The Travel Bug Girls Podcast

Meet Melissa, our newest Travel Bug Girl & resident cruise expert! Hear some of our favorite cruise tips & some funny (& strange!) travel stories! To learn more about our upcoming group cruises or to plan your custom cruise experience, visit www.travelbuggirls.com/melissa.

In an era of AI-generated itineraries and endless booking engines, why is the travel agent industry seeing a massive resurgence? In this episode, Kimmie and Heather (the Travel Bug Girls) dive into why human expertise and personal connection are irreplaceable when it comes to planning the perfect trip. They explore the limitations of algorithms, the "human advantage" in travel design, and debunk common myths about working with travel professionals. Connect with Us Join the Conversation: Share your stories of being saved by a travel agent in our TBG Facebook Group. Support the Show: Please subscribe and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

In this episode, we dive into the growing trend of babymoons—those special vacations expectant parents take to relax and connect before welcoming their new bundle of joy. We'll explore ideal destinations, from serene beach resorts to luxurious spa retreats, and discuss how to tailor the perfect babymoon experience to meet your clients' needs. Whether it's a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled escape, you'll learn how to create unforgettable moments for your clients during this unique life stage. Tune in for tips, destination ideas, and insights into crafting babymoon packages that exceed expectations. Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

Grab your sunscreen and an extra appetite! This week, the Travel Bug Girls are heading to the "Land of Smiles." From the bustling night markets of Bangkok to the crystal-clear waters of the Phi Phi Islands, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about navigating Thailand. Whether you're a luxury seeker or a backpacker at heart, we’ve got the tips to help you sawasdee-way through your next trip! Episode Resources Pack With Us: Check out our previous episode on Packing Light to see how to fit your Thailand wardrobe into a carry-on! Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram & TikTok for photos & video of all our adventures. Check out the Wander Pillow at www.thewanderpillow.com and use code WANDER5 for an additional discount for our listeners! Check out https://www.betablox.com/theblox/seasons for all episodes of The Blox, including Season 22 coming in Dec 25/Jan 26. You can also see Travel Bug Girls CEO, Heather on season 12! Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

Grab your sunscreen and an extra appetite! This week, the Travel Bug Girls are heading to the "Land of Smiles." From the bustling night markets of Bangkok to the crystal-clear waters of the Phi Phi Islands, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about navigating Thailand. Whether you're a luxury seeker or a backpacker at heart, we’ve got the tips to help you sawasdee-way through your next trip! Episode Resources Pack With Us: Check out our previous episode on Packing Light to see how to fit your Thailand wardrobe into a carry-on! Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram & TikTok for photos & video of all our adventures.

Pack your bags and grab your sunscreen! In this episode of The Travel Bug Girls Podcast, we’re heading to the tropics to give you the ultimate deep dive into Sandals Resorts. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic honeymoon, a milestone anniversary, or just a luxury escape, we’re breaking down everything that makes "Luxury Included" worth it. Connect with us! Do you have a favorite Sandals resort or a question for our next trip? Find us on YouTube, Instagram or leave a comment on our Podbean page. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an adventure!

While a trip to Disney is undoubtedly magical, the planning process can often feel overwhelming. In this episode, the Travel Bug Girls provide a roadmap to help you plan a stress-free and truly memorable Disney vacation. In this episode, we cover: Setting the Foundation: We discuss the key differences between Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California, and how to pick the right time to visit based on crowds, pricing, and weather. Budgeting and Accommodations: Learn the pros and cons of staying "on-property" versus "off-property," and get a breakdown of ticket options like Park Hopper and the Disney Dining Plan. Mastering the Technical Side: We explain why the My Disney Experience and Disneyland apps are non-negotiable and offer tips for snagging hard-to-get dining reservations. Navigating the Parks: Understand the current entry systems, including Lightning Lane and Virtual Queues, to help your family skip the lines. Crafting Your Itinerary: We weigh in on the "Rope Drop" vs. "Late Night" debate and explain why building in "resort days" for rest is essential. Pro-Tips for Success: From packing essentials you didn't know you needed to budget hacks for snacks and souvenirs, we share our best secrets for managing expectations and avoiding the "Disney meltdown". Conclusion: We wrap up with a summary of the top three most important planning steps and remind you that, at the end of the day, it’s all about making magic memories with your loved ones. Check out the Wander Pillow at www.thewanderpillow.com and use code WANDER5 for an additional discount for our listeners! Check out https://www.betablox.com/theblox/seasons for all episodes of The Blox, including Season 22 coming in Dec 25/Jan 26. You can also see Travel Bug Girls CEO, Heather on season 12! Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

We’re diving into the controversial world of Travel Agent Fees. Why do some pros charge $50, $100, or even more just to start planning? Is it a "hidden cost" or the secret to a stress-free vacation? In this episode of The Travel Bug Girls, we pull back the curtain on: What you’re actually paying for (it’s not just a booking!). How fees protect your trip when things go sideways. The difference between a "booker" and a "designer." 🎧 Listen now to find out if your travel agent is worth the investment! Don't forget to subscribe, give us a 5 star rating, review & share our podcast! You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

Packing light is as much a mental game as it is a logistical one. Whether you’re a "one-bag" devotee or someone who always ends up paying for an overweight suitcase, join Kimmie & Heather of The Travel Bug Girls as they share their money saving tips on packing light. Don't forget to subscribe, give us a 5 star rating, review & share our podcast! You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

Join Kimmie & Heather as we look back at what The Travel Bug Girls accomplished in 2025 and look forward to what’s coming in 2026. Be sure to follow us on all our socials to travel along with all our adventures! Don't forget to subscribe, give us a 5 star rating, review & share our podcast! You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

Join me as a take you through some of my favorite moments of The Travel Bug Girls podcast in 2025. From the excitement of our very first episode to our behind the scenes look at how travel agents get paid. From our best tips & tricks for traveling with kids to international solo travel, this episode is jam-packed with the BEST of 2025! I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did creating this episode for you! Did I include your favorite episode? If not, tell us which one you loved! Don't forget to subscribe, give us a 5 star rating, review & share our podcast! You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

These episodes on traveling with kids were so full of information, we just had to share them again. Join the Travel Bug Girls for practical and empathetic advice on traveling with littles! Whether you're navigating airports with toddlers or planning your first trip with an infant, we've got you covered. We dive into pre-trip planning power-ups, packing like a pro, conquering the journey, and maintaining the right mindset for successful family travel. Get ready for kid-friendly travel tips to make your adventures smoother and more enjoyable! Like our podcast? Be sure to rate & review us! And subscribe to our feed so you don't miss an episode! Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

Join Travel Bug Girls founder, Heather & her sister, Shannon as they share their recent experience on a Princess Cruise, from how food allergies are handled (a big win!), what different packages include (food, drinks, wifi, gratuities, etc) and the sisters' fun take on an old cruise standard that you won't want to miss. They also offer some insight in to what women are really looking for when they travel. You'll love this unfiltered conversation between two sisters who love to travel! If you're inspired to have your own sister/mom/daughter/BFF adventure, let the Travel Bug Girls take care of all the planning! Visit our website at travelbuggirls.com for more info. Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

In this episode, we dive into the growing trend of babymoons—those special vacations expectant parents take to relax and connect before welcoming their new bundle of joy. We'll explore ideal destinations, from serene beach resorts to luxurious spa retreats, and discuss how to tailor the perfect babymoon experience to meet your clients' needs. Whether it's a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled escape, you'll learn how to create unforgettable moments for your clients during this unique life stage. Tune in for tips, destination ideas, and insights into crafting babymoon packages that exceed expectations. Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

On the second half of this two-part episode of the Travel Bug Girls Podcast, we dive into the world of international accommodations! From boutique hotels and charming B&Bs to global hotel chains and unique stays, we explore the pros and cons of each option. This episode will inform and inspire listeners about the diverse range of international accommodations, helping them choose the best fit for their travel style and budget. Expect an overview of traditional hotels and resorts, budget-friendly options, unique and cultural stays, and practical booking tips. Plus, a bonus side discussion on international potties! :) Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure, this episode will help you find the perfect place to rest your head abroad. Tune in and get ready to book smarter! Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

On the first of this two-part episode of the Travel Bug Girls Podcast, we dive into the world of international accommodations! From boutique hotels and charming B&Bs to global hotel chains and unique stays, we explore the pros and cons of each option. This episode will inform and inspire listeners about the diverse range of international accommodations, helping them choose the best fit for their travel style and budget. Expect an overview of traditional hotels and resorts, budget-friendly options, unique and cultural stays, and practical booking tips. Plus, a bonus side discussion on international potties! :) Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure, this episode will help you find the perfect place to rest your head abroad. Tune in and get ready to book smarter! Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

In this episode of Travel Bug Girls, we’re spilling all the details about our unforgettable experience at WORLD25! From the Luxe Symposium kickoff to the inspiring general sessions and hands-on workshops, we’ll share how this event in Dallas fueled our passion and gave us actionable strategies to grow our travel businesses. Plus, hear about the amazing connections we made with fellow advisors and top suppliers, and the fun moments that made WORLD25 truly one-of-a-kind. Tune in for all the highlights and why we can’t wait for next year! Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

Should you splurge on a first-class train ticket or embrace the unpredictable adventure of a local bus? This episode answers the ultimate travel question: How should I get from A to B? We dive deep into the trade-offs, discussing the security of ride-shares, the freedom of rental cars, the scenery of rail travel, and the necessity of budget flights. Learn to choose the transport that matches your travel style and budget, avoiding common pitfalls along the way.' For more episodes in our International Travel series, check out episodes 28 & 31. Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips

Congratulations on your engagement!! A destination wedding sounds sooooo dreamy, right? And they can be BUT if you're not careful, you might have guests that aren't allowed to come to your wedding! That's right! But don't worry, in this episode the Travel Bug Girls sit down to dish about ALL those important details that you need to know to have the destination wedding of your dreams with all your favorite friends and family. Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Want to join our VIP group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs. Visit our sponsors: Speak! Language Academy https://www.speaklanguageacademy.com/link/OfQ90T Knitty Adventures https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Visit https://travelbuggirls.com/group-trips to learn about all our upcoming Girls Group Trips Stay tuned to travelbuggirls.com for more information on an exclusive Travel Bug Girls trip with Hands Up Holidays or book your own custom luxury family volunteer vacation at handsupholidays.com and tell them the Travel Bug Girls sent you

The Travel Bug Girls have partnered up with A Little Knitty, a local yarn shop in Milton, Washington, to create some incredible trips you are going to LOVE. Each trip is designed to check all the boxes for yarn and fiber lovers who want to take their crafting on the road (or high seas!) NOTE: The May Knitty Adventures trip discussed in this episode has passed (May 2025) but there is still an opportunity to join the October Knitty Adventures trip! Interested in a future fiber-lovers trip or in your own themed group trip? Contact Heather at [email protected] Click here for a TBG link to interchangeable knitting needles and here for a super cute carrying case! (Note: TBG does receive commission from our Amazon links) Learn more about A Little Knitty yard shop at https://www.alittleknitty.com/ So, grab your favorite yarn and get ready to pack your bags. Learn more at https://travelbuggirls.com/knitty-adventures Connect with us on Facebook under this week's podcast question at Facebook.com/Travelbuggirls. You can find us on your favorite social media by using @TravelBugGirls. Join our exclusive VIP FB group? You'll find us in Facebook groups under TBGTravelBugs or at facebook.com/groups/tbgtravelbugs.