Your Bucket List Buster

Meet Mark Shea, the Groups Sales Manager with with Unique Vacations/Sandals and Beaches resorts.  Mark and his wife visited Sandals so many times on their own he then turned it into a career.  Learn how Mark like myself wound up choosing a career in travel, how he was so passionate about where he vacationed he now gets to talk about it all the time. We will talk about how you too can host a group of friends and family on vacation.  Mark will not only talk abou thow he has a career with Sandals but how Sandals is the best at hosting groups of all kinds, golf, weddings, girlfriend getaways, food and wine groups, etc. Also, we'll talk about one of the hottest trends in travel, food and drink tourism and current travel news. Listen for some really great travel promotions from some our travel partners.  

How do you decide which destination you want to go to?  How do you decide where to stay? There are a lot of vacation options available for people to decide from.  Do you google your options, do you ask your friends and family for recommendations, or do you find a consultant that specializes in your type of vacation? Do you prefer cruising or an all inclusive? This weeks show will be about how to find the right advice when planning your vacation.  Finding a consultant who continuously invests in learning what is available for their clients is the key, and listening.  We'll talk about the 3 islands in 3 days training I've just gone through with Sandals Resorts.  And what Shellda learned this past weekend when she went on tour with Carnival. Listen in as we provide details of the whats new with Carnival and the super fantastic beaches of Turks and Caicos, and the incredible new Sandals resort in Grenada, the La Source. We'll talk about great fall promotions, travel news, and travel trends.  Join us live, and

This show will touch on a topic related to Health and Wellness Travel.  Medical tourism is one of the fastest growing trends in travel.  With the rising cost of healthcare, and the American population aging, baby boomers retiring, Medical Tourism is a hot topic. Although it's been around for many years we'll talk about the definition of Medical tourism.  The discussion will become lively as we talk about the top destinations for certain procedures, what procedures people are traveling to have done, the process, and the risks. There is so much to discuss about this interesting topic including ethical issues and what questions to ask prospective physicians.  Don't miss this show if you have ever thought about going across the borders, the ocean, or even state lines to seek medical help.  Listen so you can make the right decision! Did you know you can make payments on your next vacation? We will discuss travel trends of the week, travel news, and of course Shellda's Fun Facts. Call into the station to tell

We all know people who always seem to be having fun and going places.  And then there are those who talk about what they want to do and where they want to go but they never do it.  Which one are you?  If we look at what's happening it the world we could all be paralyzed with fear, hesitation or concern about lack of resources. But how many of us have seen loved ones pass on to the next life without having lived out their dreams.  Do you have any regrets in life? Now is the time to do the things you want to do.  Find a way to make it happen since next year or tomorrow is not promised to any of us. The Bucket List Buster Series is a call to action based on people's dreams of adventure and fun.  We will continue to talk about traveling to destinations on everyone's bucket list.  This episode we will discuss doing things and activities you dream about, Cooking classes, wine and olive oil tasting in Italy, Fishing in Alaska, Climbing Mount Everest in Nepal, Playing the Saxaphone on stage for the first time, scub

Everyone has a bucket list and Alaska is usually one of those destinations at the top of the list.  On this show we will have Jeannie Robertson from Holland America Cruises on the show.  Jeannie is not only a business development manager who helps agents sell cruises, she and her husband worked as entertainers on Holland out of Alaska for over 20 years.  If anyone knows Alaska, it's Jeannie. Listen in as she describes with such enthusiasm the call of the wild.  You will be drawn into her passion about this magnificent and majestic destination that is part of the United States. We'll discuss our group opportunity this coming June to visit Alaska.  We'll talk about what makes Holland America different. We'll discuss theme or activity cruises, like comedy and music. We'll discuss additional fall deals. Of course we'll discuss travel news, travel trends and Shellda's Fun Facts. Join us as we explore Alaska on It's Travel Time with Karen    

Everyone knows we are Sandals specialist which is couples only, so this episode will show some love to our single listeners.  Guest speaker Shelby Bergeron of SinglesCruise.com will talk about the fun cruises and trips they put together exclusively for single clients.  We'll discuss who and what they do, (not a matchmaking service), but they do have successes to talk about, what their trips include, who are they for, and upcoming trips and events.  If you are single you don't want to miss this fun, high energy episode. Also, I'm currently at the Texas Travel Industry Association conference in Galveston Texas, so I'll let you in on some of the great activities and events happening in Galveston and in the world of Travel and Tourism in Texas.  Other discussions will include why you need to be careful posting vacation plans on social media, (wait until you get back), upcoming group trips and events, and our Bucket List Buster Series. Shellda will have also have her Fun Facts

Everyone has a bucket list and Alaska is usually one of those destinations at the top of the list.  On this show we will have Jeannie Robertson from Holland America Cruises on the show.  Jeannie is not only a business development manager who helps agents sell cruises, she and her husband worked as entertainers on Holland out of Alaska for over 20 years.  If anyone knows Alaska, it's Jeannie. Listen in as she describes with such enthusiasm the call of the wild.  You will be drawn into her passion about this magnificent and majestic destination that is part of the United States. We'll discuss our group opportunity this coming June to visit Alaska.  We'll talk about what makes Holland America different. We'll discuss theme or activity cruises, like comedy and music. We'll discuss additional fall deals. Of course we'll discuss travel news, travel trends and Shellda's Fun Facts. Join us as we explore Alaska on It's Travel Time with Karen    

Well this show will be jam packed with information about group travel.  Some people enjoy traveling in groups others don't.  Why travel with a group, there are some benefits even if you don't know the people in the group.  We'll discuss those benefits.  The advantages and disadvantages of traveling in groups. Group leaders, what are they, who are they, who would make a good group leader. What are the responsibilities of a group leader.  There can be huge benefits for declaring yourself the group leader.  You've probably been planning group trips anyway, get the perks. What makes a group?  How many people are considered a group?  We'll talk about the different numbers based on travel suppliers and partners in the industry. And of course how to find a group.  You are a part of groups throughout your life that can turn into a travel group. So listen in as we define this fun way to travel with benefits! Travel Trends, Travel News, The Travelers Club Meetup Group activities, and other fun discussions on this

This will be a fantastic show about all things sports travel.  We will highlight, college sports, amateur sports outside of college, and pro sports.  Sports travel is a huge industry and we'll talk about those bucket list related sports trips. If you have ever wanted to go to a popular sporting event, then this is the show you need to hear. We'll have a guest speaker from Roadtrips the Ultimate in Sports Travel, a travel partner of Peeks Cruises & Tours, who helps us put together sports related packages to all the major sporting events all over the world.  Listen in as Jake Vezeau discusses packages to the up coming 2016 Summer Games in Rio, Super Bowl, Masters, and even Circuit of the Americas Grand Prix, to name a few. We'll talk about the job opportunities in this growing industry for anyone looking to living their dream through sports without being an athlete. We'll also have David Teel the CEO of Texas Travel Industry Association who will discuss Travel in Texas.  David will discuss the great care

This week's episode will delve into the world of holiday travel.  What do you do for the holidays, visit family, go on vacation, stay home, visit someplace local?  We will look at holiday options, when is the best time to book your travel, the best places to go for the holidays. Trends for the week-statistics on what people do for the holidays, where do they go, what are some of the hot destinations for holiday travel Travel News: What are the airlines doing this year during the holidays, how best to maneuver your travel for the holidays. 20 Holiday travel Tips from Industry Insiders The advantages and disadvantages of traveling during the holidays Vacation Packages for the holidays. Update on the Texas Jazz Jam Cruise in October. Traveling to Austin for the Holidays by Yolanda Travel Fun Facts

Now that summer travel season is officially over now that school is back in session, we'll take a look at hot travel trends and news of summer 2014.  We'll also take a look at  some of the predictions of trends in travel for the upcoming year.  What's hot, what's not! Travel news, we'll touch on what the cruise lines options are when hurricanes get in the way.  How safety and flexibility are the key to having a fantastic cruise vacation during this time of year. Other travel news will include the wine country of California still open for business. The travel industry is recruiting young people into the business. Mitchell and Karen Duncan are now included in an exclusive club of Sandals Resorts Certified WeddingMoon Specialist and our trip to St Lucia to train for this honor. Travel Trends: How about Science and Travel, hear how you can combine the two.  Classrooms without Walls. Last but not least upcoming trips for 2015, meetup events, and more!

Join us as we discuss great romantic destinations, resorts, amenities, and offers. We'll have Gretel Del Junco Wedding Business Development Coordinator Unique Vacations Inc. An Affiliate of the Worldwide Representative of Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts on the show to discuss WeddingMoons, Vow Renewals, the different wonderful islands to get get married or spend some time with your loved one. We'll discuss group amenities and packages. Milestone Anniversaries We'll talk about many destinations and options both local and international that you can spend time with people you love. Of course there will be travel news, shout outs for great customer service in the hospitality industry, and travel trends related to romance travel. Meet our co-host, enjoy our Travel Fun Facts!

This weeks episode is all about vacation etiquette. We will discuss preparation for 1st time cruisers, from reserving your first cruise, understanding stateroom categories, and the differences in being on certain decks. The discussion will include what to pack, tips on the boarding and disembarking process, and online registering for excursions, special dinners, and liquor packages. We will discuss how to get your travel documents and luggage tags. Also, on this weeks show, Yolanda will talk about while vacationing not being afraid to try new things, foods, wines, and restaurants.  Understanding the differences in cultures and dining etiquette is important so there are no misunderstanings.  And with this will be a lively discussion I'm sure on gratuities based on where you are and what's appropriate. As always we'll have our weekly travel news and trends.  And of course Shellda's Fun Facts.

This episode will be about what to do locally.  Staycations is one of the fastest growing summer vacation trends this summer.  Austin is one of the fastest growing, most popular cities in the country.  People travel here from all over the world for different events.  What is here for the locals?  Does it matter what your nationality is, if you are young or old? Join in on this discussion. We'll talk with Charolette Moore a Austin Blogger and get her take. We'll define staycations and discuss family friendly and great romantic couple fun. We'll talk about Austin's ranking within the state for Tourism This weeks travel news and travel trends. Austin Travel Fun Facts Upcoming Vacation Packages and trips

Today's episode we will have a guest speaker from the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau , Leslie Straughan. We'll discuss what to do in New Orleans outside of Mardi Gras, festivals, tours, and having your honeymoon in this great historic city. We'll discuss the state departments warnings about travel to Israel at this time and Israel's hope we'll still travel there. We'll discuss a new little sandwich shop grand opening in Pflugerville, Lil Mama's owned by Heather Biagas Current specials from Sandals, Palace and Hard Rock Resorts Benefits of traveling with a group because of certain amenities groups should ask for. And the announcement of some great group trips for 2015, China, Essence Festival, and The Quantum during Spring Break. Also, for upcoming brides, Once Upon A Wedding Expo and Bridal Show-come win a chance for a honeymoon on Peeks Cruises & Tours and Sandals

This episode we will discuss destinations, and resorts that focus on wellness travel.  What is fitness and wellness travel, it's going to a place that helps you reset, revigerate, and reboot your life.  This type of travel offers, fitness classes, healthy eating, quiet spaces for meditation and self reflection, and spa treatments. These type vacations are most frequented by people who value healthy lifestyles, but are also for those of us who are trying to get there, or for girlfriend getaways, and moms and dads who just need a break. Travel News: Marriott Launches Love Travels a campaign that caters to LGBT community. Consumers booking travel early, already into summer 2015. Meet  Josh Oliver who has a dream of going  to Disney World this Christmas with his family and best friend. Travel Trends, how millennials determine their destination choices, experiental travel, obligatory travel on the rise.

This episode will be the start of finding new and exciting events, destinations and accommodations.  We'll highlight a new festival in Hawaii, and group of resorts, both new and popular. Shellda will discuss her fantastic trip to a US destination, Detroit and crossing the border into Canada. We'll have a speaker from Fiesta Americana and Live Aqua resorts, premier resorts in Mexico. Also, I'll highlight working with professionals and the new certifications our agency has earned. Are you looking to change careers or have always been interested in the travel and tourism industry?  Then listen as we discuss classes at Austin Community College that can wet your appetite. Of course travel news and travel trends

This weeks show will be full of information and fun with Kelly Fontenelle- Clarke from St Lucia Tourists Board.  Kelly will tell us all about what to do in St Lucia, the events and culture of this romantic and wonderful island.  We'll discuss the history of St Lucia, and what makes St Lucia so popular and romantic. Also, this week we'll discuss Carnival is bringing a new ship to Texas,  and how you can still benefit from special promotions to the Caribbean this summer and fall, in our Travel News. Also, Funjet has added another feature to their already full list of great offers, wedding concierges. Of course we will have Shellda's Fun Facts and Yolanda's local picks.  

Join us as we discuss great romantic destinations, resorts, amenities, and offers. We'll have Gretel Del JuncoWedding Business Development Coordinator Unique Vacations Inc. An Affiliate of the Worldwide Representative of Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts on the show to discuss WeddingMoons, Vow Renewals, the different wonderful islands to get get married or spend some time with your loved one. We'll discuss group amenities and packages. Milestone Anniversaries We'll talk about many destinations and options both local and international that you can spend time with people you love. Of course there will be travel news, shout outs for great customer service in the hospitality industry, and travel trends related to romance travel. Meet our co-host, enjoy our Travel Fun Facts!

This is the first week of summer and summer travel is on everyone's mind.  Most starting making plans months ago, some are just now starting to look.  There is a way to still enjoy a summer vacation.  Whether is limitless budget or a really limited one, there is still time to have a great time with your loved ones and friends. Bucket list destinations according to the USTOA. Travel locally within the state or the United States-destinations you dont really think about. Local Festivals Be ready to pull the trigger when you've contacted an agent-Great specials for short periods of time Things to do right here at home-Create your own tour, foodie tour, theme parks, spas, luxury hotels, water parks, etc. StayCations Look for existing group trips to tag along New Trend: Experiential travel-Traveling together and experiencing the destination Travel News: The Four Seasons Punta Mita in the Riviera Nayarit has unveiled some new guest activities that go beyond the traditional offerings. Are the seas becoming