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All Things Travel Podcast

Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer
All Things Travel Podcast
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  • The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your "Retirement-Moon"
    Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore "retirement moons" - celebratory trips marking life's next chapter. Learn essential planning tips and discover top destinations for your dream retirement adventure.What is a Retirement Moon?A celebratory trip taken at retirement time, growing in popularity as retirees are more active and healthy. It's a reward for decades of work and kickoff to a new lifestyle.Timing: Plan for a few months after retirement to decompress and handle life transitions.Budgeting: Decide between splurge vs. sustainable spending. Use retirement gifts, bonuses, and extra time for cost-effective options.Trip Style: Choose solo, couple, or group travel. Consider adventure vs. relaxation focus.Health & Insurance: Essential travel insurance and medical prep for international trips.Length & Pacing: Take advantage of unlimited time off for slower, extended stays.InternationalItaly: Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Lake Como - perfect for slow-paced cultural immersionNew Zealand & Australia: Extended stays justify long travel timesEuropean River Cruises: Stress-free, all-inclusive travelJapan: Unique culture and culinary experiencesSouth Africa: Multi-week safaris and wine countryDomestic USAlaska: Land tours and cruises with extended explorationNational Parks: Multi-park road trip adventuresNapa/Sonoma: Wine country relaxation and indulgenceFlorida Keys & Charleston/Savannah: Laid-back Southern charmExpert Planning TipsBook Early: Start planning 1-2 years ahead for best optionsUse Travel Advisors: Professional planning for seamless, personalized tripsAdd Personal Touches: Special dinners, photography sessions, surprise upgradesAvoid Over-Planning: Balance structure with flexibility for spontaneous discoveriesFeatured: Quincy, MassachusettsVisit the United States Naval Ship Building Museum and explore the greater Boston area.Contact Wonder and Beyond TravelWebsite: WonderandBeyondTravel.comReady to plan your retirement moon? Contact Ryan and Julie for personalized travel planning services.Keywords: retirement travel, retirement moon, senior travel, Alaska cruises, European river cruises, Italy travel, National Parks road trips, travel planning for retireesReady to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!
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  • Alaska Adventures Await - Land, Sea & Everything In Between
    Join travel experts Ryan and Julie as they explore America's Last Frontier in this comprehensive guide to Alaska travel. Whether you're considering an Alaska cruise, land-based adventure, or combination trip, this episode covers everything you need to know to plan your dream Alaska vacation.Land-Based Alaska VacationsStarting points: Anchorage and FairbanksTransportation options: Alaska Railroad, rental cars, guided toursDeeper immersion into wilderness and local cultureAccess to interior Alaska destinations like Denali National ParkCustom itineraries for specific interests (fishing, photography, wildlife)Best for: Active travelers, photographers, wildlife enthusiastsAlaska CruisesInside Passage routes from Seattle or VancouverHassle-free travel with scenic coastal viewsPopular ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, SewardLimited time in each destinationBest for: Cruise lovers, multi-generational travelers, comfort seekersAlaska Cruise Tours (Land + Sea Combination)Pre or post-cruise land extensions (3-7 days)Most popular add-on: Denali National ParkBest of both experiences: coastal views and interior explorationConvenient planning through cruise linesBest for: Travelers wanting comprehensive Alaska experienceBest Time to VisitLate May through early SeptemberOptimal weather conditionsPeak whale watching seasonMost ports and attractions openPacking EssentialsLayer for all weather typesWaterproof clothingComfortable walking shoesPrepare for temperature variations in single dayPhysical ConsiderationsAssess mobility and activity levelsSome excursions require physical fitnessAge restrictions on certain activitiesWide variety of adventure levels availableBooking StrategyBook early due to limited travel seasonReserve excursions after booking main tripConsider cruise and tour package dealsPlan around port schedules and timingConnect with All Things TravelWebsite: WonderAndBeyondTravel.comEmail the hosts for personalized travel planningSpecializing in family travel, cruises, and destination expertiseNext Episode PreviewJoin us next week as we explore the new travel trend of "retirement moons" - a growing vacation concept for retirees.Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!
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  • What NOT to Do on Your Cruise: Top Mistakes to Avoid Before & During Your Vacation
    In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie share crucial advice on what NOT to do on your next cruise vacation. From booking to disembarkation, they cover the common mistakes that can ruin your cruise experience. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this episode provides valuable tips to ensure smooth sailing on your next ocean adventure.Pre-Cruise Mistakes to AvoidBooking flights on embarkation day: The hosts share a cautionary tale of a bride and groom who missed their entire cruise weddingNot having valid travel documents: Why passports are strongly recommended even when not strictly requiredIgnoring medical restrictions: Important rules for pregnant women (24-week cutoff) and infants (minimum 6 months)Failing to monitor price changes: How prices fluctuate and why checking for drops could save you moneySkipping travel insurance: Real-world scenarios where insurance is crucial, especially for medical care in foreign portsSelecting cabins at random: Why location matters and how working with a travel advisor helps you make informed choicesDuring Your Cruise MistakesTaking only ship-affiliated shore excursions: Why independent options might offer better experiences with smaller crowdsWaiting until the last minute to book extras: Why shore excursions, dining packages, and transfers often sell outOverpacking your carry-on: The reality of lugging bags around until your stateroom is readyForgetting to put your phone on airplane mode: How to avoid shocking international roaming chargesArriving late at port after excursions: The captain will wave goodbye as you're left behindAssuming everything is included: Understanding what costs extra on your specific cruise lineOverindulging with drink packages: Finding the balance between enjoyment and overindulgenceNot drinking enough water: Staying hydrated is essential for enjoying your vacationPost-Cruise MistakesWaiting to book your next cruise: Missing out on onboard booking discounts and incentivesBooking flights too close to disembarkation: Why noon is the earliest recommended departure timeReady to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!
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  • Welcome to Wonder and Beyond Travel!
    In this special episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie announce the launch of their brand new travel agency, Wonder and Beyond Travel. After seven years of experience in the travel industry, the duo shares their excitement about this new venture and how they aim to provide personalized travel experiences that inspire curiosity and transformation through travel.What You'll LearnThe story behind the creation of Wonder and Beyond TravelThe agency's core values and mission to inspire "wonder and beyond" in travel experiencesHow Ryan and Julie's expertise has evolved from Disney-focused vacations to a wide range of travel servicesThe four core services offered by Wonder and Beyond TravelAdditional resources available to both clients and non-clientsCore Services HighlightedCustom Travel Itineraries: Personalized plans tailored to each client's unique vision, needs, and budgetHands-Off Booking Management: Comprehensive handling of travel logistics, accommodations, tours, and reservationsConcierge-Level Support: Expert guidance throughout the entire travel process from planning to on-the-ground assistanceDestination Expertise: Insider knowledge on destinations ranging from Disney parks to European getawaysTravel PartnersWonder and Beyond Travel continues to work with prestigious travel partners including:Disney DestinationsMajor cruise lines and river cruising companiesAll-inclusive resorts (Sandals, Beaches, Hyatt)Universal Destinations (including upcoming Epic Universe)Kensington Tours for European and international travelAnd many more! Connect With Wonder and Beyond TravelWebsite: wonderandbeyondtravel.comFacebook & Instagram: @wonderandbeyondtravelThe All Things Travel Podcast will continue with the same great contentAbout Your HostsRyan: A travel professor with expertise in adult trips, river cruising, safaris, and European travelJulie: A Disney-loving Maryland mom of three specializing in family travel, multi-generational trips, cruising, and all-inclusive resortsComing SoonYouTube channel with destination videosEnhanced blog contentDigital guides and planners for travelersThe world is full of wonder and your next great adventure is waiting at Wonder and Beyond Travel. We work with you to create a one-of-a-kind journey, taking the stress off your plate so you can focus on the joy of exploring and the memories that will stay with you forever.Next week on All Things Travel: Common mistakes to avoid on your next cruise!Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!
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  • Exploring the Danube River with AmaWaterways (Part 2)
    In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie continue their discussion of Ryan's recent river cruise experience with AmaWaterways on the Romantic Danube itinerary. After covering the pre-cruise stay and initial impressions in the previous episode, they dive deeper into the dining experience, daily excursions, and how the cruise line handles unexpected situations.Dining Experience on AmaWaterwaysBreakfast: Combination of menu items (omelets, eggs benedict, pancakes) and buffet options including English breakfast and pastriesLunch: Menu-based with regionally-inspired options, including sandwiches, soups, and hot main dishesDinner: Full menu service with regionally-based cuisine reflecting the sailing locationsChef's Table: Complimentary specialty dining experience in a separate venue with a chef preparing meals in front of guestsUnlimited beer and wine included with lunch and dinnerLate night snacks available in the lounge around 10 PMFlexible dining options for various preferences, with "always available" menu items like steak, chicken, and salmonItinerary and Port HighlightsTechnical issues required modifications to the schedule, with AmaWaterways providing bus transportation to destinationsWachau Valley: Though initially missed due to ship issues, the cruise was rerouted to allow passengers to sail through this beautiful Austrian valleyDürnstein, Austria: Known for apricots, offering tastings of various apricot productsMelk Abbey: A gorgeous architectural complex with monks still in residenceVienna, Austria: Ryan toured the vibrant city on Palm SundayBratislava, Slovakia: Surprisingly Ryan's favorite stop, offering the perfect blend of small village charm and modern city amenities Walking tour through the old townBeer garden with Slovakian beer tastingsLocal pastries and ice cream (including fig flavor)Shopping opportunities at both traditional shops and modern mallsBudapest, Hungary: Sailing into Budapest and seeing the Parliament building along the Danube Tours of both Buda (old town, castle area) and Pest sidesVisit to the Jewish memorial shoes along the DanubeEaster market with food, music, decorations, and giftsKey TakeawaysExceptional level of service throughout the cruiseVariety of experiences available even with similar excursion typesRiver cruising allows passengers to customize their vacation experienceWell-suited for solo travelersProfessional handling of transfers and logisticsPlanning Your Own River CruiseInterested in experiencing a river cruise on the Danube or exploring Europe's waterways? Contact the All Things Travel team at Ready to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!
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About All Things Travel Podcast

Listen in each week with Wonder and Beyond Travel Co-Owners and destination experts Ryan and Julie. He is your travel professor, teaching you everything you need to know to have a magical vacation. She is a Disney-loving, Maryland mom of 3 and a specialist in family travel.  Whether they're discussing incredible destinations, top vacation tips, or sharing personal stories…it’s always All Things Travel. 
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