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Join host Laura Lisensky as she explores the world! As much about storytelling as it is about travel recommendations, this podcast will immerse you in the sound and experience of discovering a place for the first time. Her travel style varies-sometimes its solo travel, sometimes its travel with kids, but you can always count on an adventure. Laura is a biology and environmental science teacher who strives to travel responsibly and dives into local foods, culture and experiences. She travels with her recorder, grabbing audio as she goes, never sure what will happen next- so you really are travelling along with her!
52 Episodes
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Getting around Ometepe Island in Nicaragua isn’t as simple as it looks on a map — and sometimes the best way to explore is to grab the handlebars and go. In this episode, I take you along for the ride as I trade mountain hikes for an ATV adventure around the volcanic island. From bumpy unpaved roads to unexpected rainstorms and delicious street food, it’s a day of freedom, mud, and a few surprises along the way. When the gas gauge doesn’t function, things get interesting. Join me as I navigat...
In this episode of Travel Along with Laura, we’re back on the volcanic island of Ometepe in Lake Nicaragua. This time, we head to the lowlands between the two volcanoes to kayak along the Río Istian, where the wildlife is on display- howler monkeys calling from the trees, caimans gliding below the surface, toothy tropical gars submerged in the muck and the curious song of the Tungara frog echoing through the dusk. Along the way, we'll walk to a mountainside ecolodge, hear about La...
Welcome to Ometepe, the magical island in Central America's largest lake! In this episode, Laura takes you on the ferry, shares the story of Ometepe’s twin volcanoes, and dives into the island’s deep history, wild creatures, and sacred spirit. You’ll visit El Pital Chocolate Paradise to learn about cacao—from ancient traditions to modern chocolate-making—and even hear how bull sharks have learned to thrive in fresh water. This is just the beginning of Laura’s Ometepe adventure! Musica...
In this episode, Laura takes us to León, Nicaragua — a city of striking colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and surprising adventures. From climbing the roof of its dazzling white cathedral to exploring bustling markets, León offers both authentic charm and plenty to do. We’ll venture beyond the city to experience the adrenaline rush of volcano boarding at Cerro Negro, complete with the highs, lows, and honest realities of this famous activity. Then we wind down at nearby Las Peñitas ...
In this episode of Travel Along with Laura, we’re continuing our adventure on the Puerto Rican island of Vieques. From serene black-sand beaches to unexpected jungle detours, this trip has it all. Join Laura and her partner Carrie as they explore Playa Negra and Playa Grande, trek through island trails, search for old sugar mill ruins, and get more adventure than they bargained for while stumbling across abandoned U.S. Navy bunkers hidden in the forest. Plus, we’ll talk about the “wild” horse...
Off the eastern tip of Puerto Rico lies the Caribbean island of Vieques. In this episode, we trade San Juan’s buzz for beach bars and an unforgettable ride through the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Along the way, Laura takes a tiny airplane, sips painkillers under the stars, and pops the question! From glass-bottom kayaks to an island wide power outage, Vieques gave us more adventure—and romance—than we ever expected. Want to support the podcast? Go to Laura's Patreon site to see...
Join Laura on a flavorful journey through the lush landscapes of Puerto Rico! We’ll explore the famed "ruta de lechon," where succulent pork is roasted to perfection at lechoneras dotting the mountain roads. Our adventure takes us through the Carite rainforest where you can hike to breathtaking swimming holes and sip holy spring water at a catholic pilgrimage site. Listen in as our guide, Adrian, shares insights about the island’s history, from the original Taino inhabitants to the vibr...
We're heading to the vibrant capital city of San Juan, Puerto Rico! Join Laura as she explores the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town, surrounded by historic castles and forts, before venturing into the modern neighborhood of Santurce. She'll also take you inside the Ron de Barrilito distillery to uncover the secrets behind Puerto Rico’s world-famous rum. Come along as she learns about the complexities of Puerto Rico's status as a U.S. commonwealth and the island’s fascinating cultural ...
Escape the bustle of Tokyo and step into the serene hills of Hakone in this episode of Travel Along with Laura. Tucked beneath Mt. Fuji, Hakone is a series of quaint lakeside towns dotted with traditional ryokans and soothing onsens. Join Laura, her partner Carrie, and their two kids as they navigate cultural norms, soak in hot spring baths, savor multi-course kaiseki meals, and marvel at dramatic sulfur mines from a cable car. Along the way, experience the quiet charm of early morning bird s...
Join Laura and her family as they explore the vibrant streets and serene shrines of Kyoto in the second episode of Travel Along with Laura’s Japan series! From climbing through torii gates at Shinto shrines and tasting matcha shaved ice to exploring the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, the family dives into the sights, flavors, and sounds of Kyoto. Wander bustling food stalls, discover TikTok-famous Tanghulu strawberries, and enjoy unforgettable meals in cozy tatami-style restaurants. Experience ...
Step into the dazzling chaos and cozy corners of Tokyo in this first episode of Travel Along with Laura’s Japan series! From the towering lights of Shinjuku to the quirky charm of Akihabara’s arcades, Laura, her partner Carrie, and their two kids explore the city’s endless neighborhoods, food, and culture. Discover hidden gems like tiny yakitori restaurants, the TeamLab Borderless light museum, and the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Along the way, learn practical tips for navigating Tokyo’s trains,...
In this episode, Laura takes you on what might be her most bizarre adventure yet: venturing deep into a working silver mine in Potosi, Bolivia. Past a smoking shrine to the local god Tio, she descends into perforated rock with nothing but coca leaves and 192-proof alcohol to keep her nerves steady. This gritty story reveals the harsh realities of life inside the mine, including its history and the people who work there under dangerous conditions. Beyond Potosi, Laura explores Bolivia’s ...
It’s time for a classic American vacation—Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, RV style! Laura and her kids dive into the glitz and spectacle of Vegas, from buffets to Cirque du Soleil, navigating the Strip with wide-eyed wonder (and a few laughs along the way). Then the family hits the road in their very first RV adventure, braving winding desert roads, chilly canyon nights, and a few unexpected mishaps, all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery of the Grand Canyon. Along the way, Laura...
Travel along with Laura to Tikal. As one of the most significant Mayan sites, this should definitely be on your lifetime bucket list. Tucked into the jungles of Guatemala, these striking temples rise magnificently above the trees. The forest is crawling with wildlife as we explore this incredible and expansive place at sunset. Want to support the podcast? Go to Laura's Patreon site to see photos from the episode, maps of places she talks about and you can become a patron too! Fol...
Travel along with Laura to the enchanting island of Flores, tucked into Lake Petén Itzá in northern Guatemala. Wander its colorful cobblestone streets, explore charming plazas and local markets, and soak in the vibrant lakeside atmosphere. Along the way, enjoy delicious Guatemalan food, refreshing drinks, a little swimming, and some unexpected adventures when the road had other plans. This episode is a mix of relaxation, discovery, and the surprises that make travel unforgettable. ...
Travel along with Laura and Carrie to the laid-back Caribbean island of Caye Caulker, Belize, where the motto is “Go Slow.” Stroll the colorful streets, swim in clear waters, and meet some of the island’s incredible wildlife—including rays, tarpons, and a very curious conch. Dive into a unique adventure as we try our hand at spearfishing for the first time, learning, laughing, and tasting the catch of the day—including lionfish and fresh lobster straight from the ocean. Along the way, w...
Travel along with Laura to the jungle town of San Ignacio, Belize, a hub for adventure, history, and wildlife. Stop by the Belize Zoo on the way, hop across the Mopan River on a hand-cranked ferry to explore the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, and hear about the incredible Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves—where swimming, wading, and scrambling reveal a sacred site with intact human remains. Along the way, Laura shares tips for DIY travel, showcases the local food scene, and discovers the v...
Travel along with Laura and her children as they head inland to explore the stunning Plitvice National Park, with its 16 color-changing lakes and countless waterfalls. Beat the crowds, enjoy a picnic in the shade, and navigate shuttles and boat rides in this magical fairy-tale setting. Then, it’s off to Zagreb, an underrated gem of a capital city, where streetcars, historic charm, and a sudden storm show the unpredictable side of travel. Experience the breathtaking scenery, the family adventu...
In this first episode about Croatia, Laura and her kids head to the northern coast to explore the charming town of Rovinj and the scenic island of Krk. Wander the winding streets of Rovinj’s old town, soak in the Adriatic views, and enjoy some of the best seafood Croatia has to offer. Then, hit the road through Istria to Krk, where pristine beaches, picturesque villages, and a little adventure await. Join Laura as she shares the joys, hiccups, and travel lessons of exploring Croatia with kids...
Join Laura and her increasingly adaptable children as they explore the iconic waterways of Venice. Soak up the romantic atmosphere as they dine, sleep and navigate around the winding canals to see the main sites including Piazza San Marco, the Rialto bridge and the peaceful island of Burano, known for its colorful houses. Want to support the podcast? Go to Laura's Patreon site to see photos from the episode, maps of places she talks about and you can become a patron too! Follow the s...
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