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...
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Cartagena, Colombia and safety in South America
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Cartagena, Colombia. Today, we're heading to Cartagena, Colombia —a vibrant and touristy Caribbean city bursting with color, music, and history. It's one of the most popular destinations on South America's northern coast — and I'll share my experiences and a few lessons learned for solo travelers like you. Get ready to immerse yourself in a culture that's as lively as it is rich. Let's start with the setting. Cartagena's Walled City — La Ciudad Amurallada — is the heart of it all. I recommend exploring early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. You...
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Lincoln Square, Chicago, using AI on the road and staying healthy tips
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Where in the world am I? In San Diego, talking about Lincoln Square, Chicago. The FAQ is about using AI while traveling. How do I get the best responses to my prompts when I have a question? Is there a platform you recommend? There are thousands of platforms, and new ones are popping up every day. For travelers seeking the most current answers to their travel questions, you are in luck. You can navigate the territory solo better today than ever because you can ask the right questions. Practice is the best way to use them. 60-second confidence challenge If you like today’s...
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Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Where in the world am I? In San Diego today, talking about Cape Breton, Canada . Hi there. I'm Dr. Mary Travelbest, world traveler, professor, marketing expert, and all-around fun person. And I'm excited to connect with fellow travelers and share our experiences. Quick-fire FAQ: Your mom, grandmother, or even your daughter told you to be careful when traveling solo. But did they ever do it? You are on your way. The question I get asked is: What should I tell someone who discourages me from traveling? Answer: You can turn it around and ask for specific information...
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Machu Picchu, Peru including lessons learned about Step 5 travel
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Where in the world am I? In San Diego, talking about Machu Picchu Are there any tips to help me avoid being cheated or robbed while traveling? Yes, you can take precautions like removing your expensive jewelry before traveling and not carrying expensive purses or shoes. Don't look like a target. Look like you belong, and try not to stand out from the usual crowd. Check reviews of any Airbnb or turo car rentals you book. Be careful not to walk alone in the dark at night, as much as possible. Think of the odds whenever you go out. Please put them in your favor, not a criminal. If you like...
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Medellin Colombia Part 2
Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
Medellin, Colombia.Part 2 Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest Guide Quick-Fire FAQ: Drying Out Wet Clothing. How do you do that on the road? How do you dry your wet belongings while traveling, especially when you're solo? Especially in a humid area, it’s hard to get things dry. When you solo travel, you have more control over your time constraints, so plan to let things dry. When it’s damp, the best way to dry your clothes is by maximizing water removal before drying. Try the towel roll trick. First, lay the clothes flat on a towel, roll them up, and twist to ring out...
info_outlineEcuador: planning
Listener Story Spotlight
I want to tell you about a listener named Pat who loves to take 40-minute walks. She does one every day. We have traveled together to Spain and have been ski buddies for over 10 years. She's a superb figure skater and loves cats. Maybe you even know my friend. Her last name is Brown, inspiring me to go to the Galapagos Islands this year. Thanks, Pat, for that encouragement.
The FAQ for today is:
How do you choose your outfits for weather conditions that constantly change?
The answer is more straightforward than you think: It's basic colors, basic footwear, and layers, including a layer of insulated and waterproof clothing with a hat.
You can also buy things along the journey, so if you don't have one now, you can get one later.
What brings you more confidence? Is it knowing where you are going to sleep tonight? Is it knowing the language? Is it knowing you don't have to worry about anything? Let me know your thoughts.
If you like today's Confidence Challenge, Chapter 2 of my book dives deeper—the link is in the description."
See Book A for addressing all of these items.
Destination Deep‑Dive
Where am I headed? Ecuador
Here's a personalized travel itinerary for your Ecuador and Galápagos trip, tailored for a solo female traveler who loves the ocean and beach swimming. It includes suggestions for activities, safety tips, and recommended accommodations. 📍 Quito Day 1 – Arrival in Quito Arrival: Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Casa Gardenia – The Boutique is in the historic center, a safe and walkable area. Budget option: Community Hostel Quito – Great for solo travelers, safe and sociable. Afternoon: Explore Quito's Historic Center (UNESCO World Heritage Site): La Ronda, Plaza Grande, and San Francisco Church Evening: Dinner at Casa Gangotena Rooftop for views of colonial Quito Day 2 – Day Trip Option 1: Middle of the World Monument (Mitad del Mundo) and Intiñan Museum Option 2: TelefériQo Cable Car + short hike (go in the morning for clear skies) Evening: Pack and rest for early Galápagos flight 🐢 Galápagos Islands Flight: Early flight from Quito to Baltra Island (GPS), transfer to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island Day 3 – Arrival and Beach Time Stay in Puerto Ayora: Mid-range: Hotel Fiesta Galápagos Budget-friendly: Hostal Gardner Galápagos Activity: Visit Tortuga Bay – a white sand beach suitable for swimming and kayaking (walk in or take a water taxi) Day 4 – Santa Cruz Exploration Morning: Visit Charles Darwin Research Station Afternoon: Swim/snorkel at Las Grietas (lava rock canyon) Evening: Enjoy seafood at La Garrapata or Il Giardino. Day 5 – Day Tour (Don't Miss!) Recommended Day Tour: Bartolomé Island (book ahead) Stunning views, snorkeling with sea lions, penguins, and tropical fish Tour provider recommendation: Galápagos Dreams Adventures or Nature Galápagos & Ecuador Day 6 – Another Island or Beach Day Option 1: Day trip to Isabela Island – visit flamingo lagoon, snorkel at Concha de Perla (more extended travel) Option 2: Playa El Garrapatero – quieter beach, ideal for relaxing and birdwatching 🛫 Return to Quito Day 7 – Quito City & Shopping Return flight from Baltra to Quito Hotel: Return to Hotel Casa Gardenia or Hostal El Arupo in La Mariscal Visit the La Floresta neighborhood – artsy, cafés, and murals. Shop for souvenirs at Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal Day 8 – Final Explorations & Departure Relax at Parque La Carolina or visit Museo del Banco Central Depart Quito 🌟 Don't Miss Highlights Tortuga Bay: Perfect for swimming and kayaking Bartolomé Island: Once-in-a-lifetime views and marine life Las Grietas: Safe, unique swim/snorkel spot Mitad del Mundo: Fun and educational photo stop ✅ Tips for Solo Female Travelers Stick to well-reviewed hostels or boutique hotels Use airport and hotel transfers through your accommodation when possible. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and your snorkel gear if possible. Don't swim alone at isolated beaches—join a small group tour.s |
Smart Move and Slip up pairings
Keep digital copies of travel documents and insurance. Don't forget to keep your passwords protected, too.
If you like today's Confidence Challenge, Chapter 2 of my book dives deeper
· Step out of your comfort zone
· Enjoy your life
· Innovate and explore
· Self-Actualization
· Pleasure
· Emotional experience
· Face your fear of going alone.
It seems that the more places I see and experience, the bigger I realize the world to be. The more I become aware of, the more I realize how relatively little I know of it, how many places I have still to go, how much more there is to learn. Maybe that's enlightenment enough – to know there is no final resting place of the mind, no moment of smug clarity. Perhaps wisdom, at least for me, means realizing how small I am and unwise and how far I have yet to go. (Anthony Bourdain, travel expert)
If you are looking for more solo female resources, you can find several tips and ways to navigate the pitfalls with Journey Woman or other great resources.
The away mantra is to go and find peace where you rest and bring good to others.
You can travel solo and never be alone. Dr. Travelbest.