Your Bucket List Buster

Your Bucket List Buster for Everyone Inclusive Travel Don’t let the fact that someone in your family has special needs like Autism, Down syndrome, Epilepsy or is in a wheel chair keep you from traveling. Theme parks are a big part of fun as a child and adult. Some theme parks are making it their business to keep special needs families in mind. Join us as we talk with Margalit Francus of Autistic Globetrotting as she provides tips on top theme parks that are inclusive for our families with special needs family members.  Margalit has two sons both with Epilepsy and one with Autism.  She’s become an expert in finding travel components that are special needs friendly. Karen and Margalit discuss Disney and Morgan's Wonderland in San Antonio, Texas.  Margalit shares lots of tips to making it possible for all families to check off their bucket list within the US and even internationally.  Share this episode with all the families you know that want to travel the world.. Karen is inspired to do a monthly episode o

Alaska, One of America’s Greatest Natural Wonders Join Karen Duncan host of Your Bucket List Buster and Sasha McGinn from Alaska Railroad as we discover the interior of Alaska by rail. Learn about the fun things to do in Alaska, things you wouldn't expect like visiting breweries, botanical gardens,and visiting museums and cultural centers.  There are tons of fun activities for multi-generational family groups.  Everyone has gets to be delighted with this beautiful 49th state. Did you know that Alaska cruising took over the top spot from Las Vegas as the #1 US tourist destination?  You won't want to miss this episode of traveling America. Your Bucket List Buster Karen Duncan

Live from Lake Austin Spa Resort with Janis Clapoff-Health and Wellness Travel Host Karen Duncan goes live from Lake Austin Spa Resort right in her backyard, one of the top health and wellness spa's in the world.  Lake Austin Spa Resort has ranked in the top 10 with Travel and Leisure, Condes Naste for the last 10 years.  Janis Clapoff the new Managing Director describes her journey to Austin from Canada and why she has chosen this resort to continue her successful career in the hospitality industry. Karen also provides you with some tips on being less stressful during this high travel season at the airport and the pros and cons of SIM cards for your phone on Telecom Thursday Tips. Looking for a Health and Wellness destination and package, Karen provides you with several great options for reconnecting to your inner-self, nature, and voluntourism with Perillo Tours focused on Health and Wellness, Bali, India, Costa Rica, Greece. And if adrenaline and rest is your focus then Susie Ellis identifies some of t

Where Have You Been- Living Your Bucket List Dreams with Gerry Rieger You've worked hard and now you get to do what you want when you want, are you ready for that?  Have you thought about what that would look like?, Where would you go?  Well some of us will get to retire early or on time, and some of us won't ever stop working..The question is are you ready to start living your bucket list travel dreams. Host Karen Duncan talks with Gerry Rieger a retired business owner that has spent the last three years living his travel bucket list dreams and he's not slowing down. Gerry explains how even going to visit his granddaughter Charli in LA he and his wife Linda make it an adventure and do things they've never done. Learn how more people are interested in being more physically and emotionally immersed in a trip that helps with their mental and physical health while vacationing, and how more people are starting with finding things in or near the water to do to be more physically active.  Karen provides tips fo

European River Cruising with Scenic Waterways and Emerald Cruise Lines Castles, Cathedrals, Vineyards, Markets and more when you travel the rivers of Europe you are up close and personal in the villages and historical cities you've only read about.  Optional daily tours take you through the heart of the cities and in some cases you spend the night.. Going through the locks, taking a bike ride through town, enjoying wonderful cafe's join host Karen Duncan as she describes some of the most popular river cruises in Europe.  With the help of Carolyn Szekeres of Scenic Waters and Emerald Cruise Lines two of the premier river cruise companies in theh world. Scenic and Emerald are the all inclusive experience on small intimate ships with the newest technology, spacious suites, and culinary experiences you'll savor even when you're back home. Karen, also describes the most popular rivers to cruise in Europe with what to do, how to get there, and in the Nutshell information to make your choices easier. Themed Rive

Sport Your Bucket List with Customized Sports Tours at Major Sporting Events For some you haven't lived until you can go to that one major sporting event featuring your favorite team. Or are you an adrenaline junky? Have you ever thought about heli skiing or wing walking, you thought skydiving was something..Well this weeks show will surely get your juices flowing if sports and travel are your thing. Host Karen Duncan has a conversation with Vice President of Sales for Roadtrips the tour company that customizes tours for premium sporting events around the world.  The Grand Prix in Monaco, World Cup in Russia, olympics, super bowl, the Masters it goes on and on..You'll learn how Duane Penner was able to combine his love for sports and travel into a great career with Roadtrips. Karen also wants you to guess on which destinations around the world are considered the best sports destinations..What is your guess? And you think you know extreme sports after listening to this weeks show you'll learn you may have

In the first episode of Where Have I Been a new segment of Your Bucket List Buster we meet Dawn McDaniel, owner of McDaniel Wine Shop at Home in Austin Texas. Dawn just recently got back from a 2 week long trip to Italy where she hiked, and drank wine.  Join us as she describes her adventure and how this was a lifelong dream she made come to life!  In travel news: Ponant a luxury expedition cruise line describes it's:first-of-their-kind underwater lounges that are being designed for its next four luxury expedition ships. Host Karen Duncan provides 5 places to go for solo travelers rated for safety and happiness Insight Cuba has created a tour that features the music of Cuba for music lovers And a shout out to AWADAE Adventures with Autism, Down Syndrome, and Epilepsy an organization that provides vacations for families with special needs,  FT Collins and Lindsey Pride who did a fantastic job with her first ever fundraiser on behalf of families with special needs.. Subscribe to Your Bucket List Buster s

YOUR BUCKET LIST BUSTER   Join host Karen Duncan as she discusses the different types of tours available with Celtic Tours with regional sales manager Jeff Densk. Karen and Jeff talk abou the different types of tours you can take with Celtic from Escorted, guided, self drive to privately chauffeured all around Europe.  They discuss some of the top trending tours like the Whiskey tour in Scotland and going to Ireland for the St Patricks day festivities.   Do you know what Munro Bagging is?   Learn abou this activity and some really fun things to do in Scotland the destination of the week. And Pandora is finally at Animal Kingdom in Orlando, Florida create your own Avatar and fly throuh the sky mountains. 1st Annual Your Bucket List Buster-South Beach, Miami, Cuba and Bahamas Aug 26-Sept 1 Facebook, Instagram-yourbucketlistbuster yourbucketlistbuster@gmail.com

Stepping Outside Your Vacation Box Host Karen Duncan is bringing new ideas to the table for your next travel adventure..Starting with Victor Hotels a boutique hotel company based in Miami, Florida.  Karen talks to Director of Sales Rey Ramirez and Derek Dessero the Group Sales Manager. This hotel company owns some of the best iconic art deco hotels right in the heart of the action on South Beach and the amazing Versace Mansion which only has 10 suites. Victor Hotel group customizes request for their group guest from the normal of a fun happy hour event to bringing in mermaids and tigers for an exotic group gathering. Karen also describes 5 top private island getaways that are available and mostly affordable for anyone to take advantage of for that special time together. This proves you don't have to be a superstar or celebrity to vacation like one. Find out updates on Karen and her husband's adventure back home..And what's happening with Cuba?  Are American's being priced out of the this relatively new de

Live From the Road to the Bahamas Host Karen Duncan, Your Bucket List Buster takes to the road on a road trip with her husband Mitchell from Texas to Florida and then a flight over to the Bahamas. Join her as she documents her road trip through Louisiana, Alabama, and into the state of Florida.  She talks about her experience at the visitor centers, eating seafood at a great family owned restaurant,  and going off the path to meet up with some friends at a Marriott Legends a condo community in Panama City Beach, Florida.  This is part of Karen's bucket list to drive across the country to see the states on the ground. Then Karen heads to the Bahamas and takes you into the fun of two of the Bahamas popular all inclusive resorts, Super Clubs Breezes and Sandals Royal Bahamaian.   Karen describes the difference in the two properties and the importance of pairing the right hotel for the right client.  She walks you through activities, food, and room options.  Karen even has a live interview with a couple she m

Safari and Beyond, Experience South Africa   South Africa finds itself in the top 5 of most people’s bucket list.  This episode we have the pleasure of speaking with President of South African Tourism USA, Ms. Bangu Masisi. Ms Masisi will pump us up about travels to South Africa with her description of visiting the Big 5, the diversity of activities and sites to do and see, the people and the climate.  You’ll be surprised at what you may find in South Africa when it comes to culinary experiences.  You don’t want to miss this show! What's to do in South Africa other than Safari 1. Visit and Learn the history of Shabeens- The Shebeen Pub & Braai is a Charlottesville restaurant with a menu featuring South African cuisine 2. Visit the up and coming South African Wine Country 3. Visit a local home that has now become an art gallery 4. Take in one of the now famous jazz festivals 5. Go Cycling 6. Or go bungy jumping There is something in South Africa for everyone.  Did you know the food trucks have be

  When You Finally Achieve Your Bucket List Dream-Dubai For those of us who have a bucket list, what does it feel like when you finally get to go on that trip of a lifetime?  Do you feel you have done it all or do you move to the next item on the list?  If that was the last one are you done or do you add another.  This week’s episode we will hear from three guest that just got back from Dubai, we learn about their experience, the things they did, ate, and misunderstandings of the culture.  And how wonderfully pleased they were about the experience.  Now they are set on another exotic destination. June Mason, her Boyfriend Dexter and her Sister Paulette Learn How To Get the Most Out of Duty-Free Shopping in the Caribbean-Tips and tricks to getting the best bang for your buck. Plus we’ll have one of our own eWomen Network members Grace Lanni, talk about her latest experience to the Dominican Republic and being the managing director of Austin’s eWomen chapter. Links: https://www.visitdubai.com @dubaitouri

St Lucia , See, Taste, Feel St Lucia Thought of the week- The excitement of getting ready for a trip is one of the best feelings in the world to me.  When I go on vacation it’s usually at a time that I really need it. I’ve been in the trenches since the end of January and I’m always preaching to you guys to disconnect to reconnect and I so desperately feel the need right now.  So as I start thinking about our upcoming trip I start to look at the things that need doing. Host Karen Duncan Your Bucket List Buster is feeling the need to take a break in the heat of travel season.  As you prepare for summer vacation there are things you need to make sure you get done before you leave.  Karen discusses your To Do List before leaving. Do you know what you need to pack or how to prepare to your personal space when leaving on vacation?  Your Bucket List Buster provides all the tips for this year's summer vacation. Join, Your Bucket List Buster on Instagram Live at 7pm Central Time to learn more about St Lucia and t

What's Your Favorite Childhood Travel Adventure? If you have a family member with special needs, or they are elderly, or has had a temporary setback due to a temporary injury the family vacation does not have to be postponed or cancelled.  Andrew Garnett president of Special Needs Group an organization that provides medical and accessible equipment around the globe discusses how he created this business that makes travel accessible to almost 100% of the population. Also, on this episode Karen discusses Your Favorite Childhood Travel adventure and the best time to purchase airline tickets, cruise ship show productions stepping up their game, and other travel trends for the week. Want to raise global and open minded children, treat vacation as a learning experience, include them in the planning and decision making and then teach them how to be global citizens by example. Host Karen Duncan also provides some highlights from the best 32 travel things to do with special needs.  She also provides a little tease

Host Karen Duncan talks about her new inspiration of cycling throughout the world inspired by guest speaker Russ Hoefer of Bike Tour Finders. Karen and Russ discuss the types of tours available such as brewery tours, wine tours, foodie tours, organized tours and the granddaddy of them all the Grann Fondos that's multi-day and destinations. Karen and Russ even discuss the different levels of tours and types of bikes to do them. Then Karen is joined by Dave Deen of Too Many Adapters to have a discussion of which apps all international travelers should have on their devices in case of emergency. Did you know there is an app for people with food allergies that can help them stay healthy in a country where they don't speak the language? AllergyFT is just one of the invaluable apps available.  Others include Tripit that can house your entire itinerary so that you get notified of flight changes, cancellations, gate changes, tour times, and hotel confirmations. You'll never be without your trip details.  And Dropbox

Join Your Bucket List Buster this week for some exciting and fun details about the destination of the week, the Bahama Islands from  PJ Douglas Sands  Senior Manager Bahamas Tourist Office - Houston Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Learn about the different islands, their personalities, and the activities they are known for to fit your bucket list. The Bahamas are so close the the coast of the US and you can get there without having a passport.  Loads of activities are available for those that have never traveled internationally and those that just need a quick getaway.  If golfing is your thing how about golfing at the Norman golf course at Sandals at Emerald Bay on the island of Exuma, an out island of the Bahamas. Are you looking for peaceful, luxury, and wellness in one spot?  Find out about La Luna the creation of Bernardo Bertucci, the marketing master mind of Prada and Giorgio Armani.  Can you imagine the simple elegance of this resort with a million dollar view from the yoga pavillion.  Included at t

Your Bucket List Buster will take you to New York this episode, it's the destination of the week.  Enjoy New York in the spring with lots of activities, tours, and culinary adventures. Learn about the different boroughs of New York and which ones have the activities of your choice, broadway shows, Yankee's games, Central park fun, , the zoo, etc.  And food all over.  New York is a bucket list destination. Have you ever tried to book your travel yourself, or trusted someone that was not a travel professional and things just didn't go the way they should have?  Karen Duncan provides some situations when having a professional on your side would have saved you a lot of money and heartache as her thoughts of the week. Do you have a written bucket list?  This episode talks about the percentage of us who actually have a bucket list and how our bucket list motivates us to getting in shape.   Did you know that vacations should be included in your health and wellness plan?  This episode provides the top 10 reasons v

Your Bucket List Buster continues the conversation about family travel. This episode includes a great conversation with Juliet Perrachon President and Co-founder of BeBe Voyage a website and Facebook page that provides resources for families traveling with infants and toddlers. Your host acknowledges some of the trends in family travel by providing some hotels like the Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons that have uped their game in the family market by providing activities and VIP programs for kids.  Royal Caribbean has joined other cruise lines in providing the services of life guards to insure the safety of children on board their ships. This is due to the increase in the family market and the number of water features on their ships. Karen Duncan also discusses travel news that includes Sandals opening a all suite and butler property in Barbados, Island Routes new Mini Routes Driving Tour, and double pods on Qatar airlines.  And you find out that good old fashion road trips top the list of the AAA family vacat

Karen will discuss: Popular spring break destinations,New out of the box destinations families are traveling to, When families are traveling now days, Who is paying. Resorts and cruise lines are courting multi-generation travelers by creating spaces for everyone.  Multi-generation travel is one of the fastest growing segments in travel. With baby boomers healthier and more active as grand and great-grand parents they want to spend time making memories on family vacations, not just sitting in the kitchen cooking during the holidays. Your Bucket List Buster welcomes Kyle McCarthy Co-founder of the Family Travel Forum on the show to discuss some really interesting trends in family travel. the trusted vacation planning resource serving all who Have Kids, Still Travel!® with print and online guides since 1996. She has led FTF’s Family Travel Consulting strategic marketing team, working with travel businesses and the government tourism offices of Finland, Jordan and Goa, India to examine best practices in attract

Jamaica Tourist Board representative John Woolcock talks to us about all the things to do in beautiful Jamaica.  Jamaica is not just for couples or adults, but has lots to offer families and multi-generation travelers.  John discusses the different accommodation options in Jamaica such as all inclusives, boutiquie hotels, and villas.  He also tells us all about the attractions and tours available on the different areas of the island.  Jamaica offers soft adventure, romance, and family fun.  Because it's so easy to get to from the states it's a great destination for a long weekend or for a bucket list vacation for multiple weeks. You can get there by flying direct from many US or Canadian cities or you can cruise to several ports. Alicia Rovey President and co-founder of Travel Goal Getters App and the All Fifty Club describes their app that helps you keep track of all the destinations you have traveled.  The app is available on iTunes and can be downloaded for you to complete your map of the world.  If visit