Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer

All Things Travel Podcast

Society EN ↓ 325 episodes

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.  

Author

Ryan Hedstrom and Julie Shaffer

Category

Society

Latest episode

Jul 8, 2026

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Episodes

Best of Cruising - Find Your Perfect Cruise Match 14.01.2026

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 clea...

The Ultimate Epcot Food Guide 07.01.2026

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...

Top 10 Episodes of 2025: YOUR Favorite Travel Topics of the Year 31.12.2025

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: Solo Travel: To...

Christmas at Disney: The Good, The Crowded & The Magical 24.12.2025

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...

Ryan's Dominican Republic Honeymoon Experience 17.12.2025

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...

Cozy Winter Getaways: From Snowy Cabins to Sunny Beaches 10.12.2025

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 p...

Hawaii on Three Budgets: Your Complete Island Planning Guide 03.12.2025

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 va...

Planning Your Dream Japan Trip on Any Budget 26.11.2025

Ever thought Japan was out of reach for your family? Think again! In this episode of All Things Travel, hosts Ryan and Julie break down how to experience the magic of Japan across three different budget levels—and the prices might surprise you. Whether you're a budget-conscious traveler or ready to splurge on luxury experiences, this episode shows you exactly how to make Japan happen for a fa...

Multi-Generational Travel: What NOT to Do! 19.11.2025

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 a...

The Best of the Last Frontier: Top Picks for Alaskan Shore Excursions! 12.11.2025

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 Glac...

The Hidden Costs of Travel: Budget for the Whole Trip! 05.11.2025

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 t...

Exploring Italy on Any Budget 29.10.2025

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 Florenc...

Four Park Challenge: Expert Tips for Conquering All Four Walt Disney World Parks in One Day 22.10.2025

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 tak...

Top European Cruise Shore Excursions: Northern Europe & Mediterranean 15.10.2025

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 Mil...

Top Caribbean Shore Excursions for Your Next Cruise 08.10.2025

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 Submar...

Discover Your Roots with Heritage Journey Programs 01.10.2025

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 experie...

Disney Springs Quick Service Food Crawl 24.09.2025

Episode Overview Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they take you on an epic Disney Springs quick service food crawl! Discover the best no-reservation dining options at Walt Disney World's premier shopping and dining district. From Spanish tapas to Asian street food, this episode is your guide to maximizing your Disney Springs dining experience. What You'll Learn Best Disney Springs...

BTS: The Life of a Travel Advisor 17.09.2025

Episode Overview Travel advisors Ryan and Julie pull back the curtain on their daily work, revealing the extensive behind-the-scenes effort that goes into creating seamless travel experiences. From initial trip planning to post-travel follow-up, discover why working with a professional travel advisor is invaluable in today's complex travel landscape. Key Topics Covered Client-Facing Services...

Disney Cruise Lines vs Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines: Which is Better for Families? 10.09.2025

Travel experts Julie and Ryan compare Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean's family offerings after experiencing both cruise lines with their families. This comprehensive head-to-head analysis covers everything parents need to know when choosing between these popular family cruise options. Entertainment Comparison Royal Caribbean : More adult-only options, ice shows, water shows, Broadway p...

Off the Beaten Path Caribbean Destinations 03.09.2025

Discover five stunning Caribbean destinations beyond the typical Jamaica and Bahamas vacation spots. Travel advisors Ryan and Julie explore hidden gems that offer authentic experiences, fewer crowds, and incredible natural beauty in this final episode of their Off the Beaten Path series. Featured Caribbean Destinations 1. Grenada - The Spice Island Known for nutmeg, cinnamon, and cocoa production...

Walt Disney World in Summer: Essential Heat Survival Tips 27.08.2025

Travel experts Ryan and Julie share hard-earned lessons from their recent Walt Disney World summer trip, revealing practical strategies for beating Florida's intense heat while maximizing park time. Fresh off their Utopia of the Seas cruise, both hosts experienced Disney's summer challenges firsthand and provide actionable advice for families planning summer visits. Key Topics Covered He...

Europe's Hidden Gems - 4 "Second Cities" Worth Visiting 20.08.2025

Discover Europe's best-kept secrets! Travel advisors Ryan and Julie explore four incredible European "second cities" that offer authentic experiences, fewer crowds, and better value than popular tourist destinations. Learn why these underrated gems should be on your travel bucket list. Featured Destinations Split, Croatia 🇭🇷 Why Visit: Ancient Roman history meets Adriatic charm Must...

Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas Review 13.08.2025

Travel advisors Ryan and Julie share their honest first impressions of Royal Caribbean's newest mega-ship, Utopia of the Seas. Fresh off their 3-night Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, they dive into everything from boarding chaos to Perfect Day at CocoCay bliss. Despite sailing together, their vastly different experiences prove this ship truly offers something for everyone - from familie...

Off the Beaten Path - Hidden Travel Gems in North America 06.08.2025

Travel advisors Ryan and Julie kick off an exciting new series highlighting lesser-known destinations that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list. This episode focuses on hidden gems across North America - from charming small towns to pristine beaches that offer unique experiences away from crowded tourist hotspots. Featured Destinations Asheboro, North Carolina Location: 30 minutes south of Gr...

St. Lucia Adults-Only Paradise at Sandals Grand St. Lucian 30.07.2025

Travel advisors Julie and Ryan welcome Julie's husband Steven to discuss their incredible 5-night couples getaway to St. Lucia's Sandals Grand St. Lucian Resort . After seven years without an adults-only vacation, this Eastern Caribbean adventure offered the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury service. Getting There: Unique helicopter transfer from airport to resort (first...

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