Unlike most ocean cruises that cater to the whole family, many perceive that river cruises are tailored only to adults. But this isn't necessarily true! In this episode, wellness travel expert and travel agent Barbara Tuckett uncovers a hidden gem of an experience: family-friendly river cruising. Forget about traditional kids' clubs – these cruises invite children to join in on the adventure alongside their parents and grandparents. From tailored activities to stunning scenery, we explore which ...
Apr 25, 2024•20 min•Ep. 101
It's our 100th episode! THANK YOU for your support by watching, listening, and sharing the Suite Dreams Wellness Travel podcast! In this episode, wellness travel expert and your host, Barbara Tuckett, celebrates the 100th episode with an extensive list of the 100 best travel items to pack, meticulously categorized into clothes, shoes, accessories, toiletries, electronics, first aid, miscellaneous items, and important documents to ensure a well-prepared and hassle-free trip. Want your own copy of...
Apr 11, 2024•23 min•Ep. 100
Barbara is freshly back from a river cruise conference in Amsterdam, and as part of trip, she embarked on a "tulip time" river cruise, which inspired this episode of the Suite Dreams Wellness Travel podcast. Tune in to learn about the nine best river cruises to celebrate holidays and seasons, highlighting destinations including cherry blossom viewings in Japan and Washington D.C., the Venice Carnival, a wine festival in Bordeaux, Oktoberfest in Germany, and many more! Learn about river cruises c...
Mar 28, 2024•21 min•Ep. 99
In this episode, Barbara dives into the world of stress-free vacations with important things to know about all-inclusive resorts. She breaks down what it truly means to be all-inclusive, from accommodation and dining options to activities and entertainment. Arm yourself with the insider knowledge you need to find the perfect all-inclusive resort and make the most of your time there. Learn tips about booking, including considerations like timing, and whether price should be your deciding factor. ...
Mar 14, 2024•24 min•Ep. 98
In this episode of the Suite Dreams Wellness Travel Podcast, host Barbara Tuckett takes you on an exciting journey through the world of river cruising! Beyond the popular European routes, Barbara explores lesser-known destinations across Africa, Asia, South America, North America, and Europe. From the majestic Chobe River in Africa to the historic Nile in Egypt, and the vibrant Mekong in Asia, each destination offers unique experiences, from wildlife safaris to cultural immersions. Barbara also ...
Feb 29, 2024•19 min•Ep. 97
Discover wellness and tranquility in the jungle! Casa Alternavida is a unique and tranquil boutique resort in Puerto Rico. Listen in to learn about how this beautiful property will help you to disconnect from the stress of daily life and reconnect with nature and yourself. Travel here on a solo trip and get customized experiences tailored to your needs, or book a group for a wellness retreat at the 8-room hotel. Casa Alternavida's team consists of coaches, nature guides, yoga, meditation, breath...
Feb 15, 2024•16 min•Ep. 96
Ready for a road trip of epic proportions? Buckle up because in this episode, Barbara Tuckett explores 5 incredible destinations perfect for a self-drive adventure! 1. New Zealand: Cruise through endless scenic landscapes, stopping whenever the whim strikes. Explore "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" filming locations. Choose from adventure-packed or leisurely itineraries, like the Bay of Islands coastal drive or a vineyard tour. 2. Scotland & Ireland: Immerse yourself in history and l...
Feb 01, 2024•20 min•Ep. 95
In this episode of Suite Dreams Wellness Travel Podcast, host Barbara Tuckett gives a detailed review of the Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas. She explores the various experiences the resort offers, from a range of water activities to private culinary sessions, all with an emphasis on connection and wellness. Offering a tranquil environment with beautiful views, the resort has no day spa access, which means it is never overcrowded. Whether you're after adventure activities or meditation a...
Jan 18, 2024•14 min•Ep. 94
In this episode of the Suite Dreams Wellness Travel Podcast, host and wellness travel expert Barbara Tuckett invites you on a Seine River cruise scheduled for October 2024. She and her husband have space on their Ama Waterways river cruise through France, and you can join them! Imagine sailing down the Seine, stopping at amazing destinations like Giverny, the Beaches of Normandy, Rouen and so much more. Experience fairy tale castles, wineries, and scenery that inspired some of the most famous ar...
Jan 04, 2024•11 min•Ep. 93
In this episode of the Suite Dreams Wellness Travel podcast, host Barbara Tuckett discusses the Barceló Maya Grand Resort complex in Cancun, ideal for wellness travel! Discover the Barceló Maya complex, which includes six interchangeable properties with different levels of luxury. You'll learn about all the properties within the complex, which allows visitors to stay in one, but enjoy the amenities of them all! Learn about the numerous amenities, such as restaurants, spas, fitness centers, water...
Dec 21, 2023•20 min•Ep. 92
Adventure down the Seine River with Greg and Kelly Green! In this episode, the Greens have a fun and frank chat with travel expert Barbara Tuckett about their recent Seine River cruise via Ama Waterways. Barbara is planning a group cruise with the same itinerary (only in reverse) in October of 2024 so if cruising through France is on your bucket list, you don't want to miss this episode! Greg and Kelly talk about their pre-and-post cruise options, as well as the amazing excursions offered along ...
Dec 07, 2023•40 min•Ep. 91
Rest is so important to avoid burnout and share positive energy with others! If you're feeling overwhelmed and neglecting your own well-being while catering to others, it might be time for a substantial self-care getaway. In this episode, Barbara discusses various rejuvenating experiences at places including Vera Via in Carlsbad, California, Grand Velas Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Cliff House in Maine, and Red Mountain Resort in St. George, Utah. Are you needing a self-care getaway and ...
Nov 23, 2023•25 min•Ep. 88
Wellness travel expert Barbara Tuckett is freshly back from celebrating her 30th wedding anniversary at the exquisite Atelier Playa Mujeres resort in Mexico! Located about an hour north of Cancun, this upscale adults-only retreat deserves some special attention. Learn the top 5 reasons to visit Atelier Playa Mujeres including the nearly seaweed-free location, the world-class, 38,000 sq ft. spa and the 13 top-tier restaurants. A truly elevated travel experience, this incredible retreat is perfect...
Nov 10, 2023•22 min•Ep. 90
Whether you're an avid traveler with an impressive passport collection or just daydreaming about your first cruise experience, this podcast is your compass for making the right choice for your next adventure. With her wealth of personal experience and in-depth knowledge, Barbara breaks down the critical factors that set river and ocean cruising apart. She offers a nuanced perspective, ensuring you're well-prepared to decide which cruise style aligns with your travel preferences. Plus, you'll rec...
Oct 26, 2023•28 min•Ep. 89
Known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, Costa Rica offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience wellness through connection with nature, oneself, and the local culture. In this episode, find out why Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for wellness travel. Barbara Tuckett, host and wellness travel expert, shares her passion for this vibrant country and highlights the variety of activities and sites that can be enjoyed by all sorts of travelers, from families, to co...
Oct 12, 2023•21 min•Ep. 88
Dive into paradise with our latest podcast episode! Today wellness travel expert, Barbara Tuckett takes you on a virtual trip to the enchanting islands of Kauai and Maui. Can't decide which Hawaiian island is right for your dream vacation or family getaway? Here is where you can solve your tropical island dilemma. Barbara takes you through the exciting activities, wildlife encounters, and distinct vibes of these two paradises, so you can pick the one that suits your style. Whether you're a beach...
Sep 28, 2023•19 min•Ep. 87
Join Barbara Tuckett, your host and owner of Suite Dreams Travel, as she takes you on an exciting journey through the world of wellness travel in this episode. Barbara's passion for travel and her dedication to enhancing wellness through travel experiences shine through as she explores the magic of European river cruises. In this episode, Barbara dives deep into the incredible variety of excursions you can enjoy on a European river cruise. From historic sites like fairy tale castles along the Da...
Sep 18, 2023•27 min•Ep. 86
Join Barbara Tuckett, wellness travel expert, as your host on the Suite Dreams Wellness Travel podcast. In this episode, we're embarking on a voyage to uncover and dispel the common myths about ocean cruising. Discover why ocean cruising is far more versatile than you might think! Barbara is a seasoned travel advisor with two decades of experience - and she began by booking cruises for clients. Now she specializes in wellness travel, connecting people with themselves, places, and each other. In ...
Aug 31, 2023•29 min•Ep. 85
Join wellness travel expert Barbara Tuckett for a gastronomic journey around the globe! She'll traverse Europe and North America for iconic dishes and cultural delights. From London's classic fish and chips to the vibrant tapas of Barcelona, to the rich flavors of New Orleans' gumbo, each destination offers a unique culinary experience. Explore the streets of Florence for the perfect gelato, and venture into Jamaica and St. Lucia to savor jerk chicken and Creole cuisine. If you're a travel enthu...
Aug 17, 2023•21 min•Ep. 84
In this episode, Barbara shares nine fantastic family adventure trips that are conveniently close to home, focusing on the U.S. and Mexico. From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon in Arizona to the tropical paradise of Puerto Vallarta, Barbara provides a captivating rundown of each destination's unique offerings. Dive into the turquoise waters of Cancun, explore the vibrant streets of New York City, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Take a journey to the breat...
Aug 03, 2023•24 min•Ep. 83
Short on time but craving an unforgettable European adventure? Look no further! Join wellness travel expert Barbara Tucket as she unveils a carefully crafted itinerary for a whirlwind 6-day trip to Barcelona and Paris. Whether you're planning to squeeze in a quick excursion before or after an overland tour or river cruise, we've got you covered! In this episode, Barbara shares her insider tips and tricks to maximize your 3 days in Barcelona and 3 days in Paris. From iconic landmarks to hidden ge...
Aug 03, 2023•20 min•Ep. 82
Looking for a memorable and bonding experience for your next family holiday? Get your passport ready, because Barbara is featuring 10 international destinations that provide thrilling family vacations! Family adventure vacations are a way to discover the world's wonders together in exhilarating ways. Which will you choose? This episode hits (almost) every continent and includes vacations with amazing natural wonders, animal encounters, water sports and cultural experiences that will leave your f...
Jul 06, 2023•16 min•Ep. 81
River cruises can be a unique and enriching way to travel, promoting wellness and connection with both the destinations you visit as well as the people you travel with. But there are many misconceptions about river cruising that may make you question whether or not it's really for you. In this episode, wellness travel expert Barbara Tuckett debunks nine common myths about river cruising, including misconceptions about cost, activity level, ages of cruisers, itineraries, and so much more. Dive in...
Jun 22, 2023•23 min•Ep. 80
Experience the breathtaking scenery and vibrant cities of New Zealand! In this episode, Barbara highlights the top 5 places to visit including gorgeous landscapes, vibrant cities, and a whole lot of Kiwi charm. You'll find unexpected activities for the adrenaline junky, perfect places to experience Maori culture, amazing adventures in nature and more. With plenty of city thrills and awe-inspiring natural wonders, New Zealand is the perfect destination for family travel or a honeymoon. Included i...
Jun 08, 2023•29 min•Ep. 79
Prepare to get inspired to pack your bags, gather the grandkids, and embark on incredible adventures together! In this episode, Barbara covers 10 amazing destinations that will thrill any generation. Travel is a powerful way to connect with family, and taking a trip with grandchildren is a great way to create special memories that will last a lifetime. Get ideas for all-inclusive trips, adventure tourism, family beach vacations, and even some overseas travel! Need more details or ready to book a...
May 25, 2023•24 min•Ep. 78
In this episode, wellness travel expert Barbara Tucket explores the amazing possibilities of activities in the Riviera Maya, Mexico. Whether you're looking for wellness travel, family travel, or simply a fun adventure, the Riviera Maya has it all. Listen in and learn what considerations to take before booking your excursions, including distance from your hotel, budget, and more. Some of the most popular types of excursions in the Riviera Maya are water-based activities. Find the ones that appeal...
May 11, 2023•29 min•Ep. 77
Traveling with family is a fantastic way to create connections and life-long memories. But traveling with kids can be overwhelming. The good news: it gets easier as you travel more often. Two of the best things you can do to make traveling with family go smoothly are: understanding what you're getting into, and preparing. Here are some ideas to help you create fun and low-stress travel experiences with your children. Learn how to manage expectations and avoid meltdowns when traveling with childr...
Apr 27, 2023•19 min•Ep. 76
☘️ Ireland is a magical country full of leprechauns & luck. Today wellness travel expert Barbara Tuckett shares random Irish info & tips to make sure your trip to the Emerald Isle is unforgettable. After the tips, you'll get a sample itinerary starting in London, then visiting Scotland for a few days, and finishing up with some amazing experiences in Ireland, including golf, pubs and dolmens (stone monuments). Enjoy! Are you ready for an Ireland vacation? Contact Suite Dreams Travel. As ...
Apr 13, 2023•27 min•Ep. 75
There are many European river cruise lines, but all are not created equally. Which is right for you? Wellness travel expert Barbara Tuckett gives an overview of six different cruise lines so that you can choose one of these amazing, luxury river cruises with confidence. At a recent river cruise conference in Budapest, Barbara toured the ships, spoke with the staff, ate the food, and experienced the services aboard ships from AmaWaterways, Amadeus River Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cr...
Mar 31, 2023•29 min•Ep. 74
Disney cruises are often thought of as being the gold standard for cruising, especially for those with children, but their price tags can scare people away. Today find out if a Disney cruise is worth the hype, (and the price) as wellness travel expert Barbara interviews her sister and daughter, Rachel and Raleigh, who both recently returned from the same cruise. One is a first-time cruiser and mother of four who traveled with her family. The other is married with no children and has cruised befo...
Mar 16, 2023•43 min•Ep. 73
