Sip, Savor & Travel

Exploring Sidney, BC: Nautical Adventures and Local Delights

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Diva Saturday,” travel writer Linda Kissam, the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” shares her recent adventures in Sidney, British Columbia—a lovely seaside town on Vancouver Island that’s rich with culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.
This lively conversation highlights the charm of Sidney, from strolling the waterfront walkway and exploring local bookstores to savoring delicious pastries from the town’s famed bakery. Linda also spotlights the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, multicultural dining experiences, and the area’s vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Linda also shares insights on the local transit system that connects Sidney to nearby attractions like Victoria and Butchart Gardens—where high tea, boutique shopping, and beautiful gardens await. Whether by land or sea, Sidney offers a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation that makes it a must-visit destination.
🔗 Read the article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/nautical-adventures-exploring-the-beauty-of-sidney-british-columbia/ 
🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj 
🌐 Linda’s travel blog: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
🎙️ Also hear this episode on Big Blend’s “Parks & Travel” and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Roche Harbor: A Boating Destination in Washington State

Celebrate American Adventures Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Diva Saturday” with travel writer Linda Kissam, the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Linda joins us to share her recent private boating experience in Washington’s Roche Harbor, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic marine destinations.
This fun and insightful conversation highlights Roche Harbor’s unique local culture, from famous donuts and fresh fish dishes to scenic sculpture parks, historic gardens and trails, boutique shopping, and relaxing spa experiences. Linda also describes traditions like the nightly cannon ceremony that fosters a strong sense of community on the island.
We also explore the realities of boating life—navigating marina costs, docking reservations, waste and water management, and the growing role of technology like Starlink and electric carts. For anyone dreaming of coastal cruising or planning a water-based getaway, this episode is packed with practical tips and delightful travel insights.
🔗 Read Diva Linda’s article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/visiting-roche-harbor-washington-by-private-boat/ 🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 🌐 Linda’s travel blog: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 🎙️ Also hear this episode on Big Blend’s “Parks & Travel,” "Big Daily Blend," and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Charm of Point Defiance Rose Garden in Tacoma

This episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Linda Kissam, “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” who shares her recent visit to the stunning Point Defiance Rose Garden in Tacoma, Washington. From the garden’s rich history and environmental significance to its natural beauty and community value, this conversation is a tribute to the Pacific Northwest’s floral charm. Discover how the region’s climate helps roses thrive, how nature and public spaces foster well-being, and why the garden is a perfect place for everything from peaceful picnics to family outings.
📖 Read Linda’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/point-defiance-rose-garden-in-tacoma/ 
🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 
🌐 Follow Diva Linda’s adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
🎙️ Also listen on Big Blend’s Garden Gossip podcast channel: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Planning the Ultimate Summer Picnic

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Special guest Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce joins the show to talk about seasonal produce, healthy snacks, and gourmet goodies perfect for a memorable summer picnic.
In this lively conversation, Linda and Robert share their dream picnic companions and destinations, essential food ideas, and healthy snack options. They explore creative recipes, dessert ideas to sweeten your spread, and fun picnic themes to take your gathering to the next level. Plus, hear about the latest trends in summer produce and the importance of clean picnicking practices.
🔗 Read Linda’s article: “The Ultimate Summer Picnic”https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-ultimate-summer-picnic/ 
🔗 Listen to Linda Kissam’s travel and food adventures on Big Blend Radio: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 
🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures:https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend’s "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.Explore more shows on Big Blend Radio’s Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Indulge Guilt-Free with Coco Polo Bliss Sugarless Chocolates

On this tasty episode of Big Blend Radio, travel and food writer Linda Kissam—aka the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva”—shares her review of Coco Polo Bliss sugarless chocolate. She describes it as “a hidden gem in the candy aisle,” and dives into the brand’s rich, creamy texture and deliciously bold flavors.
Crafted for chocolate lovers who want to avoid added sugars without giving up indulgence, Coco Polo Bliss is GMO-free, sustainably made, and perfect for anyone living a low-sugar or low-carb lifestyle. With its beautiful packaging and clean ingredients, it also makes a thoughtful gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion worth celebrating with a healthier sweet treat.
👉 Read Linda’s full review: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-foodies-guide-to-sugarless-chocolates/ 🎧 Listen to Diva Linda on Big Blend Radio (first Saturdays):  https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 

A Foodie's Guide to Agritopia in Gilbert, Arizona

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks about Agritopia, a culinary haven in Gilbert, Arizona, that invites food lovers to experience farm-to-table dining like never before. 
With its community gardens, artisanal eateries, and vibrant farmer’s market, this unique planned urban farming development blends agriculture with gastronomy, creating a feast for the senses. Read Linda's article about the unique housing, attractions, and amenities in Agritopia: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-foodies-guide-to-agritopia-in-gilbert-arizona/ 
Travel writer Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj 
Follow Diva Linda's adventures here: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
This episode is also being shared and featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" channel and "Garden Gossip" Channel. Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Campfire Cuisine: An Upscale Taste of Adventure

As summer draws near and the call of nature beckons, campers are looking for ways to elevate their outdoor dining experience beyond the standard fare of hot dogs and s’mores.
On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks with Robert Schueller about how Melissa’s World Variety Produce is changing the game with their innovative approach to upscale campsite cuisine. Melissa’s diverse selection of fresh produce and culinary inspiration is a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts seeking flavorful and nutritious meal ideas to fuel their escapades. 
Read Linda's article featuring 10 cuisine-inspired things to stock up on that go beyond hot dogs and s’mores, and check out some of Melissa's camping recipes, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/an-upscale-taste-of-adventure 
Travel writer Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj 
Follow Diva Linda's adventures here: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
This episode is also being shared and featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" channel and "Parks & Travel" Channel. Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

A Tea Tasting Wellness Journey with Amu Nutrition

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks with Khulan Enkhtaivan, founder of Amu Nutrition, about their wellness teas. Linda's tasting experience was informative and engaging, delving into the unique flavors, health benefits, and cultural significance of their teas. Read her story about it here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-tea-tasting-journey-with-amu-nutrition/ 
Hailing from Mongolia, Khulan Enkhtaivan, founder of Amu Nutrition and entrepreneur by trade, is also a trained and certified ayurvedic nutritionist who has dedicated her life and career to supporting people’s journey to achieving optimal health. Khulan seeks to share Mongolia’s “food as medicine” philosophy with the American market, inviting consumers to experience tea not just as a beverage, but as a vital component of their self-care practices. Amu Nutrition’s Mongolian heritage is infused in every sip as the tea is made exclusively from wild harvested herbs sourced in the pristine Altai mountains of Mongolia. More: https://amu-nutrition.com/ 
Travel writer Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj 
Follow Diva Linda's adventures here: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
This episode is also being shared and featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," "Women Making History," and "Quality of Life" channels. Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork