Food, Wine, and Travel with IFWTWA

Big Blend Radio Network
  • 0.0 (0)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Go around the world and across the country with Big Blend Radio’s ”Food, Wine & Travel” Show that features travel writers, photographers, and authors, as well as destination, tourism, and hospitality members of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). New episodes air every second Tuesday & Friday, and every third Monday.

  1. DEC 16

    Uncorking Turkey: Exploring One of the World’s Oldest Wine Cultures

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we’re joined by Andrea Lemieux, author of "The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine – Edition 2: An Exploration of One of the Oldest and Most Unexpected Wine Countries." Andrea shares her journey from Michigan to Turkey and how she became immersed in one of the world’s most ancient wine cultures. The conversation explores Turkey’s 8,000+ years of winemaking history, its astonishing 1,400+ native grape varietals, and the modern renaissance shaping today’s Turkish wine industry. From evolving wine tourism and export challenges to food pairings and legendary hospitality, this episode offers a fascinating look at why Turkish wine deserves a place on every wine lover’s radar. 🌐 Learn more about Andrea’s writing, books, and wine experience services: https://thequirkycork.com/  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

    38 min

  2. DEC 13

    Justice and Comedy in Jamestown, New York

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Barbara Redding explores the unexpected dual legacy of Jamestown, New York—a town shaped by both global justice and iconic comedy. The conversation highlights Jamestown native Robert H. Jackson, whose work as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice and chief prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials helped establish international accountability for war crimes. Balancing this powerful history is Jamestown’s beloved connection to Lucille Ball, whose legacy lives on through the National Comedy Center and the town’s vibrant cultural scene. From historic institutions like the Chautauqua Institute to local wineries and food experiences, Barbara shows how travel brings history, culture, and storytelling together in meaningful ways. 🌐 Read Barbara’s article, “Justice and Comedy: Jamestown, New York’s Surprising Dual Legacy,” on Big Blend’s "Vacation Station" Travel Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/vacationstationtravel/p/justice-and-comedy   🌐 Follow Barbara’s adventures: https://barbararedding.com/  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org  🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” “Toast to The Arts,” and “Way Back When” podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    34 min

  3. DEC 10

    Discovering Flanders: A Journey Through History, Art & Culture

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Jillian Sliwinski of Visit Flanders takes listeners on a journey through Flanders, Belgium, a region rich in history, art, culture, and culinary traditions. The conversation explores Flanders’ central role in European history, including its connections to World War I and World War II, and its remarkable artistic legacy as home to the Flemish Masters. Jillian also highlights a special traveling exhibition from the National Women in the Arts Museum in Washington, D.C., which celebrates the contributions of female artists and will be showcased in Ghent, giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience this extraordinary collection. Listeners learn about Flanders’ compact size and efficient train system, making it easy to explore historic cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, national parks, and cultural landmarks. The episode also emphasizes slow living, quality of life, and culinary experiences, making Flanders ideal for multi-generational travel, art enthusiasts, and history lovers alike. 🌐 Learn more and plan your visit: http://www.visitflanders.com/  🌐Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  🎙️This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Toast to The Arts," "Way Back When," "Women Making History," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  Photo: Graslei, Ghent by Milo Profi, courtesy of Visit Flanders

    34 min

  4. NOV 18

    Exploring the World with Kids: Family Travel Insights with Eileen Cotter Wright

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association, travel writer Eileen Cotter Wright, founder of PureWander.com, shares practical tips, honest stories, and encouraging advice for families who want to explore the world together. From juggling toddler meltdowns to embracing kid-led adventures, Eileen talks about the realities of traveling with young children — and why the rewards far outweigh the challenges. She discusses her journey from traditional journalism to digital travel media, the importance of balancing family-friendly fun with adult experiences, and how exploring history and culture through travel helps children grow. Eileen also highlights favorite kid-friendly destinations like Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers advice on preparing children for flights, and emphasizes why travel insurance is essential for families. This episode also features some of Eileen’s recent family travel stories across the U.S., the U.K., and Costa Rica, showcasing how accessible, meaningful, and joyful multigenerational adventure can be. 📸 Follow her family travel adventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DAgWDj5tmqp/?img_index=1  https://www.instagram.com/p/DO_Ya3zjgAR/?img_index=1  https://www.instagram.com/p/DHZM0lSzENe/  https://www.instagram.com/p/DQCQ04_APrz/  ✈️ Read her family travel stories: - London, UK – https://purewander.com/lovely-london-with-littles-best-things-by-a-local/  - Nosara, Costa Rica – https://purewander.com/spend-a-oceanside-week-in-nosara-costa-rica/  - Grand Rapids, Michigan – https://purewander.com/add-grand-rapids-michigan-to-your-adventures-a-weekend-itinerary/  🌐Explore Eileen’s travel writing at https://purewander.com/  🌐Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  🎙️As part of our National Children's Month and Family Stories Month programming, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Quality of Life," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    48 min

  5. NOV 15

    The Rougarou Fest: Celebrating Louisiana’s Culture, Cuisine & Coastal Conservation

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Merle Rosenstein shares her experiences at the Rougarou Fest in Houma, Louisiana, part of the Annual IFWTWA Conference in Lafayette (October 2025). Merle highlights the rich culinary culture, the legendary Rougarou in local folklore, and the importance of coastal and environmental conservation in Louisiana’s unique communities. The conversation explores how food, festivals, and local traditions connect people to heritage while fostering awareness of sustainable practices. Listeners also learn about Merle’s journey as a travel writer and her vision of SuperBubbie, celebrating active senior travel and cultural exploration. 🌐 Read Merle’s article about the festival: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/haunting-good-fun-and-coastal-preservation-at-houmas-rougarou-fest/  🌐 Visit Merle’s website: https://superbubbie.ca/  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Nature Connection," "Big Daily Blend," and "Way Back When" channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

    31 min

  6. NOV 12

    Discover Whidbey & Camano Islands: Nature, Community & History in Washington State

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s Food, Wine & Travel Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features Inge Morascini, Executive Director of Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism, who shares what makes these two Pacific Northwest gems so special. From the dramatic coastal scenery and rich military and maritime history to the islands’ deep-rooted sense of community and sustainability, this conversation explores what makes Whidbey and Camano ideal for travelers seeking both connection and discovery. Listeners will hear about local artisans, small businesses, foraging and local food experiences, and the growing trend of road tripping through the islands. Whether it’s the off-season serenity, the local farm-to-table culture, or the scenic drives from Seattle, Whidbey and Camano Islands offer transformative travel experiences where nature and community thrive together. 🌐 Learn more: https://whidbeycamanoislands.com/  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When," "Road Trip Radio," and "Parks & Travel" channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

    38 min

  7. OCT 20

    Beyond Tuscany: Exploring Family History, Culture and Everyday Life in Italy

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) celebrates Italian-American Heritage Month and Family History Month with Valerie Fortney-Schneider—writer, author, genealogist, and expat living in Italy. Valerie shares her experiences from nearly 20 years of living in Italy, from her ancestral region of Basilicata to her current home in Ascoli Piceno (Le Marche). Listeners will discover what life is really like beyond Tuscany, as Valerie explores the heart of Italian culture—where hospitality is sacred, community is central, and every meal tells a story. She also discusses her work as a professional genealogy researcher, helping Americans trace their roots and rediscover ancestral connections through travel. Valerie authored "52 Things to See and Do in Basilicata," the first English-language guidebook dedicated solely to the region. Together with her husband Bryan Schneider, author of "Italian Ancestral Journeys: A DIY Guide to Visiting Your Ancestors’ Towns," she has helped hundreds of travelers rediscover their roots and experience Italy through local eyes. From the ancient city of Matera to the local markets, vineyards, and kitchens of small Italian towns, this conversation captures the rhythm, warmth, and authenticity that define life in Italy. 🌐 Learn more about Valerie’s work: http://www.myancestralitaly.com  📚 Explore her books: https://www.myancestralitaly.com/books  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Way Back When History channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

    40 min

  8. OCT 14

    Exploring Louisiana's Cajun Coast

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA, Allison Ledet from Cajun Coast Tourism shares insights about the unique attractions, natural beauty, and cultural heritage of Louisiana’s Cajun Coast. From bird watching and swamp tours to family-friendly Mardi Gras celebrations, ghost tours, and mouthwatering local cuisine, listeners are invited to discover a destination where history, culture, and nature come together. 🌐 Plan your Cajun Coast adventure at: https://cajuncoast.com/  🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA at https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Way Back When channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

    29 min
See All (100)

About

Go around the world and across the country with Big Blend Radio’s ”Food, Wine & Travel” Show that features travel writers, photographers, and authors, as well as destination, tourism, and hospitality members of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). New episodes air every second Tuesday & Friday, and every third Monday.

Information