Travel Stories Unpacked

The Final Unpacking: Stories, Laughs, and Everything In Between

Share your travel stories and opinions with us! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2296140/open_sms] In this final episode of Travel Stories Unpacked, Ashley and Annie take one last ride through the stories, laughs, lessons, and bloopers that made this show so special. From silly moments behind the scenes to heartfelt reflections on what the podcast has meant to them, this farewell is packed with gratitude and good vibes. Whether you’ve been with us since day one or just discovered the show, thank you for listening, watching, commenting, and sharing your stories. We’re not disappearing—we’re just unpacking travel stories in new ways. 📺 Stay connected with us by subscribing to the KHM Travel Group YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/khmtravelgroup We’ll still be sharing updates, travel tips, and stories—just in a different format! 📬 You can still share your travel stories with KHM Travel by emailing us at TravelStoriesUnpacked@gmail.com. We’d love to hear from you! And remember: you’re not getting rid of us that easily.  This podcast is brought to you by KHM Travel Group. Learn more: https://bit.ly/TSU-KHMTravel

Unpacking the Trip That Left Annie in Stitches… Literally

Share your travel stories and opinions with us! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2296140/open_sms] ⚠️ Listener Discretion Advised: This episode includes graphic descriptions of an injury that may be unsettling to some listeners.  What starts as a dream adventure through Zion National Park — complete with e-bikes, epic hikes, sandboarding, and scenic views — quickly turns into a comedy of travel chaos involving lost gear, surprise injuries, and an unforgettable ER visit in Las Vegas. 😅 From action cams on canyon cliffs to bunk beds with slides, we’re sharing ALL the highs and lows of this whirlwind trip. Buckle up for one of our wildest episodes yet of Travel Stories Unpacked! In this episode of Travel Stories Unpacked, we’re diving into: 1. Wild hikes and national park highlights 🌄 2. A travel injury so gnarly it shut down our night in Vegas 💉 3. Why travel insurance is NOT optional 4. And how working with a travel agent can turn a travel nightmare into a story worth telling 🎒 Whether you’re hiking canyons or chilling by the pool, working with a travel agent means personalized support, expert recommendations, and real peace of mind. And don’t skip the travel insurance — because sometimes the wildest part of your trip isn’t what you planned. 💌 Got a story of your own? Email us at TravelStoriesUnpacked@gmail.com [TravelStoriesUnpacked@gmail.com]  This podcast is brought to you by KHM Travel Group. Learn more: https://bit.ly/TSU-KHMTravel

Why Everyone Should Use a Travel Agent Unpacked

Share your travel stories and opinions with us! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2296140/open_sms] May is a special time to recognize the impact of travel professionals — it's National Travel Advisor Month and National Travel and Tourism Week (May 4–10)! In this heartfelt episode of Travel Stories Unpacked, we’re honoring the incredible independent travel agents who make dream vacations a reality through passion, purpose, and expertise. Join hosts Annie and Ashley as they: * Share personal misconceptions about travel agents before joining the industry * Spotlight what it really means to be a modern travel advisor * Read powerful, first-hand stories from KHM Travel Group agents across the country 💼 Featured travel agents in this episode include: * Annamarie Gebar – Plaid Travel LLC * Darla Butler – Destinations by Darla * Linda Allen – The Abundant Life Traveler * Mandy Duff – Magic by Mandy * Rose Becerril – Andiamo Rose Travel * Wendy L Payne – Travel with Wendy * Zac Wilson – Daydream Vacations These stories highlight the heart of the travel advisor profession — from building women's travel clubs to overcoming personal battles, creating inclusive travel experiences, and much more. 🙌 A huge THANK YOU to all of our agents for being part of the KHM Travel Group community and for the meaningful work you do every day. 👉 Are you looking to start your own travel business with KHM Travel Group? Visit our website to get started! https://bit.ly/TSU-get-started  This podcast is brought to you by KHM Travel Group. Learn more: https://bit.ly/TSU-KHMTravel

De-Influencing Travel: Unpacking the Insta-Vacation Illusion

Share your travel stories and opinions with us! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2296140/open_sms] This week on Travel Stories Unpacked, Ashley and Annie are diving deep into the trend of travel de-influencing. From Coachella clout chasers and van life glam shots to airport theory disasters, they’re unpacking how social media has shaped (and warped) our travel dreams. Are influencers the problem—or are we just too easily influenced?  Plus, are travel agents becoming the new influencers? Let's talk about the fine line between inspiration and misinformation. Join us as we talk candidly about authenticity, FOMO, and why some travel trends deserve to be left behind. Share your travel stories and opinions with us! Email Ashley and Annie at TravelStoriesUnpacked@gmail.com  Source: https://time.com/6989471/travel-influencers-climate-essay/ This podcast is brought to you by KHM Travel Group. Learn more: https://bit.ly/TSU-KHMTravel

Is AI Ruining Travel? Tech in Travel Unpacked

Share your travel stories and opinions with us! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2296140/open_sms] AI (artificial intelligence) seems to be here to stay, and it is changing the way people travel. Are these changes something to fear, or something to embrace? How does AI impact travel agents, and how can they use AI to their advantage?  We are sharing tips and tricks that travel agents can use to bring AI into their workflow and provide a better experience for their clients.  Share your travel stories and opinions with us! Email Ashley and Annie at TravelStoriesUnpacked@gmail.com  Sources: https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250106-the-seven-travel-trends-that-will-shape-2025   https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/07/08/1094733/how-to-use-ai-to-plan-your-next-vacation/ This podcast is brought to you by KHM Travel Group. Learn more: https://bit.ly/TSU-KHMTravel