Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast

In this first bonus episode of Amateur Traveler, we discuss how and why to travel solo, even if you are not single.My Guest:Beth Santos is the founder and CEO of Wanderful, a global community and lifestyle brand that aims to empower and connect women who travel. She is also the author of Wander Woman, in which she shares insights and advice on solo travel, particularly for women.Beth focuses on encouraging women to explore the world independently and safely. She challenges common misconceptions about solo travel, especially the notion that it is only for single people or those without families. She emphasizes that solo travel can be a valuable and empowering experience for anyone, regardless of their personal circumstances.In addition to her work with Wonderful, Beth is known for advocating female empowerment in travel and her efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women travelers.Questions:In the podcast episode, several key questions and topics related to solo travel are addressed:What is solo travel, and who is it for?What are the benefits of solo travel?How can women travel solo safely?What practical advice is there for planning a solo trip?How do you handle loneliness when traveling solo?What are the challenges and rewards of eating alone while traveling?How can solo travelers balance planning and spontaneity?What should you pack for a solo trip?What can someone learn from solo travel?How can someone prepare for their first solo trip?https://amateurtraveler.com/solo-travel/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to Romania and Northern Hungary as the Amateur Traveler talks to Lisa VanderVeen about her recent Intrepid trip to the area.Why should you go to Romania?Lisa says, "Romania is much more than Dracula and Vlad Tepes, though I will confess that was my initial draw to the country. It's got a great diversity of landscape and a multi layered history going way, way back. And then also as recently as the, communist times. Lots of really interesting museums to visit.""In terms of the topography and the geography, it's just amazing. It's got beautiful towns the Maramures region has a history of weavings and just the colors, red, orange, pink, and blue with the haystacks dotting the rolling hills and the mountains in the backdrop are really stunning.""The Carpathian Mountains are moody and they're filled with lore and at the same time they feel a little bit like Switzerland. There's great beauty, great history, and wonderful food and wine in Romania."Here's the itinerary of the trip to Romania and Northern Hungary as described by Lisa: Budapest, Hungary:Start the trip in Budapest, Lisa's favorite European city, known for its architecture, the Danube River, the Fisherman's Bastion, and thermal baths. Eger, Hungary: Travel by train to Eger, a small town with Baroque architecture, a notable history of resisting the Ottomans, and a rich wine tradition. Explore the Castle of Eger and the Valley of Beautiful Women, known for its wine cellars. Visit the Basilica of St. John the Apostle and the Camera Obscura. ...https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-romania/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angie Orth, a travel blogger and Jacksonville native, shares her passion for Northeastern Florida. She highlights the region’s hidden historical gems beyond theme parks, from the scenic trails of Fort Clinch State Park to the charming bed-and-breakfasts of Amelia Island. Angie discusses the unique culture of Jacksonville's low-key beaches and the eventful downtown riverfront. She delves into St. Augustine's rich history, including Fort Mose and the famous alligator farm, while emphasizing the area's southern charm and outdoor adventures.

Hear about a road trip at the top of the world in Northern Norway as the Amateur Traveler talks to Torunn Tronsvang from Up Norway about this scenic but remote destination.Why should you go to Northern Norway?Torunn says, "There are so many good reasons why one should go to Northern Norway, and I think just as an introduction to Norway, I think it's worth mentioning the trend now of cool cations — skipping the hot and steamy Southern Europe and rather going up North to Norway. to Norway and Northern Norway.""And Northern Norway, of course, if I were to summarize in one word, regardless of season, I'd say, go there for the light. Because in the summer, you have the midnight sun, which means that you have this magical, radiant light all day and all night. If you go there in winter, you have the northern lights, but you also have arctic lights, so you have color nuances of pink, orange, sometimes turquoise, of course, you have the very green-yellow northern lights on clear and starry nights"Torunn recommends this itinerary...https://amateurtraveler.com/road-trip-in-northern-norway/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the Maldives in the Indian Ocean as the Amateur Traveler talks to David Brodie from Travel in 10 about his experience in this tropical paradise.Why should you go to the Maldives?"I think it's a place that a lot of people have probably seen influencer videos or postcards of the luxury resorts that are there. And it does have. probably some of the most luxurious island resorts you're going to find anywhere in the world. Crystal clear waters, incredible snorkeling, incredible diving, and really at that luxury end of the spectrum, there is an enormous amount of properties on their own islands there, throughout the, about 187 islands that are populated in the island chain, about 160 of those 160 plus that have. Resorts on them.""I say, really some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world and a whole new sort of aspect to tourism that's developing there with the opening up of the local islands and the local island tourism that's emerging there now as well."Trip OverviewDavid's adventure in the Maldives was part of a larger trip that explored multiple countries. After his family returned home from Singapore, David continued on his own, making the Maldives a key highlight of his solo journey. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, the Maldives did not disappoint....https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-maldives-2/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hear about travel to the region of Castile and León in Spain as the Amateur Traveler talks to Ethan Witthun about the region where he studied abroad.Day 1: AvilaMorning: Walk the Murallas (Walls): Start early to walk along the medieval walls of Avila, known for being one of the most complete medieval walls in Spain. Purchase an Avila card online for easy access and an audio guide. Visit the Cathedral of Avila: Explore this unique cathedral, which is part of the wall, and features distinct red stone in its construction. Afternoon: Visit the Basilica of San Vicente: Known for its unique architecture and the shrine of San Vicente. Lunch at Restaurante Las Murallas: Enjoy a famous steak while sitting outside with views of the walls. Visit Los Cuatro Postes: Head here during siesta time for a panoramic view of Avila and its walls.  ...https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-castile-and-leon-spain/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sibu Szymanowska, an adventure tour guide known for her positive travels in challenging destinations, shares her insights on Afghanistan. She discusses the surprising beauty and rich culture of the country, encouraging travelers to explore beyond media portrayals. From historical sites in Kabul to the breathtaking landscapes of Bamiyan, Sibu shares essential tips for navigating the region. With a focus on local guides and cultural understanding, she highlights the resilience and warmth of Afghan people, promising a transformative experience for adventurous travelers.

Jo Clark from Myrtle Beach shares why Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination. Discussions include the extensive coastline, rice plantations, iconic landmarks, beach music, German POWs, Belle Baruch's story, and entertainment options like Pelicans games.

Hear about travel the Great West Way from London to Bristol as the Amateur Traveler talks to Penny Sadler, who writes Adventures of a Carry-on, about her recent trip to Southwest England.Penny Sadler is a freelance writer covering wine, food, travel, and lifestyle topics. Her work has appeared in CNBC Travel, Culture Magazine, Matador Network, InsideHook, The Alcohol Professor, Vintner Project, The Cheese Professor, and elsewhere. She’s a Wine, Spirits Education Trust graduate and hosts tastings in her free time.Why should you go?Penny says, "The Great West Way is a historic route and basically now a tourist route that goes from London to Bristol. From London to Bristol is about two hours, and along the way, there are charming market towns, old pubs, castle ruins, rolling hills, and lots of farmland, it's very rural Stonehenge, Avebury, there's so much to see."Penny Sadler's itinerary for the Great West Way offers a scenic and historically rich journey from east to west. Here is a breakdown of the recommended destinations, sorted from east to west:London Activities: Stay at The Mayfair Townhouse. Join a food tour with Devour Tours, visiting historic pubs and Borough Market. Explore Southwark Cathedral, Hatton Garden, and Daunt Books for Travellers. ...https://amateurtraveler.com/the-great-west-way-in-england/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nir ben Dov shares his love-hate relationship with India, recommending a Delhi visit and exploring historic places. He highlights the vibrant colors and chaos that make India intriguing. The podcast covers navigating through bustling cities, visiting the Taj Mahal, hiring a driver for convenience, and experiencing diverse cultural rituals in India.