Ever dreamt of riding the world’s fastest roller coaster or discovering the next big Disney park before the crowds? This week on Stacking Adventures, Crystal and Joe Saul-Sehy trade hiking boots for roller coaster harnesses in a theme park episode packed with thrills, insider tips, and laugh-out-loud travel tales.

They’re joined by legendary theme park journalist Robert Niles from Theme Park Insider, who spills details from his recent globe-trotting adventure—including a massive announcement about a brand-new Disney theme park coming to Abu Dhabi.

From planning hacks and can’t-miss attractions to splurges that are actually worth it (hint: don’t skip the early entry pass), this episode helps you get the most fun per dollar out of any park visit. Whether you’re a coaster junkie, food stand connoisseur, or just trying to survive summer vacation with your budget intact, you’ll find plenty to pack into your next theme park adventure.

• Why Cedar Point, Kings Dominion, and Busch Gardens still make the A-list

• The real scoop on Disney’s next mega park in the Middle East

• Tips to skip lines, beat the heat, and avoid overpriced regret

• Insider previews of Epic Universe, Siren’s Curse, and other wild new rides

• When to splurge on upgrades—and when to pocket that churro cash

• Budget tips for families, plus why timing your visit can make or break it

• Theme park food that’s actually worth the calories (yes, they exist)

• Robert’s personal favorite hidden gems and underrated parks

• How to avoid letting your memory bank ruin your money decisions—even at theme parks

So grab your virtual FastPass and take this ride with us. Got your own theme park story? Share it with us—we want to hear your best (or most disastrous) moments!

What do you get when you mix alpine grandeur, French wine, and a few awkward encounters with public transportation? The trek of a lifetime.

Joe and Crystal sit down with globe-trotting guest David to relive his incredible Tour du Mont Blanc—an iconic hike that crosses France, Italy, and Switzerland. From cultural quirks to culinary delights (hello, croissants and polenta!), David shares what it’s really like to hike Europe’s most scenic loop.

You’ll hear trail-tested tips on how to train, what to pack, and how to avoid blowing your budget—or your knees—on the way. Whether you’re planning your own hiking getaway or just dreaming from the couch, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and a few “you won’t believe this” moments from the trail.

• 🎬 The Sound of Music made us do it: What movie scenes and mountain views have in common

• 🥾 Crossing borders on foot: Why the Tour du Mont Blanc is the ultimate passport stamp

• 🎒 What NOT to forget in your pack (and what David says you absolutely don’t need)

• 💡 Accommodations, luggage hacks, and trail shortcuts for the savvy traveler

• 🍷 Why hiking is better with wine and what David learned about blending adventure and indulgence

• 🧀 Croissants in France, coffee in Italy, fondue in Switzerland… need we say more?

• 🗣️ Struggling with French? We’ve got stories—and survival phrases

• 🚶‍♂️ What to know about rest days, restrooms, and rustic beds

Whether you're dreaming of alpine treks or just here for the croissant jokes, this episode is your trailhead to adventure.

🧭 Thinking about planning your own trip? David now runs Blaze Adventure Tours—hear how he custom-builds trips for hikers and cyclists who want the thrill without the stress.

David's company link: Home - Blaze Adventure Tours- Bicycle Tours and Backpacking

Is it Caribbean or Caribbe-an? We kick off this episode of Stacking Adventures with the great pronunciation debate—then head straight into a destination you can explore without needing a passport: Puerto Rico.

Hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond welcome travel advisor Donna Pelletier from Vacations by Donna, who shares highlights from her recent pre-cruise mini-adventure in Puerto Rico. While it wasn’t a deep-dive vacation, Donna packed in just enough to give us a taste of what’s possible in a short visit—and how to make the most of your own.

In this episode:

• Where to stay when time is limited (Donna’s take on the Hilton Garden Inn)

• Smart ways to squeeze in dining, cocktails, and local flavor without overcommitting

• Kayaking, ATVs, casinos, and other mini excursions worth considering

• A few surprising insights—like how a quick stop at Walmart can save your trip

• How to lower stress and costs when adding Puerto Rico to your cruise itinerary

Plus, don’t miss our Gear of the Day pick that can save your soles when you’re pounding pavement between piña coladas.

Whether Puerto Rico is your main event or just a quick stop, this episode is full of practical, doable adventure hacks for travelers on the go.