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_outlineWhere in the world am I? In San Diego today, talking about Cape Breton, Canada
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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 on what they know about solo travel, how they learned about it, and what facts support their knowledge. Do not be confrontive, but do ask for some examples so that you can diffuse the situation.
In the long run, they want what's best for you. Remember, they don't have any ulterior motive; they just want to be helpful.
When you tell them where you are going, how prepared you are, and that you have a sound system of backups, they will wish you well.
60-second confidence challenge
Your challenge is to use your MAP App at night. It's not the same as daytime so that you will face some additional challenges, but once you do it, you will gain confidence.
In future episodes, we will discuss walking at night in more detail.
If you like today's Confidence Challenge, my book series dives deeper into using maps and how to build confidence using them—link in description."
See Book A for addressing this challenge.
You can find it on our website at https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com/ or on Amazon. It's a several-part series.
Destination Deep‑Dive
Today's special destination is: Cape Breton, Canada, and the Cabot Trail.
Today, I'm taking you along one of the most breathtaking drives in the world — the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The sheer beauty of this place will leave you in awe.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park anchors this famous loop, which you can drive either from Chéticamp on the west or Ingonish Beach on the east — about 104 kilometers apart. I suggest starting counterclockwise, from east to west, for the best morning vistas on the right side of the road, and later, sunset views along the coast.
Before you go — fill your gas tank! There are only a few gas stations along the way.
This area is all about the outdoors. For hikers, the Skyline Trail is a 6.5-kilometer loop, approximately two hours long, offering sweeping ocean views — one of the most popular hikes in Canada, with possible moose sightings and breathtaking cliffs.
If you prefer a shorter option, try Broad Cove Mountain. Alternatively, head east to the Coastal Trail or west to the Fishing Cove Trail or Corney Brook Trail, which passes by the waterfalls.
If you don't have camping gear, you can rent ready-pitched cabin tents called oTENTiks — a great option to experience the park overnight.
Seafood lovers, you're in luck! There are numerous small, local restaurants serving lobster, scallops, and fresh fish. And if you want a local experience, stop by a whale museum or take a whale and seal cruise — both are worth the time.
Where to stay: For budget stays, CabotTrailHostel.com offers beds with good value. I stayed at the Bear on the Lake, located in Whycocomagh on the Bras d'Or Lake, which is centrally situated for exploring the Cabot Trail.
Vibe: Welcoming, social, clean, and safe for solo women travelers; shared kitchen and lake-view deck for relaxing evenings.
Now back to the travel sights: Outside the park, stop in Baddeck, home of the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, and don't miss their famous lobster suppers. In Sydney and North Sydney, you can explore a miners' museum, local parks, and even take a ghost tour.
One morning, I left my hostel before seven, snacks packed and spirits high. The drive was pure joy — no traffic lights, sunshine, and that incredible Celtic charm everywhere. Next time, I will visit the Gaelic College in St. Ann's (Ceilidh trail music and crafts). My Irish roots would be smiling. I even met a 70-year-old postmaster who invited me for a private swim in a local lake with a private entrance. Hidden from view, I took a spontaneous dip with permission from the owner-and yes, it was a nude swim in nature! I did lose my glasses, which I will mention later on, but it was worth it for that moment of freedom.
I even met a 70-year-old postmaster who invited me for a private swim in a local lake with a private entrance. Hidden from view, I took a spontaneous dip with permission from the owner— and yes, it was a nude swim in nature! I did lose my glasses, which I will mention later on, but it was worth it for that moment of freedom.
Cape Breton surprised me with its strong Celtic culture — there's even a school for the Gaelic language. By the end of the day, I had driven nearly 600 kilometers, my heart full and my camera full of beauty.
Other stops you can make if you stay longer:
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Stop by Glenora Distillery in Glenville for a quick visit or coffee (optional whisky tasting is available if you wish!).
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Continue to Margaree Harbour — stop at the beach for photos of where the river meets the sea.
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Visit the AcadianChéticampVillage of Chéticamp, known for rug hooking and vibrant cChéticamp
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Lunch in Chéticamp: The Doryman Pub & Grill or Harbour Restaurant (seafood and great view).
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Continue north to Pleasant Bay and visit the Whale Interpretive Centre.
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On the east side of the Trail, you can find Breakfast: Coffee and a bagel at the hostel or in Baddeck (try High Wheeler Café).
💡 Travel Tips for a 60-something Solo Woman
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Driving: Roads are well-maintained; allow extra time for scenic stops. Avoid driving after dark on the Trail. If you're not comfortable driving, consider joining a guided tour for a stress-free experience.
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Packing essentials: Layers (for quick weather changes), a light rain jacket, walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle.
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Safety: Cape Breton is a haven for solo women travelers. The locals are not only friendly but also incredibly helpful, making it one of the safest places to visit.
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Timing: The ideal time to visit Cape Breton is from early June to October. Planning your trip during these months will ensure you don't miss out on the stunning fall colors in September!
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Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty — download maps in advance.
Smart Move and Slip-up pairings
Lost my reading glasses while in Cape Breton, on the Cabot Trail. I needed them for many reading activities, so that was a first on the trip after 10 weeks of solo travel. They must have fallen out of my pocket when I was going swimming in the Lake. I had a spare pair and was able to buy another one in a shop a few days later in Peggy's Cove. This experience taught me the importance of securing personal items, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
Resources Roundup
What are the ten best drives? Pacific Highway, California, Route 93 Canada and USA, Highway 362 Quebec, Dalton Highway, Alaska, Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire, Route 100 Vermont, Northern Spain, Rhine River, Southern Hills of Italy, and The Ring of Kerry, Ireland.
According to the book "10 Best of Everything," those are the top 10. I would add this as #11, Cabot Trail.
See show notes.
5 Steps to Solo Travel website
Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page
Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group
Dr.Travelbest on YouTube