Where We Roam Podcast

School is back in session and it’s time to dream big for 2026. In this week’s Where We Roam, John, Dayna, and Shawn share the ultimate inspiration for planning February getaways, spring break escapes, and early summer adventures. From Disney Cruises that hit private islands to Mediterranean voyages, luxury river cruises, and family-friendly all-inclusives, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas for where to roam next year. Plus, we’ve got the inside scoop on can’t-miss promotions — including amazing savings at Hotel Xcaret that make 2026 the perfect time to start planning. Don’t wait too long… these ideas and deals won’t last!

In this week’s episode of Where We Roam, John is joined by Shawn and a very special guest—his son Jack—for a lively family recap of their London and Scotland adventure. From the Tower of London to Ted Lasso’s Richmond, and from black cabs to black pudding, they cover the highlights (and a few surprises) of traveling with kids in the UK. The spotlight, though, is on their overnight ride aboard the Caledonian Sleeper—a bucket list train journey from London to Edinburgh. Hear their honest take on cramped cabins, splitting train cars, Wi-Fi on board, scenic Scottish arrivals, and whether the experience is truly worth it for families. Along the way, Jack gives his candid 12-year-old reviews (spoiler: he has strong feelings about bunk beds, pigeons, and the London Eye). If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to trade a hotel night for a rolling train cabin through the British countryside, this episode has you covered—plus a few laughs, some sibling misadventures, and maybe even a little haggis.

Bigger, bolder, and bursting with entertainment — Star of the Seas is here! 🚢✨ John, Dayna, and fan-favorite Corinne Trigg break down Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ship: from Back to the Future: The Musical and next-level ice shows to hidden bar gems and the best staterooms for families. They dish on what makes Star outshine Icon and Utopia, swap favorite cocktails, and even play a cruise-themed “This or That.” If you’re wondering if this ship is worth the hype, don’t miss this insider-packed episode!

From “skip Rome because it’s too touristy” to “just wing it at Disney” — today we’re tackling some of the worst travel advice floating around the internet (and even coming from well-meaning friends). Join John, Dayna, and Shawn as we share the advice that makes us cringe, why it doesn’t actually work in real life, and what travelers should do instead. We dive into: ✨ The myth of “10 minutes from Disney” Airbnbs ✨ Why “guarantee cabins” on cruises aren’t always a deal ✨ Over-planning (or under-planning) your dream vacation ✨ The truth about upgrades, ticket hacks, and travel insurance ✨ Taking kids to Disney “too young” Whether you’re planning a Disney trip, a European adventure, or a big cruise, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your travel.

This week on ROAM, John, Dayna, and Shawn unpack John’s whirlwind three-day trip to London with his family before heading to Scotland. From scoring an incredible upgrade at the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel to seeing Hamilton live on the West End, John shares how they made the most of just 72 hours in the city. Highlights include: Surviving the red-eye and jumping straight into a hop-on, hop-off bus tour Exploring Covent Garden’s hidden gems and foodie favorites like Dishoom A fancy dinner at Sky Garden with panoramic city views Touring the Tower of London with a Blue Badge guide A relaxing detour to Richmond—yes, the town from Ted Lasso Whether you’re planning a short stopover or just love hearing about family travel done right, this episode is packed with tips, laughs, and insider stories.

We go head-to-head on Disney’s Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Universal’s Express Pass to uncover which skip-the-line service truly delivers the best value. From the complex, tech-heavy world of Lightning Lane to the no-planning-needed freedom of Express Pass, we break down how each system works, what they cost, and the pros and cons you need to know before your next trip. We’ll dive into real-world park experiences, insider strategies, and a bit of theme park history—from the nostalgic paper FastPass days to today’s premium upcharge systems. If you’ve ever wondered whether Disney or Universal offers the better line-skipping deal, or how to get the most out of your park days without wasting time (or money), this is your must-listen episode.

In this episode of the Where We Roam podcast, hosts John and Dayna welcome back original co-host Megan to dive into their recent stay at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, a luxury adults-only all-inclusive resort in Mexico. As part of their travel agency’s Top 10 Agent Retreat, the trio breaks down every detail of this lush, tropical getaway—from first impressions and check-in to pools, rooms, food, drinks, beach access, activities, and the often-overlooked pros and cons. They share: Why Secrets Akumal surprised them with attentive service and thoughtful touches 🍹 Their favorite meals (spoiler: the mango martinis and fried ice cream are 🔥) Honest feedback on room design, cocktails, poolside vibe, and navigating the maze-like layout 🗺️ Whether they’d recommend it for couples, friend groups, or active travelers 👫👯‍♀️ What sets this resort apart from other all-inclusives in the Riviera Maya If you're considering a stay at a Secrets resort—or just curious about how it stacks up to popular spots like Atelier or Sandals—this is the deep dive you need before booking your next beach escape. 📍 Location: Secrets Akumal, Riviera Maya, Mexico 🌴 Resort Type: Adults-Only, All-Inclusive 🎯 Perfect for: Couples, Girlfriend Getaways, Relaxation Seekers

In this episode of Where We Roam, hosts John and Dayna are joined by Royal Caribbean insider Corinne Trigg to break down the exciting details about Perfect Day Mexico, the highly anticipated new private destination opening in Costa Maya in 2027. From record-breaking water slides at Jaguar Tower to the massive adults-only pool at El Hideaway and the all-new Fiesta Plaza, we cover everything you can expect from this next-level private island experience. We also dive into the Royal Beach Club opening in Nassau this December, compare it to Perfect Day at CocoCay, and discuss how these new developments will transform Western Caribbean itineraries out of Galveston, Texas. Plus, Corinne gives us an inside look at what’s coming aboard Star of the Seas, the newest Icon Class ship set to wow cruisers in 2025. Whether you're a Royal Caribbean fan, a cruise planner, or just love dreaming about your next getaway, this episode is packed with must-know updates and insider tips. Key topics covered: Perfect Day Mexico details (opening date, attractions, exclusive access for Royal Caribbean guests) Royal Beach Club Nassau opening and pricing What to expect on the new Star of the Seas How Royal Caribbean is reshaping the cruise experience out of Galveston Perfect Day Mexico, Royal Caribbean private island, Jaguar Tower, El Hidoe adults-only pool, Royal Beach Club Nassau, Star of the Seas, Icon Class ship, Galveston cruises, CocoCay comparison, Royal Caribbean news #PerfectDayMexico #RoyalCaribbean #StarOfTheSeas #CocoCay #RoyalBeachClub #CruisePodcast #WhereWeRoam

Get ready to drool! In this deliciously fun episode of Where We Roam, John, Dayna, and Shawn dive fork-first into Royal Caribbean’s top specialty dining, must-try included eats, and favorite bars—with all the insider tips only seasoned cruise pros can offer. From the Southern charm of Mason Jar to the ultra-exclusive Empire Supper Club and even the hilariously named “Fart 'n Dart Beans” at Royal Railway, this foodie-focused episode is packed with mouthwatering details and laugh-out-loud moments. Plus, we spill the tea on the newly announced Royal Beach Club opening in Nassau, talk drink pairings (hello, bourbon lovers 🍹), and share smart dining strategies to make the most of your sailing—whether you're cruising with kids or going full luxury. 🎧 Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this is the ultimate guide to eating and drinking your way through Royal Caribbean in style. Bon voyage and bon appétit!

In this episode of the Where We Roam Podcast, John and Dayna break down her recent sailing aboard Carnival Celebration, one of Carnival’s newest Excel-class ships. From a stay in the ultra-luxe Presidential Excel Suite to visiting the stunning ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), Dayna shares firsthand insights on what sets this cruise apart. They compare Carnival Celebration to Royal Caribbean’s Icon and Oasis-class ships, diving into differences in entertainment, dining, suite perks, and family-friendly experiences. Curious about Carnival’s new dining venues, suite-only perks like Loft 19, or the vibe of an 8-night sailing vs. a short weekend cruise? This episode is packed with tips, laughs, and brutally honest comparisons that will help you decide if Carnival’s newest ships deserve a spot on your travel wish list. 👉 Perfect for cruisers debating between Carnival Celebration vs. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas, or just curious about what modern Carnival cruising is all about.

In this episode of Where We Roam, we’re headed to the City of Light! Join John, Dayna, and Shawn as they recap Shawn’s unforgettable Paris vacation—an expertly planned 40th birthday getaway filled with artisanal street fare, private food tours through Montmartre, and late-night Eiffel Tower escapades (complete with a flaming tuba performance!). From the Renaissance Arc de Triomphe Hotel to Versailles and the Louvre, we cover it all—plus insider tips on navigating jet lag, booking the best private guides, and curating a Paris itinerary that blends culture, cuisine, and just the right amount of rest. Whether you’re dreaming of your first Parisian adventure or looking to elevate your next trip, this episode offers real travel insights from advisors who book these experiences daily. 🎧 Listen now and discover: Why Montmartre is our favorite Paris neighborhood Where to find the best macarons (hint: it’s not Ladurée!) How to plan a food-forward Paris itinerary Which Paris tours are worth the splurge—and which you can skip Why private transfers and hotel breakfasts make a world of difference

In this episode of the Where We Roam Podcast, John and Dayna spill the (salt-rimmed) tea on the newly renovated Margaritaville at Sea Islander. After a $150 million refresh and a wave of influencer hype, does this tropical-themed cruise deliver paradise—or disappointment? Dayna breaks down her 5-night cruise from Tampa to Key West and Cozumel, covering everything from refurbished rooms and Jimmy Buffett-themed decor to murky pool water, drink package surprises, and sushi served... during karaoke? 😅 We compare the Islander to other budget-friendly cruise options from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and NCL, and give our take on who this cruise is really for (hint: fans of flip-flops, frozen drinks, and zero stress). Timestamps: 03:00 – The real history behind the Islander ship 10:00 – $150M renovation: worth it? 16:00 – Pool & layout quirks you should know 24:00 – Live entertainment, karaoke, and “Conky Tonkin’ at Sea” 31:00 – Drink package pros & surprising liquor inclusions 34:00 – Dining review: buffet vs. specialty 48:00 – Dayna’s excursion fail in Cozumel 50:00 – Who should cruise Margaritaville—and who shouldn’t #MargaritavilleAtSea #CruiseReview #CruisePodcast #BudgetCruise #TampaCruise #CozumelCruise #JimmyBuffettVibes #IslandLifeCruise #WhereWeRoamPodcast #CruiseTips

In this sun-soaked installment of The Roamer Island Guide series on the Where We Roam Podcast, John and Shawn are joined by returning guest host Jess Correia to explore Oʻahu—Hawaii’s most visited island and one packed with diverse experiences. From the iconic beaches of Waikiki to the surf culture of the North Shore and the tranquil vibes of Ko'olina, Oʻahu offers something for every type of traveler. The crew shares smart travel tips, resort recommendations, and personal insights into what makes each corner of the island unique. Whether it’s surfing in Waikiki, spa days at Aulani, or food truck hopping on the North Shore, this episode is your go-to guide for planning an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation. In This Episode: Where to stay: Waikiki vs. Ko'olina vs. North Shore Honest reviews of Aulani and Turtle Bay 🌴 Top activities: surfing, excursions, and historical sites like Pearl Harbor Must-try local eats: Duke’s, Leonard’s, and musubi Car rental tips and when to go without Why splitting your stay across the island can enhance your trip How to make the most of your time in Hawaii’s busiest (and best connected) island 🎧 Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this Roamer Island Guide episode will help you experience Oʻahu like never before.

In this episode of the Where We Roam Podcast, hosts John, Shawn, and Dayna take you on a magical journey through Europe’s most enchanting Disney destination—Disneyland Paris! Fresh from a celebratory birthday trip, Shawn shares first-hand insights on the parks, resorts, Premier Access, and why staying at the charming Disneyland Hotel is a game-changer. 🎠 Discover what makes this park unique, from the epic Hyperspace Mountain and animatronic dragon under Sleeping Beauty Castle, to the perks of concierge-level service and early park entry. We break down the two parks—Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park—including current must-dos, upcoming expansions (hello Arendelle and Lion King), and how to get the most out of your trip without overpaying. Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime Disney Paris adventure or just curious how it compares to U.S. parks, this episode is packed with travel tips, insider experiences, and plenty of laughs. 🎧 Tune in now and let the magic begin—no Eurostar required.

In this episode of the Where We Roam Podcast, John recaps his unforgettable spring break family vacation to Maui — from epic resort stays to island adventures! Tune in as John, Dayna, and Shawn chat about split stays between the Wailea Beach Resort (Marriott) and the luxurious Fairmont Kea Lani, where every room is a one-bedroom suite. Hear about fast water slides, kid-approved amenities, oceanfront breakfasts, and why the Kea Lani might be one of the top resorts in all of Maui. John shares tips on navigating Hawaii travel with kids, snagging the best rental car for island exploring, and which resorts work best for multi-gen families, luxury travelers, and those seeking fun and relaxation. ✈️ Planning a Hawaii trip? This is your go-to guide for doing Maui right — especially with active kids in tow! #MauiVacation #FamilyTravel #FairmontKeaLani #WaileaBeachResort #MauiWithKids #HawaiiTravel #WhereWeRoamPodcast #LuxuryFamilyTravel #MauiResorts #TravelAgentTips

🎢 2026 Showdown: Can Disney Compete with Epic Universe? 🎢 In this episode of the Where We Roam podcast, hosts John, Dayna, and Shawn dive into the biggest theme park rivalry of the decade: Disney vs. Universal. With Universal's Epic Universe set to redefine the Orlando park experience, the trio explores how Disney is responding—including new 2026 promotions like the kids-eat-free dining plan. They break down travel trends post-COVID, why Disney’s attendance is down, and whether 2026 will be a bounce-back year or another slow season. From Magic Bands to Magic Kingdom, Lightning Lanes to room discounts, it’s a real talk about value, strategy, and what guests can expect as the theme park wars heat up. Plus: hot takes on a potential fifth gate, the future of FastPass, and why some fans are trimming Disney for Epic. 🎟️ Is this the moment Universal pulls ahead? Or will Disney finally course-correct?

Get ready to warp into another dimension of theme park magic! In this episode of Where We Roam, John, Shawn, and Dayna dive wand-first into Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe after Dayna’s exclusive Passholder Sneak Peek! From stepping through jaw-dropping portals to racing through galaxies on Stardust Racers, Dayna spills all the spellbinding details. You’ll hear her unfiltered first impressions of Super Nintendo World (yes, she ate at Toadstool Caféand has thoughts), and her spine-tingling walkthrough of Darkmoor, where Monsters Unchained redefines the haunted house genre. We’re talking fire-breathing dragons, virtual queue wizardry at the Ministry of Magic, and a peek inside a dazzling 1920s Paris straight out of the Wizarding World. And don’t miss Dayna’s reaction to one of the most delightfully weird carousels we've ever seen. This episode is packed with insider tips, laugh-out-loud moments, and a little friendly debate over how Epic Universe stacks up against the Mouse. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a theme park foodie, or just here for the character hugs, this is your front row seat to the future of Universal! 🎧 Press play and let’s roam Epic together!

John, Dayna, and Shawn face off in the ultimate Disney resort battle—Wilderness Lodge vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge! 🐾 From epic theming and mouthwatering dining 🍽️ to room views, pricing 💰, and location 🗺️, they cover everything you need to know to choose your perfect Disney stay. Plus, some pre-Hawaii trip excitement to set the vibe! 🌺✈️

Exploring the Disney Treasure: Aboard Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Ship In this episode of Where We Roam Podcast, hosts John, Dayna, and Shawn dive into Dayna’s recent voyage aboard the Disney Treasure, the newest addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet. They share first impressions from embarkation day, explore the stunning atrium design, and discuss crowd management throughout the ship. Listeners will get an inside look at dining options, themed lounges, and the pool deck experience, including a deep dive into the AquaMouse water attraction and how it compares to other Disney ships. The hosts also break down spring break crowd strategies, tips for accessing popular activities, and must-try mixology experiences. Special highlights include an in-depth discussion on the Haunted Mansion Bar and Jungle Skipper Society Lounge, the immersive details of Disney’s themed bars, and a comparison between the Disney Treasure and Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. From entertainment and dining to family-friendly activities and adult-exclusive spaces like Quiet Cove, this episode is packed with valuable cruise insights. Tune in for expert tips, personal anecdotes, and an honest take on the Disney Cruise vs. Royal Caribbean debate!

In this fun-filled episode of Where We Roam, John, Dayna, and special guest Shawn go head-to-head in the ultimate Disney resort showdown! 🏆 Will the tropical paradise of the Polynesian Resort win their hearts, or will the rustic charm of Wilderness Lodge take the crown? 🌺🌲 From room layouts to dining must-tries, transportation hacks, and hidden gems, they break it all down—plus, there’s a surprise twist when they tally up the final scores! 🎢🏝️🎯 Whether you're dreaming of Dole Whips or cozying up by a roaring fire, this episode will help you choose your perfect Disney stay. 🎙️✨ Tune in now for the ultimate resort face-off! 🎧🏰 #DisneyPodcast #PolynesianVsWildernessLodge #WhereWeRoam