Kelsey sits down with Theme Park Journalist and Disney expert Carlye Wisel from the Very Amusing podcast to dive into everything you need to know about the Disney Treasure cruise ship. From the brand-new Haunted Mansion Parlor to the immersive Plaza de Coco restaurant, this episode covers it all! This episode is presented by Level 8 Luggage . Use code PreAS20 for 20% site-wide in July! I'm loving the 20-inch Luminous Carry On in Pink. Buy Me a Coffee Mentioned in this episode: - Disney Cruise Li...
Jul 07, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 68
In this special episode, Kelsey's kids take over to share their favorite trips, dream destinations, and honest thoughts about life with a travel content creator mom! From waterslides and connecting rooms to Summit One and the Jellycat Diner in NYC, they spill all the details on their favorite adventures — and yes, they roast Mom along the way. They talk about the best parts of: Skiing in Park City, Utah Exploring New York City Disney Cruise Line Walt Disney World Universal Studios Orlando Plus, ...
Jun 30, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 67
In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Martha from The Next Chapter Travel , a company that curates small luxury trips for women. Martha shares all the details of their unforgettable 5-star journey across Ireland — from spa treatments to falconry, fine dining to pub hopping, castle stays and countryside views in October 2024, Their itinerary highlights include Adare, Killarney, Kenmare, Cork, and Dublin, with overnight stays at some of Ireland’s most celebrated properties: Adare Manor , The Park...
Jun 23, 2025•47 min•Ep. 66
Join Kelsey as she chats with Angie from @angies.travel.tips , a mom of 4 boys, about their unforgettable island-hopping adventure across Oahu, Kauai, and Maui in March 2025! From snorkeling with sea turtles and cliff jumping to cage diving with sharks, this trip was full of epic moments—and Angie paid for their Hilton and Hyatt stays entirely with points. Hear about their favorite beaches, must-try shaved ice, and magical Hawaiian family moments! This episode is presented by: The Next Chapter T...
Jun 16, 2025•1 hr 55 min•Ep. 65
Kelsey is recapping her family of five’s trip to Arizona in May 2025 where they used Chase Ultimate Rewards points to cover nearly all their hotel stays! From insane views at the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend to exploring Antelope Canyon and spotting animals at Bearizona, this trip was packed with adventure. And of course, it ended just right at a luxury Scottsdale resort with poolside food and drinks. Tune in to hear the full itinerary, travel tips, and the hilarious mistake Kelsey made buyin...
Jun 09, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 64
Kelsey has been to Marco Island a dozen times and in this episode, she’s sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip! From the best hotels and cost-saving tips to her favorite restaurants, sunset spots, and can’t-miss activities, this is your complete guide to one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the U.S. Follow Kelsey on Instagram Buy Me a Coffee to support the Trip Tales podcast Mentioned in this episode: - Episode 1: Marco Island, FL - Staying at the Hilton with Ni...
Jun 02, 2025•46 min•Ep. 63
Kelsey sits down with Raya from the Travel Party of 5 podcast to hear all about her and her husband’s much-needed couples getaway to the stunning Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman. From swimming in glowing bioluminescent waters to experiencing Starfish Point, their July 2024 escape was the perfect reset. They loved it so much, they’re already planning to return with the kids. If you're dreaming of turquoise waters, luxurious accommodations, and family-friendly adventure, this episode is for you. B...
May 26, 2025•43 min•Ep. 62
Kelsey sits down with Katie from Katie’s Travel Tricks and the Points for Normal People podcast to break down two of the most popular family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts: Hyatt Ziva Cancun vs. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana in Punta Cana. Katie has visited both properties with her kids and gives a detailed comparison of everything from the pools and food to the beaches and waterslides. Which one reigns supreme for her family and keeps them coming back? Tune in for all the insider tips, pros and cons, an...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 61
In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Nikki from @PackinPoints to hear all about her family of 6's (4 kids ages 9 - 18) epic adventure across Italy and Switzerland in June 2024 — much of it paid for with points and miles! Nikki shares how they fell in love with the rolling hills of Tuscany, gives a hot take on Florence, and describes rock-jumping into crystal-clear waters in Cinque Terre. Plus, they explore a breathtaking Swiss village with literally 72 waterfalls. Buy Me a Coffee! Mentioned in...
May 12, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 60
Kelsey is joined by longtime St. John visitor Christy, who has been traveling to this Caribbean gem for years with her family of four and often with a full crew of extended relatives. From the timeshare villas at The Westin to iconic beach bars like the Soggy Dollar, Christy shares her go-to beaches, can't-miss restaurants, and the boat day tradition that always steals the show. Plus, hear about the floating pizza boat you have to try and the surprising moment Kelsey wonders… is it even legal to...
May 05, 2025•53 min•Ep. 59
In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Katie from KG Travel Co. to hear all about her spring break trip with her family of four to Las Vegas, Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon. From transforming Vegas into a kid-friendly adventure with a scavenger hunt, to avoiding the infamous three-hour shuttle lines in Zion with a genius e-bike rental hack - Katie shares practical tips and heartwarming moments from their journey. But the true showstopper? A stay at The Grand Ranch in Cedar City, Utah—where...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 58
Kelsey sits down with guest Kristen, who just returned from an unforgettable 8-night trip sailing through the British Virgin Islands in February 2025. Kristen’s family of four teamed up with another family—both with kids ages 8 to 12—to charter a fully crewed catamaran called Wanderlust ( photos of catamaran , and Wanderlust on Instagram ) departing from the island of Tortola. With a captain and private chef on board (husband and wife team Captain Dean & First Mate / Chef Charne), they islan...
Apr 21, 2025•59 min•Ep. 57
In this episode, Kelsey sits down with expat mom Brittani, who moved from Phoenix, Arizona to the Netherlands with her family of five. As a long-time Disneyland California fan, Brittani has now visited Disneyland Paris twice (Spring 2024 and December 2024) - and she’s sharing everything you need to know before you go. From the decadent breakfast spread at the Disneyland Paris Hotel to must-ride attractions like Crush’s Coaster (only found here!), Brittani gives a full breakdown of what makes Dis...
Apr 14, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 56
In this episode, Kelsey chats with Mary Ellen from the Wonderland on Points podcast and @familytravel4thewin on Instagram to hear all about her family of 5's 4-night getaway to the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in the Bahamas. Traveling in January 2025, Mary Ellen shares how she booked both flights and hotel entirely on points, plus her tips for saving on food while still enjoying the best the resort has to offer. From daily fun at the Baha Bay waterpark (included in your stay!) to choosing budget-friend...
Apr 07, 2025•57 min•Ep. 55
In this heartfelt episode, Kelsey sits down with Giovanna Silvestre, author of Confused Girl and @confusedgirlla on Instagram, to talk about her unforgettable month living on the Amalfi Coast. From mid-October to mid-November 2023, Giovanna stayed in an AirBNB with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, immersing herself in the beauty and rhythm of local life. She opens up about how this magical stretch of Italian coastline became a place of healing as she grieved the loss of her father and f...
Mar 31, 2025•48 min•Ep. 54
I'm back from an amazing spring break in New York City with my family of 5 and I'm sharing all the details! In this episode, you’ll hear how we made the most of 4 nights and 5 days in the Big Apple (March 2025), from iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty and Summit One to navigating the subway and seeing SIX on Broadway. I break down how I planned the itinerary, found a hotel room that fit all five of us, and kept the kids engaged in one of the busiest cities in the world. Mentioned in this e...
Mar 24, 2025•1 hr 36 min•Ep. 53
In this episode, Kelsey welcomes Katie Kinley from @katiekinleytravels to share about her experience on the Disney Wish cruise ship. Katie and her family of 5 recently sailed on the Disney Wish for a 4-night Halloween on the High Seas cruise to Nassau and Castaway Cay, and she’s here to break down their experience. From ship highlights and what it’s really like to cruise Disney with three kids, to snorkeling on Disney’s private island, Katie shares why her family loved every minute. But the adve...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 50 min•Ep. 52
In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Annie from @letstraveltalk on Instagram to hear about her family of 5's adventure to Costa Rica in November 2024. From beach days at the Hyatt Andaz Peninsula Papagayo to the rainforest surrounding Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, Annie shares how Costa Rica delivered the perfect blend of adventure and nature. The family’s trip included rappelling down waterfalls, jet skiing along the scenic coastline, and zip lining in the rainforest. They also spent time...
Mar 10, 2025•51 min•Ep. 51
Kelsey's Chase Sapphire Preferred Referral Link In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I’ve been booking incredible vacations for my family without spending a dime on hotels. It all comes down to: transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt . I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, explain why Hyatt is the best transfer partner, and show you how to maximize your points for free stays at high-end resorts. Mentioned in this episode: - The Trip Tales website: www.triptalespodcast....
Mar 03, 2025•21 min•Ep. 50
Kelsey sits down with Erika to chat about her family of five’s December 2024 ski trip to Copper Mountain , just outside of Denver, CO. Having skied at many of the top U.S. ski resorts, Erika shares why Copper Mountain stood out as a hidden gem. From its family-friendly vibe, fun restaurants, and wide-open slopes with no lift lines, to unique activities like ice skating on a real pond under Edison lights and experiencing the best snow tubing they’ve ever done, Erika explains why Copper was the pe...
Feb 24, 2025•54 min•Ep. 49
In this Trip Fails Minisodes episode, we’re diving into three mini Trip Fails stories that didn’t quite go as planned. First, Katie shares her experience at The Kingsley in Bloomfield Hills, MI in November 2024 - a hotel that gives off swanky boutique vibes but, surprise… it’s actually a DoubleTree by Hilton in disguise. Spoiler: the experience didn’t match the luxury look. Next, Tali recounts how she got stuck in a timeshare scam at Westgate Orlando Lakes in 2018, learning the hard way why thos...
Feb 17, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 48
Kelsey sits down with Faith, a seasoned Turks & Caicos traveler who has visited three times (May 2019, May 2022, and May 2023) - and loved Seven Stars Resort so much, she’s returned twice. Faith shares why this boutique-style resort stands out, from its swanky yet serene atmosphere to its top-tier hospitality, family-friendly vibe, and unbeatable location on Grace Bay Beach. Plus, she dives into the best restaurants (including a Kardashian fav!) and must-do excursions across the island, givi...
Feb 10, 2025•56 min•Ep. 47
Kelsey chats with Jessica from the Sugar Daddy Podcast about her family's Christmas trip to Panama! Jessica, her husband, and their two kids spent a week in December 2024 exploring the country's beaches, rainforest, and vibrant Old Town Panama City. From spotting monkeys and sloths in the wild to soaking up the local culture, they fell in love with Panama—and they're already talking about a return trip! Mentioned in this episode: - Copa Airlines - Westin Playa Bonita - Executive Club Level - Gam...
Feb 03, 2025•51 min•Ep. 46
Kelsey chats with Genni from @travelingfranklins on Instagram, the Traveling Franklins blog, and the popular Lazy Budget Travel Tips Facebook Group . Genni shares the story of how she treated her mom to an unforgettable retirement trip to Spain, using points and miles, in May 2024. They flew business class, and visited Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona. From the delicious food to Spain's rich culture and spectacular architecture, this trip was one for the books. Tune in to hear all about their adve...
Jan 27, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 45
Kelsey sits down with Joy Smith from @savvytravelmamas to hear all about her mother-son adventure in July 2024. Joy shares how this trip led them to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and colors she’s ever seen! From the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend to the striking Vermilion Cliffs and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, every stop had breathtaking views. They also explored nostalgic Route 66 and wrapped up their journey in Las Vegas. Mentioned in this episode: Joy's Points Travel Academy 4t...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 44
In this episode of Trip Tales , Kelsey shares all the details from her family’s winter getaway to Park City, Utah! Tune in as she recaps why skiing on The Canyons side of Park City Mountain Resort is their favorite. But it wasn’t all smooth skiing! Kelsey dives into how they navigated the unexpected Ski Patrol Strike and what it meant for their time on the slopes. Plus, she shares their go-to restaurants and how they rang in the New Year in Park City. Mentioned in this episode: My ski outfit: Am...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 43
After the buzz (and backlash) from Episode 36, where a guest shared their disappointing experience at Beaches Turks & Caicos, two passionate listeners reached out to set the record straight. They love this resort and consider it the ultimate family all-inclusive destination—and they’re here to tell you why. In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Kari, a loyal podcast listener who has visited Beaches Turks & Caicos twice with her family and already has her third trip booked. Joining her i...
Jan 06, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 42
In this episode of Trip Tales , Kelsey sits down with Rosie from Venture's Valentina to explore her deep love for Riviera Maya, Mexico. Having visited the area six times, Rosie shares why Secrets Akumal stands out as her favorite adults-only resort. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the popular tourist spots, Secrets Akumal offers a true escape with its romantic, laid-back vibe. Rosie dives into what makes this resort so special, from its stunning, serene beach—one of the best in the re...
Dec 23, 2024•47 min•Ep. 41
In this milestone 40th episode, Kelsey is taking you back to her 40th Birthday Girls Trip to the all-inclusive Atelier Playa Mujeres in Mexico! Joining her are her besties who shared the adventure in February 2023, and together they’re dishing on all the hilarious stories, shenanigans, and unforgettable moments from the trip. From the food and cocktails to insider resort tips, parasailing, and poolside laughs, this episode is packed with everything you need to know about this destination. Mentio...
Dec 16, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 40
In this episode of Trip Tales , Kelsey shares all the details from her recent Thanksgiving trip to 30A Florida. From the best (and worst) places to stay to her favorite restaurants and must-try activities, she gives an honest rundown to help you plan your own visit to this beautiful coastal area. Plus, she reveals the family games that made their holiday extra fun! Mentioned in this episode: EDIT: The best donut place on 30A is called DONUT HOLE (not Donut Den as I say in the episode) 30A Commun...
Dec 09, 2024•49 min•Ep. 39
