Stephanie Zito takes us on an extraordinary adventure from a childhood with little travel to conquering the globe with 153 countries under her belt. Sparked by her grandparents' tales and a teacher's mesmerizing slideshows, Stephanie's journey truly launched when a friend encouraged her to study abroad in London. Her story is a testament to how travel can transform us, offering lessons in embracing the world's endless possibilities and turning exploration into a force for good.Step into the w...
Unlock the secrets to a memorable solo travel experience with our exclusive guide to the safest and most captivating destinations of 2025. Discover how cities like Brisbane, Australia, offer a vibrant culture and nightlife alongside unmatched safety, making it a prime choice for solo and female travelers. With insights from travel aficionado Julie Fenn, we unveil the rejuvenating waterfalls and hiking trails of Nikko, Japan, as the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility. Koh Samui, Tha...
Ever wondered how your next travel adventure could be influenced by the stars, or even your favorite TV show? Join us for a captivating exploration of travel trends shaping 2025. We promise you'll uncover insights into how eco-tourism is not just a buzzword but a meaningful movement transforming the travel landscape. Imagine planning a getaway with the help of AI or experiencing the cosmos in newly designated dark sky parks—these are just some of the revelations awaiting you. Discover how sil...
What if exploring the world could also deepen your sense of community? Join us as we welcome Kimberly Long, a cherished listener and fellow Texan whose recent adventures have taken her through the breathtaking landscapes of Oregon and Washington on an invigorating six-day bike tour. With an e-bike to keep pace and a group of 18 enthusiastic cyclists, Kimberly paints a vivid picture of the joys and camaraderie found when exploring the Columbia River Gorge and the Willamette Valley. Her tales o...
What happens when a corporate risk manager swaps her suit for a paddle and a sense of adventure? Meet Sarah Davis, an inspiring adventurer whose journey from the boardroom to the Nile's wild waters is nothing short of remarkable. We promise you'll uncover how Sarah transformed her life by harnessing her professional skills to conquer the world's most challenging environments. Her tales of paddling the Nile and cycling across Australia aren't just about adventure; they're lessons in overcoming...
Are you ready to safeguard your digital life during your travels? From avoiding the perils of free Wi-Fi, especially in airports, to steering clear of public USB ports, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep your data secure. With firsthand insights and a sprinkle of cautionary tales, I'll guide you in making informed decisions about when and where to connect your devices.As a solo travel advocate and coach, I also emphasize the importance of being aware of your surroun...
Imagine escaping the dreary winter chills to sunlit paradises where the sand is warm, and the worries of everyday life melt away. As we mark the second anniversary of our podcast and celebrate the milestone of over 50,000 downloads, we reflect on the incredible journey of supporting solo travelers worldwide. This episode is a special winter guide to idyllic beach destinations: the mesmerizing overwater bungalows of the Maldives, the vibrant and budget-friendly allure of Bali, and the diverse,...
Sharon McQuaid's journey from a Texas classroom to the enchanting streets of Paris is nothing short of inspirational. As a former educator, Sharon bravely transitioned during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving behind systemic issues and micromanagement to embrace a life of adventure and mystery. Her story, fueled by the spirit of characters like Trixie Belden, captures the essence of following one’s dreams and finding joy in unexpected places along the East Coast. With AmeriCorp...
Embarking on a solo road trip from Texas to Maine amidst the vibrant fall foliage, I discovered the profound healing power of travel during a tumultuous time in my life. As I reflect on this journey, it was pivotal in regaining my independence and self-confidence after a tough divorce. Through sharing my story, I hope to inspire you to find solace and strength in your own adventures, big or small, and to explore the transformative impact of travel on personal growth and healing.I'm thrilled t...
What if your journey could transform you in ways you never expected? Join me as I recount my solo adventure walking the Camino, where each step brought new insights and challenges. From pushing too hard on the first day to learning the art of lightening my backpack, I share the seven key lessons that shaped my pilgrimage. This journey might have fulfilled my pilgrimage craving, yet it sparked a curiosity for other trails in Japan and the Canary Islands.Sometimes the path you plan isn't the pa...
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to embrace a nomadic lifestyle after decades of traditional living? This episode brings you Kim’s extraordinary journey from a settled family life to a liberating nomadic existence. Kim, an adventurous empty nester and recent divorcee, found herself storing her belongings in January 2020 and embarking on a life of global exploration. From her middle-class roots in California to navigating travel restrictions in Mexico and solo adventures in Tanzania, Kim ...
What if you could transform your life by simply walking? Join us as we share an extraordinary conversation with Joy Alway, a seasoned hiker and author, who has journeyed across multiple Camino de Santiago routes. Joy’s epic 1,754-kilometer trek from Le Puy-en-Velay to Santiago and onto the coast at Fisterra and Muxia uncovers the magic and challenges of the Camino. Learn from her firsthand experiences about the French, Portuguese, and Northern routes, and get expert tips on timing your advent...
Have you ever dreamed of embarking on a centuries-old pilgrimage? Join me as I take you through my rigorous preparations for walking the Camino de Santiago, beginning from the scenic city of Porto, Portugal, and taking the breathtaking coastal route. You'll discover the historical importance of this ancient journey and learn about the physical training and gear selection that are crucial for a successful trek. From rucking with a weighted pack to breaking in the perfect pair of trail running ...
Ever wondered about the latest travel updates that could make or break your next adventure? Don't miss out on crucial news that could affect your plans, from new tourist fees to digital entry systems in Europe. This episode is packed with insights that will help you navigate these upcoming changes seamlessly and keep your travel experiences hassle-free.We'll cover everything from the EU's newly postponed tourist fee and Italy's highly anticipated Year of Jubilee in 2025, to New Zealand's sign...
Ever wondered how artificial intelligence could transform your travel plans. We'll explore how AI tools like ChatGPT, Poe, Claude, and Google Gemini can simplify the often overwhelming task of trip planning. I’ll also stress the importance of verifying AI-generated information through personal anecdotes to ensure your plans are both practical and current. This episode is packed with tips and insights on leveraging technology while keeping your travel adventures safe and enjoyable.Inspired to ...
Ready to uncover the secrets of snagging the best flight deals without the hassle? I break down the myth of the "Tuesday deal" and reveal the real "Goldilock's window" for booking flights. Whether you're planning a domestic trip or an international escapade, discover why booking 1-3 months ahead for domestic flights and 2-8 months for international journeys is your golden ticket. Plus, get insider tips on using Google Flights, Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights), and Hopper to monitor and ...
Do you ever wonder how to stay connected without breaking the bank while exploring the world? Cheryl uncovers the secrets to mastering SIM cards and eSIMs for international travel. Learn from her personal experiences with different mobile providers, including the cost-effective options from T-Mobile compared to Verizon’s pricey plans. Discover the benefits and drawbacks of using WhatsApp for communication, and get the lowdown on phones that support dual SIM capabilities, particularly among po...
Have you ever wondered how to escape the monotony of your routine without venturing too far from home? Join me as I share my journey of creating a local bucket list that's both accessible and thrilling. From the excitement of attending a rodeo at the Fort Worth Stockyards to the elegance of the Dallas Shakespeare Festival, I'll guide you through my personal experience of rediscovering local gems. These adventures prove that you don’t need to travel far to experience something new and enrichin...
What happens when a childhood road trip sparks a lifelong passion for adventure and discovery? Meet Beth Binger, better known as Bing, the founder of WonderBing Travel. In this episode, Bing takes us back to her transformative journey from Pennsylvania to the Grand Tetons at the age of 12, a trip that ignited her love for solo travel. With her trusty Golden Retriever, Lexi, by her side, Bing now dedicates her life to empowering women to break free from fear and embrace the liberating experien...
Ever wondered what it's like to have complete freedom on your travels? Join me on an exploration of the empowering benefits of solo travel. In this episode, I promise you'll uncover seven compelling reasons to embark on a solo adventure, even if you're a seasoned traveler or contemplating your first trip alone. From setting your own schedule to savoring the thrill of spontaneous decisions, I share personal experiences that illuminate the joys of independent travel. The transformative pow...