• Family Adventures: Theme Parks, Cruises & Multigenerational Travel
    Jun 16 2025

    Happy National Family Month! This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), fatures travel writer Sarah Gilliland who shares tips for planning meaningful and fun-filled family vacations—especially to theme parks, on cruises, and through multi-generational travel.

    From budgeting and bonding to immersive attractions and educational takeaways, Sarah highlights how travel builds lasting memories and helps kids connect with new cultures. The conversation also touches on Alabama’s family-friendly offerings and the evolution of theme parks into rich, interactive experiences.

    🎧 Listen and find all related links and resources (and a fun jigsaw puzzle): https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/family-adventures-theme-parks-cruises-multigenerational-travel/

    Sarah Gilliland is a freelance travel journalist and family travel expert. She’s a member of IFWTWA, a Travel Media Showcase journalist, and the voice behind Sarah in the Suburbs. 🌍 Keep up with Sarah’s adventures at: https://ontheroadwithsarah.com

    🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com

    This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Dail Blend Channels.

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    55 mins
  • Exploring Vicksburg, Mississippi: History, Culture & Culinary Delights
    Jun 13 2025

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham returns to share her recent experiences in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi. From the powerful stories behind the Civil War to the vibrant arts and culinary scenes, Susan highlights what makes this Southern city such a meaningful and engaging destination.

    The conversation dives into the impact of the Civil War on Vicksburg, the importance of the Vicksburg National Military Park, and the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and modern charm.

    📖 Read Susan’s article: “Vicksburg National Military Park & Beyond” 👉 https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/vicksburg-national-military-park-and-beyond

    Susan Lanier-Graham is an experienced journalist, editor, storyteller, and author with a passion for purposeful travel and meaningful connection. Along with being the managing editor of an Arizona lifestyle publication, and an editor and contributor to Newsweek, Susan is the publisher and founder of Wander With Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/

    🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org

    🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com

    🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," and "Way Back When" Channels. Check out our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    43 mins
  • Road Trip to Bisbee in Southeast Arizona
    Jun 10 2025

    Get ready to hit the road and discover one of Arizona’s most charming hidden gems! On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we explore beautiful and historic Bisbee, Arizona with special guests Heather Andrews and Janet MacDonald of Discover Bisbee.

    Nestled in Southeast Arizona, Bisbee is a vibrant destination packed with history, culture, and character. From guided tours through its historic district to specialty local shops, art galleries and murals, natural attractions, and unique and historic lodgings—Bisbee offers something for every kind of traveler.

    🧭 Did you know? - Bisbee is home to America’s first baseball field, Warren Ballpark. - It boasts Arizona’s smallest and longest continuously operating bar. - At 5,538 feet, it’s higher in elevation than Denver, making it the southernmost mile-high-plus city in the U.S.!

    Plan your ultimate Bisbee adventure: https://www.discoverbisbee.com/

    🔗 Subscribe & Explore More: 👉 Subscribe on Podbean: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 👉 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Road Trip Radio” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    23 mins
  • Cruising the West Coast of Africa with Crystal Cruises
    May 19 2025

    From Cape Town, South Africa to Tema, Ghana—join us on this fascinating episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) as award-winning food and travel writer Sucheta Rawal shares highlights from her luxury cruise journey aboard the Crystal Symphony up the stunning West Coast of Africa.

    Discover what it’s like to explore Namibia, Angola, São Tomé and Príncipe, Benin, and Ghana in comfort and style. Sucheta dives into the ship's elegant accommodations, world-class dining, onboard entertainment and expert lectures, and culturally rich shoreline excursions.

    A prolific writer and speaker, Sucheta Rawal has visited 126 countries across all 7 continents. She contributes to National Geographic, CNN, TIME Magazine, and more, and is the author of five travel-themed children's books. Her nonprofit, Go Eat Give, promotes responsible and meaningful travel. She’s also a TEDx speaker and will deliver her fourth TEDx talk this year in Manila.

    ✨ Read more about her West Africa experience: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/West-Africa-is-open-for-tourism--Here-s-how-you-can-visit-comfortably---.html

    🌍 Learn more about Sucheta Rawal: https://suchetarawal.com

    🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org

    🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

    This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station Travel Channel.

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    38 mins
  • Outdoor Adventures in Steuben County, New York
    May 13 2025

    Get ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes and exciting outdoor experiences of Steuben County in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we chat with Dave DeGolyer from Explore Steuben about all the fun and adventure you can have in this scenic destination.

    From kayaking on Keuka Lake and fishing the Chemung River, to hiking the 1000-mile Finger Lakes Trail, wildlife watching at Erwin Wildlife Management Area, and cycling the Keuka Gravel routes, Steuben County is a nature lover’s dream. You'll also hear about top outdoor attractions like Letchworth State Park, Stony Brook State Park, Mossy Bank Park, Birdseye Hollow State Forest, Spencer Crest Nature Center, and the Susquehanna Basin Water Trail.

    Beyond outdoor adventure, Steuben County offers award-winning wineries, locally inspired cuisine, world-renowned art (like at the nearby Corning Museum of Glass), and a welcoming, small-town vibe that makes it the perfect travel destination for families, couples, and solo explorers alike.

    🎧 Listen now to plan your ultimate Finger Lakes outdoor getaway: 👉 http://www.exploresteuben.com/ 👉 Subscribe on Podbean: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 👉 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

    This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Parks & Travel” podcast channels. Discover more travel inspiration at the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    37 mins
  • Southern Delaware Delights: Beaches, Wine & Culinary Treasures
    May 9 2025

    Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week with this exciting episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show in partnership with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Travel writer Mary Farah takes us on a journey through Southern Delaware, uncovering the region’s hidden gems and unexpected West Coast vibes.

    From a luxurious stay at Avenue Inn and Spa to a wine tasting at Nassau Valley Vineyards, Mary shares her experience exploring Delaware’s “Culinary Coast.” Highlights include dining at One Coastal, enjoying a classic “drive on” beach lunch with Chef Hari Cameron, sweet indulgence at Dessert in Delaware, and visiting top attractions like the Delaware Botanic Gardens, Story Hill Farm, Funland, and the iconic Jolly Trolley.

    📖 Read the full travel feature: "A Summer Getaway to Southern Delaware" here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-summer-getaway-to-southern-delaware/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🎧 Subscribe for more episodes: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

    This episode is also featured on our Big Blend Radio “Vacation Station,” “Eat, Drink & Be Merry,” and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Discover more travel, food, and lifestyle content on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    35 mins
  • Jeffrey Spear - My Life in Gluttony
    Apr 21 2025

    On this delicious episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show, presented in collaboration with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we’re joined by Jeffrey Spear, author of the mouthwatering book “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure.”

    From indulging in street food like char-grilled mouse in Malawi to tracking down the best hot dogs in New York City, Jeffrey shares the unforgettable meals, flavors, and foodie moments that have defined his travels across the globe. With stops in Ghana, South Africa, Lebanon, Paris, Serbia, and beyond, Spear shows us that culinary curiosity can turn any trip into a gastronomic adventure.

    Tune in as Jeffrey discusses: - His philosophy of “living to eat” - His most surprising and exotic food finds - The 96 travel-inspired recipes featured in his book - Memorable moments from travels in the U.S. and abroad

    Whether you're a food lover, travel enthusiast, or just curious about global cuisines, this episode will awaken your taste buds and spark your wanderlust!

    📖 Grab your copy of “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-Gluttony-Culinary-Adventure/dp/0988919117

    🍲 Try Jeffrey’s featured recipe – Mućkalica - here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/jeffrey-spear-my-life-in-gluttony/

    Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), here: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

    🎧 This episode is also featured on our Big Blend Radio “Vacation Station” Travel Channel! Explore even more engaging shows on the Big Blend Radio Network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    52 mins
  • Experience Wytheville, Virginia
    Apr 11 2025

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA, travel writer and author Kathleen Walls talks about her experiences in beautiful and historic Wytheville, Virginia.

    For a small town, she visited a huge array of diverse attractions, ranging from the home of a woman who was once acting President of the United States to a safari where the animals run loose and you are enclosed in a bus. Read her story about it all, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/experience-the-one-and-only-wytheville/

    Kathleen Walls is publisher/writer for American Roads and Global Highways at https://www.americanroads.net/. A member of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, her articles and photographs have appeared in numerous magazines and online publications. She is also an author of numerous travel books, online travel guides, and fiction novels. Learn more about her books at https://katywalls.com/.

    Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) at https://www.ifwtwa.org/

    Follow this podcast here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m

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    35 mins
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