Planning a trip with multiple generations of your family? Before you book, listen to this essential episode! Travel advisors Ryan and Julie share hard-won wisdom about the most common mistakes families make when planning multi-gen vacations—and how to avoid them.

From the planning phase through your actual trip, they cover everything: why you need to nail down dates BEFORE contacting your travel advisor, the importance of having a "team leader" for your group, and why trying to do everything together is a recipe for stress (spoiler: those Disney families of 20 walking in a line aren't having as much fun as you think).

Discover why cruises and all-inclusives work so well for multi-gen groups, how to handle different budgets within the same family, and the critical conversation about who's paying for what. Julie shares real stories from her own family trips and client experiences, while Ryan offers practical tips about room configurations, meeting points, and making sure everyone's expectations are aligned.

The hosts emphasize that while planning some group activities is important, the magic often happens in the unplanned moments—cousins running to each other in the Magic Kingdom, spontaneous trivia sessions on the cruise ship, or simply sharing a meal together. They also tackle the delicate balance of ensuring the person treating the family doesn't have their preferences overlooked.

Whether you're planning a cruise, Disney vacation, or all-inclusive getaway with grandparents, siblings, and kids in tow, this episode will help you create a memorable trip that brings your family closer together—without the drama.

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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!

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Alaska cruising is unlike any other cruise experience—and the shore excursions truly make the trip. In this exciting episode, travel advisors Ryan and Julie guide you through their favorite excursions at Alaska's most popular ports, sharing the experiences that will create lifetime memories.

Start in Juneau with the ultimate triple-threat: whale watching, visiting the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, and enjoying wild Alaskan salmon grilled over a wood fire—all in one incredible day. Then explore Ketchikan's rainforest with a naturalist guide before marveling at the towering totem poles at Totem Bight State Park.

Ryan shares his absolute favorite Alaska excursion: the legendary White Pass Summit Rail in Skagway. This is THE train everyone talks about, offering a scenic journey through history and breathtaking landscapes, with a bus ride back so you see completely different views. Julie's dad insisted on this experience above all others, and for good reason.

But Alaska's surprises don't stop there. Would you ever think to go snorkeling in Alaska? At Sitka's Magic Island, you can spot colorful rockfish, sea stars, and even giant Pacific octopi in crystal-clear waters—then warm up with hot chocolate afterward. For fishing enthusiasts, Icy Straight Point offers stream fishing expeditions where you can learn fly fishing techniques while angling for trout and salmon.

The episode wraps up in Victoria, Canada (a required stop for maritime law reasons) with a cultural and culinary tour through Chinatown, featuring local breweries and the famous Nanaimo Bar dessert.

Ryan and Julie emphasize how Alaska excursions differ from Caribbean or Mediterranean options—here, the natural beauty and unique experiences are the main attraction, making careful excursion selection crucial to your cruise satisfaction.

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!
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That cruise for under $100 a day? That week in Cancun for $500? They're real—but they're not the whole story. In this eye-opening episode, travel advisors Ryan and Julie pull back the curtain on the "hidden" costs of travel that can turn your dream vacation budget into a financial surprise.

The hosts emphasize they're not talking about scams—these are legitimate expenses that travelers simply forget to factor in. From ground transportation (how ARE you getting from the airport to your resort?) to travel insurance (especially crucial after hurricanes like the one that just devastated Jamaica), parking fees that can double your hotel costs in major cities, and those resort fees you don't see until checkout—it all adds up.

Julie shares how checked baggage fees, seat selection charges, and clothing purchases for specific climates (hello, Antarctica coats!) can quietly inflate your budget. The episode includes Ryan's real-time experience rebooking his honeymoon from Jamaica to the Dominican Republic due to hurricane damage, demonstrating how travel insurance and working with an advisor can save the day.

Beyond logistics, they dive into experience costs: drink packages, specialty dining, shore excursions (which can cost as much as the cruise itself), WiFi on ships, and international cell coverage. Julie confesses her weakness for Disney merchandise, while Ryan offers his son's wisdom: "Does it look cool at home, or just here?"

The truly forgotten costs? Pre and post-travel food, laundry services on longer trips, visa fees, passport renewals, overweight luggage charges, and Ryan's pet peeve—constantly buying bottled water. Julie's tip: bring your own water bottle (just don't fill it before the plane pressurizes!).

This episode arms you with a comprehensive checklist so you can budget accurately from the start and avoid that sinking feeling when unexpected charges appear.

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!

Dreaming of Italy but worried about the cost? Travel advisors Ryan and Julie break down how a family of four can experience the magic of Italy at three different price points—from budget-conscious to moderate to luxury—proving that your dream Italian vacation is more accessible than you think.

Episode Highlights

Budget-Conscious Italy ($350/person/night) Discover how to experience Rome and Florence over 7 nights without sacrificing the essentials. Learn why traveling during shoulder season (September-April, excluding peak summer), using trains and metro systems, and booking shared tours can dramatically reduce costs while still hitting major attractions like the Vatican, Coliseum, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Plus, find out why staying in hotels might actually save you money compared to Airbnbs in Italy.

Moderate Italy ($525/person/night) Take your Italian adventure up a notch with a 10-night journey through Rome, Florence, and Sorrento. This itinerary adds exciting family-friendly experiences like a "Gladiator for a Day" program, pizza and gelato making classes, a stop at Pompeii, and a boat tour of Capri—all while keeping the trip surprisingly affordable through smart planning and high-end train tickets booked in advance.

Luxury Italy ($820/person/night) Experience Italy like never before with complete flexibility in your travel dates, private tours customized to your family's interests, and two weeks exploring six incredible destinations: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Florence, Milan, and Venice. From cooking lessons at local markets to wine tastings in Tuscan farmhouses, gondola rides in Venice to tours of Lake Como, this is the ultimate Italian experience.

Whether you're planning your first trip to Italy or returning for another adventure, this episode will open your eyes to the possibilities within your budget. Ryan and Julie also share valuable insider tips on transportation, tour options, and why certain choices make financial sense.

Coming Soon: The hosts tease future episodes featuring Japan and Hawaii using this same three-tier approach!

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 tackle the ultimate Disney adventure? Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they break down everything you need to know about the Disney Four Park Challenge - visiting all four Walt Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) in a single day.

Four Park Challenge Basics:

• Standard rules: Visit each park, ride one attraction, enjoy a snack, and take a photo
• Advanced options: Add character meet-and-greets or shows for an extra challenge
• Why this challenge is best for experienced Disney visitors, not first-timers

Critical Planning Factors:

• Transportation strategies between parks (bus, monorail, Skyliner, boat, or rideshare)
• Managing wait times and choosing efficient attractions
• Utilizing early park entry and understanding park hours
• Deciding whether to purchase Lightning Lane passes
• Avoiding rides with long pre-shows or frequent breakdowns

Ryan's Four Park Strategy: Starting at Magic Kingdom (Port Orleans French Quarter resort), he hits Peter Pan's Flight, grabs breakfast at Friar's Nook, then monorails to EPCOT for Finding Nemo and a French bakery treat. Next, he boats to Hollywood Studios for Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular and a Ronto Wrap, takes the Skyliner to Riviera Resort for a coffee break, then rideshares to Animal Kingdom for Kilimanjaro Safari and celebration drinks at Nomad Lounge.

Julie's Family-Friendly Approach: Starting from a Magic Kingdom resort (Polynesian), she begins at Animal Kingdom earliest opening with Navi River Journey, takes in the Winged Encounters show, buses to Hollywood Studios for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway and an Olaf meet-and-greet, Skyliners to EPCOT for lunch and character photos, then monorails to Magic Kingdom for It's a Small World, parade viewing, and finishes with the unique Kernel Kitchen popcorn sundae.

Pro Tips:

• Budget approximately 8 hours for the complete challenge
• Stay at resorts with convenient transportation options
• Use mobile ordering to save time
• Choose attractions near park entrances for efficiency
• Consider ending at the park with latest closing time
• Factor in special events that may affect park hours

Next Episode Preview: Top Alaska Cruise Shore Excursions

Wonder and Beyond Travel specializes in creating magical Disney vacations and stress-free travel experiences.

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"

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Planning a European cruise and overwhelmed by shore excursion choices? Travel advisors Ryan and Julie break down the must-do tours and activities at Europe's most popular cruise ports. From Norwegian fjords to Greek islands, discover how to maximize your limited time in each destination and choose experiences that match your travel style.

Northern Europe Ports:

• Edinburgh, Scotland - Royal Mile walking tour with National Gallery visit featuring Da Vinci and Rembrandt
• Lisbon, Portugal - Historic neighborhood exploration including 10th-century cathedral and cobblestone cafes
• Oslo, Norway - Traditional wooden boat fjord cruise with Akershus Fortress visit (dating to 1299)
• Amsterdam, Netherlands - GPS-guided tour to Volendam and Marken windmills with Dutch cheese-making demonstration
• Copenhagen, Denmark - Segway waterfront tour past Gefion Fountain and Royal Opera House with Danish pastry tasting

Mediterranean & Central Europe Ports:

• Barcelona, Spain - Montserrat Monastery combined with Sagrada Familia and Park Güell tour
• Athens, Greece - Acropolis visit with Temple of Zeus, Tomb of Unknown Soldier, and Plaka free time
• Naples, Italy - Amalfi Coast day trip to Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy - Full-day Rome tour including Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain
• Dubrovnik, Croatia - Old Town walking tour with panoramic views and Game of Thrones filming locations
• Mykonos, Greece - Coastal panoramas, Oia village, windmills, and Little Venice exploration

Expert Tips

Learn why European cruise ports make perfect "sampler trips" for planning future extended vacations. Discover which ports require longer transit times and how to balance guided tours with free exploration time. Plus, hear why some excursions work better for families versus couples.

Perfect for first-time European cruisers and seasoned travelers looking to optimize their port days on Northern Europe or Mediterranean itineraries.

Next Episode: Walt Disney World's Four Park Challenge

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!
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Planning a Caribbean cruise but unsure what to do at each port? Travel advisors Ryan and Julie share their expert recommendations for the best shore excursions across Western and Eastern Caribbean destinations. From submarine adventures to swimming with sea turtles, discover unique experiences that will make your cruise unforgettable.

Western Caribbean Highlights:

• Cozumel, Mexico - Atlantis Submarine Adventure exploring coral reefs 100 feet underwater
• Nassau, Bahamas - Walking tour combined with Atlantis Resort day pass
• Costa Rica (Calera) - Zip line canopy tour with river cruise and wildlife viewing
• Costa Maya, Mexico - Ancient Mayan ruins tour at Chacchoben with kayaking
• Jamaica - Dunn's River Falls climb and lazy river tubing adventure
• Grand Cayman - Stingray City encounter with barrier reef snorkeling

Eastern Caribbean Must-Dos:

• Dominican Republic (Amber Cove) - Seven waterfalls adventure with zip lining
• San Juan, Puerto Rico - Historic Old San Juan walking tour
• Tortola - The Baths at Virgin Gorda with natural boulder formations
• St. Martin - Island sightseeing with Orient Bay beach time
• Aruba - Antilla shipwreck snorkeling from catamaran
• St. Lucia - Pitons sailing tour with Diamond Falls visit
• St. Thomas - Snorkeling with giant green sea turtles
• Barbados - Beach day with turtle swim and six shipwreck exploration

Key Takeaways

Learn how to balance adventure activities with cultural experiences and relaxation. Discover why small group tours offer better wildlife viewing opportunities and which excursions include meals and drinks. Get insider tips on what to wear (closed-toe shoes!) and how cruise line excursions compare across different ports.

Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers planning Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise itineraries.

Next Episode: Top European Shore Excursions

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!

Travel advisors Ryan and Julie explore Kensington Tours' Personal Heritage Journey programs - unique travel experiences that trace your family ancestry through customized, private guided tours. Learn how to turn genealogical research into meaningful travel adventures that connect you with your personal history.

What Are Heritage Journey Programs?

• Fully customized ancestry-based travel experiences designed around your specific family history
• Partnership between Kensington Tours and Ancestry.com for in-depth genealogical research
• Private guided explorations with local experts and destination specialists
• Ongoing flexibility to adjust itineraries based on discoveries during your journey

Featured Heritage Itineraries

New York City Immigration Heritage Trip (7 Days)

• Trace immigrant ancestors through NYC neighborhoods
• Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty visits with genealogical context
• Brooklyn culinary tours and cultural neighborhood explorations
• Private ancestry genealogist consultations
• National Archives research opportunities

Northern Italy Heritage Journey (11 Days)

• Perfect blend of traditional Italian landmarks and personalized ancestry sites
• Rome, Florence, and Milan with customized village visits
• Medieval town explorations in Tuscany
• Lake Maggiore region discovery
• Upgrade options for detailed family tree research

Real Heritage Journey Success Stories

• European gentleman reunited with childhood friend in Africa through Kensington's research
• Surprise ancestral village visits during Sicily tours
• Multi-generational family bonding through shared heritage exploration

Planning Your Heritage Journey

• Best for: Couples, retirees, and multi-generational families
• Customization: Every itinerary tailored to your specific ancestry
• Research depth: Basic to comprehensive genealogical packages available
• Travel style: Luxury accommodations with authentic cultural immersion

Expert Travel Tips

• Heritage journeys work best without young children for deeper cultural engagement
• Consider as retirement celebration or milestone anniversary trips
• Start with regional heritage research before international travel
• Combine traditional sightseeing with personal family discovery

Keywords: heritage travel, ancestry tours, genealogy trips, Kensington Tours, family history travel, Italy ancestry tours, NYC immigration history, personalized travel expe

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!