All Things Travel Podcast

Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer
  • 4.3 (29)
  • 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. 16h ago

    The Questions Every Traveler Asks (And What We Actually Tell Them

    Every Client Asks. Here's What We Actually Say. Whether it's a first-time Disney family, a couple planning a honeymoon, or someone who's never considered a cruise, Ryan and Julie hear the same core questions over and over. This week, they decided to just answer them — all at once, on the podcast. No sales pitch, no runaround. Just the real answers they give clients every day, including the ones that are a little more complicated than they first appear. If you've ever wondered whether a travel advisor is actually worth it, this episode is a pretty good place to start. Is It Really Cheaper to Book Online? Ryan and Julie tackle the most common question they hear: can't I just do this myself for less? The honest answer is sometimes yes — but the real question is what you're giving up when you do. Mental load, time, and the risk of booking the wrong thing at the wrong price top the list. They share how a travel advisor's job isn't just to find a price, it's to make sure what you're booking is actually right for you — including knowing which beach is covered in seaweed in August. Travel Insurance: What's Covered and Do You Actually Need It? This one comes down to risk tolerance, not whether you plan to take the trip. Ryan and Julie break down typical coverage categories — cancellation, medical, evacuation, baggage, and delays — and explain that policies vary widely, which is exactly why they vet specific companies for clients. A vivid example: a client group that skipped insurance and got caught in a hurricane two days before departure. Plan for about 5% of your total trip cost as a starting benchmark. Is That Destination Safe Right Now? Social media and the news cycle make this question louder than ever — but louder doesn't always mean more accurate. Ryan and Julie explain how they respond: State Department advisories, on-the-ground partners, and some honest perspective. A Cancun safety incident that happened the distance of LA to Chicago from the resort zone is not the same as a threat to your resort. Context matters. What's the Best Resort or Cruise for My Family? Short answer: it depends, and that's exactly why this question deserves a real conversation. Ryan and Julie walk through how they match families to the right fit — and why a top-10 list from a travel magazine (often sponsored or years out of date) is not the same as advice from someone who's been there and booked it before. How Far in Advance Should I Plan a Big Trip? For milestone trips — honeymoons, multi-gen family travel, graduation trips — the answer is: reach out as soon as you know you want to go, even if it's two years out. Julie is already mapping an Italy graduation trip for next year that she's been quietly tracking for twelve months. For popular destinations like Turks and Caicos or Disney around the holidays, availability goes fast. Standard trips in the four-to-six month range are usually still workable. Bonus Question: The One They Always Get at Disney Consultations Julie's add: nearly every first Disney call turns immediately to dining reservations and Lightning Lanes — months before it's time to think about either. Her advice: book the room first, then let the timeline guide you. Where in the World?  Ryan shares the story of a mother-daughter graduation trip to Walt Disney World — an upgrade to Animal Kingdom Lodge that ended with a giraffe outside their window on arrival. No savannah-view room required. Next week: Ryan recaps the Las Vegas and Mighty Five National Parks leg of his Canyon Spirit Southwest trip. Start planning your own adventure 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!

  2. Jul 15

    Not a Cruise Person? You Might Want to Hear This First

    What Does a Cruise Day Actually Look Like? Before diving into who cruising is for, Ryan and Julie walk through what a cruise experience actually looks like — from boarding day and the muster drill to the flexibility of breakfast options, onboard activities, port days, and evening entertainment. The big takeaway: you can be as busy or as relaxed as you want. Nobody is herding you anywhere. Who Is a Cruise Right For? Ryan and Julie run through the traveler types that tend to thrive on a cruise: Those who want to explore multiple destinations without unpacking multiple timesGuests who enjoy being around people — or want the option to make new friendsActivity lovers AND those who just want to find a quiet corner with a good bookTravelers who don't love flying and can drive to a port or take a transatlantic sailingAnyone looking for a short getaway with strong valueGuests who enjoy a casino on board (and plenty of lines that don't have one, too)Families with kids who need built-in entertainment optionsMulti-generational groups where everyone needs something different — and a dinner table to come back toWhat If Cruising Still Doesn't Sound Like You? Ryan walks through alternatives worth considering: small ship and river cruises (as few as 200 guests, exceptional service), American Cruise Lines for domestic itineraries, expedition cruises to places like Antarctica or the Galápagos, and private or semi-private yacht experiences. There's more variety in cruising than most people realize. A Few Things to Know Before You Book Prepaid gratuities and travel protection are typically added before you sail. Itineraries can shift and excursions can be canceled — a little flexibility goes a long way. And the more you share with your travel advisor, the easier it is to match you with the right ship, line, and timing. Where in the World?  Julie spotlights three families currently at Walt Disney World — including one whose trip had to be shifted last-minute when their two-year-old got sick (Disney and the Wonder and Beyond team made it happen), and another who just sent back glowing feedback that early entry and Lightning Lanes were absolutely worth it. Ryan's Upcoming Adventure Ryan is days away from a trip combining Las Vegas, a VIP Hoover Dam tour, a three-day Mighty 5 National Parks tour, and a two-day train journey from Moab to Denver with Canyon Spirit. Expect at least one — probably two — future episodes on this one. Next week: the hosts tackle the burning questions they get most often as travel advisors. Ready to plan your trip? Visit 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!

  3. Jul 8

    Don't Pack This: What to Leave Home (Before It Gets Confiscated)

    Confessions of an Overpacker Ryan and Julie kick things off with a little self-roasting—yes, even travel advisors overpack. Julie admits to dragging a full suitcase, carry-on, AND a bag to a solo conference, and confesses she packs a swimsuit on trips with zero pools in sight. Ryan's guilty pleasure? A jacket for Florida "just in case." The Stuff You Pack But Never Touch The hosts run down the classic overpacking offenders: the "just in case" formal outfit, an overstuffed toiletry bag, paper guidebooks (though paper maps do have their charm with kids), too many chargers and cords, and snacks that never leave the bag. Ryan shares his trick for avoiding overpacked toiletries—keeping a permanently stocked travel bag at home—and reminds listeners that extra weight isn't just inconvenient, it can cost real money in baggage fees. What Actually Gets Confiscated on Cruises This is where things get serious. Julie breaks down items cruise lines commonly seize: irons, steamers, candles, certain hair tools, and non-surge-protected power strips (pro tip: no three-prong outlets allowed on the strip itself). They also cover CBD products and the legal gray zone around state vs. federal law, weapons or weapon-like items, and drones. Bonus: confiscated items don't just disappear—sometimes law enforcement gets involved. Destination-Specific Surprises Beyond cruises, Ryan and Julie flag rules travelers often miss: camouflage clothing banned in countries like Barbados and Trinidad, drone restrictions abroad, medications that are legal in the U.S. but flagged overseas (including a cautionary tale about Adderall being mistaken for meth), agricultural restrictions in places like Hawaii, protected materials like coral and seashells, cigarette and vape limits in Mexico, and selfie stick bans at parks and museums. Where in the World? 🗺️ Ryan shares a dream client trip: a two-week Tokyo honeymoon based in Akihabara, packed with an anime and game adventure tour, a visit to the Senso-ji Temple, a ramen-making class, and a custom Japanese knife-making experience—plus round-trip flights from Atlanta, all under $5,000. The Big Takeaway Less is more, and a little research before you pack can save you money, hassle, and in some cases, legal trouble. Next week: the hosts tackle who a cruise is actually right for—spoiler, it might be you. Plan your next trip 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!

  4. Jul 1

    Inside Our Disney Bag: What We Never Leave Home Without

    The Non-Negotiables for Every Theme Park Day Ryan and Julie kick off with the essentials that apply to everyone, regardless of age. Water (and a reusable bottle—skip the screw-top kind) is non-negotiable, along with easy-to-grab snacks that won't melt in the Florida heat. They also cover sun and weather protection: hats, sunglasses, cooling towels, sunscreen, and a poncho (disposable, in Julie's case) for surprise rain. Tech & Practical Must-Haves A portable charger and cord top the list—phones are essential for Lightning Lanes, mobile ordering, and park info, especially at Disneyland where nearly everything runs through the app. Other practical picks: hand sanitizer, Band-Aids (waterproof ones are hard to find in the parks), first aid wipes, Ziploc bags, a stain-removal pen, and a wet/dry bag for water park days or unexpected messes. Kid-Specific Essentials For families with little ones, Julie runs through her go-to list: a change of clothes (especially socks), diapers and a portable changing pad if needed, small toys or stickers to keep kids entertained at meals, and headphones or ear muffs for loud rides like Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway. She also swears by mini fans for each kid (to avoid fights), an autograph book with a washable marker, and glow sticks or light-up necklaces to help spot kids after dark. Where in the World? 🗺️ Julie shares a trip she just booked for a young family of four heading to Dreams Playa Mujeres in Cancun this August. The resort's gated, sargassum-protected location, multiple pools (including a waterpark and a toddler-friendly splash pad), and wide variety of included dining make it a standout all-inclusive pick for families with little kids. The Big Takeaway What goes in your park bag evolves with your family and your travel stage—but a dedicated "travel bin" of tried-and-true essentials makes packing for every trip easier. Next week: the hosts cover items you should never pack for your next vacation. Plan your next trip 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!

  5. Jun 24

    Christmas Markets, Golf, Beer & More: The River Cruise for Every Traveler

    Show Notes: River cruising has officially gone mainstream — and a recent US News & World Report ranking proves it. For the first time, they ranked river cruise lines based on expert and traveler ratings, industry awards, pricing, and itineraries. AmaWaterways took the top spot, followed by Uniworld Boutique and Viking River Cruises. Ryan and Julie dig into what makes river cruising so compelling, and then go beyond the basics to highlight four specialty cruise experiences that match your interests — not just your dates. Christmas Market Cruises If you've ever considered river cruising, this has probably crossed your mind. AmaWaterways' Taste of Christmas sailings take you along the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel, stopping in Cologne, multiple German towns, and Strasbourg, France — famously described as the real-life town from Beauty and the Beast. Each stop features multiple Christmas markets, onboard holiday celebrations, and seasonal local events. Pack an extra bag. Golf Cruises AmaWaterways' golf itineraries let you play up to five championship courses in Europe with a dedicated guide, luxury Mercedes transfers, club care, and lunch with beer and wine included at each course. Along the Seine, courses include Paris Saint-Germain Golf Club — ranked 14th in Europe and host to the French Open nine times. You'll go home with a scorecard and some serious bragging rights. Oktoberfest & Beer Cruises This seven-night Danube sailing from Germany to Slovakia weaves Oktoberfest experiences into every port. Think underground tours of historic beer tunnels, monastic brewery visits, cellar tastings, and — yes — a hike up to a castle (optional, apparently). The beer comes to you in Passau, Linz, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. Smithsonian Journeys For the intellectually curious traveler, AmaWaterways partners with the Smithsonian Institution to offer sailings with two onboard Smithsonian experts for the entire cruise. Exclusive excursions include a behind-the-scenes tour of Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, a visit to the EU Parliament in Strasbourg, and a guided tour of the UNESCO-designated Neuf-Brisach Citadel. Same river, deeper experience. Where in the World? Ryan is sending a couple on an incredible Canadian Rockies adventure — Rocky Mountaineer, Banff, Jasper National Park, the Columbia Icefield Skyway, and Glacier National Park in Montana. A trip built for a photography-obsessed traveler and his wife. Next week: stay tuned for another episode of All Things Travel! Wonder and Beyond Travel → 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!

  6. Jun 17

    Your Ultimate Travel App Guide: Must-Downloads Before Your Next Trip

    In today's world, your smartphone can be your most powerful travel tool — if you have the right apps loaded up. Travel advisors Ryan and Julie of Wander and Beyond Travel break down their go-to apps for every stage of your trip, from the planning phase all the way to clearing customs on your way home. Destination-Specific Apps Start with the app for wherever you're going. Disney's My Disney Experience app is a must-download the moment you book — use it to explore menus, check wait times, and link your reservation. Cruise lines (Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Princess, and others) each have their own apps, and all-inclusive resorts often have one too. Download them before you leave home and take time to explore them ahead of your trip. Airline Apps Download your airline's app, set up notifications, and always screenshot your boarding pass so you have it offline. And yes — printing a paper boarding pass is still a smart backup move. FlightAware Julie tracks every client's flights through FlightAware, which sends real-time alerts for delays, gate changes, and cancellations. She recommends clients download it too for peace of mind. Rideshare & Transit Apps In the US, grab both Uber and Lyft. Traveling internationally? Look into region-specific apps like FreeNow or Bolt, and don't forget local transit apps for subway or bus systems. WhatsApp Outside the US, WhatsApp is how the world communicates. Tour operators, resort concierges, and transfer companies often use it exclusively. Set it up before you go. Cruise Legend A newer favorite for cruisers who like to explore independently. See which ships are in port on your sailing day and find out what's within walking distance of the dock. Mobile Passport Control For US citizens re-entering the country, this app lets you submit passport and customs info digitally, helping your group move through the line faster. Pro Tip from Ryan: Move all your travel apps to your phone's front screen before a trip so everything is easy to find on the go. Where in the World? Julie's neighbors are currently on a nine-night Disney Dream cruise through Greece, Croatia, and Malta — their kids' first trip to Europe! Next week: specialty river cruises. Wander and Beyond Travel → 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!

  7. Jun 10

    Three Tropical US Destinations That Don't Require a Passport

    All Things Travel – Tropical US Destinations: No Passport Required Ryan and Julie, co-owners of Wonder and Beyond Travel, share three stunning US destinations that deliver a true tropical experience — beaches, culture, and adventure — without the hassle of passports, visas, or customs. 🗺️ Ryan's Road Trip Opener Ryan kicks off the episode recapping a father-son road trip from Fort Wayne, Indiana, hitting the Ohio State Reformatory (filming location for The Shawshank Redemption), Grandpa's Cheese Barn, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, A Christmas Story house, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 🌴 Destination 1: Puerto Rico The closest thing to an international vacation without leaving the US. Must-dos: Old San Juan's colorful colonial streets and historic forts, El Yunque National Forest (the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system), Mosquito Bay bioluminescent kayaking, Flamenco BeachWhere to stay: Dorado Beach (Ritz Carlton) for luxury, Caribe Hilton for families, Hotel El Convento for boutiqueLogistics: US dollars, no passport, cell phones work normally, affordable direct flights. Rental car recommended.🌺 Destination 2: Hawaii A true bucket-list destination with something for every traveler. Maui: Road to Hana, whale watching, snorkeling at MolokiniOahu: Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, North Shore surf cultureKauai: Na Pali Coast catamaran tour, helicopter rides, Waimea CanyonBig Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, night swimming with manta raysWhere to stay: Four Seasons Wailea (luxury), Aulani Disney Resort (families), Koa Kia Resort Poipu (boutique)Logistics: No passport, long flight from the mainland, significant time zone change, rental car strongly recommended. Budget accordingly — Hawaii is not cheap.🐢 Destination 3: US Virgin Islands Classic Caribbean scenery with easy US logistics. Islands: St. Thomas (most developed), St. John (nature-focused, ferry from St. Thomas), St. Croix (relaxed, Danish colonial history)Must-dos: Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay, snorkeling, sailing, island hopping by ferryWhere to stay: Ritz Carlton St. Thomas (luxury), Westin St. John Resort (boutique/romantic), Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort (relaxed)Logistics: US dollars accepted, driving is on the LEFT, flights often connect through Miami, Atlanta, or Charlotte. Customs inspection possible returning to mainland.✈️ Wonder and Beyond Travel Ready to plan your next getaway? Visit wonderandbeyondtravel.com Next episode: Must-have travel apps for your next vacation. 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!

  8. Jun 3

    Hidden Disney Gems: The Most Underrated Walt Disney World Attractions

    Not every Disney memory comes from the biggest ride or the longest Lightning Lane. Sometimes, the most magical moments happen in the places guests walk right past. This week on All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie are sharing their favorite underrated attractions, hidden gems, and overlooked experiences throughout Walt Disney World. From relaxing rides and interactive shows to hidden dining spots and resort favorites, this episode is packed with ideas that can help make your next Disney vacation feel more immersive, memorable, and less rushed. They break the conversation down park-by-park, highlighting experiences that families often miss while running between the headline attractions. Whether you’re planning your very first Disney trip or you’re a longtime Disney fan looking for something new, this episode will help you slow down and discover a different side of Walt Disney World. Some of the hidden gems discussed include:  The PeopleMover and Enchanted Tales with Belle in Magic Kingdom  Living with the Land and the films around World Showcase in EPCOT  Frozen Sing-Along Celebration and Star Tours in Hollywood Studios  Winged Encounters and underrated character meet-and-greets in Animal Kingdom  Resort dining favorites like Sebastian’s Bistro, Whispering Canyon, Olivia’s Cafe, Toledo, and more Along the way, Ryan and Julie also share:  Why these attractions often become the most meaningful family memories  Tips for using underrated experiences to escape crowds and heat  Ways to balance Lightning Lanes and downtime during your Disney vacation  A quick recap of Julie’s recent Washington DC family trip  A “Where in the World is Wonder & Beyond Travel?” segment featuring a last-minute Disney trip planned around riding Carousel of Progress before its refurbishment If your Disney planning style has become all about checking boxes and racing from one attraction to the next, this episode is a reminder that some of the best Disney magic happens when you slow down a little. The world is full of wonder — and sometimes the most unforgettable Disney moments are the ones you never expected.  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!

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4.3
out of 5
29 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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    327
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 All Things Travel Podcast
  • Show Website
    All Things Travel Podcast

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