Shows
All Things Travel PodcastRoyal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas ReviewTravel advisors Ryan and Julie share their honest first impressions of Royal Caribbean's newest mega-ship, Utopia of the Seas. Fresh off their 3-night Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, they dive into everything from boarding chaos to Perfect Day at CocoCay bliss. Despite sailing together, their vastly different experiences prove this ship truly offers something for everyone - from families with toddlers to adults seeking party vibes.What You'll LearnShip Experience: Detailed review of Utopia of the Seas' amenities, noise levels, and "perfect weekend" party atmosphere designed for short getaways
2025-08-1348 minAll Things Travel PodcastOff the Beaten Path - Hidden Travel Gems in North AmericaTravel advisors Ryan and Julie kick off an exciting new series highlighting lesser-known destinations that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list. This episode focuses on hidden gems across North America - from charming small towns to pristine beaches that offer unique experiences away from crowded tourist hotspots.Featured DestinationsAsheboro, North CarolinaLocation: 30 minutes south of Greensboro, 90 minutes west of RaleighStar Attraction: North Carolina Zoo - world's largest natural habitat zooActivities: Hiking Purgatory Mountain, pottery shopping in Sea Grove, famous fried chicken at Magnolia 23...
2025-08-0618 minAll Things Travel PodcastSt. Lucia Adults-Only Paradise at Sandals Grand St. LucianTravel advisors Julie and Ryan welcome Julie's husband Steven to discuss their incredible 5-night couples getaway to St. Lucia's Sandals Grand St. Lucian Resort. After seven years without an adults-only vacation, this Eastern Caribbean adventure offered the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury service.Getting There:Unique helicopter transfer from airport to resort (first helicopter ride for both!)Scenic flight over rainforest and landmarksAlternative ferry option for return journeyAccommodations:Club Level beachfront walkout room - 30 steps from pristine beachRodney Bay location with mountain views and yacht-filled...
2025-07-3044 minAll Things Travel PodcastDisney Magic Through the Years - When Nostalgia Meets VacationJoin travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they take a magical trip back in time to explore the nostalgic side of Walt Disney World. Perfect for Disney adults and families planning their next vacation, this episode dives deep into what makes Disney World so special across generations.Magic Kingdom NostalgiaIt's a Small World: Connection to the 1960s World's FairCarousel of Progress: Another World's Fair attraction with generational appealMain Street USA: The emotional heart of Disney magic, designed like walking into a movieSplash...
2025-07-2320 minAll Things Travel PodcastAmaWaterways Bordeaux Wine Cruise - Exclusive Group Opportunity with Ryan!Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they dive into an exclusive AmaWaterways river cruise opportunity that wine and food lovers won't want to miss! Ryan shares details about his hosted group cruise through France's renowned Bordeaux wine region, sailing July 16-23, 2026.Featured Cruise: Taste of Bordeaux Wine-Themed River CruiseShip: AmaWaterways AmaDolce Dates: July 16-23, 2026 Route: 7-night round-trip from BordeauxHighlighted Destinations & Experiences:Bordeaux wine regions: Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Libourne, Blaye, CadillacExclusive wi...
2025-07-1620 minAll Things Travel PodcastGame On! Ultimate Sports Travel Adventures Around the WorldJoin travel experts Ryan and Julie as they explore the exciting world of sports travel, combining your passion for sports with incredible destinations. Discover exclusive sports vacation packages, VIP experiences, and insider tips for planning the ultimate sports-focused getaway.Wimbledon VIP Experience7-day London itinerary with VIP Wimbledon seatsPrivate Egyptologist-led British Museum tourThames speedboat ride & Bond film location tourWarwick Castle explorationBooking tip: Tickets nearly impossible for general publicSwiss Alps Skiing at Zermatt4-day ski pass with cross-border accessHotel Alper location steps from...
2025-07-0222 minAll Things Travel PodcastSurviving the Airport with Kids!Join travel advisors and destination experts Ryan and Julie as they share essential tips for navigating airports with young children. From pre-trip preparation to boarding strategies, this episode covers everything parents need to know to make family travel less stressful and more enjoyable.Key Topics CoveredPre-Travel PreparationWorking with travel advisors for comprehensive packing listsEssential gear: strollers with travel bags, baby carriers, and separate backpacks for kids' itemsPrepping children mentally for their first flights through books, toys, and step-by-step explanationsAirport Navigation Strategies
2025-06-2525 minAll Things Travel PodcastYacht Vacations - Luxury, Adventure & Complete FreedomEpisode Overview Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore the world of yacht vacations - a luxury travel experience that's more accessible than you think! Discover how small vessel cruises offer privacy, flexibility, and exclusive destinations that mega cruise ships can't reach.What You'll Learn About Yacht VacationsTypes of Yacht Experiences:Private charters (book entire yacht and crew)Cabin charters (book individual rooms like regular cruises)Sailing yachts vs. motor yachtsCatamarans and small vessel optionsKey Benefits:Privacy and flexibility...
2025-06-1817 minAll Things Travel PodcastThe Ultimate Guide to Planning Your "Retirement-Moon"Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore "retirement moons" - celebratory trips marking life's next chapter. Learn essential planning tips and discover top destinations for your dream retirement adventure.What is a Retirement Moon?A celebratory trip taken at retirement time, growing in popularity as retirees are more active and healthy. It's a reward for decades of work and kickoff to a new lifestyle.Timing: Plan for a few months after retirement to decompress and handle life transitions.Budgeting: Decide between splurge...
2025-05-2817 minAll Things Travel PodcastAlaska Adventures Await - Land, Sea & Everything In BetweenJoin travel experts Ryan and Julie as they explore America's Last Frontier in this comprehensive guide to Alaska travel. Whether you're considering an Alaska cruise, land-based adventure, or combination trip, this episode covers everything you need to know to plan your dream Alaska vacation.Land-Based Alaska VacationsStarting points: Anchorage and FairbanksTransportation options: Alaska Railroad, rental cars, guided toursDeeper immersion into wilderness and local cultureAccess to interior Alaska destinations like Denali National ParkCustom itineraries for specific interests (fishing, photography, wildlife)Best for: Active travelers, photographers, wildlife enthusiastsAlaska CruisesInside Passage routes from Seattle...
2025-05-2121 minAll Things Travel PodcastWhat NOT to Do on Your Cruise: Top Mistakes to Avoid Before & During Your VacationIn this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie share crucial advice on what NOT to do on your next cruise vacation. From booking to disembarkation, they cover the common mistakes that can ruin your cruise experience. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this episode provides valuable tips to ensure smooth sailing on your next ocean adventure.Pre-Cruise Mistakes to AvoidBooking flights on embarkation day: The hosts share a cautionary tale of a bride and groom who missed their entire cruise weddingNot having...
2025-05-1425 minAll Things Travel PodcastWelcome to Wonder and Beyond Travel!In this special episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie announce the launch of their brand new travel agency, Wonder and Beyond Travel. After seven years of experience in the travel industry, the duo shares their excitement about this new venture and how they aim to provide personalized travel experiences that inspire curiosity and transformation through travel.What You'll LearnThe story behind the creation of Wonder and Beyond TravelThe agency's core values and mission to inspire "wonder and beyond" in travel experiencesHow Ryan and Julie's expertise has...
2025-05-0713 minAll Things Travel PodcastExploring the Danube River with AmaWaterways (Part 2)In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie continue their discussion of Ryan's recent river cruise experience with AmaWaterways on the Romantic Danube itinerary. After covering the pre-cruise stay and initial impressions in the previous episode, they dive deeper into the dining experience, daily excursions, and how the cruise line handles unexpected situations.Dining Experience on AmaWaterwaysBreakfast: Combination of menu items (omelets, eggs benedict, pancakes) and buffet options including English breakfast and pastriesLunch: Menu-based with regionally-inspired options, including sandwiches, soups, and hot main dishes
2025-04-3028 minAll Things Travel PodcastExploring the Danube River with AmaWaterways (Part 1)Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they discuss Ryan's recent river cruise experience on AmaWaterways' Romantic Danube itinerary. In this episode, Ryan shares the first part of his journey, including his pre-cruise adventures in Munich, Germany, and his initial experiences aboard the ship.Episode Highlights:Ryan participated in AmaWaterways' "Seminar on the River" program, combining a typical river cruise experience with special training sessions for travel advisorsThe cruise sailed from Vilshofen, Germany to Budapest, Hungary on a 7-night journeyRyan discusses his pre-cruise stay in Munich, including hotel selection strategies and a food...
2025-04-2330 minAll Things Travel PodcastDisney Dining Reservations 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Walt Disney World VacationIn this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie break down the complexities of Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) at Walt Disney World, offering expert advice for travelers planning their magical dining experiences.Key TakeawaysAdvanced Dining Reservations can be made 60 days before your check-in dateOn-site resort guests can book dining for entire trip; off-site guests book one day at a timeReservations open at 6:00 AM Eastern TimeSome popular restaurants book up quickly and require strategic planningWhen and How to Make ReservationsTiming: 60 days before...
2025-04-1627 minAll Things Travel PodcastAround the World Vacations: 3 Incredible Global Travel ExperiencesIn this exciting episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie explore three extraordinary around-the-world vacation options that promise unforgettable global adventures. They dive deep into unique travel experiences that allow travelers to explore multiple countries and continents in a single epic journey.Featured World Travel Experiences1. Royal Caribbean Ultimate World CruiseDuration: 274 nights (broken into 4 segments of approximately 60 nights each)Highlights: Visits 60+ countriesExplores 8 world wondersSegments include: Ultimate Americas (Dec 10 - Feb 11)Ultimate Asia Pacific (Feb 11 - May 9)Ultimate Africa and Southern Europe (Ma...
2025-04-0919 minAll Things Travel PodcastShoulder Season Travel: Insider Tips for Budget-Friendly and Less Crowded VacationsIn this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie dive deep into the world of shoulder season travel, sharing expert insights on how to plan the perfect vacation during off-peak times.What is Shoulder Season?Shoulder season is the travel period just before or after peak tourist season. Typically, this includes:Europe: April-May and September-OctoberCaribbean: April-June and October-NovemberAustralia/New Zealand: March-May and September-NovemberAdvantages of Shoulder Season TravelCost Savings: Lower prices on flights, accommodations, and activitiesFewer Crowds: Less...
2025-04-0218 min
Conversations with Rich BennettMagical Vacations Made Easy with Julie ShafferSponsored by Daniel McGhee and The Victory Team In this feel-good episode, Rich Bennett sits down with travel advisor and mom of three, Julie Shaffer, to talk all things family travel. From Disney magic to African safaris, Julie shares hilarious moments, expert tips, and her journey from physical therapist to vacation planner extraordinaire. Whether you’re planning a multigenerational cruise or wondering if toddlers and tropical getaways mix—this episode has answers (and laughs). Bonus: Find out why Iceland and the Galapagos should be on your radar! G...
2025-03-2852 minAll Things Travel PodcastDisney Secrets Revealed: Hidden Gems and Unexpected Magic for Your Next Trip Planning your family's Walt Disney World vacation? Most families focus on the big attractions, dining, and shows, but there's so much more to discover! In this episode, Ryan and Julie dive into the secret attractions and interactive experiences at Disney parks that will keep your kids entertained and make your trip even more magical. From scavenger hunts to themed challenges, we’ve got you covered!✨ In This Episode, We Discuss:A Pirate's Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas at Magic KingdomDisney’s DuckTales World Showcase Adventure at EPCOTWilderness Explorers Challenge at Animal KingdomSpike’s Pollin...
2025-03-2619 minAll Things Travel PodcastHow to Choose the Perfect Cruise Ship and Stateroom for Your Next VacationPlanning a cruise vacation can feel like learning a new language with all the ship options, stateroom categories, and abbreviations. In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie break down how to choose the right cruise ship and stateroom to match your vacation style and budget.In this episode, you'll learn:🚢 How to choose the perfect cruise ship based on your destination, departure port, and budget.🛏️ How to pick the right stateroom — from luxurious suites to budget-friendly interior rooms.🧒 Why your travel party's age and preferences matter when picking a cruise.🧳 Tips...
2025-03-1929 minAll Things Travel PodcastSay "I Do" to Paradise: Ultimate Honeymoon Destinations for Every CoupleIn this episode, travel advisors Ryan and Julie discuss their top recommended honeymoon destinations both internationally and within the United States. They provide expert insights on accommodations, activities, and planning tips to help couples create the perfect post-wedding getaway.For each destination we discuss suggested accommodations, travel considerations, and activities. International Honeymoon Destinations DiscussedSt. LuciaThe MaldivesItalyGreeceMexicoDomestic Honeymoon Destinations DiscussedHawaiiCharleston, SCSavannah, GA
2025-02-2623 minAll Things Travel PodcastDisney's Animal Kingdom: Ultimate Guide to Conquering Disney's Wildest ParkA comprehensive guide to touring Disney's Animal Kingdom, featuring insights from travel advisors Ryan and Julie. Learn optimal touring strategies for both families with young children and adults.Key Topics CoveredBest Touring Strategy for FamiliesRelaxed morning arrival recommended (no rope drop needed)Optimal ride sequence: Na'vi River Journey → Kilimanjaro Safari → Festival of the Lion KingStrategic Lightning Lane recommendations for Flight of PassageAfternoon activities including Discovery Island trails and the Boneyard playgroundCharacter dining at Tusker House RestaurantAdult/Older Kids Touring Plan...
2025-02-1920 minAll Things Travel PodcastPrivate Islands & Perfect Beach Days: Why You Need One on Your Next CruiseEver looked at your cruise itinerary and thought, where the heck is that island? Chances are, it's one of the cruise line’s private islands—and trust us, you’ll want to visit! 🏝️ In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie break down the best private islands, what makes them special, and why they should be part of your next cruise vacation.Key Topics Covered:🌊 Why Private Islands Are a Must-Do on a CruiseNo need for excursions—just step off the ship and enj...
2025-02-0532 minAll Things Travel PodcastEpcot for Everyone: Family Fun, Adult Adventures, and Top Touring TipsEpcot isn’t just for adults or thrill seekers—it’s a park with something for everyone! 🎡✨ In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie share the ultimate guide to enjoying Epcot, whether you’re visiting with kids, older teens, or as an adult group. From navigating rides to dining options and hidden gems, this episode is your blueprint for a magical day.Key Topics Covered:👨👩👧👦 Epcot with Kids:Perfect itineraries for kids under 4 and adventurous older kidsTop kid-friendly attractions: Seas with Nemo & Friends, Living with the Land, and Turtle Talk w...
2025-01-2927 minAll Things Travel PodcastMastering Magic Kingdom: Expert Tips for Touring with Kids and AdultsPlanning a trip to Magic Kingdom can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easy! 🎢✨ In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie share their ultimate touring strategies for Magic Kingdom—whether you’re visiting with kids, teens, or as an adults-only group. From rope-dropping the best rides to choosing dining spots, this guide has everything you need to make your day magical.Key Topics Covered:👶 Touring Magic Kingdom with Kids:Why rope-dropping Fantasyland is a game-changerThe perfect morning itinerary: Peter Pan’s Flight, Dumbo, I...
2025-01-2224 minAll Things Travel PodcastHow to Plan Your Travel Dreams: Mapping Out Trips for the Next 5 Years (and beyond)Are you ready to take control of your travel plans and make your dream trips a reality? 🌍 In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie share their top tips for mapping out your vacations over the next 5–10 years. From setting travel priorities to creating a realistic budget, we’ll guide you step-by-step to ensure you make the most of your time, budget, and experiences.Key Topics Covered:🗺️ Why Plan Long-Term?How to align your trips with milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, or graduationsWhy planning ahead creates excitement a...
2025-01-1516 min