Episode 182: Essential Disney Cruise Tips for a Magical Sailing
Me and the Magic
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 to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your...
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Episode 181: Discover the New Norwegian Luna Cruise Experience
Me and the Magic
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 ...
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Episode 180: The Power of Community in Solo Female Travel
Me and the Magic
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...
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Episode 179: Top Reasons Women Choose Solo Travel
Me and the Magic
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, by Lori Rackl. Published on May 8, 2025. Travel Bug Tonic, Upcoming Events Learn more about our 2026...
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Episode 178: Finding Inspiration in Women's History While Traveling Solo and with Small Groups
Me and the Magic
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 . Join Sarah’s Facebook...
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Episode 177: Simple Ways to Find Joy in Daily Life and Your Travels
Me and the Magic
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 authored by F. Diane Barth, LCSW. authored by Stephanie Mihalas, PhD, and ABPP. Me and the Magic . Me and the Magic . Join the Me and the...
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Episode 176: Our 2027 Group Cruise to Bermuda
Me and the Magic
Amanda Bauner is joined by MEI-Travel’s Grace Korba to unveil the details of the Me and the Magic 2027 group trip, a 7-night cruise from New York City to Bermuda aboard the Norwegian Luna. This promises to be a great cruise filled with fun and friends. Learn more about this exciting trip and booking details . Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic 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...
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Episode 175: Highlights from Our Group Weekend at Dollywood
Me and the Magic
Host Amanda Bauner reunites with guests to recap their festive weekend at Dollywood during the Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration. They share stories about travel to Eastern Tennessee, their different accommodations, favorite Dollywood rides, top-notch holiday shows, shopping finds, local activities, and, of course, the famous cinnamon bread. The group also reflects on building friendships through travel in this heartwarming celebration of connection, adventure, and holiday magic. Join us for our Seine River Cruise in September 2026! Join Amanda Bauner and the Me and the Magic community on a...
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Episode 174: Top Ten Walt Disney World Attractions That Keep Us Coming Back
Me and the Magic
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Disney expert Tim Foster to share and discuss their top 10 Walt Disney World attractions. Together, they explore what keeps them returning to favorites like Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion, Spaceship Earth, and more, including personal stories, repeatability, and the magic behind the details. Their conversation blends nostalgia, Disney history, and insider tips, while celebrating the joy and wonder of solo and group travel. Connect with Our Guest Connect with Tim Foster at . Follow these links to purchase Tim Foster’s...
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Episode 173: Road Trip Ready: The Ultimate Planning Checklist
Me and the Magic
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner shares her ultimate road trip planning checklist, drawn from years of travel experience. She walks listeners through every stage of preparation for a road trip, including booking accommodations, vehicle maintenance, packing tips, and budgeting. This practical, detailed episode is perfect for anyone wanting to be “road trip ready.” Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic 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...
info_outlineIn this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes Dollywood expert Katie Smith to dive into all things Dollywood and the surrounding eastern Tennessee area. They discuss the park’s rich history, seasonal festivals like the Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas, must-do attractions, local food recommendations, money-saving tips, and nearby sights. Katie shares insider advice for first-timers, details about Dollywood resorts, and her favorite holiday traditions.
Connect with Our Guest
Connect with Katie Smith at FairyGodKatie on Instagram and TikTok. Also, listen to Katie on the Popcorn Bucket Gossip podcast.
RSVP for our Dollywood Weekend Getaway!
Join us at Dollywood in eastern Tennessee for a magical holiday weekend getaway, November 7-9, 2025, during Dollywood’s 40th anniversary celebration and the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival! RSVP here, or contact me to be invited to our private Facebook group as we plan the trip! Find all the trip details 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 amanda@meandthemagic.com.
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