🎙 Episode 174: Travel for Every Body

Guest: Jennifer Allen, Wonders Within Reach

On this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob welcomes back Jennifer Allen from Wonders Within Reach, a passionate advocate, writer, and mom to three who’s reshaping the conversation around accessible family travel.

From accessible national parks and theme parks to unexpected small towns doing big things for inclusion, Jennifer shares practical advice, inspiring stories, and essential resources for families traveling with mobility, sensory, or medical needs. Whether you're planning your first accessible getaway or looking to broaden your perspective on inclusive travel, this episode is packed with real talk and hopeful solutions.

🌟 In This Episode:

• The biggest misconceptions about accessible travel
• Top U.S. destinations and national parks that are leading the way
• What theme parks are getting right—and where they’re falling short
• Honest insights about air travel, gear, and accommodations
• How Jennifer’s family became "guinea pigs" for making travel more inclusive
• Resources, blogs, and apps to help plan accessible adventures

✈️ Key Takeaways:

• Accessibility starts with information: Many places are more inclusive than they appear—but poor online info holds families back
• Start small and plan smart: Less is more when creating an accessible, enjoyable itinerary
• Advocacy matters: Jennifer and her family work directly with destinations to improve access for all travelers

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Wonders Within Reach
• RentABLE
• Wheel the World
• National Ability Center
• TravelAbility’s Accessible Travel Map

📱 Connect with Jennifer:

• Website: wonderswithinreach.com
• Instagram: @wonderswithinreach

If you or someone you know is hesitant about traveling with a disability—this episode is your permission slip to go. Inclusion isn’t just a checkbox, it’s an invitation. And Jennifer shows us how to accept it.

👉 Subscribe, rate & review the show wherever you listen, and follow us on Instagram and Substack for more family travel inspiration.

🎒 Keep your hearts and your passports open — and we’ll see you out there.

The Family Vacationer – Episode 173: Finding Cheap Flights for Your Next Family Adventure with Katy Nastro from Going

Show Notes:

Looking to stretch your travel dollars without sacrificing adventure? In this episode, Rob chats with Katy Nastro, travel expert and spokesperson for Going—the flight deal app formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights. Katy shares insider tips, booking strategies, and real savings numbers that can help families score affordable airfare to dream destinations.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The origin story of Going and how it grew from a personal email list to a powerhouse travel app
• How Going’s team of flight experts and proprietary tech work together to find the best airfare deals
• The difference between Going’s free, premium, and elite memberships—and which is best for families
• Why flexibility is the “secret sauce” when it comes to airfare savings
• Smart booking strategies, including:
• Why searching for fewer seats can yield cheaper fares
• How to use the “Goldilocks window” to time your purchases
• The 24-hour cancellation rule families should be taking advantage of
• Why shoulder seasons are your best friend when planning affordable travel
• What mistake fares are—and how to grab one before they disappear
• Real-world examples of jaw-dropping deals (think NYC to Amsterdam for $334 round trip!)
• How Going plans to evolve beyond flights while still staying focused on traveler-first solutions

Helpful Links:

• Download the Going App
• Sign Up for a Free or Premium Membership
• Follow The Family Vacationer on Instagram
• Subscribe to The Family Vacationer on Substack

Quote of the Episode:

“We’re never going to send deals we wouldn’t send to our own friends and family. That’s the bestie test.” – Katy Nastro

Don’t Forget to Subscribe!

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. And remember—keep your hearts and your passports open.

Connect with Rob & Traci:

Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer

Website: www.thefamilyvacationer.live

🎙️ Episode 172: Exploring Hawaii – A Family Adventure

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob and Traci explore Hawaii—a stunning destination rich in culture and perfect for families. They’re joined by Robin Basso, a Hawaiian travel expert, who shares tips on choosing the right island, exploring responsibly, and making the most of a Hawaiian adventure.

🌴 Why Hawaii is Great for Families

• Ohana Spirit: Family is at the heart of Hawaiian culture.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and more.
• Family-Friendly Resorts: Accommodations with kids’ clubs and great amenities.

🏝️ Choosing the Right Island

• Oahu: Perfect for families who want a mix of city life, history, and beaches.
• Maui: Great for scenic drives, whale watching, and a relaxed vibe.
• Kauai: Ideal for nature lovers seeking a laid-back escape.
• Hawaii (Big Island): Best for adventurous families interested in volcanoes and diverse landscapes.

🎡 Top Family Attractions

• Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu): Hands-on cultural experiences.
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Big Island): Explore craters and lava tubes.
• Maui Ocean Center (Maui): Interactive exhibits perfect for kids.

💸 Budget-Friendly Tips

• Travel Off-Peak: Visit during spring or fall for better rates.
• Stay in Condos: Save money with full kitchens and extra space.
• Explore Free Activities: Enjoy beaches, hiking, and farmers’ markets.

🌊 Responsible Travel Tips

• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect marine life.
• Limit Plastics: Bring reusable water bottles.
• Respect Cultural Sites: Stay on marked trails and observe local customs.

🚗 Getting Around Hawaii

• Renting a Car: Best for flexibility and exploring beyond resorts.
• Public Transport: Great for staying in Waikiki.

🐢 Unique Wildlife Experiences

• Turtle Watching: See green sea turtles on Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.
• Whale Watching: Best between November and April.
• Dolphin Encounters: Enjoy respectful, eco-friendly experiences.

🍽️ Must-Try Hawaiian Foods

• Plate Lunch: Protein, rice, and macaroni salad.
• Kalua Pork: Slow-roasted and served at luaus.
• Spam Musubi: A popular local snack.

🌟 Top Beaches for Families

• Waikiki Beach (Oahu): Gentle waves and amenities.
• Hanalei Bay (Kauai): Calm waters and scenic views.
• Kaanapali Beach (Maui): Soft sand and nearby shopping.

📍 Mentioned in This Episode:

• GoHawaii.com – Explore events and activities.
• Malama Hawaii Program: Volunteer opportunities to give back.

✈️ Ready to Plan Your Hawaiian Adventure?

➡️ Subscribe to The Family Vacationer for more tips.

➡️ Follow us on Instagram for inspiration.

➡️ Check out our Substack for travel guides.

🎙️ Thanks for Listening!

“Keep your hearts and your passports open. Safe travels, everyone!”