Vacation Station

Big Blend Radio Network

Big Blend Radio travel podcast featuring expert interviews and conversations covering Travel and Leisure, Destinations, and Event News.

  1. 7H AGO

    Australia’s Epic Rail Journeys: Luxury Train Adventures with Pam & Gary Baker

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writers Pam and Gary Baker share their unforgettable adventures exploring Australia aboard some of the world’s most iconic luxury trains. From crossing the vast Outback to rolling along the stunning southern coastline, the Bakers discuss what it’s like to experience Australia by rail, including journeys aboard the The Ghan, the Indian Pacific, and the Great Southern. They share stories of spectacular landscapes, cultural encounters, wildlife sightings, and culinary experiences that highlight Australia’s diverse regions. Along the way, hear about the history of Australia’s railways, the comfort and elegance of luxury train travel, and the unique excursions offered at stops along the routes. The conversation also explores the transformative power of slow travel—how train journeys allow travelers to truly connect with landscapes, cultures, and fellow passengers while experiencing the best of Australia’s food, wine, and natural beauty. Whether you're dreaming of an Outback adventure, coastal escape, or scenic rail journey across the continent, this episode offers inspiration and practical tips for exploring Australia by train. ARTICLE LINKS & RESOURCES - Explore Australia's Southeastern Coast on the Great Southern Train Ride:  https://luxebeatmahttps://luxebeatmag.com/explore-australias-southeastern-coast-on-the-great-southern-train-ride/   - Explore More of Australia Aboard The Ghan: https://luxebeatmag.com/explore-more-of-australia-aboard-the-ghan/  - Journey Through the Heart of Australia Aboard The Ghan: https://www.seniorlivingmag.com/articles/the-ghan-australia  - Indian Pacific Railway offers a unique view of Australia:  https://porthole.com/slow-cruise-therapy-on-the-indian-pacific/  - Official Site of The Ghan, Indian Pacific & Great Southern: https://www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/  - Australia's Cultural Attractions: https://luxebeatmag.com/australia-unlocked-behind-the-scenes-encounters-of-the-cultural-attractions-of-australia/  - Follow Pam & Gary's travel adventures: https://pamandgarybaker.com/  - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  - Follow Big Blend Radio’s Food, Wine & Travel Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  - Check out the new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

    40 min
  2. 3D AGO

    Historic Fredericksburg, Virginia: George Washington’s Roots, Civil War History & Women's History

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer and author Kathleen Walls explores the rich heritage of Fredericksburg, Virginia—making this the perfect conversation as America approaches its 250th anniversary and during Women’s History Month in March. Located along the Rappahannock River between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Fredericksburg is filled with stories that shaped early America. Kathleen shares insights into the area’s deep connections to George Washington, including his childhood at nearby George Washington's Ferry Farm. The discussion also highlights the legacy of Mary Ball Washington, George Washington’s mother, whose home and memorial in Fredericksburg offer important perspectives on women’s roles in early American history. You'll also hear about Fredericksburg’s role in the American Civil War, including fascinating sites like the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, where visitors can discover 18th-century medicine and the story of Revolutionary War hero Hugh Mercer. Along the way, Kathleen busts historical myths (including the truth about Washington’s famous “wooden teeth”) and shares practical travel tips for exploring Fredericksburg today—from trolley tours and museums to historic homes and heritage sites that bring America’s past vividly to life. Whether you're planning a heritage road trip, celebrating America’s 250th, or looking to experience history where it happened, Fredericksburg offers a powerful journey into the people, places, and stories that shaped the nation. LINKS & RESOURCES * Read Kathleen's Article on Fredericksburg: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/historic-fredericksburg-virginia  * Plan your Visit to Fredericksburg: https://fxbg.com/  * Keep up with Kathleen's Travels: https://www.americanroads.net/  * Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  * Follow this Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  * Check out the new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

    35 min
  3. 4D AGO

    Creative Travel: Exploring Global Crafts and Cultural Traditions

    Celebrate National Craft Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, featuring travel writer, photographer, and textile enthusiast Rose Palmer who explores the fascinating connection between travel and textile arts. Known for her "Quilt Tripping" adventures, Rose shares how journeys around the world inspire creativity, cultural understanding, and new perspectives in quilting and crafts. From the colors and textures found in global markets to traditional techniques like Japanese shibori and sashiko, Rose discusses how textile traditions reflect the stories, heritage, and identity of communities around the world. She also talks about craft-focused travel experiences such as quilting cruises, retreats, and workshops that bring makers together through shared creativity. Hear how exploring local crafts deepens travel experiences, how quilts can tell powerful cultural stories, and why art and craft remain universal languages that connect people across borders. Rose also shares helpful tips for traveling with your craft supplies and finding meaningful craft experiences while exploring new destinations. 📖 Read Rose’s Article on Substack: https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/creative-travel  🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/  📰 Check Out the “Quiltripping Travel” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/QUILTRIPPING-TRAVEL-WITH-ROSE-MAG/  🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/  📲 This episode is also on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts," "Vacation Station," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

    58 min
  4. 6D AGO

    Savor Southern Oregon: The Rogue Valley’s Premier Wine Event

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we explore the culinary, wine, and outdoor adventures of Southern Oregon with Carole Skeeters-Stevens of Travel Medford. Located in the heart of the Rogue Valley, Southern Oregon is home to a thriving wine region known for its remarkable diversity of grape varietals—more than 70 in total—thanks to the area’s unique climate and agricultural landscape. Carole shares insider tips on exploring the region’s wineries, planning a tasting route, and experiencing the highly anticipated Savor Southern Oregon event (June 12 & 13, 2026) that celebrates the area’s food, wine, and artisan producers. Beyond the vineyards, Southern Oregon offers an abundance of outdoor experiences, from scenic hiking and river adventures to visiting nearby natural wonders like Crater Lake National Park. Carol also shares travel tips for lodging, pairing local wines with regional cheeses and cuisine, and making the most of a Rogue Valley getaway. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, foodie traveler, or outdoor adventurer, Southern Oregon offers a flavorful destination filled with unforgettable experiences. Plan Your Visit: https://www.travelmedford.org/  https://savorsouthernoregon.com/  Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/   Follow Big Blend Radio’s Food, Wine & Travel Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  Check out the new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

    25 min
  5. MAR 8

    Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum: Preserving History in New Smyrna Beach

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark explores the powerful stories preserved at the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. This special episode celebrates the second anniversary of the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast and also recognizes Women's History Month, highlighting the importance of community storytelling and the role women play in preserving cultural heritage. Founded in 1768, New Smyrna Beach is one of Florida’s oldest cities. Walking along the quiet residential streets, visitors might easily pass a small white church on North Duss Street. Yet inside the historic Sacred Heart/St. Rita Church is something extraordinary—a living archive of African American history in coastal Volusia County. Through photographs, artifacts, oral histories, and community voices, the museum shares stories of resilience, culture, and community leadership. This episode also explores the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the renowned Florida Highwaymen artists, and the power of genealogy and local storytelling in preserving history for future generations. Be sure to watch Jo’s social media channels for the upcoming launch of her new digital podcast magazine, "Have Glass Will Travel," which will feature travel stories, articles, and highlights from the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES - Learn more about the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum https://www.blackheritage.org/  - Read Jo's article: https://mainlymuseums.com/post/1421/mary-s-harrell-black-heritage-museum-preserving-history-in-new-smyrna-beach/  - Watch the New Smyrna Beach travel episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/egIxyOk8o7M?si=TpO56JJBgyT301j4  - Read Jo’s New Smyrna Beach travel article  https://recipestravelculture.com/new-smyrna-beach-endless-salty-sunshine/  - Follow Jo Clark: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/  - New episodes air every 2nd Sunday: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

    29 min

Ratings & Reviews

3.5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Big Blend Radio travel podcast featuring expert interviews and conversations covering Travel and Leisure, Destinations, and Event News.