In Episode 170 of The Family Vacationer, Rob continues the holiday destination series with a trip to Andalusia, Alabama. Joined by Melissa King and Maggie Homes from the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce, the episode highlights the city’s rich history, festive spirit, and its iconic Christmas in Candyland event. Discover why this charming Southern town is a perfect holiday getaway for families!

**Show Notes: Episode 169 – Holiday Magic in Owosso and Shiawassee County, Michigan**

Join *The Family Vacationer* as Rob spotlights Owosso and Shiawassee County, Michigan—a perfect blend of small-town charm, history, and festive spirit. Whether for a holiday getaway or a year-round family destination, this area delivers unforgettable experiences.

### **Why Visit?**

- Explore rich railroading history, vibrant arts, and Curwood Castle, a landmark tied to James Oliver Curwood.

- Enjoy a welcoming community and beautiful Midwestern heritage.

### **Holiday Highlights**

- **North Pole Express:**

- Historic train rides (mid-November–Christmas) by the Steam Railroading Institute.

- Features the Pere Marquette 1225, inspiration for *The Polar Express*, and Ashley’s North Pole-themed village.

- **Christmas at Durand Depot:**

- Over 250 decorated trees, Santa story hours, and holiday photos.

- **Shiawassee Arts Center:**

- Weekly art exhibits and local handmade gifts.

- **Community Events:**

- Perry, Vernon, Byron, and Laingsburg host festive parades and celebrations.

### **Special Guest: Kim Springsdorf**

Kim Springsdorf, Executive Director of the Shiawassee County CVB, shares insider tips on holiday traditions and local attractions.

### **Family-Friendly Attractions**

- **Parades & Lighting Events:**

- *Owosso Glow Parade* (Nov. 29): Santa, tree lighting, and fireworks.

- *Durand Holidays in the Depot* (Nov. 30): All-day festivities and a lighted parade.

- *Corunna McCurdy Park Parade* (Dec. 6): Holiday lights in a historic setting.

- **Unique Spots:**

- McCurdy Park Historic Village: December Festival of Trees.

- Curwood Castle: Michigan’s only castle in a scenic park.

- **Small-Town Festivals:**

- Elsie Winter Fest: Holiday markets, music, and parades (Dec. 1, 7, 8).

- Perry Christmas Fantasy (Dec. 14): Parade and family fun.

### **Dining & Lodging**

- **Dining:** Local favorites include Don Felipe’s, Durand Union Smokehouse, and The Twig.

- **Lodging:** Family-friendly hotels like Comstock Inn and Quality Inn with pools.

### **Year-Round Activities**

- **Outdoor Adventures:** Hopkins Lake, Green Meadows, and Debree Nature Conservancy.

- **Historic Charm:** Downtown Owosso and McCurdy Park.

### **Plan Your Trip**

- **When to Visit:** Holiday events run late November through December.

- **Don’t Miss:** The Polar Express train and Durand Depot displays.

- **Explore:** Downtown Owosso and nearby towns for unique finds.

### **Resources**

- [Shiawassee County CVB](https://www.shiawassee.org)

- [Steam Railroading Institute](https://www.michigansteamtrain.com)

- [Curwood Castle](https://www.curwoodcastle.com)

Plan your visit to Shiawassee County for an unforgettable holiday experience. Happy holidays from *The Family Vacationer*!

Episode 168 Highlights:

1. Introduction to Woodstock, Vermont

• Discover this charming town in central Vermont, near Lebanon, NH, and Rutland, VT.
• A brief history of Woodstock’s New England character and why it’s a great holiday destination.

1. Wassail Weekend Preview

• A glimpse at the 40th Annual Wassail Weekend, held December 13–15:
• Wassail Scavenger Hunt: Start your holiday adventure at the “Town Smiler” with a town-wide scavenger hunt.
• Christmas at Billings Farm & Museum: Enjoy Victorian holiday traditions, including candle-dipping and sleigh rides.
• Rare & Vintage Book Sale and Story Hour at Norman Williams Public Library.
• Woodstock Town Hall Theatre: Live performances and holiday music in a historic setting.

1. Saturday’s Main Events

• Artisan and Food Market on the Village Green: Local crafts and treats.
• Wassail Parade: Horses decked out in festive regalia for an iconic holiday parade.
• Luminary Lighting and Caroling: Caroling, tree lighting, and a cozy bonfire to end the day.

1. Family-Friendly Sunday Activities

• Billings Farm Victorian Traditions: Another chance for old-time holiday charm.
• Skate with Santa at Union Arena: A holiday skating experience with Santa.
• Snow Maiden Puppet Show at Town Hall Theatre.
• Messiah Sing at Our Lady of the Snows: A community sing-along of Handel’s Messiah.

1. Tips for a Great Visit

• Dress Warmly: Layers are key for Vermont’s cold winters.
• Plan Ahead: Reserve tickets and dinner reservations early.
• Shuttle Service: Park at Woodstock Union High School and take the free shuttle.

1. Dining and Lodging Suggestions

• Dining: Enjoy a cozy meal at local spots like Worthy Kitchen and Mon Vert Café.
• Accommodations: Stay at The Woodstock Inn & Resort for a memorable holiday getaway.

1. Year-Round Attractions and Festivals

• Woodstock is great all year! Explore other events, outdoor activities, and arts festivals that make this town a family-friendly destination.

Social Media & Hashtags:

Share your Wassail Weekend photos with #WoodstockVT and tag @TheFamilyVacationer to be featured!

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Wassail Weekend Information
• Billings Farm & Museum
• The Woodstock Inn & Resort
• Norman Williams Public Library
• Pentangle Arts at Woodstock Town Hall Theatre

Episode Title: The Lasting Power of Family Vacation Memories

Episode Description:

In this heartfelt episode of *The Family Vacationer*, Rob opens up about a recent personal loss and how, through creating a memorial slideshow for his dad, he discovered the profound impact family vacations had on their lives. With photos and memories bringing laughter, adventure, and cherished moments flooding back, Rob shares how these trips have become priceless pieces of his family’s legacy. Join us as we explore why family vacations are more than just getaways and how they shape and strengthen family bonds that stand the test of time.

Episode Highlights:

- Why Family Vacations Matter – More than just a break, family vacations create moments that last a lifetime and help shape family identities.

- Capturing the Real Moments – The importance of candid photos that capture the spirit of a trip rather than just picture-perfect poses.

- Building Strong Family Connections*– How shared experiences during family trips build resilience, empathy, and connection.

- The Priceless Value of Memories – Reflections on how these memories gain value over time and become treasures that connect us with loved ones who have passed.

- Tips for Memory-Making on Your Next Family Trip – Practical advice on how to be present, create meaningful moments, and document the special moments that bring a trip to life.

Tune in for a reflective conversation on the true value of family vacations and how making time for these experiences can bring families closer together, one memory at a time.

Connect with Us:

- Follow us on Instagram: [@TheFamilyVacationer](https://instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

- Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen!

- Share your favorite family vacation memories with us by tagging #TheFamilyVacationer

The Family Vacationer Podcast - Episode 166: The Best Places to See the Leaves Changing in the Fall

Episode Overview:

In this episode of *The Family Vacationer*, Rob takes you on a colorful journey through some of the best places in the U.S. to experience the magic of fall foliage. Whether you're planning a quick weekend road trip or a longer family vacation, you'll get expert tips on the top destinations to soak in the season's vibrant colors.

Topics Covered:

1. New England Fall Foliage

- Explore Vermont’s Green Mountain Byway, with family-friendly activities like apple picking and cider mills.

- Discover New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway and scenic spots in the White Mountains.

- Experience Acadia National Park in Maine, where coastal views meet stunning autumn landscapes.

2. Southern and Midwestern Fall Adventures

- Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, with Asheville as your base for exploration.

- Enjoy the colors of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including the picturesque Cades Cove.

- Explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, from the Porcupine Mountains to the waterfalls of Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

- Visit Door County, Wisconsin, where local traditions like fish boils and scenic drives offer a unique fall experience.

3. Western and Mountain Foliage Destinations

- Discover the beauty of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas and Missouri, with winding scenic drives through dense forests.

- Take in the golden hues of Aspen, Colorado, and the breathtaking views of Maroon Bells.

- Head to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia for the perfect mix of scenic drives and outdoor activities along Skyline Drive.

Why You Should Listen:

If you love the idea of a family getaway surrounded by the beauty of autumn, this episode is packed with inspiration. Rob shares practical travel tips, must-see spots, and ideas for making the most of your fall foliage trips—whether you're into hiking, scenic drives, or simply enjoying the crisp air and vibrant landscapes.

Links and Resources Mentioned

- Acadia National Park

- Green Mountain Byway (Vermont)

- The Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

- The Blue Ridge Parkway

- Great Smoky Mountains National Park

- Porcupine Mountains (Michigan)

- Maroon Bells (Aspen, Colorado)

- Shenandoah National Park

Follow Us:

Be sure to subscribe to *The Family Vacationer* on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode! For more family travel inspiration, follow us on social media and visit our website for additional resources.

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Episode 165: Tackling Overtourism – A Guide to Sustainable Travel

Welcome back to The Family Vacationer. I’m your host, Rob, and today we’re diving deep into a pressing issue in the travel world: overtourism. This year has seen tourism take on new challenges, and overtourism has emerged as a major concern. But what does overtourism mean, and how can we tackle it? In this episode, we’ll explore the impact of too many tourists on our favorite destinations and discuss how we can make a positive difference through sustainable travel practices.

What is Overtourism?

Overtourism happens when a destination experiences so many visitors that it starts to suffer. This usually results in environmental damage, cultural erosion, and a diminished experience for both tourists and locals. Think of it as loving a place to death: the very beauty that draws people in becomes compromised by the sheer volume of visitors.

Examples Around the World

Venice, Italy: This city’s iconic canals and historic buildings are being damaged by the overwhelming number of tourists. The influx has strained the city’s infrastructure and endangered its preservation.

Barcelona, Spain:*Famous landmarks like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell face massive crowds, which affect the quality of life for residents and the visitor experience.

Hawaii and New York City: These popular spots are grappling with the effects of excessive tourism, from the strain on natural landscapes in Hawaii to overcrowded attractions in New York.

What Can Families Do? Embracing Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism is key to reducing the negative impacts of travel while maximizing benefits to local communities and environments. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Conserve Resource

2. Support Local Economies

3. Be Culturally Sensitive

4. Reduce Waste

5. Minimize Environmental Impact

Practical Tips for Families

1. Plan Ahead

2. Travel Off-Peak

3.Educate Your Family

4. Be Mindful

5. Leave No Trace

Alternative Destinations

Explore these less crowded but equally enchanting destinations:

- Instead of Paris...

- Instead of Santorini...

- Instead of Tokyo...

- Instead of Venice...

Closing Thoughts

As travelers, we play a crucial role in shaping the future of the destinations we visit. By embracing sustainable tourism and considering alternative destinations, we can help preserve the beauty and integrity of these places for future generations. Remember, it's not just about where we go but how we travel that makes a difference.

We're not here to tell you how to think or what to do. The hope is just to raise awareness of these very real issues for your consideration.

That’s a wrap for today’s episode of The Family Vacationer. I hope this discussion on overtourism has given you valuable insights and practical tips. If you have questions or tips of your own, feel free to reach out to us.

rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

Thanks for joining me today, and as always, keep your passports and your hearts open. Safe travels, everyone!

Episode 164 – Gainesville, FL: A Family-Friendly Destination and College Town

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob takes you on a journey to Gainesville, Florida—a vibrant city that’s perfect for family vacations and an ideal spot for those considering the University of Florida. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, visiting cultural hotspots, or looking into college options, Gainesville has something for everyone.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Modern History of Gainesville:

- Learn about Gainesville’s rich history, from its early days as a railroad hub to its transformation into a lively college town, thanks to the University of Florida.

2. Family-Friendly Activities:

- Explore Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, where you can spot wild bison and horses.

- Wander through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, perfect for nature-loving families.

- Visit the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo for an educational and interactive animal experience.

- Discover the Florida Museum of Natural History, featuring the popular Butterfly Rainforest.

- Cool off with tubing at Ichetucknee Springs State Park, just a short drive from Gainesville.

3. You Places to Stay:

- Find family-friendly accommodations, from the modern Hotel ELEO at UF to the charming Sweetwater Branch Inn.

- Budget-conscious travelers can check out Drury Inn & Suites Gainesville for great value and amenities.

4. Family-Friendly Dining:

- Enjoy pizza and quirky vibes at Satchel’s Pizza, complete with a playground for kids.

- Savor diverse dishes at The Top, a downtown spot with something for everyone.

- Opt for healthy, locally-sourced meals at Civilization.

- Don’t miss SweetBerries Frozen Custard & Eatery for a sweet treat.

5. Gainesville as a College Town:

- Get insights into what makes Gainesville an appealing choice for families with teens considering the University of Florida.

- Learn about campus life, safety, housing, and the vibrant community that supports UF students.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or helping your teen explore college options, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to Gainesville, FL. Rob shares tips on the best activities, places to stay, and dining options, along with valuable insights into what makes Gainesville a top-notch college town.

Enjoy the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share The Family Vacationer with other families looking for travel inspiration. Got questions or suggestions? Reach out to us—we’d love to hear from you!

Listen Now: [Insert podcast link] 🔗

Connect with Us

- Website: www.thefamilyvacationer.live

- Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer

- Facebook: @thefamilyvacationerpodcast

## Show Notes: Episode 163 of The Family Vacationer Podcast - Exploring Ocala, Marion County, Florida

**Welcome to the show.**

"Yes. Thank you for having me. I'm excited to be on and talk about Ocala."

"We're excited to talk about it."

**Introduction to Ocala, Marion County**

Our guest introduces Ocala as a premier family travel destination, highlighting its status as the "Horse Capital of the World" and its abundance of natural wonders. From trails and springs to outdoor adventures, Ocala offers a diverse array of activities for families.

**Family-Friendly Accommodations in Ocala**

- **Hilton Ocala**: Conveniently located off I-75, featuring a great pool, on-site horse, and family-friendly amenities.

- **Hilton Garden Inn Downtown**: Located on the square, ideal for walking to restaurants, boutiques, and live music events.

- **Farm Stays**: Unique accommodations on horse farms, allowing families to interact with horses.

- **Riding Academy Hotel**: Pet and family-friendly hotel within the World Equestrian Center.

**Dining in Ocala**

- **Downtown Ocala**: Mellow Mushroom for pizza, Sayulita for Mexican street tacos with outdoor games, and Grandpa Joe's Candy Shop for nostalgic treats.

- **Eaton's Beach**: Located on Lake Weir, offering lakeside dining with options for beach play and water sports.

**Indoor Activities for Rainy Days**

- **Skating Rinks**: Offering rollerblading and classic roller skating with music.

- **Escape Rooms**: Family-friendly puzzles and challenges.

- **Fun Works Arcade**: Indoor gaming and entertainment.

- **Sky Zone**: Indoor trampoline park for active fun.

- **Ocala Drive-In**: A nostalgic drive-in movie experience, even in the rain.

**Outdoor Adventures and Parks**

- **Canyons Zip Line Adventure Park**: Zip lining, horseback riding, and gem mining in a picturesque former limestone quarry.

- **Horseback Riding**: Various trails and guided rides available, showcasing Ocala's equestrian heritage.

- **Springs and Parks**: Rainbow Springs State Park for tubing, Silver Springs State Park for glass bottom boat tours, and several springs in the Ocala National Forest for swimming and paddling.

**Family-Friendly Events and Festivals**

- **Art Walk**: Monthly downtown event with local artists, live music, and kids' activities.

- **Equestrian Events**: Including the Grandview Invitational draft horse show.

- **Holiday Events**: Light Up Ocala, Christmas light shows, and Winter Wonderland at the World Equestrian Center starting after Thanksgiving.

**Historical and Cultural Sites**

- **Silver River Museum and Education Center**: Engaging exhibits and scavenger hunts for kids.

- **Fort King**: A historical fort with events, reenactments, and trails.

- **Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing**: Showcasing drag racing history and antique cars.

**Insider Tips for Families**

Our guest shares valuable tips for maximizing your family's visit to Ocala, including the best times to visit, must-see attractions, and how to make the most of both indoor and outdoor activities.

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Tune in to learn more about the diverse experiences Ocala, Marion County has to offer for a memorable family vacation!