Cheryl's Travel Blueprint

Cheryl Johnson
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Monthly

Welcome to Cheryl's Travel Blueprint! I’m a former Spanish teacher turned travel advisor, passionate about curating unforgettable experiences. My expertise lies in European adventures (with a special love for Spain), cruising, and all-inclusive Caribbean getaways. I specialize in creating tailored trips for families, multi-generational groups, and teachers—whether they’re traveling solo, with colleagues, or leading student groups. In this podcast, we celebrate the joy of travel, uncover hidden gems, share practical tips and tricks, and embrace the spirit of adventure. Each episode features inspiring conversations with fascinating guests from all walks of life as they share their unique travel stories, lessons, and favorite destinations. Whether you're planning your next getaway or simply love to dream about the possibilities, this is your place to explore the world from wherever you are. Let’s embark on this journey together! 🌍✈️

  1. Why This is the Ultimate Cruise Upgrade You’ve Been Missing

    6d ago

    Why This is the Ultimate Cruise Upgrade You’ve Been Missing

    Repositioning Cruises: The Cruise Deal Most Travelers Don't Know About What if one of the best values in cruising isn't a Caribbean cruise, an Alaska sailing, or even a Mediterranean voyage? In this episode of Cheryl's Travel Blueprint, we're talking about repositioning cruises—those unique sailings that happen when cruise ships move from one region of the world to another. These itineraries often offer more days at sea, fewer ports, and surprisingly attractive pricing compared to traditional cruises. You'll learn what repositioning cruises are, who they're best suited for, the pros and cons to consider, and why they may be one of cruising's best-kept secrets. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser looking for something different or simply curious about how to stretch your travel budget further, this episode will help you decide if a repositioning cruise belongs on your travel wish list. In This Episode: ✅ What a repositioning cruise actually is ✅ Why cruise lines move ships seasonally ✅ The biggest advantages of repositioning cruises ✅ Potential drawbacks travelers should know before booking ✅ Why sea-day lovers often become repositioning cruise fans ✅ How to determine whether this style of cruising is right for you Planning Your Next Cruise? If you're considering a cruise and would like help finding the right itinerary for your travel style, schedule a complimentary planning conversation: 📅 Schedule a cruise consultation: https://calendly.com/cheryl-nostalgictravelco/30min Join My Upcoming Group Cruise Looking for a shorter getaway without committing to a long repositioning voyage? Join the Sail Away Society Winter Escape aboard Virgin Voyages. 🌴 Miami 🌴 Key West 🌊 Day at Sea 🏝️ Beach Club at Bimini 🚢 Return to Miami View the full itinerary here: https://travefy.com/trip/itinerary/k5SSks4Ac-KNBJLOAISbZQXAwMDEECFtEDR25xWQn1H80GtOb9sB Subscribe for More Travel Inspiration If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe for more conversations about cruising, meaningful travel, hidden destinations, cultural exploration, and smarter ways to see the world. 🎙️ New episodes released regularly. Connect with Cheryl Website: Nostalgic Travel Co. Instagram: Instagram Facebook Group: Travel Tips Community YouTube: Cheryl's Travel Blueprint YouTube Channel #CruiseTips #RepositioningCruise #CruiseVacation #CruiseTravel #TravelPodcast #VirginVoyages #CruisePlanning #SlowTravel #OceanCruising #TravelAdvisor #CherylsTravelBlueprint #NostalgicTravelCo #GroupCruise #TravelSmarter #CruiseDeals 🎥 A Quick Update About the Podcast As Cheryl's Travel Blueprint continues to grow, I'm making an exciting change. Going forward, new episodes will be released exclusively in video format on YouTube. While this episode is available on your favorite podcast platform, future conversations, interviews, travel insights, and destination deep-dives will be published on YouTube only. Why the change? Travel is visual. Whether we're talking about cruise ships, hidden destinations, cultural experiences, or travel planning strategies, video allows me to share photos, maps, clips, and other resources that help bring these stories to life in a way audio simply can't. If you've been listening on an audio platform, now is the perfect time to subscribe to the YouTube channel so you don't miss future episodes. 📺 Subscribe here: Cheryl's Travel Blueprint on YouTube Thank you for listening, watching, sharing, and being part of this travel community. I can't wait to continue exploring the world with you—just in a more visual way. 🌎✈️🚢

    7 min
  2. Forget Tourist Traps: 5 Hidden Gems to Visit Now

    Jun 15

    Forget Tourist Traps: 5 Hidden Gems to Visit Now

    The Best Places to Visit Might Not Be the Ones You've Heard Of What if the destination everyone is talking about isn't actually the best place for you? In this episode of Cheryl's Travel Blueprint, we're exploring one of my favorite travel strategies: second-city travel. After unexpectedly finding myself in the middle of a housing protest during a recent trip to Barcelona, I started thinking more deeply about the impact tourism has on the communities we visit—and why some of the most rewarding travel experiences happen just beyond the spotlight. While iconic destinations like Barcelona, Paris, Venice, and Amsterdam deserve their reputation, they're also facing growing challenges related to overtourism, housing shortages, and infrastructure strain. As travelers, we have an opportunity to experience destinations more thoughtfully while supporting communities that often receive fewer visitors. In this episode, we'll discuss: ✈️ What "second cities" are and why they matter 🏛️ How overtourism is affecting some of the world's most beloved destinations 🏡 What I witnessed firsthand in Barcelona during a housing demonstration 💰 Why second cities often offer better value, fewer crowds, and more authentic experiences 🌍 Some of my favorite second-city swaps across Europe ❤️ How traveling beyond the obvious can create deeper, more meaningful memories Whether you're planning your first trip abroad or you're a seasoned traveler looking for a fresh perspective, this episode may inspire you to look beyond the headline destinations and discover places that feel more personal, relaxed, and connected to local life. Featured Second-City Swaps Barcelona → ValenciaMadrid → SalamancaVenice → BolognaParis → LyonAmsterdam → UtrechtReady to Plan Your Next Adventure? If you're looking for help creating an itinerary that balances iconic highlights with hidden gems, I'd love to help. 📅 Schedule your complimentary travel consultation:https://calendly.com/cheryl-nostalgictravelco/30min Together, we can design a trip that reflects your travel style, interests, and goals—not just the places everyone else is visiting. Question for Listeners What's the best "second city" you've ever visited? Share your answer in the comments. Your recommendation might inspire someone else's next unforgettable adventure. Subscribe to Cheryl's Travel Blueprint If you enjoy conversations about intentional travel, cultural connection, hidden gems, and meaningful experiences, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. New episodes explore: Smart travel strategiesDestination inspirationCultural insightsCruise and land travel ideasWays to travel deeper, not just fartherUntil next time... Travel intentionally.Stay curious.And don't be afraid to take the road less traveled.

    8 min
  3. Why People Who "Hate Cruises" Are Falling in Love with Virgin

    Jun 8

    Why People Who "Hate Cruises" Are Falling in Love with Virgin

    I Thought I Knew Cruising... Then I Tried Virgin Voyages What if everything you thought you knew about cruising was wrong? For years, many travelers associated cruises with crowded buffets, formal dining schedules, and activities that felt more predictable than exciting. Then I stepped aboard Virgin Voyages and discovered something completely different. In this episode, I'm revisiting one of my favorite conversations with Paige from Virgin Voyages. We discuss what makes Virgin different, from the adults-only atmosphere and elevated dining experiences to the iconic red hammocks, wellness offerings, and incredible itineraries around the world. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or someone who has always said, "Cruises aren't for me," this conversation might just change your perspective. In This Episode ✔️ What makes Virgin Voyages different from traditional cruise lines ✔️ Why adults-only cruising creates a unique onboard atmosphere ✔️ What's actually included in your cruise fare ✔️ The dining experience everyone talks about ✔️ The famous red hammocks and Sea Terrace cabins ✔️ Solo traveler, couple, and group travel opportunities ✔️ Bimini Beach Club and Caribbean sailings ✔️ European itineraries from Barcelona and Athens ✔️ Exciting Alaska sailings and bucket-list adventures ✔️ Why so many travelers become repeat Virgin Voyages sailors Join the Virgin Voyages Webinar Notification List I'm planning an upcoming webinar where I'll share insider tips, favorite itineraries, onboard experiences, booking strategies, and answer your questions about Virgin Voyages. Want to be notified when registration opens? Join the notification list here:https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/PdYLv0n Ready to Explore Virgin Voyages? If you're ready to start planning your own Virgin Voyages adventure, I'd love to help. Book your Virgin Voyages cruise here, or at:https://tinyurl.com/bookvirgintoday Connect With Cheryl Cheryl JohnsonNostalgic Travel Co. Helping travelers create meaningful experiences through cruises, cultural exploration, and unforgettable journeys. Subscribe If you enjoy travel tips, cruise insights, destination inspiration, and conversations that help you travel more intentionally, be sure to subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. Have you sailed with Virgin Voyages, or is it on your travel wish list? Let me know in the comments! #VirginVoyages #AdultsOnlyCruise #CruiseVacation #LuxuryTravel #CaribbeanCruise #AlaskaCruise #EuropeanCruise #CruiseTips #TravelAdvisor #NostalgicTravelCo #CherylsTravelBlueprint

    16 min
  4. The Secret Travel Superpower You Didn't Know You Needed

    Jun 1

    The Secret Travel Superpower You Didn't Know You Needed

    Learning Spanish Changed the Way I Traveled—Even in Italy What if learning Spanish could improve your travels, even in countries where Spanish isn't the primary language? In this episode of Cheryl's Travel Blueprint, I'm sharing a personal story from Italy where a basic knowledge of Spanish helped me communicate with a pharmacist when I needed medication and didn't speak a word of Italian. That experience reinforced something I've believed for years: learning another language isn't about perfection—it's about confidence, connection, and opening doors to experiences you might otherwise miss. We'll also talk about:  Why you don't need to be fluent to benefit from learning Spanish  How language transforms the travel experience  The surprising similarities between Spanish and other Romance languages  A memorable student scavenger hunt in Madrid where basic Spanish skills made all the difference  Why adults often underestimate their ability to learn a language  How language learning helps you connect more deeply with people, culture, food, and history Whether you're planning a trip to Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, or simply want to feel more confident when you travel, this episode will show you why learning even the basics can have a lasting impact. Ready to Start Learning Spanish? I'm now offering Spanish coaching and tutoring for travelers, lifelong learners, and anyone who wants to build confidence speaking Spanish. 📅 Schedule a complimentary chat to learn more and discuss your goals here We'll talk about:  Your current Spanish level  Your travel goals  Virtual, in-person, and hybrid lesson options  A learning plan that fits your schedule and interests Connect With Cheryl Travel Planning & Resources: Nostalgic Travel  Subscribe to Cheryl's Travel Blueprint If you enjoyed this episode, please:  Subscribe to the podcast  Leave a review  Share this episode with a friend who has always wanted to learn Spanish  Follow along for more conversations about travel, culture, language, and meaningful experiences around the world Remember: You don't need perfect Spanish to have incredible experiences. Sometimes all it takes is the courage to start the conversation. #SpanishForTravel #LearnSpanish #TravelTips #SpainTravel #LanguageLearning #TravelConfidence #CulturalTravel #MeaningfulTravel #SpanishLessons #TravelPodcast #CherylsTravelBlueprint #NostalgicTravel #StudyAbroad #TravelEducation #TravelMoreMeaningfully

    9 min
  5. The Most Relaxing Way to See Europe Isn't What You Think

    May 25

    The Most Relaxing Way to See Europe Isn't What You Think

    The Most Relaxing Way to See Europe Isn’t What You Think What if the best way to experience Europe wasn't rushing through airports, dragging suitcases across cobblestone streets, or constantly packing and unpacking? In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, we're exploring the growing appeal of luxury river cruising and why more travelers are choosing a slower, more immersive way to discover Europe. From storybook villages and vineyard-covered hillsides to centuries-old cities that seem frozen in time, river cruising offers a front-row seat to the heart of a destination—without the stress of traditional travel. We'll talk about what makes river cruising different from ocean cruising, why it appeals to travelers seeking comfort and cultural connection, and how the right itinerary can transform the way you experience Europe. Whether you've been curious about river cruising or are actively planning your next adventure, this episode will help you decide if this style of travel is the perfect fit for you. In This Episode ✅ Why river cruising is one of Europe's best-kept travel secrets ✅ The difference between river cruises and ocean cruises ✅ How unpacking once can completely change your travel experience ✅ The appeal of visiting smaller towns and hidden gems ✅ The luxury, comfort, and personalized service found onboard ✅ Why food, wine, and local culture play a major role in the experience ✅ Who river cruising is best suited for—and who may want a different style of vacation ✅ Popular European river cruise destinations and itineraries Ready to Explore River Cruising? If you'd like to learn more about the river cruise experiences available through AmaWaterways, you can explore options here: 👉 AmaWaterways River Cruises: tinyurl.com/rivercruiseama Disclosure: This link is an affiliate link. If you book through this link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Cheryl's Travel Blueprint and Nostalgic Travel. Let's Talk About Your Next Vacation Thinking about a river cruise but not sure where to start? Schedule a complimentary travel consultation and let's discuss your travel goals, preferred destinations, budget, and travel style. 📅 Book Your Travel Consultation: https://calendly.com/cheryl-nostalgictravelco/30min Connect with Cheryl 🌐 Nostalgic Travel website 🎙️ Cheryl's Travel Blueprint Podcast on youtube 📧 Travel Planning & Group Travel Inquiries Welcome Enjoying the Podcast? If you found this episode helpful, please: ⭐ Subscribe to the channel ⭐ Leave a review ⭐ Share this episode with a friend who dreams of exploring the world on a river cruise ⭐ Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Every subscription, review, and share helps more travelers discover meaningful travel experiences around the world. #RiverCruise #AmaWaterways #EuropeanRiverCruise #LuxuryTravel #SlowTravel #EuropeanTravel #DanubeRiverCruise #RhineRiverCruise #TravelPodcast #CherylsTravelBlueprint #NostalgicTravel #TravelAdvisor #LuxuryRiverCruising #BucketListTravel #TravelEurope

    11 min
  6. You’ll never look at your Flight Attendant the same way again

    May 18

    You’ll never look at your Flight Attendant the same way again

    You’ll Never Look at Your Flight Attendant the Same Way Again ✈️ What really happens behind the curtain of air travel? In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl sits down with longtime flight attendant Dave for an honest conversation about the realities of life in the skies — the parts passengers rarely see, the emotional weight flight attendants carry, and the moments that can change lives in seconds. From overnight delays and medical emergencies to rising passenger tensions and the pressure of staying calm during chaos, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood jobs in travel. You’ll also hear:  Why flight attendants are first and foremost safety professionals  The emotional toll of difficult passenger behavior  What really happens during emergency situations onboard  Why leaving your bags behind during an evacuation can save lives  The hidden sacrifices behind the glamour people imagine  Stories from the skies that will completely change how you view air travel If you’ve ever boarded a plane without thinking much about the crew greeting you at the door, this episode may completely shift your perspective. And if you travel often, this conversation is one you truly need to hear. 🎧 Be sure to subscribe to Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint so you never miss future conversations about meaningful travel, culture, and the stories behind the journey. ✈️ Planning Your Next Adventure? Looking for curated tours, excursions, and unforgettable experiences for your next trip? Explore hand-picked activities through GetYourGuide Disclaimer: Cheryl may earn a small commission from qualifying bookings made through affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. #travelpodcast #flightattendant #aviationstories #traveltips #airtravel #travelsafety #travelpodcastshow #traveladvisor #wanderlust #travelstories

    9 min
  7. You Have to Stop Traveling Like a Tourist. Here’s Why.

    May 12

    You Have to Stop Traveling Like a Tourist. Here’s Why.

    Cultural Etiquette: The Travel Skill Most People Forget What if the thing shaping your travel experience the most… isn’t the destination itself? In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, we’re diving into something that can completely change the way you experience the world: cultural etiquette. Because sometimes the moments travelers label as “rude,” “awkward,” or “uncomfortable” are actually moments of cultural misunderstanding. From customer service differences in Spain to expectations around communication, personal space, dining customs, and social norms, this episode explores how learning local etiquette can transform frustration into connection. You’ll also hear personal stories, reflections on cultural perspective shifts, and practical ways to travel with more awareness, empathy, and confidence. If you’ve ever traveled abroad and thought:  “Why are people acting this way?”  “Did I do something wrong?”  “This feels so different from home…” …this episode is for you. In This Episode  Why cultural etiquette matters more than most travelers realize  How American expectations can shape travel experiences  A common customer service misunderstanding in Spain  Why slowing down and observing matters when traveling abroad  The difference between transactional hospitality and cultural norms  How cultural awareness leads to more meaningful travel experiences  Tips for adapting respectfully while still being authentically yourself Mentioned in This Episode ✨ Explore curated cultural experiences and guided tours through Get Your Guide: Get Your Guide Experiences From local food tours and flamenco performances to historical walking tours and immersive cultural experiences, these activities can help travelers connect more deeply with the destinations they visit. Disclaimer: I may earn a small commission if you book through my affiliate link, at no additional cost to you. Connect with Cheryl & Nostalgic Travel 🌍 Website: Nostalgic Travel Co. 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes about meaningful travel, cultural exploration, and intentional experiences. Enjoying the Podcast? If this episode resonated with you, please:  Subscribe to the channel  Leave a review  Share this episode with someone who loves travel and cultural exploration Because the more we understand the world… the more meaningful travel becomes.

    11 min
  8. One Wrong Turn: The Reality of Sundown Towns

    Apr 27

    One Wrong Turn: The Reality of Sundown Towns

    🎙️ Podcast Show Notes When Travel Wasn’t Free: The Hidden History of Traveling While Black ✈️ Episode Overview We talk about travel like it’s freedom. A break. An escape. A chance to explore. But for many people in American history… travel wasn’t freedom. It was something you had to plan for carefully. Navigate strategically. And sometimes… fear quietly. In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, we explore a deeper, often overlooked side of travel—the reality of traveling while Black during the Jim Crow era, the existence of sundown towns, and what it meant to move through the world when your safety wasn’t guaranteed. This isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a conversation about:  Awareness  Perspective  And how understanding the past changes the way we travel today Because when you understand what travel used to require for some people… 👉 You begin to see your own journeys differently. 🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Hear:  A powerful personal story that captures the emotional reality of traveling while Black  What sundown towns were—and why they mattered  How travelers had to plan routes around safety, not convenience  The role of The Negro Motorist Green Book as a guide for survival  Why this history still shapes how some people experience travel today  How to approach travel with more intention, awareness, and empathy 🧭 Why This Conversation Matters Travel is often presented as something universal. But it hasn’t always been equally accessible—or safe—for everyone. This episode invites you to:  Look beyond the highlight reel  Understand the lived experiences behind movement  And travel with a deeper sense of awareness Because meaningful travel isn’t just about where you go… 👉 It’s about what you understand when you get there. 🌍 Take the Conversation Further If this episode resonated with you, don’t let it stay theoretical. Step into places where these stories actually happened—and where history becomes something you can feel, not just learn. 👉 Explore curated, meaningful travel experiences here, through Get your Guide:Memphis, TN Washington, DC Montgomery, AL Atlanta, GA Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission if you book through these links, at no additional cost to you. 📖 Companion Blog Post This episode is paired with a deeper companion blog that expands on the themes we discussed and offers additional reflection and travel insights. 👉Read here 💬 Let’s Continue the Conversation This episode is meant to open a door. I’d love to hear from you:  What did this conversation bring up for you?  Has travel ever changed the way you see the world—or yourself? Leave a comment, send a message, or share this episode with someone who would connect with it. 🔔 Don’t Miss What’s Next If you’re ready for travel that goes deeper than the surface: 👉 Subscribe to Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform Because we’re not just talking about where to go… 👉 We’re redefining how to experience it.

    11 min
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About

Welcome to Cheryl's Travel Blueprint! I’m a former Spanish teacher turned travel advisor, passionate about curating unforgettable experiences. My expertise lies in European adventures (with a special love for Spain), cruising, and all-inclusive Caribbean getaways. I specialize in creating tailored trips for families, multi-generational groups, and teachers—whether they’re traveling solo, with colleagues, or leading student groups. In this podcast, we celebrate the joy of travel, uncover hidden gems, share practical tips and tricks, and embrace the spirit of adventure. Each episode features inspiring conversations with fascinating guests from all walks of life as they share their unique travel stories, lessons, and favorite destinations. Whether you're planning your next getaway or simply love to dream about the possibilities, this is your place to explore the world from wherever you are. Let’s embark on this journey together! 🌍✈️

Information

  • Creator
    Cheryl Johnson
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Cheryl Johnson
  • Show Website
    Cheryl's Travel Blueprint