Did you know Europe is the world’s second smallest continent? That's right! Europe welcomes more than half of all the visitors in the world. As a matter of fact, seven of the 10 most visited countries in the world are European nations! Ancient history and diverse cultural heritage are two of the reasons people visit today.

The crew and I return to the capital of Arkansas in this episode of Beyond Your Backyard. Diversity in unique neighborhoods, a thriving downtown district, and outdoor recreation are all part of the fun.

Chicago is a classic American city filled with unique neighborhoods, stunning architecture, delicious food and lots to see and do!

Grab your binoculars and life vest and join Erik for a lake adventure! Get out on the lake with Erik as he discovers this gorgeous area and the phenomena of the Purple Martins that flock to this area every year.

Howdy from your favorite travel guinea pig! This week, we have a family theme throughout the offering and this theme brings up a few good points whether or not you have children. Keep reading.

Flying with children has never been easy. You’ve got to carry more bags, deal with more interruptions, and suffer the annoyed glares from your fellow passengers when your toddler decides to throw a full volume fit at 35,000 feet.

Keep your kids busy, engaged, happy and entertained during your flight with this Kids Busy Bag and Amenity Kit! Perfect for long car rides, flights or rainy days indoors!

There’s only one! Come along with yours truly as I explore the one-of-a-kind town of Wytheville, VA. In this episode, I’ll take in the area's scenic, geographic beauty, meet with the proud local residents...

Hilton Head Island simply put, is a magical place. I visit almost every year with my family and extended family and it feels like a second home.

This special episode explores the men behind the office. We travel to Williamsburg to talk with Thomas Jefferson. We also visit the Bill Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock, Arkansas and to the George HW Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, Texas.

In light of the Daytona 500 on February 19th, I thought you might want to learn more about this iconic Florida beach paradise. 

Lafayette, LA isn’t called the “The Happiest City in America” just because it sounds good. It earned that name by being a community filled with good people who greet visitors with warm smiles, delicious food, and authentic, inclusive Cajun culture. By simply walking the streets of Lafayette, you will see what I mean. 

Ah, yes, Baltimore. The largest city in Maryland and yet it often gets overshadowed by its close neighbor Washington, DC. But believe me, Baltimore is a city ready to welcome you with open arms.

Welcome to February! This week, I’d like to mention a word on the timing of your vacation planning. If you have school-age children, then by now your Spring Break plans should be solidified. 

OMG! This private beach is exactly what dream vacations are made of! This is a private island/beach and very popular stop with Carnival Cruise lInes and Holland America. White sand beaches, crystal clear water, you have to see it to believe it.

You know what they say…meet me in Montauk! And in case you haven’t been, please allow me to expound. Montauk is located at the very end of Long Island (to the east) after the Hamptons. It is a charming beach community featuring miles of sandy beaches, lush, green state parks, quaint shopping and dining districts and plenty of accommodation options if you book in advance.

Step on board this amazing ship from Holland America. The Rotterdam. Rotterdam delivers the best of everything Holland does: exquisite cuisine, award-winning service, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, and world-class entertainment. At the heart of it is Music Walk®, an exclusive collection of live music performances. Be first to experience Rotterdam’s Pinnacle-class luxury on her inaugural voyages. You will find a mastery of the details that keep guests returning again and again.

A return visit to this region of Pennsylvania proves to be even more fun for the whole family! I'll show you more about the French and Indian war, discovers a wild Elk herd and so much more. I'll also explores Cook Forest State Park, get behind the gears of a missive piece of machinery and sample delicious rustic cuisine. 

Get ready to explore a gorgeous part of the United States! Erik and the crew start at Lake Tahoe and work their way south to Yosemite National Park. Outdoor recreation and panning for gold are part of the fun!

In Juneau, Alaska, I was granted exclusive behind the scenes access of the Taku Smokery.