Cheryl's Travel Blueprint
Welcome to Cheryl's Travel Blueprint! I’m a former Spanish teacher turned travel advisor, passionate about curating unforgettable experiences. My expertise lies in European adventures (with a special love for Spain), cruising, and all-inclusive Caribbean getaways. I specialize in creating tailored trips for families, multi-generational groups, and teachers—whether they’re traveling solo, with colleagues, or leading student groups. In this podcast, we celebrate the joy of travel, uncover hidden gems, share practical tips and tricks, and embrace the spirit of adventure. Each episode features inspiring conversations with fascinating guests from all walks of life as they share their unique travel...
You Don’t Need Spain… Until This Happens to You
Spain Isn’t Just a Destination… It’s a Mirror
What if the most meaningful part of travel isn’t what you see… but who you become?
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl shares a quiet, powerful moment from a small plaza in Toledo—one that sparked a deeper question many of us avoid: Who am I when I’m not performing for everyone else?
From the Camino de Santiago to the Sierra Nevada mountains, and even the layered architecture of Spain’s cities, this episode explores how travel can strip away distract...
What Happens When Travel Doesn’t Work for You? (The Truth About Accessible Travel)
🎙️ When Travel Doesn’t Work for Everyone: The Reality of Accessibility with Mike Clapper
What happens when a dream trip reveals a problem no one planned for?
In this powerful episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl sits down with accessibility advocate Mike Clapper from Able2Global to uncover the hidden gaps in the travel industry—and why accessibility is about so much more than ramps and elevators.
From a shocking moment on a cruise in Iceland to a broader conversation about inclusion, this episode challenges how we think about travel—and who it’s...
7 Travel Mistakes That Ruin Your Vacation Before It Even Starts
7 Travel Planning Mistakes That Quietly Ruin Your Vacation (And How to Avoid Them)
Many travelers believe the stress of a trip begins at the airport.
But in reality, travel stress usually begins during the planning phase.
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, I break down seven travel planning mistakes that quietly sabotage vacations before the trip even begins. These mistakes are incredibly common — and once you recognize them, they’re surprisingly easy to avoid.
From chasing the cheapest deal to trying to see too much in too little time, these...
When Travel Stops Catering to YOU
Episode Overview
What happens when travel stops catering to you?
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl speaks with author and long-distance hiker G. Scott Graham about his experience hiking the legendary GR20 Trail on the rugged Mediterranean island of Corsica.
Often called one of the toughest long-distance hikes in Europe, the GR20 isn’t just physically demanding—it’s culturally different in ways many American travelers don’t expect. There are no luxury accommodations, no “customer is always right” mentality, and no shortcuts just because you paid more.
Instead, hiker...
Bridget Jones Goes Backpacking? A Raw Travel Story
What would it take for you to walk away from stability, sell almost everything you own, and leave with nothing but a backpack, a small budget, and courage?
In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Candace MacPhie, a writer whose nonfiction books chronicle a year-long backpacking journey in her late 20s—a journey that began after profound grief and a deep need to rediscover herself. Candace traveled in the 1990s, long before Google Maps, online reviews, or instant connection, and her stories are as raw and real as travel gets: funny, heartbreaking, romantic, and deeply human—often desc...
The Continental Drifter: A Journey of Intentional Travel
The Continental Drifter: A Journey of Intentional Travel
What does it really mean to travel intentionally?
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, I sit down with travel writer, speaker, and self-described “continental drifter,” Ralph Velasco, to explore bucket list travel, mindful exploration, solopreneurship, and building a meaningful second act.
This isn’t about racing through destinations or collecting passport stamps. It’s about slowing down, engaging your senses, and designing a lifestyle that allows travel to shape who you are — not just where you’ve been.
If you’ve ever wo...
From Bed & Breakfasts to Savvy Travel: How One Entrepreneur Is Changing Travel
🎙️ Episode Show Notes
Episode Description
What if the place you stay could shape your entire travel experience—or even determine whether your trip feels stressful or seamless?
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl sits down with Eric, a seasoned hospitality entrepreneur whose career spans bed & breakfasts, boutique inns, vacation rental technology, and now a bold new approach to booking travel stays.
Together, they explore how hospitality has shifted from being relationship-driven to algorithm-driven—and why many travelers are starting to push back. From hidden fees and platfor...
Volunteer Abroad the Ethical Way: How Globe Aware Works in 25+ Countries
Show Notes: Ethical Volunteer Travel with Kimberly Haley-Coleman (Globe Aware)
Travel can be more than a getaway—it can be a catalyst for connection, cultural understanding, and real impact. In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl Johnson sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder and executive director of Globe Aware, a nonprofit leading short-term, culturally respectful volunteer service programs in 25+ countries.
Kimberly shares how she went from global finance and tech to building one of the most structured, accessible models for ethical service travel—helping busy professionals and families serve responsibly while gaining deeper perspe...
Sip & Tell: Wine, Travel, and the Art of Pairing Everything
🍷 Episode Show Notes
Sip & Tell: Wine, Travel & Connection with Maria “The Wine Blonde” Valetta
Wine doesn’t have to feel intimidating—and this episode proves it. 🍇✈️
In this conversation, Cheryl sits down with Maria Valetta, better known as Maria The Wine Blonde, to talk about wine as a gateway to travel, culture, connection, and unforgettable experiences.
Maria is a certified sommelier, global traveler, Vegas food-and-wine insider, published author, and wine educator known for making wine approachable, fun, and unintimidating. Together, we sip, swirl, and explore how wine can help us slow down, connect more...
Travel Trends 2026: Asia’s Luxury Boom & the Global Train Renaissance
Travel Trends 2026: Asia’s Luxury Boom & the Train Renaissance
Travel isn’t just bouncing back — it’s being rerouted.
In this Travel Trends update, we explore two powerful shifts shaping how people are traveling heading into 2026. Long-haul confidence is returning with a surge in interest across the Asia-Pacific region, while closer to the ground, train travel is stepping into the spotlight as a smarter, more seamless alternative to short-haul flights.
Together, these trends reveal a traveler who values ease, experience, and intention over speed alone.
In this episode, we cover:
Why Asia...Why Custom Travel Is the New Luxury | Insider Tips from Avanti Destinations
Custom Travel Is the New Luxury: Inside Avanti Destinations with Gina Bang
What does custom travel really mean—and why is it becoming the new definition of luxury?
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl sits down with Gina Bang, Sales & Marketing Manager at Avanti Destinations, to explore how personalized, immersive travel experiences are reshaping the way we see the world.
With over 22 years at Avanti and more than 40 years of company experience behind her, Gina shares insider insights into how custom itineraries are designed, how travelers can avoid overcrowded destinations, and...
From Fear to Freedom: The Truth About Solo Female Travel
Solo Female Travel: From Fear to Freedom with Amanda Black
Have you ever dreamed of taking a trip completely on your own—only to talk yourself out of it?
In this inspiring episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl Johnson sits down with Amanda Black, founder of the Solo Female Traveler Network, the world’s largest global community of women who travel solo.
This conversation reframes solo female travel—not as something risky or lonely—but as an act of courage, freedom, healing, and connection.
Amanda shares how grief led her to her fir...
What Luxury Travel Really Looks Like in 2026 (Hint: It’s Not Just 5-Star Hotels)
🧭 Show Notes
Luxury travel isn’t just about five-star hotels—it’s about expert planning, trusted partnerships, and thoughtful details that turn a trip into an unforgettable experience.
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl sits down with Francisco Rello, Business Development Manager at Classic Vacations, to pull back the curtain on what really elevates a vacation—from VIP hotel recognition to rising global travel trends and the power of working with a travel advisor.
With nearly a decade in the travel industry (and a background as a Disney Cast Member!), Francisco sha...
The People Who Changed How I Travel (and Teach)
🧭 Episode Description
Some trips change what you see—but some people change how you see the world.
In this heartfelt episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl is joined by three longtime friends and fellow educators—Ale, Loida, and Victor—for a powerful conversation about a student exchange program that transformed far more than itineraries.
Together, they reflect on building a people-first, homestay exchange between the U.S. and Spain—one rooted in trust, curiosity, and genuine connection rather than agencies or transactions. What began as a professional collaboration became a decade-long partnership that reshaped...
How One Student Trip Can Change a Life | Youth Exchange Collective
One Trip. A Bigger World. | Launching Youth Exchange Collective
What happens when a student steps off a plane into a country they’ve only seen in textbooks—and realizes their world just got bigger?
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl is joined by Alej, a former colleague and educator, and Sarah, a former student whose life was transformed by a high school exchange experience. Together, they reflect on the trips that shaped their lives and announce the launch of Youth Exchange Collective, a new initiative dedicated to making intern...
Why the Gift of Travel Is the Best Present You’ll Ever Give
Episode Overview
What’s the most meaningful gift you’ve ever received? Chances are, it wasn’t something wrapped in a box. In this episode, Cheryl and Brittany dive into the gift of travel—not just as a vacation, but as a life-changing experience that shapes who we are.
From standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon or climbing the pyramids of Teotihuacan, to multi-generational trips and student exchanges that transform classrooms into the real world, this conversation is all about why experiences matter more than things—and how travel creates memories that last a lifetime.<...
Inside Jamaica: Culture, History & Hidden Gems You Won’t Find in a Brochure
Inside Jamaica — Culture, Resilience & Hidden Gems with Dian Holland
Have you ever visited a place that immediately felt like home?
In today’s episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, we step beyond Jamaica’s famous beaches and all-inclusive resorts to uncover the heart, history, flavor, and spirit of the island. 🇯🇲✨
We’re joined by someone who knows Jamaica better than anyone: Dian Holland, District Sales Manager for the Jamaica Tourist Board. With 47 years representing her island home, she brings unmatched insight, passion, and stories you won’t find in any brochure.
From the island’s...
Life at 30,000 Feet: Flight Attendant Secrets with Dave
Ever wondered what life looks like from the other side of the beverage cart? In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Dave, a seasoned flight attendant who’s seen it all — from mid-air marriage proposals to unexpected passenger surprises. Together, they pull back the curtain on what really happens at 30,000 feet.
Dave shares his candid insights about in-flight life, passenger etiquette, travel mishaps, and the changing airline industry. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your first big trip, this episode will make you see air travel in a whole new light.
💬 In This Episode...
Adults-Only Cruising, Reimagined: Inside Virgin Voyages with Paige
Episode summary
Picture this: champagne in hand, sea terrace hammock swaying, no buffets, no dress codes—just adults-only freedom and elevated fun. In this episode, Cheryl welcomes Paige, Sales Manager at Virgin Voyages, to unpack what makes the line a true disruptor: specialty dining included (no upcharges), fast Wi-Fi, cheeky entertainment, curated wellness, the iconic red hammocks, and destinations that range from Miami & San Juan to Europe—and soon, Alaska. We talk cabins and “Shake for Champagne,” sustainability touches (no single-use plastic bottles), Bimini Beach Club perks, solo-traveler meetups, and how Virgin delivers real value without the “nickel-and-diming.” If you’ve wo...
Skip the Crowds: Why Second-City Travel Is the Future of Authentic Exploration
🧭 Episode Summary
What if the most authentic travel experiences aren’t found in postcard-perfect capitals—but in the overlooked cities where culture lives, breathes, and surprises you at every turn?
In this episode of Cheryl’s Travel Blueprint, Cheryl Johnson invites you to see the world differently through the lens of second-city travel—choosing destinations that don’t make every headline but hold every bit of heart.
From the medieval charm of Girona to the calm beauty of Zurich, Cheryl shares her personal stories, practical insights, and an exclusive travel deal that makes exploring bey...
The Art of Slow Travel: How to Experience More by Exploring Less
What if the most revolutionary act of travel isn’t how many stamps you collect in your passport—but how deeply you experience a single destination?
In this episode of Cheryl's Travel Blueprint, Cheryl Johnson invites you to slow down, stay awhile, and see travel as more than a checklist. From wandering through Puerto Rico’s lush El Yunque rainforest to connecting with locals over home-cooked meals, Cheryl explores how slow travel transforms not just your itinerary, but your mindset.
Learn how this approach supports sustainability, saves money, and brings authentic connections to life—whether you’re s...
Inside the Travel Advisor’s Playbook: Deals, Destinations & Crisis Control
🧭 Episode Summary
Behind every seamless vacation is a travel advisor who’s navigated storms — both literal and metaphorical. In this episode, Cheryl and co-host Brittany Johnson sit down with Mark and Lisa Hale, seasoned travel professionals with over 35 years of experience, to reveal what really goes on behind the scenes of the travel industry.
From the myths about travel advisors and the perks of using one, to evolving travel trends, destination deals, and post-pandemic shifts — this episode pulls back the curtain on what it takes to turn dream vacations into real-life memories.
You’ll discover...
Beyond Words: Transformative Power of Bilingual Education and Cultural Immersion
Episode Overview
Host Cheryl Johnson explores the transformative power of language learning with her children, Brittany and Alexander Johnson, sharing their experiences with Spanish immersion education and international travel.
Featured Guests
Brittany JohnsonAlexander JohnsonKey Themes
Importance of early language educationCultural immersion experiencesBenefits of bilingualismPersonal growth through language learningInternational travel as an educational toolMemorable Moments
First language immersion trip to MexicoBreakthrough moment at Fantasia 2000 movieSummers spent in SpainChallenges and triumphs of learning SpanishLanguage Learning Insights
Starting language education earlyOvercoming fear of making mistakesCultural understanding through...Beyond Textbooks: How One Semester in Italy Changed Everything
Episode Overview
A deep dive into the life-changing experience of studying abroad in Rome, featuring a candid conversation between Cheryl Johnson and her son Alexander about cultural immersion, personal growth, and the magic of international education.
Guest
Alexander Johnson (Former Study Abroad Student)Key Themes
Study abroad experiencesCultural immersionItalian culture and lifestyleStudent travel insightsPersonal growth through international educationMemorable Moments
Unexpected cultural discoveriesAuthentic Italian food experiencesNavigating life in a foreign countryChallenges and triumphs of international studyHighlighted Destinations
RomeMilanTrastevereBlue Mosque (Turkey)Italian countrysideKey Insights
...Survival Roadmap: The Negro Motorist Green Book and Black Travel During Jim Crow America
Episode Overview
A powerful exploration of Black travel during the Jim Crow era, featuring first-hand accounts from Charles and Christine Kimbrough about navigating a dangerous and discriminatory landscape.
Key Themes
Survival strategies for Black travelersSystemic racism in transportation and public spacesThe critical role of community knowledgeResilience and adaptation during segregationMemorable Moments
Personal stories of near-violent encountersDetailed descriptions of daily challengesInsights into the Green Book's importanceFamily migration experiencesKey Stories Highlighted
Dangerous bus ride through Philadelphia, MississippiClose encounters with racist law enforcementNavigating travel without basic safety guaranteesStrategies for finding...Why Solo Travel is the Ultimate Self-Discovery Journey: Tips, Stories & Life Lessons
Show Notes: Why Solo Travel is the Ultimate Self-Discovery Journey
Episode Summary
In this insightful episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, host Alexander Johnson sits down with his mother and experienced traveler, Cheryl Johnson, to explore the transformative power of solo travel. From practical tips to personal stories, they unpack why traveling alone can be one of life's most empowering experiences and how anyone can begin their solo travel journey.
Time Stamps
00:00 - Introduction and welcome01:30 - Cheryl shares how her solo travel journey began03:45 - The importance of...Breaking Barriers in Youth Exchange Programs: How One Former Teacher is Making Cultural Immersion Accessible to All Students
Show Notes
Episode Overview:
In this inspiring episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, hosts Alexander and Cheryl Johnson explore the transformative power of international youth exchange programs and the critical need to make these life-changing experiences accessible to all students, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Featured Guest
Cheryl Johnson - Former Spanish teacher, travel advisor, and founder of Youth Exchange Collective, a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing financial and social barriers to international youth exchange programs.
Key Topics Discussed
The Genesis...
Exploring St. Croix: Must-Know Island Living and Travel Secrets
Show Notes:
In this episode, we take you on a journey to St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and a true Caribbean hidden gem. From its rich history as a former sugar plantation powerhouse to stunning natural attractions and vibrant local culture, St. Croix offers a unique blend of experiences for every traveler.
What you'll discover in this episode:
From High School Grad to Travel Advisor: My Journey Through Language, Teaching, and Wanderlust
Podcast Episode Show Notes: From Hesitant High School Traveler to Passionate Travel Advisor
In this inspiring episode, I share my personal journey of how a reluctant high school senior’s summer trip to Europe unexpectedly sparked a lifelong passion for travel. What began as hesitation transformed into wanderlust, leading me through college, teaching, international cultural exchanges, and finally to a fulfilling career as a travel advisor.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
The Science of Travel: How Multi-Generational Trips Rewire Your Brain and Create Lasting Family Memories
Episode Title: The Science of Travel: How Multi-Generational Trips Rewire Your Brain and Create Lasting Family Memories
Episode Description:
Join host Cheryl of Nostalgic Travel Talks as she sits down with her sister-in-law Karen and neuroscientist sister-in-law Stephanie to explore the fascinating connection between travel and the brain. In this heartfelt and enlightening episode, they dive into how traveling, especially during childhood and across multiple generations, shapes neural pathways, enhances cognitive function, and creates powerful family memories that last a lifetime. From personal travel stories to the neuroscience behind memory and bonding, discover why multi-generational...
How Studying Medicine in Cuba Shaped a More Human Doctor: A Global Journey
In this inspiring episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, I sit down with Dr. Veronica Flake, a Philadelphia native and global health advocate who studied medicine in one of the most unexpected places—Cuba.
We explore how six transformative years at the Latin American School of Medicine in Havana shaped her into the compassionate, community-minded physician she is today. From overcoming language barriers to learning medicine with minimal resources, Dr. Flake shares how Cuba’s human-centered approach to healthcare redefined what it means to be a doctor.
🌍 In this episode, we discuss:
Why Dr. Flake chose t...Discover Cuernavaca: Mexico's Eternal Spring and Hidden Cultural Gem
💬 Episode Description:
In this special mother-daughter edition of Nostalgic Travel Talks, Cheryl and Brittany transport you to the lush gardens and sun-kissed streets of Cuernavaca, Mexico—La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera.
From Aztec origins and Hernán Cortés’ imposing palace to French emperors and vibrant local traditions, Cuernavaca offers a colorful tapestry of history and culture. We reminisce about sipping Mexican hot chocolate, wandering botanical gardens, peacocks at lunch, and even that unforgettable climb up the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán. (Yes, even four-year-old Brittany made it to the top!)
Whether...
From Havana to Healing: A U.S. Doctor’s Experience Studying Medicine in Cuba
What’s it like to study medicine in Cuba? In this episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, host Cheryl Johnson sits down with Dr. Gigi Simmons, a U.S. physician who studied medicine at the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM) in Cuba. They explore the cultural, educational, and emotional journey that shaped her medical career. From free education and universal healthcare to bunk bed dorms and Cuban pizzas, Dr. Simmons gives us a real, raw, and inspiring look into global learning. Tune in to discover how travel can expand not just your worldview—but your heart.
Show Note...
Cruise Curious? What you need to know about Virgin Voyages before you book
Are you “cruise curious”? In this episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, travel advisor Cheryl Johnson spills the tea (and maybe a little champagne) on what makes Virgin Voyages so different from your typical cruise. From the iconic red hammock that became her nightly sanctuary to the perks of the Splash of Romance package, Cheryl gives you the insider scoop you need before you book.
She’s breaking down the top features, pro tips, and why this adults-only cruise line is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and girlfriend getaways alike. Plus — hear why booking with Cheryl means exclusive bonuses...
How to Stay Fit While Traveling: Expert Tips from an Orange Theory Coach
In this energizing episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, we’re talking all things travel and fitness with special guest Dennice Shupe, veteran fitness coach at Orange Theory Fitness. Whether you're a frequent flyer, a beach bum, or a sightseeing fanatic, Dennice shares real-world tips on how to stay active while traveling—without sacrificing fun (or dessert 🍰).
We dive into:
Dennice’s journey from fitness fan to Orange Theory coachThe power of consistency and accountability in your workoutsHow Orange Theory’s worldwide studios and travel-friendly app make it easy to stay on track—anywhereCreative ways to get your sweat on...Skip The Crowds: Discover Second Cities Worth The Trip
Overcrowded destinations stealing your travel joy? In this episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, host Cheryl Johnson unveils five “second city” swaps that offer all the charm of Europe’s most popular tourist hubs—without the chaos. From skipping the crowds in Barcelona to discovering quieter alternatives to Venice, Amsterdam, and more, this episode is your guide to thoughtful, immersive, and crowd-free adventures.
Whether you’re a slow traveler, a culture buff, or just tired of long lines, tune in for fresh destination ideas that are rich in beauty, history, and local flavor.
🔗 Subscribe now and start plannin...
Family Adventures and Crocodile Stories: Travel Memories with My Grandson
Ready to see the world through a kid’s eyes? 👀🌎
In this heartwarming episode of Nostalgic Travel Talks, I sit down with a very special guest — my 8-year-old grandson, Jayden — to chat about all things travel from a kid's perspective! 🧳
We talk about:
What makes a trip exciting (spoiler alert: beaches and stuffed animals are key 🏖️🧸)His favorite travel memories from Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida 🌴The ultimate kid-approved travel essentialsWhy Buc-ee’s might just be the best store on Earth (according to Jayden) 🚗🛍️How to make travel easier and more magical when you're bringing little ones along ✨PLUS — we finis...
Wanderlust in 2025: What’s Hot, What’s Not, and What You Really Need to Know
Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please? 🎙️ Ready for an adventure?
Whether you're revisiting cherished moments or planning brand-new escapades, Nostalgic Travel Talks is here to spark your wanderlust! In today’s episode, we’re diving headfirst into the top travel trends 2025 is serving up — from slow travel and second city travel destinations to the latest cruising trends and why purposeful travel is taking center stage.
I’m also sharing must-know travel tips for 2025 that will help you dodge the common pitfalls and actually enjoy your journey (because no one wants their dream trip turning...
From Madrid With Linguistic Love🎙️
Episode 5 | Featuring Dr. Cristina, Spanish Linguist at SLU Madrid
Have you ever wondered why Spanish sounds so different depending on where you go? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the fascinating world of Spanish linguistics with Dr. Cristina Matute, a professor at Saint Louis University’s Madrid campus. From Castilian consonants to Latin American rhythms, we break down the "why" behind the words.
Cristina shares:
The historical roots of Spanish phonetics and pronunciationHow regional dialects have evolved and why they matterWhat makes Spanish so fun—and sometimes tricky—for learnersInsightful tips for la...Tasting Spain: Chef Rafa’s Passion for Authentic Flavors
Episode Title: Tasting Spain: Chef Rafa’s Passion for Authentic Flavors
📅 Episode Release Date: March 18
🎧 Hosted by: Cheryl Johnson, Brittany Johnson | Nostalgic Travel Talks Podcast
Episode Overview
In this delicious episode, I sit down with Chef Rafa, a passionate Spanish chef, to explore the vibrant world of Spanish cuisine. From paella and tapas to lesser-known regional specialties, Rafa shares his culinary journey, insider tips, and must-try dishes for travelers heading to Spain. Whether you're a foodie, a home cook, or planning your next tri...
