What are the best adult-only vacations for couples and friends in their 40s and beyond? In this episode of the Where We Roam Podcast, John, Dayna, and Shawn share their favorite middle-aged, adult-only getaways — trips that balance relaxation, great food, adventure, and nightlife without feeling like a spring break rerun. From adult-only cruises to luxury all-inclusive resorts, domestic escapes, and bucket-list international trips, this episode breaks down where to go — and why certain destinations work better at this stage of life. Destinations & Travel Styles We Cover: Virgin Voyages & Celebrity Cruises for adults-only and no-kids cruising All-inclusive resorts for couples (Atelier Playa Mujeres, Sandals South Coast, Xcaret Arte) Napa Valley, Sedona, Yellowstone & Sage Lodge for elevated U.S. getaways Hawaii as the ultimate anniversary or milestone trip European river cruises as a surprisingly perfect option for travelers in their 40s We also talk about: Party vibe vs. peace and quiet (and how to choose the right fit) Why some luxury resorts feel too quiet — and others are just right How budget, time off, and energy level should shape your trip planning Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, friends trip, anniversary vacation, or your first adults-only escape in years, this episode will help you choose a destination that actually matches your lifestyle. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review the Where We Roam Podcast wherever you listen — and let us help you plan what’s next.

Disney Cruise Line’s Wish Class has sparked more debate than any fleet Disney has ever launched — and today, we’re breaking down the good, the bad, and the downright controversial. From elevator layouts and the infamous “bathtub pools” to the new rotational dining shows, immersive storytelling, elevated theming, and the real-world fixes Disney implemented between Wish → Treasure → Destiny… we cover it all. We’re joined by friend of the pod Jess, fresh off the Disney Destiny preview sailing, to talk through what’s working, what still needs love, and whether this new era of Disney cruising truly delivers that old-school magic. We dig into: How the Wish Class layout really affects families with kids of different ages The upgraded theming, art direction, and character moments — including why Destiny feels more “Disneyland” than “Disney World” What changed (and what didn’t) on the pool decks, and why parents feel so strongly about it World of Marvel, 1923, and the evolution of rotational dining The stunning new Pride Lands dinner show — and where the menu still misses the mark Hidden gems like Hero Zone, lounges, nightlife, and which ship currently balances it all best Whether you’re booked on Wish, eyeing Treasure, or dying to experience Destiny after its big debut, this is your essential Wish Class Guide to help you plan smarter, set expectations, and maximize the magic.

Ever wonder which Universal Orlando rides truly stack up against Disney World’s biggest attractions?This week, John, Dayna, and Shawn dive deep into the most honest, most chaotic, and most opinion-packed comparison episode we’ve ever done. Buckle up — feelings were hurt, friendships were tested, and some sacred cows were absolutely roasted. We break down attraction matchups like: Tron Lightcycle Run vs. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster (Muppets Mayhem version!) vs. VelociCoaster Tower of Terror vs… literally anything Universal has Slinky Dog Dash vs. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders Monsters Unchained vs. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Peter Pan’s Flight vs. E.T. Adventure (John and Dayna vs. Shawn… chaos) Toy Story Midway Mania vs. Universal’s shooters Plus:🎃 Everyone accidentally wore Universal-themed Halloween costumes⚾ John is riding high after the Dodgers World Series win😂 Shawn enters the “Cone of Silence” for a theme park lightning round showdown🔥 And the crew debates whether Epic Universe has officially changed the Orlando theme park landscape forever Whether you're planning your next Orlando trip or just love ride debates, this episode delivers deep insight, unfiltered opinions, and tons of theme park laughs.

This week we’re embracing the chaos with what we lovingly call The Big Toe Episode — where the topics aren’t sexy, but they matter more than ever. We’re breaking down the travel insurance questions everyone is suddenly asking, the recent flight disruptions, and the reality behind those shiny Black Friday offers. PLUS: four brand-new cruise ships launching in the same month (yes, four!), what that explosion in capacity means for pricing, and whether now is the moment to lock in a deal or hold tight. It’s a fireside chat full of smart insights, quick takeaways, and the usual laughs — perfect for anyone cruising, flying, or planning 2025 / 2026 travel.

This week, it’s just John and Dayna holding down the fort while Shawn’s away — and there’s plenty to cover! They start with heartfelt updates on Hurricane Melissa’s impact across Jamaica and the Bahamas, sharing what travelers need to know as airports reopen and relief efforts ramp up. Then, it’s over to the Greek Isles, where Royal Caribbean just announced its new Royal Beach Club in Santorini — a sustainable seaside retreat blending local culture with that signature Royal vibe. From there, the duo dives into Norwegian Cruise Line’s big change to its drink packages at Great Stirrup Cay (spoiler: your island cocktails aren’t free anymore) — and why it might not be as bad as it sounds. Finally, John and Dayna explore a surprising shift in the travel landscape: Q4 2025 is packed with last-minute deals. With excess inventory across cruises, Disney vacations, and even Universal Orlando, flexibility might just be the secret to saving big this holiday season. Whether you’re dreaming of the Mediterranean, monitoring storm recovery, or hunting for a spontaneous getaway, this “news-lite” episode delivers a quick pulse on what’s happening in the travel world.

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 2025 delivers its scariest lineup yet — Terrifier, Five Nights at Freddy’s, and more! Dayna, Addison, John, and Shawn break down every house, rank the scares, and reveal what it’s really like to bring a teen to this over-the-top event. If you’re planning your own trip, don’t miss their insider tips, scare zone favorites, and Express Pass strategy to make the most of your night.

How heavy is too heavy when it comes to your Disney or Universal park bag?This week, John, Dayna, and Shawn go head-to-head in the ultimate packing debate: the over-prepared pack mule 🐴 vs. the minimalist traveler 🩳. They reveal what’s worth carrying (spoiler: not your MagSafe charger in Florida), what’s a total waste of space, and the weirdest things people actually pack for a day in the parks. Expect laughs, eye-rolls, and maybe a few personal confessions about sunscreen, snacks, and “strategic chafing prevention.” 🎢 Whether you’re a park pro or a first-timer, this episode will help you pack smarter—and save your back (and sanity) in the Florida heat.

Four months after its grand opening, Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is already changing the theme-park game — and we’re breaking it all down. In this episode, John, Dayna, and Shawn share honest reactions, hilarious moments, and insider travel tips from the newest and most immersive park in Orlando. We kick things off with a “This or That” ride showdown — from Battle at the Ministry to Stardust Racers, Curse of the Werewolf, Hiccups Wing Gliders, and beyond — to find out which attraction truly reigns supreme. Then we dive into resort impressions (hello, Stella Nova, Terra Luna, and Helios Grand), express-pass updates, hidden details you might miss, and how Epic Universe compares to Disney’s parks. You’ll hear firsthand ride reviews, meet-and-greet highlights (Toothless fans, this one’s for you 🐉), nighttime show recommendations, and even a few spicy takes about butterbeer and mac-and-cheese cones. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your next one, this episode is packed with real-world insights from top travel advisors who’ve been there, done that, and still can’t stop talking about it.

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