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All Things Travel Podcast

All Things Travel Podcast

By: Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer
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About this listen

Listen in each week with Wonder and Beyond Travel Co-Owners and destination experts Ryan and Julie.

He is your travel professor, teaching you everything you need to know to have a magical vacation. She is a Disney-loving, Maryland mom of 3 and a specialist in family travel.

Whether they're discussing incredible destinations, top vacation tips, or sharing personal stories…it’s always All Things Travel.

© 2026 All Things Travel Podcast
Economics Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • The National Parks Trip Everyone Should Take at Least Once
    Apr 29 2026

    If you’ve ever dreamed about the ultimate American road trip, this might be it.

    In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie break down an unforgettable journey through the Grand Circle—a scenic loop through the American Southwest that brings together some of the most iconic landscapes in the United States. Think towering red rock canyons, winding scenic highways, and not one… but 10 national parks in a single trip.

    Starting in Las Vegas, this two-week itinerary takes you through breathtaking stops like Zion and Bryce Canyon, the hidden gem of Capitol Reef, and the adventure hub of Moab—home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. From there, you’ll experience the iconic beauty of Monument Valley, the surreal landscapes of Page, Arizona (including Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon), and finish with the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.

    But this isn’t just about where to go—it’s about how to experience it.

    Ryan and Julie share:

    • A realistic 2-week route (with flexibility to customize)
    • What each stop is known for—and why it’s worth your time
    • Practical tips for planning a road trip like this (timing, lodging, park passes, and more)
    • How to balance must-see highlights with spontaneous moments along the way

    Whether you’re a couple looking for your next big adventure, a family planning a memory-making trip, or someone who’s always had the National Parks on your list—this episode will help you turn that idea into a plan.

    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!
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • Overwhelmed After Booking? Here's Your Travel Planning Timeline for Every Type of Vacation
    Apr 22 2026


    You booked your vacation — now what? In this episode of All Things Travel, travel advisors Ryan and Julie of Wonder and Beyond Travel walk you through a complete planning countdown for three of the most popular vacation types: cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and European trips.

    Whether you're a first-time international traveler or a seasoned explorer, this episode breaks down exactly what to do — and when to do it — so nothing falls through the cracks before departure.

    In this episode you'll learn:

    • When to apply for or renew your passport (and the critical 6-month expiration rule)
    • How to decide when to book flights — and why waiting for lower prices can backfire
    • The best time to book shore excursions, dining reservations, and specialty experiences
    • Why travel insurance timing matters more than most people realize
    • Cruise-specific tips: pre/post cruise hotels, online check-in windows, onboard WiFi, and cell service abroad
    • How to use the STEP Program (Smart Traveler Enrollment) and the free MPC App (Mobile Passport Control) to travel smarter and safer
    • A week-of checklist: apps to download, documents to copy, and bank alerts to set

    Plus, Ryan shares highlights from his first road trip with his dog to Hilton Head Island and Savannah, Georgia, and Julie spotlights a client heading to Walt Disney World's Polynesian Village Resort during one of the best times of year to visit.

    🌍 Ready to start planning? Visit WonderandBeyondTravel.com

    Next episode: US National Parks Road Trips

    All Things Travel is hosted by Ryan and Julie, co-owners of Wonder and Beyond Travel, specializing in family travel, Disney vacations, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and international 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!
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • The Disney Arrival Day Survival Guide (And How to Leave Without the Tears)
    Apr 15 2026

    Walt Disney World Arrival & Departure Day Tips | All Things Travel

    Arriving and leaving Walt Disney World can be the most stressful parts of your vacation — but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, travel advisors Ryan and Julie of Wonder and Beyond Travel break down exactly how to plan your Disney arrival and departure days so you can skip the chaos and soak up the magic.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    • Why booking a flight before noon (ideally 8–9 AM) sets your whole trip up for success
    • The truth about TSA PreCheck — when it's essential vs. when it's overkill (hint: Orlando International is a different beast)
    • Orlando airport navigation tips, including the terminal monorail transfer
    • How to choose between private transfers, Minnie Van, Mears Connect, Uber/Lyft — and the car seat rule parents can't afford to miss
    • The mobile order hack that means your first meal is ready the moment you arrive at your resort
    • How to use Bell Services, resort check-in, and Magic Band setup to reduce friction
    • Whether to use Disney's free waterpark perk — and the split-stay trick that maximizes it
    • How dining plan credits work on arrival day (spoiler: they start immediately)
    • Why departure day calls for an afternoon flight, a character breakfast, and possibly a final pool session
    • Should you go to a park on arrival or departure day? The honest answer — and the specific situations when it actually works

    Plus, Julie shares an unforgettable group booking at Beaches Turks & Caicos for a multigenerational family of 17, including butler service, private-pool townhouses, and why this trip is already a dream in the making.

    Wonder and Beyond Travel specializes in Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, cruises, all-inclusive, and international travel. Connect with Ryan and Julie 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!
    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
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