Vacation Station

Big Blend Radio Network
  • 3.5 (2)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

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

  1. 1d ago

    Gorillas, Coal Mines, and Fried Chicken: Exploring the Jefferson Highway in Crawford County, Kansas

    Celebrate Pittsburg, Kansas' 150th Anniversary Year with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast exploring the history, culture, food, music, and heritage of Crawford County in Southeast Kansas—just in time for America 250, the Route 66 Centennial, and the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Conference. Featured guest is Chris Wilson, Marketing & Communications for Explore Crawford County and Treasurer of Southeast Kansas Tourism. Travel the original Jefferson Highway through Crawford County as Chris shares stories about historic road alignments, original concrete pavement, century-old iron bridges, Lincoln Park's Jefferson Highway campsite, and the remarkable preservation efforts taking place throughout the region. The conversation also explores Pittsburg's rich coal mining heritage, the famous Amazon Army march, Big Brutus, colorful murals, public art, museums, genealogy research, and the diverse immigrant cultures that helped shape Southeast Kansas. Discover why the area is famous for its legendary fried chicken restaurants, live music, local breweries, scenic backroads, and authentic small-town experiences. Don't forget the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference, taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, including the conference's popular Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66, including Crawford County!  Learn more about Crawford County in Southeast Kansas: https://explorecrawfordcounty.com/  The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway"—runs from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. More: https://jeffersonhighway.org/  Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  📰 Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the show at: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

    35 min

  2. 3d ago

    Córdoba Unveiled: A Journey Through Spain's Historic Jewel

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone explores the captivating city of Córdoba, Spain, where centuries of Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences have created one of Europe's most fascinating cultural landscapes. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Córdoba invites visitors to wander its winding historic streets, discover architectural masterpieces, and uncover stories that span more than two thousand years. Debbie shares highlights from her journey, including the awe-inspiring Mezquita-Catedral, one of the world's most remarkable examples of Islamic and Christian architecture, and the historic Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress that played a significant role in Spanish history. The conversation also delves into Córdoba's celebrated traditions, from colorful festivals and lively plazas to the elegance of the famed Andalusian horses, whose performances reflect the region's enduring cultural heritage. Whether you're drawn to history, architecture, or immersive cultural experiences, this episode reveals why Córdoba remains one of Spain's most extraordinary destinations. 📖 Read Debbie's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/cordoba-spain  🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/  📚 Explore Debbie's Global Adventures Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/

    22 min

  3. Jun 18

    Pets, Purpose & Slow Travel: Getting to Know Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters

    In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebrating the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com. This shared episode features co-host Angela Laws, Head of Charitable Partnerships and External Engagement at TrustedHousesitters, who shares her inspiring journey through pet sitting, purposeful travel, animal welfare, and community building. A lifelong animal lover, Angela discusses how pet sitting became a lifestyle that has allowed her to experience cultures around the world while caring for pets and helping pet parents travel with peace of mind.  From meaningful travel experiences and cultural discoveries to charitable work supporting animal rescue and fostering, Angela reflects on the trust, communication, and compassion that connect people through a shared love of animals. The conversation also explores the benefits of slow travel, the emotional bonds between pets and their people, favorite destinations, life lessons learned through travel, and the importance of supporting animal welfare organizations. 🐾 Learn more about TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/  🏡 Explore Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com/  🎧 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com/

    1h 7m

  4. Jun 17

    Lessons Learned from Travel: Look Both Ways on Small Islands

    In Part One of her new "Lessons Learned from Travel" series, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares a memorable story from her award-winning travel memoir, Lost Angel Walkabout. In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show, Linda reads an excerpt from her story "Look Both Ways on Small Islands," recounting her first international solo adventure to Tahiti. What began as a dream trip through Bora Bora and Moorea quickly turned into an unexpected lesson in awareness, perception, and personal safety when local authorities mistakenly suspected her of involvement in a drug investigation.  Linda reflects on the travel lessons she learned from the experience, including the importance of situational awareness, trusting your instincts, and understanding that when you travel, you're never as anonymous as you think. The conversation also explores solo travel, personal growth, travel safety, and how these early adventures ultimately inspired the title of her book series, "Lost Angel Adventures." 📖 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales on Audible: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/  🌍 Follow Linda's Books & Adventures: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com  https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe from your favorite podcast platform: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com  📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/

    22 min

  5. Jun 16

    Exploring Indiana's Amish Country: Craftsmanship, Community & Culture in Shipshewana

    In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the fascinating culture, traditions, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish and Mennonite communities in Shipshewana. From handcrafted furniture and pottery to leatherwork, quilting, dairy farming, and buggy making, Lisa shares her experiences meeting local artisans and learning how family, faith, and community shape daily life in Indiana's Amish Country. Highlights include visits to a traditional buggy maker, conversations about Amish and Mennonite history, and discovering how small businesses thrive through craftsmanship and strong community values. The episode also explores the region's culinary traditions, farming practices, local markets, and unique cultural attractions that offer visitors a deeper understanding of one of America's most distinctive communities. As America approaches its 250th birthday, Amish Country provides a meaningful opportunity to experience traditions, entrepreneurship, and heritage that continue to shape the nation's story. PLAN YOUR VISIT  - Shipshewana Visitor Center: https://visitshipshewana.org/  - Menno-Hof Amish & Mennonite Information Center: https://menno-hof.squarespace.com/  - Riverwood Pottery: https://www.riverwood-pottery.com/  - Teaberry Wood Products: https://shopteaberry.com/  - Silver Star Leather: https://www.silverstarleather.com/  KEEP UP WITH LISA - Follow Lisa's Stories: https://writerlisa.com/  - Subscribe to Journey Jukebox: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/  - Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596  - Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1

    51 min

  6. Jun 15

    True Farm Girl Adventures: Exploring Rural & Small Town America

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer, columnist, and author Cindy Ladage discusses her new book, "True Farm Girl Adventures," and shares stories celebrating rural America, agricultural heritage, small-town communities, and the people who keep these traditions alive. From antique tractors and agri-tourism experiences to Route 66 road trips, hidden museums, historic figures, county fairs, and unexpected backroad discoveries, Cindy highlights the authentic experiences that connect travelers to America's heartland. As part of National Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month, this conversation also celebrates the farmers, agricultural traditions, and rural communities that help feed the nation while preserving an important part of America's cultural heritage. The episode also ties into the spirit of America 250, showcasing the stories, landscapes, and local histories that help tell America's ongoing story. LINKS & RESOURCES: - New Book, "True Farm Girl Adventures": https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/2026/05/30/true-farm-girl-adventures-in-a-book-form/  - Story: "My Encounter with James Dean": https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/2020/09/24/my-encounter-with-james-dean/  - Follow Cindy's adventures: https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/  - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  - Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  - Big Blend Radio's "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

    31 min

  7. Jun 14

    Beautiful and Historic Beaufort, South Carolina: St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island

    Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jo Goes Everywhere" Travel Podcast that takes us to the Beaufort area of South Carolina, where travel writer and photographer Jo Clark explored two stunning barrier islands: St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island.  Jo shares the story of billionaire conservationist Ted Turner, who once owned St. Phillips Island and built a five-bedroom house there that visitors can actually rent today. She also talks about South Carolina's old-growth forests, the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the eerie beauty of Boneyard Beach, and the CCC's role in building the state park system.  The conversation also covers Civil War and Spanish-American War history, the charm of downtown Beaufort (including where to eat and stay), the Port Royal Cypress Wetlands, and a visit to Pat Conroy's grave near Penn Center, a cornerstone of Gullah history and culture. Plus, wildlife lovers will hear about ospreys, alligators, egrets, pelicans, and more. Read Jo's full article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/st-phillips-island-hunting-island-state-park-sc  📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/  📲 Follow Jo: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/  | https://recipestravelculture.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/  🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday at 7pm ET. Listen: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

    37 min

  8. Jun 12

    Showcasing Summer in Southeast Michigan: Festivals, Culture & The Arts

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Petula Brown shares some of her favorite summer festivals, cultural and arts experiences across Southeast Michigan. From jazz and Celtic festivals to outdoor art events, aviation history celebration, Pride festivities, and lavender-filled wellness retreats, Petula highlights the people, places, and activities that make Southeast Michigan a rewarding destination for travelers seeking authentic local culture and community connections. The conversation explores communities including Ypsilanti, Chelsea, Dexter, and Milan, showcasing how festivals support local businesses, celebrate heritage, inspire creativity, and encourage healthy outdoor living. Highlights include the Chelsea Sounds & Sights Festival, Dexter Summer Festival, First Fridays in Ypsilanti, the John E. Lawrence Jazz Festival, Celtic Festival celebrations, the Milan Lavender Harvest Festival, Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival, Thunder Over Michigan, and Ipsy Pride. Read Petula Brown's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/southeastern-michigan-summer-festivals  About Petula Brown: For more than a decade, Petula has written about wellness, family travel, and multicultural experiences for publications including AAA Michigan, Pathfinders Magazine, Spa Magazine, and Crazy Wisdom Journal. Drawing on her perspectives as a woman of color, parent, technologist, educator, and entrepreneur, she creates immersive travel stories that encourage readers to broaden their horizons and discover meaningful travel experiences. Follow Petula Brown: https://www.facebook.com/PYBJourneys/  Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  Check out the Big Blend Radio "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

    35 min
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Big Blend Radio Network
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Big Blend Radio and Magazines
  • Show Website
    Vacation Station