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  • Meet the Founders of Tourissimo: Italy’s Premier Hiking and Cycling Tour Company for Authentic Travel

    Meet the Founders of Tourissimo: Italy’s Premier Hiking and Cycling Tour Company for Authentic Travel
    2025/04/08

    Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.
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    42 分
  • Family Travel and Featured Trips with Travel Agent Erin Morgenthal

    Family Travel and Featured Trips with Travel Agent Erin Morgenthal
    2025/03/25

    Family Travel and Featured Trips with Travel Agent Erin Morgenthal

    For our final chat with travel guru Erin Morgenthal, we focused on family travel and the incredible featured trips she offers through her work as a travel agent.

    Family Travel Tips:

    Erin recommended cruises as a fantastic option for families. "Cruises offer built-in entertainment for all ages, which makes them perfect for family travel," she said. She also shared packing tips, money-saving strategies, and advice for traveling with young children.

    Traveling with Autistic Kids:

    As a Certified Autism Travel Professional (CATP), Erin provided invaluable tips for families traveling with autistic children. From sensory-friendly travel strategies to autism-friendly destinations, Erin is dedicated to making travel accessible and enjoyable for every family.

    "Preparation is key," Erin emphasized. "Whether it’s requesting special assistance at the airport or finding sensory-friendly activities, there are ways to ensure a smooth travel experience." She gives a lot of tips on how to travel with your autistic child!

    Featured Trips for 2025:

    Erin also shared some of her featured trips, including an exciting Summer 2025 Greek Isles and Turkey adventure and a Spring Break 2025 getaway.

    "These trips are designed with families in mind, offering incredible experiences at great value," she said.

    Here’s where to find Erin to connect with her and learn more about planning your next adventure:www.wanderofftravel.com & erinmorgenthal.com, and on instagram at @wanderoffwitherin & @wanderofftravelco

    Stay adventurous, Travel Brats!
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    27 分
  • Comparing Travel Experiences with Erin Morgenthal

    Comparing Travel Experiences with Erin Morgenthal
    2025/03/11

    Comparing & Contrasting Travel Plans with Erin Morgenthal

    We’re thrilled to have travel expert Erin Morgenthal with us again to dive into the pros and cons of three popular vacation styles: cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and theme parks.

    All-Inclusive Vacations:

    In our interview, Erin broke down what’s typically included in all-inclusive packages: meals, drinks, entertainment, activities, airport transfers, and even tips. She shared insights on the dining options, the variety of activities, and potential hidden fees.

    "All-inclusives offer great value if you want a hassle-free vacation," Erin said.

    Cruising 101:

    As a certified cruise specialist, Erin shared why cruising offers a unique way to see multiple destinations with convenience. She books with top cruise lines and highlighted the benefits of doing excursions through the cruise line versus independently.

    "Cruises offer something for everyone," Erin noted. "You can find relaxation, adventure, and amazing dining experiences all in one place."

    Theme Park Adventures:

    When it comes to theme parks, timing is everything. Erin offered tips on visiting during off-peak times, saving money on tickets, and making the most of tools like FastPass or Genie+ at Disney.

    "Theme parks can be magical for families, but planning ahead is key," she said.

    Comparing the Experiences:

    "All-inclusives offer relaxation, cruises offer variety, and theme parks provide excitement. It all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for."

    Here’s where to find Erin to connect with her and learn more about planning your next adventure: www.wanderofftravel.com & erinmorgenthal.com, and on instagram at @wanderoffwitherin & @wanderofftravelco

    Check out this week’s episode as well as our last episode to get all of the details from Erin Morgenthal!

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    43 分
  • Introducing Wander off Travel with Erin Morgenthal!

    Introducing Wander off Travel with Erin Morgenthal!
    2025/02/25

    Hello, Travel Brats! Today, we’re excited to introduce you to a travel expert and vacation planner extraordinaire, Erin Morgenthal. Whether you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked beach retreat, a mountain expedition, a cultural immersion in a vibrant city, or a luxurious cruise across the seas, Erin’s got you covered!

    Erin owns Wander Off Travel and holds certifications as a travel associate, cruise counselor, and autism travel professional. Whether you are a family, a solo traveler, or any adventure seeker, Erin is all about turning your wanderlust into a reality that fits your travel style.

    While chatting with Erin for the podcast, she shared that her love of travel started early. Originally from North Central Indiana, after growing up on a farm, at 18 Erin moved to Chicago and spent 20 years there, and now resides in central Florida, where she helps clients create unforgettable travel experiences.

    "Travel has always been a part of who I am," Erin explained. "I love exploring new places and helping others do the same." She was inspired as a child by her Grandmother, who was an intrepid traveler and never stopped going to new and exciting places.

    The Story Behind Erin’s business, Wander Off Travel, began in 2018 after she had been helping people plan trips to Disney - starting out more casually and then making the transition to getting paid to plan trips for people! Her approach to travel planning is all about personalization, and she loves working as a luxury travel concierge.

    She starts by understanding her clients’ needs. Asking them good and specific questions to get a clear picture of what they want out of the trip. From there, she focuses on creating value and finding the best experiences, whether it’s flights, activities, or accommodations. “In the travel industry there are so many options,” Erin shared. “But what I provide is creating an experience for my clients. It’s curating an itinerary and making sure that they leave their trip, come home, and feel like they got something out of it.”

    Erin really wants travel to be accessible to everyone! And when it comes to deals versus value, Erin prioritizes giving her clients the best experience for their budget. "Sometimes the best deal isn’t the cheapest option," she noted. "It’s about finding what brings the most joy and convenience to your trip."

    Some of Erin’s favorite destinations with all her travel expertise, include the below:

    • Cruises: Erin loves the river cruises in Europe (Ama & Viking, especially!), Royal Caribbean & the newer Carnival ships (family), and Virgin Voyages (adult only)
    • Honduras or Costa Rica as a tropical destination
    • New York City
    • All-Inclusive Resorts: Her top picks include the Hyatt Zilara in the DR, Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts, and Secrets Resorts for adults
    • Theme Parks: Erin is a huge fan of Walt Disney World, as well as Disneyland, but also really loves Universal in Florida
    • National Parks: Yellowstone, Denali, Moab, The Grand Canyon

    Here’s where to find Erin to connect with her and learn more about planning your next adventure:

    www.wanderofftravel.com

    & erinmorgenthal.com, and on instagram at @wanderoffwitherin & @wanderofftravelco
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    24 分
  • Healthy Traveling with Dr. Erin Kinney

    Healthy Traveling with Dr. Erin Kinney
    2025/02/11
    Hydration is KeyOne of the biggest mistakes travelers make is not drinking enough water. Air travel, hot climates, and constant movement can dehydrate you fast, leading to fatigue and brain fog. The fix? Always carry a reusable water bottle and sip consistently throughout the day. Bonus tip: Add an electrolyte packet to your water to replenish lost minerals and stay even more refreshed! Dr. Kinney recommends using high-quality electrolytes if you want to take your hydration and energy levels up a notch. Her top picks include LMNT to help replenish essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium—perfect for preventing dehydration and keeping your body balanced while traveling. Fun fact, electrolytes also keep you from having to constantly hit the restroom on the plane!Dr. Kinney’s Go-To SupplementsDr. Kinney also suggests packing a few key supplements to keep your immune system strong and stress levels low. Some of her must-haves include:Magnesium – Helps with constipation, relaxation, sleep, and muscle recovery.B Vitamins – Supports energy levels and combats travel fatigue.Vitamin C – Boosts the immune system to keep you feeling great.Probiotics – Aids digestion and keeps your gut happy after eating new foods.Adaptogens (like Ashwagandha) – Helps regulate stress and keep your body in balance.Zinc – Supports the immune system by helping the body fight off infections, making it essential for avoiding travel-related colds and sickness.Breathe Your Stress AwayFeeling overwhelmed in a crowded airport or a busy city? Deep belly breathing can work wonders to reset your nervous system. A simple but powerful technique is the 4-Second Breathing Method:Inhale deeply through your nose for four seconds.Hold your breath for four seconds.Exhale slowly through your mouth for four seconds.Repeat as needed.This method helps calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and bring you back to the present moment—perfect for travel anxiety, flight delays, or any stressful situation on the road. You can even use this breathing practice before you eat to combat bloating and stomach discomfort.Smart Snacking for Endless EnergyWe’ve all been there—running through an airport, starving, only to grab a sugary snack that leads to a crash an hour later. Instead, plan ahead! Pack protein-rich snacks like nuts, jerky, or protein bars to keep your energy levels steady and avoid those dreaded sugar highs and lows. Your future self will thank you!Move Your Body, Even on the GoSitting for long periods, whether on a plane, train, or car ride, can leave you feeling stiff and sluggish. Combat travel fatigue by stretching regularly and sneaking in movement whenever possible. A quick walk around the airport, a few yoga poses in your hotel room, or even some simple neck and shoulder stretches can do wonders for keeping your body happy.Reset Your Sleep Cycle with SunlightJet lag can be a real struggle, but one of the best ways to adjust to a new time zone quickly is by soaking up natural sunlight. As soon as you arrive, try to spend some time outside—whether it’s a morning walk, a coffee on a sunny patio, or simply sitting by a window. Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to adjust and sleep better.Recovering After Your TripEven with the best travel wellness habits, returning home can leave you feeling a little drained. Here’s how to bounce back quickly:Hydrate and replenish – Keep drinking water and use electrolytes to restore balance.Get extra rest – Allow yourself an extra hour of sleep for a few nights to recover.Move gently – Light stretching, yoga, or walking can help loosen up any stiffness.Eat nourishing foods – Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and lots of greens to reset your body.Unwind and de-stress – Take a bath, meditate, or use deep breathing to transition back into your routine smoothly.Get a massage – A massage can help relax muscles and, the mind and circulate blood flow after an intense trip.Handling Hiccups in Your TripNo matter how well you plan, travel can throw unexpected challenges your way—missed flights, lost luggage, bad weather, or sudden illness. The key is to stay flexible and have a backup plan. Here’s how to navigate travel hiccups with ease:Missed flight? Stay calm, speak to the airline immediately, and check if you can be rebooked on the next available flight.Lost luggage? File a claim as soon as possible and keep essential items like medications, chargers, and one outfit in your carry-on.Feeling unwell? Carry basic medications and supplements to help with digestion, headaches, or colds. Rest and hydrate until you feel better.Is bad weather ruining plans? Embrace the change—check out indoor attractions, try new restaurants, or enjoy some downtime to recharge.Tech troubles? Keep copies of important travel documents in your email or cloud storage so you can access them even if your phone or laptop dies.Think Positive – Always try to ...
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    29 分
  • Dive into Dating, Dallas, and Dreams with Ella Parlor!

    Dive into Dating, Dallas, and Dreams with Ella Parlor!
    2025/01/28

    In our Part Two of Most Memorable Travel Stories with Ella Parlor, she tells us a little bit about her dating experiences and what made her want to move all the way to Dallas, TX from her life in Cali. Join the fun as Sofia and Ella discuss!

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    17 分
  • Getting to Know Belgian Basketball Pro and Travel Guru Nick Mornard

    Getting to Know Belgian Basketball Pro and Travel Guru Nick Mornard
    2025/01/14
    Nick Mornard is a serial entrepreneur, travel agent, podcaster, and author based in Southwest Florida. After immigrating to the United States in 2013 with the goal of achieving the American dream, he became a leadership and mindset expert. With his unique perspective on success, travel, and influence, Nick has inspired many and penned the book Mindset Is My Degree.Welcome, Nick! Tell us a little about yourself.Thank you for having me! I’m originally from Belgium. When I first arrived in the United States, I spoke no English, which made navigating this new chapter quite a challenge. But it was also one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and coming to the U.S. allowed me to channel that into extremely meaningful pursuits—like starting my travel agency and sharing my travel mental and professional journey through writing.Why did you want to move to the U.S.?At 9 years old, I came to visit Florida for three weeks and I came back obsessed with America. The American flag was all over my room and my dream board. At the top of my dream board, I wrote, “I will move to the United States one day.” I knew I was going to move to the U.S. one day. I finally moved to the U.S. at 33 years old, but it was all worth it.What was it like moving to the U.S. from Belgium?It was quite a polar cultural shift. Belgium is known for its history, architecture, and small-town historic charm, while the U.S. is much larger in scale and offers endless opportunities. Adjusting to a new language and lifestyle was tough, but it taught me resilience and adaptability—qualities that are central to my work today.What do you love most about Southwest Florida? Do you have any favorite spots?Southwest Florida is paradise! Palm Trees are “freedom” to me. The scenery, the weather, and the beaches are stunning, and the community is warm and welcoming. My favorite beach spots include Barefoot Beach, and Lovers Key State Park—they’re perfect for relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty. As for food, I’m a fan of the Cooper’s Hawk Restaurants in Naples and Fort Myers. For travelers visiting SWFL, what are your must-do recommendations?There’s so much to explore! The beaches and islands like Sanibel and Captiva are stunning. I’d suggest staying at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples for a luxurious experience or trying out the smaller boutique hotels for a cozy vibe. Be sure to visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for some history and take a kayak tour through the mangroves at the Estero River Outfitters. And of course, don’t miss out on the local seafood—it’s some of the freshest you’ll ever taste! The outlets and outdoor malls like 5th Avenue in Naples and Miromar Outlets in Estero have great shopping. You can even travel up to places like Siesta Key for extra adventures.What sparked your love of travel?It’s in my DNA. Growing up in Europe and playing professional basketball, travel became a big part of my life. In Europe, countries are so close together. In the U.S. I traveled to New York, NOLA, Vegas, and other fun cities. I’ve always been curious about experiencing new cultures, meeting people, and seeing the world from different perspectives.What are your favorite places you’ve visited?I’d have to say Antarctica even though I hate cold weather! I took a Seabourn cruise through Antarctica and it was the best experience of my life. In Europe, Barcelona is my favorite city because it has everything. It has a fantastic beach, extravagant architecture, amazing city life, top-notch food, and a fantastic cruise port. I love Las Ramblas Boulevard for the “people watching” and music. I also love Budapest. It is a totally underrated city with extremely nice people and very affordable prices. People in Croatia are also extremely nice and beautiful. If you like beer and “real” French Fries, check out my home country of Belgium. Each place left a lasting impression on me for different reasons.What’s your favorite way to travel?I’m a fan of cruising. There’s nothing like waking up to a new destination every day without having to unpack and pack up again for the next spot. My two best-selling adult cruiseliners are Celebrity Cruises and Virgin Voyages. These cruise liners have great food and no kids! Virgin has a one-star Michelin chef onboard. Celebrity is very similar to top all-inclusive hotels. The service is top-notch and they have the best sea casino. I love smaller, luxury river cruises through Europe as well. You definitely need to experience Greece on a cruise. There are lots of small places that day trips are perfect for. Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean island cruises are also great. I really love to cruise from California to Hawaii & Tahiti. I have also been on a 26-day cruise from Sydney Australia to San Francisco visiting all the islands along the way. Cruising is not the best option for people who want to experience all the nightlife of a ...
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    40 分
  • A Travel Brat Kind of Year!

    A Travel Brat Kind of Year!
    2024/12/31

    Join Sofia and Natalie as they share some of their Travel Brat Highlights from 2024! From this year's travel spots, to personal highs and lows, to telling you some of their favorite episodes from Season 4, you won't want to miss it.

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    42 分