Phu Quoc Vietnam
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Phu Quok, Vietnam In this episode, the FAQ is: What’s the best water bottle for travel? Today’s Destination is: Phu Quoc, Vietnam Today’s Misstep- I Booked a room under construction and How I upgraded. Travel Advice: Take a small risk, not always a big one in Vietnam FAQ: What’s the best water bottle for travel? The top 10 water bottles for a solo senior female traveler will be on this list, including price, from the least to most expensive in the show notes. They range from $11 to $90. Vapur Anti-Bottle Collapsible Water Bottle - $11–$14 Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free...
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Edinburgh, Scotland
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Today’s Destination is: Edinburgh, Scotland Today’s Misstep- Too much of a good thing Travel Advice: Eat early, rest early FAQ: How do I remember to stretch while on the road? Answer: Tips for Remembering to Stretch: Set Phone Reminders: Schedule gentle reminders on your phone for morning and evening stretches. This way, it’s a built-in routine, just like brushing your teeth. Tie it to Daily Activities: Stretch after sitting for long periods, like after a meal or a bus/train ride. This helps to break up stiffness and becomes part of your rhythm. Use Cues...
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Coventry, England
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Today’s Destination is Coventry, England Today’s Misstep- Manila Airport was a disaster Travel Advice: Bring the thing you usually forget FAQ: What are some simple exercises for travelers, especially solo females in their prime? Here are five I recommend: Walking: Aim for a daily walk to explore your surroundings. It's an easy way to keep your body moving and enjoy the local sights. Leg and Ankle Stretches: Sitting stretches are perfect for waiting in lines or resting. Flex and extend your ankles, or gently lift and lower your legs. Back and Shoulderstretches: Do these to...
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Cabrillo National Monument Part 2, accessibility
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
In this episode, the FAQ: How do I best enjoy the Cabrillo Park? Today’s Destination is Cabrillo National Monument Accessibility Part 2 Today’s Misstep- Don’t forget to stretch like I did. Travel Advice: Swimming? Watch your valuables. FAQ: My friends ask me how do I enjoy the Cabrillo Park. I love this question. First, you have to plan for it, so bring your National Park Pass and try to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday, the slow days. Park at the top and see the lighthouse. It’s iconic. Then visit the overlook to the city of San Diego and see the boats go in and out...
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Cabrillo National Monument Part 1, using AI for travel, advice on guides
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
In this episode, the FAQ: Can AI really help me travel? Today’s Destination: Cabrillo National Monument Experience Part 1 Today’s Misstep- Mark Twain jokes about European tour guides in his travel books. Travel Advice: If you are interested in travel and do as you listen here, why not purchase a guide that answers most of your questions in one place? FAQ: Can really AI help me travel? Answer: AI is a great tool kit for travel. Yes, but be sure to check for accuracy and hallucinations. You will also find bias. But you can start...
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Best of Denali National Park, Alaska
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Today’s Destination is: Denali National Park, Alaska Connect with Dr Travelbest email:
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Milan Italy
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
In this episode, the FAQ is: How do I manage increasing technology and security for travel? Today’s Destination is: Milan, Italy Today’s Misstep- I almost took a train to Switzerland at the Milan station Travel Advice: Bring a handheld portable fan for the heat. It can be oppressive. FAQ: The level of technology and security has stepped up for travel and entertainment. How do I manage it as a senior citizen in a very busy world? Answer: There is a growing level of distrust in today’s environment. For some venues, you can no longer use a...
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Best of Hawaii's Big Island
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Today’s Destination is: Best of Hawaii's Big Island Connect with Dr Travelbest email:
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Lake Como, Italy
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
In this episode, the FAQ is: What should I tell people who think I can’t travel solo? Today’s Destination is Lake Como, Italy Today’s Misstep: Sometimes, you don’t love your roommates when you share a room. Here’s why. Travel Advice: Don’t buy another timeshare. If you have one, it’s really hard to sell it. FAQ: What do I tell people who think I can’t travel solo? Answer: Ask them why not. Then listen. Then, address each one of their questions or comments if you like. No one says you need permission to travel solo, but it would be good to tell them...
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Belfast, Northern Ireland
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
In this episode, the FAQ is: Using QR Codes. Are they safe? Today’s Destination is: Belfast, Northern Ireland Today’s Misstep: My leaky water bottle was in the overhead bin on the airplane. Travel Advice: Secondhand stores in Belfast are good deals. FAQ: Using QR Codes. Are they safe? Answer: When you open a QR code, pay attention to the context and the brand because it could contain a virus or even worse. Be careful when accessing websites on your desktop, laptop, tablet, watch, or phone. Preview the destination before you go there. A QR code...
info_outlineToday’s Destination is: Edinburgh, Scotland
Today’s Misstep- Too much of a good thing
Travel Advice: Eat early, rest early
FAQ: How do I remember to stretch while on the road?
Answer: Tips for Remembering to Stretch:
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Set Phone Reminders: Schedule gentle reminders on your phone for morning and evening stretches. This way, it’s a built-in routine, just like brushing your teeth.
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Tie it to Daily Activities: Stretch after sitting for long periods, like after a meal or a bus/train ride. This helps to break up stiffness and becomes part of your rhythm.
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Use Cues in Your Environment: Place visual cues like a stretchy band or even a scarf in plain sight to remind you to stretch or exercise.
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Wind Down with Evening Stretches: A simple stretching routine before bed helps with relaxation and keeps you consistent.
Today’s destination: Edinburgh, Scotland,
It’s got to be one of the favorite places in Europe for great walkable cities. There are hills, though, which can be challenging.
I was there in July, right before the Fringe Festival, which is in August. This is a very busy time for tourists, and they say the city gets clogged up.
To maximize my visit, I chose the hop-on, hop-off tour bus, which allowed me to take three different routes for 24 hours, so I spread it over two days.
Edinburgh is safe for solo travelers, but as with any city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Edinburgh weather can change rapidly. Dress in layers, and carry a light rain jacket or umbrella.
If you are hearty and want a challenge, Hike Arthur’s Seat, a small hill, which will take 2-2.5 hours, with a great view. It’s Stop 13 on the Green tour,
Of course you want to see Edinburgh castle, the National Museum (free) and Gallery. Oh, and see Parliament, too.
Recommend Carlton Hill, with National Monument.
They still shoot off canons here daily.
Here are my top recommendations:
Edinburgh Castle. visit the city’s most famous landmark with a breathtaking view over Edinburgh. You'll see the Crown Jewels of Scotland , the mint, and the Stone of Destiny. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle's history. Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.
Royal Mile Stroll, for basic people-watching and shopping.
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Why Visit: The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, offering charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, churches, shops, and cafes. Stop in for a mass if it’s your jam, and see a religious service here at St. Giles.
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Tips: Take your time exploring the side streets and grab a coffee in a cozy café along the way. You may even stop in the Harry Potter neighborhood, Diiagon Alley, Victoria Street, like I did.
Mentioned earlier, Arthur’s Seat Hike.
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Why Visit: Arthur's Seat offers a gentle trail and panoramic views of the city and coastline. It’s free, and it's a great place for those who enjoy light hiking.
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Tips: Choose the easiest route (via Dunsapie Loch) if you want a less strenuous climb. Bring a windbreaker; it can get windy at the top.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
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Why Visit: This peaceful oasis is perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll among exotic plants and beautifully landscaped gardens. I loved this place and the park across the street, it was not on the touristy lists. Britannia Port is nearby, too.
Princes Street Gardens
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Located right in the city's heart, these gardens are ideal for a leisurely walk with views of the castle and great nature-loving. It’s hard to miss this neighborhood.
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If you’re visiting during December, check out the Christmas Market held here for a festive experience.
Today’s Misstep: Too much of a good thing, touristy places.
Today’s Travel Advice- Eat early and rest early
Connect with Dr. Travelbest
5 Steps to Solo Travel website
Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page
Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group