Join Steve and Karen Wilson for another Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" episode, this time visiting Souther Williams Vineyard in Fletcher, North Carolina, with owner Kenneth Parker. This conversation explores the beauty of the vineyard during the fall and winter seasons, from stunning fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway to cozy winter experiences by the fire. Kenneth shares the rich history of the bicentennial farm, unique European-style varietals, and the hands-on winery tours that make Souther Williams a must-visit destination.

Learn about vineyard hikes, wine tastings, and food pairings, plus seasonal events like the Wassailing hot mulled wine celebration, Thanksgiving trivia nights, and Valentine's Day murder mystery experiences. Steve and Karen also highlight the perfect winter getaway at their Lion & the Rose Bed and Breakfast, complete with cozy fireplaces, specialty breakfasts, and charming rooms for a memorable Asheville stay.

This episode emphasizes enjoying wine and family gatherings, taking time to get out of the house, and keeping conversations light and fun—sometimes the best advice is: “Don’t talk politics, just drink wine.” Whether it’s savoring a flight of unique varietals or strolling the vineyard, this episode is your guide to a relaxed, flavorful winter escape in Western North Carolina.

Guest & Host Links: - Souther Williams Vineyard: https://southerwilliams.com/ - Lion & the Rose Bed and Breakfast: https://lion-rose.com/ - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this on-location episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, hosts Terri and Ron Guthrie explore the River Road region of Louisiana, uncovering the fascinating history, plantations, and cultural significance that line the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

They visit and discuss some of the area’s most iconic sites including Destrehan Plantation — the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi River Valley — and Oak Alley Plantation, world-famous for its stunning canopy of oak trees and rich history. The conversation also highlights Houmas House and the Great River Road Museum, which presents an unfiltered look at Louisiana’s complex and layered past.

Throughout the episode, Terri and Ron reflect on the beauty of the Mississippi River, its impact on commerce and culture, and how its story is interwoven with the development of Louisiana’s plantations and small towns. The region’s culinary traditions, from rice and sugar production to modern-day Southern cuisine, also take center stage.

✨ As the conversation unfolds, it was discovered that their River Road journey followed part of the historic Jefferson Highway, a transcontinental route connecting Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans. The highway was officially established in November 1915 during a meeting in New Orleans, led by Edwin T. Meredith of Iowa with representatives from across the Louisiana Purchase states. Their vision created what became known as “The Palms to Pines Highway.”

This month marks the 115th anniversary of that historic meeting — making it the perfect time to celebrate the Jefferson Highway’s ongoing connection to the people, heritage, and landscapes of Louisiana’s River Road region.

🦆 With November being National Rice Awareness Month, this episode also touches on the area’s rice-growing history, which helped shape the region’s economy and cuisine.

🌐 Plan Your Visit - Houmas House and Gardens – https://www.houmashouse.com/ - Great River Road Museum – https://greatriverroadmuseum.org/ - Oak Alley Plantation – https://www.oakalleyplantation.com/ - Destrehan Plantation – https://www.destrehanplantation.org/ - Visit Ascension Parish – https://visitlasweetspot.com/ - Louisiana’s River Parishes – https://lariverparishes.com/tourist-commission/ - Visit Jefferson Parish – https://www.visitjeffersonparish.com/

🎧 New episodes of "Travel with Terri" air on Tuesdays: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

✨ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Road Trip Radio,” “Vacation Station,” “Way Back When,” and “Jefferson Highway” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this engaging episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Road Trip Radio," Route 66 expert and author Jim Hinckley takes us on a nostalgic and insightful journey down America’s most famous highway — the legendary Route 66. Jim’s latest book, “Route 66: 100 Years,” (Quarto, November 4, 2026) commemorates a century of this iconic road with stories, photographs, and essays that capture the spirit, history, and heart of “America’s Main Street.”

From the evolution of roadside attractions and the role of the military to the resurgence of road-tripping culture, Jim explores how Route 66 has become a living time capsule — connecting generations and travelers from around the world. He also shares insights on how to engage younger generations in preserving this enduring piece of Americana.

Learn more about Jim Hinckley and his work: - https://jimhinckleysamerica.com/

📘 "Route 66: 100 Years" takes readers state-by-state through the highway’s eight historic routes — from Illinois to California — featuring stunning imagery, memorabilia, maps, and essays by local experts. Get your kicks and your history fix with this must-have book for every traveler and road trip enthusiast! Check it out: https://www.quarto.com/books/9780760391488/route-66

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Way Back When," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork