In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon," award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us on a breathtaking journey through Japan during the magical cherry blossom season. From the vibrant energy of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the majestic views of Mount Fuji, Sharon shares personal stories, cultural insights, and practical tips for exploring Japan’s natural beauty and rich traditions.

Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or dreaming of your first visit to Japan, this episode will inspire and inform your future travels.

📝 Read Sharon’s full article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/chasing-sakuru-a-journey-through-japans-cherry-blossoms/

🎙️ Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz and her global adventures: https://sharonkkurtz.com

📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com

🎧 Listen on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station channel: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon," where award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes you on a journey through Galveston, Texas—a vibrant coastal city shaped by its rich history, powerful storms, ghostly legends, and Gulf Coast charm.

From walking The Strand and sailing the historic Elissa, to honoring the roots of Juneteenth, visiting haunted hotels, and indulging in local seafood, Sharon shares insider tips and captivating stories from her return trip to this fascinating destination—one of the busiest cruise ports in the U.S.

📍 Plan your Galveston getaway: https://www.visitgalveston.com

📝 Read Sharon’s article on Galveston: https://shebuystravel.com/things-to-do-in-galveston/

🎙️ Sharon has explored over 50 countries across six continents, and brings each destination to life through her compelling storytelling and photography. Discover more of her work at https://sharonkkurtz.com.

📅 New episodes of Wander the World with Sharon air the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com

🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s channels including Big Daily Blend, Way Back When, and Vacation Station: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast, travel writer Sharon K. Kurtz talks about moving to from Dallas to the southwest side of Austin, Texas.

Sharon's discovered a whole different side of Austin beyond downtown—where legendary BBQ, scenic wineries, and live music venues create a uniquely Texan experience. Hear about Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the Mercer Dance Hall in Driftwood, Austin City Live, the annual Bat Fest, and the iconic bluebonnet bloom in the spring.

Whether you're a longtime Austinite or just curious about what makes this city special, this episode will highlight both the well-known attractions and the hidden gems that make Austin such a great place to live.

Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/.

Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/

This episode is also being shared and featured on other Big Blend Radio Network Channels including "Vacation Station." Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

North Lake Tahoe, California, offers a retreat into nature, history, and adventure, far from the neon lights and casinos of the southern shore. Lake Tahoe is the second-deepest alpine lake in the U.S., with strikingly clear waters and a fascinating geological history.

Ohis episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast, travel writer Sharon K. Kurtz shares her North Lake Tahoe experiences including Granlibakken Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, Donner Memorial State Park, and Vikingsholm Castle, along with the area's Winter Olympic legacy, and indigenous history of the Washoe Tribe. Learn more: https://www.gotahoenorth.com/

Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/.

Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/

This episode is also being shared and featured on other Big Blend Radio Network Channels including "Parks & Travel" and "Vacation Station." Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji isn’t just about its stunning beaches or vibrant coral reefs. This episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz shares how Fiji is a destination where adventure meets serenity, all against a backdrop of rich culture and warm hospitality.

With 333 islands to explore, Fiji offers something for every type of traveler, and its deep connection to nature and tradition makes it unforgettable. Read Sharon's article about her recent visit, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/fiji-a-south-pacific-paradise/

Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/

Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/.

This episode is also being shared and featured on other Big Blend Radio Network Channels including the "Vacation Station." Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz focuses on how visiting Maui in Hawai'i is a vital step in supporting the island's renewal after the deadly wildfires that devastated Lahaina in August 2023.

From outrigger canoeing to cycling down a volcano, read Sharon's article about what you can experience in Maui, as well as how you can help support this magical and culturally historic destination, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/visiting-maui-a-vital-step-in-supporting-the-islands-renewal/

Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/

Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/.

Have you experienced the Hill Country of Texas? From wine tasting and live music, and history, this episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast is all about historic Fredericksburg, Texas.

Fredericksburg is a small town with a big personality, where you can really sense the blend of cultures that shaped its character. From its roots as a German settlement in 1846, the town has managed to hold onto that Old World charm while embracing a bit of Texas spirit. And, with over 100 vineyards and tasting rooms in the region, this town has truly earned its place on the wine map. Then there's Luckenbach which became famous in the 1970s as a country music hotspot. Learn more at https://www.visitfredericksburgtx.com/ CHECK OUT SHARON'S ARTICLE about her adventures in Fredericksburg here: https://shebuystravel.com/things-to-do-in-fredericksburg-texas/

Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/

Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz shines the spotlight on Niagara Falls, Ontario. World-renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, this Canadian destination features a rich tapestry of history, nature, and culinary experiences that offer layers of exploration. Check out Sharon's article about her experiences: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-visit-to-niagara-falls-canada/

Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com/

Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/.