Episodes

  • Episode #24 - Where Else to Go: Perth, Western Australia

    Episode #24 - Where Else to Go: Perth, Western Australia

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to the Where Else to Go podcast where we talk about where to go - and where else to go - whether that's across town or around the world.

    This week's episode features Erin Bender talking about her hometown of Perth, the capital and largest city of the Australian state of Western Australia. While Erin and her family spend most of their lives on the road, they've been traveling non-stop for over four years, she was quite willing to dish about home. She says:

    Perth is a place no one visits in Australia on the West Coast. And the place people don’t even realize that they are missing. White beaches, some of the most beautiful wildlife in the world and home to some of the best wine in Australia.

    Take a listen and learn why Erin thinks Perth is so special.

    Erin Bender has been traveling the world with her family since May 2012. It's an open-ended, unplanned, round-the-world trip discovering amazing places for families. They have stayed in hostels and 5-star luxury resorts, traveled on scooters and cruise liners, danced with leprechauns and abseiled cliffs. Her children have been singled out by Forbes as the some of the World’s Most Well Travelled Kids. The kids enjoy travel as much as Erin and her husband, Josh, and don’t want to stop.

    You can follow the adventures of the Benders at Travel with Bender. Connect with her on social: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Google+, and LinkedIn. You might also enjoy their YouTube channel.

    Thanks for joining us. If you want to make sure you get every episode of the podcast, you can subscribe via iTunes or Google Play. The biggest way you can help support this podcast is to subscribe, followed by leaving a rating and review. I'm still very new to the podcasting platform and appreciate your support.

    Please come back next week to join us talking about where to go. . . and where else to go, whether that’s across town or around the world. And hey, take a minute and leave a comment below about where else you want to go.

  • Episode #23 - Where Else to Go: Iceland in the Off Season

    Episode #23 - Where Else to Go: Iceland in the Off Season

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to Episode #23 of the Where Else to Go podcast. This week we're talking with Katie Hammel about visiting Iceland in the off season.

    If you've perused any travel media lately, you know that Iceland is hot, hot, hot. But Katie gives us some suggestions from traveling to Iceland when it's down right cold.

    Here's what she says:

    Iceland's tourism is exploding, but most people still visit in the summer high season. Go in March or April or September or October and you'll see fewer people. Go from November to February and it's even better. You'll have to take some precautions, bring the right gear, and limit where you go (as some places around the country are just inaccessible in the winter) but you can still do plenty of amazing things in the winter, and you'll encounter fewer crowds and pay lower prices. You can still go horseback riding, glacier climbing, caving, snorkeling, whale watching, ride in a helicopter, or take a brewery tour, all on trips from the city. Plus you might get to see the Northern Lights--you can see them via boat or on a bus tour, go in search of them by yourself, or book a trip to go float in a hot spring. When they are particularly strong, you can even see them from the city.

    Take a listen and understand why Katie thinks Iceland is a perfect place to visit:

    Here's the driving trip, complete with routing details, that Katie recommends. She's added in many of the activities and locations that we talked about.

    Katie Hammel is a travel writer who has been published in the NY Daily News, San Francisco Chronicle, BBC Travel, and other publications. She lives in San Francisco. She's been to Iceland six times and considers it her favorite place in the world. You can read more from Katie here, as well as connect with her on social media on Twitter and Instagram. Although she is no longer working with Trip Creator, Katie still thinks you should check out what they have to offer travelers.

    Thanks for joining us. If you want to make sure you get every episode of the podcast, you can subscribe via iTunes or Google Play. Please come back next week to join us talking about where to go. . . and where else to go, whether that’s across town or around the world.

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  • Halloween Episode - Where Else to Go: Halloween Horror Nights, Orlando

    Halloween Episode - Where Else to Go: Halloween Horror Nights, Orlando

    · Where Else to Go

    Hello! Thanks for joining us for the special Halloween episode of the Where Else to Go podcast. Joining me today to talk about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando is Rick Howard.

    Rick began working in the travel industry for over 20 years now. Bitten by the travel bug at an early age, it seemed like a logical career path when he founded his first travel agency in 1996. In his role at Kingdom Magic Vacations he travels a lot, and in his role at Travel with Rick, he travels as well, but he also takes people with him virtually through the blog and social platforms. Rick has lived on and around the Florida Coast for over 30 years and makes frequent visits to the Disney Parks. You can follow Rick on his social platforms: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Disclosure: Rick and I are both members of Universal Orlando's Blog Squad, a group of travel experts who have been hired as ambassadors for the resort. While we do receive financial remuneration for our time, we both have a firm policy of only aligning ourselves with travel brands and experience that are right for our audiences, guaranteeing you that you get our honest opinion about what's worth your time and money.

    Now in its 26th year, Halloween Horror Nights include nine haunted houses (mazes), five scare zones (transitional areas with staging and characters), and two shows. Rick and I talk about the horror genre, the craft and creativity of the genre, and our experiences at HHN26. The event runs through November 5th, 2016. If you miss it this year, it's not too early to make plans for 2017.

    Take a listen.

    Some helpful links:

    Information about the houses, scare zones, and rides can be found here. Plan to attending using this calendar of times and hours. HHN26 will run through November 5th, 2017. There are a variety of ticket options available. Rick and I both recommending upgrading to the RIP Tour which provides you with front of line access and great backstory information about the houses. If you're coming from out of town, there are hotel and ticket packages that provide great value.

    Thanks for joining us. If you want to make sure you get every episode of the podcast, you can subscribe via iTunes or Google Play. Please come back next week to join us talking about where to go. . . and where else to go, whether that’s across town or around the world.

  • Episode #22 – Where Else to Go: Minho Region of Portugal

    Episode #22 – Where Else to Go: Minho Region of Portugal

    · Where Else to Go

    Hello, and thanks for joining us for Episode #22 of the Where Else to Go podcast. Today we're talking with Julie Fox about the Minho Region of Portugal.

    I first visited Portugal in 2011 for a very short period of time and was fortunate to go back again in 2015 for a much longer period. I came very close to the Minho Region, and if I'd only had this information then, I may have extended my time in the country to go a little farther inland.

    Minho is bordered by the River Douro to the south and the River Minho to the north, the latter also dividing it from Spain. It has a depth of Celtic influences and also shares a deep culture with Spain. It's known as one of Portugal's greenest and most traditional provinces, and after talking with Julie, it's hard to understand why so many travelers pass it by.

    Julie says:

    The Minho region in the north which includes the historical cities and towns of Braga, Guimarães, Ponte de Lima, Viana do Castelo and Caminha, are rich in history, architecture, gastronomy and culture, and the landscapes are spectacular. You've got everything - beaches, mountains, rivers, forests. If you really want me to pick one spot in this beautiful area, I'll go with Ponte de Lima, although it's probably the hardest to get to without a car. Each of them has something special to offer the luxury traveler.

    Take a listen.

    Some helpful links:

    Portugal Geen Walks is a tour operator that specializes in the Minho and other parts of northern Portugal (walks, nature, gastronomy, architecture, culture etc). Find reviews and more info here. Carmo's Boutique Hotel. Find information, reviews, and booking info here. There are several Pousadas in the region including one behind the hilltop basilica in Viana do Castelo, one inside the fortress in Valença and another in a former convent above Guimarães. Find information and stories that Julie has written about Minho here.

    Julie first visited Portugal in 2007 and swiftly fell in love with the country. As well as authoring her own book, Money Saving Tips For Travel in Portugal, she is a contributor to Dorling Kindersley Eyewitness Travel Guides to Portugal, Lisbon, and Europe, Travel 42 Guides, The Huffington Post, CNN and AFAR. She helps others discover the beauty and culture of Portugal and plan their own trips by providing information, inspiration, and tips for living and traveling in Portugal through her popular blog, Julie Dawn Fox in Portugal.

    You can follow Julie on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, Instagram, and YouTube.

    Thanks for joining us. If you want to make sure you get every episode of the podcast, you can subscribe via iTunes or Google Play. Please come back next week to join us talking about where to go. . . and where else to go, whether that's across town or around the world.

  • Episdoe #21 - Where Else to Go: Namwon, South Korea

    Episdoe #21 - Where Else to Go: Namwon, South Korea

    · Where Else to Go

    Hello! Thanks for joining us for Episode #21 of the Where Else to Go Podcast. Today we'll be talking with Samantha about Namwon, South Korea. Samantha is a travel blogger and is currently teaching ESL in Namwon. She fell in love with the area and wants us to as well.

    Namwon is about a two hour KTX train ride from Seoul, or a three to four-hour bus ride, depending on traffic. It's an hour from Jeonju, which is rising on the Korean travel lists for its traditional housing (Hanoks). Samantha says that Namwon is a lovely walkable city, but that too many people don't know it exists.

    For anyone interested in traditional Korean culture, Namwon is the setting for one of Korea's most famous love stories, Chunhyangjeon. (Think of it as Korea's Romeo and Juliet minus the tragic ending.) There's a beautiful park you can wander around called Gwanghallu that has the story laid out, and you can also go to an amusement park based around Chunhyang.

    If you're interested in nature, Namwon is also one of the cities based around Jiri Mountain (Jirisan), one of Korea's three most important mountains along with Hallasan and Seoraksan. There are a bunch of trails of varying degrees of difficulty, and one notable short one that gives you a beautiful view of the city. If you come in autumn, you'll get rows of fall foliage, and if you come in early spring, you might just catch all the cherry blossoms lining the main river.

    If you like food, Namwon is also located in Jeollabuk province. The Jeolla provinces are considered the food provinces of Korea, so if you want good Korean food, it's here.

    Samantha offers the following details (and links) for getting to Namwon:

    English Hotline Help Take the KTX Train (about two hours) from the Yongsan Station in Seoul to the Namwon Station. Be sure to look for the KTX train as other will take you about twice the time. To take the bus to Namwon, head to the Express Bus Terminal on the Seoul subway. They have self-serve kiosks that include English. The bus takes three to four hours, depending on traffic, and takes a 15-minute rest stop break about halfway through the journey. There are two types of buses, one that has two seats on each side of the aisle (the cheapest) and one that has two seats on one side of the aisle, one on the other (will cost a little more for that extra room). Upon arrival in Namwon, take a taxi to your hotel, nothing should cost more than 5,000 KRW (about $5).

    Suggestions on Where to Stay

    Kensington Yechon - Offering traditional style accommodation, you may not be able to find this option on booking sites and the home site is in Korean. Try calling the English Hotline (link above) for assistance with booking. For your taxi: 켕싱턴 예촌a Kensington Resort - The site is in Korean; you'll find booking information here. For your taxi: 켄싱턴 리졸트 The Suites Hotel - Located a little outside of the city, this is one of the nicest hotels in the area. The site is in Korean; you'll find booking information here.

    What to do is Namwon:

    Information about the hiking trails in Namwon (in English). Gwanghallu Garden - About 2,500 KRW ($2.50) admission fee. More info here. Chunhyang Story - Read about this romantic legend here. Learn about Chunhyang Theme Park here.

    Samantha is a travel blogger at There She Goes Again and is finishing up her teaching contract in Namwon, South Korea, after which she'll spend time traveling to Jeju and Seoul for a few weeks before flying home to the U. S. You can follow her on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

    Thanks for joining us. If you want to make sure you get every episode of the podcast, you can subscribe via iTunes or Google Play. Please come back next week when we'll be talking about where else to go, whether that's across town or around the world.

  • Episode #20 - Where Else to Go: Caribbean Coast of Colombia

    Episode #20 - Where Else to Go: Caribbean Coast of Colombia

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to episode #20 of the Where Else to Go Podcast. We're glad to have you with us for today's show which features Gemma Armit talking about where else to go - the Caribbean Coast of Colombia.

    Gemma is a teacher of politics and current affairs in Scotland and is also a travel blogger at Two Scots Abroad. Gemma and her husband are just back from a 17-month career break during which they traveled in the Americas and Europe. Although they've returned home, they're not giving up traveling, they'll just be doing it a little differently.

    Today Gemma talks about their adventures on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. They had been traveling for a couple of months in Peru and Bolivia and kept getting recommendations about going to Colombia. After time spent in the bigger cities, Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena, they ventured out to the coast. Once there, they found their hearts stolen by both the beaches and the towns of Santa Marta, Costeño, Tayrona National Park and also Minca, a tiny town tucked away in the Sierra Nevada mountains!

    You can find more information about places mentioned in links below.

    Santa Marta Costeno Beach Tayrona National Park Minca

    And some other helpful information about the rest of their time in Colombia.

    Salento Bogota Medellin Cartagena

    You can follow Gemma on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Google+, and YouTube. They have some exciting adventures shaping up as they hit the road in a different way.

    Thanks for listening! Remember, you can also find and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, and while you’re there, please take a minute and leave us a rating and review. You can also subscribe to the podcast on Google Play.

  • Episode 19 - Where Else to Go: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

    Episode 19 - Where Else to Go: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to the Where Else to Go podcast. I'm so glad to have you join us for Episode #19 featuring Kimberly Erin Davies talking about where else to go – San Pedro de Atacama in Chile.

    Kimmie grew up being taught that travel is education in a less formal environment, and has since been doing her best to practice this belief. She now works as a travel blogger, traveling the Americas, writing and inspiring others to push the boundaries of travel. She is an adventurer and loves to climb mountains, take multi-day treks, surf, scuba dive, and paraglide.

    Kimmie was passing through Chile for a short visit on her way to Easter Island, but fell in love with it and ended up moving to the north part of the country and a town called San Pedro de Atacama. San Pedro is a sleepy little town with a relaxed kind of hippie vibe. It is an open, free, be yourself type of destination, with wonderful restaurants, and some of the best scenery you could dream of. You will never run out of things to do in surreal San Pedro de Atacama, from volcanoes to hot springs, to world class star gazing and sand boarding on ‘the moon’, you will never be bored.

    Even though she has now moved back home to Canada, Kimmie makes return visits regularly, sharing her love of San Pedro with family and friends

    Some of the things that Kimmie recommends:

    Restaurants:

    Las Delicias del Carmen - A traditional restaurant, you can read a review here. Barros Cafe - For live music at night and a great daily menu, read a review here. Adobe- Go for dinner, read a review here. Blanco - For upscale dining, read a review here. La Casona - Kimmie's personal favorite, read a review here. Hotels: Terrantai (review here) Tierra Atacama for a luxury experience (review here) Hotel San Pedro Suggested Tours: Valle de la Luna sunset tour Valle de la Muerte sand boarding El Tatio Geyser tour Stargazing Visit Termas Puritama Salt flats in San Pedro Floating in Laguna de Cejar (more salt than dead sea and mineral earth) Climbing Volcano Lascar Climbing Toco Hill Bike ride through Gargantua del Diablo You may also find these articles helpful: Climbing Volcano Lascar, which sits in the background off of San Pedro de Atacama, and is the most active volcano in South America. Things to do in Santiago, since it's likely that you'll be passing through here en route to San Pedro.

    You can read more about Kimmie's travels - to San Pedro and more - on her blog, Walk Aboot Travel. Follow her on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

  • Episode #18 - Where Else to Go: Benin

    Episode #18 - Where Else to Go: Benin

    · Where Else to Go

    Hello, and welcome to episode #18 of the Where Else to Go podcast. Whether you're looking to travel around the block or around the world, we're here to give you some inspiration to begin researching where to go. . . and where else to go.

    My guest today is Marysia Maciocha, an ex-lawyer from Poland, who describes herself as a crazy Polish girl traveling around the globe. She travels most of the time, with intermittent breaks for family events, and remains enthusiastic about the constant change of landscape, religion, mentalities, languages, and kitchens.

    Marysia and I talk about travel to Benin, a country in west Africa. Most tourism centers around Cotonou, the governmental seat, and even though French is the official language, Marysia says it is possible to get around relying only on English. Of course, she speaks six languages so it's easy for her to say that, but if you're willing to make a bit of effort with the language, you'll find Benin is an underrated destination full of interesting culture and history.

    Our conversation ranged from hotels and food to voodoo practices and the slave trade. Benin is full of things that you won't find just anywhere. Take a listen.

    You can find Marysia's stories about her travels on her blog, My Travel Affairs, and stories specifically about traveling in Benin here. You can also connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, and Instagram.

    Thanks for listening! Remember, you can also find the podcast on iTunes, and while you're there, please take a minute and leave us a rating and review. See you next week when we'll be talking about Where Else to Go. . . San Pedro de Atacama.

  • Episode #17 - Where Else to Go: Rwanda

    Episode #17 - Where Else to Go: Rwanda

    · Where Else to Go

    Rwanda is a small landlocked country just south of the equator in central and east Africa. The country is mountains in the west and savannah in the east, and although primarily an agricultural economy, tourism is becoming an important part of the economy.

    While many people only know about Rwanda for its horrible history of genocide, travel blogger Bret Love fell in love with it. He says:

    Rwanda. It's relatively off the beaten path for most American travelers, and there's a lot of amazing ecotourism attractions beyond following Dian Fossey's footsteps and trekking with gorillas in Volcanos National Park. A lot of people associate the country with the Civil War and genocide that ended in 1994. But President Paul Kagame has completely transformed the country over the past 22 years, with an impressive infrastructure, impeccably managed tourism industry, and some of the most beautiful landscapes we've ever seen.

    Bret Love is a journalist with 23 years of experience, whose freelance clients have ranged from the Atlanta Journal Constitution and Rolling Stone to National Geographic and Yahoo Travel. Along with his wife Mary Gabbett, he is the co-founder of Green Global Travel, an award-winning blog focused on ecotourism, nature/wildlife conservation & cultural preservation that hopes to inspire and inform people on ways to live and travel more sustainably. Bret and Mary also co-founded Green Travel Media, a content marketing agency, as well as a new Fair Trade e-commerce store that's opening on Earth Day 2016.

    You can follow all of Bret and Mary’s travels on Green Global Travel, where they’ve recently opened a shop focusing on items from their travels. I purchased a pillow cover from the shop and was very pleased with both the customer service and quality. Find them on social media at Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, and Instagram.

    Thanks for listening! Remember, you can also find the podcast on iTunes, and while you’re there, please take a minute and leave us a rating and review.

  • Episode #16 - Where Else to Go: Southern Brazil

    Episode #16 - Where Else to Go: Southern Brazil

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to the Where Else to Go podcast. Episode #16 features Elena Paschinger talking about where else to go - southern Brazil.

    Elena is a tourism management graduate from Austria turned travel writer, teacher, business consultant and public speaker. She became totally impassioned with meaningful, culturally authentic, and engaging travel experiences after spending one and a half years living and working in New Zealand. Tracking the exponential growth of creative travel around the world, she has actively participated in developing and promoting creative destinations through her international consulting business. Her most recent achievement includes moderating an international panel discussion on creative travel and community development for the UNWTO United Nations World Tourism Organization at the ITB International Travel Trade Show in Berlin.

    When most people think about visiting Brazil, they think about Rio or Sao Paulo, but Elena advises us to head south to the cities of Porto Alegre and Florianopolis. It's about a 1:40 flight from Sao Paulo to Porto Alegre, and the same from Buenos Aires as well. Once in Porto Alegre, you can reach Florianopolis by another flight or a five hour bus ride.

    Elena makes the following recommendations (click through the links for more information).

    Porto Alegre Creative Travel platform, including travel tips, workshop ideas & video material. Plaza Sao Rafael, a value luxury accommodation in Porto Alegre. This is where Elena did her dance & cooking demo. Learn about the dish carreteiro de charque, the stone workshp, and the photo walk around Porto Alegre here. Florianopolis restaurants are known for their excellent seafood, notably oysters, as well as for the daily camarao. Recommendations from Elena include: Rancho Acoriano, Barracuda Grill, Arante Restaurant at “Pântano do Sul” (at the very southern tip of the island city), and Fairyland Cupcakes. Market recommendation: Mercado Sao Jorge. The Majestic, a recommended value luxury hotel in Florianopolis Read more about Elena's experiences in Brazil and get additional recommendations here.

    Follow all of Elena's travels on her blog, Creative Elena. She has also written a book, The Creative Travelers Handbook. You can follow her on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, Instagram, and YouTube.

    Thanks for listening! Remember, you can also find the podcast on iTunes, and while you’re there, please take a minute and leave us a rating and review.

    See you next week when we'll be talking about where else to go - Rwanda.

    Photo credit: Some rights reserved by Gustavo Facci

  • Episode #15 - Where Else to Go: Israel

    Episode #15 - Where Else to Go: Israel

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome back to the Where Else to Go podcast. We took a brief two week hiatus, allowing some time to update our site and take care of other technology related matters.

    We're back this week with a practical look at a country that has always fascinated me - Israel. My guest is Susan Schwartz, Managing Director at ConvExx, Susan travels to Israel frequently both with family and to visit family, and shares some recommended sites, dispels the myths of danger, and gets us excited about seeing this country so rich in history.

    Thanks for listening! Remember, you can also find the podcast on iTunes, and while you’re there, please take a minute and leave us a rating and review. See you next week.

  • Episode 2: Where Else To Go: Puglia, Italy

    Episode 2: Where Else To Go: Puglia, Italy

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to Episode 2 of the Where Else to Go podcast. Today I chat with writer and tour leader Victoria De Maio.So where else does Victoria recommend? Puglia, Italy. If you’ve been to other parts of Italy, or love the slow pace of the countryside, Puglia may be the perfect spot for your next vacation.La dolce vita for me sums up Victoria’s passion and love for all things Italian. As a travel consultant, blogger, writer, and published author, Victoria loves sharing practical no-nonsense travel tips and insights as well as her own experiences from a personal and light-hearted point-of-view.Victoria offers boutique tours to Italy and published her first book, Victoria’s Travel TipZ Italian Style, which is available on Amazon.What’s on Victoria's bucket list? Spain, Portugal, and going back to Greece.Learn more about Victoria at her blog, PostcardzfromVictoria. You can find her on Twitter at @LaDolceVita4Me, on Facebook, on Pinterest, on YouTube, and on Instagram. Join me for episode #2: Where Else to Go: Puglia, Italy[app_audio src="http://traffic.libsyn.com/whereelsetogo/Episode_2_-_Puglia.mp3"]

  • Episode #4 - Where Else to Go: Santa Fe

    Episode #4 - Where Else to Go: Santa Fe

    · Where Else to Go
    Welcome to episode #4 of the Where Else to Go podcast. Today's guest is Billie Frank who, among the other many hats she wears, owns own a trip-planning and tour business.Where else does Billie recommmend? Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. Billie blends in the history, culture, and art of the city along with a healthy dose of food. She also answers the questions - red or green?If you enjoy traveling to experience art, music, Native American and Spanish Colonial culture, sustainable food, and outdoor adventure may find that Santa Fe is a great choice for your next vacation.Take a listen.Billie Frank is a freelance travel and food writer based in Santa Fe New Mexico. Her blog, Santa Fe Travelers, is a treasure trove of information on the oldest capital city in the USA as well as her travels beyond. She’s also the Santa Fe Local Expert for 10.best.com. Billie and her husband Steve Collins own The Santa Fe Traveler, a trip-planning and tour business.You can find Billie on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.If you're enjoying this podcast, you can subscribe on iTunes. I broadcast a new podcast every Monday. And while you're over on iTunes, please do me a favor and leave a rating and review. This is a new show and your reviews help position us where others can see it.

    Join me for episode #4:

    Where Else to Go: Santa Fe, New Mexico[app_audio src="http://traffic.libsyn.com/whereelsetogo/Episode_4_-_Santa_Fe.mp3"]
  • Episode #5 - Where Else to Go: Bend, Oregon

    Episode #5 - Where Else to Go: Bend, Oregon

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to episode #5 of the Where Else to Go podcast. We appreciate our growing community of listeners and fans and thank you for the support you've shown. Today's guest is Viv Chapleo who leveraged more than 20 years of experience in hospitality and business to create WAVEJourney, an e-zine for women travelers.Where else does Viv recommend? Bend, Oregon. Along with her partner Jill Hoelting, Viv has made Bend her home for the past 11 years. She came for a vacation, but the Cascade Mountain views, plus all the recreational activities (road and mountain biking; skiing and winter sports; Deschutes River runs through town; 100+ lakes nearby; hiking galore) , craft breweries, golf courses, outdoor summer festivals/concerts/events, quaint downtown, Old Mill District, etc., convinced them to move their and make it home.Bend is a great four seasons destinations. If you like Palm Springs, you'll like Bend in the summer. If you like Aspen to ski, you'll like Bend in the winter. If you like Missoula, Montana, you'll like Bend all year round. And let's not forget the great craft beer scene.Viv and Jill have combined their collective passions for travel and meeting people from around the world, and created WaveJourney. Established in 2005 and launched to the public on January 16, 2006, WAVEJourney.com is a women’s travel e-zine that provides valuable firsthand recommendations to a worldwide audience. As women make 80+% of the travel decisions for couples and family travel, this e-zine is written to assist them in their trip planning… “Happy wife = Happy life!”You can find WaveJourney on your favorite social media platform, including Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube.If you’re enjoying this podcast, you can subscribe on iTunes. I broadcast a new podcast every Monday. And while you’re over on iTunes, please do me a favor and leave a rating and review. This is a new show and your reviews help position us where others can see it.[app_audio src="http://traffic.libsyn.com/whereelsetogo/Episode_5_-_Bend.mp3"]

  • Episode #6 - Where Else to Go: Marco Island, Florida

    Episode #6 - Where Else to Go: Marco Island, Florida

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to episode #6 of the Where Else to Go podcast. I'm still not sure I have the hang of podcasting yet, but I am having a lot of fun talking about some great travel destinations with some great travelers. If you're enjoying the podcast, please take a moment and give us a rating and/or review on iTunes. That simple little thing helps a lot in getting the podcast noticed by others. Thanks!Now, on to today's show on Marco Island, Florida.My guest for this episode is Kay Dougherty. Kay left corporate life in Boston for beach life in Florida and time to travel the world. She talks today about her current home base in Marco Island, Florida, telling us why it's a great where else to go spot for our next beach vacation.Kay says there are all kinds of things to do on Marco Island - many involving water activities. You can charter boats for pleasure or deep sea-fishing trips. Take day trips to see dolphins, go shelling or to see the sunset or just to explore the 10,000 Islands. There's a ferry to Key West. One thing she's looking forward to doing is taking a seaplane to Key West with Salt Island Seaplanes (out of Naples). Marco is a good place for adults only or families (not so much for singles or solo travelers). Lots of free activities - music concerts in the park, two beautiful public beacheas, weekly farmers' market, art shows, etc. A really fun thing to do is to go jet-skiiing in the 10,000 Islands with Captain Ron's Everglades Jet Ski Tours. There's an excellent small local museum about the history of the island. Marco is very low key, the complete opposite of the east coast of Florida.If you're looking for a low key getaway, Marco Island may be the perfect spot for your next beach vacation.If you want you learn more about Kay you can follow her on Blonde Brunette travel, a humorous travel blog primarily about international travel with her sister. All continents, cultures, means of travel and experience are considered, explored, critiqued and found to have some humore in them. Kay shares useful information and honest opinions; if she can get you to snort a drink out your nose over something she's written, she considers it the ultimate compliment.You can also connect with Kay on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Google+, and Pinterest.Be sure to join us next week when we visit another island, Kauai.[app_audio src="http://traffic.libsyn.com/whereelsetogo/Episode2023620-20Marco20Island2C20Florida.mp3"]

  • Episode #8 - Where Else to Go: Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

    Episode #8 - Where Else to Go: Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

    · Where Else to Go

    Thanks so much for joining me for Episode #8 of the Where Else to Go Podcast. We're on an island theme right now, having already covered Marco Island, Florida and Lihue, Hawaii. This week we're off to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands with Cheryl and Lisa of What Boundaries Travel Media.The Galapagos Islands recently made the top of Cheryl and Lisa's favorite travel destination after a recent trip to the islands. Getting so close to the flora and fauna of the islands made them feel like they were taking a step back in time. The animals have no fear of humans so they really had a chance to see them in their real habitat. And they add, "One of the highlights was when we snorkeled with the sea lions - they would always come play with us!"You might think that getting to the Galapagos Islands is too great of a challenge to get to and to see the islands because of the restrictions. However, it's an amazing experience to see the animals up close since they have no fear of humans. You will see some amazing land animals like the land iguana or Galapagos Tortoise, land birds like the Blue Footed Booby, and in the water you will swim with seals and an occasional penguin at the Equator!SouthThere are many options on how to experience the Galapagos. You can fly into one of the main islands like San Cristobal and make it your home base while planning day trips to the various islands, or you can opt to take a luxury tour with a group like Ecoventura where your yacht is the “home base” and you travel between the islands with a stop at a different island every day. It surprisingly easy to get to the islands - there are many flights through Panama or even directly into Ecuador (another beautiful place), then it’s just a quick flight out to the islands.Chery and Lisa started traveling pretty much full time in 2007 after leaving corporate jobs and have since visited 6 continents with sights on Antarctica to hit their goal of all 7.Cheryl and Lisa keep busy traveling and writing for their their three blogs: WhatBoundariesTravel, TheTravelPharmacist, and coming soon, the FloridaSpectator. Their focus is on Gen X and Boomer travel with a goal to provide travel inspiration to their readers. They sum it up simply, "We love to travel and even more, love to share our experiences with others so they feel more comfortable traveling."Take a listen to learn why the Galapagos Island should be on your where else to go list. Then follow Cheryl and Lisa on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, Instagram and YouTube.If you've enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe on iTunes. While you're over there, please take a moment and leave us a rating or review. That helps this very new podcast get discovered by others.See you next week when we we'll be talking about Venice, Italy.[app_audio src="http://traffic.libsyn.com/whereelsetogo/Episode2023820-20Galapagos20Island.mp3"]

  • Episode #14 - Where Else to Go: A Japanese Onsen

    Episode #14 - Where Else to Go: A Japanese Onsen

    · Where Else to Go

    Welcome to episode #14 of the Where Else to Go podcast. We've just hit the three month mark for the podcast, and I thank all of you - friends, guests, and listeners - who've helped me nurture this podcast from idea to reality.My guest today is Ramona Flume. Ramona and I traveled together to Japan a couple months ago, and I've been looking forward to having her on the show. We're going to talk about the very Japanese tradition and experience of the onsen (bath). There are thousands of onsens around Japan and they are play an important part in Japanese tourism.The word onsen originally referred to hot springs and, by law, must include water that contains one of the designated chemical elements and have a temperature of at least 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of its mineral content, the water is often believed to have healing powers.I can't imagine a visit to Japan that doesn't include a visit (or several visits) to an onsen, and I hope this episode, and Ramona's tips, help get you ready for this where else to go experience.Some information referenced in this episode: Hotel New Plaza Awajishima Tougenkyo-Iya (ryokan) Hotel Iya Onsen (onsen with funicular access) The Japanese Spa: A Guide to Japan's Finest Ryokan and OnsenRamona is a freelance writer and editor, contributing travel and cultural content for national magazines, newspapers, and websites. You can find more about her work on her website, RamonaFlume.com. She is also the co-creator of Loti, a new travel journal and global marketplace supporting independent artists around the world.Thanks for listening! Remember, you can also find the podcast on iTunes, and while you're there, please take a minute and leave us a rating and review. See you next week.Photo courtesy of Ramona Flume.[app_audio src="http://traffic.libsyn.com/whereelsetogo/Episode_14_-_Japanese_onsen.mp3"]

  • Episode #13 - Where Else to Go: Northern Peru

    Episode #13 - Where Else to Go: Northern Peru

    · Where Else to Go

    When you think about traveling to Peru, you most likely think about Machu Pichu in the Andes. But today's guest, Chris Backe, wants you to think about visiting the ruins and historical sites in Northern Peru for your next "where else to go" vacation.

    Chris is the blogger behind One Weird Globe, which explores the world's offbeat and bizarre destinations, and is the publisher of Choose a Way books, the tap-your-own-adventure guidebooks to real-life destinations. He's been seen in Atlas Obscura, Mental Floss, the Daily Mail, and dozens of other publications. Chris and his wife, a fellow traveler from Canada, have spent time living in Peru, and he shares what we've been missing in northern Peru.

    Chris says that northern Peru features an array of authentic, ancient, and well-preserved ruins from both pre-Inca and Inca civilizations. Machu Picchu, for all the attention it receives, ends up putting many worthy places in a big shadow. Offerings like the Huaca de la Luna (the temple of the moon) and Chan Chan (a UNESCO World Heritage) in Trujillo make for a pleasant stay – and having a beach town in Huanchaco only 20 minutes away is a nice bonus as well. Kuelap Fortress, one of the biggest stone fortresses remaining in the world, is located near Chachapoyas and is one of the most easily approached ruins in Peru. Chris has written about some of the other historical sites in this blog post.

    If you're ready for something more exotic, a few towns in Peru have "witches markets", selling potions and ingredients that look like they belong in a witches potion! There's also the Guinea pig breeding tour in Puno, the Museo del Cerebro (Brain Museum) in Lima, and a spectacular museum of 100+ cars (in photo above), an easy taxi ride from Lima.

    Besides his blog, you'll find Chris on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

    If you’re enjoying these podcasts, please take a minute to subscribe on iTunes. And don’t forget to leave a rating (5-stars is always nice!) and/or review.

  • Episode #11 - Where Else to Go: Oman

    Episode #11 - Where Else to Go: Oman

    · Where Else to Go

    Located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, Oman is a travel destination that is surrounded by mystery and myths. Tourism is on the rise in Oman, and it is predicted to soon be one of the largest industries in the Sultanate. Part of the rise in tourism can be attributed to cruise lines making Oman a port of call, but the country's tourism slogan - "Beauty has an address" - is helping to position it as a safe, affordable, and beautiful travel destinaton.

    On Episode #11 of the Where Else to Go podcast, I'm joined by Nicole Brewer, a Detroit native, who has been living and working in Nizwa, Oman, for the past three years. She says she's found the locals to be extremely nice and accommodating, and wishes more people would experience the beauty that Oman has to offer.

    A couple of the resorts that Nicole loves are the Shangri-La in Muscat and a 5-star resort in the mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar. And she impresses upon us both the beauty and the cultural aspect of tourism in Oman.

    To follow more of Nicole's adventures and travel writing, check out her blog, I Luv 2 Globetrot, and follow her on social media on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

    If you're enjoying these podcasts, please take a minute to subscribe on iTunes. And don't forget to leave and rating (5-stars is always nice!) and revivew.

    Photo courtesy of Nicole Brewer

  • Episode #12 - Where Else to Go: Chattanooga

    Episode #12 - Where Else to Go: Chattanooga

    · Where Else to Go

    With its convenient location in southeastern Tennessee -it's aneasy getaway from Atlanta, Knoxville, Nashville, Hunstsville, andBirmingham - it surprised me that most people don't think ofChattanooga. It seems like an overlooked city, a definite whereelse to go destination, and it could easily be added on to a visitto this part of the country.

    Joining me on Episode #12 to talk about Chattanooga is CoryLee.

    Cory Lee wasdiagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of two, but thatcertainly has not diminished his desire to travel - wheelchair andall. He has been everywhere from Australia to Iceland, just to namea few, and he blogs about his accessible (and sometimes not soaccessible) travel adventures on CurbFreeWithCoryLee.com. Coryhopes to inspire others to break out of their comfort zones andstart rolling around the world.

    Getting around a city can be a bit frustrating for Cory attimes, as he looks for accessible public transporation and taxis.He visits Chatannooga frequently as not only is it close to hishome in Lafayette, Georgia, (about a 30 minute drive), but it's aeasy city for him to get around.

    Cory says there are plenty of superb restaurants,attractions, outdoor activities, and even an arts district inChattanooga. Its'a a growing city, with new businessespopping up around the city. It's also near the Ocoee River, wherepart of the 1996 Olympics took place, and a short drive from theGreat Smoky Mountains. You'll want to listen to the full podcastfor all the places Cory recommends, but here are a links to a fewstories that give you a little more background.

    Rock City - Located at the top of a mountin, the entire site isnot wheelchair accessible. However, there is a special path forwheelchair usersthat is stair-free, so you can take in thespectacular views.Chattanooga Zoo - One of Cory's favorite spots inChattanooga.

    To follow Cory's travels, and learn more about accessibletravel, check out his website, Curb Free with Cory Lee. Youcan follow him on social media at Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

    If you’re enjoying these podcasts, please take a minuteto subscribe on iTunes. And don’t forget to leave a rating(5-stars is always nice!) and review.

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