On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writers Ryan Slough and Joelle Machia, founders of WanderersCompass.com, share their unforgettable adventure exploring more castles across Southern Wales.

From dramatic ruins perched on cliffs to well-preserved fortresses steeped in centuries of history, Ryan and Joelle dive into the cultural and historical significance of Welsh castles. Along the way, they uncover layers of history shaped by Roman influence, medieval conflicts, and evolving Welsh identity.

The conversation also highlights practical travel tips for exploring Wales and the UK, including the benefits of off-season travel, taking scenic detours, and navigating the countryside by car. Hear about standout sites like Raglan Castle, along with insights into the English Heritage Pass that makes visiting multiple castles more affordable.

Beyond castles, the episode touches on the charm of the Welsh people, the beautiful landscapes, local cuisine, and vibrant cities like Cardiff, offering a well-rounded look at what makes Wales a must-visit destination.

Whether you're a history buff, photography enthusiast, or curious traveler, this episode is packed with inspiration for discovering Wales—one castle at a time.

🌐 EXPLORE MORE WITH RYAN & JOELLE: - Blog: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ - Podcast: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ - Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/#p=1

🌐MORE ABOUT IFWTWA: - Website: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ - This Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ - Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

Featuring co-host Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of Travel Avoyelles, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel Avoyelles” Podcast highlights two of the region’s most exciting spring festivals that celebrate heritage, community, and tradition.

Special guest Ryan Lopez shares insights into the Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow (May 16–17, 2026) at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville. Discover the cultural significance of powwows, from traditional dance, music, and storytelling to educational programs, Native foods, and community connection. Learn about cultural etiquette, the powwow’s history, and the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions.

The episode also features Ramondo Ramos, who discusses the Cochon de Lait Festival (May 8–10, 2026) in Mansura—home of the Cochon de Lait Capital of the World. This beloved event celebrates Cajun culinary heritage with whole pig roasting over open fires, live music, contests, family activities, and a strong sense of community pride.

From Native American heritage to Cajun food traditions, this episode showcases how Avoyelles Parish brings people together through unforgettable cultural experiences.

LINKS & RESOURCES 🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com 🔗 Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow: https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/2026-pow-wow/ 🔗 Cochon de Lait Festival: https://www.cochondelaitfestival.com/index.html 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "World of Art" Podcast, we get to know artist and art historian Victoria Chick as she shares her creative journey, the power of curiosity, and the inspiration behind her work in art and community building.

From spearheading the development of a regional art museum in Silver City, New Mexico, to helping shape a creative “virtual home” through the Big Blend Media House, Victoria reflects on how art, travel, and observation influence both personal growth and cultural connection.

Victoria is a contemporary figurative artist, a collector of early 19th and 20th-century American prints, and the visionary leading the development of the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center in Silver City, New Mexico.

🌐 MORE TO EXPLORE - Artist Victoria Chick: https://victoriachick.com/ - World of Art Podcast: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ - Visit the new Big Blend Media House site (the foundation is being laid now so ignore the construction dust) and subscribe to its new "Front Porch News" Newsletter: https://bigblendmediahouse.com/