All Things Travel Podcast

Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer
  • 4.6 (26)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Listen in each week with Wonder and Beyond Travel Co-Owners and destination experts Ryan and Julie.   He is your travel professor, teaching you everything you need to know to have a magical vacation. She is a Disney-loving, Maryland mom of 3 and a specialist in family travel.    Whether they're discussing incredible destinations, top vacation tips, or sharing personal stories…it’s always All Things Travel.  

  1. 6D AGO

    Top 10 Episodes of 2025: YOUR Favorite Travel Topics of the Year

    As we close out 2025, join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they reveal the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the year—as voted by YOU, our listeners! From solo travel adventures to European getaways, river cruises to budget-friendly tips, this year-end roundup showcases the destinations, advice, and inspiration that resonated most with travelers in 2025. Top 10 Episodes of 2024: Solo Travel: Top Tips, Destinations, and Why You Should Try It (March 12) - Our #1 episode! Discover why solo travel is gaining popularity and get expert tips for planning your first independent adventure.Europe Travel Tips: Essential Guide for First-Time Visitors (July 9) - Everything first-time Europe travelers need to know, from packing to currency to staying connected.Exploring the Danube River with AmaWaterways, Part 1 (April 23) - Ryan's river cruise experience that inspired countless listeners to consider this vacation style.Shoulder Season Travel: Insider Tips for Budget-Friendly and Less Crowded Vacations (April 2) - Maximize your travel budget by discovering the best times to visit popular destinations.How to Plan Your Travel Dreams: Mapping Out Trips for the Next Five Years and Beyond (January 15) - Perfect for this time of year! Learn how to strategically plan multiple dream vacations.What NOT to Do on Your Cruise: Top Mistakes to Avoid (May 14) - Essential advice for first-time cruisers and veterans alike.Alaska Adventures Await: Land, Sea, and Everything In Between (May 21) - Explore all the ways to experience Alaska, from cruise tours to land adventures.Around the World Vacations: Three Incredible Global Travel Experiences (April 9) - Dream big with Adventures by Disney private jet, Uniworld river cruises, and Royal Caribbean world cruises.Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Travel Gems in North America (August 6) - Discover lesser-known destinations perfect for road trips and weekend getaways.Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas Review (August 13) - Ryan and Julie's families sail together on this brand-new ship, comparing multi-generational and adults-only experiences. Whether you're planning your next adventure or just dreaming about future travels, this episode offers valuable insights into what fellow travelers are most interested in learning about. Have episode suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us through our Facebook group "All Things Travel" or at WonderAndBeyondTravel.com. Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    15 min

  2. 12/24/2025

    Christmas at Disney: The Good, The Crowded & The Magical

    Planning a Disney World vacation during the holiday season? Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they dive deep into Julie's recent family trip to Walt Disney World in early December—a time she considers the absolute best for experiencing Disney's Christmas magic. In this Christmas Eve episode, Julie shares insider tips from her week-long stay at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort with her husband, three young children (ages 2, 4, and 6), and in-laws. Discover why the first week of December offers the perfect sweet spot: full holiday decorations are up, but the Christmas week crowds haven't arrived yet. What You'll Learn: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: Detailed strategies for maximizing your experience, including when to arrive (spoiler: earlier than you think!), how to navigate the crowds, and whether the party is worth the costHoliday Dining Recommendations: Reviews of Ohana (breakfast AND dinner!), Tusker House character dining, Via Napoli, Skipper Canteen, and the new Wai Lulu Bar & Grill at Polynesian's Island TowerPark Touring with Young Kids: Real talk about managing three little ones through four park days, including which rides were first-time experiences and how to build in essential downtimeResort Day Strategies: Why planning full resort days alongside park days makes your vacation more enjoyable and creates lasting memoriesMoney-Saving Tips: How an Amazon Fresh order to your resort can save hundreds while keeping snacks and breakfast readily availableTransportation Insights: What to expect when using Disney buses, especially to Disney Springs from Magic Kingdom area resortsJulie offers honest feedback about the challenges of traveling with young children—even for Disney pros—and shares which holiday experiences are must-dos versus those you can skip. She also discusses whether the Christmas party is worth doing every year (her answer might surprise you!) and why the holiday season might not be ideal for your first Disney visit. Whether you're planning your first Disney Christmas or you're a seasoned visitor, this episode provides practical advice for making the most of Walt Disney World's most magical time of year. Featured Locations: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Disney Springs Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    30 min

  3. 12/17/2025

    Ryan's Dominican Republic Honeymoon Experience

    Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie on All Things Travel as Ryan shares an in-depth review of his honeymoon at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic. After Hurricane Melissa forced a last-minute change from Jamaica, Ryan and his wife Jasmine discovered this stunning adults-only all-inclusive resort turned out to be the perfect destination. Planning & Arrival: Dominican Republic entry requirements including the e-ticket processTransfer experience with Amstar and 15-minute drive from Punta Cana airportFirst impressions of the modern, open-air resort with ocean viewsClub Level Benefits: Exclusive breakfast and lunch restaurants with sit-down servicePrivate club pool with enhanced amenitiesPersonal concierge service (Larissa) for reservations and requestsResort Experience: Swim-up room review and honeymoon amenitiesDaily cabana rental at the club pool - the ultimate pampering experienceBeautiful beach conditions and water sports including sailing on a Hobie CatResort layout that "eats people up" so it never feels crowdedDining: Traditional Dominican breakfast and diverse lunch optionsRestaurant reviews across both Zilara (adults-only) and Ziva (family) sidesNo reservations needed - first come, first served systemActivities & Entertainment: Daily schedule from breakfast through evening showsFitness classes, aqua cycling, and water sportsAfternoon tastings: cocktails, rum, coffee, and cigarsWine and painting, silent disco, and nightly theater performancesMichael Jackson and Queen tribute shows, circus acts, and magic showsWhy it felt like "adult all-inclusive camp" in the best wayMulti-Generational Travel: How the connected Zilara/Ziva properties work perfectly for familiesEasy access between adults-only and family sidesShared beach and pool spaces on the family sideWhether you're planning a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or multi-generational trip to the Dominican Republic, this episode provides honest insights into the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana experience, club level benefits, and tips for maximizing your all-inclusive vacation. Keywords: Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Dominican Republic honeymoon, all-inclusive resort review, Punta Cana resorts, adults-only vacation, club level benefits, Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, Caribbean travel, honeymoon planning Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    33 min

  4. 12/10/2025

    Cozy Winter Getaways: From Snowy Cabins to Sunny Beaches

    Ready to escape the winter blues? Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore the best cozy winter getaways that will warm your heart—whether you prefer snow-covered mountains or sun-soaked beaches! In this episode, we're diving into destinations perfect for slowing down, relaxing, and creating magical winter memories. Ryan and Julie share their top picks for travelers who want that perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and relaxation during the colder months. Snowy Mountain Retreats: Discover the charm of alpine escapes in Utah, Colorado, and Vermont. Julie highlights luxurious lodges like the Stein Erickson Lodge in Deer Valley and the iconic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park (yes, the inspiration for "The Shining"!). Even if you're not a skier, these destinations offer snowshoeing, sleigh rides, ice skating, and cozy après-ski vibes with fire pits and warm drinks. Ryan shares his Vermont memories, including maple tastings and exploring quintessential New England towns like Woodstock. Caribbean Sunshine: Not a cold weather person? No problem! Ryan and Julie also cover warm and cozy getaways to places like Aruba, the Bahamas, and St. Lucia. From the dependable sunshine of Aruba to the pink sand beaches of the Bahamas, these destinations offer the perfect vitamin D boost when February feels never-ending. Special Highlights: Julie reveals she's planning an Alaska cruise for July 2027—book early for the best prices!"Where in the World is Wonder and Beyond Travel?" features multiple families heading to Beaches Turks and CaicosExpert tips on choosing boutique accommodations and planning downtimeWhy cozy is more about pace than placeWhether you're dreaming of crackling fireplaces and hot chocolate or tropical drinks and turquoise waters, this episode has the perfect winter escape for you. Pack your fuzzy socks or your swimsuit—either way, you're in for a treat! Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    19 min

  5. 12/03/2025

    Hawaii on Three Budgets: Your Complete Island Planning Guide

    Episode Description Dreaming of a Hawaiian vacation but not sure where to start? In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie wrap up their three-budget series by exploring the islands in three completely different ways—proving that paradise is accessible no matter your budget. What You'll Discover Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they break down three distinct Hawaiian vacation experiences for a family of four, each offering unique adventures across the islands: Budget-Friendly Oahu Adventure (Around $155/person/day) Experience the best of Waikiki without breaking the bank. Stay at the Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki with free breakfast, explore iconic sites like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor, and discover why Oahu offers the biggest bang for your buck. Learn how to maximize free and low-cost activities while still capturing that authentic Hawaiian spirit. Moderate Two-Island Experience (Around $300/person/day) Ready to see more? This 8-10 day journey combines the energy of Oahu with the relaxation of Maui. From Pearl Harbor passport tours and catamaran snorkel cruises to the legendary Road to Hana and Molokini Crater, discover how to experience Hawaii's must-do activities while staying at quality resorts like the Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki and Sheraton Maui. Luxury Multi-Island Escape (Under $700/person/day) Indulge in 10-12 days of pure Hawaiian luxury with stays at Four Seasons properties in Oahu, plus your choice of the Big Island or Maui. Enjoy private island tours, chartered catamarans, helicopter rides over dramatic sea cliffs, VIP luau experiences, and exclusive cultural programs. Learn why the Big Island's Volcanoes National Park is an absolute must-see. Episode Highlights Why Oahu is perfect for budget-conscious travelersThe best free and low-cost activities across the islandsSmart strategies for keeping food costs manageable in HawaiiPrivate vs. group tour options: when to splurgeInter-island flight planning tipsThe ultimate Hawaii activity recommendation from experienced travel advisorsWhether you're planning your first Hawaiian getaway or returning for another taste of aloha, this episode delivers practical insights and real pricing to help you craft your perfect island adventure. Bonus: Hear where Julie's heading next—a magical Disney Christmas trip with family and clients! Ready to start planning your Hawaiian escape? The travel advisors at Wonder and Beyond Travel are here to help create your one-of-a-kind journey. Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    19 min

  6. 11/26/2025

    Planning Your Dream Japan Trip on Any Budget

    Ever thought Japan was out of reach for your family? Think again! In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie break down how to experience the magic of Japan across three different budget levels—and the prices might surprise you. Whether you're a budget-conscious traveler or ready to splurge on luxury experiences, this episode shows you exactly how to make Japan happen for a family of four in summer 2026. Budget Level ($120/person/day): Discover how to spend seven nights exploring Tokyo and Kyoto with simple but comfortable stays, iconic sites, and incredible cultural immersion. Walk through Tokyo's historic Asakusa district, experience the famous Shibuya pedestrian crossing, visit the mesmerizing Team Lab Planets digital art museum, and wander through Kyoto's stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Forest—all without breaking the bank. Moderate Level ($240/person/day): Step it up with more comfortable hotels, guided city tours, and special experiences like Tokyo Disney Sea (rated the world's top theme park!), a traditional tea ceremony, and a day trip to Nara's famous Deer Park. This level balances group tours with curated experiences perfect for families. Luxury Level ($350-450/person/day): Go all out with private tours, five-star accommodations including a traditional ryokan near Mount Fuji, insider access to sumo wrestler training, a private sushi-making workshop, geisha cultural walks, samurai sword lessons, and hot spring experiences. This is Japan at its finest with seamless transportation and unforgettable moments. Ryan and Julie also share their mix-and-match philosophy—you don't have to stick to one budget level! Combine elements from each to create your perfect trip. Bonus: Ryan shares an incredible client story about a life-changing two-week African safari, complete with hippos at dinner, a one-day-old baby elephant, and the elephant with the longest tusks on record! Ready to start planning your Japanese adventure? This episode proves that with the right guidance, Japan is more accessible than you ever imagined. Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    22 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    Multi-Generational Travel: What NOT to Do!

    Planning a trip with multiple generations of your family? Before you book, listen to this essential episode! Travel advisors Ryan and Julie share hard-won wisdom about the most common mistakes families make when planning multi-gen vacations—and how to avoid them. From the planning phase through your actual trip, they cover everything: why you need to nail down dates BEFORE contacting your travel advisor, the importance of having a "team leader" for your group, and why trying to do everything together is a recipe for stress (spoiler: those Disney families of 20 walking in a line aren't having as much fun as you think). Discover why cruises and all-inclusives work so well for multi-gen groups, how to handle different budgets within the same family, and the critical conversation about who's paying for what. Julie shares real stories from her own family trips and client experiences, while Ryan offers practical tips about room configurations, meeting points, and making sure everyone's expectations are aligned. The hosts emphasize that while planning some group activities is important, the magic often happens in the unplanned moments—cousins running to each other in the Magic Kingdom, spontaneous trivia sessions on the cruise ship, or simply sharing a meal together. They also tackle the delicate balance of ensuring the person treating the family doesn't have their preferences overlooked. Whether you're planning a cruise, Disney vacation, or all-inclusive getaway with grandparents, siblings, and kids in tow, this episode will help you create a memorable trip that brings your family closer together—without the drama. Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    18 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    The Best of the Last Frontier: Top Picks for Alaskan Shore Excursions!

    Alaska cruising is unlike any other cruise experience—and the shore excursions truly make the trip. In this exciting episode, travel advisors Ryan and Julie guide you through their favorite excursions at Alaska's most popular ports, sharing the experiences that will create lifetime memories. Start in Juneau with the ultimate triple-threat: whale watching, visiting the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, and enjoying wild Alaskan salmon grilled over a wood fire—all in one incredible day. Then explore Ketchikan's rainforest with a naturalist guide before marveling at the towering totem poles at Totem Bight State Park. Ryan shares his absolute favorite Alaska excursion: the legendary White Pass Summit Rail in Skagway. This is THE train everyone talks about, offering a scenic journey through history and breathtaking landscapes, with a bus ride back so you see completely different views. Julie's dad insisted on this experience above all others, and for good reason. But Alaska's surprises don't stop there. Would you ever think to go snorkeling in Alaska? At Sitka's Magic Island, you can spot colorful rockfish, sea stars, and even giant Pacific octopi in crystal-clear waters—then warm up with hot chocolate afterward. For fishing enthusiasts, Icy Straight Point offers stream fishing expeditions where you can learn fly fishing techniques while angling for trout and salmon. The episode wraps up in Victoria, Canada (a required stop for maritime law reasons) with a cultural and culinary tour through Chinatown, featuring local breweries and the famous Nanaimo Bar dessert. Ryan and Julie emphasize how Alaska excursions differ from Caribbean or Mediterranean options—here, the natural beauty and unique experiences are the main attraction, making careful excursion selection crucial to your cruise satisfaction. Support the show Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

    15 min
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4.6
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

Listen in each week with Wonder and Beyond Travel Co-Owners and destination experts Ryan and Julie.   He is your travel professor, teaching you everything you need to know to have a magical vacation. She is a Disney-loving, Maryland mom of 3 and a specialist in family travel.    Whether they're discussing incredible destinations, top vacation tips, or sharing personal stories…it’s always All Things Travel.  

Information

  • Creator
    Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    298
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 All Things Travel Podcast
  • Show Website
    All Things Travel Podcast

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