A Life Less Ordinary

Discover Spain’s stunning Costa del Sol in this episode of A Life Less Ordinary, hosted by Terrie Dean and Harry Reif of The Wishing Well.

While many travelers know Costa del Sol for its beautiful Mediterranean beaches, Harry takes you beyond the shoreline to uncover the region’s hidden treasures. Explore the historic streets of Málaga, the dramatic cliffside town of Ronda, charming whitewashed Andalusian villages, renowned wineries, olive oil estates, and unforgettable culinary experiences ranging from beachside seafood to Michelin-starred dining. 

Learn how private guides, local connections, and im...

Unlock one of the most powerful secrets in travel planning in this episode of A Life Less Ordinary as The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif continue their Keys to a Great Vacation series with a discussion on the importance of travel connections.

Fresh from Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, they share how relationships with hotel owners, general managers, concierges, cruise executives, and tourism partners around the world create extraordinary experiences that go far beyond booking a flight and hotel.

From VIP welcomes in Milan and exclusive access in Paris...

Unlock the hidden world of luxury travel as The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif continue their Keys to a Great Vacation series with a deep dive into private memberships and exclusive hotel experiences.

Discover how the world’s finest hotels are redefining luxury by offering more than beautiful rooms, providing access to private clubs, VIP lounges, local experts, hidden venues, and once-in-a-lifetime connections. From Savannah’s Hotel Bardo and New York’s Casa Cipriani to exclusive London clubs and luxury suites in Las Vegas, learn how the right travel advisor can open doors...

What transforms an ordinary vacation into an unforgettable journey? In this episode of A Life Less Ordinary, The Wishing Well's travel experts, Terrie Dean and Harry Reif, continue their Keys to a Great Vacation series with a fascinating look at why the hotel is never just a hotel.

Discover how the right hotel can unlock exclusive experiences, from private access to the Palace of Versailles and Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens to hidden entrances, luxury concierge services, and personalized touches that elevate every trip.

Learn the value of shoulder season travel, in...

What transforms a vacation from ordinary to extraordinary?

In this episode of A Life Less Ordinary, The Wishing Well's travel experts, Terrie Dean and Harry Reif, explore one of the most important secrets to planning an unforgettable trip: choosing a landmark that inspires you and building your entire travel experience around it. 

From the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Great Wall of China to Vatican City, the Taj Mahal, the Statue of Liberty, Machu Picchu, and the Pyramids of Giza, discover why iconic destinations capture our imagination and how they can s...

In this episode, The Wishing Well's luxury travel experts, Terrie Dean and Harry Reif, explore what it truly means to *live your best life* through unforgettable, deeply personal travel experiences. Fresh off a remarkable Great Lakes luxury cruise, Harry shares a vivid, first‑hand journey aboard the Victory II, revealing how refined small‑ship cruising can transform not just how you travel — but how you see the world.

From Toronto to Niagara Falls, Cleveland, Detroit, Mackinac Island, Escanaba, Milwaukee, and Chicago, Harry recounts a week filled with handcrafted cuisine, historic ports, immersive excursions, and the kind of old‑world el...

In this powerful episode, the Wishing Well's Terrie Dean marks the show’s sixth anniversary with a deep, honest exploration of the modern travel experience — the good, the bad, and the beautifully imperfect. Drawing from over 40 years in the industry, Terry reveals how today’s travelers are breaking free from ordinary tourism and embracing intentional, meaningful journeys that reconnect them with wonder, curiosity, and the world itself.


You’ll hear how slow travel, astrotourism, and immersive local stays are reshaping global exploration — and why travelers are choosing sleeper trains, dark‑sky destinations, and boutique community‑based lodging over crowded h...

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of A Life Less Ordinary, the Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif explore the transformative connection between travel and well-being.

From relieving stress and boosting creativity to strengthening emotional resilience, we unpack the science-backed benefits of getting away—and why travel is more than just a vacation. Inspired by real-life health challenges, heartfelt stories, and expert insights from organizations like the NIH, AARP, and Make-A-Wish, this episode highlights how travel can restore hope, renew energy, and bring meaning back into our lives. You’ll also hear movin...

The Wishing Well's Harry Reif discusses why travel is the ultimate Father’s Day gift in this inspiring episode of A Life Less Ordinary.

From unforgettable multi-generational trips to bucket-list adventures like Normandy, Route 66, African safaris, and luxury cruises, we explore how creating shared memories beats any traditional gift. Whether your dad loves history, adventure, sports, or nostalgia, get expert travel ideas, planning tips, and destination inspiration to make this year’s celebration truly meaningful. Listen for heartwarming stories, insider advice, and the best ways to turn miles into lifelong memories with dad.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif deliver a true master class in group travel.

From family reunions and multi‑generational vacations to corporate trips, cruises, and escorted tours, this episode breaks down how to plan successful group travel without stress.

Learn how to define your group, choose the right destination and timing, manage budgets and expectations, avoid common mistakes, and understand the critical role of a group leader. Whether you’re the Pied Piper organizing the trip or someone considering joining one, this episode is packed with expert insight, real-world stori...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean explores the growing movement of impact travel—luxury travel experiences that actively give back to the destinations you visit. From biodiversity restoration in Scotland and conservation efforts in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, to marine protection in Thailand and the Caribbean, this episode highlights how travel can support wildlife, protect ecosystems, and empower local communities.

We also dive into powerful stories of education and community engagement in Africa, where safari lodges partner with local villages to support children’s learning and conservation leadership. Finally, we examine how travel plays a role...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif journey to some of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations.

This episode explores the magic of nature at its most untamed—from the iconic Galápagos Islands and the legendary safaris of Tanzania and Kenya’s Serengeti, to Alaska’s remote Tutka Bay Lodge and India’s Ranthambhore National Park, home to majestic tigers. We continue south to Antarctica’s icy wilderness and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where encounters with silverback gorillas offer one of the planet’s most profound wildlife experiences. Perfect for adventurers, conse...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif explore the major shift redefining high‑end travel right now.

We explore how seeking meaningful experiences can transform every journey. This episode dives into the power of purposeful travel as we visit seven unforgettable destinations—Riga, Latvia; Cornwall, England; Barcelona; Deer Valley, Utah; the Philippines; Kenya; and the Dolomites in Italy.

From cultural immersion to nature‑driven reflection, we unpack how each place offers its own path to deeper connection, personal growth, and authentic discovery. Perfect for travelers who want more than a getaway and are...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif explore the major shift redefining high‑end travel right now.

This episode breaks down the five trends transforming what luxury means today: The Villa Era and the rise of ultra‑private stays, Yachting as the new frontier of bespoke exploration, Wellness Elevated with transformative mind‑body experiences, Set‑Jetting inspired by film and TV worlds, and Legacy Travel focused on meaning, memory, and multigenerational connection.

We unpack why these trends matter, how they’re reshaping traveler expectations, and what they reveal about the future of luxury e...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif explore why hitting the road is one of the healthiest choices you can make.

This episode dives into the mental, emotional, and even neurological benefits of exploring new places—from boosting creativity and reducing stress to strengthening resilience and expanding your sense of self. We unpack the science behind why travel shifts your mindset, improves well‑being, and helps you reconnect with what matters most. Perfect for curious travelers, wellness seekers, and anyone craving a deeper understanding of why wanderlust feels so good.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif explore what it means to travel in a world shaped by constant global headlines.

In this episode, we dive into how international events—from geopolitical tensions to climate news and cultural shifts—are reshaping the way we move across the planet. We unpack how travelers can stay informed, adapt plans, and still experience meaningful, responsible journeys even as the world changes in real time. Perfect for curious globetrotters who want to understand not just where to go, but how global stories influence every step of the journ

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

In this episode we explore the world of high-end travel built around the planet’s most exclusive events. From the runway magic of Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks to the star-studded spectacle of the Met Gala and the electric energy of the iHeartRadio Music Awards, we break down how to craft unforgettable journeys centered on these elite experiences.

Discover insider tips, VIP access strategies, and the destinations, hotels, and moments that turn a trip into a on...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss solo travel—why it’s booming, how to plan your first trip, and what to really expect on the road.

We cover the mindset shift, picking a destination, building a beginner budget, where to stay, safety best practices, how to meet people without feeling awkward, packing smart, and classic first‑timer mistakes to avoid.

You’ll leave with practical steps, confidence, and a checklist to make your first solo trip not just doable—but unforgettable.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Celebrate love and adventure in this episode, where we explore the world’s most romantic Valentine’s getaways. Discover why iconic destinations like Paris, Venice, Santorini, and Bora Bora continue to top couples’ travel lists.

We also dive into unforgettable luxury romantic escapes in the U.S., including the charm of Charleston, SC, the vineyard elegance of Napa Valley, and the cozy alpine luxury of Aspen, CO.

Whether you’re planning a passionate Valentine’s retreat...

In this captivating second‑part episode, of When Luxury Whispers, The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean sits down with Rebecca McArthur, Director of Travel Industry Sales for Marriott International’s Luxury & Premium Brands across the Caribbean and Latin America.

Together, they dive deeper into the art of refined travel, using Terrie’s recent visit to Punta Mita, Mexico as a backdrop for an engaging conversation on understated luxury, elevated service, and meaningful destination experiences.

Gain insider insights into what defines modern luxury hospitality in one of the world’s most exclusive resort destinations, how Marri...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

When luxury whispers, you listen. In this episode, we slip into two of Mexico’s most coveted oceanfront escapes: The St. Regis Punta Mita and Siari, a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve in Riviera Nayarit. We unpack the kind of low‑key indulgence that puts privacy, sense‑of‑place, and intuitive service above flash—think calm surf, natural textures, thoughtful design, and experiences curated to your pace.

You’ll hear how St. Regis Punta Mita delivers timeless elegance with beach‑to‑...

Join The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif for this week's Hot Deals! 

And, we explore how the latest government shutdown is impacting air travel—from flight delays to TSA staffing—and how both the travel industry and everyday travelers are adapting. 

Listen for expert insights, real-world stories, and a look at the unexpected silver linings that emerge during turbulent times. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a travel enthusiast, this episode offers hope, resilience, and practical tips for navigating uncertainty.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Get ready to pack your bags and embrace the festive spirit! In this episode, we explore the best holiday travel destinations for the season—both international hotspots and domestic gems. Whether you're dreaming of snowy European cities, tropical escapes, or cozy U.S. towns full of holiday charm, we've got travel tips, destination highlights, and insider recommendations to help you plan the perfect getaway.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

In Rollin’ on the River — Part 2, we dive deeper into the world of river cruising. Learn what sets Uniworld, Avalon Waterways, and Tauck apart—from boutique ships and gourmet dining to immersive excursions along Europe’s most iconic rivers. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or looking for insider tips, this episode is your ultimate guide to choosing the perfect river cruise experience.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Ready to trade the open seas for scenic waterways? In this episode, we dive into the world of river cruises—what makes them unique compared to ocean voyages, what you can expect onboard, and why they’re becoming a favorite for travelers seeking culture and comfort.

We also break down two of the biggest names in the industry: Viking River Cruises vs. AMA Waterways. Which one offers the best experience for your next adventure? We've got insi...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Think you’ve heard it all when it comes to travel tips? Think again! In Part 2 of our travel hacks series, we dive even deeper into expert-level travel strategies that most seasoned globetrotters miss. From genius packing techniques and hidden money-saving tricks to unexpected ways to upgrade your travel experience, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you travel smarter.

Whether you're planning a weekend road trip, a business journey, or a bucket-list international va...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Think you know all the best travel tips? Think again! In this episode, we share unique travel hacks and insider advice that even seasoned travelers often overlook. From clever packing strategies and money-saving tricks to unexpected ways to make your journey smoother, these tips will change the way you travel.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a big international adventure, these practical and surprising travel ideas will help you save time, reduce stress, an...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Dreaming of an Alaska adventure? In this episode, we uncover the best ways to experience the Last Frontier—one of the world’s greatest wilderness destinations. From scenic road trips through Alaska’s rugged landscapes to luxury train journeys on the Alaska Railroad, guided tours through national parks, and unforgettable Alaska cruises along the Inside Passage, we break down the options to help you plan the perfect trip.

Learn the pros and cons of each travel style...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean discusses this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Ready to plan your next trip around the world’s most iconic sporting events? In this episode, we explore how major competitions can become the ultimate centerpiece of your travel experience. From the FIFA World Cup in North America and the Winter Olympics in Italy to the Ryder Cup in New York, the Super Bowl, the World Series, and the NCAA Final Four, we share tips and insights on how to turn these events into unforgettable journeys.

Discover the best destinations, cultural hi...

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

In this episode we continue to explore the top culinary and food tour companies of 2025. Discover cultivted global gastronomy adventures—cruising cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this episode offers insights into the best ways to taste the world!

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss group travel and Harry's recent trip to Canada for a once in a lifetime experiemce on the Rocky Mountaineer!

Harry reflects on his journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, aboard the world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer train. You’ll hear the rumble of the tracks, the whisper of the wind through the pines, and the stories of the places and people that make this journey so unforgettable.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean discusses this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Embark on a flavorful journey in this episode, where we explore the top culinary and food tour companies of 2025. Discover how Trafalgar, Intrepid Travel, and Backroads Travel are redefining global gastronomy adventures—from street food safaris to gourmet getaways. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this episode offers insights into the best ways to taste the world!

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean discusses this week's travel news and Hot Deals!


Looking for a getaway that doesn't involve sticky humidity or scorching sidewalks? In this travel-packed episode, we journey to four stunning destinations where sweater weather rules even in summer: the majestic Canadian Rockies, the lush landscapes of Ireland, the dramatic ice-covered vistas of Iceland, and the wild beauty of Alaska. We dive into what makes each of these spots perfect for beating the heat — from glacier hiking and scenic train rides to coastal escapes and cool cultural gems.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean discusses this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Plus, we'll celebrate Independence Day with a twist! In this episode, we explore unique 4th of July destinations in the U.S. that offer international vibes, from alpine-style mountain towns to tropical island escapes. Perfect for travelers craving cultural flavor without leaving the country.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean discusses this week's travel news and Hot Deals!

Plus, step behind the scenes of five-star getaways in this episode, where we shine a light on the world’s most discreet travel professionals: butlers. We explore the elegance, precision, and heartfelt service that elevate the guest experience in high-end hotels and resorts.

Whether you're a luxury travel aficionado or just love a good story from behind the velvet rope, this episode delivers rich insights and unforgettable tales from the people who make indulgence feel effortless.

The Wishing Well's Harry Reif discusses this week's travel news and answers your travel questions!

In this episode, we challenge the predictable routine of coffee mugs and neckties by showcasing unique experiential gifts that create lifelong memories. From breathtaking sunrise hikes in Yosemite to spontaneous adventures in the Carolinas, learn how travel can deepen bonds and transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Ideal for families seeking to celebrate dad with unforgettable journeys, this episode serves as your guide to thoughtful, experience-based gift ideas that go far beyond the typical Father's Day fare. Listen for inspiring travel...

The Wishing Well's Harry Reif discusses this week's travel news and answers your travel questions!

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and answer your travel questions!

In this episode of our Small Town-Big Luxury series, host Terrie Dean is joined by Steve Lassman, Vice President of Villa Product and Agency Relations for World Travel Holdings' luxury villa division.

Discover the allure of high-end vacation rentals, explore stunning properties, and learn about the unique experiences that make these villas truly exceptional. Whether you're dreaming of your next getaway or simply curious about luxury travel, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean and Harry Reif discuss this week's travel news and Hot Deals!


Join us as we continue our Small Town-Big Luxury series with an exciting new episode that unveils the adventurous side of luxury travel. In this episode we explore how luxury isn't just about sophisticated properties but also about tailor-made adventure experiences that leave no upscale amenity overlooked. Discover the thrill of custom adventures with our inspirational Virtuoso partner, Backroads. Whether you're seeking a unique travel experience or simply curious about the luxurious yet adventurous side of travel, t...