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Explore every episode of Had To Be There

Dive into the complete episode list for Had To Be There. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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Pub. DateTitleDuration
19 Sep 2022031 | Sicily00:32:27

Meet Harker, a #1 Amazon best-selling author, member of the LA Drama Critics Circle, Broadway World contributing writer, and Mensa member. Join us as Harker whisks us away to a charming Sicilian wedding.

Connect with Harker:

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Interested in booking a visit to Sicily for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

14 Mar 2022007 | Tammy Tuckey00:30:32

Meet Tammy, an Emmy-award winning filmmaker, actress, podcaster, and singer. As host of "The Tammy Tuckey Show," she invites actors, composers, and cast members to talk about working in Disney films, television shows, and theme park attractions. Join us as we talk to Tammy about her favorite WDW memories, former interviews, and her bucket list guests and destinations!

Connect with Tammy:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a WDW vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!



13 Sep 2024091 | Fiji01:14:08

Meet Stephen, a Master Teacher of Tai Qi Chuan, Navy veteran, and lifelong adventurer! Join us in this captivating episode as Stephen shares his experiences in the beautiful islands of Fiji and unveils his latest book, Who They Are and What They're Up To—a fascinating dive into four generations of alien encounters.


Don't forget to leave us a GOOGLE review: Review Link
Find us on GoodPods: GoodPods Link.


Connect with Stephen & Leslie Shaw:
Website: whotheyarebook.com
Instagram: @leslie.shaw.author


Connect with Had To Be There:
Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203
Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Had To Be There
Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠


Connect with Vacations by Kelly:
Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@vacationsby_kelly
Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations by Kelly
Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KellyVacations


Interested in exploring the beauty of Fiji? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

22 Jan 2025097 | Isle of Skye01:04:39

Meet Catryn, a corporate-powerhouse-turned-spiritual-Indiana-Jones. Join us as she shares her Had To Be There experience on the Isle of Skye, where a mysterious vision of a Celtic warrior goddess kicked off the adventure of a lifetime.


Connect with Catryn Becker:


Connect with Had To Be There:


Connect with Vacations by Kelly for your next trip:

12 Jun 2022018 | El Peñón de Guatapé00:26:19

Meet Hinesh, a London native who enjoys exploring new countries and cultures as a solo traveler. Join us as he takes us to the city of Guatapé in Colombia and shares the Had To Be There moment he experienced after climbing a rock nearly 700 feet tall!

Connect with Hinesh:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Colombian adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!


13 Feb 2023051 | Thailand00:37:32

Meet Dan, an author who uses any excuse to insert bits and pieces of his own travels into the story at hand. Join us as Dan talks about his first trip to Thailand and the potentially embarrassing faux pas that has turned into one of his favorite tales!

Connect with Dan:


Connect with Weekly Roundup Guest Co-Host Crissi:


Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Thailand trip of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

06 Sep 2023079 | Annapurna00:49:00

Meet Gary, a former engineer and lawyer turned author. Join us as he shares his spontaneous Had To Be There experience climbing Annapurna - and all the adventures he had along the way.

 

Connect with Gary Baker: 

 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in seeing all that the Himalayas have to offer? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

27 Mar 2023057 | Istanbul00:46:38

Meet Diana, a familiar voice and fellow Academy Travel affiliate. Join us as Diana shares how her passion for travel began and her Had To Be There moment of peace in Istanbul, Turkey.


Connect with Diana:


Connect with Weekly Roundup Guest Co-Host Andy:


Connect with Had To Be There:


Interested in booking an excursion of your own to any of the destinations featured in this episode? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

01 Aug 2022025 | Samantha's WDW Wedding00:29:55

Meet Samantha, a lifelong Disney fan and former WDW cast member. Join us as she recounts the "Had To Be There" details of her own Disney Fairytale Wedding.

Connect with Samantha:

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Interested in a Disney Fairytale Wedding of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to get started!

09 May 2022015 | Universal AEP Recap00:50:44

Meet Morgan and April, two of my fellow Academy Travel affiliates. Join us as we recap the week we spent learning and exploring Universal Orlando Resort!

Connect with your favorite Academy Travel affiliates:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Universal Orlando vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly (or any of this week's guests) to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

13 Mar 2023055 | WDW: Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser01:09:52

Meet Megan, a fellow Academy Travel affiliate and self-proclaimed lover of all things nerdy. Join us as Megz shares some of the Had To Be There moments she experienced on the Galactic Starcruiser and why this adventure should be on every fan's bucketlist!

Connect with Megz:


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own on the Galactic Starcruiser? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote! Don't forget to follow VBK on Instagram @vacationsby_kelly!

30 Jan 2023049 | Jerusalem & Bethlehem00:42:16

Meet Erika, author of the Travel Rangers children’s book series and host of the Planes, Trains, & Kids Abroad podcast. Join us as we hear about Erika's scary experience traveling between two countries in the Holy Land.

Connect with Erika:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Jerusalem or Bethlehem for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

10 Oct 2022034 | Jazz for Peace: Nigeria00:50:34

Meet Rick - musician, composer, and founder of Jazz for Peace. Join us as Rick talks about his mission to promote unity and peace across cultures through the performance of music and shares a Had To Be There moment he recently experienced in Nigeria.

Connect with Rick:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Africa (or anywhere else in the world) for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

07 Feb 2022002 | Ecuador00:27:27

Meet Juan Sebastian, a tourism expert with Quito Travels in Ecuador. Join us as we explore this beautiful country and hear Juan Sebastian's harrowing Had To Be There moment. As a fellow travel professional, I'm sure he agrees this story may be a lesson to us all on the importance of using a travel agent!

Connect with Juan Sebastian:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking an Ecuadorian adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


23 Jun 2022019 | Walt Disney World: Amy00:24:13

Meet Amy, a mother of three and fellow Disney travel planner. Join us as she shares the "Had To Be There" moment she got to experience as a mom, after growing up a Disney kid herself!

Connect with Amy:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Walt Disney World vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

19 Oct 2024093 | Dubai00:39:35

Meet Cheryl Fischer, host of the OMG Teach Me podcast, mindset coach, and seasoned traveler! Join us in this episode as Cheryl takes us to Dubai, sharing her thrilling experiences during a rare desert rainstorm and the exciting adventures she had, from exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa to embarking on a desert tour. Cheryl also offers insights into the evolving culture of the UAE, what it's like traveling as a woman there, and why Dubai should be on your travel bucket list.


Don't forget to leave us a Google review: Review us here!

Find us on GoodPods: Listen here!


Connect with Cheryl Fischer:


Connect with Had To Be There:


Connect with Vacations by Kelly:


Ready to start your next adventure? Contact Vacations by Kelly to request your free quote!

05 Jun 2023067 | New Zealand00:30:10

Meet Shaun, a clean comedian who has toured on five different continents. Join us as Shaun shares one particular "Had To Be There" experience he had while trying to get to a show in New Zealand against all odds.


Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? Find it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cxwKotlCYB0


Connect with Shaun Eli:

• Websites: www.BrainChampagne.com & www.IvyStandup.com

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaun.breidbart

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-eli-breidbart-3404a910/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brainchampagne/


Connect with Had To Be There:

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Had To Be There⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Connect with Vacations by Kelly:

• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@vacationsby_kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations by Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

• Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KellyVacations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


Interested in booking a New Zealand adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

19 Dec 2022044 | Tokyo, Japan00:34:37

Meet Carrie, a travel-loving runner, author, and member of an 80s cover band. Join us as Carrie shares some of the stories that have made Tokyo one of her favorite places to visit, having already been 14 times and plans to return again and again.

Connect with Carrie:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Tokyo for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

28 Feb 2022005 | D23: Disneyland00:36:24

Meet Kelly, a fellow travel professional and Disney fan with a GREAT name - if I do say so myself. Join Kelly 1 and Kelly 2 as we talk all things Disneyland and hear Kelly 2's Had To Be There moments she experienced attending the D23 Expo! 

Connect with Kelly:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Mediterranean Disney Cruise of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

01 May 2023062 | Madagascar01:00:49

Meet Allie, author and remote work leader. Join us as Allie shares some of the highs and lows of her experiences abroad. Content warning: our conversation includes the unpleasant reality of the presence of sex trafficking and exploitation of women and children in Madagascar. To learn more about this grim reality and ways you can help, I encourage you to read this article by Matt Ray on medium.com: https://medium.com/illumination-curated/something-i-noticed-in-madagascar-sex-tourism-and-trafficking-is-alive-and-well-89e790882a81


Connect with Allie Renar:


Connect with Had To Be There:


Connect with Vacations by Kelly:


Interested in booking an excursion of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

05 Sep 2022029 | Yogyakarta, Indonesia00:45:51

Meet Karen, a native New Yorker and "Travel Mania" author. Join us as Karen dispenses some of her favorite travel tips and shares a special chance encounter she experienced in Yogyakarta!

Connect with Karen:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Indonesia for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

05 Jul 2023071 | Kanab, Utah00:50:14
Meet Lisa, the woman who does it all! Join us as this flight attendant, social worker, published author, and animal rescuer shares a Had To Be There experience she had at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah! Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? It's available on Spotify and YouTube: https://youtu.be/vjg2SJSjGuo   Connect with Lisa Wilkes:  Website: https://www.lisamichellewilkes.com Amazon author page: https://amazon.com/author/lisawilkes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Travelisa1984/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lisa.castignetti Additional Resources:  Best Friends Animal Sanctuary: https://bestfriends.org/sanctuary SWATT (Southwest Animal Transport Team): https://www.instagram.com/swatt_transport/ Connect with Had To Be There:  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Had To Be There⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠    Connect with Vacations by Kelly:  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@vacationsby_kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations by Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KellyVacations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠    Interested in booking a visit to Kanab of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!
16 Jan 2023047 | Harlaxton Manor00:40:10

Meet Abigail and Cecilia, the dynamic duo behind the inclusive publishing company The Passage Press. Join us as we hear about their chance encounter while studying abroad bonded them for life and some of the adventures they've had since.

Connect with The Passage Press:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to England for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

14 Feb 2022003 | New York00:27:01

Meet Stan, a tour guide with a wealth of knowledge. Join us as we explore the upstate region of New York State to hear Stan's Had To Be There Moment, and stay to hear the journey that led him to become a licensed tour guide in New York City!

Connect with Stan:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a New York adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


13 Jun 2023068 | India00:53:52

Meet Mike, a higher education admissions consultant who has traveled extensively in the US and around the world for both work and pleasure. Join us as Mike shares some of his hilariously awful travel stories including a visit to India that left a “had to be there” impression. 

 

Connect with Mike Frantz: 

 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in booking an India adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote! 

21 Nov 2022040 | Switzerland00:32:41

Meet Gordon, entertainment law expert and podcast coach extraordinaire! Join us as The Podcast Lawyer™ takes us back in time to a Europe trip his high school organized where things went a little off the rails (pardon the expression)!

Connect with Gordon:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Switzerland for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

23 Jan 2022Episode Zero: Meet Kelly00:04:32

Your host, Kelly Acevedo, introduces herself and shares her hopes for the Had To Be There podcast.

Have a fun vacation memory and interested in being a guest? Click the "Be A Guest" link on our website: hadtobethere.net

Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode! Follow Had To Be There on social media @hadtobethere203 on most platforms!


22 Sep 2023081 | Chiang Mai00:50:34

Meet Dara, a globetrotting travel writer with a taste for adventure! Join us as Dara transports us to the enchanting world of Chiang Mai, Thailand, where she spent a month living inside a mushroom, and shares a story that will redefine your perspective on life's true treasures.

 

Connect with Dara Brewton: 

 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in spending a month in Chiang Mai yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

12 Sep 2022030 | Camino De Santiago00:34:09

Meet Julie, a writer and publisher retired from a long career with the U.S. Foreign Service. Join us as Julie shares her experience from her FIRST trek along the Camino de Santiago, the famous pilgrimage leading to Galicia, Spain.

Connect with Julie:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Spain for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

06 Feb 2023050 | Solo Travel with Hinesh00:45:16

Meet Hinesh, a returning guest and London native. Join us as Hinesh talks about his love for solo travel and how he prioritizes visiting new places while juggling a full time job and mortgage!

Connect with Hinesh: 

Connect with Weekly Roundup Guest Host Diana: 

Connect with Had To Be There: 


Interested in booking a solo travel adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

20 Jun 2023069 | Barcelona00:52:20

Meet Shawn, a lifetime entrepreneur and inspiration to us all. Join us as Shawn shares how he turned a negative into a positive in Barcelona and which country he'll be walking across next!

  • Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? Too bad, because it's audio only 😜 Don't fret - video episodes will return next week!

 

Connect with Shawn Anderson: 

 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in booking a Barcelona cruise adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote! 

31 Jan 2022001 | DCL: Iceland00:30:06

Meet Liz! As a former Disney Cruise Line cast member (which is what Disney calls their employees), she has sailed over 500 cruises. As our first guest, Liz takes us to ICELAND, shares a few tales from her travels, and talks about what makes a Disney Cruise so special.

Connect with Liz:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking an Icelandic Disney Cruise of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


29 Sep 2023082 | Stalybridge00:41:46

Meet Bob, a real estate agent who has cheated death and found real meaning in his life! Join us as Bob lets us tag along to the town of Stalybridge to visit friends he made on a cruise.

 

Connect with Bob Thompson: 

 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in visiting Stalybridge yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

13 Jul 2023072 | Highway 1 - Fort Ross, California00:41:52

Meet Austin and Monica, college sweethearts living their best digital nomad life. Join us as the pair recount a road trip gone awry while cruising down Highway 1 through Fort Ross, CA!

  • Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? It's available on Spotify and YouTube: https://youtu.be/aIjuWAkYWNM
  • Looking for the Epcot Food & Wine Fest Foodie Guide, as promised? Click here!

 

Connect with Austin and Monica: 


Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in booking an Italian adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

31 Oct 2022037 | Ghosts of England00:47:53

Meet Rob, meteorologist by day and psychic medium by night! Join us as Rob share with us some of the haunting haunted moments he has experienced along his travels. Don't forget to check out our BONUS episode over on YouTube for even more ghost stories from Rob: https://youtu.be/UPI7sgmCwfA

Connect with Rob:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to England for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

02 Jul 2022020 | WDW AEP Recap: Pt. 100:57:49

Meet Amanda and Eva, two of my fellow Academy Travel affiliates. Join us as they recap the week we spent learning and exploring the Walt Disney World Resort at the recent Agent Education Program!

Connect with your favorite Academy Travel affiliates:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Walt Disney World vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly (or any of this week's guests) to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

27 Jun 2023070 | Cinque Terre00:32:05

Meet George, documentary filmmaker and host of the Tell Us How to Make It Better podcast. Join us for the "Had To Be There" moment George had traveling between villages in Cinque Terre and how he crossed paths with former Morgan Stanley CEO, Phil Purcell!

 

Connect with George Siegal: 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in booking an Italian adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

30 Apr 2024089 | Romania01:02:36

Meet Csongor, traveler, bioenergy healer, and motorcycle aficionado! Join us as Csongor discusses how travel has impacted his life and shares his "Had To Be There" moment in Romania!

 

Connect with Csongor Daniel: 


Connect with Had To Be There: 

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly: 

 

Interested in visiting Romania for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

17 Oct 2022035 | Hawaii00:43:38

Meet Keith, a traveler who seeks out non-touristy moments even in the most tourist-heavy destinations! Join us as Keith shares about uncovering family secrets and a magical Had To Be There moment he shared with his wife in Hawaii.


Connect with Keith:


Connect with Had To Be There:


Interested in booking a visit to Hawaii for yourself? Good news - I am an official Hawaiʻi Destination Specialist! Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

12 Dec 2022043 | Cappadocia, Turkey00:29:05

Meet Sandeep, an author currently living in Australia with a deep-rooted passion for travel. Join us as Sandeep shares a true "Had To Be There" moment high above the ancient rock formations of the country. Be sure to check out our BONUS episode over on YouTube for a BONUS tale from another one of Sandeep's travel adventures: https://youtu.be/PRyjHweFG2o

Connect with Sandeep:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to ride a hot air balloon in Turkey or a take a hopefully less exciting wildlife safari in Kenya for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

18 Apr 2022012 | Costa Rica, Pt. 200:23:13

Jump back in with Debora and Jack, as they share even more Had To Be There moments from their spontaneous elopement adventure in Costa Rica. ¡Pura vida!

Connect with Debora and Jack:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a Costa Rican excursion of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

26 Sep 2022032 | Aruba00:38:36

Meet Blake, a Titanium Certified Abundance Coach. Join us as Blake takes us along on his first visit to One Happy Island, and hear about how that 3-week stay on Aruba changed everything.

Connect with Blake:

Connect with Had To Be There:

Interested in booking a visit to Aruba for yourself? Good news - Kelly is an ACE (Aruba Certified Expert)! Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

09 Jan 2023046 | Bali & Nusa Islands00:30:55

Meet Nilesh, a Merchant Navy Chief officer who sails onboard cargo ships all around the world. Join us as Nilesh recounts a recent trip he and his wife took to Indonesia where they experienced the romance and natural beauty of Bali and the Nusa Islands.


Connect with Nilesh:


Connect with Had To Be There:


Interested in booking a visit to Bali and/or the Nusa Islands for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

14 Jan 2024Season 3 Trailer00:04:46

🌍 Welcome to a new chapter of wanderlust on the "Had to Be There Podcast"! Join your guide, Kelly Acevedo, as she embarks on the third year of exploring the world, one story at a time.


In this Season 3 trailer, Kelly reflects on the incredible journey so far, and those who have been along for the ride. But hold on, because this year is different – it's an adventure upgraded!


Get ready for exciting changes, a new schedule, and a lineup of amazing guests who will take you to captivating destinations around the globe. The "Had to Be There Podcast" is not just a show; it's a community of wanderlusters, and you're invited to be a part of it. Literally! Join the conversation in the "Had to Be There Podcast Community" Facebook group, where the podcast comes to life. Connect with fellow explorers, share your travel tales, and immerse yourself in the global community.

Buckle up, because the adventure is just beginning. Subscribe, follow us on social media, and join Kelly on the "Had to Be There Podcast" – where every story is a destination and every destination has a story. From local legends to travel tips, snapshot stories to culinary quests – Season 3 is sure to be a celebration of the diverse tapestry of travel experiences.


Connect with Had To Be There

 

Connect with Vacations by Kelly

07 Mar 2022006 | DCL: Italy00:27:31

This week we welcome back Liz, our resident Disney Cruise Line expert! As a former DCL cast member (which is what Disney calls their employees), she has sailed over 500 cruises. In her second HTBT appearance, Liz takes us on a Mediterranean sailing where she was able to cross a major destination off her bucket list. 

Connect with Liz: 

Connect with Had To Be There: 

Interested in booking a Mediterranean Disney Cruise of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote! 


The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!



06 Oct 2023083 | Guyana (Part 1!)00:58:45

Meet Alastair, author, traveler, and our new surrogate British-Canadian grandfather! Join us as Alastair shares just some of the incredible stories he's collected throughout his life. Part 2 coming soon!

 

Connect with Alastair Henry: 

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Interested in visiting Guyana, Bali, or any of the amazing places we chatted about this week? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

29 Jan 2025098 | Borneo00:49:36

Meet Jo, an intrepid explorer of inner and outer worlds. Educator, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, martial arts student, and writer, Jo's life is a tapestry of incredible experiences. Join us as she takes us deep into the jungle of Borneo for a true Had To Be There moment with a local tribe, sharing a story that will leave you in awe of the power of human connection and adventure.

Jo's remarkable background includes everything from studying at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service to publishing poetry and creative fiction under the name Jo Patti. A mother, a Sundancer, and a certified combat analyst, Jo's life is a testament to resilience, creativity, and boundless curiosity.

  • Don't forget to leave us a Google review: 
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Tips from Jo:

Here are a few tips for items to include in a travel and home medical kit:

  1. Po Chai pills - effective for stomach upsets, food poisoning, diarrhea and hangovers: this TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) is even sold on amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Po+Chai+pills&crid=1VTGVV0WI7ZRW&sprefix=po+chai+pills%2Caps%2C137&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
  2. Tourniquets. (Suggest the Israeli one hand tourniquet):  https://www.amazon.com/s?k=israeli+tourniquet&hvadid=174210851985&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=1026441&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=4459116844189454690&hvtargid=kwd-35142676220&hydadcr=24657_9648987&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_9s2fsthzkw_e
  3. Small, portable headlamp:  https://www.amazon.com/Energizer-Forest-Headlamp-Dimming-Technology/dp/B083JWX9PK/ref=sr_1_9?crid=3MU0LH8JAAXTZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.68bs5EY6cfo22mhh40UF8YkAQe0RjHRFqBIgnR3JXwH3h0FExmtUQmfs6NvdVUqdgYt9K22LC1Turopx13FXd6PTqyvUUifEbNOYpxAiBBdFeYl3HV05AyqAUUtwAltEnUaM8ALOrvBop7boaCYE06e-RdAJv-zYZzbifTw-7_MmlmcCELmdnBd2VKjHcRfjGTMUJbmu72Q2GTvCOBgtDZ6lIPNvfv1Fn-hykBB4iwUpHkiUuhDDhRnBi2LCEPCvZ2XxBnQr8rzJajbR3lKKlsn4eoN7ra_FuBl58soAyrQ.FJvzFv7bj_KgOgHerW0WUO7-vISfY4wknIZW7DrYaQ4&dib_tag=se&keywords=head%2Blamps%2Bfor%2Bcamping&qid=1729771243&sprefix=head%2Blampts%2Bfor%2Bcamping%2Caps%2C122&sr=8-9&th=1
  4. A great tasting natural-reliable product from PaleoValley (small business) for Collagen/protein powders-tastes good, too: https://paleovalley.com/store/grass-fed-bone-broth-protein

 

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24 Oct 2022036 | Salzburg00:26:37

Meet Linda, the Smart Travelista! Join us as Linda takes us to Austria for the famous Sound of Music tour where we'll visit the settings for the movie's most iconic scenes.

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Interested in booking a visit to Austria for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

28 Mar 2022009 | Antarctica00:20:58

Meet Nick, who has had the privilege of visiting all seven continents and over 50 countries! Join us as Nick takes us along with him to Antarctica for his unforgettable Had To Be There moment.

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Interested in booking an Antarctic excursion of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!



03 Apr 2023058 | Richmond00:58:03

Meet Roger, host of the popular Crossing It Off Podcast. Join us as Roger shares the Had To Be There moment he experienced while crossing an item off his own bucket list - visiting the filming locations of Ted Lasso.


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own to any of the destinations featured in this episode? Contact ⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠ to request your free quote!

30 May 2023066 | Yellowstone National Park00:43:52

Meet Don, a veteran with a successful military career spanning nearly 30 years. Join us as Don shares the "Had To Be There" moments he experienced while exploring the beautiful Yellowstone National Park with his young family.


Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? Find it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3oqkYS48r4E


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Interested in booking a National Parks adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

22 Mar 2023056 | Ponce, Puerto Rico00:32:26

Meet Kelly - oh wait, that's me! Join me as I recap my first trip to Puerto Rico last fall and hear about the many "Had To Be There" moments my husband and I experienced during our stay.


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Interested in making your own Puerto Rican memories? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

25 Jul 2022024 | Cambodia00:26:08

Meet Callan J. Mulligan, a best-selling author with a penchant for travel. Join us as Cal takes us on an adventure from Thailand to Cambodia and shares the Had To Be There moments he experienced along the way.

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Interested in booking a Southeast Asia adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

02 Aug 2023075 | Rwanda00:39:16

Meet Rebecca Chandler, the globetrotting storyteller who's braved life's twists from Southern California to the heart of Africa. Join us as Rebecca unveils her thrilling journey gorilla trekking in Rwanda, offering insights that span continents and decades.

  • Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? Coming soon to YouTube.

 

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Interested in booking a gorilla trekking adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

02 Jan 2023045 | Cusco, Peru00:33:28

Meet Maya, the founder of Healthy High Achievers and a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach. Join us as Maya recounts the story of how she left her home country of Belgium to find her truest self in the South American country of Peru.

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Interested in booking a visit to Peru for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

08 May 2023063 | North Korea00:28:16

Meet Brian, a SoCal native and president of BSG PR. Join us as Brian shares his "Had To Be There" experience that came when he accepted a client's invitation to join them in running a half marathon in North Korea.


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

11 Apr 2022011 | Costa Rica, Pt. 100:34:50

Meet Debora and Jack, who cite traveling as their first shared passion and the cornerstone to their relationship. Join us for our first two-part episode as the pair recount their spontaneous nuptials in Costa Rica!

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Interested in booking a Costa Rican excursion of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


16 Nov 2023085 | Guatemala00:38:56

Meet Kim, a lawyer living a nomadic lifestyle. Join us as Kim takes us on a trip to Guatemala where she awoke to a fascinating surprise.

 

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Interested in visiting Guatemala or any of the amazing places we chatted about this week? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

07 Nov 2022038 | New Zealand00:34:29
Meet Alison, who quit her successful tech career and left the corporate world to pursue her passion! Join us as Alison takes us on a memorable hike along New Zealand's most famous Great Walk and hear about the challenges she faced and the new friends who helped her through. Connect with Alison: Website: iDare2be.com Dare 2 Be More?: iDare2bemore.com Alison's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-arnoff/ Dare2Be's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/success-acceleration-coaching/ Connect with Had To Be There: Website: hadtobethere.net Instagram: @hadtobethere203 Facebook: Had To Be There Twitter: @hadtobethere203 Interested in booking a visit to New Zealand for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.
03 Jan 2025096 | Colombia & Costa Rica01:22:02

Meet Jeff, COO of Altitude Water, passionate traveler, and advocate for sustainable solutions! Join us in this episode as Jeff shares his experiences exploring diverse cultures in countries like Colombia, Costa Rica, and beyond. From the warm reception in Cartagena to the natural beauty of Costa Rica, Jeff reflects on how understanding local cultures enhances the travel experience.

He also dives into his love for fishing and surfing, discusses the importance of effective charity and personal responsibility, and highlights his work with Altitude Water—a company bringing clean drinking water to communities in need. Plus, Jeff reveals his favorite destinations, from Trinidad to Maui, and emphasizes the joy of supporting local businesses while traveling.

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27 Jan 2024087 | Republic of Georgia00:53:10

Meet Ralph, professional travel photographer and international tour organizer. Join us as Ralph takes us to the Republic of Georgia where he had quite the "Had To Be There" moment trying to cross into Armenia!

 

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Interested in visiting the Republic of Georgia for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

06 Jul 2022021 | WDW AEP Recap: Pt. 200:52:52

Meet Lauren, Daynalee, and Kelsey, three more of my fellow Academy Travel affiliates. Join us as they recap the special events they were treated to by Academy Travel and the Walt Disney World Resort at the recent Agent Education Program!

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Interested in booking a Walt Disney World vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly (or any of this week's guests) to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

06 Mar 2023054 | Mongolia00:44:58

Meet Sandra and Håkan, an adventurous married couple from Sweden currently living in Spain. Join us for the pair's "Had To Be There" moment they experienced in Mongolia and hear all about their experience along the Transmongolian Railway along the way.


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own to Mongolia? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote! Follow VBK on Instagram @vacationsby_kelly

25 Apr 2022013 | DCL: Marques Ogden00:21:25

Meet Marques! After retiring from professional football, Marques has gone on to find a series of successes and failures in his life. Join us as he shares his favorite Had To Be There moments from his family's recent Disney Cruise and learn how he has taken his failures and turned them into teachable moments for others.

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Interested in booking a Disney Cruise Line vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

21 Mar 2022008 | WDW w/ Familia00:36:01

Meet Nikky, an insanely talented artist and fan of all things Disney, horror, and gaming. Join us to learn more about Nikky's creations and hear her Had To Be There moment experiencing WDW with her abuelita.

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Interested in booking a Walt Disney World family vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!




02 Oct 2024092 | Canada 🚲 Mexico00:35:40

Meet Risa August, a seasoned traveler, adventurer, and author! In this inspiring episode, Risa shares her journey from Canada to Mexico on a bike, overcoming challenges, and embracing new experiences along the way. Plus, hear all about her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike, and how she's inspiring others with her mindset and determination.


Don't forget to leave us a Google review: Review us here!

Find us on GoodPods: Listen here!


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Ready to start your next adventure? Contact Vacations by Kelly to request your free quote!

21 Feb 2022004 | White Sands, NM00:20:26

Meet Brook, a photographer with an adventurous spirit. Join us as Brook recounts a road trip she and her husband took from their home outside of Atlanta, Georgia to White Sands, New Mexico and the Had To Be There moment that she calls "life changing." 

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Interested in booking a New Mexico or road tripping adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


14 Nov 2022039 | Girls' Trip: Italy00:31:31

Meet Maricia, educator and world traveler! Join us as Maricia lets us tag along on a girls trip to Italy where things did not exactly go according to plan, but as you'll learn this week, sometimes in life if you can learn to roll with the changes, the outcomes can be better than you imagined.

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Interested in booking a visit to Italy for your own friend-group getaway? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

27 Feb 2023053 | South Georgia Island00:51:35

Meet Jake, a traveler who recently went viral after sharing a true "Had To Be There" moment on social media. Join us as Jake takes us along on his trip to South Georgia Island and all the emotions he experienced leading up to this moment.

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Interested in booking an excursion of your own to South Georgia Island? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

23 Jan 2023048 | Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue00:38:00

Meet Dominique, a teacher and Minnie ear creator with a deep love for Disney. Join us as we hear about Dominique's Disney story and her family's long history with the rootin'est tootin'est show in the wilderness!

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Interested in booking a visit to WDW to see Hoop Dee Doo for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

10 Apr 2023059 | Chichén Itzá, Mexico00:45:24

Meet Urmi, an Italian-Bengali currently living in Montreal. Join us as Urmi shares her "Had To Be There" moment she experienced when she went exploring away from her resort in Cancun.


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own to visit Mexico's Chichén Itzá? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

05 Dec 2022042 | Around the World in 84 Days00:40:31

Meet Sara, whose love of travel is in her DNA. Join us Sara takes us on a once-in-a-lifetime trip she accidentally manifested where she and her mother were able to travel all around the world in just 84 days.

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Interested in booking a world tour for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

16 May 2022016 | WDW with Brook00:24:06

Welcome back Brook! Our guest from Episode 4 is back to talk about the Most Magical Place on Earth and will be sharing some of her favorite Disney memories, what's on her Disney bucket list, and what are her favorite WDW vegan menu items!

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Interested in booking a Walt Disney World adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


23 Oct 2023084 | India00:32:00

Meet R.C., author, retiree, and traveler. Join us as R.C. shares a story of an unlikely person showing up in a most unlikely place!

 

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Interested in India or any of the amazing places we chatted about this week? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

07 Aug 2024090 | Bodh Gaya01:04:58

Meet Indra, a lifetime spiritual seeker, healer, and teacher! Join us in this transformative episode as Indra shares his experience ringing in a new millennium at the very place where Buddha attained enlightenment.

  • Looking for the VIDEO VERSION of this episode? Keep an eye out on our YouTube channel!
  • Don't forget to leave us a GOOGLE review: Review Link
  • Find us on GoodPods: GoodPods Link.


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Interested in visiting Bodh Gaya for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

08 Aug 2022026 | Austrian Alps00:48:27

Meet Dylan, an award-winning author and gifted storyteller. Join us as Dylan takes us on an adventure hutting through the Austrian Alps and how this seemingly harmless "hütte crawl" took a bit of a turn!

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Interested in booking a visit to the Austrian Alps for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

03 Oct 2022033 | Great Wall of China00:31:56

Meet Melissa, the Barefoot Dancing Rocket Scientist! Join us as Dr. Melissa lets us tag along on a race she ran along the Great Wall of China - just ONE of the marathons she participated in as part of the Seven Continents Club.

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Interested in booking a visit to China for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

13 Jul 2022022 | Vail, Colorado00:33:55

Meet Chris, a professional speaker and luxury travel coach. Join us as Chris shares some of the things he loves most about his favorite vacation destination, Vail, CO - while sprinkling in a few cost-saving travel tips along the way!

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Interested in booking a Colorado ski vacation of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

07 Apr 2024088 | Cuba00:37:49

Meet Tara!

Join this travel expert extraordinaire as she whisks us away to the vibrant island nation of Cuba! In this episode, Tara spills the tea on Cuba's stunning scenery, welcoming locals, unhurried pace, and unique experiences. We'll even get a taste of a hilarious "Had to Be There Moment" where cultural differences lead to an unforgettable adventure!

This episode is your jam if:

  • You're dreaming of an affordable, safe, and culturally rich vacation.
  • You're on a budget but crave a taste of authentic Cuba.
  • You value friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.

Bonus! Tara also shares:

  • Top tips for planning an affordable trip to Cuba.
  • Her all-time favorite travel destinations ("Passport Picks") and why they hold a special place in her heart.
  • The ultimate insider tip for immersing yourself in a new culture.

Listen now and get ready to book your Cuban escape!


 

Connect with Tara Goebel: 


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Interested in booking a Cuban adventure for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

23 Nov 2023086 | Zihuatanejo00:55:10

Meet Michelle, travel blogger, educator, and foodie. Join us as Michelle takes us to Zihuatanejo, Mexico where she had a spontaneous tour of the former home to a mobster!

 

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Interested in visiting Zihuatanejo or another region of Mexico? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

28 Nov 2022041 | Valencia, Spain00:29:07

Meet Dustin, a nomadic traveler and hopeless romantic. Join us as we celebrate La Noche de San Juan on the Mediterranean shores and fall in love with a daughter of Grenada living in the coastal city of Valencia, Spain.

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Interested in booking a visit to Spain to experience La Noche de San Juan for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

15 May 2023064 | Jordan00:54:32

Meet Jeremy, a United States Air Force veteran with a particular area of expertise. Join us as Jeremy shares his "Had To Be There" moment that he experienced while guarding a mysterious crate in the Jordanian desert in the 90s.


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

30 Aug 2023078 | Nevada00:41:07

Meet Yaneck, the owner of WASIO Photography and a passionate adventure motorcyclist. Join us as he recounts the exhilarating Had To Be There experience of his (would-be) cross-state motorcycle expedition from San Diego to Utah.

 

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Interested in seeing all that Nevada has to offer? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

20 Feb 2023052 | Tokyo Disney00:47:23

Meet Andrew, host of the Flying Smarter podcast and fellow Disney fan! Join us as Andrew reflects back on his visits to every Disney Park around the world and why Tokyo Disney has such a special place in his heart.

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Interested in booking a visit to Tokyo Disney Resort for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote.

22 May 2023065 | Italy00:34:34

Meet Nikkee, a two-time Jeopardy! contestant, trapeze artist, and a true erudite - constantly consuming and imparting knowledge. Join us as Nikkee shares the wild "Had To Be There" moment she experienced trying to get from her vacation rental to the airport.


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Interested in booking an Italian adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

22 Aug 2022028 | Uganda00:35:39

Meet Cathy, an avid composter and laughter yoga leader. Join us as Cathy takes us along on her adventures traveling from Uganda to Kenya in the 80s and shares why it's always important to be mindful while visiting foreign countries!

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Interested in booking a visit to Africa for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

15 Aug 2022027 | Whistler, B.C.00:26:38

Meet Chris and Melissa, a husband and wife team embracing the midlife and crusading against boring times. Join us as this dynamic duo takes us to one of the stops along their "12 cities in 12 months" adventure and shares the exciting experience they had there!

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Interested in booking a visit to Whistler or the British Columbia area for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

18 Jul 2022023 | Venice, Italy00:39:29

Meet Joe LeValley, a crime reporter turned award-winning author. Join us as Joe takes us to Venice, Italy and shares a remarkable Had To Be There moment they experienced thanks to a second-generation watertaxi driver!

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Interested in booking a Venice adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

24 May 2022017 | National Parks w/Lexi00:25:17

Meet Lexi! A travel consultant new to the world of Disney vacation planning, Lexi is taking us on a journey to a number of non-Disney destinations - a collection of memories from the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Zion National Park.

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Interested in booking a national park adventure of your own? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

09 Dec 2024094 | Chadron, Nebraska01:01:06

Meet Don, retired airline pilot, world traveler, and author of Where We Land! In this episode, Don shares his fascinating journey from a small town in Nebraska to the skies, reflecting on his love for aviation and his career highlights. From the joys and challenges of being a pilot to humorous stories—like the time a passenger's dog joined him in the cockpit—Don offers an insider's perspective on the world of flight. He also discusses the impact of 9/11 on airline security, shares his favorite destinations for food, beaches, and architecture, and explains why he treasures memories over souvenirs.

Tune in for tips on navigating air travel, a peek into aviation's lighter side, and a glimpse into the future of flight.


Don't forget to leave us a Google review: Review us here!

Find us on GoodPods: Listen here!


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Ready to start your next adventure? Contact Vacations by Kelly to request your free quote!

04 Apr 2022010 | WDW: Hoop Dee Doo00:17:42

Did you hear the news? The Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue is returning to Walt Disney World! In honor of this news and in celebration of our TENTH episode, join me as I share one of my own personal Had To Be There moments.

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Interested in booking a WDW vacation of your own to see the Hoop Dee Doo Revue for yourself? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!


02 May 2022014 | Nairobi National Park00:28:09

Meet Ngina, a Kenyan native currently living her life of positivity in Doha (the capital city of Qatar). Join us as she takes us to one of her favorite parts from her homeland: Nairobi National Park!

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Interested in booking an African excursion of your own to visit Nairobi National Park? Contact Vacations By Kelly to request your free quote!

The best way to show your support is to leave a rating or review on whichever platform you're listening to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe and follow along on social media. Have a "Had To Be There" story of your own to share? I'd love to hear it! Click the Be A Guest link at www.hadtobethere.net to get started!

24 Apr 2023061 | Nepal00:29:48

Meet Patti, a lifelong educator and now adventure travel writer. Join us as Patti shares her "Had To Be There" experience trekking in Nepal, the wonderful children she met along the way, and the lengths she has gone to make sure they get a quality education.


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Interested in booking an excursion of your own to visit Nepal for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

23 Dec 2024095 | Everest Base Camp01:15:55

Meet Andy, an inspiring adventurer who transformed his life by overcoming addiction and embracing physical challenges and travel. In this episode, Andy shares his journey from the remote Shetland Islands to tackling the Tour de France course and reaching Everest Base Camp. He discusses how asking himself to change became the turning point in his sobriety and led to his passion for adventure travel.


Andy reflects on cycling through the stunning landscapes of Tibet, the importance of visiting before the region changes further, and the connections he’s made with friendly locals. From his favorite souvenir—the emotional moment of reuniting with his family after completing the Tour de France—to his favorite Tibetan dishes, Andy’s stories are a testament to the power of resilience and exploration. He also introduces his program, Sober in Seven, helping others break free from alcohol addiction.


Tune in for Andy’s incredible insights, tips on adventure travel, and a reminder of the transformative power of change.



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    18 Aug 2023076 | Daufuskie Island00:51:21

    Meet Laura, an Atlanta-based author and business professional, deeply enchanted by the allure of Daufuskie Island. Join us as Laura unveils her passionate journey of restoration, development projects, and her captivating connection to this hidden South Carolina gem.

    • Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? Coming soon to YouTube.

     

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    Interested in booking a vacation rental on Daufuskie Island for your own getaway? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

    18 Apr 2023060 | Corsica00:58:17

    Meet Scott, a New England-based career coach with over 25 years of experience in helping individuals and organizations achieve their professional goals. Join us as Scott shares his "Had To Be There" experience through-hiking the famously challenging GR20 trail in Corsica.


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    Interested in booking an excursion of your own to visit Corsica and trying to tackle the GR20 yourself? Contact ⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠ to request your free quote!

    26 Jul 2023074 | Gettysburg00:51:08

    Meet Cheryl, a history loving travel guru on a mission to combine her two passions! Join us as Cheryl takes us to the site of one of America's most poignant and historic landmarks.

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    Interested in booking a historic adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

    19 Jul 2023073 | Sydney, Australia00:39:41
    Meet Brandon, a pastor and memory collector residing in Omaha, Nebraska! Join us as Brandon gets us lost in Sydney, Australia! Looking for the VIDEO VERSION on this episode? It’s up on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XUM7bPw7sgg?si=5mE74xZDlEzbgolK   Connect with Brandon Hair:  Website: brandonhair.me Blog: thisawesome.life Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-awesome-life/id1675601972 Twitter: ⁠https://www.twitter.com/brandonhair Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/brandonhair Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/brandonhair   Connect with Had To Be There:  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Had To Be There⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hadtobethere203⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠    Connect with Vacations by Kelly:  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@vacationsby_kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations by Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KellyVacations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠    Interested in booking an Australia adventure of your own? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - a certified Aussie specialist(!) - to request your free quote!
    24 Aug 2023077 | Mount Kilimanjaro01:10:40

    Meet Leia, who has been a writer, an editor, a nonprofit president, a library page, and an educator over the past twenty years. Join us as this military spouse and mother of 4 (by birth and adoption) shares the Had To Be There experience she had climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

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    Interested in seeing Mount Kilimanjaro for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!


    12 Sep 2023080 | Havasupai, Grand Canyon00:49:14

    Meet Meghann and Zach, the husband and wife duo not taking a moment of life for granted as they take hikes, road trips and explore the world together. Join us as they share the Had To Be There experience hiking Havasupai at the Grand Canyon.

     

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    Interested in seeing the Grand Canyon for yourself? Contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vacations By Kelly⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to request your free quote!

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