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On the show
From 10 epsHosts
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Globe Aware
Apr 10, 2026
40m 31s
Before it becomes a memory
Mar 20, 2026
7m 09s
Caribe Royale
Jan 16, 2026
1h 02m 07s
The People You Meet
Dec 12, 2025
40m 25s
10 Minute Memory Checkin
Dec 6, 2025
7m 18s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/10/26 | ![]() Globe Aware✨ | family travelvolunteer travel+3 | Kimberly | Globe Aware | Guatemala | family vacationvoluntourism+3 | — | 40m 31s | |
| 3/20/26 | ![]() Before it becomes a memory✨ | grieffamily dynamics+4 | — | — | — | grieffamily+5 | — | 7m 09s | |
| 1/16/26 | ![]() Caribe Royale✨ | family vacationresort review+3 | Luciano SperdutoChef David Hackett | Caribe Royale ResortDisney | Orlando, FL | Caribe Royalefamily vacation+4 | — | 1h 02m 07s | |
| 12/12/25 | ![]() The People You Meet✨ | family dynamicstravel experiences+1 | — | — | — | family vacationtravel+3 | — | 40m 25s | |
| 12/6/25 | ![]() 10 Minute Memory Checkin✨ | family travelmemory making+3 | — | The Family Vacationer | Disney | memory check-infamily travel+3 | — | 7m 18s | |
| 11/28/25 | ![]() A Review of Epic Universe✨ | theme parksfamily travel+4 | Ashley Dennis | Universal OrlandoTailor My Travels | Epic UniverseSuper Nintendo World+3 | Epic UniverseUniversal Orlando+7 | — | 34m 18s | |
| 11/21/25 | ![]() Rockford, IL✨ | Christmasholiday travel+3 | Kristen Paul | GoRockfordCheap Trick+2 | Rockford, IllinoisAnderson Japanese Gardens | RockfordChristmas+3 | — | 28m 33s | |
| 11/14/25 | ![]() Natchitoches, LA✨ | Christmas traditionsfamily travel+4 | Paige Alost | Natchitoches meat pie | Natchitoches, LouisianaLouisiana+2 | NatchitochesChristmas Festival+5 | — | 32m 22s | |
| 11/7/25 | ![]() Red Lodge, MT✨ | Christmas travelfamily traditions+3 | Sherry Weimer | — | Red Lodge, MontanaBeartooth Highway+1 | Red LodgeChristmas+5 | — | 18m 47s | |
| 11/5/25 | ![]() Thanksgiving Trip Ideas✨ | Thanksgiving travelfamily getaways+3 | — | — | Plymouth, MassachusettsAsheville, North Carolina+3 | Thanksgivingfamily travel+3 | — | 12m 45s | |
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| 10/24/25 | ![]() Family Travel Reset | Episode 198: The Family Travel Reset Episode Overview If your family vacations have started to feel a little too predictable — the same beach, the same rental, the same “are we even relaxed?” feeling when you get home — it might be time for a reset. In Episode 198, Rob shares how to press pause on autopilot travel and rediscover the why behind your family’s adventures. It’s not about the next destination — it’s about what you hope to bring home: connection, laughter, and stories worth retelling. Inspired by his upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel (coming November 11, 2025), Rob introduces the concept of The Family Travel Reset — a simple, practical way to make travel more intentional, more joyful, and a whole lot less stressful. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why families fall into “autopilot travel” — and how to break freeThe one question to ask before planning your next vacation: What do we really want from this trip?How to balance structure and spontaneity to create real connectionThe three easiest ways to reset your family’s travel mindsetA personal story from Disney that changed how Rob plans trips foreverA simple “Family Travel Check-In” you can do this week to reconnect and reset Three Easy Ways to Start Your Family Travel Reset Involve your kids in the planning. Ask them what they want out of the trip — more pool time, less rushing, more freedom. When kids feel heard, everyone’s happier on the road.Build in slow mornings. Vacations shouldn’t feel like a race. Linger over breakfast, explore without an agenda, and let curiosity lead the day.Redefine success. Instead of asking, “Did we check everything off?” try “Did we laugh together today?” Because that’s what really matters. Favorite Quote from This Episode “Meaningful travel isn’t about doing more — it’s about feeling more.” — Rob Jones From Rob’s Upcoming Book This episode pulls from several chapters of Rob’s forthcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, releasing November 11, 2025. The book is filled with stories, practical strategies, and gentle encouragement for parents who want travel to be less about logistics and more about connection. Preorder information coming soon! This Week Comes with Homework! Do a quick Family Travel Check-In: Ask everyone: What’s your favorite travel memory we’ve ever made together?Then ask: What would make our next trip even better? Their answers might surprise you — and might be the key to your own Family Travel Reset. Connect with The Family Vacationer Instagram & Facebook: @TheFamilyVacationerWebsite: thefamilyvacationer.liveEmail: thefamilyvacationerpodcast@gmail.com Upcoming Events Rob’s Book Launch: The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel — coming November 11, 2025 200th Episode Celebration: Join Rob & Traci for a live recording in Orlando on December 15, 2025 — details and tickets available soon! | — | ||||||
| 10/17/25 | ![]() 250 for the 250th | Episode 197: Explore America — 250 Places to Go in 2026 with Erin Gifford Release Date: October 2025 Hosts: Rob & Traci Jones Guest: Erin Gifford — Travel Writer & Creator of Explore America: 250 Places to Go in 2026 Episode Overview America turns 250 years old in 2026, and what better way to celebrate than by hitting the open road? From legendary landmarks like Mount Rushmore and The Alamo to wonderfully weird stops like Lucy the Elephant in New Jersey, Rob and Traci are joined by travel writer Erin Gifford to explore the first 25 destinations featured in her brand-new guide, Explore America: 250 Places to Go in 2026. In this inspiring, laughter-filled conversation, Erin shares her family’s cross-country road trips, her favorite historic and quirky spots, and how parents can make travel educational and fun for kids of all ages. What You’ll Hear in This Episode How Erin’s 7½-week family road trip across the U.S. sparked her mission to see all 50 states (Hawaii is next!)Why 2026’s America 250 celebration is the perfect reason to plan a once-in-a-lifetime family tripErin’s favorite kid-friendly destinations — from mermaids in Florida to buffalo safaris in South DakotaTips for keeping kids engaged on long road tripsHow to balance “learning stops” like The Alamo or Gettysburg with pure fun like Wall Drug or Weeki Wachee SpringsHer “Must-Do Checklist” method for stress-free trip planningThe value of documenting family trips — and how a simple photo book can keep memories alive for years About Our Guest: Erin Gifford Erin Gifford is a travel writer and founder of GoHikeVirginia.com, a site dedicated to family-friendly trails and outdoor adventures in Virginia. She’s written for The Washington Post, AFAR, The Saturday Evening Post, and Costco Connection, and has authored several Falcon Guides, including Hiking with Kids: Virginia and Coastal Trails of Delaware, Maryland & Virginia. Her newest project, Explore America: 250 Places to Go in 2026, celebrates the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday with 250 handpicked destinations—historic sites, national parks, small towns, and roadside oddities—perfect for families looking to explore all corners of the country. Get the free preview and sign up for updates: 250Places.com Follow Erin on Instagram: @byErinGifford Rob’s Upcoming Book Rob’s debut book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, releases November 11, 2025! Stay tuned for preorder information coming soon. Big News — Episode 200 Celebration! Join Rob and Traci for a live recording of our 200th episode in Orlando on December 15, 2025! More details and ticket information coming soon at thefamilyvacationer.live and on Instagram @thefamilyvacationer. Episode Quote “Even if you think your kids aren’t paying attention, they’ll remember those road trip moments — the views, the laughs, the ice cream stops. That’s the magic of family travel.” — Erin Gifford Resources & Links Mentioned Explore America: 250 Places to Go in 2026 — 250Places.comGoHikeVirginia.com — Erin’s hiking and outdoor adventure siteNational Park Junior Ranger Program — nps.gov/kidsMount Rushmore National Memorial — nps.gov/moruWeeki Wachee Springs State Park — weekiwachee.comPima Air & Space Museum — pimaair.org Connect with The Family Vacationer Website: thefamilyvacationer.liveInstagram: @thefamilyvacationerFacebook: The Family Vacationer Podcast | — | ||||||
| 10/10/25 | ![]() Saving for Vacation | Episode 196: Smart Money Moves for Family Vacations with Skyler Fleming For most families, the biggest obstacle to taking that dream trip isn’t time—it’s money. The good news? With a little planning and some smart financial strategies, you can make vacations happen without draining your savings or piling on debt. In this episode, Rob talks with Skyler Fleming, Certified Financial Planner and host of the Money Talks podcast. Skyler shares practical tips to help families budget, save, and plan so travel dreams can become travel memories. From avoiding credit card traps to involving kids in the budgeting process, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for making travel financially doable—and fun. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why “splurging comfortably” is possible with the right budgetThe first steps families should take when creating a vacation budgetCommon costs families forget to plan for (and how to avoid surprise expenses)How far in advance you should start saving for a big tripSimple savings strategies that won’t eat into everyday essentialsThe truth about credit card rewards—and how to use them wiselyFun ways to involve kids in vacation budgeting and decision-makingWhy planning ahead reduces pressure and makes vacations more enjoyable About Our Guest Skyler Fleming is a Certified Financial Planner and the host of the Money Talks podcast, where he helps people build strong money habits. His practical, down-to-earth approach helps families think differently about budgeting and saving so they can enjoy life—and travel—without financial stress. Learn more at MoneyTalk.show. Resources & Links Visit Skyler’s website: MoneyTalk.showListen to the Money Talks podcast on your favorite platformFollow The Family Vacationer on Instagram and Substack Don’t Miss Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, is on the way! Filled with stories and tips to help you make your trips more meaningful, it’s coming soon—stay tuned for details. | — | ||||||
| 10/3/25 | ![]() Family Vacationer, The Book: Chapter One | Episode Description Rob and Traci share the very first chapter of Rob’s new book The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel. In this special episode, hear the heart behind the book, why family vacations are more important than ever, and how travel creates memories that last a lifetime. Plus, details on the podcast’s upcoming 200th episode celebration at Caribe Royale in Orlando this December. Show Notes What if your next family trip could be more than just a vacation? What if it could be truly meaningful? In this episode of The Family Vacationer Podcast, Rob and Traci pull back the curtain on Rob’s brand-new book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming this December. Rob reads the opening chapter, setting the stage for why family vacations matter more than ever in today’s busy, screen-filled world. You’ll hear: The personal story behind why Rob wrote this book.How family vacations act as “time capsules” of connection and memory.Why it’s not about perfect trips but about being intentional.A glimpse at the practical tools, stories, and strategies parents will find in the book.Insights from past podcast guests, including Dr. Steven Johnson (Ep. 151), whose family road trip was designed to preserve powerful “sight memories” for his son. Rob and Traci also share details about the podcast’s upcoming 200th episode celebration happening at Caribe Royale in Orlando this December. If you’re in the area, they’d love to connect with you! Family travel is messy, unpredictable, and imperfect—but it’s also where some of the most lasting memories are made. This sneak peek will inspire you to see family vacations in a whole new light. Links & Resources Pre-order details for The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel coming soon.Listen to Episode 151: A Race Against Blindness with Dr. Steven Johnson for more on meaningful memory-making.Join us for our 200th episode celebration at Caribe Royale Orlando the second weekend in December! 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes—and updates on the book launch! | — | ||||||
| 9/26/25 | ![]() Halloween Trips | Episode 194: Halloween-Themed Family Travel Pumpkin patches, ghost stories, trick-or-treating at Disney… Halloween has become more than just a night—it’s a whole travel season! In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob and Traci share the best family-friendly destinations and tips for celebrating Halloween in ways that are fun, memorable, and not-too-spooky. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Historic Halloween Towns – Salem, Massachusetts and Sleepy Hollow, New York, where history and legend come alive every October. Theme Park Magic – From Disney’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to Universal Studios’ daytime family options, plus the fall magic of Dollywood’s Harvest Fest and Great Pumpkin LumiNights.Local Adventures – Pumpkin patches, flashlight corn mazes, haunted history tours, and small-town parades that make for easy weekend getaways.Practical Tips – Packing costumes in carry-ons, layering for chilly nights, keeping kids safe with glow sticks, and candy-collection hacks to keep little arms from getting tired. Big News! Rob’s book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, is coming out in December! Pre-orders open soon—stay tuned for details.We’re celebrating our 200th episode in Orlando at the Caribe Royale the second weekend in December. If you’ll be in Orlando, let us know—we’d love to connect! Halloween is the perfect excuse to add a little travel to your fall calendar. Whether you’re heading to New England, a theme park, or just the local pumpkin patch, the memories you’ll make will last far longer than the candy. Listen now and get inspired to plan your family’s spooktacular getaway! | — | ||||||
| 9/19/25 | ![]() Tybee Island, GA | Episode 193: Chasing the Sun to Tybee Island GA with Mayor Brian West When cooler weather hits, many families put away the swimsuits—but what if you packed them for a little extra sunshine instead? In this episode, Rob kicks off our Chasing the Sun series with a trip to Tybee Island, Georgia, a laid-back beach town just minutes from Savannah. Known for wide sandy beaches, small-town charm, and family-run restaurants, Tybee is the perfect place to escape the cold. Joining us is Mayor Brian West, who shares insider tips on: Why Tybee feels worlds away from bigger beach destinationsFamily-friendly activities like lighthouse climbs, dolphin tours, kayaking, and surfing lessonsSeasonal highlights including Pirates Fest, the Christmas parade, and the springtime Beach Bum Parade (a massive island-wide water fight!)Local restaurants that make Tybee a food lover’s paradise—think fresh-off-the-dock seafood, pizza joints with live music, and creative coastal diningWhere to stay, from 1950s-style family hotels to unique vacation rentals Whether you’ve got little ones, adventurous teens, or just need a slower coastal pace, Tybee has something for everyone. 📖 Don’t forget: Rob’s upcoming book The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel releases this December. Packed with stories and strategies, it’s your guide to making every trip more intentional and rewarding. 👉 Resources & Links: Visit Tybee – Tourism site with events, lodging, and planning infoCity of Tybee – Local updates and community eventsFollow The Family Vacationer on Instagram | — | ||||||
| 9/12/25 | ![]() Traveling with Teens: Connection over Perfection | Episode 192: Vacationing With Teens – How to Stay Connected with Parenting Coach Janine Mushwar Vacationing with teens can be magical—or maddening. In this episode, Rob talks with parenting coach Janine Mushwar about how to move from conflict to connection with your teenager, both at home and while traveling. If you’ve ever felt your teen slipping away, or if vacations bring out more eye-rolls than smiles, this conversation is for you. Janine shares her own journey as a mom of three very different kids and the parenting shifts she had to make when rewards, punishments, and “the old ways” stopped working. Now, as a parenting coach, she helps families find practical strategies to reduce conflict, strengthen communication, and make family trips less stressful and more meaningful. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why vacations with teens can be both magical and challengingThe importance of shifting your parenting approach during the teenage yearsHow to balance teens’ independence with family togetherness on tripsTools to de-escalate conflict in the moment (without turning the trip into a battle)Why involving teens in the planning process makes a huge differenceWays travel can strengthen connection during family transitions—like divorce, blending families, or big movesSimple but powerful mindset shifts that help parents prioritize connection over chasing a “perfect” trip About Our Guest Janine Mushwar is a parenting coach who helps moms and dads move from conflict to connection with their teens. Drawing on her own experience raising three children and supporting hundreds of families, Janine provides practical, compassionate strategies that help parents build stronger relationships with their kids. Learn more at JanineMushwar.com and check out her short, actionable videos on YouTube. Resources & Links Visit Janine’s website: JanineMushwar.comFollow Janine on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube (@JanineMushwar)Connect with The Family Vacationer on Instagram and Substack Don’t Miss Stay tuned for Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming soon! Plus, we’re headed toward our 200th episode—with some fun surprises along the way. | — | ||||||
| 9/5/25 | ![]() Dollywood | Exploring Dollywood: Rides, Shows, and Appalachian Heritage Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood has earned its place as one of the top theme parks in the country—and for good reason. In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob sits down with Wes Ray, Vice President of Marketing for Dollywood Parks and Resorts, to explore what makes this destination so special for families. From thrilling rides like Big Bear Mountain and Dragonflier, to award-winning entertainment, Appalachian-inspired dining, and the warm hospitality that Dolly Parton herself has infused into the park, Dollywood offers something for every member of the family. You’ll also hear how guest feedback has shaped everything from wider pathways to new resort offerings, and why Dollywood consistently ranks as a #1 theme park on TripAdvisor. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The fascinating history of Dollywood and its deep ties to Appalachian culture Family-friendly rides designed with all ages in mind New additions like Wildwood Grove and Big Bear Mountain Dolly Parton’s direct influence on the park’s design and guest experience Insider tips for making the most of your visit—whether you’re coming for a day or a week What’s next for Dollywood, from resorts to new attractions Dollywood isn’t just a theme park—it’s a celebration of heritage, hospitality, and family fun. Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fiftieth, this episode will inspire your next Smoky Mountain getaway. Dollywood Dreammore Resort Heartsong Resort 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on Instagram and Substack for even more family travel tips and inspiration. Be on the lookout for Rob's first book, "The Family Vacationer: A Parent's Guide to Meaningful Travel." Coming soon!! Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open. Safe travels, everyone. | — | ||||||
| 8/29/25 | ![]() Regenerative Travel | Regenerative Travel for Families with Kirsten Ovstaas If you’ve ever wondered how your family vacations could give back to the places you visit, this episode is for you. In Episode 190 of The Family Vacationer, Rob sits down with regenerative travel advocate Kirsten Ovstaas to explore how families can make travel not just sustainable—but regenerative. Regenerative travel goes beyond reducing your footprint. It’s about restoring, replenishing, and leaving a destination better than you found it. Kirsten shares practical ways families can start small, engage with local communities, and make their vacations a force for good. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between sustainable and regenerative travel Why regenerative practices matter for families and kids Simple first steps—like beach cleans and local dining—that any family can do Examples of destinations offering regenerative experiences (Hawaii, British Columbia, Copenhagen, and more) How to research and choose businesses that truly benefit local communities Common misconceptions about regenerative travel (and why they’re wrong) How regenerative travel can inspire kids and shape their future values Travel memories are some of the most powerful a family can create. Imagine adding the joy of knowing your trip left a positive mark on the world. This conversation will inspire you to rethink your travel habits and embrace new ways to connect, give back, and grow together as a family. 👉 Learn more about Kirsten’s work and ReBC (Regenerative Travel British Columbia) at ReBCTravel.ca or follow them on Instagram at @ReBCTravel. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer and connect with us on Instagram and Substack for more family travel inspiration. Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open. Safe travels, everyone. | — | ||||||
| 8/22/25 | ![]() The Best Beach Town in the US | Episode 188: Discover Why Destin, Florida is The Family Vacationer’s Favorite Beach Town In this episode, Rob and Traci wrap up their popular “Best Beach Towns in the US” series with their top pick: Destin and Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Known for its stunning emerald green waters and powdery white sand, Destin is a family favorite that offers more than just beautiful beaches. Jennifer Adams, President of the Destin Fort Walton Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, joins the show to share insider tips on how families can make the most of their trip—from adventurous water activities and kid-friendly experiences to local dining favorites and seasonal festivals. She also highlights unique programs like “Little Adventures” designed to get kids unplugged and exploring nature. Whether you’re curious about the diverse beach neighborhoods, fishing fleets, or hidden gems like the Spector Islands, Jennifer covers it all. Plus, get the scoop on safety tips, eco-friendly tourism, and how Destin balances being a bustling tourist hotspot with a welcoming community vibe. Tune in for advice on the best times to visit, family lodging options, and activities that will appeal to all ages—including teens! Resources Mentioned: Visit Destin Fort Walton Beach: destinFWB.comLittle Adventures & Free Classes: adventureDFWB.com Have you visited Destin? We’d love to hear your favorite family memories from the area! Reach out to us on Instagram or Substack and join the conversation. Subscribe to The Family Vacationer wherever you get your podcasts and keep your passports and hearts open for your next adventure! | — | ||||||
| 8/15/25 | ![]() Isle of Palms, SC | Episode 188 – Isle of Palms, South Carolina We’re making our next stop on The Family Vacationer’s tour of the Best Beach Towns in the US — and this time, we’re heading to a barrier island paradise just outside Charleston, South Carolina. The Isle of Palms is known for its wide, family-friendly beaches, charming local restaurants, and laid-back coastal vibe. Joining Rob is Alex Stone, President of the Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce and CEO of Island Realty, to share insider tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your visit. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why Isle of Palms offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and modern conveniencesFamily-friendly lodging options, from cozy cottages to resort staysThe unique character of Isle of Palms beaches and their kid-friendly tidal poolsActivities for kids, teens, and adults — from paddleboarding to shark tooth huntingLocal dining spots you won’t want to missDay trip ideas to Charleston, Sullivan’s Island, and beyondExpert tips to help you plan and book your perfect beach getaway Links from this episode: Visit Isle of Palms – Official visitor informationIsland Realty – Vacation rentals and lodging optionsCharleston Area Visitors Bureau – Regional attractions and events Coming Soon: Rob’s first Family Vacationer book! Packed with stories, tips, and inspiration to help you create unforgettable family travel memories. Stay tuned here and on our socials for the release date. | — | ||||||
| 8/2/25 | ![]() Gulf Shores and Orange Beach | Episode 187: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Alabama’s Gulf Coast: Family Fun, Fresh Seafood, and Festival Vibes Episode Description: In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob takes us back to two of Alabama’s most beloved beach towns—Gulf Shores and Orange Beach—for a fresh look at all they offer families. With 32 miles of white-sand beaches, exciting waterfront attractions, real fishing adventures, and a food scene worth the trip alone, this stretch of the Alabama coast proves you don’t need to go far for a perfect family vacation. Whether you're planning your next summer escape or looking for a fall festival getaway, this episode has the insider tips, hotel recommendations, and safety advice to make your trip unforgettable. What You’ll Learn: Family-friendly attractions at The Wharf (ferris wheel, VR arcade, zipline, laser light shows, and more)Where to stay: Beach Club Resort & Spa, Turquoise Place, Perdido Beach Resort, and other family favesFishing in Gulf Shores: What you can catch inshore, nearshore, and deep seaDining with kids: Lulu’s, The Gulf, Cobalt, Doc’s Seafood, and moreCan’t-miss festivals like the National Shrimp Festival, Frank Brown Songwriters Festival, and Hangout FestBeach safety tips, sea turtle awareness, and local delivery options Resources: GulfShores.comThe Wharf at Orange BeachLuLu's | — | ||||||
| 7/18/25 | ![]() St. Augustine | The Family Vacationer - Episode 185 Destination: St. Augustine, Florida – Where History and Beaches Collide Guest: Barbara Golden, Communications Manager, Florida’s Historic Coast Heads up, eagle-eyed listeners! Yes, we also noticed we skipped Episode 185 last week... the person responsible has been politely but firmly relieved of their podcast-numbering duties. (Don't worry, we gave them a map to the Fountain of Youth as severance.) If you’re looking for a family vacation spot that blends centuries of history with sandy toes and salt air, St. Augustine is calling your name. In this episode, Rob and Traci welcome back friend of the show Barbara Golden, who takes us on a virtual tour through America’s oldest city. What You'll Learn: Why St. Augustine is more than just a beach town (spoiler: pirates AND archaeology!)The rich cultural tapestry behind the nation’s oldest continuously occupied European settlementHow to mix sun, surf, and centuries of history into one epic family vacationThe best interactive museums for kids (think: cannon fire, pirate ships, and animatronic schoolhouses)Top beaches, family-friendly activities, hidden gems, and unbeatable food spots (hello, fried shrimp and chocolate factory) Local Flavor Highlights: Where to find legendary fried shrimp and fresh-caught grouperThe scoop on must-visit dessert spots like Peace Pies and The Hyppo Gourmet PopsBest rooftop dining for ocean views (and maybe a grouper taco or two) Can't-Miss Attractions: Castillo de San Marcos and its cannon demonstrationsAnastasia State Park’s sugar-white beachesPirate and Treasure Museum, Alligator Farm, and Colonial QuarterHistoric trolley tours, kayak adventures, and beachcombing for shark teeth Where to Stay: Beachfront family favorites like Embassy Suites Oceanfront and Guy Harvey ResortCharming historic inns downtown that welcome familiesUpscale golf resorts and glamping options nearby Planning Tips: Best times to visit for weather, crowds, and festivals (like Nights of Lights ✨ and Sing Out Loud 🎶)Smart seasonal strategies (Hint: hit the beach in the morning, museums in the afternoon!)Must-know family travel tips from a local insider One Perfect Day in St. Augustine? Start with a trolley tour, explore a hands-on museum, relax on the beach, eat something unforgettable, and top it off with a Peace Pie. (You’re welcome.) Mentioned in this Episode: Florida’s Historic CoastAnastasia State ParkCastillo de San Marcos Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and follow us on Instagram @thefamilyvacationer and Substack for more family travel inspiration. Rob's Reminder: "Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open." Traci’s Sendoff: "Safe travels everyone." | — | ||||||
| 7/11/25 | ![]() Traverse City, MI | Episode 186: Traverse City, MI – Best Beach Towns in the US (Freshwater Edition) Description: We’re heading north to Michigan for this stop in our Best Beach Towns in the US series—and it’s one we’ve loved before! Rob welcomes back Mike Kent from Traverse City Tourism to dive into what makes this lakefront gem one of the best beach towns in the country. From sand dunes and sailboats to cherry pie and goat yoga (yes, really), Traverse City proves you don’t need an ocean to find the ultimate family beach getaway. In This Episode: The stunning freshwater setting of Grand Traverse BayA short modern history: from cherry capital to wine countryThe unique microclimate, sandy soil, and how it supports both cherries and world-class wineSleeping Bear Dunes: 60 miles of shoreline and national acclaimFamily-friendly beach options, paddleboarding, kayaking, and yes—fishing!Accessibility and inclusion: the first autism-certified travel destination in the MidwestTraverse City’s booming food scene: from farm-to-table to food trucks and cherry pie flightsSummer festivals including the 100th National Cherry Festival that's coming in 2026Why shoulder season might be your best time to visitMike’s favorite childhood summer memory—and how families can make their ownThe #1 thing every first-time visitor should do before leaving town Mentioned in the Episode: TraverseCity.com – Plan your trip and explore all the activities, trails, and eventsTraverse City Food & Wine – August culinary celebrationMoomers Ice Cream, Cherry Republic, Farm Club, Right Brain BreweryChateau Chantal's “Jazz at Sunset”National Cherry Festival – celebrating 100 years in 2025!Autism Certified Designation – commitment to sensory-friendly experiences Follow Us! ➡️ Subscribe to The Family Vacationer wherever you get your podcasts 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer 📬 Get more travel tips on our Substack Rob’s Reminder: "Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open." Traci’s Tagline (even when off this week): "Safe travels everyone." | — | ||||||
| 7/4/25 | ![]() Ocean City, MD | Episode 184: Ocean City, Maryland – A Family Beach Classic This week on The Family Vacationer, we're kicking off our new series, The Best Beach Towns in the U.S., and first up is one of the most beloved beach towns on the East Coast—Ocean City, Maryland! While we will eventually name one destination as The Family Vacationer's Best Beach Town, the truth is, whichever of these coastal gems you choose, you win. In this episode, Rob is joined by Ocean City’s Mayor Richard Meehan in a first-ever mayoral interview for the podcast! Together, they dive deep into what makes Ocean City a multigenerational vacation haven. We explore: The modern history of Ocean City, from its roots as a fishing village to a booming beach resortWhy Ocean City’s nostalgic charm continues to attract families year after yearFree, family-friendly beach access and the iconic boardwalk experienceMust-see attractions like Trimper’s Rides and Jolly Roger Amusement PierSeasonal festivals from Springfest to Winterfest of LightsHidden local favorites like biking the boardwalk and bayside crabbingInclusive amenities for families with special needsFamily-friendly dining with playgrounds at restaurants like Fishtales and RopewalkUnique accommodations including the Carousel Hotel with an ice rink!Efforts to retain Ocean City’s charm amidst modern growthExciting projects like a new bayfront park and a planned world-class sports complex Whether you're planning your first visit or your fifteenth, Ocean City delivers smiles, sunrises, and memories to last a lifetime. A special thank you to Lauren Davis, Government Relations Manager with the Mayor’s Office, for making this interview possible. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on Instagram and Substack for more family travel inspiration. Thank you to Scott Carpenter for the new theme song! Make sure and listen all the way to the end for the world premiere of The Family Vacationer Theme Song! Thanks, Scottie! Closing Reminder: Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open. Safe travels everyone! | — | ||||||
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