On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World" Podcast, travel writer Sharon K. Kurtz takes listeners on a personal Austin staycation, joined by fellow Austinite and travel writer Marika Flatt, travel editor and associate editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine.

Staying right on the UT Austin campus at the AT&T Hotel and Conference Center, Sharon walked to the Texas State Capitol, the Blanton Museum of Art, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum, caught a live taping of Austin City Limits, and ended her trip watching over a million bats stream out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Together, Sharon and Marika swap tips on live music venues, hidden-gem hotels, Lady Bird Lake, and the best spots for margaritas, museums, and shopping — everything you need for your own Austin getaway.

🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 📖 Check out the Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1 🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com 📰 Read more from Marika Flatt at Texas Lifestyle Magazine: https://texaslifestylemag.com

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz shares highlights from her unforgettable small ship cruise through Greece and Italy aboard Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Sailing the "A Piece of Greece, A Slice of Italy" itinerary, Sharon explains why small ship cruising offers a more relaxed, immersive, and personalized way to experience the Mediterranean.

From docking steps away from charming ports and exploring picturesque villages at your own pace to savoring local cuisine, breathtaking coastal scenery, and attentive onboard service, Sharon discusses what sets boutique-style cruising apart from larger cruise ships. She also shares why traveling during the shoulder season offers fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and excellent value.

Whether you're dreaming of your first Mediterranean cruise or looking for a slower, more intimate way to travel, this episode is filled with practical tips and inspiring experiences.

📝 Read Sharon's "Small Ship Cruising the Mediterranean" article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/small-ship-cruising-the-mediterranean

⛵ Learn more about Windstar Cruises: https://www.windstarcruises.com/

📖 Check out the Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1

🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com

🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz explores the timeless beauty of Charleston, South Carolina, Kiawah Island, and Savannah, Georgia, sharing highlights from an unforgettable Lowcountry journey filled with history, nature, coastal charm, and Southern hospitality.

Beginning in Charleston, Sharon discovers the city's rich colonial history, vibrant arts scene, historic neighborhoods, beautiful gardens, and acclaimed restaurants before attending a family wedding at the luxurious Sanctuary on Kiawah Island. She then heads south to Savannah, where charming public squares, centuries-old architecture, fascinating museums, rooftop bars, and scenic riverfront views reveal why the city remains one of America's most romantic destinations.

Along the way, Sharon shares memorable wildlife encounters—from dolphins and bald eagles to herons and alligators—along with recommendations for historic walking tours, harbor sailing excursions, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Bonaventure Cemetery, exceptional Lowcountry cuisine, and the welcoming culture that makes this region so special.

As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, Charleston, Kiawah Island, and Savannah offer unforgettable opportunities to experience the history, culture, landscapes, and hospitality that have helped shape our nation's story.

📝 Read Sharon's "Low Country Escape" article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/low-country-escape

📖 Check out Sharon's Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1

🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com

🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com