Episodes
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This week on Passport to Everywhere, the focus is on the charming, mystical country of Ireland. Melissa is joined by Indagare Destinations Director John Cantrell as they swap tips for making the most of a trip to the Emerald Isle. John – with his decades of trip planning experience –– speaks about some of his favorite castle properties, top activities (don’t miss the Trinity College Library or the Ballymaloe Cookery School), and other itinerary musts. From Northern Ireland to Dublin and across to Galway, John and Melissa dive into everything you need to know before planning your visit.
Melissa also speaks with Liam Krehbiel, the co-owner of Ballyfin, one of Ireland’s most historic and spectacular hotels. Located in County Laois (approx. 90 minutes by car from Dublin), the grand country estate was built in the 1820s. After a love at first sight experience, the property was purchased by Liam’s father in 2002, and he spent nearly a decade restoring it and shaping it into the refined 5-star luxury hotel it is today. Liam and his brother have continued their father’s legacy at Ballyfin, and the hotel remains in a class of its own with its one-of-a-kind rooms, stunning gardens, impressive art collection and romantic library. As they walk through the history of the grand yet intimate property, Liam and Melissa explore the culture and approachability of Ireland. He also reveals his favorite golf courses, speaks to the Irish art scene, shares what’s exciting him most in Dublin and more. Tune in to discover not only how this “fancy house in a Jane Austen novel” still feels warm and approachable, but also to determine what to do on your next trip to Ireland.
For more on Ireland, head to Indagare.com to check out our destination guides and sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest travel news and tips.
For more information about Liam Kreihbel and to learn more about Ballyfin and its offerings, visit www.ballyfin.com. To stay up to date with the hotel check out @BallyfinDemesne on Instagram and DemesneBallyfin on Facebook.
To take part in the Power of Travel global survey, which enters you for a chance to win a three-night stay in Paris, click here. -
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Jasper Conran is one of the most celebrated and renowned British designers of our time. To name just a few career highlights… he designed the wedding dress for Lady Sarah Elizabeth Chatto, the granddaughter of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, clothing for Princess Diana; he created numerous sets and costumes for ballets and operas, and has designed everything from home decor to accessories and luggage. Later in his career, he turned his attention to Morocco - the subject of this episode - where he designed two historic hotels: first, L’Hotel Marrakech and, most recently, Villa Mabrouka in Tangier which just opened in June this year. In this episode, Jasper shares his storied and serendipitous career path with Melisssa; from realizing his childhood dream, receiving an unexpected Olivier Award in theater, to now finding himself immersed in the world of hospitality.
Through poetic passion, Jasper explores how Tangier and Marrakech fuse ancient and modern culture, and how the most “marvelous thing about Marrakech is that most of the secrets are behind closed doors.” He gives a glimpse of his journey in creating the historic 19th century riad L’Hotel Marrakech in the heart of Medina, and what inspired him to later renovate the former home of Yves Saint Laurent into the award-winning Villa Mabrouka. He shares his favorite spots in Tangier including Italian writer and botanist Umberto Pasti’s garden, the places he still wants to travel, and the countries that have impacted him most (for instance, Kashmir on a houseboat with flower sellers in the rain).
Plus, Melissa shares her latest discoveries from a recent trip she took to Florence, as well as tips for traveling with pets over the holiday season.
For more information on our 2024 Insider Journey heading to magical Tangier, explore here.For more information about Jasper Conran and to see his latest collections and designs, visit www.jasperconran.com. To stay up to date with Jasper and his brand, check out his personal account @jasperconran and his shop account @jasperconranlondon on Instagram.
For more information on Villa Mabruka and to book your stay in Tangier, head to villamabrouka.com. To check out L'Hôtel Marrakech in the Medina, visit l-hotelmarrakech.com.
If you’re interested in joining the Indagare Insider Journey, Inside Tangier: Private Houses & Gardens, hosted by Melissa Biggs Bradley in May 2024, visit Indagare.com/InsiderJourneys.
You can read Indagare COO Eliza Harris’ personal reflection on her experience during the recent earthquake in Morocco and more on the non-profit, Education For All, in the article here.
For the latest news and more on Melissa’s recent discoveries, sign up for the Indagare newsletter by visiting Indagare.com.
To take part in the Power of Travel global survey, which enters you for a chance to win a three-night stay in Paris, click here. -
Potter, author, and renowned global designer Jonathan Adler joins Melissa to talk about travel style and design. Jonathan has created one of the leading design labels of our time through his colorful and modern American glamor patterns and designs. He left his day job in film to pursue his passion for pottery, and 10 years later opened his first store in SoHo. His namesake brand is now a leading global design company with stores in Chicago, New York and a new location in London. With humor, Jonathan shares his unexpected path to success with Melissa. He reveals how following his love for pottery redirected his life with purpose, as well as his inspiration behind the design of the iconic Parker Palm Springs in California, and who he identifies as his favorite muse.
In this episode, Melissa and Jonathan explore the idea of re-inventing oneself, both stylistically and in one’s career. Jonathan also shares the story behind his work with Aid to Artisans and how he stumbled into love with Peruvian weaving. As Jonathan says, “modern, clean design with soulful craft is about the magic” and Jonathan delivers magic through charm and wit. He also shares his favorite places to travel, including an intense enthusiasm for everyone to experience Japan, and where he wants to go next. Melissa ends the episode by sharing Jonathan’s favorite favorite hotels with design in mind.
For more information about Jonathan Adler and to view his collections and retail locations, visit www.jonathanadler.com. For Jonathan’s latest updates, and to see more of his Modern American Glamour vision, follow him on X, @jonathanadler, Instagram @jonathanadler and TikTok @jonathanadler. For more information on the hotels mentioned in today’s episode and for the latest travel news and hotel openings, visit Indagare.com to sign up for our newsletter.
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Kristine Tompkins is the former CEO of Patagonia and the co-founder and president of Tompkins Conservation. Recently profiled by the prolific Academy-award winning duo Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Versalyi in the National Geographic documentary Wild Life, Kris’s daring, adventurous, bold endeavors with her husband Doug Tompkins continue to create ripples of lasting change. After serving as the CEO of Patagonia for 20 years, she uprooted her life and moved to Chile for her love of Doug and the wild landscape of Patagonia. They set out on a journey of creating and expanding 15 national parks and two marine parks in Argentina and Chile, and are celebrated as two of the most successful national park philanthropists today. After Doug tragically passed away in 2015, Kris has carried on his legacy through entrepreneurial, heart-driven activism.
On today’s episode, Kris details the daunting undertaking of creating and expanding national parks in Chile and Argentina, explains her remarkable rewilding efforts, and gives a glimpse of what it was like to have a film made about her life. She reveals how she became the CEO of Patagonia, and paints a moving picture of life in Chile. Kris and Melissa also explore the concept of nature-based tourism, the power of traveling to national parks for both the individual and the world, and the motivations for moving forward during harsh times. In this raw, informative and inspiring interview, Kris reminds us all of why we have an underlying longing for something wild. Tune in to learn the national parks she recommends visiting, discover her favorite outdoor activities, and listen to her advice for leading an extraordinary life. Melissa also shares a round-up of the top hotels Indagare members are booking in 2023.
For more information about Kristine Tompkins and her philanthropy work with Tompkins Conservation, visit www.tompkinsconservation.org. To follow Kris, her conservation efforts, and the latest adventures of the wild, check out @kristine_tompkins and @tompkins_conservation on Instagram. Wild Life, the National Geographic documentary starring Kris and Doug Tompkins, is available to stream on Huluand Disney+. To explore all Patagonia has to offer, check out our destination guides on Indagare.com. If you’re an Indagare member, reach out to your trip designer for more details.
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Frances Mayes is the New York Times Bestselling Author of Under the Tuscan Sun, which was turned into the beloved romantic movie starring Diane Lane in 2003. As the film just celebrated its 20th anniversary, Frances joins Melissa to talk about how her love for Italy transformed her own life while also capturing the attention of women ready to make a change around the world. Plus, with her newly released book, A Place in the World: Finding the Meaning of Home, she explores the mysterious concept of home and what it encompasses, from the homes we build to the countries we visit. She explains how “the house protects the dreamer” and the value of a home in magnifying creativity.
In the episode, Frances also shares the story of how Under the Tuscan Sun was turned into a film through a serendipitous meeting with the director of The Talented Mr. Ripley, and the story behind how the iconic farmhouse Villa Bramasole became her home. She shares special insights into her life in Italy, as she's written countless memoirs and novels on the country. She discloses some of her favorite destinations and regions (including where to eat bread comparable to cake), and details how Italy differs from anywhere else in the world. They talk about the art of travel, beauty, the unexpected gifts of writing, and how to get under the skin of a place to really experience it. Plus- don’t miss Melissa’s latest intel from her trip to Rome as well as Frances’ favorite secret spots and cities to add to your list.
For more information about Frances Mayes and to view her book collection, guides, and events visit www.francesmayesbooks.com. To stay up to date with Frances and her travels and writing, follow her on Instagram @francesemayes. Frances’ newest release, A Place in the World: Finding the Meaning of Home, is available to purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Penguin Random House. Under the Tuscan Sun, the movie starring Diane Lane adapted from Frances’ memoir, is available to stream on Amazon Prime, Disney +, and Apple TV. For more on Italy and to explore Indagare’s favorite cities, hotels, and restaurants in the country, visit Indagare.com. If you’re an Indagare member, reach out to your trip designer to start planning your Italian getaway.
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Jochen Zeitz is a business leader, author, agent of change and the founder of Segera Retreat, the luxury lodge sitting on 50,000 acres in Laikipia, Kenya. At the young age of 30, he was appointed CEO of Puma where he turned the almost bankrupt brand into a global phenomenon. Years later, he followed his passion for art and conservation, and opened the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town (Zeitz MOCAA) and the award-winning luxury eco-lodge Segera Retreat. He also started the B Team with Sir Richard Branson bringing together entrepreneurs to create long-term, global impact. He currently serves as the President, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Harley Davidson, a reflection of his passion for extraordinary brands and motorcycle riding. He co-wrote The Manager and the Monk: A Discourse on Prayer, Profit, and Principles and lives with the belief that business is a vehicle for good. His list of accomplishments is long, but his humility remains. It’s easy to see why he was listed by Conde Nast Traveler in 2019 as one of “The 44 People Changing the Way We Travel”.
In this episode, Jochen shares his multifaceted journey of transforming iconic brands into models of change. Through a life that defies conventional boundaries, he explains how tourism can serve as a conservation model and how he turned his vision of Segera into reality (it took 13 years for him to find a location that felt like home). He also reveals the fascinating story behind building a contemporary art museum in South Africa and explores the initiatives of the Zeitz Foundation, including the creation of an all-female ranger’s unit dedicated to protecting endangered rhinos. Listening to Jochen is inspiring as he reminds us of the power of tourism to change lives, and he instills hope through rewilding projects.
Plus- in Indagare Insights this week, Melissa will share details from our latest Indagare Sentiment Survey where we pulsed in with our Indagare community of travelers and collected their feedback and attitude on travel today, as well as her safari packing tips.
For more information about Jochen Zeitz and the conservation work of the ZEITZ foundation, visit zeitzfoundation.org.
To learn more about the Kenyan wildlife refuge at Segera Conservancy, the all-female ranger unit protecting rhinos, and what to expect during a stay at Segera, visit www.segera.com.
For more information about the B Team and to view its mission, history and leaders, visit https://bteam.org.
To explore the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) and its exhibitions in Cape Town, South Africa visit www.zeitzmocaa.museum.
For more information about The Long Run and its environmental initiatives around the world, visit www.thelongrun.org.
Jochen’s book with Anselm Grün, The Manager and the Monk: A Discourse on Prayer, Profit, and Principles, is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and AbeBooks.
For more packing lists and our insider guide to Kenya, visit Indagare.com and be sure to check out our Indagare review of Segera Retreat. If you’re already an Indagare member, reach out to your trip designer to start planning your next safari.
For a deeper dive into the current travel trends shared by Melissa in today’s episode, view the findings in our Indagare Sentiment Survey. -
New York Times Bestselling Author Anna Kloots joins Melissa to talk about her new memoir, My Own Magic: A Reappearing Act, which details her travels around the world entwined in a coming of age story. After her marriage ended at the age of 30, Anna decided to fulfill her lifelong dream and move to Paris. In this heartfelt episode, she shares her journey with Melissa and explores why travel serves as a vehicle for finding confidence and rediscovering the magic within. Anna also shares what living in the “real Paris” is like, including a very romantic love story with her neighbor…yes, it is even better than Emily in Paris, as well as the challenges she faced moving during the height of the pandemic while losing her brother-in-law to Covid-19. She reminds us all through her daring, adventurous story that failure creates growth and that our dreams are always within reach.
Anna has traveled to over 83 countries across six continents and has been featured in Travel & Leisure, The Los Angeles Times, Coastal Living and more. From Joshua Tree, Bali and, of course, Paris - in this episode, Anna also gives a glimpse at what makes these places so transformative and special. Plus- don’t miss Anna’s personal, insider recommendations for some of her favorite restaurants, small museums, bakeries and shops in Paris.For more information about Anna Kloots, to stay up-to-date with her book events, read about her travels, and purchase her city guides including “Paris Comme Moi,” head to www.annakloots.com. To check out Anna’s travel & lifestyle content, follow her on Instagram @annakloots.
Anna’s book, My Own Magic: A Reappearing Act, is available for purchase at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books-A-Million, and BookShop.
For more details about Paris along with other destination spotlights, visit Indagare.com to sign up for our newsletter and learn more about our membership. If you’re an Indagare member, reach out to your trip designer to begin planning your Parisian adventure. -
Bestselling author and hospitality entrepreneur Chip Conley founded the Modern Elder Academy to change the way we think about aging and happiness, and to help people navigate through midlife. The Modern Elder Academy (MEA) has gained international attention for its campus in Baja attracting midlife seekers from around the world with guest teachers like Richard Rhor, Michael Franti and Pico Iyer. Chip’s goal is to help others reimagine their lives and discover how to work through transitions, cultivate purpose and own wisdom through experiential curriculums, workshops and wellness retreats. MEA is opening a Santa Fe campus next March.
Chip previously served as Airbnb’s Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy where he was given the title “Modern Elder” for being someone who is as curious as he is wise. From studying the Gross National Happiness in Bhutan to going on a listening tour to 16 countries while at Airbnb, Chip has led a life of discovery. In today’s episode, he details his fascinating journey from starting Joie de Vivre Hospitality at only 25-years-old to helping Airbnb go from a start-up to a billion dollar valuation. As a philosopher, writer and psychologist; he shares his secrets with Melissa for running a successful company. He also reveals the insights he’s discovered on aging through decades of experience and gives a sneak peak at his 7th book, Learning to Love MidLife: 12 Reasons Why Life Gets Better with Age, coming out next year. Plus Melissa and Chip talk about the upcoming Indagare Journey at MEA’s private beachside enclave in Baja, California taking place next November. To learn more about the Insider Journey, click here.For more information about Chip Conley and his work on navigating midlife visit www.chipconley.com and follow him on Instagram @chipconley. To learn more about Modern Elder Academy, the workshops, and retreats visit www.modernelderacademy.com and follow MEA Instagram @modernelder.
To pre-order Chip’s newest book Learning to Love Midlife: 12 Reasons Why Life Gets Better with Age, launching January 2024, check out Amazon, BookShop, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, or Porchlight.
For what to expect on the Indagare Insider Journeys trip Finding Your Flow in Midlife and Beyond at the MEA Campus in Baja, California, click here.
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Dian Fossey was an American conservationist and primatologist known for her work studying endangered mountain gorillas in the forests of Rwanda, where she worked from 1966 until her murder in 1985. Dian’s book, Gorillas in the Mist, which was published two years before her death, chronicles her scientific work. It was later adapted into an Academy Award-nominated film starring Sigourney Weaver, which turned Dian Fossey into a household name.
To this day, Dian’s legacy continues, carried out by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and its remarkable CEO Dr. Tara Stoinski. The Fund itself raises money for conservation, brings awareness, and provides protection to gorillas and our planet’s ecosystem while empowering communities to do the same.
The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund—its new, multi-acre, eco-friendly facility—is located adjacent to Volcanoes National Park, situated along the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a hub for scientific research and ecological preservation, where students and researchers are given the tools to better understand individual gorillas, who share 98 percent of our DNA. The campus has an exhibit available for public viewing, which is a must-do when in Volcanoes, and private, behind-the-scenes tours can also be arranged.
Tara’s held a fascination for animals from a young age, and for over two decades has been at the forefront of gorilla conservation. Initially as a scientist and, for nearly a decade, as the CEO of the Dian Fossey Fund. In this episode, she discusses the challenges of gorilla conservation, how special it is to experience seeing the primates firsthand, and the evolution of the fund.
Plus, Melissa is joined by Indagare Productions Director, Kathryn Nathanson to share what you need to know before your gorilla trek. Listen for valuable planning tips, what to expect through the trek, and what to wear.
For more information about The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, visit gorillafund.org where you can make a donation, adopt a gorilla, take the gorilla personality test, and view details about the organization’s mission and what to expect on a site visit to its newest facility, The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. For the latest updates and fascinating gorilla facts, be sure to follow The Dian Fossey Fund on Instagram @savinggorillas.
For more details on planning a gorilla trek and for the latest news and travel tips, visit Indagare.com where you can also sign up for our newsletter and learn more about our membership. And, if you’re an Indagare member, reach out to your trip designer to start planning your journey to Rwanda. -
Twin Farms is as legendary as it gets on the American hotel circuit. Located in picturesque Barnard, VT, just 1.5 hours from Burlington and 20 minutes from the charming village of Woodstock, this landmark hotel sits on 300 acres of pristine Vermont land. The hotel is intimate and historic with a sense of place few hotels in the U.S. have managed to capture. In fact, the Main House itself is an 18th century farmhouse purchased by writer Sinclair Lewis and famed journalist Dorothy Thompson in the 1930s (turned into a hotel in 1993).
To tell the story of this iconic place John Graham, longtime Managing Director, joins Melissa. The two will speak about the hotel's museum worthy art collection, its incredible culinary program, the activities and experiences one can do on and off property, and the legendary figures who have shaped the history of the hotel. And - just in time for the hotel’s 30th anniversary - Twin Farms is launching eight spectacular and serene Treehouses, the newest accommodation on property bringing the total room count from 20 to 28 (the first two launch on September 14th and the next six will follow through the fall). John will share details of these new beautiful new rooms and speak to the evolution of the hotel.
In case you want more of Twin Farms - Join Indagare as we celebrate the hotel’s 30th anniversary with a special video series, we’ll share a first look of the Treehouses and will be launching an interactive 3-part culinary series in the coming months. The video series will kick off with our live virtual conversation, Why Go Now: Vermont with John Graham on September 28th at 1pm EST. For more information and to sign up, visit www.Indagare.com.For more information about Twin Farms, to reserve your stay, and to view the on-and-off property activities, visit www.twinfarms.com.
To follow Twin Farms and its adventures, check out the hotel on Instagram @twinfarms and Facebook www.facebook.com/twinfarms.
The upcoming Indagare and Twin Farm’s virtual video series celebrating the hotel’s 30th anniversary begins on September 28th at 1pm EST with the conversation, Why Go Now: Vermont with John Graham. Sign up online at www.Indagare.com. -
Dr. Frank Lipman is an author, doctor and pioneer in the field of Functional Medicine. He’s written numerous bestsellers covering sleep, mindfulness and healthy habits including How to Be Well: The 6 Keys to a Happy and Healthy Life and The New Rules of Aging Well. He’s been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, Women’s Health and appeared on Today, The Dr. Oz Show, and more. In today’s episode, he shares his expertise for healthy living and reveals simple tools you can use both at home and while traveling. Tune in to learn why the gut is referred to as the second brain, techniques for improving anxiety and depression and discover why he’s a fan of saunas, cold plunges and intermittent fasting. He also shares the supplements he recommends for brain health (including what he puts in his daily coffee), the science behind peptides, and what to look for if considering using therapeutics. Plus- Melissa and Dr. Lipman will look at wellness trends, techniques and ways of life around the world; they’ll dive into what we can learn from the slow pace of life in Italy, Ubuntu in South Africa, and the future of wellness in travel.
Melissa ends the episode with a round-up of practical, simple tips from Dr. Lipman for living healthier, happier and more connected lives.For more tips on healthy living and aging well from Dr. Frank Lipman, head to drfranklipman.com or check out his books How To Be Well: The 6 Keys to a Happy and Healthy Life andThe New Rules of Aging Well.
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Jim Manley is the founder of the world’s first-ever Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Ranch, the Ranch at Rock Creek, located in one of Montana’s most spectacular valleys. At 10 years old, he told his father, “When I’m older, I’m going to get a horse, a rifle, and a ranch.” Forty-three years later following a successful career in finance, his childhood dream came true. After looking at hundreds of ranches, he finally settled on a property between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park surrounded by white-capped mountains, green meadows and pristine valleys. Yet just after one year, Jim realized his plans for owning a private ranch were destined for something much greater.
In today’s episode, Jim details his journey in creating the Ranch at Rock Creek, and how he combined the spirit of the west with exceptional luxury service. He shares his vision in creating a place for rugged adventure that also feels like home. Melissa and Jim also explore America’s obsession with the idealism of the western frontier, and why man’s desire for wide open spaces is a part of the country’s identity. Plus - he uncovers the misconceptions about Big Sky Country, shares some of his favorite ranch activities and reveals how an all inclusive philosophy and no vehicle policy changed the guest experience.
Melissa ends the episode with a travel hack on the new ETIAS requirement for American travelers heading to Europe in 2024. She breaks down what you need to know, how much it costs and how it will affect your travel plans.To learn more about The Ranch at Rock Creek or to make your reservations, visit www.theranchatrockcreek.com.
To follow along the adventures on the property, check out: Instagram @theranchatrockcreek, TikTok @ranchatrockcreek, and Facebook at facebook.com/theranchatrockcreek.
Updates about ETIAS can be found on the official ETIAS website at www.etias.com , travel-europe.europa.eu or through Indagare’s newsletter, available for subscription at www.Indagare.com.
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Luke Russert is an Emmy-award winning journalist who left his career covering American politics on NBC Nightly News, TODAY, and MSNBC to travel the world. After the death of his father, the legendary journalist Tim Russert, Luke set out on a three month trip that turned into three years as he traveled to six continents covering 67 countries. He journaled every step of the way, and it was only upon returning — in his grandmother’s kitchen in San Francisco — that he realized his journey was much greater than his trip. He turned his journal entries into a NY Times Bestseller, Look for Me There, which details how travel helped him process his grief and ultimately led to self-discovery.
Through beautiful storytelling, Luke shares the greatest lessons he learned on his adventure around the world. From profound moments of awe in New Zealand to his travels in the birthplace of wine in Tbilisi, Georgia to the best meal he (and Melissa) have ever eaten in Uruguay; Luke shares a deeply personal, internal journey and reminds us of the power in travel.
For highlights of Luke’s travel advice and more information on where to find his book, Look for Me There, see below:
Luke’s Travel Takeaways
Don’t wait to travel because you may be able to participate in certain activities now that could become more challenging later in life due to health and physical limitations.Be curious and think critically about how new environments differ from your own.The more you travel and push yourself outside your comfort zone, the more comfortable you will become in uncertainty. This gives you the ability to explore any uneasy thoughts with more clarity. Build moments around the day to give yourself downtime, whether it’s unwinding in your hotel room or enjoying leisure time in a cafe.Ensure that everyone is on board with the daily activities planned. Be mindful that what you desire may not be what your travel companion desires.Embrace spontaneity while traveling as schedules can change while on the road. Having the ability to adapt to the changes will make your trip more enjoyable.Ultize travel as a way to decompress from the constant hour-by-hour, minute-by-minute-mindset. This time will allow you to process deeper emotions.To read more about Luke’s road to self-discovery, check out his NY Times Bestseller book, Look for Me There available on Bookshop, HarperCollins, and Amazon.
To follow along Luke’s journey, check out his Instagram @lukerussert.
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Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur Liz Lange revolutionized maternity fashion in the 1990s when she founded Liz Lange Maternity. She’s now the CEO and Creative Director of Figue, a women’s luxury label, where she’s working to breathe new life into the lifestyle brand, which describes itself as having a ‘global nomad-meets-jet-set’ spirit. In today’s episode, Liz shares her journey – from changing the mindset around maternity clothing to her work transforming Figue. She reveals fascinating stories about her high-profile family (which is further detailed in her true crimes podcast, Just Enough Family), including her early travels in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. She explores the relationship between fashion and travel and shares her favorite shops around the world from Paris and Milan to Tokyo. Plus, Melissa and Liz discuss her iconic and historic home, Grey Gardens, in the Hamptons and how she remodeled it alongside renowned Interior Designer, Jonathan Adler, who is also her dear friend.
To learn more about Liz Lange, Figue, and the shops mentioned in today’s episode, click the links below:
Figue is the fashion brand acquired and relaunched by Liz Lange in 2021. The line features bohemian-influenced clothing, handbags, footwear, accessories, and home design.
Grey Gardens is the iconic East Hampton house purchased and restored by Liz in 2017, and decorated alongside Johnathan Adler; the home and its history are featured in the 1975 documentary Grey Gardens. You can read more about this property in Veranda here.
Boutique stores recommended by Liz in the episode:
Tokyo, Japan
ShipsParis, France
CrimsonLa Tuile à LoupTalmarisDiorLVMHMilan, Italy
Arjumand's World Ginori 1735For more on Liz go to @lizlangeofficial on Instagram.
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Catharina Hedberg is the co-founder of the legendary Ashram, a boot camp retreat, nestled in the Santa Monica hills of Calabasas. Originally from Sweden, Cat and her business partner (the late Anne-Marie Bennstrom) opened The Ashram in 1974 decades before the boot camp concept became popular. Almost 50 years later, it continues to book out months in advance, welcoming both new visitors and return guests. Cat has created an environment for nurturing the mind, body and soul through yoga, hiking, farm-to-table community meals and simplicity.
In today’s episode, Cat shares her philosophy with Melissa. She discusses how her childhood influenced her approach, the necessity of nature and how she strives to meet the needs of every individual who stays at the Ashram. She also discusses the latest weight loss fad: ozempic and shares her thoughts on the drug. With contagious joy and enthusiasm, she dives into the exciting future of wellness tourism. She reveals how the Ashram continues to expand around the world with retreats in Mallorca, Iceland, the Camino de Santiago and Japan.
To learn more about The Ashram and the wellness practices discussed in today’s episode, see below:
Activities at The Ashram include hiking, yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, massages, gym sessions, pool volleyball, spending time in nature and more.
Guests can enjoy mindful meals, incorporating farm-to-table cuisine, whole foods, and vegetarian ingredients.
The Ashram hosts seasonal retreats to Mallorca, Iceland, and the Camino de Santiago.
To honor The Ashram’s 50th anniversary, journeys will be offered to the Camino de Santiago along the Portuguese route, as well as to Kumano Kodō, a Japanese pilgrimage.
If you’re looking to try some of The Ashram’s recipes, keep an eye out for the restock of The Ashram’s cookbook: The Ashram: The Way We Eat.
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Michael Smith is one of the leading interior designers and decorators of our time. Honored as an AD Hall of Famer and Elle Decor’s Designer of the Year in 2003, he’s done apartments and homes for the likes of Shonda Rhimes, Cindy Crawford, and even the Obamas during their White House tenure. Each project he works on is deeply thoughtful and also unique. His career has taken him all over the world, with one of his most interesting projects being his redesign of the U.S. embassy residence in Madrid.
Michael’s move to Madrid with his partner, the former U.S. Ambassador to Spain, James Costos began a lifelong love affair with the country. He now has an apartment in Madrid and a home in Mallorca. In today’s conversation, he talks about how he uses interior design to create cultural dialogue and immersive, impactful experiences. He tells stories from his dream-like career, and explains how his job fuses his love for architecture, history, textiles and contemporary art. He also shares his passion for the Spanish capital as he reveals what’s so uniquely special about the lively, elegant city. And don’t miss his idea of a perfect day in Madrid - from breakfast in Retiro Park to the cafe where he took the Obamas and his favorite museums.
Melissa ends the episode with some of her personal recommendations for Madrid, including top hotels, where to buy the coveted espadrilles and some of her top picks for restaurants.For more information about Madrid and the hotels, museums, parks, restaurants, and shops mentioned in today’s episode, click the links below:
Hotels
Mandarin Oriental RitzFour SeasonsSanta MauroRosewood Villa MagnaMuseums
Museo del PradoMuseo Reina SofíaMuseo ThyssenMuseo SorollaMuseo de Arte ContemporáneoParks
Retiro ParkTemple of DebodFlamenco Dancing
Corral de la MoreríaTablao Las CarbonerasRestaurants
Breakfast or Lunch For Pincho de TortillaFor PaellaRooftopDinnerDrinksShopping
CarminaSesañaCocolPezAntigua Casa CrespoCasa Hernanz Entredós Antiques El Rastro MarketShopping for Food
Mercado San MiguelFormaje -
“Travel brings out the best version of ourselves, it’s a version that’s very curious and open-minded and open-hearted. And having your children being able to see you in that mode, and you being able to see them… is a very powerful thing,” Eliza Harris shares in this week’s episode on family travel.
Indagare Editorial Director Annie Fitzsimmons and COO Eliza Harris join Melissa this week on Passport to Everywhere to explore the joys, magic, challenges, pains and practicalities of traveling with family. Annie has a four-year old daughter (who has already traveled to three continents), and Eliza has three sons ranging from high school to college who have traveled the world with her, and during this episode the Indagare trio shares some of their favorite hotels, must-have airplane essentials, destinations ideal for various ages, and questions to consider before planning a trip. They also exchange their own favorite family travel stories - from moments with the Masaai in Tanzania to seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time through a child’s eyes - and discuss how these trips have transformed each of their lives.
See below for more information on the family travel tips mentioned in today’s episode:
What to take into account when planning a family trip:
AgesSchedulesPreferencesGoalsStamina for activitiesTime zones and jet lagLength of your stayHow often you’re changing hotelsHow independent your kids areEvents and sporting activitiesCultural differencesTime of day you plan activitiesInvolving your kids in the planning processKid-Friendly Hotels:
Four SeasonsBelmondMarbella Club HotelMärchenhotel BraunwaldVictoria-JungfrauDisney
Keep an eye out for Annie Fitzsimmons’ book with National Geographic and Disney Publishing: 100 Hotels of a Lifetime which releases in 2024. -
Sleep Scientist and the co-author of Sleep for Success, Dr. Rebecca Robbins, has dedicated her life to researching sleep. She’s a frequent guest on TV shows such as The Today Show and CBS This Morning and has been featured in the New York Times, Financial Times, and Readers’ Digest. She worked as a “Sleep Consultant” for the Benjamin Hotel in New York, where she implemented a pillow menu and power nap kit for guests, and she also partners with the hotel brand Sonesta to offer guests a variety of ways to improve their sleep.
Together with Melissa, Dr. Robbins dives into the science behind sleep and reveals her fascinating research findings. She shares applicable techniques for improving sleep both at home and while traveling, and explains various methods to evade the dreaded jet lag. Melissa and Dr. Robbins also explore the exciting future of sleep tourism, as well as how we can learn better sleep practices from other cultures (including her experience with hygge in Scandinavia).
Melissa ends the episode with her personal tips for mastering jet lag after decades of international travel and long flights.
See below for a few highlights on sleep tips from today’s episode:
Create the ideal sleep environment:
Use blackout curtains to keep light out (move away from light sources before bed time)Use an eye mask and ear plugsInvest in your mattress, pillow (choosing the right type based on if you sleep on your side, back or stomach), and beddingWear breathable fabricsTools/Gadgets to help you sleep:
Apps: NuCalm and CalmListen: natural sounds such as pink noise and brown noise (the sound of rainfall is popular) can help you fall asleep Trackers: Invest in an Oura Ring to track and help better understand your sleep patternsPrepare for travel:
Two weeks before your trip, start to shift your wake and your sleep times in small increments of 15 minutes in the direction of your new time zoneA few days before departure, begin shifting your meal schedule to align closer to the times you will eat at your destinationOpt for traveling during the day as taking a red-eye will be harder to recover fromOn arrival in your destination:
Expose yourself to as much natural sunlight as possible so your melatonin levels can adjust to the new time zoneExercise outside, even for 20 minutes, to oxygenate and increase your energy levels Resist napping for over an hour as longer naps will only disrupt your body clock furtherIf helpful, take a supplement before bed on the first night, i.e. timed-release melatoninIf you’re interested in the sleep retreats mentioned today, check out Sonesta and Castle Hot Springs.
To find out more about Rebecca’s sleep research, check out her book, Sleep for Success! available on Amazon, Target, and Barnes & Noble.
For ore information on Rebecca and her work, follow her on Instagram and Threads @DrRebeccaRobbins, Twitter @RebeccaSRobbins, and on her website www.rebecca-robbins.com.
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The Camino de Santiago, also known as ‘The Way of Saint James’, has welcomed Christian pilgrims, or peregrinos, for thousands of years. Its path across northwestern Spain to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela remains one of the most popular pilgrimages for people from all over the world, seeing spiritual seekers, adventurers, everyday travelers and more.
In this episode, actor, travel writer, author and director Andrew McCarthy joins Melissa to talk about his new book Walking with Sam: A Father, A Son and 500 Miles across Spain which details his second journey on the Camino. McCarthy shares his raw account of how the 500 mile trek transformed his life, and details the so-called gifts he received through miles of walking. He speaks about his fascinating career path –– from ‘Brat Pack’ actor to award-winning travel writer, including a job as the editor-at-large at National Geographic Traveler, and he and Melissa dive into the best ways to forge connections as travelers (hint: let go of expectations, and leave your phone at the hotel).
Melissa ends the episode with her personal takeaways from her own trek on the Camino as part of an Indagare Insider Journey (small, group trip). And in case you’re inspired to join Indagare for our return to the Camino on a future Insider Journey, you can find further details on the itinerary and sign up here.If you want more information about Andrew McCarthy and walking the Camino de Santiago, click the links below:
Camino de Santiago or “The Way of St. James” is the world famous 500 mile trek located in northwest Spain that was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.
If you want to learn more about Andrew McCarthy’s experience walking the Camino, check out his website www.andrewmccarthy.com and his latest book - Walking with Sam: A Father, a Son, and Five Hundred Miles Across Spain - which is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Indiebound.
Tips and helpful notes for walking the Camino de Santiago:
There are seven paths to choose from when walking the Camino de Santiago:The French Way, the Portuguese Way, the Northern Way, the Original Way, the Silver Way, the English Way, and the Camino FinisterreThe most popular route departs from Saint Jean Pied de Port in the Pyrenees mountains (in France) and arrives in Santiago de Compostela; this is the French way All Camino paths lead to Santiago de Compostela which is the final destination of the trekPeople of all ages and fitness levels can walkRemember to pack lightly and comfortablyTry walking alone part of the way for a heightened personal experienceBreak your shoes in before the trip, whether they are hiking boots, trail running shoes, or well-cushioned sneakersWear wool socks for extra comfort and apply Foot Glide or Vaseline to prevent blistersTake time to view the churches, cemeteries, and cathedrals along the way including one in Pontevedra that is particularly well known Stop in the Cathedral Santiago de Compostela for the Pilgrim's MassTravelers have the opportunity to receive a Compostela certificate, a document verifying the journey that is awarded for completion. To do so, you must walk the last 100km and get at least two stamps per day in your booklet, called the Credencial del Peregrino.To watch before you walk:
Walking the Camino: Six Ways to SantiagoTo read before you walk:
Off the Road by Jack Hitt *This book inspired Andrew McCarthy’s first walkIf you’re interested in walking part of the Camino de Santiago, join an Indagare Insider Journey (small, group trip) this fall or next spring. To learn more, reach out to [email protected] and visit our website: http://www.indagare.com/insiderjourneys/.
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