Way Back When

Luxury Meets History: Barge Cruising England’s Iconic Thames River

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of "Quiltripping Travel with Rose" on Big Blend Radio!
Travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her unforgettable experience celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary aboard the Magna Carta barge with European Waterways. This luxurious barge cruise along England’s historic Thames River blends elegance, culture, and centuries of history — from Oxford to Hampton Court.
Along the way, Rose and her fellow travelers explored iconic and historic sites such as Christ Church College in Oxford, Cliveden House, Dorney Court, Windsor Castle, Runnymede, and Hampton Court Palace. The conversation delves into the preservation of historic barges, the exceptional culinary experiences onboard, and the natural beauty that defines the Thames — from swans gliding by to rainbows after the rain. Rose also shares insights into filming locations tied to British television and film and teases her next adventure cruising the Mediterranean.
🌐 Read Rose's article about her Thames River barge cruise: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/celebrating-our-40th-anniversary-with-a-luxury-english-barge-cruise/🔗 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 
📲 This episode is also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, and Way Back When Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Queen Esther on Gettysburg, Resilience, and Her Album Blackbirding

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Queen Esther, who completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist residency at Gettysburg National Military Park in 2020.
Queen Esther reflects on her artistic journey, the emotional impact of her Gettysburg residency, and the themes of her upcoming album Blackbirding. The conversation delves into the historical significance of Gettysburg, the concept of blackbirding, and the power of art in preserving and conveying history. She emphasizes the resilience of the Black community and the importance of understanding the past to navigate the present and future.
The discussion also touches on the role of women in history and politics, spirituality in music, and the significance of artistic expression during challenging times.
🎵 The first single Hold Steady is available here: https://ffm.to/holdsteady 
🎵 Pre-save or order the full album Blackbirding here: https://ffm.to/qeblackbirding 
🌐 Learn more about Queen Esther: https://www.queen-esther.com 
🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org 

Charming Quebec City: History, Festivals, Nature and Culinary Delights

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon”, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us to the old-world charm of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only walled city in North America.
From strolling cobblestone streets to enjoying lively festivals that celebrate French heritage, this conversation explores the city’s rich history, cultural vibrancy, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Listeners will also hear about outdoor adventures like e-biking and kayaking, Quebec’s renowned culinary scene featuring regional wines and Michelin-starred dining, and travel tips including the best times to visit and how to make the most of your stay with a privilege pass. Whether in winter or summer, Quebec City is truly a destination for all seasons.
📝 Read Sharon’s full article:https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/quebec-city-step-into-old-world-charm/ 
🌐 Plan your visit to Quebec City:https://www.quebec-cite.com/en 
🎙️ Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz:https://sharonkkurtz.com 
📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 
🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Way Back When podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Maine Sailing Adventure Aboard the Historic J&E Riggin Schooner

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Podcast, host/travel writer Terri Guthrie takes us aboard a genuine National Landmark: the historic schooner, the J & E Riggin, in Maine.
In this special conversation, Terri, along with her husband Ron and the schooner's owners, Captains Justin and Jocelyn, share their firsthand experience of sailing Maine's stunning Penobscot Bay. You'll hear how to "trade schedules for sea breezes, and screens for starlight" on this all-inclusive, 3- to 6-night adventure.
The episode delves into:- Life Aboard: The rhythm of the tides, the optional joy of helping hoist sails, and the camaraderie that develops among guests, affectionately called "Riggin Relics."
- Gourmet Coastal Cuisine: The gourmet meals prepared by Chef Jocelyn and her crew, including the unforgettable, traditional Island Lobster Bake, where lobsters are boiled in seawater on an uninhabited island.
- Timeless Traditions: The schooner's rich history dating back to 1927 and the unique magic of the Wooden Boat Rendezvous, where a flotilla of classic windjammers rafts up for a night of sea shanties and shared stories.
Join us for this inspiring look at a unique vacation that blends adventure, history, culinary delights, and the simple joy of being fully present on the open sea.
Learn More:- J & E Riggin Schooner: https://www.schoonerriggin.com/ - Terri's Article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/a-journey-aboard-the-historic-schooner-je-riggin/ 
Listen: - Travel with Terri airs Every Tuesday: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ - Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, and Parks & Travel, and Way Back When podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  
Keep up with Terri's Adventures: https://travelwithterri.net     

Exploring Dublin: History, Heritage and Cultural Connections

Join us on Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" podcast, airing every 4th Saturday, as historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows shares his recent experiences in Dublin, Ireland. From visiting the Jeannie Johnston ship, which never lost a passenger during its famine voyages, to exploring the General Post Office, the site of the 1916 Easter Rising, Glynn delves into Dublin’s powerful legacy and cultural significance.
This conversation also celebrates World Tourism Day and Ancestor Appreciation Day, reflecting on how travel fosters cultural understanding and how exploring our roots deepens our connection to history. From music as a soulful storytelling tradition to the flavors that shape community identity, this episode highlights how heritage lives on in everyday experiences.
🔗 Learn more:- Read Glynn's article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/dublin-a-short-visit-a-long-history/  - Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/  - English Connection Podcast: https://english-connection.podbean.com/  
✨ Takeaways:- Dublin is a welcoming city with a deep, layered history.- The Jeannie Johnston ship symbolizes hope, as it never lost a passenger.- The Easter Rising of 1916 reshaped Ireland’s future.- Understanding history helps us navigate the present and build unity.- Music and food serve as vital threads of cultural identity.- Exploring ancestry enriches personal and cultural understanding.
👉 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Way Back When podcast channels. Explore the podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

America’s National Parks: Your Passport to Memories

Join us on the Parks & Travel Show as we chat with Stanley Anton from America's National Parks! Learn about the organization's mission to support the National Park Service and get the inside scoop on the exciting new Passport to the American Revolution. This special passport helps you discover nearly 50 national park sites tied to America's 250th anniversary, making history come alive for the whole family. Families can combine the passport program with the Junior Ranger program to encourage kids to learn, explore, and protect national parks while creating lifelong memories together.
MORE ABOUT THIS EPISODEAbout America's National Parks: For over 70 years, the organization has supported the National Park Service, giving back over $183 million through purchases and donations. Their popular Passport to Your National Parks® program, started in 1986, allows visitors to collect stamps and create treasured family memories.
Learn More & Shop:- America’s National Parks: https://americasnationalparks.org/ - America’s National Parks Store Locator & Online Shop: https://americasnationalparks.org/shop-our-stores/ - Passport to the American Revolution: https://americasnationalparks.org/americas-250th/ 
Related Reading & Listening- Historic Lexington & Concord, Massachusetts: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/history-comes-alive-in-lexington-and-concord-part-1/ - California’s Sequoia Country Podcast: https://discover-the-sequoias.podbean.com/ 
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to America’s National Parks02:57 – The Role of America’s National Parks05:53 – Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary09:11 – New Passport to the American Revolution12:04 – Educational Initiatives & Junior Ranger Programs14:57 – Collecting Memories: The Passport Experience17:43 – Personal Park Experiences & Recommendations
Listen to More Big Blend Radio:- Subscribe to “Parks & Travel” on your favorite platform: https://parks-travel.podbean.com/ - This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Way Back When" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the network of shows here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Tour Cayuga County: Harriet Tubman’s Legacy, Culinary Trails & Finger Lakes Adventures

Discover everything Cayuga County has to offer, from seasonal outdoor activities and unique culinary experiences like the Sweet Treats Trail, to art and music festivals, wineries, and community events. We dive into the area’s stunning landscapes shaped by its unique geography and agricultural roots, especially in wine, apple, and agricultural production. Whether you're interested in lakeside adventures, historic sites, or charming B&Bs, this episode has something for every traveler.
Our conversation also highlights the Erie Canal bicentennial, the enduring legacy of Harriet Tubman and women’s history, and how Cayuga County continues to inspire travelers with its blend of culture, cuisine, and outdoor beauty.
🗺️ Plan your visit: https://www.tourcayuga.com/ 🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to IFWTWA01:52 - Cayuga County's History & Harriet Tubman04:38 - Celebrating Women's History07:22 - A Legacy of Generosity and Care08:00 - The Role of Quilts in History10:45 - Experiential Learning Through Travel13:21 - Exploring the Great Lakes14:08 - New York's Hidden Gems16:56 - The Beauty of the Finger Lakes19:47 - Seasonal Activities (Autumn & Winter)22:25 - Culinary Delights: Sweet Treats & Local Produce25:12 - Wineries and Craft Beverages28:04 - The Arts and Music Scene30:49 - Festivals and Community Events33:43 - Lodging and Local Hospitality36:24 - Historical Significance & The Future of the Region
📢 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," "Way Back When," and "Women Making History" podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Easter Island: A Journey to Rapa Nui & the Mysteries of the Moai

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wanderers Compass” Travel Podcast, co-hosts Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass Travel Blog share their unforgettable journey to Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui. From the iconic Moai statues and the ancient Birdman competition to local food, culture, and hidden discoveries, this conversation brings to life the history, traditions, and mysteries of one of the world’s most remote and fascinating destinations.
They discuss the cultural significance of the Moai, the importance of preserving heritage, and how respecting the past deepens the travel experience. You’ll also hear about practical tips for visiting this bucket list destination, favorite local flavors (especially fresh seafood), and activities to enjoy beyond the statues.
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps00:00 Exploring Easter Island: A Bucket List Destination02:55 The Journey to Rapa Nui: Planning and Expectations05:31 Cultural Significance of the Moai Statues08:38 The Birdman Competition: History and Tradition11:20 The Mysteries Beneath: Discoveries of the Moai13:49 Respecting the Past: Preservation of the Moai16:27 Experiencing Rapa Nui: Local Culture and Guides19:03 The Connection of Polynesian Cultures21:59 The Impact of Tourism on Rapa Nui24:28 Practical Tips for Visiting Easter Island33:08 Weather Wonders on Easter Island34:21 Culinary Delights: Food and Drink on the Island36:55 Cultural Connections: Food Presentation and Local Cuisine41:40 Spiritual Ties: Respecting the Land and Its People43:43 Unique Experiences: Horses, Snorkeling, and Local Life47:34 Travel Tips: Planning for Easter Island51:13 The Importance of Research in Travel56:02 Engaging with Local Culture: Beyond the Tourist Experience
📖 Learn more from Wanderers Compass:- Rapa Nui, Easter Island Travel Guide: https://www.wandererscompass.com/rapa-nui-easter-island-travel-guide/ - 8 Things to Love About Easter Island (Beyond the Moai): https://fwtmagazine.com/8-things-to-love-about-easter-island-beyond-the-moai 
🎧 Follow Wanderers Compass:https://www.wandererscompass.com/ https://www.instagram.com/wandererscompasstravelblog/ https://www.facebook.com/wandererscompasstravelblog 
📅 New episodes every second Monday on Big Blend Radio: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on the “Vacation Station,” “Parks & Travel,” and “Way Back When” podcast channels on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork