Trip Tales | A Family Travel Podcast

I’m officially hooked on airport lounge life! The food, the quiet space, the drinks, the CLEAN bathrooms! In this episode, I’m sharing exactly which credit cards I opened to get lounge access, how I’m using Priority Pass, and the perks that are making airport travel a million times better. If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Capital One Venture X referral link: https://i.capitalone.com/JMxfRZaqs - American Express referral link: https://americanexpress.com/en-us/referral/business-platinum-charge-card?ref=KELSEGDw7n&xl=cp01 - Chase Sapphire referral link: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19y/CFF6FUKQE5 - American Express credit cards and lounges - Capital One credit cards and lounges - Chase Sapphire credit cards and lounges - Cleveland Airport (CLE) - The Club Airport Lounges - The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett - The Lost Ticket by Freya Sampson - Priority Pass Lounge Network - Points and Miles

Jenn from the Kids Travel Tales podcast is sharing about a 4-night sailing on the Disney Wish with her husband and two daughters (ages 5 and 7) and the decision to go all in on Concierge Level. They paid about $3,000 more for the Concierge upgrade, but after a dining request hiccup and realizing they weren’t actually using many of the perks, Jenn started wondering: Is Disney Cruise Line Concierge really worth the extra money? We break down exactly what you get with Concierge Level, from early boarding and the private lounge to priority booking and theater seating, plus where Jenn felt the experience fell short. We also chat about dining on the Wish, Castaway Cay vs. Lookout Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s newest itineraries—including the exciting return to sailing out of New York City—and why Jenn still loves Disney cruising even if she might skip Concierge next time. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Jenn from the Kids Travel Tales podcast - Disney Wish Cruise Ship - Concierge Level - Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic, Disney Wonder - Terminal C at MCO (Jet Blue) - Away We Go Transfer - Holiday Inn Express Cocoa Beach - Palo - Castaway Cay vs. Lookout Cay Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

I’m recapping my quick mother-son getaway to Puerto Rico with Parker over Labor Day Weekend 2026! We spent just two nights at the newly renovated Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, which recently completed a $65 million renovation, and I was so pleasantly surprised by how easy and beautiful this trip was. Puerto Rico gives you that true Caribbean vacation feeling - without needing a passport! I’m sharing my honest thoughts on the resort, the pools, water slides, beach, food, family-friendly amenities, and why I think this is such a great option for an easy, quick getaway. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Dolly All The Time book: https://amzlink.to/az0XxOaskRMCA - Earle Meets World - Dancing with the Stars - GSI Airport Transfer: https://www.gsipuertorico.com/ - Wyndham Grand Rio Mar - Club Wyndham: Margaritaville Vacation Club - Restaurants: Roots Coastal Kitchen, It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere

Jacki ( @trips.and.dips_ ) is back on Trip Tales! After first joining us to share about her girls’ trip to Puerto Rico, she’s returning to take us along on a very special 10-day trip through Italy to celebrate her mom’s 70th birthday. In May 2026, Jacki and her mom kicked things off in Venice before making their way to Rome, where Jacki’s brother joined the fun, and then finished along the gorgeous Italian coast with Sorrento as their home base. We’re talking gondola rides, food tours, iconic Roman sights, Aperol Spritzes, boat days to Capri and along the Amalfi Coast, incredible meals, and beautiful hotels! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Follow Jackie on Instagram @trips.and.dips_ ( https://www.instagram.com/trips.and.dips_/) - VENICE: Ca' Sagredo Hotel (Hilton Small Luxury hotel), Bacaro Food Tour, St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, Harry’s Bar (birthplace of the Bellini), Gondola rice, Rialto Bridge, Cannarigio neighborhood for dinner - ROME: Free Now (Uber equivalent), Hotel Babuino 181 (Hilton Small Luxury hotel), Spanish Steps, Ristorante Maccheroni, The Pantheon, Aperol Spritz, Palatine Hill, The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trattoria Luzzi, Ristorante al 34, The Vatican, St. Paul’s Basilica, Trevi Fountain, Trastevere vibrant fun neighborhood, - SORRENTO: Hilton Sorrento Palace, Capri, lunch at Hotel Syrene Capri, Ristorante Vela Bianca, Amalfi, Positano, Ischia island, Acqua Marina Seaside Restaurant at Hotel Admiral

We will always love you, Dolly! 🦋 In this special Kelsey Unpacked episode, I’m paying tribute to Dolly Parton by sharing everything I know about one of the most special places she created, Dollywood! If you’re thinking about visiting Dollywood soon, maybe even in Dolly’s memory, this is your Dollywood 101 guide. I’m sharing where to stay, DreamMore vs. HeartSong, the best rides for kids and thrill seekers, favorite foods, seasonal festivals, the Dolly Parton Experience, parking tips, what’s new at the park, and more. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Dollywood - Splash Country - Seasonal Festivals: I Will Always Love You Festival, Flower & Food Festival, Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, Harvest Festival, Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival - The Great Pumpkin LUMInights - Harvey’s Boo Bash! - Dollywood DreamMore Resort: whimsical, colorful, country-chic, Dolly vibes - Dollywood HeartSong Resort: rustic, lodgey, - TimeSaver Passes - Wildwood Grove: Big Bear Mountain, Dragonflier, Hidden Hollow (indoor playground), NightFlight Expedition - Country Fair - The Dollywood Express - Big Coasters: Lightening Rod, Thunderhead, Tennessee Tornado, Wild Eagle - Food at Dollywood: Grist Mill Cinnamon Bread, Hickory House BBQ, Aunt Granny’s, The Front Porch Cafe, Red’s Drive-In - The Dolly Parton Experience

Kyle is back for his fourth Trip Tales episode! After sharing about skiing in Quebec, Austria and Banff, he’s trading the slopes for the Grand Canyon. In May/June 2026, Kyle and his family of four spent eight days rafting through the Grand Canyon on a motorized rafting trip with Grand Canyon Expeditions. We talk about what it’s like to live completely off the grid for eight days, sleep under the stars beside the Colorado River, tackle rapids, hike to waterfalls and swimming holes, and cool off in the unbelievably turquoise Little Colorado River. Kyle also shares the logistics of packing, camping and bathroom breaks — plus the surprisingly gourmet meals, from Eggs Benedict to filet mignon, that made this rugged adventure a whole lot more luxurious than expected. Even Kyle, who admits he’s not much of a camper, came home saying he’d do the entire trip again in a heartbeat! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Grand Canyon Expeditions - Arizona Rafting Adventures - Start at Lee’s Ferry and end at Pierce Ferry - Little Colorado River - Deer Creek Falls and The Patio - Havasu Creek - Pumpkin Spring - Elves Chasm - Redwall Cavern - Las Vegas Bellagio Seafood Buffet

In this episode of Kelsey Unpacked, I’m sharing the exciting and sometimes surprisingly uncomfortable side of growing an audience. I'm talking about turning content creation into a real business and realizing that brands are actually willing to PAY you to do this. I’m taking you behind the scenes of an upcoming paid brand trip to Puerto Rico, including what the partnership covers, why saying yes felt a little scary, and why this opportunity feels like such a big milestone for me. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - To join KELSEY LIVE on Monday August 31st at 11AM CST: email kelsey@triptalespodcast.com and Venmo $39 to @Kelsey-Graves-1 - FAIR PLAY Book: https://amzlink.to/az0a5TP2LgJgt - FAIR PLAY Card Game: https://amzlink.to/az0zgy43Ugqno - Instagram and TikTok follower growth and monetization - Growing with Instagram Trial Reels

Heather joins Trip Tales from Westchester, New York, to share her family’s love for New Zealand - a place they’ve visited several times and love so much that they now have residency, with dreams of someday making it home. Most recently, Heather traveled to New Zealand in March 2026 with her husband and their two kids for an adventure-packed family trip through both the South and North Islands. We talk about breathtaking Queenstown and Wanaka, bungee jumping and canyon swings, Mount Cook, geothermal adventures, Hobbiton and those iconic Hobbit houses, beautiful beaches, playgrounds, hikes and so much more. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: New Zealand Residency Sky Couch on Air New Zealand North Island vs South Island Auckland Airport - VIP Assistance through airport Queenstown: Waterfront & Shopping District, Patagonia Chocolates & Ice Cream, TSS Earnslaw boat to Walter Peak Farm Tour (sheep, highland cows, etc), Shotover Jet, AJ Hackett Company (Kawarau Bridge Bungy: the original bungee jump), Kawarau Bungy Swing, Bathhouse Playground, Skyline Gondola and Luge, Fergburger, Cookie Time, Remarkables Park - Joe’s Garage restaurant Wanaka: Dinosaur Playground, Wild Wire Wanaka Via Feratta, the cinema, Rippon Winery, Roy’s Peak hike, Scroggin for coffee or brunch, Big Fig for lunch, Lake Bar, Black Peak gelato, Omarama Clay Cliffs Open Hotel Alert: https://openhotelalert.com/ Mount Cook: Mount Cook Lodge, Hermitage Hotel (brunch buffet), hiking (Hooker Valley Track), stargazing Lake Tekapo: Mount John Homestead, playground, feed the animals, farm tour Sumner Beach: Beach town outside of Christchurch, Cave Rock, Fire & Slice pizza restaurant Rotorua : Hell’s Gate, Geo-thermal area, mineral pools, hot springs, Redwood Forest Tree Walk Hobbiton: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, Green Dragon Pub The Coromandel Peninsula: Hahei, Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, Walnut Cottage Airbnb Matakana: Farmer’s Market, Action Ninja World Milford Sound Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

This week, I’m sharing a few CONFESSIONS! Some questionable habits, some unpopular opinions, and a few things I probably shouldn’t admit out loud. 😂 From my love of McDonald’s and hatred of the beach, to outsourcing my laundry, my true crime obsession, and more! Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Check out the Symphony app using my link: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey Get $10 OFF Your First Poplin Laundry Service Order: https://gopoplin.com/?referralId=iL5euzJWLUSwBfZVYDCG Get $40 OFF Mochi Health by using my referral code to join: 9T4WMV Link to join Mochi: https://app.joinmochi.com/eligibility?ptcode=9t4wmv

Amy and her husband celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary by taking their two girls, ages 8 and 4, on an almost two-week adventure through Paris, Switzerland and Milan in May 2026! Their family of four explored Paris, went to the top of the Eiffel Tower, spent a day at Disneyland Paris, then traveled by train to the Swiss Alps—where some of the most incredible mountaintop playgrounds became a highlight of the entire trip. They finished their European adventure in Milan with pasta making, iconic sights and, naturally, a few more playgrounds. Check out the Symphony app using my link: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Yoto Mini Kids Audio Book Players: https://amzlink.to/az0LxjyOTNNw5 - PARIS, FRANCE Air France – direct flight from Orlando to Paris Montmartre Sacré-Cœur Basilica Eiffel Tower Trocadéro – great Eiffel Tower photo spot Luxembourg Gardens: playground,carousel, and sailboat rentals Notre-Dame Cathedral Musée de l'Orangerie – Monet’s Water Lilies + children’s area Tuileries Gardens + playground - DISNEYLAND PARIS Sleeping Beauty Castle A Million Splashes of Colour Parade Disney Adventure World – World of Frozen Toy Story Land Rapunzel Tangled Spin - LAUTERBRUNNEN + SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND SBB Mobile App – helpful for navigating trains and transportation throughout Switzerland Lauterbrunnen Valley – bike rentals + biking through the valley Coop grocery store Imboden Bike Rentals Staubbach Falls Trümmelbach Falls – underground waterfalls Wengen – mountain village + seasonal marble runs Männlichen – Alpine Herdsman “Cow Playground” Holenstein – Treetop Playground + Alpine Horns Alpins in the Alps – helpful Switzerland travel resource Mürren – Intersport coffee shop + playground and trampoline Allmendhubel – Flower Playground + Flower Hike Gimmelwald – playground + Mountain Hostel Grindelwald Pfingstegg – playground, mountain coaster + Fly Line Bort Alpine Playground – snowplow-themed playground - MILAN, ITALY The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci Sforza Castle: Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pietà Pasta + gelato-making class OTTO – Chinatown restaurant Parco Sempione Duomo di Milano + rooftop Ratana – final dinner in Milan

Not for little ears. This episode is not intended for children. In this Kelsey Unpacked, I’m sharing some thoughts on getting back into the school-year routine, reflecting on the intensity of early motherhood, and unpacking my thoughts on the Lindsay Clancy trial. A short, personal episode about motherhood, mental load, and a case I haven’t been able to stop thinking about. Check out the Symphony app using my link: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879

Kelsey is recapping her family of five’s attraction-packed summer getaway to Chicago with kids in July 2026! In just three nights, they squeezed in SO much from Lollapalooza and a Cubs game at Wrigley Field to the American Girl Store, Millennium Park and The Bean, TILT at 360 CHICAGO, the Museum of Illusions, Navy Pier and Flyover Chicago. But this trip was about more than checking off Chicago attractions. Kelsey and Joe lived in Chicago for 10 years after college, so bringing their three kids back to explore their old neighborhoods, favorite spots and some of their sweetest memories made this quick summer getaway extra special. Kelsey's link to download the Symphony savings app: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Lollapalooza Chicago - American Girl Store Chicago - Hyatt House West Loop - Piccolo Sogno - Millenium Park: The Bean (Cloud Gate), Maggie Daley Park - Nancy's Pizza (West Loop) - Chicago Cubs - Stolen Saddle in Wrigleyville - Original Pancake House Chicago - Museum of Illusions - Top of the Hancock Building for Chicago 360 and TILT - Navy Pier: Flyover Chicago ride Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

What if you could earn travel points by saving money instead of spending it? In this episode of Kelsey Unpacked, I’m joined by Symphony co-founder James Berry and COO Jennifer Styles to talk about the groundbreaking new app that is completely flipping the traditional points game on its head. We’re used to earning rewards by opening credit cards and spending money on travel, dining and everyday purchases. Symphony created an entirely new way to earn by rewarding you for saving instead. Your money can earn up to 5% APY, and you get to choose whether your rewards are paid in cash, travel points or a combination of both. We unpack how Symphony works, why it was created, how your points can grow alongside your savings and what users can expect from its upcoming airline, hotel and travel partners. I’ve already downloaded the app and funded my own account, and I was so impressed by how simple, fun and beautifully designed it is. This is such an exciting option for anyone who wants to grow their savings while also working toward future travel. This episode is sponsored by Symphony. LINK TO SYMPHONY: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Kelsey's Symphony Link: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey - Travel points and miles - American Express - Delta - Airport Lounges - Financial Literacy - 5% APY Savings Account

TikTok told Laura that Amsterdam was one of the most toddler-friendly cities in Europe, so she decided to find out for herself! In August 2025, Laura and her husband traveled from New Brunswick, Canada, to Amsterdam with their 2.5-year-old daughter for a full week of family adventures. And they were pleasantly surprised by just how much the city offered for little kids! Laura shares how they created a toddler-friendly rhythm with morning activities, afternoon naps and plenty of time for parks, playgrounds and snacks. From the zoo and NEMO Science Museum to biking through Vondelpark, exploring kid-friendly museums, cruising the canals and tasting their way through local markets, this trip proves that Amsterdam can be an incredible European destination - even with a toddler in tow! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - My dog's favorite cheese bones https://amzlink.to/az0E1x241YPSw - Laura's favorite travel stroller https://amzlink.to/az0PlFvKKApuj - Halifax Airport - "Welcome Pickups" Transfer Company - The Concert Hotel - Vondelpark - Attractions included in the iAmsterdam City Card/Pass: ARTIS Amsterdam Zoo, Moco Museum (modern art), NEMO Science Museum, STRAAT (Street Art Museum), Rijksmuseum, National Maritime Museum, Bike Rental - Restaurants/Food: Cobra Cafe, Groot Melkhuis, Bakers & Roasters, Fabel Friet for Dutch fries - Pizza Canal Cruise - Albert Heijn grocery stores - DAY TRIPS: Zaanse Schans, Leiden (Paco Ciao speakeasy-type restaurant), Delft - NDSM Wharf & Ferry (free) - Pancake Boat Tour - Sarphatipark - parkrun - Max Euwe Centre Chess Museum - De Pijp neighborhood: Albert Cuyp Markt for Stroopwafels from Rudy's and Kibbeling fish bites Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

I’m sharing the simple list technique that’s helping me feel more accomplished and less overwhelmed: separating what I truly have to do each day from the non-priorities. Plus, I’m talking about Theo of Golden —the sweetest, most heartwarming book everyone is loving! Mentioned in this episode: - Inflatable Travel Mat: https://amzlink.to/az0wCGVzlVgpS - Amazon Index Cards: https://amzlink.to/az0Tzrefcy1tn - Theo of Golden: https://amzlink.to/az0FbdcJ2tXpd Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879

Alaina ( @molars.and.miles ) is an Ohio mom of three, dentist, and expert trip planner who takes an annual couples trip with her husband and another couple. After traveling to 10 countries together, their latest adventure took them all the way to South Africa in April 2025—and this may have been their most unforgettable trip yet! In just eight days, they experienced three completely different sides of South Africa: vibey Cape Town with its incredible restaurants and breathtaking scenery, a dreamy night in the Franschhoek wine country, and a thrilling luxury safari where they saw the Big Five. Alaina shares how the safari experience actually works—from early-morning game drives and animals roaming just feet away to sunset happy hours in the bush, cozy lodge dinners, and the excitement of tracking lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Add in beautiful hotels, unforgettable meals, a wine tram, and plenty of spontaneous travel magic, and this trip was truly a foodie and adventure lover’s dream. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Link to Trip Tales podcast on Apple: Mentioned in this episode: - Alaina's Instagram: www.instagram.com/molars.and.miles and website: www.molarsandmiles.com - CAPETOWN: Cape Grace Hotel, Table Mountain, Time Out Market, Chapman's Peak drive, Boulders Beach, Simon's Town, "Just Mich" Tour Guide, Groot Constantia Wine Farm, Chef's Warehouse, Marble - FRANSCHHOEK: Babylonstoren (Cape Dutch Farm), Leeu Estates, Wine Tram - SAFARI: Hoedspruit Airport, Greater Kruger National Park, Kapama Private Game Lodge, Safari Game Drives, the Big Five Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

I’m sharing the filming, editing and posting strategies that helped me grow from 19K to 66K followers after leaning into travel content. From iPhone settings and CapCut tips to hooks, captions and calls to action, these are the simple things that have helped my travel Reels reach more people. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - H.O.P.E. - Help One Person Everyday - Niche down - iPhone Video Settings: 4K and 60 Frames Per Second (FPS) - Video editing app: CapCut - Hook + Keep their attention + CTA (Call to Action) - LinkDM and ManyChat

Kelsey and Joe are back from their couples trip to France - and Joe is joining at the end for the rapid fire questions! Hear about their magical night in Paris, watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle, exploring Montmartre, and squeezing as much as possible into less than 24 hours before heading into the peaceful French countryside. Then it’s on to Chablis for vineyard views, charming villages, a dreamy château, plenty of wine tastings, and a much-needed chance to slow down together. If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - My Capital One Venture X Referral Link: https://i.capitalone.com/JMxfRZaqs - Chablis, France - Chateau de la Resle - Air France Premium Economy - Points and Miles - Aer Lingus - Le Parisis Hotel - JFK: The TWA Hotel and Lounge, Connie, The Paris Cafe, Capital One Lounge - EU EES Entry Exit System - Montmarte: Sacre-Coeur - Gare de Lyon - Joigny: La Station - Auxerre: Le Maison Fort, Le Sub - Chablis: William Fèvre (tasting room), Jean-Marc Brocard (vineyard), Domaine Long-Depaquit (chateau), Domaine Laroche (cave tour) - Petite Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru, Grand Cru

The night before our France trip, unexpected travel anxiety and mom guilt hit me hard - and then our flight was canceled! I’m unpacking what it felt like to leave the kids during a very busy week, plus the much happier story of my first airport lounge experience. Spoiler: I’m officially ruined. If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Chablis - Chateau de la Resle - Capital One Lounge JFK - Air France Lounge - TWA Hotel and Airplane Louge

In this episode of Trip Tales, Kelsey chats with Kayla, a mom of three from the Atlanta area, about her family of five’s June 2025 adventure to Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. With kids ages 12, 10, and 7, Kayla and her husband used points, miles, and Southwest Companion Passes to make this bucket-list national park trip more affordable. They flew into Fresno, explored Yosemite Valley by bike, hiked to waterfalls, stayed at the family-friendly Tenaya Lodge, wandered through the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, and then road-tripped on to Lake Tahoe for lake swims, kayaking, Monkey Rock, and even a few bear sightings. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Hyatt Place Fresno, CA - YOSEMITE: South Entrance, Yosemite Valley, Curry Village, Vernal Falls, Mirror Lake, Village Grill, Lower Yosemite Falls, El Capitan Field, Glacier Point, Twala Meadows - Mariposa Grove: The California Tunnel, the Grizzly Tree - Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite - 4th Grade National Park Pass - Tenaya Lake - Mono Lake (Alkali Flies) - Lake Tahoe: Hotel Becket Best Western Signature, Monkey Rock, Baldwin Beach Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.