibrant waterpark for younger guests. While were on the subject of family and bringing along the kids, the Kid’s Club with  crafts and water fun; Teen Lounge with bowling, AR games means kids are free (and safe) to have their own fun while mom and dad have their day too.  One day I spent most of the day in the luxe spa having an experience that could only be topped by doing it all over again.  A full hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, mud room, facials, and indulgent treatments in VIP cabins. Yes, please. And, for those of you who like to workout on vacation, the state-of-the-art fitness center has everything you need from group classes like yoga, Pilates, spin and more. It’s your day, work at making it the best. I can’t leave off shopping. It there for more than souvenirs. Did you forget an important item – you’ll find it in one of the shops. Everything for swimwear to fine jewelry. AVA Resort Cancun offers a stunningly modern, fully oceanfront all-inclusive experience with luxe accommodations, an upscale culinary scene, an eco-lagoon centerpiece, and entertainment for all ages. It’s your ideal spot for your next family getaway, girlfriends gathering, guy trip or with your special someone.

    41 min

  6. 05/04/2025

    Destination: Fleeting Moments – Pan Am Memories

    Fleeting Moments Pan Am Memories Here’s a story that will capture your heart and definitely your interest. Fleeting Moments of Pan Am Memories written by Michelle da Silva Richmond captures her story torn between two lovers with Pan Am as your backdrop. On this show I’m taking a walk down memory lane and going back to not only my days as a Pan American World Airways flight attendant, but my guest Michelle de Silva Richmond will share her memories too. I’ve been asked what was it like working for Pan Am…. The airline is known for so many aviation firsts and the legendary airline is often used in movies, photos of stewardess and stewards during earlier days. But the question what was working for Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) like? Well, that was glamour on wings. It was the golden age of jet travel, and Pan Am wasn’t just an airline—it was a cultural icon. Think: tailored uniforms, five-course meals, multiple meals services, even in coach, and stewardesses fluent in multiple languages, gliding down the aisles like airborne ambassadors. And for those of us working as stewardess, Stewards and flight attendants – Appearance mattered—big time. Height, weight, age – especially in the earlier years was a determining factor in not only being hired, but also how long you worked. In the earlier Pan Am days, stewardess resigned once they were married. Being poised  was all part of the job description. But, it wasn’t just about the glamour, make no mistake, we were well trained in safety and emergency procedures.  Michelle and I lived a dream life, filled with adventure, meeting extraordinary people, learning about different cultures and food – and of course there was love. Michelle shares her story. Michelle has been a freelance travel writer for many years. Travel has always been in her blood. She was raised in different countries from the age of two. Her father’s career took them to many countries. Travel was in her blood for sure. She was always interested in writing. She worked for Pan Am starting in 1970’s and worked with the airline traveling to South & Central America, the Caribbean and Europe. After Pan Am she wanted to keep traveling and write about experiences. She has co-authored and contributed to guidebooks. She was the travel editor of an English language paper in Mexico City where she lived for 20 years. She also writes for several online and print publications as a freelancer. Next she is off to Cancun to update hotels details and later in the year she is taking a Viking cruise and venturing off to Portugal. Here’s a little more about Pan Am: Training was intense. Flight attendants learned emergency procedures, but also fine wine service, etiquette, and international customs. Travel perks? Unreal. Wr globe-trotted to exotic places—Tokyo, Rome, Nairobi—on a company pass. It was freedom with a paycheck and a ticket to see the world.  Culture of prestige. Being a Pan Am stewardess was so iconic that Hollywood and Madison Avenue practically made us celebrities. And, we were welcomed around the world,  Pilots, were called Gods of the sky. In the book Skygods: The Fall of Pan Am by Robert Gandt, he shares how Pan Am pilots were admired. His book  delves into the history and decline of Pan American World Airways. The term “Skygods” in the title refers to the airline’s pilots, who were often regarded with a near-mythical status during the golden age of aviation. Pan Am captains were among the best-trained and best-paid in the world, and they were very often military veterans. They flew glamorous long-haul international routes on the cutting-edge Boeing 747—the “Queen of the Skies,” which Pan Am introduced in 1970. Headquarters in the Pan Am Building in New York was not just a based of international activity, the building was a landmark, sitting at 200 Park Avenue, directly above Grand Central Terminal, right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The Pan Am Building was one of the largest office buildings in the world and an unmistakable part of the New York skyline. The Pan Am logo, perched at the top in massive illuminated letters, became an international symbol of prestige and jet-set travel. The building remains – but today the Pan Am logo is gone and replaced by Met life From its start on October 19, 1927 by Juan Trippe, a Yale-educated aviation entrepreneur with a taste for expansion was set on taking the airline to the world with Clipper Flying Boats. The first trip was a short hop from Key West, Florida to Havana, Cuba—mainly to deliver U.S. mail. That’s right, way before it UPS. Maybe we can call it a tropical UPS starting delivery service in the 1920’s. Pan Am was America to many around the world. It was the unofficial flag carrier of the U.S. The airline struggled with rising fuel costs, and deregulation beginning in the late ’70s and struggle to stay alive.  Pan American World Airways officially ceased operations on December 4, 1991, at approximately 9:04 a.m. Eastern Time. That morning, after 64 years of service, Pan Am shut its doors for good. Pan Am flight 436, from Bridgetown, Barbados to Miami, landed at 6:45 a.m., becoming the airline’s final flight. The shutdown came after a long financial tailspin, fueled by several major events: The Lockerbie bombing (1988) The loss of its profitable Pacific routes An ill-fated merger with National Airlines The Gulf War’s impact on international travel And a last-ditch deal with Delta Air Lines, which fell apart just before the collapse The airline’s wings were clipped and not with a bang, but with heartbreak—employees crying at ticket counters, loyal travelers stunned, and a legend grounded for good. I know about the crying. I was one of those employees on December 4th stranded and crying at Miami International Airport instead of on my way to London Heathrow Airport. Pan Am’s flights around the world may have landed for good, but the legend never dies – Pan Am held significance not only as an aviation icon but also as a cultural icon, with its aviation history intricately linked to numerous culturally significant events. The airline played a role in transporting film stars and even featured its Clipper jets in movies. During WWII the US Govt. leaned heavily on Pan Am for not only transportation but military intelligence. The first around-the-world flights were Pan Am.  The airline was the first to offer computerized reservation systems and launched the jumbo aircraft  it was known for – the  Boeing 747 in 1970.  Pan Am also served as a means of transportation for presidents and politicians and was involved in humanitarian efforts like ‘Operation Babylift,’ which involved the evacuation of more than 3,000 infants from Vietnam. This year marks the 50 year anniversary of this important humanitarian and life-changing event. And, back to the question what was it like working for Pan Am  – it was like being part of a jet-setting secret society. We  had the best view. It was a worldview from our office at 35,000 feet in the sky.

    41 min

  7. 05/04/2025

    Destination: Off The Beaten Path Islands

    Off The Beaten Path Islands With over tourism becoming a trendy topic, now is the time to explore off the beaten path islands for your next trip.  Here’s Travel With Annita’s list of four islands, ready for  your special trip – are you going solo, family, couples or with a group of friends. These four places—Little Corn Island (Nicaragua), Holbox (Mexico), Robinson Crusoe Island (Chile), and Edisto Island (South Carolina, USA)—are all off-the-radar gems with wildly different personalities. Here’s a quick rundown of each: Get ready for your adventure with these off the beaten path islands. Little Corn Island, Nicaragua Vibe: Rustic Caribbean castaway fantasy No cars—you get around on foot or bicycle. Blissfully quiet. Pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and killer snorkeling/diving (especially at Blowing Rock). Electricity used to be spotty—still minimal but reliable enough for travelers now. Fresh lobster for under $10? Yes, please. Stay: Yemaya Reefs (luxury); Grace’s Cool Spot (budget charm). Eat: Café Desideri (Italian/seafood fusion), Tranquilo Café (cocktails + chill vibe). Isla Holbox, Mexico Vibe: Boho beach with Instagram flair Famous for bioluminescent waters and swimming with whale sharks (May–September). No paved roads—golf carts and bikes only. Stunning murals, hammocks in the sea, and laid-back charm. Stay: Casa Las Tortugas (boutique luxe), Hotel Mawimbi (beachfront quiet). Eat: Roots for lobster pizza, Painapol for smoothie bowls. Heads-up: Sargassum seaweed rarely affects Holbox, unlike Cancun or Tulum. Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile Vibe: Wild, remote, and dramatic Part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago, 400 miles off the Chilean coast. Real-life inspiration for the Daniel Defoe novel, after sailor Alexander Selkirk was marooned there. Amazing hiking, endemic wildlife, and diving (especially shipwrecks). Only accessible by charter flight or boat—true off-grid adventure. Stay: Crusoe Island Lodge (eco-luxury), locals also offer homestays. Eat: Expect simple Chilean fare—fresh fish, goat cheese, and rustic island stews.   Edisto Island, South Carolina Vibe: Southern charm meets coastal calm A quiet Lowcountry treasure—no chain restaurants, no crowds. Known for Loggerhead turtle nesting, live oaks, and moss-draped history. Visit Botany Bay Plantation, a surreal boneyard beach + historic preserve. Stay: The Club at Edisto (condos); VRBO beach houses are popular. Eat: Whaley’s (seafood shack charm), The SeaCow Eatery (Southern breakfast heaven). Ideal for kayaking, biking, beach combing, and pure unplugged peace. Each island gives you a different kind of escape—Holbox is trendy and photogenic, Little Corn is barefoot bohemian, Robinson Crusoe is an adventure novel come to life, and Edisto is southern soul with sea air. Take a listen to the show to hear how you can visit each one and make it your off the beaten path island adventure.

    41 min

  8. 05/04/2025

    Destination: Road Trips Adventures with Bill On The Road

    Road Trips Adventures With  Bill On The Road Are you ready to hit the road this summer? I have suggestions and recommendations – it’s Road Trips Adventures With Bill On The Road. He is my go to for road trip tips, recommendations and trends. Bill Clevlen, the voice behind Bill On The Road, is a seasoned travel journalist and former St. Louis radio broadcaster who has been exploring America’s highways and byways since 2013. Clevlen launched his travel platform to spotlight the positive aspects of cities and towns across the United States. There are so many great places to visit around the U.S. and he find the big cities and he expertly knows how to find the off the beaten path places. Those quirky, fun places are all on the list of Road Trips With Bill On the Road. Road trip adventures are no problem for our road warrior. Over the past decade, Clevlen has journeyed through all 50 states, sharing stories that celebrate local culture, history, and unique attractions. His travels have taken him from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of small-town America, always with an eye for the offbeat and the overlooked. Bill Clevlen, the well-traveled guys from Bill On The Road, has explored a vast array of destinations across the United States. Some of the spots he’s checked out are: San Francisco, California: Explored iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Daytona Beach, Florida: Shared insights on how to spend a perfect weekend, highlighting the area’s beaches and motorsport heritage. Kennedy Space Center, Florida: Discussed the value of visiting this iconic space exploration site St. Augustine, Florida: Provided a guide on must-do activities in America’s oldest city. Brevard, North Carolina: Known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” offering outdoor adventures and scenic beauty Stillwater, Oklahoma: Recognized for its friendly atmosphere, cultural attractions, and local cuisine. California’s Highway 1: Celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views and attractions. For more detailed stories and travel tips from Bill Clevlen’s adventures, you can visit his official website: Bill On The Road. Here all about his travels here on Travel With Annita.  Click the link above and star planning your next road trip.

    41 min
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About

The Adventure begins when you reach into your pocket. Each U.S. Mint Commemorative Quarter design tells a unique story. Each quarter is filled with pride, from hometown heroes to iconic landmarks; wildlife and nature to music and culture. Reach into your pocket and let Quarter Miles Travel take it from there, we’ll turn that quarter into an adventure.

Information

  • Creator
    Travel With Annita and Friends
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Quarter Miles Travel 2021
  • Show Website
    Quarter Miles Travel With Annita