Ready...Set...Vacation! with Erik the Travel Guy

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Travel Video - This Is Scrub Island Resort & Spa

My unforgettable journey to the British Virgin Islands, with a luxurious stay at the magnificent Scrub Island Resort and Spa, was a dream come true. From the moment I set foot on the pristine shores, I was enveloped in a paradise that felt straight out of a postcard.

Jazzed Up In New Orleans

Welcome to my unforgettable journey through the enchanting streets of New Orleans! In this teaser video, I give you a taste of what you can expect on your next visit and on our full episode of Beyond Your Backyard. 

Beyond Your Backyard - The Azores

In this episode, Erik travels across the Atlantic Ocean to learn what all the fuss is about in this undiscovered, island paradise. He learns more about the history and culture by talking with the locals, exploring on foot through the terrain, and showing you how viewers can explore for themselves. 

Travel Tip - A Beginner's Guide to River Cruising

River cruising has emerged as a captivating way to traverse the world's most enchanting waterways, providing travelers with a unique blend of luxury, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Travel Tip - Packing for International Travel

Who is excited to see the world? You’ve made your reservations (or not) and now it's time to pack. The tips below provide helpful tips for packing for an international vacation.

Erik's Note - Curacao

Did I mention I just returned from Curaçao? Did I mention I loved it? Consider yourself on notice…Curaçao is fantastic.

Destination Spotlight - Hilton Head Island, SC

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.

Five Romantic Vacation Destinations

Valentine’s Day is upon us (or was) and perhaps that annual observance reminded you to book a romantic getaway with your significant other. Perhaps an extended weekend in a place you both adore or a week-long romance extravaganza is in order?

My Trip to Half Moon Cay

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.

Holland America's Rotterdam

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.

Beyond Your Backyard - PA's Great Outdoors Region

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. 

Beyond Your Backyard - Yosemite Lake Tahoe

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!

Destination Spotlight - The Grand Canyon

Nature's beauty is on full display in Arizona. The Grand Canyon and its national park are truly awe-inspiring! Take a look at one of my favorite destinations in the United States.

Destination Spotlight - The Pocono Mountains

What was once known as the “honeymoon capital of the world” has evolved into a full on family destination. We’re talking about visiting the Pocono Mountains!

Destination Spotlight - Redlands, CA

You simply do not know Redlands, CA until you watch this video! 

The History of Chicago in 90 Seconds

Only have a moment? Here's a quick history lesson on Chicago. The birth of the city, Lake Michigan, the Chicago Fire, Gangsters...it's all here.

Destination Spotlight - Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Step into a world of luxurious accommodations. Nemacolin Woodlands Resort is located in Farmington, PA and is an excellent location for family fun! This video shows you what to expect during your stay.

Beyond Your Backyard - St Petersburg / Clearwater, Florida

In this edition of Beyond Your Backyard, Erik the Travel Guy seeks educational fun in the sun in St. Pete / Clearwater, Florida. This virtually undiscovered gulf coast destination is bursting at the seams with artistic flair. Erik dives into the mind of Salvador Dali, takes a colorful downtown walking tour, learns the art of glass blowing and samples BBQ from an iconic pitmaster. Thanks for watching, liking, subscribing and sharing these videos with your friends!

Travel Tip - How Not To Get Robbed On Vacation

Listen, while the world is a beautiful place  (see literally every video we’ve ever produced) there is always a chance you’ll run into the wrong element while traveling abroad.

Erik Hastings Biography

Erik Hastings, a.k.a. "Erik the Travel Guy"

Erik “the Travel Guy” Hastings is an EMMY award-winning television personality who speaks directly to consumers who can't afford to "get their vacations wrong". He is the host and managing editor of three internationally syndicated television series; "Beyond Your Backyard", “Food for Thought” and “Cruise Food”.

Erik leads an incredibly talented team of industry pros and is the editorial driving force of his platform. While the travel industry directly supports millions of families worldwide, Erik believes travel makes the world a better place. Through exploration and discovery, he has learned that travel brings cultures together and he eagerly shares that spirit with his viewers.

In 2005, Erik launched his own production company that specialized in creating high-quality, low-cost travel videos for online distribution, which has added “world traveler” to his resume. This enterprise encapsulates all of Erik’s true joys by combining video production, writing, discovery, adventure, performing and interacting with fascinating people in some of the most inspiring and beautiful travel destinations in the world. Since inception, he has amassed an impressive client roster including Hertz, The Greenbrier Resort, CruiseOne, Carnival, Pinehurst, Iberostar, and countless official tourism bureaus throughout the world.

In 2017, Erik and his creative team began production on "Beyond Your Backyard", a new educational travel series for Blue Ridge PBS. The series debuted in April of 2018 on Blue Ridge PBS and other public broadcasting stations and quickly gained national attention and new affiliates. Today, the series is seen by millions of viewers nationwide. The series is syndicated by NETA and carried on the CREATE Channel. In its first season, the series was honored by the industry with two EMMY awards for the show and its host.

In 2022, Erik formed a new venture (4:55 AM Entertainment Co.) with his longtime friend and creative partner Jason Zumwalt. His new company produces two series: “Cruise Food” and “Food For Thought”.

Erik spends (on average) about 25 weeks on the road per year. When he's not traveling, he spends time with his two daughters in the New York City area.

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