Welcome to Wanderlust Unpacked — the podcast where travel meets storytelling and community. Hosted by Annie, a travel professional, storyteller, and mama who's seen the world from mission trips to five-star resorts, this show unpacks the heart behind every journey.
Each episode dives into real stories, practical travel tips, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you plan smarter, travel deeper, and connect with a global community that loves adventure as much as you do. Whether you're dreaming of your next getaway or just love hearing about the world, this is your seat at the table.
Traveling through Europe with kids might sound overwhelming - but it doesn't have to be. In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie shares real-life experiences from traveling to Ireland & Scotland with her two toddlers, plus how she is preparing an upcoing trip to the South of France. From castles and countryside to walkable cities and relaxed coastal days, these trips proved that Europe can be incredibly family-friendly.
Annie will talk through what actually worked: keeping a realistic pace, choosing destinations that welcome kids, and focusing on experiences over packed itineraries. These trips weren't about doing everything - they were about creating meaningful memories together.
Interested in Booking your next trip? Complete the Client Intake form here (https://www.adventurustravel.com/anneshibley)!
Follow along on Instagram for more!
11 Feb 2026
Episode 15: Let's Talk Flights
In this episode, Annie shares about all things flights. Sometimes, booking them leads to the most stressful planning parts of the trip. Flight prices are unpredictable, chaotic, and constantly changing - and she's got the stories to prove it.
So, tune in and hear some quick pointers, how to snag the best deal, and what to do if you didn't. If you've ever wondered when to book or why prices change fast, this episode is for you.
Want to book your next getaway? Complete this form and let Annie support you along the way.
Follow along for more on Instagram!
4 Feb 2026
Episode 14: Quick Tip - Why Travel Insurance Isn't Optional (Especially With Kids)
Travel insurance isn't about expecting something to go wrong - it's about protecting your family when the unexpected happens. In this quick episode, Annie breaks down why travel insurance is one of the most important parts of planning a trip, especially with kids.
There will be real-life scenarios that families may not think about, what medical coverage abroad actually looks like, and why this is one area you don't want to skip. If you've ever wondered whether travel insurance is really worth it, this episode will give you clarity - and peach of mind.
Do you want help booking your next trip? Fill out this form
Follow along for more in IG.
28 Jan 2026
Episode 13: Unpacking One of My Favorite Trips - 24 Hours in Istanbul & a Month of Magic
One of my favorite trips of all time started with a bold choice: a 24-hour layover in Istanbul, Turkey. My friend Yana and I landed early in the morning, dropped our bags, and explored nonstop - walked neighborhoods, soaked in history, tasted the food, and somehow hit nearly 30,000 steps in one day. It was fast, immersive, and the perfect reminder that even a short stop can turn into a powerful travel memory.
From there, our journey began and adventure unfolded across Lisbon and southern Portugal, Seville, Spain and then into Morocco. We wandered through three cities and took a bus into the desert with travelers from all overthe world. We shared stories with strangers, and leaned fully into the experience which became one of the most unforgettable parts of the trip.
What made this journey so special was how we traveled. We figured things out along the way (including housing), balanced iconic sites with spontaneous adventure. We were gone for nearly a month, finished in Barcelona, and returned home changed - proof that sometimes the best trips happen when you leave room for the unknown.
Follow along for more on IG
Do you want help planning your next trip? Complete this form.
21 Jan 2026
Episode 12: More than Luxury: How Sandals Gives Back
Sandals Resorts are known for luxury, romance, and iconic Caribbean escapes - but what many travelers don't see is the heart behind the brand.
In this episode, Annie will share why she truly loves Sandals and why being a part of the Back to Jamaica event meant so much. This episode will dive into how Sandals shows up for its people - starting with their employees, who continued to receive full payroll and care packages during challenging times - and extending to the islands they call home. The episode will also touch on the powerful work of the Sandals Foundation - from immediate relief efforts to long-term investments in schools and local communities.
This is a conversation about travel with purpose, luxury with heart, and why where - and how - you travel truly matters.
Come say "Hi!" on Instagram here!
Wanting to learn more about Sandals and Beaches resorts? Fill out the Client Intake form here.
Check out Sandals & Beaches!
14 Jan 2026
Episode 11: Making Travel a Family Priority: Smart Ways to Save Together
In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie shares simple, realistic ways her family saves for travel - without the overwhelm. From picking the right travel credit cards to creating a dedicated travel savings account, to getting her kids involved in the fun, these are the exact habits used to make travel a priority year-round. If you're dreaming of your next getaway but not sure how to budget for it, this episode will give you clarity and motivation to start saving today.
Follow Annie on Instagram here!
Want to book a trip? Complete Annie's intake form here!
7 Jan 2026
Episode 10: Quick Tip - How to Pack Like a Pro
In this quick- tip episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie shares her go-to strategies for packing like a pro - especially when you're traveling as a family. From maximizing suitcase space to keeping every kid organized, these simple tips will change the way you get ready for your next adventure. Learn why packing cubes are a lifesaver, how to keep everyone's essentials separate, and the one thing you should always bring. Whether you're prepping for a big vacation or a weekend getaway, these tips will help you travel lighter, smarters, and with way less stress.
Travel Advisor with Adventurus Travel
Want help planning your next trip? Fill out this Client Intake Form
Connect with Annie on Instagram!
Grab the MUST HAVE Packing Cubes. (https://a.co/d/0zlPz74)
31 Dec 2025
Episode 9: Why Travel Changes Us
In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie dives into the heart of why travel changes us - not just where we go, but who we become along the way. From shifting perspectives and building courage to finding deeper connection with ourselves and others, we explore how every journey leaves its mark.
Whether it's a solo trip that cracked your heart open or a family adventure that redefined "home", this episode is your reminder that travel is more than a movement - it's transformation.
Tune in and reflect on how your own adventures have shaped your story.
Connect with Annie Further:
Help Planning Your Next Trip - Client Intake Form
Follow along on IG & send a DM to connect.
Have you been longing for an All Inclusive Getaway?
Check out Sandals
Check out Beaches
Travel Advisor with Adventurus Travel
24 Dec 2025
Episode 8: From Toddlers to Teens - Mastering Family Travel ft. Stephani Izzo
In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, I'm joined by travel advisor and mom of three, Stephani Izzo, who brings a wealth of real-world experience when it comes to traveling with mixed ages. From toddlers to teens, Stephani has lived it - the packing, the planning, the meltdowns, the magic - and she's here to share her pro tips so your next family adventure can feel smoother, more intentional, and genuinely enjoyable for everyone involved.
We dive into how to choose the right destination for a range of ages, how to balance activities so no one feels left out, what to pack, how to prepare kids with different needs, and the little things that make a huge difference when you're on the go. If you're a parent, caregiver, or simply planning a mulitgenerational getaway, this episode is full of must-knows that will help you travel with more ease and confidence.
Travel Advisors with Adventurus Travel
Follow Stephani on Instagram
Follow Annie on Instagram
Looking to plan you next getaway? Complete this Client Intake Form?
Wanting to book a Sandals or Beaches trip?
Head here for Sandals & here for Beaches
17 Dec 2025
Episode 7: Quick Tip - Traveling with a Newborn: What You Need to Know
In this Quick Tip episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie shares essential advice for parents traveling with a newborn. From airport check-in hacks to TSA rules and in-flight tips, this short episode helps families feel more confident navigating their first trip with baby in tow. Perfect for families who want to travel prepared - and stress a little less.
Connect with Annie further:
IG: Wanderlust with Annie
Planning Your Next Trip? Client Intake
Travel Advisor with Adventurus Travel
10 Dec 2025
Episode 6: Exploring Jamaica & Beyond with Island Routes - Why Excursions Matter
In this episode, Annie sits down with David Black from Island Routes, the Caribbean's leading excursion company, to dive into the world of adventure, culture, and connection. As Jamaica continues to reopen and rebuild, we talk about what makes exploring beyond your resort so meaningful - especially now.
David shares insights on Jamaica's standout excursions, what travelers can expect as the island bounces back, and why getting off property and experiencing the heart of the destination is essential to truly understanding the Caribbean.
From hidden gems to must-do adventures, this episode is all about elevating your trip, supporting local communities, and discovering the soul of Jamaica through unforgettable experiences.
Discover Island Routes (https://www.islandroutes.com/)
Travel Sandals or Beaches
Connect with Annie on Instagram
8 Dec 2025
Episode 5: Special Edition - Back to Jamaica - Why Jamaica is Truly Back
While on the island of Jamaica for the Back to Jamaica event with Sandals Resorts, Annie sat down with Kristi Upton (once again) from AdventurUs Travel for a powerful, heart centered-conversation about what it really means to return to this island with all love.
This episode isn't just about booking a trip - it's about showing up, creating impact, and supporting the communities that are rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa. Jamaica is vibrant, resilient, and more alive than ever, and your visit helps fuel that recovery in meaninful ways.
If you've been wondering whether Jamaica is ready ... this episode is your answer: Jamaica is back, and your presence matters.
Interested in booking your next trip? Complete this Client Form (https://www.adventurustravel.com/anneshibley)
Wanting to travel to Sandals or Beaches? Follow those links and send a message to Annie on Instagram for any questions!
AdventurUs Travel (https://www.adventurustravel.com/)
3 Dec 2025
Episode 4: Secret Perks of Booking with a Travel Advisor (ft. Kristi Upton at AdventurUS Travel)
In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie sits down with Kristi Upton, the owner of AdventurUS Travel Agency, to pull back the curtain on what it really means to work with a travel advisor.
From insider perks and exclusive upgrades to time-saving expertise and personal support, we dive into why booking with a travel advisor can transform your entire travel experience. Kristi and Annie also break down how to find the right advisor for your needs and share a behind-the-scenes look at what travel advisors actually do to make every trip seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable.
Whether you're dreaming of your next getaway or wondering if a travel advisor is worth it, this conversation will show you why having one in your corner is one of the best travel decisions you can make.
Check out AdventurUS Travel here!
Interested in booking your next trip? Complete the Client Intake Form (https://www.adventurustravel.com/anneshibley).
Interested in a Sandals getaway? What about a Beaches getaway?
Follow both Annie & Kristi on Instagram.
26 Nov 2025
Episode 3: Holiday Edition - Forget the Gifts & Make the Memories
This special holiday edition of Wanderlust Unpacked is dropping right in time for that holiday rush. So, we're skipping the stress of last-minute gifts and talking instead about giving the gift that lasts far beyond the wrapping paper: travel.
We dive into why booking the trip is the best present of all - the kind that transforms into lifelong memories, strengthens family connection and becomes part of your family's story. From the adventure itself, to the photos you'll cherish forever, to the uninterrupted quality time that only travel can offer, this episode is your gentle reminder to invest in experiences rather than things.
If you're ready to rethink holiday gifting and lean into memory-making this episode will inspire you to book the trip and make time for what matters most.
Travel Advisor with Adventurus Travel
Ready to book the trip? Fill out this Client Intake Form.
Dreaming of the Caribbean?
Sandals (adults only) / Beaches (family)
Find Annie on Instagram Here!
19 Nov 2025
Episode 2: Riding Out the Storm - My Jamaica Story
In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie takes you behind the scenes of a travel experience unlike any other - being in Jamaica during Hurrican Beryl and reflecting on what others may have experienced during Hurricane Melissa.
Through the chaos, Annie discovered what makes Jamaica so special - not just its beaches & sunshine, but its people. She shares stories of incredible hospitality, the dedication of Sandals employees who stayed on property to care for guests, and how the resort team went above and beyond to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
This episode is a reminder that flexibility in travel isn't just about rolling with delays - it's about perspective, gratitude, and finding beauty even in unexpected circumstances.
Connect with Annie:
Client Intake Form
IG: Wanderlust with Annie
Book a Trip: Sandals
Travel Advisor with Adventurus Travel
11 Nov 2025
Episode 1: Unpacking My Wanderlust: Annie's Story
In this episode of Wanderlust Unpacked, Annie takes you behind the scenes of her travel story - from her early years growing up without much exposure to travel, to her very first international trip that sparked a lifelong passion for exploring the world.
She shares how mission work shaped her perspective, what she learned as a young woman adventuring abroad, and how those experiencess now influence her life as a traveling mama. It's the perfect introduction to the heart and purpose behind this podcast - inspiring connection, curiosity, and courage to explore.
Connect on IG: Wanderlust with Annie
Plan Upcoming Travel: Client Intake Form
Sandals Travel
Beaches Travel
Travel Advisor with: Adventurus Travel
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