PODCAST · society
Me and the Magic
by Amanda Bauner: Solo Travel Expert, Podcaster, and Blogger
Me and the Magic provides solo travel and vacation planning tips, dining and resort reviews, and much more. Join Amanda Bauner on her travels around the United States and different parts of the world, including Disney destinations and Disney cruises.
Episodes
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Episode 191: Looking Back on Our France Group Trip
In this heartwarming episode of Me and the Magic, Amanda Bauner welcomes fellow travelers to recap their unforgettable group adventure through France. The conversation highlights their Paris explorations, a memorable Seine River cruise with AmaWaterways, and meaningful moments in Normandy and…
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Episode 190: How to Choose Between Carry-On and Checked Luggage
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the age-old travel dilemma: should you carry on or check your bag when flying? Drawing from her own upcoming adventure to France, Amanda breaks down the factors to consider, covering costs, airline policies, packing restrictions…
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Episode 189: Top Destinations to Experience Dolly Parton's Legacy
In this heartfelt episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner pays tribute to the legendary Dolly Parton, reflecting on her remarkable life, philanthropy, and lasting cultural impact. Amanda guides listeners through destinations in Tennessee, Los Angeles, New York, and England where Dolly's...
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Episode 188: Why Sustainable Travel Matters Now More Than Ever
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the importance of sustainable travel amid global climate challenges. She explains what sustainable travel really means and discusses the impact of tourism on climate change, using current examples from Europe's rivers and wildfires…
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Episode 187: Celebrating America's States with Travel Ideas (Part 2)
Host Amanda Bauner continues the celebration of the 50 U.S. states, focusing on the South and West regions. She shares fun facts and top activities for each state, from Kentucky to Hawaii, blending her own travel experiences with community contributions. Listeners get recommendations for iconic...
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Episode 186: Celebrating America's States with Travel Ideas (Part 1)
Host Amanda Bauner embarks on a virtual journey through the East and Midwest regions of the United States. She highlights each state's unique features, fun facts, and top activities, sharing personal stories and community favorites along the way. Whether it's savoring Maine's blueberry treats or...
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Episode 185: The True Value of Flexible Vacation Planning
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the value of flexibility in travel planning, sharing personal experiences and expert tips on navigating unexpected changes. From work commitments and health issues to weather disruptions and global events, she outlines the potential...
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Episode 184: Why Disneyland Paris Is a Must for Disney Fans
In this warm and insightful episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes travel advisor Grace Korba to share her recent experiences and expert tips for visiting Disneyland Paris. Listeners hear about must-do attractions, dazzling shows, resort options, and practical advice for...
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Episode 183: Easy Pre-Trip Rituals for Stress-Free Travel
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores the art of pre-trip rituals, both practical and personal, that help travelers get ready for adventures like her recent Disney cruise. She shares insights on everything from detailed itinerary planning and strategic packing to…
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Episode 182: Essential Disney Cruise Tips for a Magical Sailing
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....
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Episode 181: Discover the New Norwegian Luna Cruise Experience
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...
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Episode 180: The Power of Community in Solo Female Travel
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...
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Episode 179: Top Reasons Women Choose Solo Travel
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,...
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Episode 178: Finding Inspiration in Women's History While Traveling Solo and with Small Groups
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,...
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Episode 177: Simple Ways to Find Joy in Daily Life and Your Travels
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...
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Episode 176: Our 2027 Group Cruise to Bermuda
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...
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Episode 175: Highlights from Our Group Weekend at Dollywood
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...
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Episode 174: Top Ten Walt Disney World Attractions That Keep Us Coming Back
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...
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Episode 173: Road Trip Ready: The Ultimate Planning Checklist
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,...
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Episode 172: Exploring Iconic Movie and TV Filming Locations Worldwide
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores famous filming locations around the world, from Hollywood and New York to London, Paris, and New Zealand. She shares her personal experiences visiting iconic sites and discusses how movies and TV shows like Stranger Things, Harry...
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Episode 171: Common Travel Blind Spots and How to Overcome Them
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner explores five common travel blind spots, especially for solo travelers. Amanda shares personal experiences and actionable strategies to transform these blind spots into opportunities for more ease, freedom, and joy. Amanda also shares an...
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Episode 170: Exploring the Unique Magic of Dollywood
In 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...
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Episode 169: Essential Tips for Sailing to Alaska from Seattle
Essential Tips for Sailing to Alaska from Seattle: Must-Do Adventures, Navigating Ports, and Packing Tips Host Amanda Bauner is joined by Grace Korba, Angela Batista, and Tim Bigonia to share in-depth details about their recent group cruise to Alaska aboard the Celebrity Edge. They discuss the...
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Episode 168: LIve at Sea: Celebrating Our Group Alaska Cruise
In this special episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner leads a heartfelt, laughter-filled live recording aboard the Celebrity Edge on the group Alaska cruise in July 2025. Amanda and the group share highlights from their Alaska cruise, reflect on the magic of traveling with a group, and...
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Episode 167: Navigating Walt Disney World While Undergoing Cancer Treatment
In this heartfelt episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes back Dawn Niebling to share her inspiring journey through breast cancer and how it shaped her most recent Walt Disney World trip with her family. Dawn offers practical tips for vacation planning and self-care during cancer...
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Episode 166: Unlocking the Power of Vacation Mindset
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner welcomes life and leadership coach Angie Robinson to discuss the importance of cultivating a vacation mindset. Together, they explore how setting intentions before, during, and after a trip can make travel more meaningful and fulfilling. The...
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Episode 165: Essential Solo Road Trip Tips
In this episode, learn essential tips and empowering advice for planning and enjoying a solo road trip. Covering everything from creating flexible itineraries and staying safe to budgeting, healthy habits, and embracing alone time, host Amanda Bauner provides practical examples and personal...
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Episode 164: How to Plan Your Perfect Summer Road Trip
In this episode of Me and the Magic, host Amanda Bauner kicks off a summer road trip series by sharing why summer is the perfect time to hit the road. She offers practical tips on budgeting, planning, and making the most of a summer road trip, including apps to use, ways to save money, and...
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Episode 163: What It's Like to Travel Solo on a Disney Cruise
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner shares her detailed solo adventure aboard the Disney Dream cruise. She discusses her pre-cruise stay in Fort Lauderdale, her smooth embarkation process—including a last-minute concierge upgrade—and dives into shipboard experiences, from spa relaxation to dining...
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Episode 162: Pros and Cons of Booking a Last-Minute Disney Cruise
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner dives into the pros and cons of booking a last-minute Disney cruise. With her upcoming trip on the Disney Dream, she shares insights on flexibility, potential cost savings, and the excitement of spontaneous travel. Amanda also discusses challenges such as…
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Episode 161: Best Destinations and Activities for a Friends' Weekend Getaway
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner explores the joy of weekend getaways with friends. The episode highlights various destinations across North America, from the charming streets of Savannah to the stunning landscapes of Sedona and Banff. Amanda also shares creative activity ideas, such as spa...
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Episode 160: Our 2026 Seine River Cruise
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner explores the enchanting world of river cruises with guests Beci Mahnken and Grace Korba. They reveal details about the exciting 2026 Me and the Magic group trip along the Seine River in France with AmaWaterways, sharing insights on river cruising in Europe and...
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Episode 159: Why Your Travel Plans and Goals May Change
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner discusses adapting travel plans and goals due to various circumstances. She shares personal experiences and offers insights on why flexibility is essential, including work commitments, unforeseen health issues, and natural disasters. Amanda also touches on the...
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Episode 158: All About Solo Travel for Women
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner discusses the growing trend of solo travel for women. She addresses common concerns such as safety, loneliness, and cultural barriers while emphasizing the benefits of personal growth, empowerment, and connections that solo travel can bring. Amanda also...
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Episode 157: Top Travel Trends for 2025
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner explores 2025 travel trends, highlighting solo female travel, slow travel, and conscious travel. She discusses the rising popularity of eco-friendly trips, such as visiting Japan's Yakushima Island and staying at sustainable lodgings in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee....
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Programming Note: Happy Holidays!
Amanda is enjoying the holidays and wishes the same for you! Happy Holidays! 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…
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Episode 156: Best Destinations for Festive Holiday Fun
Host Amanda Bauner explores festive holiday destinations across the U.S. Highlights include Connecticut's Christmas Movie Trail and New York City's iconic holiday attractions. Amanda discusses Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas in Pigeon Forge, Charlotte's Winterfest, and Bethlehem,...
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Episode 155: Best Port Excursions and Activities for Your Alaska Cruise
Host Amanda Bauner and guest Grace Korba delve into Alaska cruise excursions. They explore Ketchikan's cultural highlights and independent exploration, discuss whale watching in Juneau, and navigate Skagway's food scene and historical tours. Emphasizing personalized excursions and insightful tips...
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Episode 154: Solo Travel Tips for Walt Disney World
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner and guest Matt Krul from the Imagination Skyway podcast discuss solo travel at Walt Disney World. They share valuable tips for planning, dining, and flexibility. Amanda recounts her variety of solo trips, while Matt highlights his experiences as a Disney Cast...
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Episode 153: The Magic of Women's Travel Groups
In this episode of the Me and the Magic podcast, host Amanda Bauner welcomes guest Doni Belau, founder of Girls' Guide to the World. Doni shares her journey of empowering women through curated travel experiences. They discuss the value of knowledgeable guides, authentic travel, and fostering...
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Episode 152: The Life of Walt Disney in Los Angeles
Host Amanda Bauner and guest Angie Robinson explore Walt Disney's legacy through a Los Angeles trip. The episode highlights the deep emotional connection to Walt Disney's life and the joy of exploring his historical sites. They visit Walt Disney's mansion, noting its impressive architecture and...
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Episode 151: Our Adventures by Disney Southern California & Disneyland Trip Recap
In this episode, we have a truly magical recap of our recent Adventures by Disney trip to Southern California and Disneyland. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary experiences that made this trip unforgettable. Enter Our Giveaway Go to this episode page, MeAndTheMagic.com/151, and click on…
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Episode 150: Fall and Halloween at WDW and Disneyland
Amanda Bauner hosts guests Angie Robinson, Erin Van Quill, and Glenn Ramirez to discuss their experiences at Halloween events in Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Topics include the seasonal attraction overlays, Halloween decor at the Disney parks and resorts, and seasonal food and drinks. The...
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Episode 149: Top Destinations for Halloween Fun
Host Amanda Bauner delves into Halloween festivities across the U.S. Despite not being a Halloween fan, Amanda highlights family-friendly and adult-only destinations, spanning from Salem, Massachusetts, and Sleepy Hollow, New York, to Savannah, Georgia, and Las Vegas, Nevada. She explores unique...
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Episode 148: Best Places to Visit in Fall
Host Amanda Bauner shares her top recommendations for the best fall travel destinations in the United States. Reflecting on her passion for autumn and extensive travel research, Amanda highlights both popular and lesser-known spots, including Indiana's festivals, New York City's vibrant theater...
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Episode 147: Discover Disneyland Solo: Insights from Experienced Travelers
Host Amanda Bauner and guests Christine Wallaine and Jen Schoen delve into the nuances of solo trips to Disneyland. They discuss dining tips, reservation strategies, and highlights of special events like World of Color dessert parties and Oogie Boogie Bash. The episode explores both the benefits...
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Episode 146: Best Caribbean Beaches and Volunteercations
Bee Davis, founder of Life, Love & Travel and podcast host of Beachside Banter with Bee, is here to share her favorite beaches in the Caribbean islands. We talk about how to find the best beaches and travel tips for solo beachgoers. Plus, Bee has been volunteering while on vacation for awhile…
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Episode 145: Tips for Traveling with Physical Disabilities
Learn valuable tips for those traveling with physical abilities, as well as their caregivers, in this talk with authority and disability advocate Win Charles. Win mentioned using Visiting Angels to help while traveling. Learn more about Visiting Angels here. Listen to Win's podcast on YouTube…
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Episode 144: Navigating Spiritual and Creative Journeys with Digital Nomad Catherine Gairard
In this episode, host Amanda Bauner and musician and digital nomad Catherine Gairard explore their mutual love for travel and spiritual experiences, from witnessing Cozumel's "green ray" to the historical Parthenon. Catherine shares tips for intuitive, safe solo travel and her journey developing...
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Episode 143: Everything You Need to Know to Enjoy a Music Festival Solo
Attending a music festival alone might seem daunting, but it can be one of the most liberating and rewarding experiences you'll ever have. In this episode, we discuss what you need to know to attend a music festival solo, including why you should go solo and tips on how to stay safe. We share…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Me and the Magic provides solo travel and vacation planning tips, dining and resort reviews, and much more. Join Amanda Bauner on her travels around the United States and different parts of the world, including Disney destinations and Disney cruises.
HOSTED BY
Amanda Bauner: Solo Travel Expert, Podcaster, and Blogger
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Me and the Magic have?
Me and the Magic currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Me and the Magic about?
Me and the Magic provides solo travel and vacation planning tips, dining and resort reviews, and much more. Join Amanda Bauner on her travels around the United States and different parts of the world, including Disney destinations and Disney cruises.
How often does Me and the Magic release new episodes?
Me and the Magic has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Me and the Magic?
You can listen to Me and the Magic on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Me and the Magic?
Me and the Magic is created and hosted by Amanda Bauner: Solo Travel Expert, Podcaster, and Blogger.
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