Advertise on podcast: Me and the Magic

In this heartwarming episode of Me and the Magic, Amanda Bauner welcomes fellow travelers to recap their unforgettable group adventure through France. The conversation highlights their Paris explorations, a memorable Seine River cruise with AmaWaterways, and meaningful moments in Normandy and other ports of call. Hear practical travel tips, reflections on group travel dynamics, and plenty of laughter as the group shares favorite experiences, delicious food memories, and heartfelt takeaways from this magical journey. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the age-old travel dilemma: should you carry on or check your bag when flying? Drawing from her own upcoming adventure to France, Amanda breaks down the factors to consider, covering costs, airline policies, packing restrictions, trip duration, convenience, and peace of mind. She shares useful tips for making your decision, whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this heartfelt episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner pays tribute to the legendary Dolly Parton, reflecting on her remarkable life, philanthropy, and lasting cultural impact. Amanda guides listeners through destinations in Tennessee, Los Angeles, New York, and England where Dolly's legacy shines brightest, from Dollywood and the Grand Ole Opry to Broadway and more. Listeners are offered insights into both travel inspiration and Dolly's enduring spirit of kindness and generosity, making this episode a fond remembrance and a guide for fans seeking to celebrate the magic of Dolly through travel. Me and the Magic: Dollywood Episodes Episode 062: First Visit Tips from a Dollywood Insider. Episode 081: My Fabulous Fall Road Trip, Part 1 (where I recap my first visit to Dollywood and my stay at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort). Episode 085: When to Visit Dollywood (recap of the seasonal festivals, weather, etc.) Episode 102: What's New at Dollywood in 2023. Episode 170: Exploring the Unique Magic of Dollywood Episode 175: Highlights from Our Group Weekend at Dollywood Resources about Dolly Parton Dolly's Imagination Library - Donate today! Dolly Parton's America podcast series. Visit Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee.  Dolly's new SongTeller Hotel in Nashville Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum in Nashville "Dolly: A True Original" musical… coming to Broadway in December 2026. Tickets now on sale! "What an icon. What a talent. What a loss." - WeHo Online, by Brian Holt, August 25, 2026.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the importance of sustainable travel amid global climate challenges. She explains what sustainable travel really means and discusses the impact of tourism on climate change, using current examples from Europe's rivers and wildfires in North America. Amanda offers practical tips for reducing your travel carbon footprint and supporting local communities, while highlighting innovative sustainability initiatives across popular destinations.  Episode Resources "Extreme weather is drying up Europe's rivers in a crisis so dire it can be seen from space" - August 5, 2026, CNN. By Laura Paddison, Oliver Sherwood.  "Europe's tourism is booming. Who is paying the price?" - August 4, 2026. EU Perspectives. By Emma du Chatinier. Calculate Your Travel Carbon Footprint - Sustainable Travel International.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

Host Amanda Bauner continues the celebration of the 50 U.S. states, focusing on the South and West regions. She shares fun facts and top activities for each state, from Kentucky to Hawaii, blending her own travel experiences with community contributions. Listeners get recommendations for iconic landmarks, scenic destinations, unique events, and hidden gems across the country. Episode Resources National Geographic book: "50 States 5000 Ideas". HGTV article: "50 States of Free Fun: Museums, Gardens, Parks and More" by Lauren Oster, June 23, 2026. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

Host Amanda Bauner embarks on a virtual journey through the East and Midwest regions of the United States. She highlights each state's unique features, fun facts, and top activities, sharing personal stories and community favorites along the way. Whether it's savoring Maine's blueberry treats or exploring the historic streets of Virginia, Amanda offers engaging ideas for solo travelers and families alike. Join her for a celebration of America's diversity and discover new destinations to add to your travel bucket list! Episode Resources National Geographic book: "50 States 5000 Ideas". HGTV article: "50 States of Free Fun: Museums, Gardens, Parks and More" by Lauren Oster, June 23, 2026. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the value of flexibility in travel planning, sharing personal experiences and expert tips on navigating unexpected changes. From work commitments and health issues to weather disruptions and global events, she outlines the potential risks that make travel flexibility increasingly important. Amanda breaks down the costs and benefits of flexible bookings across flights, accommodations, cruises, tours, and car rentals, while highlighting the role of travel insurance and professional travel advisors. The episode offers practical advice for building peace of mind into any trip. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this warm and insightful episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes travel advisor Grace Korba to share her recent experiences and expert tips for visiting Disneyland Paris. Listeners hear about must-do attractions, dazzling shows, resort options, and practical advice for navigating the parks, whether solo or with a group. The episode also highlights recent and upcoming additions to Disney Adventure World, the unique food scene, and the ease of combining a Paris trip with Disneyland Paris.   Amanda and Grace wondered about single rider lines in this episode. The answer is that yes, Disneyland Paris has single rider lines available at 8 of its more thrill-ride attractions!   Connect with Grace Korba Connect with Grace Korba online on Facebook and Instagram, or email Grace at [email protected] . Also, you may contact Grace through MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the art of pre-trip rituals, both practical and personal, that help travelers get ready for adventures like her recent Disney cruise. She shares insights on everything from detailed itinerary planning and strategic packing to setting up home security, organizing travel documents, and prepping technology. Amanda also highlights sentimental rituals such as travel journals, cherished comfort items, and family heirlooms. Listeners will enjoy thoughtful tips and charming anecdotes to inspire their own joyful and organized travel routines before setting sail or hitting the road. Connect with Grace Korba Connect with Grace Korba online on Facebook and Instagram, or email Grace at [email protected] . Also, you may contact Grace through MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner shares her top Disney Cruise tips, drawing on her experience from eight previous sailings. She guides listeners through cruise planning, packing hacks, onboard dining, activities, stateroom organization, and shore excursion strategies. Listeners get practical advice for both first-timers and seasoned cruisers, including pro tips on booking, discounts, and maximizing relaxation.  Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Grace Korba, travel advisor with MEI-Travel and show sponsor, to discuss Grace's firsthand experiences aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, the Norwegian Luna. The conversation covers Luna's stunning design, innovative amenities, dining options, entertainment highlights, and unique features for solo travelers. Listeners also get tips on booking, Free at Sea offers, and planning for the upcoming Me and the Magic group cruise to Bermuda in August 2027.  Connect with Grace Korba Connect with Grace Korba online on Facebook and Instagram, or email Grace at [email protected] . Also, you may contact Grace through MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

Host Amanda Bauner welcomes Amanda Black, founder of The Solo Female Traveler Network. They dive into the power of community for women traveling solo, sharing inspiring stories of connection, safety, and empowerment. Amanda Black reveals how her own solo travel journey after personal loss led her to create a global support network for women. The episode also highlights the unique experiences offered on women-only group tours, the importance of cultural awareness, and how shared firsts foster deep friendships among travelers.   Connect with Our Guest Connect with Amanda Black at The Solo Female Traveler Network.   Watch Amanda Black's TEDx Talk about Shared Firsts: Redesigning How We Find Belonging on YouTube here. Upcoming Events Learn more about our 2026 Seine River cruise, round-trip from Paris, here.  Learn more about our 2027 Norwegian Luna cruise to Bermuda from NYC here.   Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In Episode 179 of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner dives into the reasons why women choose to travel solo. She shares personal experiences, explores survey data, and highlights the growing trend of learning-based and small group travel among women. Amanda discusses the empowerment, self-discovery, and freedom solo travel offers, debunks common misconceptions, and describes how solo journeys can strengthen relationships and promote self-care.  Episode Resources Travel + Leisure, "Why More Women Are Traveling Solo, Together" by Lori Rackl. Published on May 8, 2025. Travel Bug Tonic, "Why solo travel? Untangling the reasons why women travel alone."  Upcoming Events Learn more about our 2026 Seine River cruise, round-trip from Paris, here.  Learn more about our 2027 Norwegian Luna cruise to Bermuda from NYC here.   Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Sarah Magnoni, founder of Cobblestones and Castles, for a deep dive into solo women's travel with a historical feminist twist. They discuss Sarah's unique small-group trips for women exploring Ireland, Scotland, England, and France, where history, literature, and women's empowerment intersect. The conversation touches on meaningful solo travel experiences, cultivating community, and the importance of embracing both adventure and intuition.  Connect with Our Guest Connect with Sarah Magnoni at Cobblestones & Castles. Join Sarah's Facebook group, The Cobblestone Collective: Historical Feminism Travel Group. Upcoming Events Learn more about our 2026 Seine River cruise, round-trip from Paris, here.  Learn more about our 2027 Norwegian Luna cruise to Bermuda from NYC here.   Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!

In this heartfelt episode, host Amanda Bauner candidly shares her personal struggles amid political turmoil in the U.S. She discusses the impact of current events on her travel plans and explores why finding joy is especially important during challenging times. Amanda offers practical tips for cultivating joy in daily life and travel, emphasizing the value of community, resilience, and meaningful connections.  Resources from This Episode February 2025 Psychology Today article: "The Importance of Joy in the Darkest of Times" authored by F. Diane Barth, LCSW. HelpGuide.org's article: "Finding Joy During Difficult Times" authored by Stephanie Mihalas, PhD, and ABPP. Me and the Magic Episode 124: Microadventures for the Solo Traveler. Me and the Magic Episode 159: Why Your Travel Plans and Goals May Change. Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, cruises, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic you'd like us to discuss? Email Amanda at [email protected].   Subscribe to the Me and the Magic weekly newsletter for exclusive content, including solo travel tips! Me and the Magic has voicemail! Leave a voicemail or text to 1-347-74MAGIC (1-347-746-2442). Share your thoughts about this episode, a future episode topic idea, or just say hi! Podcast Subscribe to this podcast so you will be the first to hear new episodes!  If you are enjoying the podcast, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could rate and review it on Apple Podcasts. The reviews help other people find this podcast.  Online Shop Buy some fun travel and pop culture shirts and more, at our online shop!