Trip Tales | A Family Travel Podcast

Kelsey Graves

Trip Tales is the podcast where real people share their real trip stories - detailing where they went, how they got there, where they stayed, what they ate, the activities they loved, and what they’d do differently next time. Each week features a new guest and a new destination to inspire your next vacation. Hosted by Kelsey Graves - mom of 3 and travel content creator.

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21 episodes
Updated Wednesday

Episodes21

Newest first

Wednesday · 44 min
Kelsey Unpacked: Earn Points by SAVING Instead of Spending Money?!
What if you could earn travel points by saving money instead of spending it? In this episode of Kelsey Unpacked, I’m joined by Symphony co-founder James Berry and COO Jennifer Styles to talk about the groundbreaking new app that is completely flipping the traditional points game on its head. We’re used to earning rewards by opening credit cards and spending money on travel, dining and everyday purchases. Symphony created an entirely new way to earn by rewarding you for saving instead. Your money can earn up to 5% APY, and you get to choose whether your rewards are paid in cash, travel points or a combination of both. We unpack how Symphony works, why it was created, how your points can grow alongside your savings and what users can expect from its upcoming airline, hotel and travel partners. I’ve already downloaded the app and funded my own account, and I was so impressed by how simple, fun and beautifully designed it is. This is such an exciting option for anyone who wants to grow their savings while also working toward future travel. This episode is sponsored by Symphony. LINK TO SYMPHONY: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Kelsey's Symphony Link: https://join.symphony.io/kelsey - Travel points and miles - American Express - Delta - Airport Lounges - Financial Literacy - 5% APY Savings Account
Monday · 1 hr 22 min
Amsterdam - TikTok Said It Was Toddler-Friendly… So She Took Her 2-Year-Old to Find Out!
TikTok told Laura that Amsterdam was one of the most toddler-friendly cities in Europe, so she decided to find out for herself! In August 2025, Laura and her husband traveled from New Brunswick, Canada, to Amsterdam with their 2.5-year-old daughter for a full week of family adventures. And they were pleasantly surprised by just how much the city offered for little kids! Laura shares how they created a toddler-friendly rhythm with morning activities, afternoon naps and plenty of time for parks, playgrounds and snacks. From the zoo and NEMO Science Museum to biking through Vondelpark, exploring kid-friendly museums, cruising the canals and tasting their way through local markets, this trip proves that Amsterdam can be an incredible European destination - even with a toddler in tow! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - My dog's favorite cheese bones https://amzlink.to/az0E1x241YPSw - Laura's favorite travel stroller https://amzlink.to/az0PlFvKKApuj - Halifax Airport - "Welcome Pickups" Transfer Company - The Concert Hotel - Vondelpark - Attractions included in the iAmsterdam City Card/Pass: ARTIS Amsterdam Zoo, Moco Museum (modern art), NEMO Science Museum, STRAAT (Street Art Museum), Rijksmuseum, National Maritime Museum, Bike Rental - Restaurants/Food: Cobra Cafe, Groot Melkhuis, Bakers & Roasters, Fabel Friet for Dutch fries - Pizza Canal Cruise - Albert Heijn grocery stores - DAY TRIPS: Zaanse Schans, Leiden (Paco Ciao speakeasy-type restaurant), Delft - NDSM Wharf & Ferry (free) - Pancake Boat Tour - Sarphatipark - parkrun - Max Euwe Centre Chess Museum - De Pijp neighborhood: Albert Cuyp Markt for Stroopwafels from Rudy's and Kibbeling fish bites Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
July 29 · 18 min
Kelsey Unpacked: The List Technique That's Saving My Life + Theo of Golden Is Giving Me Life
I’m sharing the simple list technique that’s helping me feel more accomplished and less overwhelmed: separating what I truly have to do each day from the non-priorities. Plus, I’m talking about Theo of Golden—the sweetest, most heartwarming book everyone is loving! Mentioned in this episode: - Inflatable Travel Mat: https://amzlink.to/az0wCGVzlVgpS - Amazon Index Cards: https://amzlink.to/az0Tzrefcy1tn - Theo of Golden: https://amzlink.to/az0FbdcJ2tXpd Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879
July 27 · 1 hr 28 min
South Africa - They Saw the Big Five! Cape Town, Wine Country and How a Safari Actually Works
Alaina (@molars.and.miles) is an Ohio mom of three, dentist, and expert trip planner who takes an annual couples trip with her husband and another couple. After traveling to 10 countries together, their latest adventure took them all the way to South Africa in April 2025—and this may have been their most unforgettable trip yet! In just eight days, they experienced three completely different sides of South Africa: vibey Cape Town with its incredible restaurants and breathtaking scenery, a dreamy night in the Franschhoek wine country, and a thrilling luxury safari where they saw the Big Five. Alaina shares how the safari experience actually works—from early-morning game drives and animals roaming just feet away to sunset happy hours in the bush, cozy lodge dinners, and the excitement of tracking lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Add in beautiful hotels, unforgettable meals, a wine tram, and plenty of spontaneous travel magic, and this trip was truly a foodie and adventure lover’s dream. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Link to Trip Tales podcast on Apple: Mentioned in this episode: - Alaina's Instagram: www.instagram.com/molars.and.miles and website: www.molarsandmiles.com - CAPETOWN: Cape Grace Hotel, Table Mountain, Time Out Market, Chapman's Peak drive, Boulders Beach, Simon's Town, "Just Mich" Tour Guide, Groot Constantia Wine Farm, Chef's Warehouse, Marble - FRANSCHHOEK: Babylonstoren (Cape Dutch Farm), Leeu Estates, Wine Tram - SAFARI: Hoedspruit Airport, Greater Kruger National Park, Kapama Private Game Lodge, Safari Game Drives, the Big Five Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
July 22 · 35 min
Kelsey Unpacked: How I Grew from 19K to 66K Followers - Filming, Editing and Posting Viral Travel Reels
I’m sharing the filming, editing and posting strategies that helped me grow from 19K to 66K followers after leaning into travel content. From iPhone settings and CapCut tips to hooks, captions and calls to action, these are the simple things that have helped my travel Reels reach more people. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - H.O.P.E. - Help One Person Everyday - Niche down - iPhone Video Settings: 4K and 60 Frames Per Second (FPS) - Video editing app: CapCut - Hook + Keep their attention + CTA (Call to Action) - LinkDM and ManyChat
July 20 · 2 hr 11 min
France - You, Me & Chablis: One Magical Night in Paris and Three Days in Wine Country + Joe Joins!
Kelsey and Joe are back from their couples trip to France - and Joe is joining at the end for the rapid fire questions! Hear about their magical night in Paris, watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle, exploring Montmartre, and squeezing as much as possible into less than 24 hours before heading into the peaceful French countryside. Then it’s on to Chablis for vineyard views, charming villages, a dreamy château, plenty of wine tastings, and a much-needed chance to slow down together. If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - My Capital One Venture X Referral Link: https://i.capitalone.com/JMxfRZaqs - Chablis, France - Chateau de la Resle - Air France Premium Economy - Points and Miles - Aer Lingus - Le Parisis Hotel - JFK: The TWA Hotel and Lounge, Connie, The Paris Cafe, Capital One Lounge - EU EES Entry Exit System - Montmarte: Sacre-Coeur - Gare de Lyon - Joigny: La Station - Auxerre: Le Maison Fort, Le Sub - Chablis: William Fèvre (tasting room), Jean-Marc Brocard (vineyard), Domaine Long-Depaquit (chateau), Domaine Laroche (cave tour) - Petite Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru, Grand Cru
July 15 · 34 min
Kelsey Unpacked: Trip Anxiety, Mom Guilt & My First Airport Lounge - I'm Ruined
The night before our France trip, unexpected travel anxiety and mom guilt hit me hard - and then our flight was canceled! I’m unpacking what it felt like to leave the kids during a very busy week, plus the much happier story of my first airport lounge experience. Spoiler: I’m officially ruined. If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Chablis - Chateau de la Resle - Capital One Lounge JFK - Air France Lounge - TWA Hotel and Airplane Louge
July 13 · 59 min
Yosemite & Lake Tahoe - National Park Magic, Biking, Hiking, Lake Swims & Bear Sightings!
In this episode of Trip Tales, Kelsey chats with Kayla, a mom of three from the Atlanta area, about her family of five’s June 2025 adventure to Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. With kids ages 12, 10, and 7, Kayla and her husband used points, miles, and Southwest Companion Passes to make this bucket-list national park trip more affordable. They flew into Fresno, explored Yosemite Valley by bike, hiked to waterfalls, stayed at the family-friendly Tenaya Lodge, wandered through the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, and then road-tripped on to Lake Tahoe for lake swims, kayaking, Monkey Rock, and even a few bear sightings. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Hyatt Place Fresno, CA - YOSEMITE: South Entrance, Yosemite Valley, Curry Village, Vernal Falls, Mirror Lake, Village Grill, Lower Yosemite Falls, El Capitan Field, Glacier Point, Twala Meadows - Mariposa Grove: The California Tunnel, the Grizzly Tree - Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite - 4th Grade National Park Pass - Tenaya Lake - Mono Lake (Alkali Flies) - Lake Tahoe: Hotel Becket Best Western Signature, Monkey Rock, Baldwin Beach Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
July 8 · 25 min
Kelsey Unpacked: What Your Enneagram Type Says About Your Travel Style
I love the Enneagram, I love travel, and today we’re combining the two just for fun! In this episode, I’m breaking down all nine Enneagram types and how each one shows up on vacation! From the planners and peacekeepers to the dreamers, helpers, adventurers, and everyone in between. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879
July 6 · 1 hr 16 min
England & Paris - Harry Potter Magic, Wandering Cotswolds Villages & One Dreamy Day in Paris
Nikki Packer from Utah is back on Trip Tales, and this time she’s sharing her family’s spring break trip through England and Paris! Mostly booked on points, Nikki’s family started in London with classic sightseeing, Borough Market treats, and the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour before making their way to Oxford, Bath, and the dreamy English countryside. But the true surprise of the trip? The Cotswolds. From wandering storybook villages to hiking through meadows, exploring old churches, eating gelato on bridges, and staying in a tiny ancestral village, Nikki makes a strong case for why the Cotswolds can be a magical destination for kids — especially families who love to wander, hike, and explore without an overpacked itinerary. They ended the trip with one whirlwind, dreamy day in Paris, complete with crepes, gardens, Montmartre, and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Nicki Packer: @packinpoints on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/packinpoints/ - Kelsey's Hotel Upgrade Guide https://kelsey-graves.kit.com/e1c6074077 - LONDON: Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars, Tower of London (Beefeater Tour), Borough Market (viral chocolate covered strawberries!), Padella Borough Market (Italian restaurant), Thames Path, St. Jame's Park, Buckingham Palace, Parliament Square, Westminster Abbey, Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Covent Garden, Millennium Bridge, The Globe Theater - OXFORD: Addison's Walk, Botanical Gardens, Rozana (best Mediterranean wrap of Nicki's life!) - Blenheim Palace (Winston Churchill's childhood home) - BATH: Abbey Hotel, The Bath Abbey Church, Bathwick Trail (The Bathwick and Claverton Down Circular, popularly known as the Bath Skyline, is a spectacular 6 to 7.5-mile loop offering sweeping views over Bath, ancient woodlands, and wildflower meadows) - COTSWOLDS Painswick: Painswick village, St. Mary’s Church, The 99 yew trees at St. Mary’s Church, Nikki’s family’s Airbnb was near St. Mary’s Church Stroud: Stroud Farmers’ Market Bourton-on-the-Water: Box Bush Gelato Upper & Lower Slaughter: Walking path between the two villages Other Cotswolds Villages Mentioned: Chipping Campden, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold Walks, Hikes & Scenic Stops: The Cotswolds Way, Broadway Tower, Beacon Path Gloucester: Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester Cathedral Cloisters — Harry Potter filming location - PARIS: Hyatt Paris Madeleine, Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile, Eiffel Tower, Crepes, Louvre Museum, Tuileries Garden, Musée de l'Orangerie (Monet's Water Lillies), Sainte-Chapelle Cathedral, Notre Dame, Shakespeare and Company Bookstore, La Crème de Paris (crepes), Jardin du Luxembourg, Montmartre
July 1 · 21 min
Kelsey Unpacked: We Planned a Romantic Trip to France… Then Europe Hit 103°
What happens when your dreamy, romantic France trip suddenly turns into a European heat wave survival mission? In this episode of Kelsey Unpacked, I’m sharing the real-time pivots we’re making before our kid-free getaway to Paris and Chablis — from confirming air conditioning at our tiny French chateau to rethinking my cute wine country outfits, packing electrolytes, and asking ChatGPT to heat-proof our itinerary. Don’t worry, we are STILL going… but the trip may involve a little less frolicking through vineyards and a little more “where is the nearest AC?” Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Château de la Resle - Château de la Resle was a Mr. & Mrs. Smith property in the Hyatt Hotel portfolio, and recently changed to a Design Hotel in the Marriott portfolio - Check your hotels for air-conditioning in Europe! - New EU EES (EU Entry/Exit System) at airports
June 29 · 1 hr 15 min
Southwest Road Trip with Kids - Arches National Park, the Grand Canyon, and Scottsdale
Amy from Colorado joins me to share all about her family of five’s multigenerational Southwest road trip with her husband, their three kids (ages 3, 7 and 9), and her parents. They started in Northern Colorado and made their way to Moab, Utah to explore Arches National Park, then continued on to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon before ending with sunshine, pool time and spring training baseball in Scottsdale. On the way home, they looped back through Santa Fe, making this an epic road trip full of red rocks, big views, kid-friendly hikes, multigenerational memories and plenty of Southwest magic! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - MOAB: The Expedition Lodge, Moab Brewery, Fiesta Mexicana - ARCHES NATIONAL PARK: Balanced Rock, Double Arch, Windows Arch, Turret Arch, Sand Dune Arch, Delicate Arch Viewpoint - GRAND CANYON: Cameron Entrance, Yavapai Lodge, Maswik Lodge, The General Store, Mather Point, Geological Museum, Trail of Time, Bright Angel Trail, Arizona Steakhouse - Rim to Rim with 3,000 Miles to a Cure https://www.3000milestoacure.com/ - SCOTTSDALE: Holiday Inn Vacation Club, Rockies Spring Training, Cien Agave restaurant, The Sugar Bowl ice cream parlor - Santa Fe Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
June 24 · 53 min
Kelsey Unpacked: I Took My 8-Year-Old on a Work Trip to Clearwater Beach… and She’s Joining the Pod
I took my 8-year-old daughter, Elle, on a two-night work trip to Clearwater Beach, and it turned into the sweetest little mother-daughter getaway. I’m sharing all about our stay at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, the bunk bed room, pool days, gorgeous beach, sunset dinners, and what it was like bringing one kid along for the ride - plus Elle joins the pod to share her very honest review! This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Keyboard Clicker Fidget: https://amzlink.to/az0VtQQAhNptH - Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach - Sandwich: A Novel by Catherine Newman - Give Kids the World - Restaurants: Ocean Hai, Dock's, Crabby's - Pier 60 - Lemonade Mouth movie on Disney+ - Clearwater Marine Aquarium
June 22 · 1 hr 5 min
Hilton Head - Why This Family of 5 Loved It Enough to Return Two Spring Breaks in a Row!
Angela (@angelashellhaas) from Columbus, Ohio joins Trip Tales to share about how her family of five road-tripped to Hilton Head for Spring Break in 2025 and 2026 — and why it has become one of their favorite easy family beach getaways. In this episode, Angela shares what made Hilton Head worth returning to two years in a row: spectacular sunrises, biking on the beach, wide low-tide beaches perfect for kids, relaxing beach and pool days, yummy food, and an easygoing pace that made the whole trip feel like an actual vacation. From where they stayed to favorite restaurants, bike rides, beach routines, and road trip tips, this episode is full of practical ideas for planning a laid-back Hilton Head spring break with kids. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Angela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelashellhaas/ - CAVA Restaurant - Buc-ee's - Beach House Hilton Head - Hilton Grand Vacation Club Ocean Oak Resort - Coligny Plaza: Carolina Coffee and Crumbs, Sweet Al's, Piggly Wiggly, Lowcountry Celebration Park - The Village at Wexford: Java Burrito, Hilton Head Running Company - Sea Pines: Coast restaurant, Harbour Town Light House, The Quarterdeck restaurant in the light house, Salty Dog - Skull Creek: Skull Creek Dockside (takes reservations), Skull Creek Boathouse (more casual, no reservations), Hudson's on the River - Non-Seafood Restaurants: Fat Baby's Pizza, Giuseppi's Pizza, CharBar Co. Burgers & Sushi - Family Photographer: Danielle with Lamp & Light Photography Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
June 17 · 13 min
Kelsey Unpacked: I Figured Out TSA PreCheck Touchless ID… Kind Of
I’m unpacking TSA PreCheck Touchless ID - what it is, how to set it up, and why I couldn’t actually use it thanks to my very complicated name situation. Plus, a little summer catch-up and my latest can’t-stop-watching Netflix recommendation. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879
June 15 · 1 hr 41 min
Dominican Republic - Kelsey's FULL Trip Recap of Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana All-Inclusive with Kids
In this episode, I’m recapping our family of five’s first all-inclusive trip to the Dominican Republic and our stay at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. I’m sharing why we booked it, how we used points, and whether this popular resort lived up to the hype. I’ll walk through the rooms, pools, beach, food, activities, water park, Scape Park excursion, nightly shows, and all the little details you'll want to know before booking. Spoiler alert: we may not be cruise people, but we are officially all-inclusive people! If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Hotel Room Upgrade Guide: https://kelsey-graves.kit.com/e1c6074077 - Packable Hammock Floats: https://amzlink.to/az0SlaCwsUzUA - Hyatt Ziva Cancun - How to book Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana on points - Room we originally booked: Junior Double Suite with a Sofa Bed - Southwest Airlines - Dominican Republic E-Ticket - ChatGPT Packing Lists - TSA Precheck Touchless ID - DAT Transfer - Favorite Restaurants: Tempest Table, El Mercado, Coffee Republic, Noodle & Thread, Prontoz, Journey's - Scape Park Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
June 10 · 26 min
Kelsey Unpacked: We Are, In Fact, All-Inclusive People!
In this quick Kelsey Unpacked episode, I’m reporting back from our very first family all-inclusive vacation - and I’m happy to say that we are, in fact, all-inclusive people!!! We may not be cruise people, but this trip gave us: space to spread out, endless food and drinks, fun activities, beautiful pools, and the freedom to say yes without thinking about the bill! I’m also sharing a quick sargassum update from the Dominican Republic, what surprised me about Cap Cana, and our Global Entry success story after flying home internationally with the whole family. A full Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana Trip Tales recap is coming next, but this is my quick first reaction while it’s all fresh! Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves
June 8 · 1 hr
Lima, Peru - Surf Lessons, Sandboarding, Penguins, Sea Lions & So Much More Than a Stopover
Kelsey sits down with Kelly from @have.kids.will.adventure to talk about her family of 5’s week-long trip to Lima, Peru in February 2026. Looking for somewhere with warmer ocean water than New England in the winter, Kelly booked Lima on points without realizing just how much there would be to do with kids. In this episode, Kelly shares why her family skipped Machu Picchu this time and instead spent the week enjoying Lima as a destination all its own. They stayed in Miraflores, took surf lessons, made chocolate at a chocolate-making class, explored the city, watched stunning sunsets, and took a big day trip for penguins, sea lions, dune buggies, and sandboarding. Kelly also shares the real-life travel moments too, including a very long bus day, a VRBO elevator/key mishap, what it was like visiting Lima with kids ages 10, 8, and 5, and why Lima surprised them in the best way. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Ride Safer Carseat Vest: https://amzn.to/49G9Ele - Machu Picchu - Miraflores - Parque Kennedy - Malecón de Miraflores (6-mile cliff top walking path) - Surfing lessons - ChocoMuseo - Chocolate Making Class - The Ballestas Islands - The Atacama Desert - Huacachina - Magic Water Circuit of the Reserve Park - Cabify = Uber - Huaca Pucllana Site Museum - Larco Museum - Park of the Legends Zoo
June 3 · 27 min
Kelsey Unpacked: Exactly How We Got Global Entry for Our Family of Five for $0
In this episode of Kelsey Unpacked, I’m sharing the unglamorous side of travel -forms, passports, government websites, and all the behind-the-scenes admin that happens before a family trip. I’m also breaking down exactly how we got Global Entry for our entire family of five for $0, why we chose it over TSA PreCheck, how the application and interview process worked, and why it may be worth doing before your next international trip. Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana - Dominican Republic E-Ticket - TSA Pre-Check vs. Global Entry - Credit Cards that cover Global Entry
June 1 · 1 hr 15 min
Banff - Skiing Canada’s Ski Big 3: Lake Louise, Sunshine Village & Norquay
Kyle is back on Trip Tales! After previously sharing about his all-inclusive ski trip to Club Med in Quebec and his epic trip skiing in Austria while visiting the German Christmas markets, Kyle returns to share another incredible family ski adventure. In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Kyle to recap his family of four’s spring break ski trip to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada in April 2026. They flew into Calgary, stayed in the walkable town of Banff, and skied Canada’s Ski Big 3: Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Norquay. Kyle shares tips on planning a late-season ski trip, navigating Ikon Pass options, flying with ski gear, where they stayed, favorite restaurants in Banff, and what it was really like skiing all three mountains. From wide-open bowls and incredible mountain views to poutine, rooftop hot tubs, and the cutest ski town vibes, this episode is packed with helpful logistics for anyone considering a family ski trip to Banff. This episode is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygraves If you’d like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.com Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygraves Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_graves Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygraves Join us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879 Mentioned in this episode: - Air Canada - Banff National Park - Trans-Canada Highway - Basecamp Suites Banff - Fairmont Lake Louise - Restaurants in Banff: Hello Sunshine Sushi, Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse, Banff Ave Brewing Co. - Caesar cocktail and poutine - Banff Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort: Sunshine Mountain Lodge, Mad Trapper's Saloon Trip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal’s Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.