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Beyond Your Backyard - Chicago, IL

Get ready for fun! Chicago is home to a number of firsts including the invention of the Tootsie Roll, the world's first Ferris wheel and so much more. I'll explore neighborhoods and sample a Chicago-style hot dog!

Destination Spotlight - Branson, Missouri

Branson, Missouri is a popular vacation destination that offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. The city is best known for its lively entertainment scene, with shows featuring music, comedy, and magic, among others.

Beyond Your Backyard - Little Rock Part 1

Erik explores Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas in this episode of Beyond Your Backyard. Diversity in unique neighborhoods, a thriving downtown district and outdoor recreation are all part of the fun.

Destination Spotlight - Denver, CO

Let me take you on a journey to the Mile High City, Denver, Colorado, for a memorable vacation. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a thriving metropolis that boasts a stunning array of outdoor recreational opportunities, world-class museums, and a thriving culinary scene. 

Beyond Your Backyard - Mackinac Island, MI

Discover Mackinac Island, Michigan, a quaint and historic destination with delicious food, unique shops, and breathtaking sights.

Travel Tip - What's Worth It In Las Vegas

Las Vegas has made incredible strides when it comes to renovating its “Sin City” reputation into something more family-friendly.

Erik's Note - Curacao

Did I mention I just returned from Curaçao? Did I mention I loved it? Consider yourself on notice…Curaçao is fantastic.

Beyond Your Backyard - Winston-Salem, NC

Join Erik as he gets a history lesson about the Moravian culture of Old Salem. Prepare to be entertained as he challenges a professional baker to a cookie-making race at Mrs. Hanes Moravian Cookies, and fine tune your senses as he experiences the grandeur of The Reynolda House Museum of American Art. He’ll also dig into some delicious and award winning southern cuisine at his visit to Sweet Potatoes Restaurant.

Travel Tip - Do's & Don'ts of Mexican Travel

The news can be a scary thing, can’t it? It can especially be frightening if you’ve got an upcoming trip to Mexico planned. Well, I want to ease your fears. Traveling to our Southern neighbor has some risks but there are ways to mitigate those risks if you know what you’re doing. That’s why I’ve compiled some dos and don’ts for traveling to Mexico!

Destination Spotlight - Chicago, IL

Chicago is a classic American city filled with unique neighborhoods, stunning architecture, delicious food and lots to see and do!

Travel Hack - Boarding Time vs. Departure Time

This is a huge travel tip! Plan your air travel by the boarding time NOT the departure time! Do you know the difference? This video explains WHY this is the best air travel practice!

Destination Spotlight - Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Island simply put, is a magical place. I visit almost every year with my family and extended family and it feels like a second home.

Beyond Your Backyard - New Orleans, LA

In celebration of Mardi Gras this month, take a look at my trip to New Orleans. My goodness, the food, the music, the energy...you're going to have the time of your life!

Destination Spotlight - Lafayette, LA

Lafayette, LA isn’t called the “The Happiest City in America” just because it sounds good. It earned that name by being a community filled with good people who greet visitors with warm smiles, delicious food, and authentic, inclusive Cajun culture. By simply walking the streets of Lafayette, you will see what I mean. 

Destination Spotlight - Baltimore, MD

Ah, yes, Baltimore. The largest city in Maryland and yet it often gets overshadowed by its close neighbor Washington, DC. But believe me, Baltimore is a city ready to welcome you with open arms.

Beyond Your Backyard - Muskogee, OK

On this edition of Beyond Your Backyard, I find out why so many people are “Proud to be an Okie from Muskogee.” The crew and I travel to this quaint Oklahoma town to learn about the history of the Girl Scouts, the Trail of Tears and the local country music connection.

Destination Spotlight - Montauk, NY

You know what they say…meet me in Montauk! And in case you haven’t been, please allow me to expound. Montauk is located at the very end of Long Island (to the east) after the Hamptons. It is a charming beach community featuring miles of sandy beaches, lush, green state parks, quaint shopping and dining districts and plenty of accommodation options if you book in advance.

Three BBQ Stops in the USA

BBQ, Barbecue or barbeque, it doesn't matter how to you say it or spell it. This video shows you a few of my favorite places to get the Q! In addition to Dr. BBQ, we should you step-by-step how to make BBQ sauce and it's delicious! Fire up the Smokehouse! This video is for bold flavors, smoked meats, pulled chicken or pork, ribs and all the sides!

Beyond Your Backyard - PA's Great Outdoors Region

A return visit to this region of Pennsylvania proves to be even more fun for the whole family! I'll show you more about the French and Indian war, discovers a wild Elk herd and so much more. I'll also explores Cook Forest State Park, get behind the gears of a missive piece of machinery and sample delicious rustic cuisine. 

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