After nearly a decade behind the mic, we're wrapping up the Vacation Mavens podcast with one final episode. Over the years, we've shared travel stories, destination inspiration, and countless tips to help families and moms plan memorable adventures. In this farewell episode, we take a moment to reflect on our journey and to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has listened, shared feedback, and traveled along with us.

Podcasting has changed a lot since we started nearly ten years ago, and as the space becomes more crowded, we've realized that it's time to focus on new ventures. Both of us are now working as travel advisors, helping clients plan the kinds of meaningful trips we've always loved talking about here. It's bittersweet to step away, but we're excited for what's next — and so grateful for the community that's supported us.

Stick around for some laughs, too, as we share behind-the-scenes stories from our favorite travels together. It's a fun and fitting way to close this chapter of Vacation Mavens and celebrate all the memories we've made, both on and off the road.

Thank you for being part of our journey — and for making the last ten years such an adventure.

Dreaming of Alaska? In this episode of Vacation Mavens, Kim and Tamara take listeners beyond the traditional cruise routes to discover one of Alaska's most beautiful — yet often overlooked — national parks. Kim shares her experience visiting Kenai Fjords National Park, including her stay at the secluded Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge on Fox Island and a breathtaking boat tour through glacier-filled fjords. Whether you're planning an Alaska cruise or looking for a unique land-based adventure, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for exploring Alaska's wild beauty.

Episode Highlights:

• Why Kenai Fjords National Park deserves a spot on your Alaska itinerary — a stunning fjord-filled national park near Seward that many travelers miss.
• How to get there: Fly into Anchorage and drive about two hours to Seward, where most Kenai Fjords adventures begin.
• Where to stay near Seward: Kim overnighted at the Windsong Lodge — a comfortable, lodge-style hotel popular with campers and cruise guests.
• Don't miss: Resurrection Coffee in Seward, a charming café housed in an old church (arrive early — the weekend line can stretch 30 minutes!).
• The Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge experience:
  • Located on remote Fox Island and accessible only by boat.
  • Just eight guest rooms, creating an intimate and unplugged stay.
  • Welcoming staff greet guests with local juice and take care of all luggage.
  • Lodging includes meals, activities like painting and nature walks, and optional upgrades such as sea kayaking tours.
• Relaxation and reconnection in nature: Guests can unwind with activities like:
  • A wood-fired sauna and cold plunge in the fjord.
  • A sound bath meditation session with singing bowls.
  • Painting classes overlooking the cove.
  • Optional kayaking tours spotting puffins, sea stars, seals, and even a porcupine on the island.
• Tips for visiting the lodge:
  • Plan for limited cell service and Wi-Fi — it's a true unplugged getaway.
  • Bring a portable battery pack, since cabins have minimal outlets.
  • Be patient with the shower temperature and remember: it's a wilderness lodge, not a luxury resort.
  • Cabins are cozy and rustic but the chef-prepared meals are outstanding, with fresh, locally inspired dishes and personalized service.
• Included experience: A 5–6 hour Northwestern Fjords Boat Tour, featuring:
  • Up-close views of glaciers calving into the sea.
  • Stellar sea lion colonies, puffin nesting sites, and eagles.
  • Possible humpback whale sightings (best from June–July).
  • A fun "glacier margarita" made with real glacial ice.
• Best time to visit: May through September — but book early since space is limited and repeat guests often return year after year.
• Why this makes the perfect cruise add-on:
  • Ideal for unwinding after a busy Alaska cruise.
  • Offers a chance to experience "the real Alaska" — far from the crowds.
  • Great for couples, families, or anyone craving quiet time in nature.
• Travel planning tips:
  • Book Alaska cruises early for the best cabin choices and pricing.
  • Be aware that Seattle and Vancouver hotels will be scarce in July 2026 due to the World Cup.
  • Anchorage hotels also fill quickly — plan ahead if you're extending your trip.
• New resource for travelers: Kim announces the release of her Alaska Cruise Guidebook, filled with practical advice on choosing cruise lines, excursions, and packing tips for Alaska travel.

Planning your first trip to Paris? In this episode of Vacation Mavens, Tamara and Kim talk about Kim's first visit to the City of Light — and what first-time visitors need to know before they go. From choosing the best neighborhoods to stay in and navigating the arrondissements to tips for visiting top attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame, this episode is filled with practical advice and insider tips for making the most of your Paris experience. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a girls' trip, or a mother-daughter adventure, this conversation will help you fall in love with Paris from the very start.

Episode Highlights:

• Kim shares her first impressions of Paris and what surprised her most about the city

• Why five days is the ideal length for a first visit to Paris

• Tips for understanding Paris's arrondissements and how to choose the best neighborhood for your stay

• Favorite areas for first-time visitors, including Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Le Marais, and the Latin Quarter

• Why staying near the Seine makes exploring Paris so much easier

• French pharmacy finds — what to buy and why La Roche-Posay products in France are different from what's sold in the U.S.

• Eiffel Tower advice: when to book tickets, how to choose between levels, and the best viewpoints to see the tower sparkle at night

• River cruises in Paris — from budget-friendly sightseeing options to the luxurious Alain Ducasse dinner cruise experience

• Why Tamara and Kim both recommend skipping the large public boat tours and opting for a smaller or more premium experience

• Visiting the Louvre: how much time to plan, ticket and tour advice, and why a guided tour helps make the most of your visit

• Kim's favorite galleries and sculptures in the Louvre and tips for avoiding crowds around the Mona Lisa

• Other museum recommendations for art lovers, including the Musée d'Orsay, Musée de l'Orangerie, and Rodin Museum

• Updates on Notre Dame's reopening and how to reserve a free timed-entry ticket

• Tips for visiting Notre Dame, including how to use the free app for an audio-guided tour

• Why Paris lives up to its bucket-list reputation and how to balance sightseeing with time to simply enjoy being in the city