Oslo, Norway Part 1 of 2
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Where in the world am I? In San Diego, talking about Oslo Part 1 Welcome back to the Dr. Mary Travelbest Guide podcast. I had my second solo 90-day journey around the world, and I'm excited to connect with fellow travelers and share experiences. The FAQ is from Amara, who wants to travel more. She asked: How can I plan a trip like you do, Dr. Travelbest? Would I love to take some of the trips you have been on? I’m not sure where to start. I hear a lot from YOU, but how do I do it? Answer: Getting started is like this. Take small trips until you build up your travel muscles. I...
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Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Milwaukee, Wisconsin episode I’ve been traveling solo since 1972. Now you can experience for yourself the Best Selling Book Series: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, A Woman’s Guide to Travel and Destinations in Her Prime, a book series found on Amazon. Please rate this podcast and the book! The FAQ is “What’s my plan if I get sick, injured, or suddenly can’t continue my trip alone?” Today’s Mistake- Staying in a destination too long because leaving feels like failure Travel Advice: Organize your apps FAQ: “What’s my plan if I get sick, injured, or...
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Krakow, Poland and Selecting Accomodations
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Krakow . Welcome back to the Dr. Mary Travelbest Guide podcast. A few weeks ago, I returned from a 90-day journey around the world, and I'm excited to connect with fellow travelers and share experiences. Today, we will discuss Krakow, Poland, and when to admit you are not ready for a trip. We will discuss passports and then my travel mistakes. Get ready now, as we are starting. The FAQ is: Marcia, who recently returned from a solo trip to Antarctica, asked: “At what point does a destination become a bad match for my solo senior travel — and how do I admit...
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Gdansk, Poland and Why Travel to Poland?
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Today's Episode is about Gdansk, Poland The FAQ is: Why visit Poland? Answer: Poland is one of the places that Chicagoans love to talk about. It’s home to many people of Polish descent. If you enjoyed today’s Confidence Challenge on your essential documents, my book series Find it on the website at or on Amazon. It’s a several-part series. Today’s special destination is Gdansk, Poland Connect with Dr. Travelbest on YouTube
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Bergen, Norway and solo travel in your prime
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Today, we'll talk about Bergen, Norway. The FAQ is: Julie asked: How can I pack for several seasons in the same small pack? Answer: It’s going to be a challenge if you are moving to different zones in your trip. When I was in South Africa in June, the winter weather was a challenge, as there was no heat in the homes where I stayed. I used hot water bottles in bed at night. I also wore all of my clothes. A week later, I was in Greece and gave away the warm clothes to a new friend from England. She was a South Korean, grateful. You can experiment with what you need right away and then...
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Best of Mexico (From the Archives)
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
This podcast series helped launch the now famous book series, Five Steps to Solo Travel. Now you are able to listen to one of the eariest versions of the show, and it's still relevant today. This episode takes you to Baja, Mexico. You will learn to drive to Ensenada, the Valle de Guadalupe and other destinations. Find your confidence through the FAQ's and also my mistakes and errors, so you won't make the same ones. This is snackable, without any filters, just a great listen for you now. Follow Dr. Travelbest here on your favorite channel, on TikTok, on IG and FB. We have an...
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Quito, Ecuador and packing for South America
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
FAQ:” Let’s quickly address how to pack for South America. If you are in the winter, it's summer, so you don’t need many clothes; pack light. I only took a personal item, but I had to wash it often, and I had only one pair of sneakers. No laptop. It helped me travel quickly and efficiently on planes, trains, and buses. In their winter, our summer, you should have many layers and a raincoat. I was able to buy what I needed or forgot while I was there, and the dollar was strong. On my first trip to South America, about 30 years ago, I went skiing in Chile, and I had to bring...
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Niagara Falls, Canada
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
This is Dr. Mary Travelbest, and we'll be talking about Niagara Falls, Canada. See Book A for guidance on saving money on airline tickets and more. Destination Deep‑Dive Today’s destination is: “A Day at Niagara Falls – Solo, Soaked & Spectacular” Today, we're diving into the thundering wonder that is Niagara Falls, from a solo female traveler’s lens — and yes, I got a little wet. On the Road to the Falls I took the FlixBus from Toronto to Niagara Falls. The ride is scenic and comfortable, even with a bit of drama—my Toronto Metro train broke down this morning. I had to get...
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Best of Dr. Mary Travelbest - Dr. Travelbest History plus solo vs group travel
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
This episode aired in 2022, so if you missed it, find out more about the origins of the Dr. Mary Travelbest story. We are now on episode 350 and counting, so let us hear from you. @drmarytravelbest Give a gift of solo travel to a loved one. Find out more.... Thanks for Connecting further with Dr. Travelbest
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Lima Peru and airport luxury lounges
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
This is Dr. Mary Travelbest. I help you travel. The 60-second confidence challenge is on getting access to the airport lounges. It will take some experience, but it’s worth it. Check the fine print, too. If you like today’s Confidence Challenge, my book series dives deeper into best practices while traveling solo—link in description.” See Book A for addressing this challenge. Find it on the website at or on Amazon. It’s a several-part series. Today’s special destination is Lima, Peru. Hello, solo travelers—especially my sisters 50 and up. Today I’m...
info_outlineTravel Planning: Part 1 Colombia
In this episode: Where an I heading series: Part 1
Today’s Mistake- avoiding potholes and buying new tires
Travel Advice: Safety and security tip
FAQ: How do you use SERVAS?
I use Servas International to help me plan my trips. You sign up on the website, and a representative will contact you and interview you. They will make sure you are a real person and check references. Then, you get a Letter of Engagement, and you can contact hosts and day hosts.
Today’s destination: Planning my trip to Colombia
Friends to meet in Bogota. Peace Servas Secretary Colombia. She said YES! Reach out to her with my dates and any needs. I am friends with Fanny Vico.
Flights: Given your preference for flying over driving, consider booking internal flights between major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Airlines such as Avianca and LATAM offer frequent domestic routes.
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Accommodation: Opt for reputable hostels or budget hotels in safe neighborhoods. For instance, Selina offers locations in Bogotá's La Candelaria and Cartagena's Getsemaní, both known for their vibrant culture and relative safety.
📍 Bogotá
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La Candelaria: Explore this historic district with its colonial architecture, museums, and street art.
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Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Home to an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.
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Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá: Consider a guided tour to this unique underground cathedral carved within a salt mine.
2 days in : Cartagena
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Walled City: Stroll through the historic center with its colonial buildings, plazas, and cafes.
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Getsemaní: Experience the local art scene and vibrant nightlife in this bohemian neighborhood.
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Rosario Islands: Consider a boat tour to these nearby islands for a relaxing beach day.
3 days in Medellín
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Comuna 13: Join a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood's transformation and vibrant street art.
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El Peñol and Guatapé: Take a day trip to climb El Peñol for panoramic views and explore the colorful town of Guatapé .Condé Nast Traveler+2sojournies.com+2Adventurous Kate+2
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Pueblito Paisa: Visit this replica of a traditional Antioquian town for cultural insights and city views.
Mid-episode promo: Where are you going? Let me know if I helped you travel. The show notes have ways to connect.
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Colombia Tips for Solo Travelers
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Stay in centrally located accommodations like the Downtown or Historic areas for easy access to attractions.
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Join a guided tour for a fun way to explore with others (walking, brewery, or riverboat tours).
Today’s Mistake- Potholes.
When I’m driving, it’s hard to dodge potholes. I need to make sure that I drive on roads that are less like crater forests and more like smooth roads. I had to buy four new tires this week, and I think some of the damage was from potholes. Here’s some driving tips for you to get more from your tires.
Assume every unexplained shadow could be a pothole, give yourself options by slowing and spacing out, and keep your tires healthy enough to bail you out when surprise strikes. A little skepticism goes a long way toward smoother, cheaper journeys.
Today’s Travel Advice-Safety Tip: Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing.
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email: info@drmarytravelbest.com