Vol. 2/ Issue 2/ Feb. 2024 Cruising Iceland Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Fossil Hun�ng in Norfolk UK Explore NYC & Upstate NY Asheville Small Weddings Historic Kansas Routes Southeast Sojourns Experience the Southwest California Farm Fun Vaca�on Planning
TRAVEL & LEISURE ISSUE
CONTENTS BIG WEEKLY BLEND 5. Editors Block
GLOBAL ADVENTURES 8. Cruising Iceland 12. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico 16. Fossil Hun�ng in Norfolk
TRAVEL AMERICA 20. Lake Placid’s Olympic Legacy 26. Explore Steuben County NY 28. Six New York City Must-Dos 30. Small Weddings in Asheville 32. Historic Kansas Routes 34. Southeast Sojourns 36. Fun in the Sun in Sco�sdale 44. Experience the Southwest 48. California Farm Adventures
TRAVEL PLANNING 50. Ready to Plan Your Next Vaca�on? 53. Big Blend’s Expert Travel Community
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EDITORS BLOCK “A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” Oliver Wendell Holmes The winter holidays are over and now it’s �me to set sail into the vast world of adventure. From cruising Iceland and fossil hun�ng in England to taking cooking classes in Cabo San Lucas, and exploring the Empire State, we hope this special vaca�on planning issue helps whet your travel appe�te and ul�mately pack your bags for new experiences around the globe, and across the country. When it comes to traveling across America, this issue features ar�cles and podcast interviews covering the sunshine-laden desert southwest, central California’s colorful farm country, the vibrant Big Apple and upstate New York, the beau�ful southeastern states of North Carolina, Arkansas, and Florida, along with the historic routes and highways of Kansas. Podcasts share expert advice on historic inns and bou�que lodging des�na�ons, unique cruising opportuni�es, how to save money on major a�rac�ons, and riding the rails of Amtrak. And, speaking of expert advice, we also share a new sec�on in the magazine that connects you with our Big Blend Expert Travel Community that is made up of travel writers, authors, and photographers, as well as travel advisors, tour guides, and regional des�na�on specialists. These days with Ar�ficial Intelligence content weaving its way into the online informa�on highway, we believe it is important to know the source, and in the case of travel, that the experts have truly “been there and done that.”
FRONT COVER IMAGE: A Puffin & His Breakfast by Rose Palmer. See her Iceland Story on Page 8
BIG BLEND MISSION STATEMENT: Big Blend is a company based on the belief that education is the most formidable weapon that can be waged against fear, ignorance and prejudice. It is our belief that education starts at home and branches outward. Education leads to travel, and travel leads to understanding, acceptance, and appreciation of cultures and customs different to our own, and ultimately to world Lastly, this travel issue is the launch of our Big peace. Our company is further based on the Weekly Blend Magazine becoming a specialty principle that networking, communication, and curated digital publica�on that features a new helping others to promote and market theme of focus each week. themselves leads to financial stability; thus Keep up with our weekly publica�ons by paving the way to better education, travel, and subscribing to our Big Blend e-Newsle�er, a the spirit of giving back to the community. This podcas�ng and trvel team.,nd for our daily Big magazine is developed by Big Blend Magazine™, Blend Radio podcasts, follow us on Facebook, copyrighted since 1997. No part of it may be Instagram, Twi�er (X), YouTube, Apple, or reproduced for any reason, without written Spo�fy. permission from Big Blend Magazine. Although every effort is made to be accurate, we cannot be Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith held responsible for inaccuracies or plagiarized Big Blend’s mother-daughter publishing, copy submitted to us by advertisers or podcas�ng, and travel team. contributors. PAGE 5
Story & Photos by Rose Palmer
Ge�ng off the Zodiac PAGE 8
The MS Seaventure I flung open the curtains to my balcony door and was greeted by a verdant green mountain capped with a white glacial peak which was reflected in the icy blue waters of a calm bay. This was the Iceland I had hoped to see, and it was just the first hour of the first morning on board the expedi�on vessel MS Seaventure.
Rose Palmer on Big Blend Radio: Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
I was on a 10-day circumnaviga�on cruise with Iceland ProCruises that had started the a�ernoon before. We le� out of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, literally sailing into a beau�ful sunset. During the night, as I was lulled to sleep by the gently rocking mo�on, the ship made its way to our first stop on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. I was not cruising on one of the large cruise ships this �me, but rather on an expedi�on ship that had been specially built for polar explora�ons. During the winter months, the MS Seaventure toured to and from Antarc�ca. But in the summer months, Iceland ProCruises chartered the ship for their unique tours around Iceland and Greenland. This was my first experience with an expedi�on ship, and I was surprised at its roominess and high level of comfort. I had always envisioned expedi�on ships to be bare bones and basic, but this was quite the opposite. The ship had only 82 cabins, all with portholes, windows, or balconies (no interior cabins at all). With the excep�on of the two larger suites, all the cabins were the same size and felt quite roomy. My balcony cabin had all the usual ameni�es I had come to expect on larger ships.
There were two twin beds (which could be combined into one bed), a huge amount of closet and cabinet space, a fridge, a TV, and a desk with two chairs. The en-suite bathroom was also roomy and had all the necessary ameni�es including a walk-in shower, nice toiletries, and fluffy towels. What surprised me most though were the many large, public spaces on board. The Seabreeze lounge was the main gathering spot for relaxing a�er excursions. There were more than enough lounge chairs for everyone on board. A baby grand piano provided some of the evening entertainment and the bar and its staff were more than happy to keep everyone’s whistles wet throughout the day.
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Con�nued on Next Page…
Local Lobster for Dinner
Tas�ng Icelandic Beers
With a wall of forward-facing floor-to-ceiling windows, the top deck’s Expedi�on Lounge was the perfect spot for watching the scenery go by as we cruised and for the many informa�ve lectures. There were also outdoor deck spaces with lounge chairs and also a small pool.
Each day of the cruise brought us to a different loca�on along Iceland’s coast. As with other cruises I have been on, I had a choice of excursions at every port at an addi�onal cost. The excursions ranged from easy ac�vity levels (bus tours) to more ac�ve hiking tours. There was definitely something for every ability level and interest.
Iceland Con�nued…
The other surprise was the elegant dining room and all the delicious meals served there each day. Iceland ProCruises brought an Icelandic chef on board and he and his team outdid themselves. The breakfast and lunch buffets had a wide variety of hot and cold choices for all dietary needs and limita�ons. The a la carte dinner menu always offered a fresh, local seafood op�on along with meat and vegetarian dishes. And the desserts were always divine. My first morning in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula started with our first zodiac tour of the coastline around the hamlet of Anarstapi. This was my first �me on a zodiac and the Seaventure crew made it all very effortless. A metal pla�orm with stairs and railings led down to the zodiac and the crew helped us all to safely get in and out. The Seaventure is a small ship and most of the �me was able to dock in the ports where the larger ships could not. But in very small harbors, like the one at Anarstapi, we used the zodiacs to get to land. Throughout the cruise, we also had short zodiac tours to explore out-of-the-way sec�ons of the coastline which provided a completely unique perspec�ve.
It was with the excursions and the guides that led them that I thought Iceland ProCruises really excelled. The company is Icelandic owned and operated and all the guides were Icelandic. Because our guides were local, we got insights into Icelandic culture that were authen�c and unique. The guides were happy to answer all our ques�ons, no ma�er how mundane. They were also very knowledgeable about the geography, the flora, the fauna, and of course, the history of their country. Each night, the ship’s crew sailed the ship to our next des�na�on and every day we discovered a new loca�on as we circumnavigated the island. We stopped at many of the popular cruise ship ports, like Isal�ordur and Husavik where we had excursions to some of Iceland’s most remarkable waterfalls including Dynjandi, De�foss, and Godafoss. But we also had stops at lesser visited loca�ons like Grimsey Island located on the Arc�c Circle and Westman Island where we got to see the effects of a huge volcanic erup�on from 50 years ago. My absolute favorite stop though was the private, li�le island of Flatey. The island has just a few
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A puffin and his breakfast catch Rainbow Street in Reykjavik
holiday homes and a church and only Iceland ProCruises is allowed to bring their guests there. The big draw to this stop was the many puffin colonies. Because the island is not overrun with people, the puffins were not disturbed by our presence, and I was able to get rela�vely close. My Iceland ProCruises circumnaviga�on trip gave me everything I was looking for in a cruise around Iceland. I was able to experience the major cultural and scenic highlights as well as some off-thebeaten-path sights with knowledgeable local guides. And all in complete comfort while unpacking and repacking only once over the course of 10 days. Visit h�ps://www.icelandprocruises.com/ Godafoss Waterfall
Rose Palmer believes that life is a patchwork of experiences. Traveling the world is one of her deepest passions which con�nues to add to her ever-growing quilt of life experiences. She likes to focus her traveling lens on art, architecture, history, nature, and so� adventure with a touch of luxury. Rose shares her award-winning stories and photos on her blog www.Quiltripping.com PAGE 11
FALLING IN LOVE WITH CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO By Eva Eldridge
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Enchilada The first thing we did a�er picking up our rental car, which has its own tale, was find food. We stopped at a li�le hole-in-the-wall place with a cart and two tables. They pulled out another plas�c table and two chairs to accommodate us al fresco, which is typical in the Cabo area. We ordered a bowl of birria and a couple of tacos—lengua (tongue). The food was excellent. We sipped our sodas and watched the local people stop by for tacos-to-go and chat with the owners. One of the reasons we picked this place was the available parking. Eva Eldridge on Big Blend Radio: Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
Recently, my husband and I traveled to Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico. I fell in love, not just with my husband but with the scenery, the people, the food, and even the crazy driving. Located on the southern �p of Baja California Sur, the area is a juxtaposi�on of arid rocks and sand, a rugged coastline, and mountains covered with abundant vegeta�on. With an annual rainfall of a mere seven inches, the desert landscape is only green a�er the rainy season. Our visit followed Hurricane Norma and the southern peninsula was vibrantly green. If you weren’t familiar with the area, you could believe it was that way all the �me.
Parking is an issue in most of the Cabo area. We had a rental car, but we also used Uber to avoid parking issues. The Uber service worked perfectly for us, and the drivers had their own stories which we found interes�ng. We stayed in an Airbnb condo a mile or so uphill from downtown Cabo San Lucas. We had a sliver of an ocean view, but not of downtown. There are vaca�on homes, Airbnb, and many resorts to choose from depending on what your focus might be. We like ge�ng a feel for the area and some�mes resorts insulate you from that which is why we chose to stay at an Airbnb. The condo we rented was new and beau�ful, but we lacked access to any beach. If you want beach access, check into the resorts.
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Con�nued on Next Page…
Avocado Toast
Cabo Con�nued… The lack of beaches surprised me. I had expecta�ons of palapas and drinks on white sand. Because Cabo is located on the �p of Baja California, the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez co-mingle waters and create a steep shoreline with a lot of undertow. There are a couple of beaches where swimming is safer but make sure you can get there and double-check the water condi�ons before you swim. There are numerous short cruises available from the local tourist companies along with deep-sea fishing and swimming with dolphins. Other ac�vi�es offered in the area are cooking classes and tas�ng tours. We chose a cooking class that included going to the Mercado and picking out our vegetables, limes, and fresh chicken. The limes needed to be smooth and a li�le so�, and the chicken had yellow chicken fat that wasn’t factory-grown, but raised by local farms. We picked out deep green and shiny poblano chilies and round white onions. Chef Francisco led us on a local tour through the San Juan del Cabo Mercado followed by a trip to a tor�lla factory. Their corn tor�llas were the best. The class took place in Chef Francisco’s home where we learned how to make hibiscus margaritas using fresh lime juice, followed by roasted poblanos in crema, the complex steps of molé crea�on, and finally the meal. Molé is a dish consis�ng of a minimum of 30 or more ingredients including dried chilies, spices, nuts, fresh tomatoes, a tor�lla, bread, and chocolate. It was served over the chicken we purchased at the Mercado that was boiled to make broth and the tender fragrant meat. It was worth spending the day learning some of the customs and food of the local area.
We ate out several �mes and found the food wonderful, especially breakfast. We found local restaurants in �ght li�le streets where parking was a challenge, but worth the effort. One of the area’s special�es was green juice, and jugo verde. The recipe varied depending on the restaurant. Most contained nopales, celery, and either pineapple or orange juice. Lime, parsley, avocado, apple, spinach, kale, or avocado could be part of the juice. Each one I experienced was different and delicious. It was a great way to have something a li�le healthy. If you want to eat at your temporary residence there are large grocery stores like the Fresko, besides many li�le bodegas and quick-mart type stores. The Fresko was similar to walking into any large full-service grocery store in the United States with gourmet meats and cheeses, bakery, fruits and vegetables, and everything in between. The mercados were more like local farmers' markets here in the States. For me, everything was an easy transi�on and I enjoyed finding new things in all the stores. As with any tourist town, there are many li�le shops where you can buy souvenirs, art, jewelry, po�ery, and many other things. I found some beau�ful hand-painted po�ery in a small shop near San Juan del Cabo along with beaded ironwood figures. One shop had lovely shawls made in the Oaxaca area. Vanilla is a popular item for purchase and can be found everywhere. As with anything, the quality of the items varies, so be aware. One thing we no�ced while in Cabo was all the cisterns located on roofs all over the city. We originally believed they were used for rainwater
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Cevice with Black Sauce collec�on, but over �me we no�ced the large amount of water trucks that were everywhere nearly twenty-four hours a day. The municipal water system supplied by the aquifer and desalina�on plant is inadequate to keep up with the demand.
Chicken with Mole
There are days when water does not run in the pipes, so the residents have installed cisterns and pump systems to store and provide water during the dry �mes. The water trucks fill in when the cisterns get low and the city water hasn’t been able to compensate. It’s quite ingenious and as tourists, I believe we should know about the water system so we can do our part to help conserve this precious commodity.
There are many traffic circles and stop signs are just a sugges�on. Be courteous. I found that if you waited for the first driver to go through an intersec�on, the other drivers would let you through. It worked something like the four-way stop here in the USA. Watch how the local drivers handle entrances and exits on the highways. It can be a bit in�mida�ng and watch for the speed bumps. They can sneak up on you.
Everywhere we went, we found the locals friendly and helpful even if they didn’t speak English. Many people moved to Cabo to work in the tourist trade in varied capaci�es. They were there for a job and understood their livelihood depended on us pesky tourists. The ones who could speak English talked to us about where they came from and their families. Many were paid be�er than they would have been in their hometowns. We depended on the locals to get us around and to point out places to eat or the best place to shop.
The last word of advice would be about the airport. Be aware of the friendly people who can make you deals on places to stay, cars to rent, the best tequila, and tours. They may not tell you the whole story and lead you down a path you weren’t expec�ng. As with any travel be aware of your surroundings and enjoy the local customs and people.
If you decide to rent a car and drive yourself, be aware that traffic moves differently in Mexico. Stop lights are mostly stop lights, but not always.
Eva Eldridge is a contribu�ng writer for Big Blend Magazines. Along with travel and lifestyle ar�cles, she also writes fic�on and poetry. She was editor of the Tucson Sisters in Crime anthology, “Trouble in Tucson.” Visit her at www.EvaEldridge.com
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By Glynn Burrows
Search the shoreline for fossils
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Cromer Beach, in Norfolk, England Glynn Burrows on Big Blend Radio: Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
I usually talk about quite recent history, from the last couple of thousand years, so this ar�cle is a li�le bit more ancient, as I’m discussing a �me when humans were in the area, but they were a species long since ex�nct. The best �me of year to look for fossils on the beaches of Norfolk is during the winter, as the beaches are less crowded, and the weather o�en reveals hitherto hidden items during the �dal erosion of the high �des. Due to the various dangers of walking on the beaches, it is impera�ve that you follow some very important safety rules: Make sure that you are allowed to be where you are. (Some areas are privately owned; some are protected, and some areas are restricted access due to safety reasons.) Always find out the �de �mes and allow plenty of �me to get out of the area before high �de. Work as the �de goes out, as it o�en reveals new finds as well as allowing more �me for hun�ng. Wear sensible clothing and strong boots. Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged. Do not walk near the base of the cliff edges and NEVER dig into the cliff face. Just pick up the fossils you find lying on the surface. Do not disturb wildlife. Take a bucket for your finds and, if you find something large, or of specific interest, mark it, photograph it, and report it to the local museum service.
Saying all of that, fossil hun�ng can make a walk along the beach into a real adventure back in �me. If you are a beginner, get a book from the library and visit local museums to see their collec�ons. You will soon see what sorts of fossils are likely to turn up on your walk and museum staff will be only too happy to help you to iden�fy your finds if you ask. Some areas are especially rich in fossils and West Runton is one of our most famous. It was where the Mammoth Skeleton was discovered by two local residents in 1990. They were walking along the beach and no�ced a large bone s�cking out of the cliff. Con�nued on Next Page…
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Mammoth Bones at Cromer Museum
Fossils Con�nued… They contacted the museum service and it was iden�fied as a Steppe Mammoth. The next year, more bones were discovered and, in 1995, a fullscale excava�on was carried out.
Man has inhabited some areas of Norfolk since the Stone Age, so you may even discover their flint tools, but do be very careful, flint is excep�onally sharp!
The mammoth was found to be in a deposit of mud which was laid down around 700,000 years ago and alongside snails, small mammals, such as hyenas, giant beavers, big cats, deer, horses, rhinoceros, and elephants.
The oldest human footprints outside Africa were found in Norfolk and they are thought to be between 850,000 The mammoth was a male, around two-thirds of his and 950,000 years usual life of sixty years, he stood about 12-13 feet old and are thought tall at the shoulder and would have weighed to have been le� around 22,000 lbs., (twice as much as a present by a group of longAfrican elephant). This species was the largest ex�nct human elephant that has ever lived and the largest ever species. They were land animal except for the biggest of the dinosaurs. not, at that �me, walking along a The best places to look are in the rock pools and the beach though. They shingle parts of the beach and you are likely to find were walking “belemnites” and “sea urchins.” The first are shaped through a river like a bullet and are actually from a squid-like valley, graced by creature. The sea urchins look like a starfish mammoths, hippos, wrapped around a pebble. and rhinos. There were at least five Other possible finds include amber and mammoth individuals, teeth but, while you are looking for long-gone including children, creatures, don’t overlook the ones you find that s�ll and one of the inhabit the area. You will find crabs, starfish, men had feet anemones, and even the odd stranded fish. Treat all which today would areas and their inhabitants with respect and don’t have required a UK damage or destroy what is a very delicate and size eight (US size important area of nature. 9) shoe. PAGE 18
A jellyfish le� on the beach as the �de went out
These footprints are the first direct evidence of people this far North in Europe. There was other evidence, in the form of flint tools, etc., but these footprints are unique at the moment, although local people are constantly on the lookout for more evidence, especially during the Winter months. We o�en go to the seaside in the Winter, as it helps to blow away the cobwebs, so looking for fossils makes the coastal walks that bit more exci�ng. Glynn provides customized, private tours and also helps his clients trace their English family history. Past guests have visited and experienced stately houses and gardens, castles and churches, ruins and villages, birding and wildlife, World War II airfields, and general area taster tours too. Accommoda�ons can be in all types of establishment, from character buildings such as windmills, thatched co�ages and castles, self-catering or five star luxury – just say what you want and it can be arranged. Nothing is too much trouble for Glynn! Visit www.NorfolkTours.co.uk
West Runton Beach in Norfolk, where the Mammoth was found Mammoth Bone from West Runton Beach in Norfolk
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by Debbie Stone
Quite the view from the ski jump tower PAGE 20
Olympic Center with the oval in front, photo courtesy of the Olympic Authority I experienced a bit of height-induced anxiety as I stood atop the 128-meter Olympic Ski Jump tower in Lake Placid. Peering down from this imposing launching point that ski jumpers use when they soar through the air made me dizzy. And I was only standing there! I couldn’t begin to imagine the act of doing something like this – ever! Shaking my head in disbelief, I repeatedly mu�ered, “They must be insane!”
Debbie Stone on Big Blend Radio: Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
There are many events at the Winter Olympics featuring athletes performing numerous feats of athle�cism and strength while high in the air. Of them, it’s said that none blur the line between jumping and flying quite as much as ski jumping. It’s physics in ac�on. The athletes fight gravity as they stay airborne for several seconds while traveling the length of a football field at speeds that can reach 60 mph. The one who travels the furthest and who flies and lands with the best style is awarded the most points and deemed the winner.
Jumping Complex, and The Olympic Center. The fourth is Whiteface Mountain, the site of the Olympic alpine events. Visitors can purchase the Lake Placid Legacy Sites Passport to gain access to these facili�es and par�cipate in some fun ac�vi�es along the way.
It’s hard not to be awe-struck by the courage of these fearless athletes. My admira�on and respect for Olympic athletes con�nued to magnify throughout my tour of three of the four Lake Placid Legacy Sites: Mt. Van Hoevenberg, The Olympic
It's interes�ng to see these sites, which were originally constructed for the 1932 Winter Olympics and further built upon for the 1980 Winter Olympics. Lake Placid is one of three loca�ons in Con�nued on Next Page…
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Ski -jumper at World Cup, photo courtesy of Olympic Authority Lake Placid Con�nued… the world that have hosted two Winter Olympics: the others being Innsbruck, Austria, and St. Moritz, Switzerland.
Inside is an indoor bobsled and luge push track and sprint track for training year-round. It’s the only one of its kind in the country.
It’s most impressive, however, to learn that today Lake Placid’s venues con�nue to host visitors and events and serve as training grounds for Olympic hopefuls in a mul�tude of winter sports. A far cry from a number of other past Winter Olympic locales, where the facili�es lie mostly dormant and unused.
Popular with visitors to Mt. Van Hoevenberg is the on-track bobsled experience and the new Cliffside Coaster, the longest mountain roller coaster in North America. The la�er puts you in the driver’s seat of the 1980 Olympic Sliding Track for a ride where you can control the speed through the hairpin turns, banks, and winding track.
At Mt. Van Hoevenberg, numerous spor�ng events occur, including bobsled, skeleton, luge, biathlon, and cross-country skiing in the winter, along with indoor climbing, and biking in the summer. Over the years, there have been several upgrades at Mt. Van Hoevenberg. The bobsled, luge, and skeleton tracks were combined into one technically challenging track. And there’s now an upgraded covering and refrigera�on system, which extends the season for the track, as well as ensures an even and fair compe��ve environment for sliders. Also, new pla�orm areas allow spectators to get great views all along the track.
A visit to the aforemen�oned Olympic Jumping Complex starts with a trip on Skyride, a state-ofthe-art, eight-passenger gondola that offers the same bird’s eye view of the jump’s landing hill, as it whisks you up to the base of the ski jumping towers. From there, you’ll ascend to the top of the ski jump tower in a glass-enclosed elevator. The perspec�ve is breathtaking, not only of the jump ramp itself but of the surrounding Adirondack scenery. And if you want a real adrenaline boost that emulates the flight of ski jumping, opt to ride the Sky Flyer zipline. The experience follows the 100-meter ski jump and reaches upwards of 30 mph.
Another upgrade features an expanded biathlon range and the world’s largest, most powerful snow-making system for Nordic skiing. A new lodge with shops and dining was also built recently.
The Adirondack Park, which was created in 1892, covers 9,375 square miles. It’s as big as Vermont and nearly three �mes the size of Yellowstone Na�onal Park, making it the largest park in the
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The arena where David championed over Goliath in the famed U.S. vs Russia hockey game 1980 con�guous U.S. There is no entrance nor entry fee into this verdant playground.
Story has it that he nearly missed one of his races, having overslept a�er staying up late to catch the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team in the Olympic Center ice arena – the same team that went on to win the Gold Medal that year in a David vs. Goliath, Miracle on Ice story for all �me.
The park boasts 46 high peaks of over 4,000 each, 2,800 lakes and ponds, and more than 1,500 miles of rivers. It’s es�mated that seven to 12.4 million people visit the Adirondacks annually. This isn’t surprising considering the park is within a day’s drive for roughly one-quarter of the country’s popula�on. Located right in the heart of Lake Placid is the Olympic Center. It’s hallowed ice, home to many special moments in Lake Placid’s history. The arenas and Olympic Oval here remain a highly used sports and events hub, hos�ng hundreds of tournaments, hockey and ska�ng camps, and na�onal and interna�onal compe��ons. Locals and visitors also benefit from these venues, as they are welcome to come and skate on the ice, too. Among those who have trained and competed at the Center are some well-known names, such as two-�me Olympic Gold Medalist Dick Bu�on, Olympic Gold Medalist, and four-�me World Champion Sco� Hamilton, Olympic Gold Medalist Nathan Chen, and three-�me Norwegian Olympic Gold Medalist Sonja Henie. Strolling through the hallways, you’ll see plaques and banners spotligh�ng achievements of the past. So many remarkable performances took place here. Outside on the Oval, for example, is where Eric Heiden dominated men’s speedska�ng, winning five Gold Medals in the 1980 Winter Olympics, a feat that’s never been accomplished again in any sport in Winter Olympic history.
Standing in the Herb Brooks Arena, named for the coach of said hockey team, elicits incredible memories and emo�ons, even decades later. It was an electrifying game, not only for the victory but for the manner in which it was achieved. Young American, amateur athletes pi�ed against the domina�ng Soviet hockey professionals had unlikely odds of winning. But it was the belief in themselves that made the 4 to 3 final score a reality for this underdog American team. On a wall outside the arena hangs a part of the original scoreboard for that “Miracle on Ice” game. Below it sits two original stadium seats – a scene that is definitely a pic magnet for visitors. Within the Center is the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, the “official chronicler of the region’s glory and keeper of its history’s tangible ves�ges.” Step inside for an immersive experience that not only informs but inspires visitors with state-of-theart, interac�ve displays, historic film footage, and countless ar�facts. Among the many displays are Olympic torches, pins, uniforms, equipment, mascots, the first gold medal ever awarded, and other memorabilia that bring to life the Olympic memories and achievements from the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. Con�nued on Next Page…
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Posters from past Winter Olympics
Indoor bobsled and luge push track Lake Placid Con�nued… You’ll get caught up in the human spirit and the perseverance of Olympic champions, as you hear their stories. And you’ll learn that making it to the Olympics, whether one medals or not, is an arduous journey requiring immense personal sacrifice and dedica�on.
the public beach. Get your steps in by walking its 2.7-mile, flat circumference while taking in the dreamy views along the way.
The interac�ve exhibits are a definite highlight, as they put you in the middle of the ac�on as you hurtle down a bobsled run, speed skate around the oval, or experience the rush of a ski jump. Don’t miss the cap�va�ng “Miracle on Ice” documentary, screened in the theater room. It’s a must-watch, cinema�c gem that’s guaranteed to s�r emo�ons and leave you burs�ng with pride. I’ve been told by a credible source that Lake Placid would love to host another Winter Olympics in the future. The venues are all there and the weather gods are consistently favorable in regard to snow in the region. So, the wheels are turning… When you’re done touring the Lake Placid Legacy Sites, spend some �me strolling through town. Main Street in this charming alpine village is full of eclec�c shops, restaurants, cafes, tas�ng rooms, and brew pubs. Most are posi�oned parallel to Mirror Lake, the centerpiece of Lake Placid. Enjoy this lovely, reflec�ve body of water from one of two parks or
As for Lake Placid, the town’s namesake, you’ll need a boat for access. If you don’t have your own watercra�, don’t despair. In summer, a one-hour tour boat leaves port several �mes a day, taking passengers to the foot of Whiteface Landing, before returning. You’ll get a good look at several of the small, picturesque islands in the lake while learning about the area via an informa�ve narra�on. You might be familiar with the lake if you’ve read A Lady in the Lake by Lake Placid na�ve George Chris�an Ortloff, as it features prominently in the book. It’s a true story of the mystery of the perfectly preserved body of Mabel Douglass (a Dean of New Jersey College), who was discovered in the cold waters of Lake Placid, thirty years a�er she disappeared while rowing on the lake. Douglass was found with a rope around her neck, a�ached to a 50-pound weight. Homebase for me during my stay in Lake Placid was the Grand Adirondack Hotel. Conveniently located on Main Street, this historic property offers a sophis�cated, yet casual atmosphere with a modern touch. Rooms are comfy and amenity rich. I par�cularly appreciated the hotel’s onsite
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Mirror Lake restaurant, Marcy, and its sister, Marcy Bar. You’ll have no problem fueling up for the day’s ac�vi�es a�er breakfast at Marcy, where the offerings include such yummy dishes as the Breakfast Skillet, Roasted Mushroom & Gruyere Omelet, or Malted Belgian Waffle. At night, head next door to Marcy Bar for cra� cocktails and an assortment of small plates and entrees – everything from fish & chips, burgers, and seared scallops to escargot and even pou�ne, a French Canadian concoc�on consis�ng of French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy. It’s a nod to our neighbors in the north, who, from Lake Placid, are a mere hop and a skip away. Plan Your Visit: www.lakeplacidlegacysites.com www.lakeplacid.com Debbie Stone is an established travel writer and columnist, who crosses the globe in search of unique des�na�ons and experiences to share with her readers and listeners. She’s an avid explorer who welcomes new opportuni�es to increase awareness and enthusiasm for places, culture, food, history, nature, outdoor adventure, wellness, and more. Her travels have taken her to nearly 100 countries spanning all seven con�nents, and her stories appear in numerous print and digital publica�ons.
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Enjoy dinner at Marcy
1886 Terrace courtesy Dr. Konstan�n Frank Winery, Explore Steuben This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA features Dave DeGolyer from Explore Steuben, who shares what to experience in Corning and Steuben County, up in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Between the extraordinary landscape and outdoor adventures, the charming small towns, the variety and affordability of ac�vi�es, the accessibility of the region, the first-rate culinary op�ons, world-renowned art, and the laid-back, unpreten�ous vibe that dis�nguishes the region’s personality, it’s difficult to find anywhere quite like Steuben County. Plan your visit at h�ps://www.corningfingerlakes.com/ Photo to right: Historic Pat II on Keuka Lake
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New York Public Library's Schwarzman Building Museum of Broadway
It's all about the Big Apple on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone." Hear all about the Apollo Theater, Museum of Ice Cream, Tenement Museum, Museum of Broadway, High Line Park, and the NYC Library. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
Check out Debbie's NYC Ar�cles & Photos: * Apollo Theater h�p://�nyurl.com/bddjf4z5 * Museum of Broadway h�p://�nyurl.com/22ae2zsr * Museum of Ice Cream h�p://�nyurl.com/ycy7at89 * Tenement Museum h�p://�nyurl.com/3cw89tjy * High Line Park h�p://�nyurl.com/pacmxkya * NYC Library h�p://�nyurl.com/yzpkyc5s
Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: h�p://�nyurl.com/m6z7v6ms
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…in Asheville, North Carolina Mountain Weddings by Jay Schulz This 1898 residence is in a quiet residen�al neighborhood within walking distance to downtown Asheville and its many a�rac�ons. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah Na�onal Forest, and Biltmore Estate are just minutes away. Their historic property features beau�ful indoor and outdoor loca�ons for your in�mate ceremony.
This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Tuesday "Adventures in Asheville" Show focuses on unique small weddings and elopements in Asheville, North Carolina. Hear about ge�ng hitched on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a historic Victorian Mansion, a record store, and more, plus, roman�c places that may lead to that special engagement! Featured guests are Steve & Karen Wilson who own and operate The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, and photographer Jay Schulz who owns Spartan Photography. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
Couples can choose to get married in front of one of their magnificent fireplaces, on the front veranda, or next to their private gardens. Available for couples spending 2+ nights, the Lion & The Rose B&B’s special Mountain Bliss Elopement Package includes a wedding officiant, fresh flower bouquet,
Celebrate your love with a roman�c des�na�on wedding in Asheville. Take the stress out of elaborate wedding planning and simply say "I do" at The Lion & The Rose Bed and Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Mon�ord Historic District. PAGE 30
The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast
Garden Elopement at The Lion and The Rose wedding cake, bo�le of champagne, plus digital copies of photos will be shared via social media and email (photography by the innkeepers). New for 2024, couples can now upgrade for a wedding in the mountains or by a waterfall! More: h�ps://www.lion-rose.com/
Magical Mountain Weddings - Drone Photography by Jay Schulz
When it comes to photography for weddings and engagements, re�red Army Officer Jay Schulz, owner of Spartan Photography, enjoys flying his drone to capture aerial images as well as interac�ng with people to capture the actual event and individual portraits. Learn more about his services and view his work at: h�ps://spartanphotography.zenfolio.com/ Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show: h�p://�nyurl.com/3ewrb9b4 Wedding Party Fun - Jay Schulz
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HISTORIC KANSAS ROUTES & HIGHWAYS
Experience the Jefferson Highway, Route 66, Santa Fe Trail, Pony Express Trail, and more…
CELEBRATE THE SUNFLOWER STATE
From Dodge City to Paola, this episode of Big Blend Radio celebrates Kansas, "The Sunflower State," which was admi�ed to the Union as our 34th US State on January 29, 1861. Along with some music, movie, and literary pop culture, hear about the state's history, parks, and famous travel routes like Route 66 and the
Jefferson Highway, and the Santa Fe and Pony Express Na�onal Historic Trails. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Check out our Big Blend Radio Podcast Playlist of Kansas related interviews on YouTube: h�p://�nyurl.com/pc9nhces
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JEFFERSON HIGHWAY IN PAOLA, KANSAS
This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the history of the highway in Paola, Kansas. Founded in 1915, this interna�onal highway is also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," and runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
Featured guests include Roger Bell - President of the Jefferson Highway Associa�on; Ruby Brewer Middle School Student who advocated for the Jefferson Highway Sign to be placed at her school; Debbie Hayes – Paola City Council Member, and Dan Dooli�le - Paola Middle School Teacher. Learn more about the historic Jefferson Highway at h�ps://jeffersonhighway.org/
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Podcast Spotlights on Florida & Arkansas
FABULOUS FLORIDA From St. Augus�ne to the Everglades and beyond, this episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writers Kathleen Walls and Diane Dobry. Hear about parks and des�na�ons, historic sites and haunted history, food, and drink and more. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Kathleen Walls is a travel writer and author of numerous Florida books. Visit h�p://www.katywalls.com/ and h�ps://www.americanroads.net/
Diane Dobry is a travel writer, podcaster, and memoirist. More: h�ps://discoverydaze.com and h�ps://hungarianaquarian.com/ Check out our Big Blend Radio archive of expert Florida podcasts with travel writers, authors, musicians, ar�sts, historians, and more on YouTube h�p://�nyurl.com/ykw79ryk
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AMAZING ARKANSAS
This episode of Big Blend Radio features Tiffany Bertram, innkeeper and owner of Tiffany's Bed & Breakfast near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Hear about the Natural State's parks and des�na�ons, music and movie pop culture, food, history, and more.
Check out Tiffany's B&B here: h�ps://www.�ffanysbedandbreakfast.com/
Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
You can also listen to this podcast while piecing together or online jigsaw puzzle of the Playing Cards Mural in Hot Springs at h�p://�nyurl.com/5jpwzsme
Listen to our Arkansas Music Playlist on YouTube: h�p://�nyurl.com/8yddwpn2
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Story and Photos by Judy Karnia
Andaz Sco�sdale Resort and Bungalows. Photo by Judy Karnia PAGE 36
Old Town Sco�sdale Travel writer Judy Karnia on Big Blend Radio: Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
Exploring Downtown Sco�sdale
At the heart of Downtown Sco�sdale lies the Civic Center, a park with space for fes�vals, concerts, strolling, and relaxing. Two picturesque stages front sloping lawns with areas of shade. Surrounding these are a xeriscape garden, splash area, playground, fountains, sculptures, and many bistro tables along the paths. On the edges of the park sit museums, the main library, City Hall, and a few restaurants. Just to the east is the area known as Old Town due to the Old West look of covered sidewalks with wooden posts and hanging lantern lights. Most days see a throng of tourists buying turquoise jewelry, prickly pear candy, or t-shirts with clever sayings about the desert. Depending on the ages of your group, you can grab a drink at Rusty Spur Saloon or ice cream at Sugar Bowl, which have both been welcoming visitors since the 1950s. Other op�ons include a �ki bar, Italian and Mexican restaurants, and sports bars.
When most people think about visi�ng Sco�sdale, Arizona, they probably envision golfing and a�ending spring training games in the winter and spring. As a resident year-round, I can assure you that Sco�sdale offers a wide variety of ac�vi�es at any �me of year. We enjoy almost daily sunny skies and constant flowering plants and bushes, providing a gorgeous backdrop to any ou�ng. If you like art, parks, hiking, hanging out at a pool, music, museums, shopping, wine tas�ng, or ea�ng, this is the vaca�on spot for you.
Keep walking east past Sco�sdale Road to explore the gallery district along Main Street. Most of the ar�sts featured are contemporary and range from local to interna�onal.
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Passing the Legacy sculpture by Herb Mignery Sco�sdale Con�nued… Head north across Indian School Road to the Sco�sdale Waterfront for more events, restaurants, and bou�que shops. Two popular fes�vals occupy a couple of weeks along the canal: Sco�sdazzle, with holiday lights and music, and Canal Convergence, with large-scale, interac�ve art.
Wine Tas�ng
Arizona vineyards have been growing in number and quality. Several tas�ng rooms in Sco�sdale offer an opportunity to sample a variety of local wines. Good op�ons in the downtown area include Aridus Wine Company, Merkin Vineyards, and LDV Winery Tas�ng Room.
Enjoy Nature
Throughout Sco�sdale, you can take advantage of the pleasant weather by hiking, walking, or cycling. The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt extends north for 11 miles from the border with Tempe, providing many op�ons for recrea�on. A paved path offers a safe route through parks and golf courses for walking, running, and cycling.
unique flora and fauna, but also a few poten�al dangers. The days may start off cool but can heat up very quickly and it is very easy to get overheated and dehydrated. Also, cac� needles are sharp, many of the trails are rocky, and ra�lesnakes live here. However, if you choose a trail that fits your abili�es and follow good hiking prac�ces, a foray into this gorgeous landscape will be a highlight of your trip. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve contains over 30,000 acres of wild land and can be accessed from 10 trailheads in Northern Sco�sdale. My favorite, the Gateway Trailhead, has a large parking lot, modern restrooms, and a good choice of trails of varying length and difficulty. The Bajada Nature Trail is a wide, rela�vely flat path with educa�onal placards along the way. The Gateway Loop’s fourand-a-half-mile course provides scenic views over the Phoenix Valley, as well as a secluded feel on the backside.
Cultural Ac�vi�es
Chapparel and Eldorado Parks embrace the mul�use path, containing lagoons, gardens, fields, and playgrounds. McCormick-S�llman Railroad Park has playgrounds, two train rides, a carousel, a model train museum, and refreshments for sale.
Many op�ons await visitors for finding some culture in Sco�sdale, especially on those scorching a�ernoons. On the edge of the Civic Center, the Sco�sdale Museum of Contemporary Art offers three galleries of rota�ng exhibi�ons. Next door, the Sco�sdale Center for Performing Arts hosts concerts, musicals, and dance performances.
Hiking in the desert means breathtaking views and
Western Spirit: Sco�sdale’s Museum of the West
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Sco�sdale Civic Center Park sits in the gallery district and presents permanent and raveling exhibi�ons of Western art and history. Canvas of Clay features stunning Hopi po�ery with intricate designs. The Spirit of the West Collec�on showcases 1400 items from the Old West collected by A.P. Hayes, such as spurs, holsters, and badges. In North Sco�sdale, you can tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and studio at Taliesin West. On display is Wright’s iconic style of imita�ng nature to blend local stones with wood and glass to fit seamlessly into the desert environment.
Where to Dine
Another major benefit of a temperate climate is the profusion of outdoor dining op�ons throughout the city. Whether in Old Town, around the waterfront, or up north in Kierland Commons and Sco�sdale Quarter, you can enjoy every meal out on a pa�o. Heaters and misters extend the season to almost year-round. An ideal day for me would be breakfast at Prep & Pastry at the Waterfront, lunch at Grimaldi’s in Old Town or Sco�sdale Quarter, then dinner at AZ88 at the Civic Center. However, I have dozens of local favorites and you can find every type of cuisine and price point.
Western Spirit: Sco�sdale’s Museum of the West
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Desert Botanical Garden
Explore Phoenix
Sco�sdale is a perfect launching pad for ac�vi�es throughout the Phoenix metro area. Many lodging op�ons include hotels, resorts, and vaca�on homes. Especially during the warmer months, having a pool to lounge in during the a�ernoon fits perfectly with enjoying all of the city’s indoor and outdoor fun. The Phoenix area offers many urban a�rac�ons, with museums and concert halls in its downtown and adjacent ci�es. Hiking trails and parks abound in the city and on the outskirts. The Desert Botanical Garden and the Musical Instrument Museum are two truly unique spots that should not be missed. Any �me of year, visitors to Sco�sdale can enjoy a wide array of restaurants, shops, and ac�vi�es. Downtown Sco�sdale is a perfect home base to explore locally and throughout the Phoenix Valley. Judy re�red a�er 30 years as a feline veterinarian and is now focusing on travel wri�ng and guiding forest bathing. A�er growing up in Chicago and living in the Midwest for many years, she moved to Sco�sdale for the warm weather and desert scenery. She enjoys visi�ng urban areas to explore art and culture but also seeks out peaceful natural areas to recharge. Follow her adventures at h�ps://judykarnia.com/ PAGE 40
An�cus art gallery and bookstore.
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EXPERIENCE THE SOUTHWEST Stay & Play in Central New Mexico, Arizona & Sunny Palm Springs and Celebrate The Arts, Enjoy Outdoor Adventures, Savor Regional Cuisine, and Relax in Unique Lodging Des�na�ons…
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EXPERIENCE THE SOUTHWEST IN SANTA FE
From the visual and performing arts to outdoor recrea�on, historic sites, museums, cultural celebra�ons, and culinary offerings, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Thursday "New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Associa�on" Show focuses on what to experience in Santa Fe this spring and summer. Featured guest is innkeeper Walt Wyss of Four Kachinas Inn and El Farolito Bed & Breakfast Inn.
Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Learn more about Walt's B&B Inns at h�ps://fourkachinas.com/ and h�ps://farolito.com/. Stay New Mexico True and Visit: h�ps://www.nmbba.org/
BED & BREAKFAST ADVENTURES IN ALBUQUERQUE
Featuring innkeepers Marjorie and Gene Trosterud, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Thursday "New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Associa�on" Show focuses on historic Sleepy Lobo Inn, a full-service Bed & Breakfast that recently opened in the heart of Albuquerque! Plus, hear about what you experience in beau�ful and culturally diverse Albuquerque. Listen here in
the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Learn more about Sleepy Lobo Inn at h�ps://www.sleepyloboinn.com/. Stay New Mexico True and Visit: h�ps://www.nmbba.org/. Con�nued on Next Page…
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VISIT DEGRAZIA GALLERY IN THE SUN
On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Lance Laber, Execu�ve Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, talks about the new Ted DeGrazia exhibits on display now, including the annual "Way of the Cross," "Rodeo," and "DeGrazia's Master of Arts Thesis Pain�ngs." Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil pain�ngs, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures. There are six permanent collec�ons on display and several rota�ng exhibi�ons each year. More: h�p://www.degrazia.org/
COLORADO RIVER RAFTING ADVENTURE
On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou," Linda takes us on a Colorado River ra�ing adventure in the Grand Canyon, the subject of "Ra�ing in the Wake of Georgie White - Woman of the River,” a Solas award-winning story in her book, "Lost Angel Unleashed."
Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Follow Linda's adventures at h�ps://lostangeladventures.com and learn more about her books at h�p://www.lindaballouauthor.com/
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STAY & PLAY IN SUNNY PALM SPRINGS
Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
This episode of Big Blend Radio's 4th Saturday “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays” Show focuses on winter events, ac�vi�es, and unique lodging des�na�ons Palm Springs, California. Featured guest is Kimberli Munkres who represents Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, a consor�um of independently owned bou�que hotels in the desert resort community of Palm Springs, in Southern California.
Plan your Palm Springs visit and sign up for the monthly Bou�quely Palm Springs newsle�er at h�ps://authen�cpalmsprings.com/
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FARM FUN IN CALIFORNIA’S SEQUOIA COUNTRY
Ar�chokes at Woodlake Botanical Garden From farmers' markets and agricultural events to farm-to-table dining, museums, botanical gardens, and farm-centric a�rac�ons and ac�vi�es, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Thursday "California Sequoia Country" Show with the Sequoia Tourism Council focuses the farm and agricultural experience you can have in Tulare County. Featured guests are Donne�e Silva Carter and Suzanne Bianco. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.
Every year, well over a million people travel through San Joaquin Valley and up to the Sierra Nevada Mountains to experience the grand magnificence of the giant sequoia trees that grow in California’s Sequoia Country. Home to Kings Canyon and Sequoia Na�onal Parks, Giant Sequoia Na�onal Monument, and Sequoia Na�onal Forest, It’s a popular family des�na�on with easy and accessible trails, waterfalls, wildflowers, and all kinds of birds and wildlife. This kind of outdoor experience is crucial to a child’s development, boos�ng curiosity, a sense of wonder, and imagina�on.
A�er all, who doesn’t want a family portrait of everyone trying to hug the General Sherman tree? It’ll take about twenty people joining hands to completely hug this world record-breaking giant sequoia that stands 275 feet tall and spreads out over 36 feet in diameter at the base. The giant sequoia trees aren’t the only thing growing in this region. Tulare County is a major agricultural hub that leads in the produc�on of dairy, citrus and stone fruits, nuts, and berries. Local farmers grow over 200 different major crops with products being shipped to more than 75 countries worldwide. The farm communi�es that make up Tulare County are family-friendly, community-centric, and deeply commi�ed to teaching kids of all ages where their food comes from. It’s an important farm-to-table connec�on that’s o�en missed in our fast-paced digital lifestyle. Taking kids on a Tulare County adventure is a fun way to teach them about the farmers who grow and raise their food, the many challenges they face, and how agriculture and farm life have changed over the last century. The region con�nues to maintain its charm with historic down towns, small ‘Mom & Pop’ shops and eateries, farm stands and farmers markets, down home friendliness and warm hospitality, great community parks, public art, and a plethora of a�rac�ons and ac�vi�es to enjoy. It’s perfect for a family vaca�on! Plan your Tulare County Farm Adventure at www.DiscovertheSequoias.com
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TIPS ON PLANNING A VACATION
From solo adventures and roman�c escapes to road trips and mul�-genera�onal cruises, this episode shares some well-learned travel advice compiled by Lisa D. Smith & Nancy J. Reid, the full-�me motherdaughter travel team behind Big Blend Radio and the Big Weekly Blend Magazine. Listen here in the
YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Listen to Big Blend Radio’s “Vaca�on Sta�on” Travel Shows on YouTube and check out travel ar�cles on BlendRadioandTV.com and Na�onalParkTraveling.com.
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EPIC CRUISE EXPERIENCES FOR 2024!
world traveler, accredited travel advisor, and owner of Hey Wanna Go that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river and ocean cruises.
From Alaska to Antarc�ca, this episode with travel advisor Cheryl Ogle is all about unique and epic cruise experiences to plan for in 2024. Listen here in the YouTube player for download the podcast on Acast. On Big Blend Radio every 3rd Wednesday, Cheryl is a
Visit her site at h�ps://heywannago.com/ and check out her blog about epic cruises at h�p://�nyurl.com/bddxkk8b
THE JOYS OF AMTRAK TRAVEL
This episode features travel writer and lecturer David Kriso who talks about the many benefits of Amtrak travel. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. David’s railroading spirit has taken him aboard the Strasburg Railroad in Pennsylvania, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado, and
to the top of Pike’s Pike aboard the Manitou Springs and Pike’s Peak Railway. Recently, he’s ridden on the Saratoga & North Creek and the Wilmington & Western Railroads. He enjoys traveling aboard Amtrak to wherever the rails take him. Follow David’s travel stories on h�ps://dektraveljournal.com/ Con�nued on Next Page…
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CITYPASS DISCOUNTED ATTRACTION TICKETS
Vaca�on Planning Con�nued … This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA features Meg Heinen of CityPASS, who shares how you can save BIG on the top a�rac�ons across North America in landmark ci�es and des�na�ons like Boston, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Orlando, Tampa Bay,
Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, San Diego & Southern California, San Francisco, Sea�le, and Toronto. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. Learn more at h�ps://www.citypass.com/
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Meet the travel writers, authors, tourism companies and organiza�ons that we work with to bring you prime regional and global des�na�on informa�on to help you plan your next vaca�on. You can click on their pictures to see their expert profile page and read their ar�cles, listen to
podcast interviews, and connect directly with them on their websites and social media outlets. And of course, keep up with our Big Blend Radio “Vaca�on Sta�on” Travel Show to hear all our travel podcasts with expert guests and regular featured contributors. Happy travel planning! Con�nued on Next Page…
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