Wondering when to book your dream vacation to get the best value? In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie break down the real cost differences between peak season and off-season travel—and the savings might surprise you.

Travel advisors Ryan and Julie, co-owners of Wonder and Beyond Travel, analyze three popular vacation types to show you exactly how much you can save by adjusting your travel dates. They compare actual pricing for peak versus shoulder season travel, helping you make informed decisions about when to book your next adventure.

What You'll Learn:

• The true definition of peak season, off-season, and shoulder season travel
• Advantages and disadvantages of traveling during different times of year
• Real price comparisons for three popular vacation styles
• How the academic calendar drives pricing at family destinations
• Why hurricane season affects Caribbean and Alaska cruise pricing
• Tips for maximizing savings on cruises, European tours, and all-inclusive resorts

Featured Destination Comparisons:

1. Alaska Cruise - Celebrity Cruises 7-night Inside Passage (savings up to $1,300+ per couple)
2. Ireland Adventure - 8-9 night guided tour including Dublin, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and more (savings up to $2,000 per couple)
3. All-Inclusive Resort - Sandals Royal Bahamian with club-level perks (savings strategies and hurricane season considerations)

Ryan and Julie discuss important trade-offs to consider, including weather conditions, crowd levels, resort refurbishments, and availability of attractions and restaurants during off-peak times. They also share how flexibility with travel dates—especially for all-inclusive vacations—can significantly impact your bottom line.

Whether you're planning a cruise, international adventure, or beach getaway, this episode gives you the tools to balance your budget with your vacation priorities and find the perfect time to travel for your family.

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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"

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Join Ryan and Julie from Wonder and Beyond Travel for their milestone 300th episode as they break down the best cruises for every type of traveler. Whether you're a first-timer or seeking deep cultural immersion, this comprehensive guide will help you find your ideal cruise experience.

What You'll Discover:

Best Cruises for First-Time Cruisers: Looking for familiar destinations with clear daily routines and minimal stress? Perfect options include:

• River Cruising: Viking River Cruises (adults-only calm energy, straightforward inclusions) and AMA Waterways (small ships, intuitive layouts, guided touring included)
• Ocean Cruising: Celebrity Cruises (modern design, balanced activities), Princess Cruises (strong Alaska partnerships, clear experiences), and Royal Caribbean (variety of ships and activities)

Best Cruises for Immersive Exploration: For travelers who want destinations to take center stage with meaningful, unhurried experiences:

• Riviera Travel: Elegant European-style river cruising timed to special events (tulip season, Oktoberfest)
• Azamara Cruises: Longer port stays and overnight stops for true destination immersion, plus signature "AzAmazing Evenings"
• Lindblad Expeditions: Deep exploration to Alaska, Galapagos, and Antarctica with naturalists and experts onboard

Best Value Cruises: Understanding what's included and maximizing your return on investment:

• River Options: AMA Waterways and Viking (nearly all-inclusive experiences)
• Ocean Options: Royal Caribbean (wide variety for families and groups), Disney Cruise Line (premium service eliminates mental load for parents)
• Domestic: American Cruise Lines (U.S. rivers, nearly all-inclusive, drive-to embarkation)

Bonus Feature: Julie shares an exciting Ireland trip she planned around a Luke Combs concert at Slane Castle, including Guinness tours, Jameson Distillery, and unique experiences like a sheepdog demonstration at a thousand-year-old fort.

This episode celebrates finding the cruise style that matches your travel personality—not ranking cruise lines, but helping you discover where you belong on the water. Perfect for anyone considering their first cruise or looking to try a different cruise experience.

Episode 300 of All Things Travel, hosted by Ryan and Julie, your travel experts from Wonder and Beyond Travel

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!

Join Ryan and Julie from Wonder and Beyond Travel as they take you on a delicious journey around Epcot at Walt Disney World, sharing their top recommendations for snacks, meals, and drinks that will make your visit unforgettable.

What You'll Discover:

Table Service Highlights:

• Chefs de France - Traditional French cuisine with prefix options including French onion soup and beef bourguignon
• Le Cellier (Canada Pavilion) - Famous for signature poutine, Wagyu steak tartare, and sauce flights
• Katsura Grill (Japan) - Affordable, impressive sushi and rice bowls
• Space 220 - Unique galactic dining experience with theatrical food presentation
• Takumi-Tei - Seven-course chef's table experience for true foodies

Quick Service Favorites:

• Yorkshire County Fish Shop - The hosts' favorite spot in all of Walt Disney World for fish and chips, plus great fireworks viewing
• Regal Eagle Smokehouse - Authentic American BBQ with amazing sauces
• Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie - French pastries and sandwiches, open before World Showcase

Must-Try Drinks:

• Tipsy Ducks in Love at Joy of Tea (Ryan's favorite drink in all of Disney World!)
• Margaritas at Choza de Margarita
• La Cava del Tequila experiences

Festival Food Roundup: Complete guides to dining at all four Epcot festivals:

• Festival of the Arts (January-February) - Artistically presented dishes
• Flower and Garden Festival (Spring-Early Summer) - Fresh produce highlights
• Food and Wine Festival (Summer-Fall) - The original and most extensive
• Festival of the Holidays (November-December) - International holiday traditions

Whether you're planning your first Epcot visit or you're a seasoned Disney veteran, this episode is packed with insider tips to help you eat your way around the world. Perfect for foodies, families, and anyone looking to make the most of their Disney dining experience.

Featured Countries: France, Canada, Japan, China, Mexico, Morocco, Italy, Germany, UK, and more!

Hosted by Ryan and Julie, your travel experts from Wonder and Beyond Travel

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!

As we close out 2025, join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they reveal the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the year—as voted by YOU, our listeners! From solo travel adventures to European getaways, river cruises to budget-friendly tips, this year-end roundup showcases the destinations, advice, and inspiration that resonated most with travelers in 2025.

Top 10 Episodes of 2024:

1. Solo Travel: Top Tips, Destinations, and Why You Should Try It (March 12) - Our #1 episode! Discover why solo travel is gaining popularity and get expert tips for planning your first independent adventure.
2. Europe Travel Tips: Essential Guide for First-Time Visitors (July 9) - Everything first-time Europe travelers need to know, from packing to currency to staying connected.
3. Exploring the Danube River with AmaWaterways, Part 1 (April 23) - Ryan's river cruise experience that inspired countless listeners to consider this vacation style.
4. Shoulder Season Travel: Insider Tips for Budget-Friendly and Less Crowded Vacations (April 2) - Maximize your travel budget by discovering the best times to visit popular destinations.
5. How to Plan Your Travel Dreams: Mapping Out Trips for the Next Five Years and Beyond (January 15) - Perfect for this time of year! Learn how to strategically plan multiple dream vacations.
6. What NOT to Do on Your Cruise: Top Mistakes to Avoid (May 14) - Essential advice for first-time cruisers and veterans alike.
7. Alaska Adventures Await: Land, Sea, and Everything In Between (May 21) - Explore all the ways to experience Alaska, from cruise tours to land adventures.
8. Around the World Vacations: Three Incredible Global Travel Experiences (April 9) - Dream big with Adventures by Disney private jet, Uniworld river cruises, and Royal Caribbean world cruises.
9. Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Travel Gems in North America (August 6) - Discover lesser-known destinations perfect for road trips and weekend getaways.
10. Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas Review (August 13) - Ryan and Julie's families sail together on this brand-new ship, comparing multi-generational and adults-only experiences.

Whether you're planning your next adventure or just dreaming about future travels, this episode offers valuable insights into what fellow travelers are most interested in learning about.

Have episode suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us through our Facebook group "All Things Travel" or at WonderAndBeyondTravel.com.

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!

Planning a Disney World vacation during the holiday season? Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they dive deep into Julie's recent family trip to Walt Disney World in early December—a time she considers the absolute best for experiencing Disney's Christmas magic.

In this Christmas Eve episode, Julie shares insider tips from her week-long stay at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort with her husband, three young children (ages 2, 4, and 6), and in-laws. Discover why the first week of December offers the perfect sweet spot: full holiday decorations are up, but the Christmas week crowds haven't arrived yet.

What You'll Learn:

• Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: Detailed strategies for maximizing your experience, including when to arrive (spoiler: earlier than you think!), how to navigate the crowds, and whether the party is worth the cost
• Holiday Dining Recommendations: Reviews of Ohana (breakfast AND dinner!), Tusker House character dining, Via Napoli, Skipper Canteen, and the new Wai Lulu Bar & Grill at Polynesian's Island Tower
• Park Touring with Young Kids: Real talk about managing three little ones through four park days, including which rides were first-time experiences and how to build in essential downtime
• Resort Day Strategies: Why planning full resort days alongside park days makes your vacation more enjoyable and creates lasting memories
• Money-Saving Tips: How an Amazon Fresh order to your resort can save hundreds while keeping snacks and breakfast readily available
• Transportation Insights: What to expect when using Disney buses, especially to Disney Springs from Magic Kingdom area resorts

Julie offers honest feedback about the challenges of traveling with young children—even for Disney pros—and shares which holiday experiences are must-dos versus those you can skip. She also discusses whether the Christmas party is worth doing every year (her answer might surprise you!) and why the holiday season might not be ideal for your first Disney visit.

Whether you're planning your first Disney Christmas or you're a seasoned visitor, this episode provides practical advice for making the most of Walt Disney World's most magical time of year.

Featured Locations: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Disney Springs

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!

Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie on All Things Travel as Ryan shares an in-depth review of his honeymoon at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic. After Hurricane Melissa forced a last-minute change from Jamaica, Ryan and his wife Jasmine discovered this stunning adults-only all-inclusive resort turned out to be the perfect destination.

Planning & Arrival:

• Dominican Republic entry requirements including the e-ticket process
• Transfer experience with Amstar and 15-minute drive from Punta Cana airport
• First impressions of the modern, open-air resort with ocean views

Club Level Benefits:

• Exclusive breakfast and lunch restaurants with sit-down service
• Private club pool with enhanced amenities
• Personal concierge service (Larissa) for reservations and requests

Resort Experience:

• Swim-up room review and honeymoon amenities
• Daily cabana rental at the club pool - the ultimate pampering experience
• Beautiful beach conditions and water sports including sailing on a Hobie Cat
• Resort layout that "eats people up" so it never feels crowded

Dining:

• Traditional Dominican breakfast and diverse lunch options
• Restaurant reviews across both Zilara (adults-only) and Ziva (family) sides
• No reservations needed - first come, first served system

Activities & Entertainment:

• Daily schedule from breakfast through evening shows
• Fitness classes, aqua cycling, and water sports
• Afternoon tastings: cocktails, rum, coffee, and cigars
• Wine and painting, silent disco, and nightly theater performances
• Michael Jackson and Queen tribute shows, circus acts, and magic shows
• Why it felt like "adult all-inclusive camp" in the best way

Multi-Generational Travel:

• How the connected Zilara/Ziva properties work perfectly for families
• Easy access between adults-only and family sides
• Shared beach and pool spaces on the family side

Whether you're planning a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or multi-generational trip to the Dominican Republic, this episode provides honest insights into the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana experience, club level benefits, and tips for maximizing your all-inclusive vacation.

Keywords: Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Dominican Republic honeymoon, all-inclusive resort review, Punta Cana resorts, adults-only vacation, club level benefits, Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, Caribbean travel, honeymoon planning

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!

Ready to escape the winter blues? Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore the best cozy winter getaways that will warm your heart—whether you prefer snow-covered mountains or sun-soaked beaches!

In this episode, we're diving into destinations perfect for slowing down, relaxing, and creating magical winter memories. Ryan and Julie share their top picks for travelers who want that perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and relaxation during the colder months.

Snowy Mountain Retreats: Discover the charm of alpine escapes in Utah, Colorado, and Vermont. Julie highlights luxurious lodges like the Stein Erickson Lodge in Deer Valley and the iconic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park (yes, the inspiration for "The Shining"!). Even if you're not a skier, these destinations offer snowshoeing, sleigh rides, ice skating, and cozy après-ski vibes with fire pits and warm drinks. Ryan shares his Vermont memories, including maple tastings and exploring quintessential New England towns like Woodstock.

Caribbean Sunshine: Not a cold weather person? No problem! Ryan and Julie also cover warm and cozy getaways to places like Aruba, the Bahamas, and St. Lucia. From the dependable sunshine of Aruba to the pink sand beaches of the Bahamas, these destinations offer the perfect vitamin D boost when February feels never-ending.

Special Highlights:

• Julie reveals she's planning an Alaska cruise for July 2027—book early for the best prices!
• "Where in the World is Wonder and Beyond Travel?" features multiple families heading to Beaches Turks and Caicos
• Expert tips on choosing boutique accommodations and planning downtime
• Why cozy is more about pace than place

Whether you're dreaming of crackling fireplaces and hot chocolate or tropical drinks and turquoise waters, this episode has the perfect winter escape for you. Pack your fuzzy socks or your swimsuit—either way, you're in for a treat!

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!

Episode Description

Dreaming of a Hawaiian vacation but not sure where to start? In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie wrap up their three-budget series by exploring the islands in three completely different ways—proving that paradise is accessible no matter your budget.

What You'll Discover

Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they break down three distinct Hawaiian vacation experiences for a family of four, each offering unique adventures across the islands:

Budget-Friendly Oahu Adventure (Around $155/person/day) Experience the best of Waikiki without breaking the bank. Stay at the Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki with free breakfast, explore iconic sites like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor, and discover why Oahu offers the biggest bang for your buck. Learn how to maximize free and low-cost activities while still capturing that authentic Hawaiian spirit.

Moderate Two-Island Experience (Around $300/person/day) Ready to see more? This 8-10 day journey combines the energy of Oahu with the relaxation of Maui. From Pearl Harbor passport tours and catamaran snorkel cruises to the legendary Road to Hana and Molokini Crater, discover how to experience Hawaii's must-do activities while staying at quality resorts like the Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki and Sheraton Maui.

Luxury Multi-Island Escape (Under $700/person/day) Indulge in 10-12 days of pure Hawaiian luxury with stays at Four Seasons properties in Oahu, plus your choice of the Big Island or Maui. Enjoy private island tours, chartered catamarans, helicopter rides over dramatic sea cliffs, VIP luau experiences, and exclusive cultural programs. Learn why the Big Island's Volcanoes National Park is an absolute must-see.

Episode Highlights

• Why Oahu is perfect for budget-conscious travelers
• The best free and low-cost activities across the islands
• Smart strategies for keeping food costs manageable in Hawaii
• Private vs. group tour options: when to splurge
• Inter-island flight planning tips
• The ultimate Hawaii activity recommendation from experienced travel advisors

Whether you're planning your first Hawaiian getaway or returning for another taste of aloha, this episode delivers practical insights and real pricing to help you craft your perfect island adventure.

Bonus: Hear where Julie's heading next—a magical Disney Christmas trip with family and clients!

Ready to start planning your Hawaiian escape? The travel advisors at Wonder and Beyond Travel are here to help create your one-of-a-kind journey.

Support the show

Love the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/new

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!