Amateur Traveler Podcast (iTunes enhanced) | travel for the love of it

Hear about travel to Central Asia or the 'Stans as the Amateur Traveler talks to Megan Cox from Meg the Rolling Egg about her trip to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan.
Why should you go to Central Asia?
Meg says, "Whilst there was , 'Oh my God, this place is amazing. I don't know why people aren't talking about it more. I don't know why people aren't coming here more often.' It has something for everyone. It's really just a beautiful place to go. So I felt like I wanted to promote a little bit."
Day 1-3: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Day 1: Arrive in Almaty. Explore the city:

Wander the streets and parks.

Visit Ascension Cathedral (a stunning yellow Orthodox church).

Attend a performance at the Abay Opera House.

Try Georgian food, available throughout the city.

...
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-stans/
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This episode features Tiffany Funk from Point.me, a tool that helps travelers maximize airline points for flights. Host Chris Christensen and Tiffany discuss how to earn, manage, and use airline points effectively. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Overview of Points and Miles

Why Points Matter: Airline loyalty programs incentivize consumers and fill unsold seats. Points programs are massive profit centers for airlines, often tied to credit card partnerships.

Who Can Benefit: Anyone can take advantage of airline points, even non-frequent flyers or children, using strategies like shopping portals or team promotions (e.g., Delta rewards for Seahawks touchdowns).

...
https://amateurtraveler.com/airlines-points-and-miles/
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Why should you go to Lyon?
Audra says, "It's a magical town. It is a little bit like Paris in the fact that it has, in fact, two rivers, so maybe a little bit better than Paris, two rivers running through it, a beautiful church on a hill, beautiful French architecture, wonderful museums, wonderful cathedrals, and it's also known as the Culinary Capital of France."
Audra's 7-day itinerary for visiting Lyon, France, is as follows:
Day 1: Fourvière Hill and Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière:

Start at this iconic hilltop basilica, known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, Gothic and Romanesque architecture, and panoramic views of Lyon.

Take the funicular to the top and enjoy a guided or night tour (available in specific months).

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-lyon-france/
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Hear about an itinerary for travel to Bolivia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jayne Dear from The Only Way is Not Essex about her recent trip to this landlocked South American country.
Jayne says, you “should go to Bolivia because it’s a very diverse country. It has the largest salt flats in the world. Uyuni, which I visited, and I did that on a three-day tour. Also, go because it’s a great way of having a budget trip to the Amazon. It’s a very diverse country. I think it’s the 27th largest country in the world. There’s a dry forest as well as the rainforest.”
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https://amateurtraveler.com/bolivia-itinerary/
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Hear about trips from Manila as the Amateur Traveler talks to Justin from justin-travel.com about where to go after visiting the Philippine capital.
Justin's recommended itinerary for day trips from Manila includes a variety of locations within a one to three-hour drive, each offering a different experience. Here's the suggested route:
Day 1: Exploring Manila

Intramuros: Begin with a visit to the historic walled city. Explore landmarks like Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila to get a sense of the city's Spanish colonial history.

Rizal Park: Walk through this significant historical park named after José Rizal, the national hero, to learn about the Philippines' struggle for independence.

Binondo (Chinatown): Enjoy a food crawl in the world’s oldest Chinatown. Discover local delicacies from street food stalls and eateries. Consider a Binondo food crawl guided tour to maximize your experience.

Corregidor Island (Optional): If time allows, take a full-day tour to this historic island in Manila Bay, known for its World War II history. Tours usually depart from the SM Mall of Asia area.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/trips-from-manila-philippines/
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Hear about travel to Mallorca, Spain, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kristin Henning from travelpast50.com and Courtney Drake McDonough from realfoodtraveler.com about our recent press trip to the island.
In the podcast, Chris, Kristin, and Courtney share various recommendations for a trip to Mallorca, Spain:

Palma:

The group suggests starting in Palma, the main city, known for its historical significance and vibrant atmosphere. Recommended activities include:

Visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma (La Seu), a stunning Gothic cathedral with architectural contributions from Gaudí and modern artist Miguel Barceló.

Exploring the old town with its historic streets, markets, and architecture.

Strolling down Bourne Street, a charming avenue with cafes, flower markets, and beautiful architecture.

Trying traditional pastries at El Fornet de la Soca, a bakery specializing in historic Mallorcan recipes, including the famous ensaimada.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-mallorca/
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from the Zero to Travel Podcast:
How to Start Planning Your First (Or Next) Career Break Today (Using 5 Simple Steps) with Cali O´Connor
Have you thought about hitting pause on your career to travel the world but are unsure how to make it a reality? It’s not as unattainable as you may think!
Cali O’Connor shares her experience of taking multiple career breaks and offers 5 practical steps to start planning your own career break today.
Cali is a former chemical engineer who traded her career in the oilfield for a life-changing adventure of quitting her job to travel around the world. Now, she helps working professionals find clarity in their lives by taking a career break that gives them the freedom to travel, explore, and realign with their life goals.
Whether you dream of quitting your job or taking a temporary pause, this episode will give you the confidence and strategies to take that leap. You’ll hear about her biggest mistakes during her first career break (and how to avoid them), insights on overcoming common fears such as financial insecurity and leaving a stable job, travel advice to save time and money, and lessons on concurring travel burnout.

https://zerototravel.com/career-break-cali-oconnor/
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Hear about travel to Savannah, Georgia, and the vicinity as the Amateur Traveler talks to Yvonne Johnson about her adopted hometown.
Why should you go to Savannah?
Yvonne says, "Savannah is just this perfect mix. There's beautiful weather if you come at the right time, and there's great history, and there's great restaurants, and there's just so much to do, and I've raised my children here, and I have guests all the time, and I just love entertaining here."
Yvonne suggests a diverse one-week itinerary in Savannah, Georgia that covers history, culture, dining, and outdoor activities. Here's a summary of her recommendations:
Day 1:

Old Town Trolley Tour: Take the trolley for a narrated overview of Savannah, exploring the city's historic district and landmarks.

Savannah History Museum: Located in the Central of Georgia Railway Station, this museum showcases local history and movie memorabilia like Forrest Gump's park bench.

Georgia State Railroad Museum: Visit this working roundhouse and explore the engines, miniature train displays, and a children's museum.

Ships of the Sea Museum: Explore maritime history in this mansion-turned-museum with ship models and antique collections.

Dinner at Carey Hilliard’s: Try their famous barbecue and award-winning sweet tea.

...
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-savannah-georgia-2/
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Hear about travel to Door County in Wisconsin as the Amateur Traveler talks with Bailey Freeman from atravelingbee.com about our recent press trip to the "Cape Cod of the Midwest."
Here are the key things to do in Door County, Wisconsin, based on our experiences:
Outdoor and Adventure Activities
Hiking and Nature Exploration

Peninsula State Park: Features a watchtower atop limestone cliffs with panoramic views of the bay and beyond.

Whitefish Dunes State Park: Home to the tallest sand dunes in Wisconsin, covered with trees and foliage.

Ridges Sanctuary: Offers boardwalks, rare plants, and historic range lights; it also features the southernmost boreal forest in the U.S.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/things-to-do-in-door-county-wisconsin/
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Hear about travel to the West Indies, to the islands of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, Anguilla, Saba, Saint Barthélemy, and Sint Eustatius, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jeff Ohlfs about his island-hopping adventure.
Why should you travel to these 5 islands?
Jeff says, "Some of them are not visited at all. Some of them are overly visited. They're all near each other, so it makes for a nice little grouping. I used St. Martin as a base. St. Martin is known as the friendly island and you can do daily flights to each of the other islands."
Jeff recommends an itinerary that includes visiting five of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, known as the British, Dutch, and French West Indies. His suggested itinerary includes the following islands:
St. Martin (French and Dutch)

Use St. Martin as a base for island hopping.

Stay at the Azure Hotel and Art Studio on Simpson Bay Beach.

Explore both the Dutch side (Philipsburg) and the French side (Marigot).

Visit historical forts like Fort Amsterdam and Fort St. Louis.

Experience the famous Princess Juliana International Airport at Maho Beach.

Recommended dining: Beirut Restaurant (Mediterranean), Mary's Boon Restaurant (local fish), and Villa Royale (French side, goat curry with guava berry liqueur).

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-west-indies/
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This Week in Travel was a podcast that was in production from 2009 to 2020. In this reunion episode of This Week in Travel (dubbed "This Decade in Travel"), the original hosts, Gary Arndt, Chris Christensen, and Jen Leo, reconnect after a long hiatus. They share life updates and reminisce about their past travels and podcasting adventures.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/this-week-in-travel-reunion/
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Hear about travel to the Laikipia region of Kenya as the Amateur Traveler talks to Shaun Stanley from Stanley Safaris about one of his favorite African destinations.
Why should you visit the Laikipia region?
Shaun says, "Kenya as a whole is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. That's where the safari basically originated. That comes with its own problems in the form of too many tourists being in certain areas like the Massai Mara, which at the moment is getting quite a bad reputation for being overpopulated with vehicles around different sightings. We try and get our guests out of those sorts of environments and into the real African experience".
"This is where Laikipia really comes into its own. It's up in the North. It's off the beaten track. And it's basically made up of a series of privately owned farms. Back in the day, there were cattle ranches. The owners have now looked at the conservation model and gone, okay, we're going to convert part of our ranch into a conservation area. They've started to reintroduce wildlife back into those areas. We're talking wildlife that is completely different to what you're going to get in the Masai Mara. So it's one of the best places in Africa to see both black and white rhino, which as we all know, are highly endangered across Africa".
In the podcast, Shaun Stanley recommends the following itinerary for a visit to the Laikipia region of Kenya:

Arrival in Nairobi:
Spend one night in Nairobi to recover from your flight and acclimate to the African atmosphere. This also provides time to adjust after arriving in Nairobi's chaotic airport.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-laikipia-region-of-kenya/
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Hear about travel to Normandy, France as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kat Butler from World Wide Honeymoon and France Voyager about this historic and wonderful part of France.
Why should you go to Normandy?
Kay says, "Normandy, I think, just offers so much. My road trip, that I did last year, was literally to prove that there was so much more to Normandy than the D-Day beaches. You've got Mont Saint Michel, the cider route. You've got the countryside. I think that Normandy makes some of the best cheese. You have The beaches. You also have places like. Giverny. You've got Etretat, which has the beautiful cliffs. It's well worth a visit."
Kat recommends a seven-day itinerary for Normandy, France, that offers a rich mix of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. Here's a summary of her suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Paris to Giverny, Les Andelys, and Rouen
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-normandy/
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Hear about driving the Romantic Road in Germany as the Amateur Traveler talks to Leland and Crissy Walker about their trip through medieval villages, walled towns, thermal spas, and breweries.
Why should you drive the Romantic Road?
Crissy says, " I would recommend sending someone on the Romantic Road because it's like stepping back in time. It felt like a fairy tale. I would not have been surprised if I saw the gingerbread man running down the street."
Leland and Crissy's recommended itinerary for Germany's Romantic Road is a one-week journey, traveling from north to south. Here's a detailed breakdown of their itinerary:
Crissy's Itinerary PDF
Day 1: Frankfurt to Würzburg
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https://amateurtraveler.com/driving-germanys-romantic-road/

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In this bonus episode of Amateur Traveler, we discuss issues associated with living abroad.

My Guest

Justin Burns, a part-time resident of the Canary Islands, joins us to share his experience of living abroad. He talks about the practical aspects of relocating to a foreign country, from navigating visa options to adjusting to life in a new place. Whether you're considering a move overseas or just curious about what it's like, Justin offers helpful insights based on his personal journey.

Questions

In this podcast with Justin Burns, several key questions are addressed, including:

How can someone move abroad and what are the steps involved?
Justin explains the different visa options, such as retirement, digital nomad, and investment visas, and the application process.

What challenges do people face when relocating to a foreign country?
He discusses both bureaucratic hurdles, like obtaining necessary documents and dealing with red-tape, and emotional challenges related to language barriers and cultural adjustments.

What are the costs of living abroad compared to the U.S.?
Justin compares the cost of healthcare, housing, groceries, transportation, and more in Spain to the U.S. and provides insights into how moving abroad can result in significant savings.

What are some of the emotional surprises of moving abroad?
He shares his experiences dealing with frustrations like language barriers and cultural differences and how those affect day-to-day life.

What should people consider when choosing a place to live abroad?
Justin provides tips on what to look for when selecting a city or country, including things like local amenities, accessibility, and whether the destination is welcoming to expats.

How does the process of buying property abroad work?
He explains the steps involved in purchasing a home overseas, including the role of notaries and legal differences compared to the U.S.

What are the tax implications of living abroad?
The podcast discusses double taxation agreements and how taxes work for expats living in places like Spain.

These topics provide practical insights for anyone considering a move abroad or curious about the lifestyle.

https://amateurtraveler.com/living-abroad/
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Hear about travel to the state of Georgia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Lesli Peterson from 365 Atlanta Traveler about the state where she grew up.
Why should you go to the state of Georgia?
Lesli says, "I love Georgia because I am an outdoor person, and Georgia's got this great city. Everybody talks about Atlanta. Atlanta is fantastic. I'll tell you why I think it's most fantastic. But, it also has, Mountains, so beautiful hiking opportunities, waterfalls great camping, beautiful rivers filled with fish and all that sort of thing."
"And then the beach. So there's the coast. Most people know Savannah, but there's so much more to the coast than just Savannah. In fact, Savannah doesn't even have a beach. But this idea of this big city, mountains, and beach. All in one place is very enticing."
Lesli outlines a diverse itinerary for visiting Georgia, focused on outdoor activities, cultural history, food, and unique attractions. Here's a summary of her recommended itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Atlanta
...
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-georgia/
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Hear about traveling to Lubbock and Amarillo, Texas, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jill Robbins about her favorite part of the state she calls home.
Why should you visit Lubbock and Amarillo?
Jill says, "Amarillo and Lubbock are both smaller cities. I don't like the word off the beaten path or hidden gem, but these are just great little slices of Texas and they both really showcase the unique landscape of Texas."
"Lubbock is in the high plains area. Amarillo is in the panhandle. They're both known for different things, but both have some surprises, things you might not expect to see in a small town. They both have a lot of things to do. Amarillo is more focused on outdoor adventure and Americana that is the old Route 66".
"Lubbock is known for music history and particularly being the birthplace of Buddy Holly. So that is what puts that on the map."
Here's the itinerary that Jill Robbins recommends for visiting Lubbock and Amarillo, Texas:
Day 1: Arrival in Lubbock
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-lubbock-and-amarillo-texas/
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In this first bonus episode of Amateur Traveler, we discuss how and why to travel solo, even if you are not single.
My Guest:
Beth Santos is the founder and CEO of Wanderful, a global community and lifestyle brand that aims to empower and connect women who travel. She is also the author of Wander Woman, in which she shares insights and advice on solo travel, particularly for women.
Beth focuses on encouraging women to explore the world independently and safely. She challenges common misconceptions about solo travel, especially the notion that it is only for single people or those without families. She emphasizes that solo travel can be a valuable and empowering experience for anyone, regardless of their personal circumstances.
In addition to her work with Wonderful, Beth is known for advocating female empowerment in travel and her efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women travelers.
Questions:
In the podcast episode, several key questions and topics related to solo travel are addressed:
What is solo travel, and who is it for?
What are the benefits of solo travel?
How can women travel solo safely?
What practical advice is there for planning a solo trip?
How do you handle loneliness when traveling solo?
What are the challenges and rewards of eating alone while traveling?
How can solo travelers balance planning and spontaneity?
What should you pack for a solo trip?
What can someone learn from solo travel?
How can someone prepare for their first solo trip?

https://amateurtraveler.com/solo-travel/
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Hear about travel to Romania and Northern Hungary as the Amateur Traveler talks to Lisa VanderVeen about her recent Intrepid trip to the area.
Why should you go to Romania?
Lisa says, "Romania is much more than Dracula and Vlad Tepes, though I will confess that was my initial draw to the country. It's got a great diversity of landscape and a multi layered history going way, way back. And then also as recently as the, communist times. Lots of really interesting museums to visit."
"In terms of the topography and the geography, it's just amazing. It's got beautiful towns the Maramures region has a history of weavings and just the colors, red, orange, pink, and blue with the haystacks dotting the rolling hills and the mountains in the backdrop are really stunning."
"The Carpathian Mountains are moody and they're filled with lore and at the same time they feel a little bit like Switzerland. There's great beauty, great history, and wonderful food and wine in Romania."
Here's the itinerary of the trip to Romania and Northern Hungary as described by Lisa:

Budapest, Hungary:
Start the trip in Budapest, Lisa's favorite European city, known for its architecture, the Danube River, the Fisherman's Bastion, and thermal baths.

Eger, Hungary:

Travel by train to Eger, a small town with Baroque architecture, a notable history of resisting the Ottomans, and a rich wine tradition.

Explore the Castle of Eger and the Valley of Beautiful Women, known for its wine cellars.

Visit the Basilica of St. John the Apostle and the Camera Obscura.

...

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-romania/
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Hear about travel to Northeast Florida as the Amateur Traveler talks to Angie Orth from Angie Away about her hometown and the area around it.
Why should someone go to Northeast Florida?
Angie says, "So many reasons. People come to Florida for a lot of different reasons. Mostly theme parks, maybe swamps, alligators, Miami. Those are the things when I meet people around the world that they think Florida is about. Everybody thinks I either live in Miami, in some kind of penthouse, or like at Disney World, in a castle of some sort."
"There's so much to do here, but I would say the majority of it is It's outdoors, it's nature, it's history. We have a ton of interesting history that even natives don't necessarily know about. It's hidden away in the neighborhoods and buried and there's ruins and also layers of history, layers and hundreds of years and wars. To make this area what it is and it's really interesting once you start going to the national park areas and the forts and the ruins."
Angie recommends several must-see locations and activities in Northeastern Florida:
Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island (Nassau County):

Visit Fort Clinch State Park for hiking, biking, and exploring historic forts.

Enjoy the beaches, which are often quiet and uncrowded.

Enjoy one of Amelia Island's charming bed-and-breakfasts.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-northeastern-florida/
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Hear about a road trip at the top of the world in Northern Norway as the Amateur Traveler talks to Torunn Tronsvang from Up Norway about this scenic but remote destination.
Why should you go to Northern Norway?
Torunn says, "There are so many good reasons why one should go to Northern Norway, and I think just as an introduction to Norway, I think it's worth mentioning the trend now of cool cations — skipping the hot and steamy Southern Europe and rather going up North to Norway. to Norway and Northern Norway."
"And Northern Norway, of course, if I were to summarize in one word, regardless of season, I'd say, go there for the light. Because in the summer, you have the midnight sun, which means that you have this magical, radiant light all day and all night. If you go there in winter, you have the northern lights, but you also have arctic lights, so you have color nuances of pink, orange, sometimes turquoise, of course, you have the very green-yellow northern lights on clear and starry nights"
Torunn recommends this itinerary...
https://amateurtraveler.com/road-trip-in-northern-norway/
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Hear about travel to the Maldives in the Indian Ocean as the Amateur Traveler talks to David Brodie from Travel in 10 about his experience in this tropical paradise.
Why should you go to the Maldives?
"I think it's a place that a lot of people have probably seen influencer videos or postcards of the luxury resorts that are there. And it does have. probably some of the most luxurious island resorts you're going to find anywhere in the world. Crystal clear waters, incredible snorkeling, incredible diving, and really at that luxury end of the spectrum, there is an enormous amount of properties on their own islands there, throughout the, about 187 islands that are populated in the island chain, about 160 of those 160 plus that have. Resorts on them."
"I say, really some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world and a whole new sort of aspect to tourism that's developing there with the opening up of the local islands and the local island tourism that's emerging there now as well."
Trip Overview
David's adventure in the Maldives was part of a larger trip that explored multiple countries. After his family returned home from Singapore, David continued on his own, making the Maldives a key highlight of his solo journey. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, the Maldives did not disappoint.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-maldives-2/
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Hear about travel to the region of Castile and León in Spain as the Amateur Traveler talks to Ethan Witthun about the region where he studied abroad.
Day 1: Avila
Morning:

Walk the Murallas (Walls): Start early to walk along the medieval walls of Avila, known for being one of the most complete medieval walls in Spain. Purchase an Avila card online for easy access and an audio guide.

Visit the Cathedral of Avila: Explore this unique cathedral, which is part of the wall, and features distinct red stone in its construction.

Afternoon:

Visit the Basilica of San Vicente: Known for its unique architecture and the shrine of San Vicente.

Lunch at Restaurante Las Murallas: Enjoy a famous steak while sitting outside with views of the walls.

Visit Los Cuatro Postes: Head here during siesta time for a panoramic view of Avila and its walls.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-castile-and-leon-spain/
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Hear about travel to Afghanistan as the Amateur Traveler talks to bigger and adventure tour guide Sibu Szymanowska about this adventurous destination, even for her.
Why should you go to Afghanistan?
Sibu says, "Because we are very influenced by what we see in the media nowadays and it is definitely one of those countries that will end up shocking you. But not Shocking you in a negative way, but shocking you in a very positive way, because there is so much more to the world than what we see on mainstream media, on the news, but by what our governments tell you, and Afghanistan obviously is not an easy destination to navigate, but is it possible?"... Yes.
Cities Visited

Kabul: The capital city with significant historical and cultural sites.

Bamiyan: Known for the destroyed Buddhist statues and diverse landscapes.

Herat: Famous for the Blue Mosque and historical Citadel.

Sites to See

Kabul: Bibi Maru Hill, local mosques, bird market

Bamiyan: Buddhist statue site, Band-e-Amir National Park

Herat: Blue Mosque, Citadel, tile-making workshops

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-afghanistan/
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Hear about travel to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jo Clark from Have Glass, Will Travel about her hometown.
Why should someone go to Myrtle Beach?
Jo says, "Myrtle Beach is on the Grand Strand as we call it. It's on the coast of South Carolina and we are in the midst of 60 miles of gorgeous beach. Nice and wide. No rocks. I mean you can walk for miles and miles. It's just the perfect place. We have great weather. We have everything. we have history, we have music, and of course the beach."
Jo sent us this itinerary:
A WEEK IN MYRTLE BEACH
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-myrtle-beach-south-carolina/
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Hear about travel the Great West Way from London to Bristol as the Amateur Traveler talks to Penny Sadler, who writes Adventures of a Carry-on, about her recent trip to Southwest England.
Penny Sadler is a freelance writer covering wine, food, travel, and lifestyle topics. Her work has appeared in CNBC Travel, Culture Magazine, Matador Network, InsideHook, The Alcohol Professor, Vintner Project, The Cheese Professor, and elsewhere. She’s a Wine, Spirits Education Trust graduate and hosts tastings in her free time.
Why should you go?
Penny says, "The Great West Way is a historic route and basically now a tourist route that goes from London to Bristol. From London to Bristol is about two hours, and along the way, there are charming market towns, old pubs, castle ruins, rolling hills, and lots of farmland, it's very rural Stonehenge, Avebury, there's so much to see."
Penny Sadler's itinerary for the Great West Way offers a scenic and historically rich journey from east to west. Here is a breakdown of the recommended destinations, sorted from east to west:
London

Activities:

Stay at The Mayfair Townhouse.

Join a food tour with Devour Tours, visiting historic pubs and Borough Market.

Explore Southwark Cathedral, Hatton Garden, and Daunt Books for Travellers.

...
https://amateurtraveler.com/the-great-west-way-in-england/
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Hear about travel to India including the Golden Triangle as the Amateur Traveler talks to Nir ben Dov from Israel about his recent trip to the subcontinent.
Why should you go to India?
"I've gone to India many times over the past 20 25 years and it's a place that I've grown to love and love to hate it's a strange place. It's a place with its own character not for everyone But a very intriguing, place not easy, but a great place to visit. It's very different. So I decided this time to take my wife because I know that traveling with my wife, it just has a completely different flair to it. I know my wife likes the colors, the very bright colors, and the chaos in India."
Nir's recommended itinerary for India includes:
Delhi:

Arrive in Delhi.

Spend some time at Connaught Place (CP), a central commercial area.

Chris recommends a number of Historic Places in Delhi to see

...
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-india-2/
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Hear about travel to Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo as the Amateur Traveler talks to Justin Barnes about his recent trip to the Balkans.
Why should someone go to the Balkans?
Justin says, "It's a fascinating intersection of the East and West. It's been shaped by history over many different iterations from the Greeks to the Illyrians to the Byzantines to the Ottomans. And whenever you have a place like that's been shaped by so many different cultures and with such a fascinating history, you see a lot of things you don't really see elsewhere on the globe."
"In addition, it's very inexpensive. The places that I'm going to be talking about, Albania, North Macedonia are much less expensive than even other places in the Balkans, let alone the rest of Europe. The area was much more green and lush than I was expecting. I don't know what I was expecting, but I wasn't expecting beautiful green forests everywhere."
"nd the cities that we went to, pretty much everything was walkable. Aside from the time that it takes to get from one city to the next, once you're actually where you need to be, you can walk around. The weather's good. The people are nice. I always felt safe. There's a lot to offer."
Justin recommends a detailed itinerary for a trip through Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo. Here is the itinerary based on his detailed description:
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Hear about travel to the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna as the Amateur Traveler talks to Keith Jenkins from VelvetEscape.com who keeps returning to this unvisited gem.
Why should you go to Emilia-Romagna?
Keith says, "I think most people will know about the Products that come from there, the food, even the cars, maybe some of the cities, but they would just not associate that with the name Emilia Romagna. And we all know Parma, Bologna but there's so much more to explore. And a large part of the region is actually pretty, off the beaten track, because you have all these little, small, medieval towns. On the plains, also at the hill towns, which are absolutely beautiful. And there's so much to explore. They've got huge forests and lakes and national parks."
Based on Keith Jenkins' detailed description, here's a recommended itinerary for a trip to Emilia-Romagna:
Day 1: Arrival in Parma

Morning: Arrive in Parma. Check into your hotel.

Afternoon: Explore Parma’s city center. Visit the Cathedral and the Baptistery.

Evening: Dine at a local restaurant to enjoy Parma’s famous prosciutto.

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Hear about cruising the waters of Alaska and British Columbia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Susan Portnoy about her recent experience on a Hurtigruten expedition ship.
Why should you do this cruise?
Susan says, "I think it's not going to be for everybody. It is a long journey. It's 18 days. That is music to my heart, but may not be for everyone. But it's also more intrepid. It's not the kind of trip where you've got a lot of boardwalks and stores and places to hang out, which you might do and have in Juneau or Haines. We went to uninhabited islands. One was, for example, St. Matthews, which belongs to Alaska. Very few people know that. And more people have climbed Everest than been on St. Matthews."
Adventure Cruise from Nome, Alaska to Vancouver: A Day-by-Day Journey
Susan Portnoy recently embarked on an unforgettable Hurtigruten expedition cruise from the remote town of Nome, Alaska, to Vancouver, Canada. This 18-day journey was perfect for those seeking adventure, wildlife, and a deeper connection with nature and culture. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of this remarkable voyage:
DAY 1: The Expedition Began
The adventure started in Nome, Alaska. After flying into Anchorage and boarding a charter flight to Nome, everyone embarked on the MS Roald Amundsen. This expedition class ship can hold up to 500 passengers.
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Hear about travel to Newport, Rhode Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Phil Roberson about this city that was one of the 5 largest in the American colonies.
Why should you visit Newport?
Phile says, "There's a lot of reasons to want to come here, but if you love the ocean, if you love the Gilded Age kind of life if you love history, especially, there's just a lot to see in Newport."
Based on Phil's detailed description of Newport, Rhode Island, here's a recommendation for a week-long trip to Newport, including various activities, historical sites, dining options, and outdoor adventures.
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

Morning: Arrive in Newport, and settle into your accommodation.

Afternoon: Take the Daily Newport Trolley Tour for an overview of the city and its major attractions.

Evening: Dine at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen and Bar Restaurant on the wharf.

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Hear about travel to the Jaén province of Andalucia Spain as the Amateur Traveler talks to Molly Sears-Piccavey who lives in Andalucia.
Molly says, “Jaén is a province in western Andalucia that is not really very known or associated with tourism. If we take southern Spain the western side of Andalucia which is Granada, Cordoba, Jaén, and Almería are not as touristic perhaps as the side of Andalucia which is where Malaga and Seville are. Cordoba and Granada are very well visited because of their Muslim architecture such as the mosque or their Alhambra Palace, but Jaén is inland and a little bit further away. And many people don’t manage to discover Jaén and I think Jaén has a lot to offer the visitor.”
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Hear about travel to Northern Morocco as the Amateur Traveler talks to 5 listeners of the show who joined this year's trip to explore the medinas and other features of the country.
The Intrepid Travel North Morocco Adventure tour offers an immersive exploration of Northern Morocco, rich with cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Below is a detailed day-by-day itinerary that highlights the tour's key activities and destinations.
Day 1: Arrival in Casablanca

Activity: Arrival and meet up at the hotel

Highlights:

Arrive a day early to explore Casablanca independently

Visit the old medina, Rick's Café, and the Hassan II Mosque (make reservations in advance for a tour)

Meet the tour group in the hotel lobby at 6 PM for introductions and dinner

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Hear about travel to Southern Morocco as the Amateur Traveler talks to Ady from Hit The Road Music Studio about an area he fell in love with while touring it in a mobile recording studio.
Ady recommends a detailed itinerary for a week-long trip exploring Southern Morocco, starting and ending in Marrakesh. Here’s a breakdown of the suggested trip:
Day 1: Marrakesh
Arrive in Marrakesh and spend the night. Experience the bustling city, try a mix of European and Moroccan cuisine, and get a taste of the local culture.
Day 2: Travel over the Atlas Mountains
Travel from Marrakesh over the Atlas Mountains, experiencing the dramatic change in landscape and climate. Spend the night in Ouarzazate, a city famous for its film studios and proximity to the film location for movies like "Gladiator" and "Star Wars."

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-southern-morocco-2/
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Hear about travel to the country Palau as the Amateur Traveler talks to Randy Rohrer about his recent kayak and scuba safari to this tropical paradise.
Why should you go to Palau?
Randy says, "I think people should go to Palau if you want to experience incredible diverse underwater marine life colorful corals, clear warm water. It's an unspoiled underwater paradise with beautiful sandy beaches, and it also has World War II history. When we were there, we saw colorful corals, fish of all species and sizes, jellyfish, turtles, sharks, squid, manta rays, dolphins, giant clams, and all kinds of exotic plants."
Embarking on a kayak and snorkel safari in Palau in the Western Pacific, Randy Roar from Maryland shares his exhilarating experience, revealing why this remote archipelago is a paradise for adventure and nature lovers.
Arrival and Stay in Koror
Travelers typically fly into Koror, the bustling hub of Palau, via Hawaii and Guam. Randy suggests taking an extra day to acclimate and recover from jet lag upon arrival. In Koror, visitors can explore the Epperson Museum and the Palau Aquarium to gain insights into the local culture and marine biodiversity.
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Hear about travel to Oklahoma as the Amateur Traveler talks to Caitlin from TwinFamilyTravels.com about her home state and its history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Why should you go to Oklahoma?
Caitlin says, "People should visit Oklahoma because it has a unique history and it has a lot of natural beauty. I think it's surprising and unexpected to a lot of people. It has a complicated history in many ways. We'll get into that. But it has seen a lot of revitalization and improvement over the years. There's really been an increase of top-notch museums, and outdoor spaces, and there's really just something for everybody to enjoy here."
Caitlin's one-week itinerary for exploring Oklahoma, particularly centered around Tulsa, includes a variety of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary she recommends:
Day 1: Downtown Tulsa

Start with breakfast at Dilly Diner.

Visit the Center of the Universe, an acoustic anomaly.

Explore the Woody Guthrie Center, dedicated to the famous musician.

Check out the Bob Dylan Center, showcasing Dylan’s life and work.

Tour the Church Studio, known for its musical history.

Learn about the history of the Greenwood District, including a visit to the Greenwood Rising Museum.

Dinner at Fixin's Soul Kitchen.

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Hear about travel to Newfoundland and Labrador as the Amateur Traveler talks to Bri Mitchell from travelingmitch.com based on the summer they spent in this less visited Canadian province.
Why should you go to Newfoundland and Labrador?
Bri says, "It is a very vast, wide, and open province. It has extremely warm people very enticing outdoor adventures really incredible opportunities to get out onto the water and explore different parts of the Atlantic Ocean. And specifically today, I want to talk a little bit about Western Newfoundland and Labrador, so starting in the western coast and making your way up towards Labrador."
"It's larger than many countries. I think I was looking up It's a square kilometer area, and it's larger than Japan, Germany, and Finland. A lot of people think of Eastern Canada as being small and little towns and not a lot to explore. But when you think about its size, Newfoundland and Labrador as a province is very expansive. So it's a great place to go if you enjoy a road trip if you enjoy taking in nature. Many kilometers in a day, which this trip will entail and it's just a really wonderful place to get outside and really embrace nature."
Bri recommends a comprehensive seven-day itinerary for exploring Newfoundland and Labrador, focusing primarily on Western Newfoundland and briefly touching upon Labrador. Here's the itinerary she suggests:

Day 1: Arrival at Deer Lake

Fly into Deer Lake Regional Airport, rent a car, and drive to Gros Morne National Park.

Stay in Woody Point, a small town in Gros Morne, and dine at local restaurants like the Backroom Cafe or Merchant Warehouse.

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-newfoundland-and-labrador/
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Hear about things to do when you travel to the Brittany region of France as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kristin Montgomery from GrowingGlobalCitizens.com about this less-touristed corner of the country.
Kristin says, “Brittany is located in northwestern France. It used to be a Duchy but in the 1500s it was incorporated as part of France, basically taken over against their will so there is still a very strong regional identity. There are some people who still identify as being Breton before they’re French. Brittany is a place that is not usually on a lot of traveler’s lists. If you are going to head to France you think of Paris. You think of southern France, Province, or Nice, but there are a lot of really great things to see in Brittany.”

“There are beautiful beaches first of all and they’re sand beaches unlike the rocky beaches you find down south. If you are traveling with family it is a great place to visit because it is a little less touristy, less crowded. There are more things to do that are in small towns out in the country. It has this Celtic identity that really is not found in any other place in France. You are going to be hearing things like bagpipes. You are going to be seeing traditional dancing, even some of the Breton language. I found that people here were very very friendly which is something that in other parts of France, and I think of Paris, they don’t have a reputation for being very friendly. If you are someone who is into history or likes myths and legends, Brittany has a lot of that too.”
...
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Hear about travel to Central Portugal as the Amateur Traveler talks to Stephanie Lambert from eurotravelsbydesign.com about this too often overlooked region.

Why should you go to Central Portugal?

Stephanie says, "It's safe, it's beautiful, it's a culturally rich history. I feel like it's been underrated for some years. It's getting more popular now, but it's been overshadowed by Spain for a while, and I think, it deserves just as much love. It has gorgeous architecture, Fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, warm and inviting people. I think the pastéis de nata are a reason to go, enough on their own. They're so delicious."

Based on Stephanie's detailed and passionate recount of her family's journey through Central Portugal, here's a suggested itinerary to explore this enchanting region, drawing from the highlights and personal experiences she shared:

Day 1-4: Coimbra
Day 1: Explore Coimbra
Start with a visit to the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its Baroque library and the unique presence of bats that protect the books.
Don't miss the São Miguel Chapel within the university, adorned with blue and white tiles and gold leaf.
Spend some time at the Botanical Gardens for a peaceful retreat.
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Hear about travel to Mexico City as the Amateur Traveler talks to Ashlea Russell from SheRoamsAbout.com about the unique and vibrant capital of Mexico.
Why should you go to Mexico City?
Ashlea says, "I think Mexico City is It's a very unique city people always say there's so much to do, there's so much architecture, and history, but what I think is interesting about it is, and what people don't expect, is that it's a fusion between the European opulence that you would get in cities like Paris and London, with all of the culture and flavor that comes with Latin America. There is so much to do and see, and there really is something for everyone."
Ashlea recommends a unique itinerary for visiting Mexico City, focusing on experiences off the beaten path. She highlights a combination of lesser-known attractions and cultural experiences that showcase the city's rich history, vibrant food scene, and architectural marvels. Key recommendations include:
Market Tour, Food Tasting, and Cooking Class: Ashlea suggests starting with a tour that offers an immersive experience of Mexico City's local markets. This isn't just any market tour; it includes food tastings and a cooking class, providing a deep dive into the local cuisine and shopping culture. The tour begins near the Zocalo, leading to the Mercado Abelardo L. Rodriguez, a market known for its murals and unique history.
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Hear about tourist spots in Mindanao, the southernmost island in the Philippines, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Lonely Planet guidebook author Michael Grosberg and co-founder of LikeLocal.io about his many trips to Mindanao.
Why should you go to Mindanao?
Michael says, "Most people that go to Mindanao these days go directly to the island of Siargao, which is one of the hottest, most happening places in all the Philippines for people to travel to. We'll get to that and it's deservedly popular. However, there's so much more to see in Mindanao. Mindanao has one of the largest cities in the Philippines the city of Davao. Davao is in the far south of Mindanao. It's got a cosmopolitan culture, amazing, wonderful food. The mountains and the islands around Davao are incredible. You can spend a month there. The highest peak in the Philippines, Mount Apo, which you can climb, and people do is only a couple hours or so from Davao."
"There are endless coastlines to explore. There is indigenous culture. There are surfing spots. The city of Zamboanga, also has its own unique culture, a combination of Muslim influence, Malaysian, and Spanish cuisine. The whole coastline, the north, the east, really all over, are dotted with incredible beaches, and a lot of them are not really traveled to by foreigners, but Filipinos love to travel, and so Filipinos that go to Mindanao go to all these places."
For a one-week itinerary, Michael recommends a visit to Cagayan de Oro, Camiguin, and Siargao.
...
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Hear about travel to Reunion Island, an outpost of France in the Indian Ocean as the Amateur Traveler talks to Collin McFadden about his recent trip to this adventure travel paradise.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-reunion-island/
Why should you travel to Reunion Island?
Colin says:
"Reunion is, I would say, first off, an adventure destination. It is not a place to go for beaches and just hanging out mostly because they don't have beaches per se, there are a few, but it is a volcano, very much like the Hawaiian Islands. It is a place to go for hiking, biking, climbing, canyoning, paragliding you name it, you will find folks doing it on Reunion Island."
"I would say also it is a really interesting cultural mix in that it is France. It's not a colony of France. It is a district of France and was uninhabited prior to the French showing up and then reflects 18th, 19th, and 20th century French history and French trading patterns. It's a real mix of French vibes, East African vibes, and South Asian vibes."
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Hear about travel by Train from Brisbane to Adelaide as the Amateur Traveler talks to Pamela and Gary Baker about the Great Southern and the other train trips from Journey Beyond.

https://amateurtraveler.com/train-from-brisbane-to-adelaide/

The Great Southern is one of three iconic train rides in Australia offered by Journey Beyond. It travels from Brisbane to Adelaide or vice versa, offering a scenic journey along the southeast coast. The train ride provides a luxurious experience with well-attended staff, excellent food, and curated off-train excursions. Each cabin comes with an ensuite bathroom and fold-down beds, ensuring comfort throughout the journey.

The train stops at various destinations along the route, allowing passengers to explore different parts of the country. Excursions include visits to places like Coffs Harbor, Hunter Valley, Melbourne, and more. Passengers have the option to choose from a variety of activities such as wine tasting, dolphin watching, exploring historical sites, and enjoying local cuisine.

The Great Southern offers a unique opportunity to see the beauty of Australia's east coast in a relaxed and luxurious setting. With stunning scenery, engaging off-train excursions, and excellent service, it's a memorable way to experience the country's diverse landscapes and culture.

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Hear about a 7-day itinerary for the island of Kyushu, Japan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Adeline Kuroki, the owner of Saver and Soak travel company about her adopted home in southern Japan.
https://amateurtraveler.com/kyushu-itinerary-7-days/
Why should you go to Kyushu?
Adeline says, "I think there's so many things to do there. Also, it's a great way to get off the beaten path away from a lot of other tourists. Japan. For good reason, it's definitely very popular. It's easy to fly into Tokyo and so many people want to go and visit Kyoto, Osaka, and a lot of those really popular areas that are really starting to suffer from a lot of overtourism. There's so many beautiful places that you can go to in other parts of Japan that are just as beautiful and a lot more off the beaten path. And in a lot of ways, I think it's a lot more welcoming to visitors because there are a lot fewer visitors."
Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka

Arrive in Fukuoka, either by bullet train or flight.

Explore Yusentei Park and enjoy a traditional bowl of matcha tea at the tea house.

Wander through Nishijin Shotengai, a pedestrian street filled with traditional shops and restaurants.

Sample local dishes such as Tonkotsu ramen and fresh seafood, including the famous twitching squid.

Connect with English speakers at the Cheers Bar

Overnight in Fukuoka.

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Hear about travel to Northern Tasmania as the Amateur Traveler talks to Paula Barnes from trulyexpattravel.com about an unexpected visit to this popular region.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-northern-tasmania/
Why should you go to Northern Tasmania?
Paula says, "Firstly, it's because it's now classed as 1 of the 50 cities that is the City of Gastronomy. Australia has 2. We have 1 in Bendigo but we also now have 1 in Launceston and it's a foodie's paradise. It's also an amazing landscape and it's an adventure area. I thought this part of the world had Queenstown in New Zealand, but I'm telling you now, I think Queenstown needs to move over because I think this part of the world has as many amazing adventure things to do. We don't have bungee jumping, but we have everything else."
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Launceston Exploration and Culinary Delights

Morning: Arrive in Launceston by flying from Hobart, driving from Hobart, or driving from Devonport and taking the ferry. Start your day at the Launceston Harvest Market to indulge in local produce and culinary delights. If it's not a Saturday, explore the cafes in Launceston, such as Tattler Lane by Sweet Brew, known for its excellent coffee and breakfast offerings.

Midday: Visit the Japanese monkeys in the park, a unique attraction gifted by Launceston's sister city, Aikido, in Japan. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and explore its historical significance.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in history at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing artifacts and stories of the region's past.

Evening: Enjoy pre-dinner drinks at Bar Urbane, overlooking the scenic Tamar River, followed by a delightful Asian fusion dinner at Mudbar, known for its seafood and eclectic flavors.

Accommodation: Choose between Big 4 Caravan Park for a budget-friendly option with self-catering facilities or Pepper's Seaport Hotel or Florance Launceston for a more luxurious stay with convenient car parking.
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Hear about travel to Poland as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sharon Kurtz from sharonkkurtz.com about her recent trip exploring the culture and food of Warsaw, Krakow, and Poznan.
show notes - https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-poland-warsaw-krakow-and-poznan
Sharon says, "It is a beautiful country. It's a blend of history that goes back to the tenth century. And then it has sad history, World War II, and then they were occupied by the Soviets and got their independence in 1989. And some people seem to have this feeling that they're gray and it's sad and dark, and nothing could be further from the truth. It's vibrant and it's really an exciting place to go in Central Europe."
Here's a recommended itinerary for visiting Warsaw, Krakow, and Poznan in Poland:
Day 1-3: Warsaw
• Start your trip in Warsaw, the capital city of Poland. • Explore the reconstructed Old Town Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which showcases the resilience of the Polish people after World War II. • Visit the Old Town Square fountain with the mermaid sculpture, symbolizing strength and protection. • Explore the Chopin Museum and enjoy a classical concert in Łazienki Park. • Dive into Warsaw's history with visits to the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Museum of the History of Polish Jews. • Enjoy the vibrant modern cityscape, including skyscrapers and bustling city life.
Accommodation in Warsaw: Consider staying at Hotel Verte, a Marriott property with a rich history, a palace reconstructed after World War II.
Day 4-6: Krakow
• Take a 2-hour train ride to Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland. • Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town, filled with well-preserved medieval architecture. • Explore Kazimierz's historic Jewish quarter, known for its synagogues, cemeteries, and vibrant atmosphere. • Visit Saint Mary's Basilica and experience the haunting trumpet call played from its tower. • Discover the majestic Wawel Castle and its Gothic cathedral. • Delve into Krakow's poignant history with a visit to Schindler's Factory and the remnants of the Jewish ghetto. • Consider a one-day Auschwitz and Krakow Salt Mines tour.
Accommodation in Krakow: Consider staying in centrally located accommodations to explore the city's attractions easily.
Day 7-9: Poznan
• Travel to Poznan, the oldest city in Poland, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. • Explore the colorful Old Town Square and witness the daily spectacle of mechanical billy goats butting heads at noon. • Visit Cathedral Island to see the oldest church in Poland and the graves of early rulers. • Experience the interactive Enigma Museum, showcasing Poland's contributions to World War II code-breaking efforts. • Indulge in Poznan's culinary delights, including the famous Saint Martin's croissant with its unique legend. • Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Poznan's nightlife and cultural offerings.
Accommodation in Poznan: Choose accommodations near the Old Town Square to immerse yourself in the city's historic charm.
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Hear about a week-long road trip from Dublin to Cork through southeastern Ireland as the Amateur Traveler talks to Amber Hagerty from AmberEverywhere.com about this out-of-the-way corner of Ireland.
Day 1: Dublin to Wicklow

Morning: Arrive in Dublin and explore the city. Visit Bar 1661 for the best Irish coffee and Trinity College to admire the campus.

Afternoon: Indulge in some delicious ice cream at Murphy's on Wicklow Street in Temple Bar.

Evening: Rent a car and drive south to Bray. Enjoy a stroll along the promenade, have dinner at a local restaurant like Daata, and consider doing the cliff walk to Greystones for breathtaking views.

...

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Hear about a German road trip to 9 UNESCO Cities as the Amateur Traveler talks to Renee Hannes from dreamplanexperience.com about her exploration of the land of her ancestors.
https://amateurtraveler.com/germany-road-trip-to-9-unesco-cities/
Renee says, "I just returned from living in Berlin for 3 months. So had an opportunity to make a little bit of a longer trip and was there with my husband and dog and lived in Berlin and I had a good chance to be able to see the city and lots of other places around it. I had this long list of places on my to-do list. I think like most travelers, I become very quickly overwhelmed with how many places I wanted to see. So I thought why not think about what are those places that are worthy of a visit?"
"That's where I came upon thinking about it from a UNESCO perspective and UNESCO sites are always worthy places to visit special places to visit in terms of the history and the moments in history that they help create and shape the architecture that usually is pretty spectacular to be able to see from, nature and the landscapes that we want to protect and then also it gives us really good insights into the culture. So after I had that long list, I went back and thought, what is close to Berlin? And that's how I was able to stumble on these 9 destinations."
City 1: Berlin UNESCO Site: Museum Island: Spend the first day exploring Museum Island, home to five world-class museums. Delve into history, art, and archaeology at the Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and the famous Pergamon Museum (when it reopens).

City 2: Potsdam (Day Trip from Berlin) UNESCO Site: Sans Souci Palace and Park: Explore the stunning Sans Souci Palace, a masterpiece of Rococo architecture, surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains, and other palaces.

Optional Activities: Visit the Dutch Quarter and the historic center of Potsdam.

City 3: Wittenberg (Short Train Ride from Berlin) UNESCO Site: Martin Luther's 95 Theses Site: Visit the place where Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door, sparking the Protestant Reformation.

City Exploration: Wander through the charming streets of Wittenberg's Old Town.
If possible, visit the city in June for the Luther Wedding celebration.

City 4: Quedlinburg UNESCO Site: Old Town with Half-Timbered Houses: Immerse yourself in the enchanting medieval atmosphere of Quedlinburg's Old Town, characterized by over 1300 half-timbered houses.

Activities: Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the town from the castle.
Explore the Quedlinburg Cathedral and the Culture Church.
Visit museums showcasing the town's history and heritage.

City 5: Goslar (Day Trip from Quedlinburg) UNESCO Sites: Imperial Palace (Kaiserpfalz): Discover the grandeur of the Imperial Palace overlooking Goslar.

Optional Activities: Take a guided tour of the Rammelsberg mine, gaining insights into a thousand years of mining history.
Explore the old town with its half-timbered houses and churches.
Take a ride on a train through the Harz Mountains on the Harz Railway.

City 6: Hamburg Highlights: Warehouse District (Speicherstadt): Explore the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt, Hamburg's historic warehouse district. Marvel at the red brick buildings lining the canals, reminiscent of the city's trading past.
Hamburg City Center: Stroll through the city center, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and visit landmarks like St. Michael's Church and the Rathaus (City Hall).

City 7: Lubeck (Day Trip from Hamburg) UNESCO Site: Holstentor Gate: Visit the iconic Holstentor Gate, the entrance to Lubeck's Old Town, representing the city's historical significance as a trading hub.
Exploring Beyond Main Streets: Wander off the main streets to discover elegant homes reflecting the wealth of medieval merchants. Explore St. Mary's Church and other architectural gems.
Marzipan Delights: Visit the Niederegger marzipan shop to indulge in marzipan treats and learn about the city's marzipan-making history.

Cities 8 and 9: Wismar and Stralsund UNESCO Sites: Wismar: Explore the charming town of Wismar on the Baltic Sea, known for its fortified walls, historic market square, and lively harbor atmosphere.
Stralsund: Visit Stralsund, another Baltic Sea gem, with a large public square featuring diverse architectural styles. Explore St. Nicholas Church and enjoy seafood at the harbor.

Return to Berlin A 9-city UNESCO road trip through Germany offers a blend of historical exploration, architectural marvels, and scenic beauty.
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Hear about travel to Zaragoza as the Amateur Traveler talks to Cat Driver about this historic but under-visited region of Spain.
https://amateurtraveler.com/things-to-do-in-zaragoza-spain/
Cat says, "Every time I have said to people that I lived in Spain and they asked me where and I say Zaragoza, I usually just get a blank stare and then I have to explain it. Zaragoza is between Barcelona and Madrid almost exactly. I was teaching English there. I decided on Zaragoza because it had everything I wanted. It was very local, not much English so I'd be forced to learn Spanish. The transportation connections are great, and it has a really low cost of living. So I thought it was the perfect place to go and teach English and that's what drew me there."
"I think other people should go to Zaragoza because it is wonderful. It is a really underrated part of Spain. It doesn't see many North American visitors. I don't really know why because it's so close to Barcelona and Madrid and that's where everybody goes. But Saragossa is really an undiscovered gem. It's a really beautiful place to experience a real Spanish local life. It has all of the history that people are looking for when they go to Spain. It's steeped in Roman, Muslim, and Christian history and also has a really thriving modern art and culture scene. It's also really fabulous for the outdoors. Anybody who likes hiking, and cycling and skiing, it's a wonderful place to base yourself to explore the areas around Zaragoza that would offer that."
Cat starts us in the historic center of Zaragoza in the Plaza del Pilar that holds both of Zaragoza's co-cathedrals. The Virgin of the pillar is the patron saint of Zaragoza and everything revolves around her. In October the plaza and streets fill with night parades and flower offerings during the Fiestas del Pilar. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is the most photographed building in the city with its 4 bell towers that make it look as much like a mosque as a cathedral. The interior has Goya masterpieces in situ.
The Mudéjar architecture of Aragon with its moorish influence has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Buildings that are included in that designation in Zaragoza include: the Mudéjar remains of the Palace of Aljafería Zaragoza, the Tower and Parish church of San Pablo Zaragoza, and the Apse, parish and dome of La Seo (the other cathedral).
The origins of the town go back to Roman times, which it was known as Caesaraugusta. There is a Roman history museum of the old forum near the Plaza del Pilar as well as an old Roman Amphitheater. The stature of Caesar Augustus in front of the city market was a gift from Franco.
Cat recommends a number of museums in the city including the Goya Museum, the Museo Pablo Gargallo, the IAACC Pablo Serrano, the CaixaForum Zaragoza, the Zaragoza Museum, and the Alma Mater Museum. For those less inclined to visit museums you might check out a Chocopass from the local tourism board instead.
We talk about a number of side trips from the city including the city of Tarazona and the Monasterio de Piedra. Tarazona is the place to go for more Mudéjar architecture, Jewish history and... perhaps ironically... Spanish ham. The Monasterio de Piedra which is an old monastery where the monks made chocolate and wine. The monastery is built in a park with waterfalls.
For hiking Cat recommends the village of Agüero which is an old village surrounded by rock formations.
If you are looking for a rich, beautiful part of Spain that doesn't get enough love... can we recommend Zaragoza and Aragon?

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Hear about travel to the island nation of Malta as Chris Christensen, the Amateur Traveler, tells about a recent week-long trip to the island at the center of the Mediterranean Sea.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-island-of-malta/
Why should you visit Malta?
Malta is an amazing island country with a rich history and spectacular scenery.
The one-week itinerary for Malta includes the following highlights:
Sunday:

Take a harbor cruise around Valletta.

Pick up a 7-day bus pass, if you are getting around by public transportation

Explore Valletta a UNESCO city, and visit the Upper Barrakka

Monday:

Take a guided tour of Valletta Underground, exploring where the residents of Valletta took shelter from WWII bombing

Visit St John’s Co-cathedral.

Lunch in Birgu

Visit Mdina, the old capital, also known as the "silent city."

Tuesday:

See the colorful Marsaxlokk harbor and Għar Dalam Cave with its pigmy elephant and hippo skeletons

Visit Ħal Tarxien, an open-air megalithic temple site.

Visit Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a prehistoric underground necropolis and UNESCO site.

Explore Fort Saint Angelo in Birgu.

Wednesday:

Visit Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, UNESCO megalithic temple sites.

Explore the Blue Grotto (weather-dependent).

Visit Mdina, including the cathedral

Stop at a museum dedicated to the Roman Villa in Rabat.

Explore St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat.

Thursday:

Travel to Gozo, and stay in Victoria.

Visit Ggantija Temples, another UNESCO site and megalithic temple.

Explore Citadella fortress in Victoria.

Have dinner in St George's Square

Friday:

Visit San Blas Tower and Ramla Beach in Gozo.

Return to Malta in the afternoon.

Saturday:

Move to Fortellessa and explore Valletta.

Visit Upper Barrakka, Lower Barrakka, and Fort St Elmo.

Relax in the city and soak in the atmosphere.

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Hear about travel to Croatia's Istrian Peninsula as the Amateur Traveler talks to Olivia from inspiredbycroatia.com about her adopted country.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-croatias-istrian-peninsula/
Why should you go to the Istrian Peninsula?
Olivia says, "I think that Istria is still a little bit underrated. Personally, I like to Talk about it as this like a fairytale like region. It has quite a strong Italian heritage somewhat reminiscent of Tuscany, but with a Croatian flair It's filled with these emerald green hills dotted with medieval villages throughout the food there is absolutely Fantastic."
"If you're a foodie you want to go to Istria, their home to lots of truffles, so you'll find truffles in a lot of the dishes there. And then in addition to the green interior, we have the rugged coastline rocky coastline, but beautiful blue pristine water and beaches, and it really just has the best of both worlds."
Olivia recommends this itinerary:
Day 1: Pula

Explore Pula, the largest city in Istria.

Visit the Roman Arena, a well-preserved amphitheater.

Explore other historic sites like the Temple of Augustus and the ancient Roman Forum.

Visit the Museum of Olive Oil and the castle.

Drive to Verudela Peninsula for a swim in the sea and explore the rocky coastline.

Optional: Attend the Pula Film Festival which is held in July.

Day 2: Fažana and Brioni National Park

Drive to Fažana, a village 15 minutes north of Pula.

Take a day trip to Brijuni National Park, an archipelago with untouched nature and Roman ruins.

Explore the islands, including a tourist train ride and optional activities like renting a golf cart or bike, or driving Tito's car.

Return to Fažana for a meal at Alla Beccaccia, a family-run restaurant.

Day 3: Rovinj

Head north to Rovinj, a charming fishing village.

Explore the town, visit the church, and walk down Grisea Street.

Visit Mediterraneo Bar for a seaside cafe experience.

Day 4: Visit the Limfjord

Take a boat ride on the Limfjord

Head to Bale for a visit to local wineries.

Day 5: Porič and Umag

Drive to Porič, a seaside town popular among European travelers.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and stroll down the main Roman street.

Spend the afternoon walking along the Riviera for swimming.

Head further north to Umag, known for the Croatia Open UMAG tennis tournament.

Optional: Explore Savudrija and visit the oldest lighthouse.

Day 6: Green Istria - Motovun, Grožnjan, Momjan

Visit Motovun, a hilltop town known for truffles.

Explore the town, visit Truba Jazz and Wine Bar, and possibly attend the Motovon Summer Film Festival.

Head to Grožnjan, a charming town known for artists and musicians.

Explore the cobblestone streets and visit Truba Jazz and Wine Bar.

End the day in Momjan at Kono Bastari Podrum for dinner and Kozlovich Winery for wine tasting.

Day 7: Buzet, Truffle Tasting, and Hum

Visit Buzet and tour the Aura Distillery for brandies, liqueurs, and gin tasting.

Head to Karlić Tartufi for truffle tasting, a truffle hunting experience, and a cooking demonstration.

Optional: Stop at Kotli for waterfalls and small pools.

Visit the "smallest town in the world", Hum.

Enjoy your trip to Istria!
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Hear about travel to Tokyo as the Amateur Traveler talks to Matthew Jasek from The Nerd Tourist about one of his favorite, if nerdy, cities.
https://amateurtraveler.com/otaku-guide-to-tokyo-japan/
Day 1: Arrival and Food Tour

Afternoon: Arrive in Tokyo and check into your hotel.

Evening: Join a food tour or find a local guide to visit a traditional Japanese restaurant. Explore the dining culture with the help of a guide who can navigate through nuances.

Day 2: Tsukiji Outer Market and Senso-ji

Morning: Visit Tsukiji Outer Market for a variety of food stalls. Try grilled eel and other local delicacies.

Afternoon: Explore Senso-ji Temple. Take part in the tradition of shaking a metal container to get a fortune. Enjoy more street food around the area.

Evening: Choose between visiting Odaiba for futuristic buildings and the Unicorn Gundam statue or exploring Shimokitazawa, a hip neighborhood known for vintage shops and live music.

Day 3: Shibuya Scramble, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine

Morning: Experience the famous Shibuya Scramble and visit the statue of Hachiko. Head to Harajuku Station.

Afternoon: Explore Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street in Harajuku. Enjoy crepes, Shiba Inu Cafe, and unique latte art at Cafe Reissue.

Evening: Choose between visiting Ikebukuro for anime-related attractions or Nakano Broadway for traditional shopping and unique ramen.

Day 4: Nerd Day

Option 1: Take a guided tour of Akihabara, the hub of nerd culture, exploring anime shops and arcades.

Option 2: Visit real-life anime locations using online resources or guided tours. Consider Studio Ghibli Museum, Totoro no Mori, or Shirohige Cream Puff Factory.

Evening: Experience Tokyo’s nightlife with activities like Mari Car go-karting or trying Monjayaki in Monja Street.

Day 5: Kamakura Trip

Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura

Explore Zeniarai Benten Shrine and wash your money.

Visit Hokokuji Temple Bamboo Forest Temple, and wander through the bamboo forest.

Optionally, pay extra to drink tea at the little tea house in the back.

Explore Kamakura’s main attractions like the Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine.

If in April, consider attending the Kamakura Festival (second to the third weekend).

If in September (14th to 16th), experience Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai Festival with horseback archery.

Visit the grave site of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first Shogun.

Visit Jufuku-ji Temple, the grave of Hojo no Masako (the Nun Shogun).

Day 6: Enoshima Island Trip

Travel to Fujiwara Station and take the Enoshima Electric Railway to the Shirahata Shrine.

Visit Shirahata Shrine dedicated to Minamoto no Yoshitsune.

Board the Enoshima Electric Railway and ride to Enoshima Island.

Explore the long road leading to sea caves, shops, and the Dragon Bell.

Visit the botanical garden with the sea candle lighthouse.

Try the local delicacy Shirasu Don at one of the restaurants.

Visit the Enoshima Shrine complex

Bonus Day:
Consider non-nerdy activities:

Attend a tea ceremony.

Rent a kimono and experience a traditional tea ceremony.

Attend a sumo match or witness a sumo practice.

Catch a baseball game.

Take a vintage tram to Gotokuji, the temple that invented the beckoning cat statue.

Join a tattoo-friendly Tokyo bathhouse tour.

Tips:

Stay in Akihabara for a central location.

Use apps like the Visit Japan app for customs information, TableCheck for reservations, and Line for communication.

Prepare for a lot of walking.

There is always so much to see in and near Tokyo, for nerds and non-nerds alike.
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Hear about travel to the Exumas in the Bahamas as the Amateur Traveler talks to Tessie from TravelingTessie.com about these sundrenched islands she has fallen in love with.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-exumas-bahamas/
Why should someone go to the Exumas?
Tessie says, "It's a perfect destination if obviously, you enjoy the beach. But the beaches, they're very unique because they're really unspoiled. And there's not a lot of crowds. So if someone's interested in that, it's a really great destination for that, but it's also great for people with kids, for bachelorette couples, and friend groups that are looking for a place to get away from it all. I feel like, Exumas is truly a hidden gem."
Day 1: Arrival in Georgetown

Fly into Georgetown, Exumas.

Check into Paradise Bay Hotel

Relax on the beach, explore the hotel's surroundings, and get familiar with the area.

Day 2: Full-Day Boat Tour

Book a full-day boat tour departing from Georgetown.

Visit Thunderball Grotto for snorkeling (film location of a James Bond movie).

Optional: Swim with nurse sharks at Compass Cay Marina.

Visit Pig Island for a unique experience of swimming with pigs.

Lunch is included in the tour.

Explore beautiful sandbars, some of which were featured in Pirates of the Caribbean.

Day 3: Explore Georgetown and Stocking Island

Explore Georgetown, visit the straw market, and shop for local souvenirs.

Take a ferry to Stocking Island.

Spend the day at Chat 'n' Chill beach bar, known for its fresh conch salad and stingrays.

Day 4: Little Exuma Beach Day

Rent a car and drive to Little Exuma.

Explore Pretty Molly Beach, Forbes Hill Beach, and Tropic of Cancer Beach.

Visit Exuma Point Beach at low tide.

Take an eco-tour at Mariah Harbor K National Park to learn about and witness marine life.

Day 5: ATV Tour and Sea Turtle Encounter

Morning ATV tour exploring the northwestern part of Great Exuma.

Stops at Cocoa Plum Beach, Exuma Point, and the historical site of Pompeii.

Lunch.

Afternoon visit to Hooper's Bay Beach for swimming and snorkeling with wild sea turtles.

Day 6: Boat Rental and Exploration in Elizabeth Harbor

Rent a boat from Georgetown and explore Elizabeth Harbor.

Discover an underwater cave, visit Starfish Beach, and snorkel at a coral reef.

Explore Sand Dollar Beach.

Return to Georgetown.

Day 7: Return to Exuma Point Beach

Visit Exuma Point Beach again, especially if you missed it at low tide.

Relax and unwind before departing.

Depart for home.

If you are looking for remote beaches and a unique experience with swimming pigs then the Exumas are worth your consideration.

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Hear about travel to Gujarat, India as the Amateur Traveler talks again to James Schomburgk about festivals, temples, and Asiatic lions.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-gujarat/
James says, "Gujarat is in the far western central of northern India. Pakistan is its western border. And the southern border is the Arabian Sea. It's actually close to some of the big-hitting states in terms of tourism, but it's a very different geographically. It's very different feel to the rest of India. If you're looking for something that's remote. If you're looking for something that is you'll be, you'll be certainly be treated like royalty, because everybody will be looking at you bizarrely because they rarely see any tourists. The beauty of it is I think, for me, the wildlife, the wildlife is was quite mind blowing. And I know I've spoken to so many people in India, a lot of people associate India with tigers, but what they have in Gujarat is lions, leopards, hyena, and wolf, animals that people would be a bit surprised that are in India. It was the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi so it's also got a lot of history."
James starts us in the city of Bhavnagar. He stayed in the Nilambag Palace with the current Maharaja. Half the palace has been turned into a hotel.
He takes us then to one of the most holy sites in Jainism at Shatrunjaya. You can climb the 3,300 steps past a number of temples to a set of ornate temples at the top that are 900 years old. The view from the top of the mountain is also spectacular. If you don't have the fitness to climb the steps you can get carried up on a litter.
From there James directs us to Sasan Gir National Park where you can see the last remaining Asiatic Lions in India. The Asiatic Lion is a close cousin of the African Lion. In addition to lions, they saw the nilgai which are the largest Asian antelope, and the dangerous mugger crocodile. Gir National Park is closed from 16 June to 15 October every year.
The next stop is Junagadh which is known for its old fort (the name literally translates to "Old Fort"). There are also some spectacular mausoleums in Junagadh which were built in the late 1800s in an Indo-Islamic style. They have elaborate carvings and minarets with exterior spiral staircases. But the most memorable part of James' visit to Junagadh was the festival of Bhavnath Mela where throngs of people would climb the nearby holy hill of Girnar wearing their best sari... or in the case of some Naga (holy men) wearing nothing at all.
Somnath temple is a sacred Hindu site that has been built and rebuilt over the centuries after it fell victim to invading Muslim armies from the West.
Gujarat cuisine is vegetarian and you won't find alcohol either for religious regions so James and his traveling companion enjoyed a visit to the tiny state of Diu which used to be a Portuguese possession. Here you could see the blending of the Indian and Portuguese cultures... and get a cheap beer. They enjoyed a visit to a fishing village and a pick-up game of cricket with locals.
The last stop on our itinerary is Blackbuck National Park for more wildlife viewing including the eponymous Blackbuck antelope, striped hyena, and Indian wolf. James highly recommends a stay in the luxurious Blackbuck Safari Lodge.
After you have seen the well-known sites of India, explore some of its hidden gems like Gujarat.
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Hear about driving the Selkirk Loop in Washington State, Idaho, and British Columbia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Anthony and Jodie St. Clair from learnersandmakers.com about their favorite road trip.
https://amateurtraveler.com/driving-the-selkirk-loop/
Why should you drive the Selkirk Loop?
Anthony and Jodie say, "It is just the most epic, gorgeous views of nature, I think. And it's very accessible. I (Jodie) am an amputee, and so I'm always looking for ways to easily access nature. It felt like we were out in the middle of these beautiful spaces while I didn't have to do a ten-mile hike to do it. "
"We've driven things like the Blue Ridge Parkway in, Virginia, North Carolina, we've driven highway one in California. We've RV'd across the entire USA. The Selkirk loop holds its own with any of those scenic drives."
Leg 1: Spokane, Washington to Newport, Washington
The easiest place to access the Selkirk Loop is from Spokane, Washington. Stretch your legs in Newport, a small town at the beginning of the Selkirk Loop. Check out the visitor center, museum, and the giant paddle wheel. Don't miss the county museum, showcasing the timber industry and the region's history.
Leg 2: Newport to Sandpoint, Idaho
Head south to Sandpoint, Idaho, situated on Lake Pend Oreille. Enjoy water activities, and boat tours, and explore the surrounding mountains. The lake is the star here, and various public beach areas exist. Sandpoint offers a mix of outdoor adventures and charming small-town vibes.
Leg 3: Sandpoint to Creston, British Columbia
Cross the border into Canada and explore Creston. Visit an organic dairy farm, sample cheese, and experience the meshing of organic practices with technology. Check out the Kootenay Columbia Discovery Center for nature exploration and hands-on experiences.
Leg 4: Creston to Kootenay Bay (Ferry) to Kaslo
Take the free ferry from Kootenay Bay to experience the Kaslo area. Explore artisan workshops in Crawford Bay and soak in the town's history and nature. Kaslo offers a mix of small-town charm, outdoor activities, and a chance to visit the SS Moyie, a restored paddle-wheeler turned museum.
Leg 5: Kaslo to Castlegar
Head south to Castlegar, known for its outdoor art, sculpture garden, and Zuckerberg Island. Walk across a suspension bridge, explore hiking trails, and enjoy the mix of nature and town life. Learn about the Doukhobors' history and their sustainable farming practices.
Leg 6: Castlegar to Boundary Reservoir Recreation Area
Cross back into the US and visit the Boundary Reservoir Recreation Area. Kayak to Pee Wee Falls, a stunning 233-foot waterfall. Hike to Sweet Creek Falls for a short, easy trail with a wading pool. Take in the region's beauty while enjoying simpler pleasures like skipping rocks into the creek.
Leg 7: Boundary Reservoir to the End
Explore Gardner Cave, the longest known cave in Washington state, and take a guided family-friendly tour—hike to Sweet Creek Falls for another waterfall experience. Enjoy the scenic Vista House, overlooking the Boundary Waters dam. Drive through communities like Ione and Metaline Falls, and don't miss Gardner Cave, the longest-known cave in Washington state.
Reflect on the incredible memories as you approach the end of this unforgettable road trip.

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Hear about travel to the northern island of Hokkaido in Japan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Inga from Inga's Adventures about a trip to hike in the Daisetsuzan National Park.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-hokkaido-japan/
Why should someone go to Hokkaido?
Inga says, "The natural beauty is the main reason to go to Hokkaido. The rugged landscapes and the feeling that you're far away from civilization is an experience. That you don't find in a lot of other places on the main island of Japan, which is Honshu. Many beautiful places to go down there, but it's a very different landscape in Hokkaido."
Inga recommends this 7-day itinerary for travelers interested in exploring Hokkaido, particularly focusing on the Daisetsuzan National Park:
Day 1-2: Tokyo
Arrive in Tokyo and spend a day or two decompressing and adjusting to the time difference. Stay in a hotel near Tokyo Station for convenience.
Day 3: Tokyo to Sapporo
Exchange the JR rail pass for the Shinkansen train journey to Hokkaido. While you can fly directly to Hokkaido and save the 8-hour train journey, for Inga the journey was part of the point. You can watch the mountains rise up and the population thin out as you head north. Stay one night in Sapporo, exploring the city and visiting places like the Tokyo train station and the Sapporo Brewery. Inga and her husband also visited the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden and a museum about the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido.
Day 4: Sapporo to Asahikawa
Take a train to Asahikawa, a smaller town. Explore Asahikawa, staying overnight.
Day 5-7: Asahikawa to Daisetsuzan National Park
Take a bus to Asahidake within Daisetsuzan National Park. Stay in a traditional onsen hotel in the park, such as Daisetsuzan Shirakaba Soryokan. Explore hiking trails, including the Sugatami Loop, nature trails, and hikes to the Nakadate Onsen. Enjoy the onsen experience in the hotel. Consider exploring other hikes within the national park if time allows. Return to Tokyo: Take a bus back to Asahikawa and a train from there to Hakodate. The journey back to Tokyo can be completed in the remaining two days, either by train or by taking a flight from Hokkaido.
Inga also mentions renting a car for more flexibility in exploring the national parks.
If you want a Japan experience with a heavy dose of hiking, ropeways, natural hot springs, and fumaroles consider heading north to Hokkaido.
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Hear about travel to Long Island, New York as the Amateur Traveler talks to Vanessa Gordon from EastEndTasteMagazine.com about her home.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-long-island-new-york/
Why should someone go to Long Island?
Vanessa says, "Long Island, there truly is so to discover, even from living out here for many years, whether part-time or full-time there's truly so much to do, whether you're in Nassau or Suffolk County, the two counties that make up Long Island.
I've lived here in the Hamptons, been here for over 30 years and this New York region never ceases to amaze me. There are ocean beaches. We have Bay beaches. We have beautiful nature preserves, bountiful farmers markets, and endless amounts of summer events."
Vanessa suggests visiting Long Island in September or October, mentioning the abundance of events, family activities, and cultural events during these months. She shares her favorite spots in Montauk, including the Montauk Point Lighthouse and the opportunity for seal watching and whale sightings.
Moving to Shelter Island, Vanessa recommends taking the ferry and exploring the island's unique attractions, such as Rams Head Inn and Mashomack Preserve. She also suggests Sunset Beach as a hotspot for live music and sunsets.
Vanessa then talks about Sag Harbor, her favorite village, and its family-friendly beaches. She highlights The Beacon restaurant and Barron's Cove Hotel for breathtaking sunset views. The discussion extends to wineries on the North Fork, with recommendations like Wolfer Estate and Channing Daughters.
She covers various family-friendly activities, including museums like the Parrish Art Museum and Guildhall and theaters such as Bay Street Theater. Vanessa mentions the presence of celebrities in the fall.
The itinerary continues with a move to Riverhead, described as the gateway to the North Fork and South Fork. Vanessa appreciates the town's historic charm, new businesses, and attractions like the Long Island Aquarium. She highlights the East End food market as a one-stop shop for local food purveyors.
Vanessa suggests considering staying in Brookhaven instead of the Hamptons to save on your travel budget.
She highlights Patchogue on the Great South Bay as a vibrant spot, particularly for nightlife, and recommends Fire Island for its popularity among the LGBTQ+ community. She emphasizes historical sites like Fire Island Lighthouse and Bellport, suggesting the Bellport Inn as a cozy stay.
Moving to the "Gold Coast" on the north shore, Vanessa mentions historic mansions like Teddy Roosevelt's Sagamore Hill, the Old Westbury Gardens, and Oheka Castle, the latter featured in a Taylor Swift music video. She advises dividing mansion visits over two days.
Whether you are visiting Long Island on your yacht or by train, whether you are visiting mansions or living in one, this area near New York City offers a very different world to the city with its beaches, farms, and vineyards.
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Hear about travel to the wine region Sonoma County in California as the Amateur Traveler talks to Brooke Herron about this popular tourism region where she grew up.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-sonoma-county/
Why should someone travel to Sonoma County?
Brooke says, "A myriad of reasons, in my opinion beyond wine. It is an absolutely stunning region from an outdoors perspective. You've got the coast, you've got hiking trails, mountains, hills and then you've got also lots of farms, distilleries, breweries, cideries. And what I loved the most about living there for 20 years and now coming back home to it on a regular basis is really first, the outdoors and the beauty, right? The access to the ocean and trees. And then next, of course, the fact that you can get amazing food, and craft drinks everywhere."
Brooke lays out a 5-day itinerary:
Day One: The Sonoma Coast
The first day begins on the breathtaking Sonoma Coast. Drive along Highway 1, skip the touristy Bodega Bay, and head to Shell Beach near Jenner. Here, you can choose between a leisurely stroll on the Kortum Trail or a more challenging hike on the Pomo Canyon Red Hill Loop. Chris recommends history buffs take the drive up to Fort Ross which was the Russian presence on the California Coast.
After the hike, consider a stop in Jenner for a smoked salmon bagel or clam chowder with a view over the bay. For dinner, Santa Rosa offers the Bird and the Bottle, a favorite, or a more casual option at Russian River Brewery.
Day Two: Sebastopol and Russian River
On the second day, Brooke will explore the charming town of Sebastopol and the Russian River area. The Barlow, an open-air marketplace, is a must-visit. Enjoy craft cider, spirits, and unique food options. Highlights include Golden State Cider, Blue Ridge Kitchen, SpiritWorks Distillery, and the recently added Rewind Arcade for a playful touch.
If you're not into alcohol, explore Goldridge Organic Farms for olive oil tastings and Bohemian Creamery for a delightful cheese experience. For wine enthusiasts, Horse and Plow, Dutton Estate Winery, and the unique Radio Coteau are recommended stops.
Day Three: Relaxing in Petaluma
On the third day, Brooke recommends a leisurely drive to Petaluma. Explore the historic downtown, and if in the mood for seafood, the Shuckery is a great choice. For a more casual experience, Brewster's Beer Garden offers a relaxed atmosphere with great outdoor seating.
Accommodations in Santa Rosa can be found at Hotel E, a boutique luxury option in the heart of downtown. In Petaluma, Brooke suggests considering the charming Metro Hotel for a unique and affordable stay.
Day Four: Explore Hillsburg and Windsor
Brooke's top winery picks in Hillsburg include Idlewild Wines for unique Italian varieties like Arnés, Fresa, Dulcetto, Grignolino, Barbera, and Cortese blends, with educational Sunday events. Orsi Vineyards, a hidden gem in Dry Creek Valley, offers distinctive varieties like Sagrantino and Biancolella. Unty Vineyards, known for sustainable practices, provides a casual Rhone and Italian variety tasting experience. Gary Farrell in Sonoma County is recommended for exceptional Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, especially from the Russian River Valley. Aperture Cellars, known for Bordeaux blends, stands out, with a focus on texture.
In Windsor, Artisan Alley hosts Two Shepherds Wine and Tilted Shed Cider. Two Shepherds offers organic and natural wines, including orange and skin-contact varieties. Grand Cru Custom Crush offers a diverse micro-winery tasting experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Shiloh Regional Park's hikes and mountaintop views, while Riverfront Regional Park offers a scenic water setting.
Brooke suggests exploring farmers' markets in Windsor and Healdsburg for fresh produce and vibrant atmospheres. Dining recommendations in Healdsburg include Bravas Tapas Bar, Willie's Seafood and Raw Bar, Valette Restaurant, and The Matheson. Lo and Behold is recommended for cocktails, and Black Oak Coffee and Flying Goat for coffee.
In Windsor, Artisan Alley's Two Shepherds Wine and Tilted Shed Cider are must-visits, along with Pizzalea for gluten-free pizza. To unwind, Shiloh Regional Park and Riverfront Regional Park offer beautiful natural settings.
For spirits, Young and Yonder Spirits and Alley Six Spirits in Healdsburg are noteworthy.
Day Five: Explore the Sonoma Valley
On day five, explore the renowned Sonoma Valley. Hike at North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park or Bartholomew Park.
Kibblestadt Cellars, known for balanced wines, is a top choice. Prohibition Spirits in Sonoma offers unique tastings like Pink Gin. Bedrock Wines, near the plaza, features interesting varieties.
Eldorado Kitchen is recommended for high-end dining. Café La Haye, Valley Bar and Bottle, and Sunflower Cafe offer diverse breakfast and casual options. Enoteca Della Santina is suggested for a relaxed glass of wine, while Winery 16 600 in Glen Ellen offers unique wines.
Sonoma's fine dining includes Eldorado Kitchen and Café La Haye. Hot Monk Tavern and The Grapevine are casual favorites. Eldorado Cantina, attached to Eldorado Kitchen, offers delightful Mexican food at a more affordable price.
Wrap up the day with tastings at Kibblestadt Cellars and Bedrock Wines. Brooke highlights Sonoma County's diversity, including hikes, beaches, cider, beer, and spirits. For planning, check Sonoma County Tourism's website for itineraries and information.
Whether you are here for the wine, cider, and spirits or the coastal hikes and ziplining through the redwoods, Sonoma Valley offers adventures that bring you back again and again.
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Hear about travel to Uluru and Central Australia as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel blogger Chris Fry from AquariusTraveller.com about her most recent trip to the red center of Australia.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-uluru-and-central-australia/
Why should someone go to Central Australia?
Chris says, "I Like visiting Uluru for the Aboriginal culture, the art, the history, learning about the Dreamtime. I think it's where I first started learning about the Aboriginal history and our First Nations people and it's one of the best places to actually learn about it there. Some of the tour guides are actually Aboriginal, so they will actually tell you their history, how they grew up and everything like that, so yes, I think it's great for Australians, it's great for tourists to actually learn about that first hand from the people who have been living here for 65 million years."
Chris recommends this itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Alice Springs
Arrive in Alice Springs and check into your accommodation. Take some time to explore the local area and get acquainted with the surroundings.
Day 2: Exploring Alice Springs
Visit the Royal Flying Doctors Museum to learn about its vital role in providing healthcare to remote regions. Explore the town's Aboriginal galleries, showcasing dot paintings and supporting local communities. Wander through Todd Mall, the central shopping district, where you can find souvenirs and enjoy lunch at one of the cafes. Discover the fascinating animal parks in Alice Springs, including a desert animal park and a kangaroo sanctuary.
Day 3: Road Trip around Alice Springs
Embark on a road trip along Larapinta Drive, exploring various gorges and stunning landscapes. Visit Simpson Gap, known for its white ghost gums, and a chance for a refreshing swim. Explore Standley Chasm, a narrow gorge with striking rock formations, best experienced during midday sunlight. Discover Ochre Pit, showcasing Aboriginal history through vibrant rock colors used for painting. Enjoy a swim at Ormiston Gorge, a popular swimming spot surrounded by towering cliffs. Explore Glen Helen Gorge and witness part of the Finke River.
Day 4: Palm Valley 4WD Adventure
Join a 4WD bus tour to Palm Valley, experiencing the rugged terrain and unique red cabbage palms. Learn about the Aboriginal history of the area and witness the contrasting colors of the landscape. Stop at Hermannsburg, an Aboriginal community, for a cultural experience. Return to Alice Springs in the evening and relax.
Day 5: Journey to Kings Canyon
Begin the road trip to Kings Canyon, taking the longer route for a scenic drive and passing notable landmarks. Fuel up at the Old Andado Roadhouse and explore the surrounding area. Arrive at Kings Canyon Resort, check-in, and relax for the evening.
Day 6: Kings Canyon Hiking Adventure
Embark on the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views. Explore the Garden of Eden, a sacred Aboriginal site with a water pool. Exercise caution around cliff edges and enjoy the unique rock formations. Optional: Take the shorter Kings Creek Walk, providing a different perspective of the area. Return to the resort for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Exploring Yulara, the Gateway to Uluru
Wake up and start the day by driving to Yulara, the town that services visitors to Uluru. Yulara: Learn about the town, which has hotels, camping facilities, a tourist information center, restaurants, cafes, groceries, and fuel stations. Consider hiring a car for convenience. Distance from Uluru: Yulara is about 30 minutes away from Uluru, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. Relax and familiarize yourself with the amenities in Yulara. Consider a shuttle bus for convenient transportation within the town.
Day 8: Uluru National Park Exploration
Purchase a National Park Pass for 3 days and start your first day in Uluru. Sunrise and Sunset: Enjoy the specific sunrise and sunset platforms in Uluru, perfect for photographers. Daytime Activity: Embark on the 10-kilometer walk around the base of Uluru, experiencing different shapes and formations created by nature. Uluru's Beauty: Marvel at the impressive dimensions of Uluru, a single rock monolith measuring about 2.2 miles long, 1.5 miles wide, and 348 meters high. Explore various formations and sacred sites, and enjoy the unique features of Uluru.
Day 9: Extended Uluru National Park Experience
Return to Uluru National Park for a second day of exploration. Sunrise or Sunset: Choose between sunrise and sunset at designated areas, or consider the Field of Lights experience, an art installation with 50,000 solar-powered bulbs. Optional Activities: Consider camel rides, Sounds of Silence dinner, or a helicopter flight for a unique perspective. Aboriginal Cultural Experiences: Visit the tourist information center for information on local tours, including the opportunity to make or paint your own didgeridoo.
Day 10: The Ogres (Kata Tjuta) Adventure
Journey to Kata Tjuta, about 45 minutes from Yulara. Hiking: Explore the Walpa Gorge Walk, an easy one-hour return walk through the middle of two rocks. Optionally, embark on the Valley of the Winds walk, a three-hour return walk offering stunning views. Afternoon/Evening: Relax and unwind, considering the Sounds of Silence dinner or enjoying the amenities at your accommodation.
Day 11: Return to Alice Springs
Morning: Begin the journey back to Alice Springs, stopping at the Oldunder Roadhouse. Safety Reminder: Stay vigilant on the road due to potential encounters with free-roaming wildlife, such as cows and camels. Return to Alice Springs and explore attractions like the truck museum or take a photo at the Alice Springs entrance sign.
Central Australia has some challenges like the prices, the flies and the red dirt getting everywhere, but it is also a unique and beautiful corner of Australia that is worth a visit.
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Hear about travel to Papua New Guinea as the Amateur Traveler talks to Chris Shorrock from TravelObscure.com about the Milne Bay Province of this exotic island country.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-papua-new-guinea-2/
Why should someone travel to Papua New Guinea?
Chris says, "There's a million reasons why someone should go to Papua New Guinea, it's such a varied country. I would say the main reason to go, is the people are amazing and there's A lot of culture there as well. Also, the amazing natural environment. We're talking jungle-clad islands, beautiful coral reefs, dolphins, birds of paradise, pristine rainforest, and then basically no other tourists. So that was a big draw for me, it's quite off the beaten track and obscure."
Chris flew to Alatau and then headed to the east cape, the Dento Castro Islands, and the Louisiade Island chain.
As a good transition to the country, he stayed at the Tewali Dive Resort for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. While there he took a side trip to a skull cave and a waterfall.
From there they arranged a dinghy to take them from the east cape to Normandy Island and the Sibonai Guest House. Wayaki who owns the guest house introduced them to the local culture including magic, the secret to good yams, and local birdlife. They also took a dugout canoe tour of the nearby bay.
They took a boat next to Ferguson Island. One of the reasons they visited Ferguson Island was to see the hot springs. They also met a Kula Trader. Kula trading is a ceremonial exchange system.
Chris also recommends a visit to Gonubalabala Island which is a great place to snorkel with manta rays. Samarai Island used to be the capital of the province and still has 24-hour electricity which is a rare thing in the area.
Back on the mainland he also recommends a visit to the Ulumani Treetops Rainforest Lodge. The owner of the lodge is using the proceeds from the project to protect a patch of tropical jungle from logging. Chris went on a hike into the jungle to see tropical birds like the bird of paradise... and not a few mosquitoes. They also went down to the shore to snorkel in the wreck of an old ship.
This is an adventurous trip, but if you are willing to dive into the deep end of travel, Papua New Guinea can reward your wanderlust as a tropical paradise should.
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Hear about sightseeing in the island nation of Malta as the Amateur Traveler talks to Michelle and Nikki from cheekypassports.com about their native country.
https://amateurtraveler.com/sightseeing-in-malta/
They say, “The island is small and that has its restrictions but it’s also a nice thing to have because you can visit and do a lot of activities in a short span. Nowhere is more than 15 minutes by car. The island is maybe 27 kilometers about 17 miles long and barely 14 kilometers wide. There is a lot of history and culture in Malta. There are small villages you can visit. There are large fortified towns. Visitors usually like the historic aspect of Malta. There are some of the oldest free-standing temples in the world. It is a pleasant island. There are the beaches. There’s a lot to do in Malta despite its size.”
Michelle and Nikki lay out a one-week itinerary for us. They start us in the small capital city of Valletta (only 5,000 people). Many of the buildings in Valletta were built by the Knights of the Order of St John (Knights Hospitaller). Not surprisingly, therefore, the largest church in Valletta is Saint John’s Cathedral. St John’s has a rather plain exterior which hides an ornate interior.
Valletta shares the Great Harbor with the Three Cities of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (Isla), and Bormla (Cospicua) which are also fortified cities. The harbor itself dates back to the Phoenicians. Get a great view of the harbor from the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta.
They recommend a visit to the “quiet city” of Mdina and its sister city of Rabat which is riddled with the underground catacombs of St Paul. St Paul spent some time on the island and brought Christianity to Malta which almost has a church for every day of the year. They recommend checking the local tourism board calendar for when the various churches are having festivals and planning your trip to attend some, if only to see the pageantry and sometimes the fireworks.
Stop by one of the small fishing villages like Marsaxlokk for fresh seafood right off the boat. In the cooler winter months, visit the western shore of the island and the Dingli Cliffs. The western shore of the island is less built-up and better for hiking.
Make a side trip to the island of Gozo which is “more quaint” than the main island. While you are there you should make a visit to the Ġgantija megalithic temple. In the center of Gozo you will find the Cittadella which is a small fortified “city”. Some of the best diving spots are on Gozo such as the Azure Window.
For a relaxing day, off-season, charter a boat or take a ferry to the Blue Lagoon on the mostly uninhabited island of Comino.
There is much to do, see, and eat in Malta. Come see why so many nations have wanted to pocess Malta over so many years.
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Hear about travel to the Charente region of southwest France as the Amateur Traveler talks to Kylie Lang from LifeInRuralFrance.com about her adopted home.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-charente-region-of-france/
The Charente region, part of Nouvelle Aquitaine in southwest France, is known for its charming sunflower fields, historical chateaux, and rich history. Visitors to the Charente can explore picturesque vineyards, taste world-renowned cognac, and indulge in fresh oysters. The region hosts daily markets offering fresh produce throughout the year, providing an authentic taste of French life. Its quaint villages appear almost frozen in time, creating a sense of stepping back to the 15th century.
Eleanor of Aquitaine, a prominent historical figure, played a significant role in this region. She was the only woman to be queen of two countries, France and England. The Charente, which was under English rule for about 300 years, now has a diverse community of English-speaking expatriates.
Angoulême, one of the notable towns in the Poitou Charente region, sits on a hill with ancient roots dating back to Roman times. The city is also known as the European capital of comics, hosting an International Comic Festival annually. It features impressive murals and a well-known automobile race.
Kylie suggests exploring the Hotel de Ville, which offers insightful tours about its history, and walking the city's ramparts. Angoulême's strategic location allows easy access to Bordeaux, which is just under 90 minutes away. Bordeaux, often referred to as the capital of wine in France, provides a great day trip opportunity. Visitors can explore the Cité du Vin, a modern wine museum offering immersive experiences and a panoramic view of Bordeaux. She also recommends the unusual Bassins des Lumières which is a digital art museum in an old German submarine base.
Cognac, another jewel in the Charente's crown, is renowned for its historical significance and world-famous cognac houses such as Hennessy, Martell, and Remy Martin. Kylie recommends the Hennessy tour, a three-hour experience that delves into the cognac-making process, and a river cruise to witness the scenic beauty of the region.
The Chateau Royal de Cognac, built in the 11th century, offers historical insights and a glimpse into the past. Cognac also hosts events like the Blues Festival, attracting big-name musicians and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Moving toward La Rochelle, it was a significant port and stronghold for the Knights Templar and later for the Huguenots. The city is known as the "jewel of the Atlantic coast" and offers historic sites like the towers of Saint Nicolas and La Chaîne. La Rochelle has a vibrant maritime history that influences its present identity as a popular tourist destination.
The islands of Île de Ré and Île d'Oléron, connected by bridges, are known for their oyster and salt beds. These islands have stunning beaches, making them perfect destinations for beach lovers.
Kylie mentions the Battle of Tours, a pivotal event during the Middle Ages which happened outside Poitiers. Poitiers also has connections with Eleanor of Aquitaine and offers historical sites such as the Palace du Duc, which is now the local courts.
Futuroscope, located near Poitiers, is a digital theme park that offers a unique and futuristic experience. It is home to various thrilling rides and attractions. Additionally, the Valley of the Monkeys (Vallée des Singes) near Poitiers is a 44-hectare reserve where monkeys roam freely. The park offers an up-close experience with various monkeys and primate species.
Aubeterre-Sur-Dronne is a picturesque village with a fascinating monolithic church known as the Eglise Saint-Jean. The church, carved into a limestone cliff, showcases remarkable ancient craftsmanship. The village is classified as one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France," recognizing its scenic beauty and historical significance.
Kylie recommends a visit to La Rochefoucauld Chateau, a historic chateau open to the public. The chateau has a rich history, and the La Rochefoucauld family was closely connected to royalty and was involved in World War II resistance. The chateau features a spiral staircase, said to be designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
When you are eating in a local restaurant, try a "plat de jour" for a value-packed meal. Also, try the local goat's cheese which is a specialty of the Charente and an unexpected bonus from the Battle of Tours. In addition to trying Cognac, she also recommends Pinot de Charente, a fortified wine in the region, which is akin to port or sherry.
Kylie encourages visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of sunflower fields and enjoy cognac, pinot, and the unique atmosphere of line dancing.
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Hear about travel to Egypt including Cairo and climbing Mount Sinai in the Sinai Peninsula as the Amateur Traveler talks to Greg from ThePresentPerspective.com about their recent trip to see a different part of Egypt.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-egypt-and-mount-sinai/
Why should you go to Egypt?
Greg says, "I think there are a million reasons why someone should go to Egypt. Warm and hospitable people. Great culture. Egyptian history obviously is vast, and it's one of the oldest civilizations in the world. There's so much to see in Lower Egypt, in Cairo there's just an endless wealth of treasures to explore but when we visited Egypt, we decided to go a little bit off of the traditional route that a lot of tourists go it's not that we weren't interested in going to Luxor and Aswan and doing a Nile cruise. We enjoy history, but we're not history buffs, and I think, to us, there was enough ancient history in Cairo."
"So while Luxor would have been great to visit, we had enough of a time with Egyptian history in Cairo, with the pyramids and Saqqara and all of that. So we decided to go a different route and instead of heading south, head east. So we headed into the Sinai Peninsula."
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

Arrive in Cairo, the capital of Egypt.

Check into your accommodation in Giza.

Day 2: Exploring the Pyramids

Spend the day exploring the Giza Plateau.

Visit the iconic Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu.

Explore the Sphinx and the ancient temples in the area.

Day 3: Saqqara and Memphis

Head to Saqqara, known for the Step Pyramid, which is one of the oldest pyramid structures.

Explore the ancient city of Memphis, the former capital of Egypt.

Return to your accommodation in Cairo or Giza for the night.

Day 4: Coptic Cairo and St. Simon the Tanner Monastery

Explore the historic district of Coptic Cairo.

Visit St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, located in caves on Mount Makatum.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historic site.

Spend the night in Cairo.

Day 5: Travel to St. Catharine

Depart for St. Catharine, a town located at the base of Mount Sinai.

Choose either a road trip from Cairo or fly to Sharm El Sheikh International Airport and arrange transportation to St. Catharine.

Check into your accommodation in St. Catharine.

Day 6: Hiking Mount Sinai

Wake up early to begin your sunrise hike up Mount Sinai.

Enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit as the sun rises.

Visit St. Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest in the world, located at the foot of the mountain.

Spend the night in St. Catharine.

Day 7: Dahab and the Red Sea

Head to the coastal town of Dahab.

Explore the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling or diving in the Blue Hole.

Visit the Colored Canyon, which offers stunning natural beauty.

Enjoy the Magic Lake for a unique swimming experience.

Stay in Dahab for the night.

Day 8: Relaxing in Dahab

Spend a leisurely day on the beach, enjoying the clear waters of the Red Sea.

Visit the Blue Lagoon for a peaceful experience.

Take in the local culture and cuisine in Dahab.

Relax and unwind in this beautiful coastal town.

Day 9: Return to Cairo

Travel to Sharm El Sheikh International Airport.

Fly back to Cairo and home

Egypt has so much to see. The Pyramids are amazing, but also consider heading into the Sinai to climb the sacred mountain of Sinai.
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Hear about travel to Queensland's Gold Coast as the Amateur Traveler talks to Leanne and Lyle from BeachTravelWine.com about one of their favorite beach destinations.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-queenslands-gold-coast/
Why should you go to the Gold Coast?
Leanne and Lyle say, "We go for lots of different reasons, but I guess the main one would be, the stunning beaches, and I know lots of places have stunning beaches, but this would have to, I think, be Australia's best strip of beaches, and it's the best surfing beach area, in Australia. It has a really interesting nightlife too. It's the nature, it's right there at the mountains as well and it's adventure. It's got a nickname of the Glitter Strip or, our Glamour Strip. It's it's not Las Vegas by any stretch of the imagination, but it's got that feel about it."
Leanne and Lyle lay out a week-long itinerary:
Day 1: Start your visit in the middle of the Gold Coast, in Surfers Paradise. Explore Cavill Avenue, a pedestrian-only strip with attractions like wax museums and Ripley's Believe It or Not. Stroll along the beachfront walkways and enjoy the beautiful beaches and surfers. Check out the iconic Surfers Paradise beach area and consider visiting the Q1 building for breathtaking views of the Gold Coast. If you're adventurous you can climb the outside of the building. Keep an eye out for the meter maids made famous by the Beatles.
Day 2: Head about 40 kilometers inland from the Gold Coast to Mount Tamborine, a mountainous area known for its lush rainforests. Explore the little town of Tamborine and the Gallery Walk, featuring craft shops, pottery, and more. Enjoy the Rainforest Skywalk and explore Lamington National Park, known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and lookouts. Consider hot air ballooning or visit local wineries and coffee plantations.
Day 3: Experience whale-watching cruises starting from South Port Marina. You'll have a chance to see humpback whales from June to November. After the cruise, explore the South Port Marina area and enjoy the beautiful views. Consider dining at local surf clubs and taking a stroll along the Tweed River with its picturesque views.
Day 4: Visit Pacific Fair, a large shopping center with various shops, food courts, and outdoor areas. Explore Broadbeach, known for its range of restaurants and cafes. You can visit Kurrawa Surf Club for lunch, take coastal walks, and enjoy the park.
Day 5: Explore Coolangatta and Rainbow Bay, where you can visit the iconic Snapper Rocks and enjoy the beach and local restaurants. You can also visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you'll encounter Australian wildlife, see wild lorikeet feedings, and enjoy various animal encounters and activities.
Day 6: Take a day trip to Moreton Island, known for the Tangalooma Wrecks, sunken ships that create a unique snorkeling experience. Enjoy the underwater scenery with coral and various fish species. You can also participate in dolphin feeding, where wild dolphins swim close to shore to take fish from your hand.
Day 7: Spend a relaxing day, perhaps visiting a spa or wellness center at your accommodation. Enjoy the beach, swim, and unwind, taking in the serene surroundings of the Gold Coast.
Some optional activities would include exploring some of Australia's best theme parks including Movie World, Dream World, and Wet'n'Wild. Consider purchasing a multi-day park pass to experience all the rides and attractions these parks offer.
You might also check if there are any local sporting events happening during your stay, such as NRL or Aussie Rules games. Fans of racing should think about attending events like the Gold Coast 500 V8 Supercars race or the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia. In both events, cars race through the streets of the Gold Coast.
For a side-trip consider a day trip to Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, which is only about a 45-minute train ride away. Explore Brisbane's attractions, such as the Botanic Gardens, South Bank, and the River City's waterfront.
You can attend unique cabaret shows like "Dracula's" or "Outback Spectacular" to add some excitement to your evenings.
Be aware of the two weeks in November when kids Queensland and New South Wales visit the Gold Coast for "schoolies" celebrations. This is Australia's version of spring break for recently graduated high school seniors. It might not be the ideal time for a visit if you're looking for a quieter experience.
If you are looking for a mix of glamour, beach, and nature, then consider Queensland's Gold Coast.
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Hear about a Viking Ocean Bay of Bengal Cruise to 5 countries from Bangkok to Mumbai as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer Elsa Dixon about this East Asia sampler cruise.
https://amateurtraveler.com/bay-of-bengal-cruise/
The Viking Ocean Bay of Bengal Cruise travels to 5 different countries: Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and India. What Elsa loved about this cruise was experiencing diverse and exotic cultures, including music, food, temples, architecture, and ceremonies in the Bay of Bengal region.
The cruise started in Bangkok, Thailand where Elsa and her travel companion did the typical city tour which included the Royal Palace, the Reclining Budha, and the Chao Phraya River. The cruise also offered more demanding walking tours, cooking classes, river cruises, and flower market tours. It also offered a full-day visit to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On Viking, there is always at least one free shore excursion as well as some with additional costs.
The cruise stopped again in Thailand on the Island of Koh Samui. The sightseeing tour visited Wat Phra Yai, the Smiling Buddha Temple. Or you can hang out on a beautiful tropical beach.
In Singapore, Elsa explored different cultural neighborhoods like Little India, the Arab Quarter, and Chinatown. Her traveling companion did a walking tour that explored the Peranakan culture which is a mixture of Chinese and Malay/Indonesian cultures.
In Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, Elsa was able to visit the colorful Batu Caves temple complex, the National Monument, the old British Railway Station, and the twin Petronas Towers.
The cruise also stopped in George Town in Malaysia where shore excursions include more temples, trishaw tours, and a visit to the Orangutan Island.
In Colombo, Sri Lanka, Elsa toured the old town, the Galle Fort, and attended a cultural evening at the Gallface Hotel where she watched the Sri Lanka dances. One of the other tours offered was a trip up to the high country to explore the tea culture.
In India, the cruise stopped in both Goa and Mumbai. She enjoyed the Portuguese influences in Goa but really felt like she was in India while touring the crowded bustling city of Mumbai. In Mumbai, she toured the markets at the Gateway to India, Dhobi Ghat, the Hanging Gardens and Kamala Nehru Park, and the Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi.
The cruise had a number of days at sea that were filled with talks and cultural presentations about the region.
Elsa continued her trip with a land tour of the "Golden Triangle" Mumbai, Jaipur, and Agra. She visited historical sites, observed local customs, and marveled at architectural wonders like the Amber Fort (Jaipur) and the Taj Mahal (Agra).
If you are looking for a cruise that allows you to sample some of the countries around the Bay of Bengal, Viking River offers luxurious adventure.
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Hear about things to do in Transylvania in Romania as the Amateur Traveler talks to Ela Palmer from WhereNextNomad.com about this historic and beautiful place that has much more to offer than Dracula stories.
https://amateurtraveler.com/things-to-do-in-transylvania/
Ela starts this itinerary in Bucharest but immediately hops a train to Sinaia, a beautiful mountain town in the Bussegi Mountains. Sinaia is known for its stunning fall colors and is home to two magnificent castles from the Romanticism movement of the 1800s, Peles Castle and Pelesor Castle. You can explore these castles, enjoy the charming town, and visit the 17th-century Sinaia Monastery.
After Sinaia, you can take a train to Brasov, a city in Transylvania that Ela fell in love with.
Brasov offers a variety of museums, and Ela suggests getting a ticket that allows access to 11 different museums in the area. Some notable museums include the Black Church, the Museum of Ethnography, the Museum of Urban Civilization, and more. The Black Church is known for its display of Turkish rugs donated by Saxon guilds in Brasov. Saxons were brought to the region to aid in the defense against the Ottoman Turks.
Brasov serves as a convenient base for hiking in the surrounding mountains, with cable cars available for easy access to stunning viewpoints and rock formations. Poiana Brasov, a ski resort located about 20 minutes from Brasov, is recommended for both skiing and hiking. Ela mentions enjoying hikes between Tampa and Poiana Brasov.
The best-known site in the area is Bran Castle. Ela does think this stunning castle is worth seeing. The castle is sometimes called Dracula's Castle but has little historical connection to Vlad Dracula who was an actual Transylvanian ruler. Ela advises against visiting during Halloween due to crowds.
Sighișoara is a smaller city compared to Brasov. It is a complete Saxon citadel with medieval streets, towers, and museums. Ela recommends the the Mystical Transylvania Museum where you can learn more about the actual Vlad Dracula and decide for yourself if he is a hero or villain.
The Carpathian Mountains and heavily forested Transylvania surrounding Brasov are home to one of the largest bear populations in Europe. Ela shares their experience of bear watching from a hide near Zărnești.
Ela suggests continuing the journey to other places like Cluj or visiting the Turda Salt Mines.
This region of Romania has become one of Ela's favorite places in Europe. See if you don't respond the same to the mountains, forests, castles, and picturesque cities of Transylvania.
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Hear about travel to Finland as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer Jayne Dear about a one-week itinerary to visit the best of Finland by train. https://amateurtraveler.com/touring-finland-by-train/ Why should you visit Finland? Jayne says, "Many reasons. One of the most notable is that it's the happiest country in the world. For the last six years, it's been declared the happiest country in the world on the World Happiness Report. It's a beautiful country. You probably will have seen more trees than you will have seen in your life." Jayne starts us in the capital of Helsinki. She recommends visiting:

Helsinki Central Station: A stunning Art Nouveau train station with a 48-meter-high clock tower.

National Museum of Finland: This museum offers insights into Finland's history, including Viking relics, artifacts, and a Russian czar's throne.

Market Square: Located by the harbor in Helsinki, it's a vibrant place to witness the local food scene, buy fresh produce, and try unique dishes like moose burgers and reindeer soup.

Helsinki Cathedrals: There are two cathedrals to explore in Helsinki—the plain yet dramatic Lutheran Cathedral and the opulent Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, offering a contrasting religious experience.

Suomenlinna Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic fortress on an island near Helsinki was built to deny the Russians access to the Baltic Sea. It's a fascinating place to explore, with military museums, a submarine, and a lighthouse church.

While you are in Helsinki Jayne recommends a side trip to Porvoo which is located an hour from Helsinki by bus, Porvoo is known for its traditional wooden buildings. It has an open-air museum, showcasing historic buildings, churches, schools, and farms, providing a glimpse into Finland's rural past. Take the train then to Tampere which Jayne calls the "Manchester of Finland" due to its industrial history. Visitors can explore old warehouses, textile factories turned into museums and unique architecture like the Art Nouveau Fire Station. The city is situated between two lakes, offering picturesque views. For the best views, hike the nearby esker, a gravel hill left by the last Ice Age. While in Tampere, Jayne and her husband also did a homestay where they were able to learn more about life in Finland. Located in Parola, south of Tampere, is the Parola Tank Museum which showcases a variety of tanks and military vehicles, offering insights into military history. Our next stop is Turku which was Finland's old capital. Turku boasts a medieval cathedral and a historic castle. The city's riverside features historic boats, making it an attractive destination for exploring maritime history. If you have extra time, head north to Rovaniemi which is located on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is famous for being the "home" of Santa Claus. Visitors can partake in activities like dog sledding and witness the Northern Lights during the winter months. Whether you want to explore the coffee culture, the Finnish love of board games, the extensive forests, or the Wife Carrying World Championships, Finland is worth a visit.
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Hear about a cruise to Greenland as the Amateur Traveler talks to Rebecca Merrell from manopause.com about this rugged and rapidly changing country.
https://amateurtraveler.com/cruise-to-greenland/
Why should someone do a cruise to Greenland?
Rebecca succinctly says, “Someone should do a cruise to Greenland if they’re looking to go somewhere remote without a lot of people and if they have an interest in the Arctic.”
The cruise itinerary is:
Day 1: Departure from Iceland
Travelers fly from Iceland or Denmark to Greenland. Arriving in Greenland, travelers land at Kingirlasuak, a former U.S. base that now serves as a large airport in Greenland. Embarkation on the “Ocean Albatross,” the cruise ship operated by Albatross Expeditions.
Day 2: Sisimiut
The cruise reaches its first destination, Sisimiut, the second-largest city in Greenland after Nuuk (the capital). Sisimiut, which means “foxhole,” has a rich history dating back thousands of years, including various indigenous cultures and traditions.
Travelers have the opportunity to explore the town, its colorful buildings, and visit local museums showcasing Greenlandic history and culture.
Day 3: Qeqertarsuaq, Disko Island
The cruise continues to Qeqertarsuaq, a former capital of North Greenland located on Disko Island. Travelers have the chance to explore this picturesque town, famous for its abundance of icebergs in Disco Bay.
Day 4: Uummannaq
The cruise heads further north, reaching Uummannaq, north of the Arctic Circle. Uummannaq Island is known for its heart-shaped mountain and offers unique cultural experiences. Activities include hiking to the Santa Claus house.
Day 5: Eqip Sermia Glacier
The ship sails to the Eqip Sermia Glacier (“The Glacier at the end of the fjord”), a breathtaking location known for its massive ice formations. Travelers witness the natural spectacle of ice calving, where chunks of ice break off and plunge into the sea. The changing hues of blue in the ice, caused by varying oxygen levels, create stunning visual displays.
Day 6: Ilulissat
The cruise arrives at Ilulissat, the third-largest town in Greenland. Ilulissat is known as ‘the Iceberg Capital of the World’. The town is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ilulissat Icefjord, where enormous icebergs calve from the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier at an astonishing rate (100 feet per day or 20 million tons of icebergs).
Travelers have the option to explore the icefjord by small boat and marvel at the towering ice formations.
Day 7: Sarfannguit
The cruise reaches Sarfannguit (“the place with the little stream:), a very small settlement with approximately 40 residents. Travelers visit the community center, where they can purchase local crafts, such as beadwork, paintings, and other products. The unique monument, a modern glass igloo, is also worth a visit.
Day 8: Return to Kangerlussuaq
The cruise returns to Kangerlussuaq, the point of embarkation, where travelers disembark. This marks the end of the expedition.
Throughout the cruise, travelers have the opportunity to hear lectures on Arctic topics, hike, museum visits, and interact with local communities. The stunning Arctic landscapes, icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife, including birds and marine mammals, provide a constant backdrop to this unforgettable Greenlandic adventure.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/uk-two-week-itinerary-by-train/
Hear about a UK two-week itinerary by train as the Amateur Traveler talks to Tracy Collins from UKTravelPlanning.com about a train trip in the country that invented trains.
London
We start in London. Spend some time visiting some of the iconic sites like the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey. Visit the great museums of London like Tracy's favorite, the Victoria and Albert Museum. Then we start our journey to see England, Wales, and Scotland from Paddington Station.
Bath
Visit the historic Roman Baths from which Bath gets its name. Visit the magnificent Bath Abbey. Stroll through the iconic Royal Crescent with its Georgian Architecture. Immerse yourself in Jane Austen's world at the Jane Austen Centre.
As a side trip from Bath, consider one of the following

Tour the stone circles of Stonehenge and Avebury.

Explore the awe-inspiring Salisbury Cathedral.

Take a scenic train ride to the picturesque Cotswolds.

Cardiff
Travel to the capital of Wales, Cardiff. Explore the historic Cardiff Castle. Embark on an exciting Cardiff Dr. Who Tour. Visit the impressive Principality Stadium.
Option 1: Liverpool
Take a train to Liverpool, the home of The Beatles. Join the magical Mystery Tour to learn about the Fab Four. Visit the historic Albert Dock including the International Slavery Museum.
Option 2: Lake District
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere, a charming lakeside town. Visit Dove Cottage, the former home of William Wordsworth. Experience the charm of Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's House.
Edinburgh
Take a train to Scotland's capital of Edinburgh. Walk the Royal mile from Edinburgh Castle to the historic Holyrood Palace. Hike up Arthur's Seat or Calton Hill for stunning views. Dare to venture into the mysterious Edinburgh Vaults.
As a side trip from Edinburgh consider:

Travel to nearby Glasgow.

Admire The Kelpies, Scotland's mythical horse sculptures.

Visit St Andrews, the birthplace of golf.

York
Take the Jacobite Steam Train through Tracy's native Northumberland to the city of York. Explore the Roman history at the Roman Bath in York. Discover the Viking legacy at the Jorvik Viking Centre. Wander through the charming Shambles. Visit the wonderful Railway Museum.
Return back to London.
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Best Day Trips from Amsterdam (Podcast) - explore the palaces, castles, windmills, parks, and history of the Netherlands
https://amateurtraveler.com/best-day-trips-from-amsterdam/
Hear about day trips from Amsterdam as the Amateur Traveler talks to Gopinath from greetingsfromeurope.com about his adopted country.
Gopinath argues that too many people only spend a couple of the Netherlands before traveling on to see more of Europe. He lays out a week's worth of day trips that one can make from Amsterdam. He recommends the following places to visit:
Located in Gelderland, the Palais Het Loo is often associated with Queen Wilhelmina. Explore its impressive architecture, gardens, and the connection between the Dutch royal family and this palace.
Drive from the Palace at Low towards Amsterdam, and you'll come across Muiderslot Castle, dating back to the 13th century, making it the oldest accessible site for visitors in the Netherlands. It's conveniently located less than half an hour from Amsterdam. You can reach the castle by car, public transport, or even take a ferry from Amsterdam in the summertime, adding a unique touch to your visit, as the castle sits at the meeting point of the River Vecht and the South Sea.
Nearby, you'll find the old star fortress city of Naarden, just two miles from Muiderslot Castle. While the city's layout may not be as impressive in person as it appears from an aerial view, it still offers a charming Dutch town experience with few tourists. Additionally, the small town of Muiden, just a minute from the castle, is worth a visit, featuring monumental and historic buildings, a beautiful marina, and picturesque views of the River Vecht and the South Sea.
Located in Baarn, Castle Groeneveld is a grand estate with beautiful gardens.
Giethoorn, a charming small village in the eastern part of the Netherlands, is approximately an hour and a half from Amsterdam and is often referred to as the "Dutch Venice." This picturesque place is famous for its canals and bridges. What sets Giethoorn apart is the wide canals, a result of historical peat extraction. Renting a boat is highly recommended.
Drive back to Amsterdam over one of the closure dykes to get a glimpse at how the Dutch have reclaimed so much of their country from the sea.
Feiluwa National Park park is known for its greenery and is popular with locals. It lacks the typical mountains and valleys found in U.S. national parks, but that just makes it better to explore by bike from its fleet of bikes. The historical hunting lodge in the park features a viewpoint tower and scenic lakeside views. The Kroller Muller Museum in the park houses a significant collection of art, especially from Van Gogh, making it a great alternative to the crowded Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
Kinderdijk is a UNESCO heritage site known for its 19 windmills. Take a boat ride and a glimpse into Dutch history and water management.
North of Amsterdam are the Dutch Golden Age cities of Horn and Enkhuizen with rich history, including impressive buildings, and the Zuiderzee Museum.
Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum near Amsterdam showcasing the Zaandam region's industrial and cultural heritage, including windmills and Dutch traditions.
Gopinath also recommends you visit fishing villages like Volendam and Edam, known for their maritime history and cheese production.
These day trips offer a mix of historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and royal connections, providing a diverse and enriching experience in the Netherlands. See why Gopinath thinks the Netherlands deserves more of your visit.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-new-york-city/
Hear about travel to New York City as the Amateur Traveler talks to Rebecca Shoval from Not Just Tourists NYC about her adopted home in the city that never sleeps.
Why should you go to New York City?
Rebecca says, "I think someone should come to New York for so many reasons. I think it's this incredibly vibrant place. It exudes life and I find walking around the city, it really just gives you energy. It's also this vibrant multicultural place where you can really see the way that there's so much commitment to the city and to the culture and to people really living in something resembling harmony next to each other... or at least ignoring each other and not getting in each other's business. There are so many different things to do."
Rebecca says that the city has changed since COVID-19. She highlights how the city has recovered and transformed from the pandemic's impacts, offering a unique perspective on what makes New York a vibrant and dynamic place.
Rebecca recommends exploring different boroughs and neighborhoods within New York City. The city's diversity is reflected in its various neighborhoods, each with its own cultural influences and attractions. She particularly recommends Queens, known for its ethnic neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, offering immersive food tours and unique experiences.
Public transportation is an essential part of the New York experience. Rebecca emphasizes the convenience of using apps like MyMTA, MTA Bus Time, and Train Time to navigate the city's extensive subway, bus, and train systems. The ease of using Apple Pay or Samsung Pay to access public transit now makes travel efficient and hassle-free.
The Staten Island Ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Southern Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey. It's a free ferry that provides a unique and picturesque perspective of iconic landmarks. Rebecca suggests taking this ferry to get a feel for the city's beauty from the water.
The Tenement Museum provides insights into New York's immigrant history, showcasing how various ethnic communities lived and worked. She would recommend that museum or the New York Historical Society instead of a trip to the World Trade Center Memorial for those interested in history.
Walking across iconic bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge provides breathtaking city views. Additionally, taking city ferries offers an alternative way to see New York's skyline from the water.
Rebecca recommends seeing New York from above but suggests skipping touristy skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and opting for bars or restaurants with panoramic views. The Graduate Hotel's rooftop bar on Roosevelt Island is recommended for its exceptional view of Manhattan and surrounding areas.
You have to check out the entertainment scene in New York. Broadway is amazing for its incredible talent and performances, while jazz enthusiasts are advised to explore smaller venues like Arthur's Tavern, Cellar Dog, and Somewhere Nowhere for a more interactive experience.
Try visiting parks like Brooklyn Bridge Park, Prospect Park, and Domino's Sugar Factory, which offer unique recreational spaces and city views.
For ionic New York food, you have to consider getting bagels and pizza. Joe's Pizza and Tompkins Square Bagels are Rebecca's favorites. Try street food, especially halal carts which are much more prevalent than hot dog stands in New York these days. Try some cuisine you can't get at home like Caribbean food, regional Chinese, or Burmese cuisine. Eat something at a bodega.
Rebecca's favorite restaurants include the experimental restaurant Fulgrances in Brooklyn which is notable for its rotating chefs and wine selection. Another favorite is Little Myanmar in the East Village, which serves Burmese food. She recommends the pasta at Nona Dora's (even the Gluten-free). Reservations are advised due to ongoing restaurant challenges post-pandemic. Use the Rezy app.
Wear comfortable shoes, carry a reusable water bottle, and bring a sense of adventure as you explore one of the world's greatest cities, New York City.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-belize-and-guatemala/
Hear about travel to Belize and Guatemala on the G Adventures "Classic Belize and Tikal" week-long small group tour: Mayan pyramids, cave tubing, and snorkeling on the Barrier Reef.
An adventurous trip to Belize and Guatemala. The tour started in Belize City, traveled to Flores in Guatemala, and then returned to San Ignacio Belize and the Island of Caye Caulker.
One of the highlights was visiting Mayan ruins, including Yaxha and Tikal in Guatemala and Caracol in Belize. I climbed to the top of 4 pyramids in 3 sites while learning about the Mayan Classical age from 200 to 900 AD. We saw Mayan ballcourts, temples, and noble houses. These sites are all in the jungle with the sounds of howler monkeys in the background and spider monkeys and kudamundi wandering the grounds. We saw tucans, turkeys, and other birds.
We stayed in the colorful island town of Flores Guatemala which is a center for tourism for Tikal.
We did cave tubing in Belize "near" San Ignacio, Belize. We floated through caves on inner tubes. We could get out of the tubes in the cave and see artifacts left by the Mayans of the Classical Period. Some of the group went to the well-known ATM cave where there are still the remains of some who were sacrificed to the gods at the end of the Classical Period. Others visited the Raptor Center where they got to interact with birds of prey.
The trip concluded on Caye Caulker, an island in the Caribbean Sea, where our group went snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef, encountering diverse marine life including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, rays, and sharks. We toured the island with local high school students as part of Bikes with Purpose. We concluded our trip with a lazy sunset cruise.
This was an adventurous tour. It is meant for people who are open to taking a crowded local bus, jumping into the water in a dark cave, and following a guide through the jungle canopy at a Mayan site. If you are such a person, the G Adventures "Classic Belize and Tikal" might be a great use of a week's vacation.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/nepal-itinerary/
Hear about a 10-day itinerary for travel to Nepal as the Amateur Traveler talks to Sean Hira about this beautiful country.
Why should someone go to Nepal?
Sean says, "Nepal's a little bit of an underrated destination. It's a landlocked country in the Himalayas sandwiched between two powerhouses, China. In India. My favorite part about Nepal is really the harmony between Hinduism and Buddhism and seeing those cultures coexist so peacefully from a tourist perspective. A lot of people go there for the trekking and the intense base camp trekking and the first thing that probably comes to your mind is Mount Everest, but there is so much more to Nepal than Mount Everest or Annapurna. The Himalayas are ingrained in the culture there, but you can see so much more than just trekking in Everest."
Sean lays out this itinerary:
Day 1: Kathmandu

Orientation walk around Patan Durbar Square.

Explore local bazaars and historical sites.

Sunset at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Durbar Square.

Day 2: Kathmandu

Early morning visit to Boudhanath Stupa for monk rituals.

Breakfast at a restaurant overlooking the stupa.

Visit Pashupatinath Temple and experience Hindu rituals.

Optional: Visit Bhaktapur and Nagarkot (extra day trip).

Day 3: Transfer to Bandipur

Private transfer from Kathmandu to Bandipur.

Orientation walk around Bandipur village.

Sunset at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Himalayan foothills.

Day 4: Bandipur

Sunrise viewpoint over the Annapurna region.

Breakfast and leisure time.

Easy hike to the "Great Wall of Bandipur" viewpoint.

Day 5: Transfer to Pokhara and Uluru Village

Transfer to Pokhara, stop for lunch, and rent trekking gear.

Continue to Uluru Village, north of Pokhara.

Prepare for the upcoming trekking adventure.

Day 6-8: Trek to Poon Hill in Annapurna Region

Begin a three-day moderate trek to Poon Hill.

Experience stunning landscapes, forests, and villages.

Stay in village homestays along the route.

Reach Poon Hill for panoramic Himalayan views.

Trekking altitudes vary from around 1,000 to 3,200 meters.

Day 9: Return to Pokhara

Complete the trek and return to Pokhara.

Relax and enjoy Pokhara's amenities after trekking.

Day 10: Fly back to Kathmandu

Fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

Revisit attractions or experiences missed earlier.

Last-minute shopping or exploration in Kathmandu.

Day 11: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, free time in the morning.

Depart from Kathmandu's International Airport.

Sean also talks about some extensions you could do including a Panauti Community Homestay.
If you are looking for an adventure, Nepal could be the place to go.

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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-svalbard-norway/
Hear about travel to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Cherie Gonzales from itscheriegonzales.com about her home north of the Arctic Circle.
Why should you go to Svalbard?
Cherie says, "Someone should go to Svalbard if you are adventurous and you love being outside and you want to experience the natural beauty and just really connect with nature without any interruptions. Then Svalbard is really the perfect destination for you. It has new landscapes, new experiences, in the summer."
"You'll experience midnight sun, and then in the winter, you'll experience polar night. And the nature is literally outside your door. The apartment where I live right now, it's 2 kilometers away from the center of the town. But it's less than a kilometer walk and you're already at the start of the trail that goes to a glacier, goes to an ice cave, and all that."
Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, is nestled between mainland Norway and the North Pole. With its coordinates at an astonishing 78 degrees north, it boasts the title of the world's northernmost community, housing around 2,500 inhabitants.
Cherie talks about the town of Longyearbyen, Svalbard's largest settlement, and its modern infrastructure, including hotels, shops, restaurants, and good Wi-Fi. She emphasizes the need to carry rifles for polar bear protection when venturing outside the town. Cherie also provides valuable tips for planning a visit to Svalbard, such as joining guided tours, experiencing local accommodations, and appreciating the natural beauty of the region.
Cherie brings her perspective to Svalbard, having been drawn to its charm despite her tropical roots. Her journey from the Philippines to the Arctic was marked by a stint as a cruise ship chef before she set foot on Svalbard.
Cherie recommends visiting Svalbard during the spring months for more daylight and various outdoor activities. Summer offers opportunities for hiking, while winter provides a chance to experience the polar night. She mentions key attractions such as Plata Fiala for panoramic views, boat cruises to see wildlife and glaciers, and visits to Russian settlements like Pyramiden and Barentsburg.
Svalbard offers a majestic and unique Arctic experience for adventurous travelers seeking a connection with nature and a taste of life at the northernmost reaches of the world.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-the-galapagos-islands-ecuador
https://amateurtraveler.com/galapagos-cruise-on-quasars-evolution/
Hear about travel to the Galapagos Islands as Chris Christensen, the Amateur Traveler himself, talks about a live-aboard cruise of the Galapagos Islands on Quasar Expeditions M/V Evolution.
The Galapagos is a singular destination. People describe other places as the 'Galapagos of Mexico or the Galapagos of some other place' but the Galapagos doesn't try and compare itself to anywhere else. This is a must-see destination for people who want a vacation to see wildlife. People can tell you how the wildlife here is different because it does not fear humans but until you are standing by a giant tortoise, walking through a booby nesting ground, or swimming with sea turtles and sea lions, it is hard to understand what that really means.
This is a place where you come to see giant tortoises or iguanas, but it is also a place to see interesting bird species like Nasca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and red-footed boobies. But it is also a place to experience the islands under the water. Have you swum with turtles, penguins, and sharks... on the same day? Have you had sea lions swim circles around you?
The best way to experience the Galapagos Islands is on a live-aboard boat. I was fortunate enough to be invited by award-winning Quasar Expeditions to explore the Galapagos on their M/V Evolution as their guest (they paid). This 32-passenger boat is one of the larger boats that explores the Galapagos.
I describe a one-week itinerary to the eastern islands in the Galapagos including stops at: San Cristóbal Island, South Plaza Island, Santa Cruz Island, Mosquera Island, Sombrero Chino, Santiago Island, Genovesa Island, Isla Seymour Norte, Santa Fe Island, and Floreana Island. If the Galapagos are not on your bucket list... they should be.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/azerbaijan-itinerrary/
Hear about an itinerary for travel to Azerbaijan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Australian journalist Emily Lush who is based in nearby Kutaisi, Georgia.
Why should you visit Azerbaijan?
Emily says, "It's really fascinating from a cultural point of view. Being in the Caucasus, it's got those great mountain areas for hiking. It's a misunderstood country in a lot of ways. It's quite young and it has this really Interesting history with all different influences."
"And then the oil stuff, so maybe people know it's a wealthy country with really outlandish modern architecture, but then there are also quite a few UNESCO sites that are really, very old and very interesting. It's a very complicated country with a little bit of everything, like this region."
We start in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan, which is situated on the Caspian Sea, below sea level. Explore the Old Town (Esher Esher) with its historic architecture, including the Shivan Shah Palace. Visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by Zaha Hadid, and other interesting landmarks like the Flame Towers.
Take a day trip to Gobustan, south of Baku, to see the fascinating mud volcanoes and ancient rock carvings, a UNESCO site. Visit the Fire Temple of Ateshgah and the burning mountain of Yanadag.
Consider visiting Nakhchivan, an autonomous republic that can only be accessed by flying from Baku. Explore the Machu Picchu of the Caucasus, Alinjagala Fortress, and other attractions.
Head northwest and visit Kynalik, one of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe. Experience the traditional way of life, including homestays, and enjoy hiking in the beautiful mountain setting.
As you head northwest, you can stop at Quba, a small village known for its exquisite carpet workshops. Watching skilled artisans create beautiful carpets is a unique experience. Continue to Lahıc, another mountain town with copper workshops and traditional crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to buy a samovar, a traditional tea-making instrument.
Next, venture deeper into the mountains to Gabala, a popular ski resort with stunning scenery. Even if you visit in spring, you can still enjoy a cable car ride and savor fresh river fish in nearby restaurants.
Shaki is a highlight of the trip, a charming city with a fascinating history and well-preserved monuments from the Silk Road era. Explore caravanserais, the Palace of the Shekhi Khan with its Persian miniature paintings and unique Shaki glass. Visit Kiş to see the oldest Caucasian Albanian temple, with mysterious origins.
For those with more time, Lankaran in the south offers tea plantations and a unique tea house culture. Also, keep an eye out for vintage Lada cars, as they are still popular in Azerbaijan.
Overall, this trip combines history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making Azerbaijan a fantastic destination to explore.
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Hear about travel to Hikone and Gifu in Central Japan as the Amateur Traveler talks to Miyuki Seguchi from the Japan Experts Podcast about he home region of Japan where she is a tour guide.
Why should you visit Central Japan?
Miyuki says, "A lot of travelers from North America or the West when they travel to Japan, they will stay in Japan for two to three weeks, and they usually travel from the eastern part of Japan to the western part of Japan or vice versa, but most of them do not stop off at the central region especially the southern part of Gifu to the eastern part of Shiga. So this part of Japan is simply not as well known as major tourist destinations, but there are a lot of places to visit, and these places are usually less busy and easy to access by public transport. If you want to explore some unique local areas with hidden gems that give you a great idea of authentic local life."
The journey begins with a visit to Hikone, a city located in the Chubu region, home to the well-preserved Hikone Castle, one of Japan's five national treasure castles. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride on the moat surrounding the castle and explore the beautiful gardens. Additionally, Miyuki recommends a boat trip to Chikubu Island on Lake Biwa to experience the coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism.
Next, the itinerary takes travelers to Sekigahara, a town known for the historic Battle of Sekigahara which changed Japan's history. Here, they can visit the Battlefield Memorial Museum to learn about the battle.
Moving west, the tour arrives in Gifu City, the largest city in Gifu Prefecture. A unique highlight here is the Ukai Cormorant Fishing, a tradition dating back over 1,300 years. This fishing method involves trained cormorant birds catching fish. The fishermen have an honorary position delivering fish to the Japanese imperial family. The Nagaragawa Ukai is famous for preserving this tradition, and visitors can experience it between May and October. There's also the opportunity to visit the Ukai Cormorant Fishing Museum for deeper insights into this cultural practice. Go out at night on a boat to watch this spectacle.
For accommodations, staying in a traditional ryokan is recommended, where you can try the high-quality multi-course Japanese meal called kaiseki ryori. Don't miss the chance to visit a hot spring or onsen.
The next day, explore the Kawaramachi district, a historic area with traditional merchant houses. The Nagaragawa River, one of Japan's cleanest rivers, has contributed to the development of craft-making, particularly Japanese paper called washi.
Climb Mt. Kinka to get a panoramic view of the region, including the Japan Alps and the city of Nagoya. The summit can be reached by cable car or a one-hour hike.
In the north of Gifu, you can explore Mino and Seki cities. Seki is renowned for its sword and knife-making tradition, offering the chance to witness skilled craftsmanship. Mino is also famous for its washi paper production, and you can visit the Washinary shop for various washi products.
Overall, Gifu Prefecture offers a blend of traditional culture, scenic beauty, and unique experiences. If you travel between Tokyo and Kyoto, you will pass right by.
show notes - https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-hikone-and-gifu-japan/
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Hear about travel to Cartagena and Northern Colombia as the Amateur Traveler talks to Inge from DestinationExplorer.world about this South American country that her family fell in love with.
Why should you go to Colombia?
Inge says, "I think first of all, if you are a nature lover, you should go to Colombia because it's amazing nature you will find there. It's still quite authentic. You have amazing wildlife. If you like bird watching it's the country to go to. You have mountains, beaches, desert, jungle."
"And if you are a city lover, there are also big cities. I think the people are amazingly friendly. My daughter lived with the local people, which we visited when we went to Colombia. And it was such warm hospitality. I never felt it before. Then the colorful culture. I like dancing. They have a lot of music there. They're dancing from the morning till the evening."
"Then the coffee. If you're a coffee lover, you should also go there."
"Many are concerned about the safety of the country. That was the question everyone asked me, oh, your daughter is going to stay in Colombia. Is it safe? But I can tell you it is as long as you go to the right places there. There are some places you better not go into. But we never felt uncomfortable. We always felt safe everywhere we went. In the past Colombia wasn't as safe as it is today."
Our adventure begins in the enchanting city of Cartagena, where you'll be captivated by the colonial charm and Caribbean vibes. This is a tropical city on the northern shore of the country. It will be colorful and it will be hot.
Start your exploration in the heart of Cartagena's historic district, Barrio Getsemani. Stroll through its colorful streets or take a walking tour. immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Inge guides us to rooftop restaurants where we can enjoy sunsets and cold drinks. Don't miss Plaza de la Trinidad, a lively square where locals and travelers gather to enjoy music, street performances, and vibrant nightlife.
Visit Parque del Centenario, a picturesque centennial park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. If you ask a local they can help you find the sloths in the park.
For breathtaking sunset views, head to Cafe del Mar Cartagena, a renowned rooftop bar overlooking the Caribbean Sea. If you're interested in history, visit the imposing Castle San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress that played a crucial role in protecting the city from invaders.
After immersing yourself in the charm of Cartagena, venture towards Santa Marta on your way, make a stop at Minca, a picturesque mountain village surrounded by lush vegetation. Explore Pozo Azul, a series of natural pools and cascades where you can cool off and enjoy the beauty of the jungle.
Discover the rich flavors of Colombian coffee on a coffee tour, where you'll learn about the coffee-making process and savor the finest brews. For a unique stay, consider El Paraiso de Tuki B&B Cafe y Cacao Farm, where you can immerse yourself in the world of cocoa and experience the authentic charm of a working farm.
Continue your journey to the renowned Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, a paradise of pristine beaches and dense jungles. Stay at Senda Koguiwa or Senda Watapuy, idyllic hotels nestled in the heart of nature, where you can relax and unwind. Explore the wonders of Tayrona National Park, including its hikes, beaches, and wildlife. You will see monkeys... you might see a jaguar or a crocodile.
When you are in Cartagena, people will try and sell you a tour of Playa Blanca or the Rosario Islands but Inge says if you are looking for the Colombian paradise island that they are selling you should visit San Andrés instead.
Colombia is a destination that offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical wonders to natural marvels. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with warm hospitality, warm weather, and a rich cultural heritage.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-cartagena-and-northern-colombia/
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