Join travel writer Barbara Redding along with Troy Campa and Rene Ibarra of Camiba Cultural Tours as they share how responsible tourism supports ecosystems, preserves culture, and connects travelers to meaningful experiences. It's the perfect episode to celebrate Earth Day!

Discover the incredible migration of the Monarch Butterfly to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and learn how local communities and conservation efforts are working together to protect this natural wonder.

🌿 In this episode: Monarch butterfly migration and conservation Responsible tourism and ecological impact Cultural immersion through local experiences Supporting communities through travel

From the colonial beauty of Morelia to immersive cultural and nature-based experiences across Mexico and Latin America, this conversation highlights how travel can be a force for good.

👉 Explore more: https://www.camibaculturaltours.com/ https://linktr.ee/camibaculturaltours https://barbararedding.com/

📰 Read Barbara’s articles: - https://shebuystravel.com/monarch-butterfly-biosphere-reserve/ - https://rovology.com/mexico/morelia-and-monarchs-a-journey-into-mexicos-rose-colored-colonial-heartland/

🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us to Coastal Mississippi, where spring and summer bring a vibrant mix of festivals, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal experiences. From exciting events like Cruisin’ the Coast and Jeepin’ the Coast, to the region’s deep-rooted maritime traditions, this episode showcases the culture, community, and charm of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

A major highlight is the new Amtrak route connecting Mobile and New Orleans, offering travelers a relaxing and scenic way to explore the coast. Lisa also shares insights into the historic Blessing of the Fleet, the thriving seafood industry, and unique nature experiences like the Hummingbird Festival in Moss Point.

Whether you're planning a festival-filled getaway, a culinary adventure, or a laid-back coastal escape, this episode highlights why Coastal Mississippi is a must-visit destination.

FOLLOW JOURNEY JUKEBOX 🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 📖 Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 6pm CST: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/

📚 LISA EVANS TRAVEL RESOURCES: - Get Lisa's book, "101 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die": https://www.amazon.com/100-Things-Coastal-Mississippi-Before/dp/1681063824 - Changes in Attitude Margaritaville at Sea Group Cruise: https://gosmart-group-trips.vercel.app/trip/changes-in-attitude

🗺️ COASTAL MISSISSIPPI EVENTS & TRAVEL RESOURCES: - Jeepin the Coast: https://jeepinthecoast.com/ - Blessing of the Fleet: https://stmichaelchurchbiloxi.com/blessing-of-the-fleet - Mississippi Songwriters Festival: https://www.msafestival.org/ - Hummingbird Festival: https://www.audubon.org/delta/news/hummingbird-festival-coming-2026 - Cruisin the Coast: https://cruisinthecoast.com/ - Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival: https://peterandersonfestival.com/ - Ship Island Excursions: https://msshipisland.com/ - OS1515 Downtown: https://os1515.com/ - The Pass Bungalows: https://www.passbungalows.com/ - Siren Social Club: https://www.sirensocial.com/about/

Photos courtesy Lisa Evans & CoastalMississippi.com

Featuring co-host Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of Travel Avoyelles, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel Avoyelles” Podcast highlights two of the region’s most exciting spring festivals that celebrate heritage, community, and tradition.

Special guest Ryan Lopez shares insights into the Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow (May 16–17, 2026) at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville. Discover the cultural significance of powwows, from traditional dance, music, and storytelling to educational programs, Native foods, and community connection. Learn about cultural etiquette, the powwow’s history, and the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions.

The episode also features Ramondo Ramos, who discusses the Cochon de Lait Festival (May 8–10, 2026) in Mansura—home of the Cochon de Lait Capital of the World. This beloved event celebrates Cajun culinary heritage with whole pig roasting over open fires, live music, contests, family activities, and a strong sense of community pride.

From Native American heritage to Cajun food traditions, this episode showcases how Avoyelles Parish brings people together through unforgettable cultural experiences.

LINKS & RESOURCES 🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com 🔗 Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow: https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/2026-pow-wow/ 🔗 Cochon de Lait Festival: https://www.cochondelaitfestival.com/index.html 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/