The Family Vacationer Podcast - Episode 166: The Best Places to See the Leaves Changing in the Fall

Episode Overview:

In this episode of *The Family Vacationer*, Rob takes you on a colorful journey through some of the best places in the U.S. to experience the magic of fall foliage. Whether you're planning a quick weekend road trip or a longer family vacation, you'll get expert tips on the top destinations to soak in the season's vibrant colors.

Topics Covered:

1. New England Fall Foliage

- Explore Vermont’s Green Mountain Byway, with family-friendly activities like apple picking and cider mills.

- Discover New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway and scenic spots in the White Mountains.

- Experience Acadia National Park in Maine, where coastal views meet stunning autumn landscapes.

2. Southern and Midwestern Fall Adventures

- Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, with Asheville as your base for exploration.

- Enjoy the colors of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including the picturesque Cades Cove.

- Explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, from the Porcupine Mountains to the waterfalls of Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

- Visit Door County, Wisconsin, where local traditions like fish boils and scenic drives offer a unique fall experience.

3. Western and Mountain Foliage Destinations

- Discover the beauty of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas and Missouri, with winding scenic drives through dense forests.

- Take in the golden hues of Aspen, Colorado, and the breathtaking views of Maroon Bells.

- Head to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia for the perfect mix of scenic drives and outdoor activities along Skyline Drive.

Why You Should Listen:

If you love the idea of a family getaway surrounded by the beauty of autumn, this episode is packed with inspiration. Rob shares practical travel tips, must-see spots, and ideas for making the most of your fall foliage trips—whether you're into hiking, scenic drives, or simply enjoying the crisp air and vibrant landscapes.

Links and Resources Mentioned

- Acadia National Park

- Green Mountain Byway (Vermont)

- The Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

- The Blue Ridge Parkway

- Great Smoky Mountains National Park

- Porcupine Mountains (Michigan)

- Maroon Bells (Aspen, Colorado)

- Shenandoah National Park

Follow Us:

Be sure to subscribe to *The Family Vacationer* on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode! For more family travel inspiration, follow us on social media and visit our website for additional resources.

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Episode 165: Tackling Overtourism – A Guide to Sustainable Travel

Welcome back to The Family Vacationer. I’m your host, Rob, and today we’re diving deep into a pressing issue in the travel world: overtourism. This year has seen tourism take on new challenges, and overtourism has emerged as a major concern. But what does overtourism mean, and how can we tackle it? In this episode, we’ll explore the impact of too many tourists on our favorite destinations and discuss how we can make a positive difference through sustainable travel practices.

What is Overtourism?

Overtourism happens when a destination experiences so many visitors that it starts to suffer. This usually results in environmental damage, cultural erosion, and a diminished experience for both tourists and locals. Think of it as loving a place to death: the very beauty that draws people in becomes compromised by the sheer volume of visitors.

Examples Around the World

Venice, Italy: This city’s iconic canals and historic buildings are being damaged by the overwhelming number of tourists. The influx has strained the city’s infrastructure and endangered its preservation.

Barcelona, Spain:*Famous landmarks like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell face massive crowds, which affect the quality of life for residents and the visitor experience.

Hawaii and New York City: These popular spots are grappling with the effects of excessive tourism, from the strain on natural landscapes in Hawaii to overcrowded attractions in New York.

What Can Families Do? Embracing Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism is key to reducing the negative impacts of travel while maximizing benefits to local communities and environments. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Conserve Resource

2. Support Local Economies

3. Be Culturally Sensitive

4. Reduce Waste

5. Minimize Environmental Impact

Practical Tips for Families

1. Plan Ahead

2. Travel Off-Peak

3.Educate Your Family

4. Be Mindful

5. Leave No Trace

Alternative Destinations

Explore these less crowded but equally enchanting destinations:

- Instead of Paris...

- Instead of Santorini...

- Instead of Tokyo...

- Instead of Venice...

Closing Thoughts

As travelers, we play a crucial role in shaping the future of the destinations we visit. By embracing sustainable tourism and considering alternative destinations, we can help preserve the beauty and integrity of these places for future generations. Remember, it's not just about where we go but how we travel that makes a difference.

We're not here to tell you how to think or what to do. The hope is just to raise awareness of these very real issues for your consideration.

That’s a wrap for today’s episode of The Family Vacationer. I hope this discussion on overtourism has given you valuable insights and practical tips. If you have questions or tips of your own, feel free to reach out to us.

rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

Thanks for joining me today, and as always, keep your passports and your hearts open. Safe travels, everyone!

Episode 164 – Gainesville, FL: A Family-Friendly Destination and College Town

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob takes you on a journey to Gainesville, Florida—a vibrant city that’s perfect for family vacations and an ideal spot for those considering the University of Florida. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, visiting cultural hotspots, or looking into college options, Gainesville has something for everyone.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Modern History of Gainesville:

- Learn about Gainesville’s rich history, from its early days as a railroad hub to its transformation into a lively college town, thanks to the University of Florida.

2. Family-Friendly Activities:

- Explore Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, where you can spot wild bison and horses.

- Wander through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, perfect for nature-loving families.

- Visit the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo for an educational and interactive animal experience.

- Discover the Florida Museum of Natural History, featuring the popular Butterfly Rainforest.

- Cool off with tubing at Ichetucknee Springs State Park, just a short drive from Gainesville.

3. You Places to Stay:

- Find family-friendly accommodations, from the modern Hotel ELEO at UF to the charming Sweetwater Branch Inn.

- Budget-conscious travelers can check out Drury Inn & Suites Gainesville for great value and amenities.

4. Family-Friendly Dining:

- Enjoy pizza and quirky vibes at Satchel’s Pizza, complete with a playground for kids.

- Savor diverse dishes at The Top, a downtown spot with something for everyone.

- Opt for healthy, locally-sourced meals at Civilization.

- Don’t miss SweetBerries Frozen Custard & Eatery for a sweet treat.

5. Gainesville as a College Town:

- Get insights into what makes Gainesville an appealing choice for families with teens considering the University of Florida.

- Learn about campus life, safety, housing, and the vibrant community that supports UF students.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or helping your teen explore college options, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to Gainesville, FL. Rob shares tips on the best activities, places to stay, and dining options, along with valuable insights into what makes Gainesville a top-notch college town.

Enjoy the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share The Family Vacationer with other families looking for travel inspiration. Got questions or suggestions? Reach out to us—we’d love to hear from you!

Listen Now: [Insert podcast link] 🔗

Connect with Us

- Website: www.thefamilyvacationer.live

- Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer

- Facebook: @thefamilyvacationerpodcast

## Show Notes: Episode 163 of The Family Vacationer Podcast - Exploring Ocala, Marion County, Florida

**Welcome to the show.**

"Yes. Thank you for having me. I'm excited to be on and talk about Ocala."

"We're excited to talk about it."

**Introduction to Ocala, Marion County**

Our guest introduces Ocala as a premier family travel destination, highlighting its status as the "Horse Capital of the World" and its abundance of natural wonders. From trails and springs to outdoor adventures, Ocala offers a diverse array of activities for families.

**Family-Friendly Accommodations in Ocala**

- **Hilton Ocala**: Conveniently located off I-75, featuring a great pool, on-site horse, and family-friendly amenities.

- **Hilton Garden Inn Downtown**: Located on the square, ideal for walking to restaurants, boutiques, and live music events.

- **Farm Stays**: Unique accommodations on horse farms, allowing families to interact with horses.

- **Riding Academy Hotel**: Pet and family-friendly hotel within the World Equestrian Center.

**Dining in Ocala**

- **Downtown Ocala**: Mellow Mushroom for pizza, Sayulita for Mexican street tacos with outdoor games, and Grandpa Joe's Candy Shop for nostalgic treats.

- **Eaton's Beach**: Located on Lake Weir, offering lakeside dining with options for beach play and water sports.

**Indoor Activities for Rainy Days**

- **Skating Rinks**: Offering rollerblading and classic roller skating with music.

- **Escape Rooms**: Family-friendly puzzles and challenges.

- **Fun Works Arcade**: Indoor gaming and entertainment.

- **Sky Zone**: Indoor trampoline park for active fun.

- **Ocala Drive-In**: A nostalgic drive-in movie experience, even in the rain.

**Outdoor Adventures and Parks**

- **Canyons Zip Line Adventure Park**: Zip lining, horseback riding, and gem mining in a picturesque former limestone quarry.

- **Horseback Riding**: Various trails and guided rides available, showcasing Ocala's equestrian heritage.

- **Springs and Parks**: Rainbow Springs State Park for tubing, Silver Springs State Park for glass bottom boat tours, and several springs in the Ocala National Forest for swimming and paddling.

**Family-Friendly Events and Festivals**

- **Art Walk**: Monthly downtown event with local artists, live music, and kids' activities.

- **Equestrian Events**: Including the Grandview Invitational draft horse show.

- **Holiday Events**: Light Up Ocala, Christmas light shows, and Winter Wonderland at the World Equestrian Center starting after Thanksgiving.

**Historical and Cultural Sites**

- **Silver River Museum and Education Center**: Engaging exhibits and scavenger hunts for kids.

- **Fort King**: A historical fort with events, reenactments, and trails.

- **Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing**: Showcasing drag racing history and antique cars.

**Insider Tips for Families**

Our guest shares valuable tips for maximizing your family's visit to Ocala, including the best times to visit, must-see attractions, and how to make the most of both indoor and outdoor activities.

---

Tune in to learn more about the diverse experiences Ocala, Marion County has to offer for a memorable family vacation!

**Episode 162: Lake City, Florida – A Perfect Family Travel Destination**

**Special Guest: Konnie Patke**

**Show Notes:**

- Overview of Lake City, Florida as a family-friendly travel destination

- Introduction of special guest Konnie Patke

- **Why Lake City Stands Out for Families**

- Family-friendly atmosphere with a blend of natural beauty, history, and community events

- **Must-See Attractions and Activities**

- Alligator Lake Park: Perfect for picnics, wildlife watching, and outdoor fun

- Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum: Offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history

- Annual Olustee Battle Festival: Features historical reenactments and family activities

- **Family-Friendly Events and Festivals**

- Olustee Battle Festival (February): Historical reenactments, arts and crafts, live entertainment

- Gateway City Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Family-friendly with various activities

- Christmas on the Square Festival: Holiday fun for the whole family

- **Natural Attractions**

- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Tubing, snorkeling, hiking opportunities

- Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park: Beautiful gardens, nature trails, cultural exhibits

- **Family-Friendly Accommodations**

- Cozy cabins at local campgrounds

- Family-friendly hotels with pools and amenities for all budgets

- **Historical and Cultural Landmarks**

- Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum: Educational exhibits and local history

- Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park: Educational programs and Civil War battle reenactments

- **Dining Options for Families**

- Marion Street Bistro and Brew House: Family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu

- Halpatter Brewing Company: Local flavors and welcoming environment for all ages

- **Educational Activities and Experiences**

- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Educational programs on local ecosystem

- Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park: Insights into Florida’s cultural heritage

- **Local Tips and Hidden Gems**

- Falling Creek Falls: Beautiful waterfall and peaceful setting

- Lake DeSoto Farmers Market: Fresh produce, local crafts, and a community vibe

- Encouragement to explore Lake City for your next family vacation

- Reminder to subscribe to The Family Vacationer Podcast for more travel tips and destination guides

- Thank you to Konnie Patke for sharing insights about Lake City, Florida

Tune in to Episode 162 to discover all that Lake City, Florida has to offer for your next family adventure!

Show Notes: Episode 161 - Discovering Macon, GA

**Hosts:** Rob and Traci

**Special Guest:** Gary Wheat, President and CEO of Visit Macon

**Episode Summary:**

In this exciting kickoff to our I-75 series, we dive into the vibrant city of Macon, GA, with the expert insights of Gary Wheat, President and CEO of Visit Macon. Rob and Traci explore what makes Macon a fantastic family travel destination, offering a perfect stop between Atlanta and Orlando. From unique attractions to hidden gems, this episode is packed with everything you need to know for an unforgettable family trip to Macon.

**Key Topics Covered:**

1. **Unique Family Attractions in Macon:**

- Gary Wheat shares some of the must-see attractions that make Macon a great destination for families. Discover the historic sites, museums, and engaging activities that await in this charming city.

2. **Family-Friendly Events and Festivals:**

- Learn about the various family-friendly events and festivals that take place in Macon throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there’s something for every family to enjoy.

3. Outdoor Activities and Parks:

- What are the best outdoor activities and parks in Macon for families? Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike or a beautiful picnic spot, Macon has plenty of options for nature lovers.

4. Macon’s Rich Musical History:

- Dive into Macon’s musical heritage with Gary’s insights on the city’s music museums and historical sites. Perfect for music-loving families, these spots offer a deep dive into the local music scene.

5. Local Restaurants and Food Experiences:

- Discover the best family-friendly dining spots in Macon. We highlight popular local restaurants and unique food experiences that families should not miss.

6. Family-Friendly Accommodations:

- Get tips on the best places to stay in Macon with amenities tailored for children. Whether you’re looking for a hotel with a pool or a cozy bed and breakfast, Macon has plenty of family-friendly options.

7. Hidden Gems in Macon:

- Gary shares some of Macon’s lesser-known attractions and hidden gems. These spots are perfect for families looking to explore off-the-beaten path and discover something new.

8. Macon’s National Park:

- Find out the status of the national park in Macon and what families can expect when visiting. Gary provides details on the activities and experiences available at the park.

9. Seasonal Activities and Attractions:

- Learn about the seasonal activities and attractions in Macon that are particularly fun for families during the summer and winter months. From holiday events to summer festivals, Macon offers year-round entertainment.

- Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer and leave a review!

**Resources Mentioned:**

- [Visit Macon Website](https://www.visitmacon.org)

- [The Family Vacationer Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

Connect with Us:

- Send us your travel stories and questions: rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

**Subscribe to the Podcast:**

- [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-family-vacationer)

- [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/thefamilyvacationer)

- [Google Podcasts](https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mYW1pbHl2YWNhdGlvbmVyLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz)

Stay tuned for our next episode, and happy travels! 🌍✈️

Episode 151 - Keeping Up with Family Vacation Photos Using Mylio

My sincere apologies to David and Alex at Mylio for the issue with our interview recording. Look for Mylio's CEO to be on the Family Vacationer soon!

**Episode Summary:**

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, we dive into the ultimate solution for managing, organizing, and sharing your family vacation photos—Mylio. Host Rob takes us through the features and benefits of Mylio, making it easier than ever to keep track of your precious travel memories. Whether you're struggling with photo clutter or looking for efficient ways to share your experiences, this episode is packed with useful tips and insights.

**Key Topics Covered:**

1. **Introduction to Mylio:**

- Overview of Mylio as a photo management tool

- Importance of organizing family vacation photos

2. **Organization Features:**

- Automatic organization with SmartTags and QuickCollections

- Manual organization with albums, folders, and keywords

- Maintaining current folder organization upon import

3. **Search Capabilities:**

- Dynamic search using keywords, ratings, people, map locations, recent imports, and pinned searches

- QuickFilters for narrowing down search results

4. **Editing Tools:**

- Control over color, exposure, composition, and more

- Easy-to-use tools for cropping, removing red-eye, and enhancing photos

5. **Viewing Options:**

- Life calendar for browsing by time

- Map view for location-based photo exploration

- People view for finding specific family members in photos

6. **Sharing Made Easy:**

- Creating semi-private albums for group sharing

- Universal Clipboard for easy photo sharing across applications

- SafeShare feature to remove personal information before posting online

7. **Storage Solutions:**

- Optimizing photos to fit up to 15 times more pictures on mobile devices

- Mylio Drive for accessing optimized images on the go

8. **Security and Backup:**

- Secure syncing and redundant Vault backups to protect photos

9. **Benefits of Mylio Photos+:**

- AI-powered organization tools

- Compatibility with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and iPadOS devices

- Connecting unlimited devices with Mylio Photos+

- Cloud independence with optional cloud storage as a Vault drive

- Don't forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer and leave a review!

**Resources Mentioned:**

- [Mylio Website](https://www.mylio.com)

- [The Family Vacationer Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

**Connect with Us:**

- Follow us on Instagram: [@thefamilyvacationer](https://www.instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

- Send us your travel stories and questions: rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

**Subscribe to the Podcast:**

- [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-family-vacationer)

- [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/thefamilyvacationer)

- [Google Podcasts](https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mYW1pbHl2YWNhdGlvbmVyLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz)

Next week we are starting a series on towns along the I-75 Drive between Atlanta and Orlando. So many families make that drive and miss so much along the way. Don't miss next week!

Exploring the origins, impact, and future of resort fees in the travel industry.

Episode Highlights

- **Introduction to Resort Fees:**

- Overview of the episode's focus on the frustration caused by resort fees.

- Brief history of how resort fees started in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

- **Historical Context:**

- Initial introduction in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Hawaii.

- Expansion into more hotels and cities over the decades.

- Evolution from covering amenities to becoming an additional revenue stream.

- **Consumer Impact:**

- How resort fees disrupt budget planning for families.

- Lack of transparency leading to consumer frustration and legal scrutiny.

- Federal Trade Commission's role in investigating deceptive pricing practices.

Key Discussion Points

- **Why Hotels Charge Resort Fees:**

- Bundling of amenities and services.

- Revenue generation without raising advertised room rates.

- Market positioning and competitive pricing strategies.

- Offsetting operating costs.

- Avoiding commission fees paid to third-party booking platforms.

- **Types of Hotels Charging Resort Fees:**

- Originally resorts and destination hotels in tourist-heavy areas.

- Expansion to urban hotels in cities like New York and San Francisco.

- No universal regulation, but emphasis on transparency and disclosure.

- **Consumer Advocacy and Legal Actions:**

- Lawsuits against deceptive practices.

- Increased consumer awareness leading to clearer disclosures.

- Federal and local regulations requiring all mandatory fees to be disclosed upfront.

Tips for Travelers

- **Avoiding Resort Fees:**

- Research and contact hotels before booking.

- Book through channels that include fees in the total price.

- Look for packages or promotions that waive resort fees.

- Confirm fee details before arrival.

- Negotiate or express concerns during check-in.

- Review your bill at check-out and dispute unauthorized charges if necessary.

Legislation Update

- **No Hidden Fees Act:**

- Supported by the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA).

- Aims to establish a single standard for transparent fee displays.

- Passed the House and awaits Senate approval.

- Potential impact on competitive pricing and hotel practices.

Personal Insights

- **Rob's Perspective:**

- The impact of resort fees on travel agents.

- Potential pitfalls of federal regulation.

- The importance of a comprehensive standard for fee transparency.

- Statistics from the AHLA indicating the prevalence and cost of resort fees.

- Recap of the history, current practices, and potential future of resort fees.

- Encouragement for listeners to stay informed and proactive in avoiding hidden fees.

- Thanks for tuning in to Episode 159 of The Family Vacationer.

- Invitation to join the next episode for more travel insights and tips.

Additional Resources

- **Links to Relevant Articles and Websites:**

- Federal Trade Commission guidelines on resort fees.

https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/foia/frequently-requested-records/hotel-pricingresort-fee

- AHLA's stance on resort fees and related legislation.

https://www.ahla.com/news/house-passes-no-hidden-fees-act-major-ahla-legislative-priority

Have Show Ideas? Contact Rob at rob@thefamilyvacationer.live