Dr Mary Travelbest Guide
You can travel at your age, level, status, and interest. Wherever you are in your journey through life, take a minute to consider where you want to travel and our tips will help you get there and our mistakes will make you smile, knowing you got this! Dr Mary Travelbest wrote "5 Steps to Solo Travel", and knows what you need to get going, one woman at a time.
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Travel Planning: Peru
07/25/2025
Travel Planning: Peru
Where in the world am I? Peru planning Hi there. I'm Dr. Mary Travelbest, returning from a recent trip to Asia. I'm in San Diego now, sharing my best travel ideas and working on another book for you to enjoy: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, Part C. I'm about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world. Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener named Raquel from Peru. She has been a friend for 40 years and has encouraged me to travel to Lima since then. She created all the images and designs for my first published travel book in 1993. She's been a friend for swimming in the ocean, concerts, joint baby showers, the funeral for her eldest son, and many shared life experiences. She's an awesome traveler and has a lot of advice for me. Where am I headed? Peru Lima Daytime: Stroll the clifftop Malecón in Miraflores for Pacific views, then relax on Playa Waikiki (the closest swimmable stretch). Evening – Barranco bohemian district (street art, safe pedestrian areas). Airport → MA iraflores taxi ≈ Ucosts S $20. The Etropolitano bus is cheaper but busy. Keep valuables close . Lima is generally safe but practices big‑city vigilance. The next day, Cusco Early Sky Airline or LATAM flight (1 hr 15 min; from ~US $31 one‑way) to acclimate gradually. Light walking tour of Plaza de Armas, San Blas artisans, coca‑tea stops. Book a morning flight so you can nap on arrival. Day 3 Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley) Shared van tour Pisac market & terraces → Ollantaytambo ruins. Stay here to cut altitude (2 800 m vs Cusco 3 400 m) and be close to the train. Hostel examples: Mama Simona (~US $25 private). Day 4 Aguas Calientes PeruRail Expedition train 07:45 or 10:32 (~1 h 40 min). Check‑in, soak in town hot springs, early bed. Expedition seats run ~US $65–75 each way. Peru Rail Day 5 – MACHU PICCHU DAY Cusco (late) or Aguas Calientes (optional 2nd night) Cusco Free day: San Pedro market breakfast, Qorikancha, café break, optional half‑day Moray & Maras salt ponds tour. Morning flight Cusco → Lima; same‑ticket connection onward to Brazil (buffer at least three hours in Lima). Don't-Miss Beach Breaks If you'd like another ocean fix before Brazil, dedicate half a day to a Punta Hermosa day trip (1 hr south‑bound bus/Colectivo, US $4‑5). Choose calm Playa Caballeros for swimming or Playa Norte for quieter coves; eateries serve fresh ceviche on‑the‑sand. Machu Picchu in Detail – 1 June Step What to do Tips & costs. 1. Tickets (book now!) Buy on tuboleto. Culture.pe—choose Circuit 2B (Classic Lower Terrace) for the iconic postcard view with moderate stairs. It costs 172 PEN ≈ US $45. Sales for 2025 opened on 19 Dec 2024; the daily cap is 5,6000, so June slots sell out early. Peru Rail El País 2. Train 06:10 Inca Rail or 07:45 PeruRail Expedition from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes; arrive 08:30‑09:30. Sit on the left‑hand side for Urubamba River views. Peru Rail 3. Bus up. Buy a Consettur round‑trip ticket (US $24) at the kiosk the night before; the first buses roll at 05:30, and it's a 25-minute ride. Ticket Machu Picchu 4. Entry window Aim for the 09:00–10:00 slot (good light, less 6 am crowd, still before midday haze). Passport + ticket & small day‑pack only. 5. Guided visit (≈ 2 h) Hire certified guide at gate (~US $15 pp shared) to explore: Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Intihuatana, Three Windows. 6. Optional short hike Huchuy Picchu add‑on (easy 1 km, 30‑40 min, extra 48 PEN) – great summit photo without the steep drop of Huayna Picchu. Ticket Machu Picchu 7. Lunch & return Picnic outside gate (no food inside), stamp passport, bus down, 16:20 train back to Cusco (arr. 20:30) or stay 1 more night at Aguas Calientes if you prefer a slower pace. Packing checklist: passport, printed tickets, layers (cool mornings/hot sun), rain shell, 1 L refillable bottle (no disposables), DEET, sunblock, walking poles with rubber tips, cash for snacks & toilets (2 soles). Altitude & health: Machu Picchu sits at 2 430 m—easier than Cusco, but you'll feel stairs. Hydrate, avoid alcohol the evening prior, and ask your doctor about acetazolamide if you've struggled with altitude before. Budget Snapshot (USD per person) Item Low Notes Lima hostel (2 nts) 2 × $20 – $40 Pariwana or Selina Miraflores (female‑only dorm vs private). LI‑CU round‑trip flights $70 – $120 Book early; Sky basic fare includes 8 kg carry‑on only. Cusco/Ollanta/Aguas stays (5 nts) 5 × $18 – $35 Mix of hostels & guest‑houses with private bath options. Trains (round‑trip) $130 – $150 Expedition or IncaRail Voyager class. Machu Picchu entry and bus: $45 ticket + $24 bus + $15 guide. Add $13 for Huchuy Picchu. Food & local transport $25/day × 7 ≈ $175 Menu del día lunches ~$4–6; airport shuttles, colectivos. Approx. Total $600–$750. It leaves room for souvenirs or a Paracas day trip. Safe & Comfortable Stays City Budget‑friendly, mature‑traveler‑approved Approx. price (private, en‑suite) Lima Ibis Budget Miraflores (hotel), Wasi Barranco (B&B) $40–60 Cusco Niños Hotel (supports local kids), Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi $38–55 Ollantaytambo El Albergue (historic hostel‑hotel blend) $65 (splurge), dorms $25 Aguas Calientes Supertramp Eco‑Hostel (quiet female dorm), Terrazas del Inca $22–50 Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip Book everything online in advance, including flights, trains, Machu Picchu tickets, and buses, to beat lines and lock in cheaper fares. Cash is still king in small villages—carry small sol notes; ATMs are plentiful in Lima & Cusco. Stay seaside savvy: Lima's Pacific is cold (wetsuits for surfers). Swim only on signed "safe" sections and watch rip currents. Lifeguards patrol Punta Hermosa in peak daylight hours. Solo safety basics: use registered taxis (Taxi Beat or Cabify apps), avoid isolated beach areas at night, and keep photocopies of your passport in separate bags. Enjoy Peru's vibrant coast, Andean culture, and the wonder of Machu Picchu If you like today's Confidence Challenge, Chapter 3 of my book dives deeper My brother says, "Never run in an airport," and that's excellent advice. My sister says, when you get to a new place, tell yourself it's the "first" time you will visit, but not the last. If you are looking for more solo female resources, you can find several tips and ways to navigate the pitfalls with Rick Steves and Lonely Planet travel guides. The takeaway mantra is to see where the world takes you. You can travel solo and never be alone. Dr. Travelbest.
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Travel Planning: Brazil
06/28/2025
Travel Planning: Brazil
Where in the world am I? Brazil planning Hi there. I’m Dr. Mary Travelbest, returning from a recent trip to Asia. I’m in San Diego now, sharing my best travel ideas and working on another book for you to enjoy: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, Part C. I’m about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world. Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener named Juliana who is from Brazil. She was a student of mine and now she works with me. She gave me a list of all the places in Brazil that I should be going to.She and I have known each other for 3 years. She’s so beautiful and full of life. I’m so grateful for. Quick fire FAQ: The FAQ for today is: Should I carry books with me to read on the trip? I recommend you download them from your local or cloud library. Then you read on the go. Don’t carry more than you need. 3 things: neighborhood selection, daylight itineraries, scam avoidance Select neighborhoods that are walkable and have public transportation nearby if you don't drive. Read reviews on the AirBNB website before you select. When booking a flight or train, be sure it arrives at a daylight time, which can differ in winter months. If it comes after dark, it will be more of a challenge for you. To avoid scams, be cautious when choosing passwords, logging out of websites, and making online purchases. These are very typical scams. If you are suspicious, you may be right to avoid that vendor and choose another. Don’t look like a target, either Today’s destination is: Brazil. Optimized for a budget‑minded solo woman in her 60s who loves beaches, nature, and a relaxed—but organized—pace. Date Overnight Key plans How to get around Budget tips & cautions Rio de Janeiro (Leme / Copacabana) • Easy sunset stroll along Copacabana & watch locals at Arpoador point. • For a light dinner, try a fresh‑juice “sucos” bar and a tapioca crêpe. Take a taxi or Uber from GIG airport (≈ R$75). Choose a sea‑view “quarto feminine” at Selina Copacabana (~US $45 priv.). Keep valuables hidden on the beach. Wed 4 Jun Rio • Christ the Redeemer early (08:00 train from Cosme Velho). • Ride the Santa Teresa Tram then lunch in a colonial café. • Late afternoon cable car up Sugarloaf for golden‑hour photos. Day‑pass on RioCard metro + tram; cable/Uber for Sugarloaf. Buy Sugarloaf ticket online to skip queue; take a light jacket—windy on top. Rio Choose your mini‑escape ① Nature: half‑day to Prainha & Grumari wild beaches (shared van tour). ② Culture: ferry to Niterói for Niemeyer‑designed MAC museum & quiet Itacoatiara beach. ③ History: cool mountain air in imperial Petrópolis (bus 2 h). Tours or local buses; all safe in daylight. Pack reef‑safe sunscreen—Rio’s winter sun still strong. Foz do Iguaçu Morning flight RIO → IGU (1 h 45 m; promo fares from US $68 one‑way) Drop bags, then spend the afternoon on the Brazilian side catwalks for sweeping views of Iguazu Falls (entry R$199 ≈ US $39) iguazufalls.com End day at Parque das Aves bird sanctuary (1 hr) iguazufalls.com Bus 120 links airport ↔ falls ↔ downtown. Taxi to hotel after dark. Stay at Tarobá Express (single en‑suite ~US $40, rooftop pool). Foz do Iguaçu Full‑day hop into Argentina’s Iguazú National Park for the Devil’s Throat boardwalk & eco‑train (passport needed, no visa/fee for US). Evening option: Itaipu Dam illumination tour. Shared shuttle (~US $25 rt) handles border formalities. Bring ARS pesos or pay by card for Arg. park ticket (US $45) iguazufalls.com .São Paulo Morning nonstop IGU → GRU (1 h 35 m; fares from US $56) KAYAK . Walk tree‑lined Paulista Avenue, pop into MASP art museum (free Sun mornings), coffee in Vila Madalena murals. Airport bus to Paulista (R$55) or Uber. Metro is clean & safe in daytime. Base yourself in Ibis Paulista or female pod at Selina Aurora (~US $50). São Paulo • Morning in Ibirapuera Park—rent a bike or visit Afro‑Brasil Museum (opens 10 am) Tripadvisor . • Afternoon at Municipal Market (pastel de bacalhau!) & nearby Pinacoteca gallery. Metro Brigadeiro ↔ Luz. Watch bags on busy Linha 3 Red line; pickpockets work in crowds. São Paulo Relaxed day‑trip choices: ① Santos coast: historic coffee port + beach promenade (1 h 30 m bus). ② Embu das Artes craft town (45 min EMTU bus). Buy a round‑trip bus ticket; depart before dusk. Wed 11 Jun — Free morning for souvenir shopping on Paulista, then head to GRU airport for onward flight. Allow 3 hours pre‑international departure. Essential Practicalities E‑visa now required for U.S. visitors entering Brazil from 10 Apr 2025; online application fee US $80.90 and proof of ≈ US $2 000 funds (3 bank statements) are needed. Apply at least 3 weeks ahead. VFSE Visa New York Post Weather: Early June is Brazil’s mild winter—pleasant 72 °F / 22 °C in Rio & São Paulo, warmer at Iguazu (upper 70s °F) with possible mist; pack a light rain shell for the falls. Money: ATMs are plentiful. Withdraw in R$ and use cards where possible. Carry small notes for kiosks, buses, and street food. Health & safety: No yellow fever shot is demanded for the coast, but it is recommended for the Iguazu region. Wear non‑slip shoes on Iguazu catwalks (spray makes surfaces slick). Use registered taxis or ride‑share at night; avoid deserted beach stretches after dark. Language: Basic Portuguese greetings go a long way; Spanish is understood in Iguazu. Learn “Obrigado” (thank you from a woman). Hand‑Picked Stays (private room prices, low‑season) City Comfortable & friendly Approx. US $ Why you’ll like it Rio Selina Copacabana (female dorm or priv.), Ibis Budget Botafogo 35–60 24 h desk, beach steps away, rooftop bar. Foz Tarobá Express, Che Lagarto Hostel 35–45 Central, free shuttle to falls stop, tour desk. SP Ibis Paulista, Soul Hostel (single) $45–60. It is Walkable to the metro and lively but safe at night. Quick Activity Bucket‑List Region Must‑do Nice extra Rio Watch sunrise from Leme end of Copacabana; Sugarloaf cable car; caipirinha & bossa‑nova in Lapa. Short jungle hike to Mirante Dois Irmãos for postcard view. Iguazu “Devil’s Throat” platform roar; boat‑ride under the falls (waterproof bag!). Evening jungle moon‑bow walk (full‑moon nights only). São Paulo MASP’s suspended concrete gallery; bike Ibirapuera lagoon; coffee tasting at Octavio Café. Live samba at Bar Brahma or vinyl jazz in Vila Madalena. Approximate Trip Budget (USD) Category Rio (3 nts) Iguazu (2 nts) São Paulo (3 nts) Total Lodging $150 $80 $150 $380 Flights (internal) — RIO→IGU $68 IGU→GRU $64 $132 Inter‑city buses / ferries $20 $25 (Arg. shuttle) $25 (Santos) $70 Sight tickets & tours $65 $110 $40 $215 Meals & local transit $30/day × 8 $240 Grand estimate ≈ $1 040 (Budget assumes dorm‑style breakfast included and a few splurges; private rooms or extra tours will raise totals.) Enjoy Brazil’s unbeatable mix of beach life, rainforest thundering waterfalls, and South America’s most cosmopolitan metropolis—at a tempo that feels adventurous yet comfortable. Boa viagem! Smart Move and Slip up pairings Brazil slip ups, are that there’s no way I can see all of the country in a week. So I have to be very picky about only going to the Rio and Sao Paolo regions, and possibly Iguazu Falls, if that works out and I am able physically and mentally. Can you figure out A RAH LO Local, regional, and global esims Local towers and networks in that country. Anticipate which eSim you need. Whole wide world 90 days $59 for me. My first time in India, I thought it was part of Asia. I found out that I missed out the night before I was leaving. Supported countries. Read that carefully. It helps you make a decision. My code to get $3.00 off is MARY2856. You get the discount, and I get the credit. Timer won’t start counting down until you get to the country you are traveling to, and once it connects, the plan will start—for example, 30 days and 5 Gig. Validity starts when you get there. Refill as needed. 5G devices Watch this video for instructions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi1Cb1tEeSI Resources Roundup How do you travel if you don’t know anyone who can go with you, and maybe you want to see some unique places that no one you know cares about? Maybe you want to travel because you never saw these places while you raised your children and supported the family. You may want to visit where you were born and want to do it on your own. You may want to lie on a beach in Tahiti and have a long nap. How does one get to do this? We will help you with instruction, guidance, and good stories. This book must be published now because 14.8% of women are over 65, and most outlive their spouses. Another large chunk of women are in their 50s and early 60s and have years of activity to go. Plus, there are 38 million members of AARP, many looking for active choices on how they live and travel. Gone are the days of your travel agent booking your paper airline ticket. You will not likely contact a travel agent for your trip. The more we understand others and their cultures, the more we can get along with them. Dr. Mary Travelbest is like Rick Steves for Women adventure travelers who are seasoned in years but have yet to gain travel experience. My daughter, my co-author, Tina, and I have been traveling since she was born 22 years ago. She’s also made many solo trips, including visiting her sister in China for a month this year. She’s completed her degree in Business, working on a Master’s degree, and living/working in the San Francisco area. This book needs to be published so the Golden Years can be just that for those who like active travel. The take 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.
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2025 Eurail Travel Planning Guide and sinus relief
06/20/2025
2025 Eurail Travel Planning Guide and sinus relief
Where in the world am I? Eurail Travel planning Hi there, I’m Dr. Mary Travelbest. I’m in San Diego now, sharing my best travel ideas and working on another book for you to enjoy: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, Part C. I’m about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world. Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener named Kristen. Kristen loves to travel. She recently received a Fullbright Scholarship and took a trip with her husband and sons to a foreign country, Portugal, for several months. She’s full of great travel ideas and will be helpful as I continue to travel and make my adventures more mobile. She’s encouraging me to keep going in my travels and is a professor in Southern California. Quick fire FAQ: The FAQ for today is: Do you find that air travel dries your sinuses? Do you get dry and scratchy throats afterward? Yes, it happens. Let’s talk about how to rid yourself of this in advance. How to avoid the dryness of airline flights? The answer: My solution is Saline Nasal Spray. I bought the 1.5-oz size for $4.00, which will last my entire trip. Before you get dry sinuses, squirt some in each nostril and then relax as it goes to work. What are the ingredients? Water, sodium chloride, disodium phosphate, benzyl alcohol, sodium phosphate, and benzalkonium chloride. Water and salt. There are three ways to use it: Squeeze twice in each nostril, and it delivers a spray, a stream, and a drop upside down. Take your pick. 60-second confidence challenge Advice for Active Seniors : “There is no shame in prioritizing and slowing down vs. overdoing. Most injuries happen when people are rushing. “Go slower, arrive sooner” is a helpful mantra.” (Ellen McCabe) If you like today’s Confidence Challenge, Chapter 2 of my book dives deeper buy it on Amazon or See Book A for addressing all of these items. Today’s destination is Eurail Travel Planning I said: You are traveling in Europe in the Summer of 2025. You arrive in Athens, Greece, then go to Krakow, Warsaw, Poland, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, and end in Edinburgh, Scotland, where you leave the EU. You will travel for five weeks. How many days will you want to use the Eurail pass for trains and ferries? Plan the trip, including seat fees and senior discounts with these countries, and suggest other places that would be a good stopping point or worth seeing. I am a solo woman in my prime. Include a mention of the low-cost airlines that I should take when not on the train or ferry. Answer: 1 Where a Eurail day genuinely saves you money Below is every leg: (a) scenic or pricey at full fare and (b) covered or discounted by the pass if the trip is a low-fare train, like under $10.regional hop, we skip the past day and just pay cash—why burn powder you might need later? 1 Day 3 Athens → Kalabaka €3 IC seat Sunset over Meteora cliffs—worth the four-hour train. 2 Day 5 Kalabaka → Thessaloníki free (regional) No supplement, but one more travel day. 3 Day 9 Krakow → Oświęcim (return) free (regional) Auschwitz day trip; counts once. 4 Day 11 Krakow → Warsaw (EIP) ~PLN 35 ≈ €8 High‑speed, mandatory seat. 5 Day 13 Warsaw → Gdańsk or Toruń (optional) PLN 3 ≈ €0.70 Use if you “dive” north. 6 Day 16 Tallinn → Helsinki ferry deck = free; cabin = ‑20 % Tallink Silja It counts oas ne travel day. 7 Day 17 Helsinki → Tampere & back €0–€6 VR seat Eurail Pendolino; book in app. 8 Day 19 Helsinki o/night ferry → Stockholm deck = free; cabin –20 % Same Tallink perk. 9 Day 21 Stockholm → Uppsala (return) €0 (regional) Same‑day out‑and‑back. 10 Day 22 Stockholm → Gothenburg ≈ €7 SJ seat Eurail Community 3 h X2000. 11 Day 23 Gothenburg → Oslo free No reservations. 12 Day 25 Oslo → Bergen ≈ NOK 50 ≈ €4 seat Bergensbanen panorama. 13 Day 26 Bergen → Flåm train + Nærøyfjord boat boat covered A rail‑and‑fjord combo. 14 Day 30 Copenhagen → Roskilde day‑trip ≈ €9 seat Eurail Vikings have & an easy return. 15 Day 32 Edinburgh → Inverness £0–£5 seat UK still in the Eurail network. * Fees are 2ᵈ ‑class, summer 2025 published rates. Total Eurail travel days = 15 – the cap of the 15‑days‑in‑2‑months Senior Global Pass 2 What about the long, awkward gaps? Why wrestle with two‑day rail marathons when a 90‑minute hop costs less than your hostel? Segment Suggested airline(s) Typical July fare if bought 3 mo ahead Thessaloníki ✈ Krakow Ryanair, Aegean €55–€85 Warsaw ✈ Tallinn airBaltic, LOT, Ryanair €45–€90 Bergen ✈ Copenhagen Norwegian, SAS €65–€110 Copenhagen ✈ Edinburgh easyJet, Ryanair, Norwegian €40–€80 Question: could you train Thessaloníki→Krakow via Budapest? Yes—but it burns 2‑3 pass days plus €30‑€45 in night‑train supplements. The low‑cost flight is simply cheaper and quicker. 3 Five‑week skeleton itinerary Week Base & ideas Safety‑first extras for a 65‑yr‑old solo traveler 1 Athens 3 d – dawn Acropolis, Plaka food walk → train to Meteora 2 d (monastery sunsets) → Thessaloníki 2 d for Byzantine walls & waterfront. Central hotels near Syntagma & Aristotelous squares; use the eat taxi app after dark. 2 Fly to Krakow 3 d (+ Auschwitz) → Warsaw 2 d → optional day to Toruń or Gdańsk. Women‑only dorms at Greg & Tom (Krakow) and OkiDoki (Warsaw); trains arrive before dusk. 3 Fly to Tallinn 2 d → ferry to Helsinki 3 d with day‑trip to Tampere—Telliskivi creative city, Suomenlinna flat walks; Bolt taxis for late returns. 4 Night ferry to Stockholm 3 d (+ Uppsala) → train to Gothenburg 2 d → rail to Oslo 2 d. Stockholm hostel “City Backpackers” has curtained bunks; carry Rail Planner live‑trip link to share location. 5 Oslo‑Bergen rail & fjords 3 d → Fly to Copenhagen 3 d (+ Roskilde) → Fly to Edinburgh; finish with Highlands loop 4 d (Inverness, Aviemore hikes) before departure. Fjord cruise boats have good handrails; Scottish B&Bs offer single rooms beside stations. 4 Is the pass still worth it? That’s $200-250 saved, plus the flexibility to reroute if wildfires, strikes, or your whims intervene. 5 Quick checklist before you lock it in Buy the Senior Global Pass (15 days/2 months) before prices rise. Book the four trains with limited seats (EIP Poland, X2000 Sweden, Bergensbanen, Copenhagen reservations) as soon as reservations open—usually 60–90 days in advance. Use the Rail Planner app to activate travel days on the morning you board; keep two blanks until the very end in case you shuffle plans. Flights: watch Friday flash sales on Ryanair/Norwegian; they routinely drop < €30. Pack a light, wheeled 40‑L bag—no one checks size on regional trains, but lugging a 20 kg suitcase up ferry gangways is zero fun. Bottom line A skeptical eye shows the numbers add up: 15 Eurail travel days + four strategic low‑cost flights cover an ambitious five‑week arc for under-in rail/ferry costs and ~€250 in airfares. You keep maximum flexibility, minimize marathon journey fatigue, and “dive” into side trips whenever the mood strikes. Smart Move and Slip up pairings Pack the small bag. Try it. Don’t take the big suitcase. 60-second confidence challenge If you like today’s Confidence Challenge, Chapter 2 of my book dives deeper—link in the description. I traveled to France for the first time on a budget over an extended weekend. She got a bargain airfare from San Diego to Paris, and a friend invited her to stay with her. Do you have a friend like this? Take them up on the offer. The author was a contestant in the Worldwide Competition of Beaujolais Wine Fest, held in Paris annually. The author represented the USA, and the team ranked second in this global competition. We created a short skit representing the colorful history of the USA, and our team performed this at 41 locations along The Avenue des Champs-Élysées. When you go to Paris, make your reservations in advance for the Eiffel Tower. We could only get a reservation at 11:15 pm, several weeks in advance. That is a don’t miss experience as an independent traveler. Resources Roundup Why should you go? Keep on saying “yes” because you know you should. Stepping out of your comfort zone allows you to enjoy life, innovate, explore, appreciate nature, and create your personal pleasure experience. You can make a confidence spike when you face your fear of going alone as it builds your independence. Facing your fears is a well-known method of building inner strength. (Source: ILSC You will naturally face some problems on your journey. For example, health problems, delays in traffic, oversleeping, money problems, and others. These kinds of issues help develop your skills in personal responsibilities and adaptability, according to an expert in travel education, India’s Kanako Imamoto. The skills of adaptability and responsibility are built through the process of dealing with problems. You will also have experiences, and that is important. One of these is about communications. We can’t travel without communicating with others because there are many people involved in travel and moving around, and sometimes, you’ll be on a trip with others. So you can develop the ability to cooperate with others. 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. Thanks for listening.
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Best of D. C. Smithsonian Museums
06/13/2025
Best of D. C. Smithsonian Museums
This is a Best of..... Have any questions? Please ask. The photo was taken by me on the grounds of one of the many museums of the Smithsonian.
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Train Travel: SLO to San Diego and Gluten Free Travel
06/06/2025
Train Travel: SLO to San Diego and Gluten Free Travel
Episode title: SLO to San Diego by Train, GF Diets, and a Confidence Challenge Hi there. I’m Dr. Mary Travelbest, a world traveler who has traveled solo for over 50 years. I'm coming to you after a recent trip to Asia. I visited Taiwan and South Korea for 10 days. I’m here to share my best travel ideas and work on solo travel. I’m about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world solo again. The aim is world peace through cultural exchange. I’m about to travel the world for 90 days. Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener who recently retired as a dental hygienist. Her name is Cathy A. She’s been a big supporter of this podcast. She is traveling to Wisconsin to see her family and attend reunions. She’s enjoying her retirement by playing Marjan and. She recently sold her house and moved back into a condo she had bought decades before marriage. Her contractor husband fixed it up to her specs before they moved in, and she’s so happy. She’ll be traveling a lot more soon. Quick fire FAQ: The FAQ for today is: How can I find the right foods when I travel? I am gluten-free, and I have a hard time finding the right foods. First, you can use trusten gluten-free apps, but don’t trust them completely. Find me gluten-free options. The GF scanner, Yuka, and Happy Cow are three to check out. Find Me Gluten Free is a restaurant review site for gluten-free diners, primarily focused on the US, but with some unreliable data. The second is a scanner for reading labels with gluten information. The third is mostly for vegans and vegetarians, but it also filters for gluten-free. Here are some more tips for GF travel. Learn Local Phrases, For example, Celiac Travel. Bring Printed translation cards Book accommodations with kitchens or fridges. Shop local Be wary of street food, buffets, and Gluten-friendly menus. These are not medically safe. Bring a stash of protein bars, GF crackers, or instant oats. Use Facebook or Reddit Gluten-Free Travel Groups. Check Airline and airport dining in advance. Red Flag countries' Awareness or Labeling Laws. 60-second confidence challenge 3 things: neighborhood selection, daylight itineraries, scam avoidance Select walkable neighborhoods with public transportation nearby if you don't drive. Read reviews on the AirBNB website before you select. When booking a flight or train, be sure it arrives during daylight hours, which can vary in winter months. If it comes after dark, it will be more challenging. To avoid scams, be cautious when choosing passwords, logging out of websites, and making online purchases. These are very typical scams. If you are suspicious, you may be right to avoid that vendor and choose another. Don’t look like a target, either. If you like today’s Confidence Challenge, Chapter 2 of my book dives deeper— See Book A on Amazon or my website for information on all of these items. Destination Deep‑Dive Today’s destination is: “Amtrak Coastal Sampler: San Luis Obispo to San Diego” Do you love train travel? Have you considered Amtrak? I took one of the very best train trips on July 4. I started in San Luis Obispo, known as SLO to the locals. I was the only passenger in first class who picked me up at 5 pm. The porter greeted me happily and brought me snacks and drinks. The entire night was like a dream. I could see fireworks in hundreds of cities along the path to San Diego. I did transfer trains in Los Angeles, but even then, I could see a lot of fireworks. This was a treat. I was the only one in the car until we got close to San Diego, about a 5-hour trip. What is there to do in SLO? The beauty of the area will take your breath away. Your taste buds will be treated to incredible tastes from many choices. Your thirst will be quenched with fresh wine and beers from the local wineries and breweries. The weather is almost always great here, too. Slip-ups and smart moves One thing I messed up was not downloading the e-ticket before I reached the poor Wi-Fi zones on the train. But the fix is easy. Just download and take a screenshot of the ticket when you're preparing for the trip and have a good Wi-Fi connection. Practice: Test out your local commuter train and take a ride this weekend. 60-second confidence challenge Have you been on a train lately? Practice: Test your local commuter train and ride this weekend. Buy the ticket on your phone, then validate it before boarding the train. If your train requires a ticket screenshot, take that before you board. Resources Roundup: If you're looking for more female solo resources, you can find several tips and ways to navigate the pitfalls. Check out the 5 Steps to Solo Travel, Part A, the audiobook, or Part B. They are available in eBook and paperback formats on Amazon. The ebook is also available on my website. Take away mantra. You can travel solo and never be alone. Dr. Travelbest. Thanks for listening! Please send me your travel stories or questions. Listen for the next episode next week and the 320 plus episodes waiting for you to get going.
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Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan
05/30/2025
Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan
Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan FAQ Should I use public transportation abroad? Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan Lesson Learned: Don’t schedule everything Day 1 Travel Tip: Trust your gut instincts, if unsure, pivot fast. FAQ Response: Should I use public transportation abroad? Yes, you should try it at the least, but not in rush hour with all of your luggage. One way to test it out is to try it early in the morning, before rush-hour workers arrive, but while it’s still light outside. Most of the time, you only need a card to swipe, and you can add money to the card when you need to. Your first care purchase is often at a self-service kiosk, and usually there is English translations here. Go for it and try. Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan This scenic region reminded me of Lake Tahoe, California. If you are coming you will Arrive in Taoyuan airport and take the train to the Taipei Main Station and take the HSR train to Taichung City which comes about every 30 minutes and takes about an hour. Bus to Sun Moon Lake, which comes at least hourly. The total cost to get there is about $25, and it takes about 3 hours. To drive, you would take about 2.5 hours and save a few dollars. 🏨 Where to Stay? There are several hotels and resorts. My room at the Harbor Resort was not ready when I arrived, so I walked around the lake in the meantime. Here are a few other places, listed from most expensive to least expensive. Luxury/Comfort: Fleur de Chine Hotel – thermal spa access, lakeside views, wellness focus Midrange/Solo-Friendly: The Crystal Resort or Hotel Del Lago – walking distance to bike paths and pier Budget/Unique: Sun Moon Lake Youth Activity Center – traditional wooden lodge vibes 🌅 Sun Moon Lake Itinerary (4 Days) Day 1 – Afternoon: Arrive via bus to the (Shoe-is-he) Shuishe Pier area Check in + light walk along the Shuishe Lakeside Trail (flat, peaceful) Evening: Early dinner of local fish and mountain vegetables at Full House Resort Restaurant or a local restaurant nearby. Sunset viewing from Wenwu Temple stairs (lit up at night) local tea tasting at Sun Moon Lake Antique Assam Tea Farm Day 2 – Biking the Lake & Culture Morning: Rent an e-bike or mountain bike and ride the Sun Moon Lake Cycle Route — voted one of the top cycling paths globally Stop at: Ci'en Pagoda, Xiangshan Visitor Center, and (May-he) Meihe Garden The full loop is approximately 18 miles; consider a half-loop if you're feeling leisurely. There are places where you need to dismount and walk it. Some days, you may not be able to go the full distance, so ask. Afternoon: Take the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway (cable car) to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. Learn about the Thao, spelled T-H-A-O) and other cultural groups Optional: garden strolls Return via cable car or ferry. Evening: Relaxing soak at your hotel’s onsen-style hot springs Dinner at The Lalu’s Moon Pavilion Restaurant for lakeside fine dining (worth it solo!) Day 3 – Hiking + Temples Morning: Hike the Maolan Mountain Trail or Tsen Pagoda Trail for panoramic lake views and forest immersion Easy to moderate; solo-safe and well-marked Afternoon: Visit Xuanzang Temple – peaceful with Buddhist relics. Snack on local tea eggs and tofu pudding from lakeside stalls Evening: Night market (seasonal, usually in Shuishe or Ita Thao area) – solo-friendly and fun for grazing Optional: Boat cruise at dusk (join a group tour or private hire) Day 4 – Tea + Departure Optional walk in Xiangshan Forest Trail for one last quiet moment Safety, Solo Vibes & Tips Taiwan is ranked one of the safest destinations for solo female travelers (source: Global Peace Index) English signage is plentiful in Sun Moon Lake; locals are helpful but modest. Google Translate, and Pleco app help with communication. I used the Line app for texting here. Public bathrooms are clean and common Tap water is not typically drunk directly — use filtered water. Lesson Learned: Don’t schedule everything on Day 1 Travel Tip: Trust your gut instincts, if unsure, pivot fast. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Seoul, South Korea and travel insurance comparisons
05/23/2025
Seoul, South Korea and travel insurance comparisons
Seoul, Korea episode Listener Story Spotlight A friend and a listener named Lois recently went to Hawaii. She told me she spent much time getting travel insurance for herself and her partner. She had to pay more than she expected as her partner was having a birthday between the day she bought the service and the day of the trip. But she said it was well worth it for her peace of mind. The FAQ for today is: Where to find the best travel insurance for a long trip abroad. 1. Start with a neutral comparison engine; you can see this in the show notes. Why use it first? Where to click Smart filters to enable It lets you price 30-day single-trip plans from dozens of underwriters side-by-side, then click through to the policy certificate in one step. Squaremouth (toggle "Comprehensive" or "Medical-only" to see apples-to-apples pricing). Medical ≥ $100k, Evac≥ $250k, "Cancel for Any Reason" if you want maximum flexibility. Gives you consumer-written claim reviews plus AM Best financial ratings in the results grid. InsureMyTrip (same data feed as Squaremouth but different sort logic). Add "PIf relevant, existing condition waiver" if rek "Adventure sports" if you'll hike or dive. Pulls quotes from some insurers that don't feed aggregators (e.g., Allianz's higher-tier plans) and lists A.M. Best scores. TravelInsurance.com Use the "24/7 assistance" toggle to see which plans outsource helplines. Skeptical check: All three make a commission, and none of them has every carrier. Run your trip through at least two engines and see if the so-called "cheapest" plan is available. 2. Cross-reference with an independent ranking list U.S. News "Best Travel Insurance Companies 2025" ranks plans by coverage and claim-paying history—not advertising spend. It's a fast way to see which names (Travelex, Allianz, Tin Leg, etc.) consistently show up in the top tier. 3. See what other solo women say SoloTravelerWorld.com keeps an updated "Best Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers" guide that spells out what to look for if you're traveling alone—single-supplement benefits, harassment coverage, and 24-hour crisis lines. AbsolutelyLucy.com lays out five red flags that matter disproportionately to women (e.g., personal-assault medical limits, emergency contraception exclusions). Read these before you fall for glossy Instagram ads that treat "female-friendly" as a slogan. 4. Kick the tires on the insurer's site If a plan looks good in a marketplace, open the policy certificate directly on the carrier's website (World Nomads, SafetyWing, Allianz, IMG, etc.). World Nomads publishes unfiltered claim reviews, which help sniff out chronic payout delays. 5. Verify what your government will—or won't—do The U.S. State Department's Insurance Coverage Overseas page makes it crystal-clear that Uncle Sam does not pay your hospital bill or med-evac. It also links to the embassy medical resources for every country, which tells you how far the nearest trauma center is from your trekking trail. 6. Double-check your credit-card benefits Cards in your wallet may cover trip delays, baggage loss, or secondary car rental insurance. The Points Guy keeps a running tally of cards whose built-in coverage is worth something and where the gaps are (e.g., no medical evacuation). How to use these resources efficiently Quote your exact dates (don't round your trip to a calendar month; excess days add cost). Filter for medical & Evac first; those two benefits can bankrupt you. Ignore marketing buzzwords like "explorer" or "adventure" until you've opened the PDF certificate and searched for the activity you plan to do. Run your final four shortlist past recent claim reviews (Squaremouth, Trustpilot, Reddit r/solotravel) to see if the carrier ghosted people during COVID or the Israel–Gaza cancellations. You can purchase directly from the insurer once you've chosen, which avoids aggregator change fees if you need to modify dates. Stay curious, question every "Top 10" list's methodology, and you'll land the coverage that fits your risk profile—nothing more, nothing less. 60-second confidence challenge 3 things: neighborhood selection, daylight itineraries, scam avoidance Select walkable neighborhoods with public transportation nearby if you don't drive. Read reviews on the AirBNB website before you select. When booking a flight or train, be sure it arrives at daylight, which can differ in winter months. If it comes after dark, it will be more challenging. To avoid scams, be cautious when choosing passwords, logging out of websites, and making online purchases. These are very typical scams. If you are suspicious, you may be right to avoid that vendor and choose another. Don't look like a target, either. If you like today's Confidence Challenge, Chapter 1 of my book dives deeper—https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com See Book A for addressing all of these items. Find it on the website or Amazon. It's a series. Today's destination is: South Korea I visited South Korea last month. I landed at Seoul's Inchon Airport. My Korean pronunciation is not good, so please understand that as I describe my trip. I was excited to see the city through the eyes of my friend Chris. We were whisked away to a hotpot dinner, then taken to the French neighborhood in Seoul, where we rested for the night. The next morning, we drove south to visit a town about 2 hours away and stayed in Wolbong-ro (Road), in Seobuk-gu, near SeongJeong. For example, the Seoul Noryyanglin Fisheries Wholesale Market is five stories tall and open to the public. It's worth seeing if you like seafood, and you can roam the aisles looking for your favorite fish delicacies. I visited the Vovo Bidet company and met with the director and some of his team. Have you seen the #1 Bidet firm in Korea? They have retail and wholesale offices in the Los Angeles area, too. I liked the tour of the offices here in Seoul. They even have a Bidet to go. Think about that for a minute. That was in Daebang-dong or Seocho4-dong. I visited retail stores such as Zara, one of my favorites for fashion. I had Chinese, Japanese, and Fusion foods. I took subways, busses, taxis, and Ubers plus trains. I went to Gwannghumun Square, the purple Station #9. I went to the shopping mall called The Hyundai. and found stores like Zanmang Loopy, the Hyundai Present, and a great coffee and tea shop. I learned about Hanguel, the Korean alphabet, and saw the statue of Sejong the Great. There was also another statue of Admiral YiSun Sin. The Bukchon Honok Village is a quiet residential area. Jogyasa Temple is where you will see Buddism. Hongdae is the neighborhood for independent artists. Yonsei University was a place I wanted to visit next time, as I was in the neighborhood and liked it a lot. Gangnam style, well, maybe next time. I tried new foods, such as mung bean pancakes and hotleok desserts. We had a wonderful dinner at Sushi-ya Shabu-ya, about an hour from Seoul, near Korea Nazarene University in Cheonan-si-Buldang1-dong. Recommended: Relax in a tea house. Smart Move and Slip up pairings In Korea, we were departing from the airport without enough money on our transit cards, so we could not enter the building. Instead, we had to see the office at the kiosk and pay for the train. It was not much, but it did take a few minutes. We arrived well ahead of the recommended 3 hours, so that was not an issue. 60 second confidence challenge Do you or don't you tip? Not in South Korea. But it's always smart to ask. Be confident when you know what the expectations are. Resources Roundup If you are looking for more solo female travel resources, you can find several tips and ways to navigate the pitfalls, such as paying the difference on the transit card when you go long distances or knowing when to tip. When you get lost, don't get upset. Get found. You will be better off if you cool down instead of heating your brain incorrectly. Chill, and you'll be found sooner. Dr. Travelbest’s tip #760.
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Travel Planning: Ecuador
05/16/2025
Travel Planning: Ecuador
Ecuador: 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.
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Travel Planning: Colombia
05/09/2025
Travel Planning: Colombia
Travel 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. 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 La Candelaria: Explore this historic district with its colonial architecture, museums, and street art. Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Home to an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá: Consider a guided tour to this unique underground cathedral carved within a salt mine. 2 days in : Cartagena Walled City: Stroll through the historic center with its colonial buildings, plazas, and cafes. Getsemaní: Experience the local art scene and vibrant nightlife in this bohemian neighborhood. Rosario Islands: Consider a boat tour to these nearby islands for a relaxing beach day. 3 days in Medellín Comuna 13: Join a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood's transformation and vibrant street art. El Peñol and Guatapé: Take a day trip to climb El Peñol for panoramic views and explore the colorful town of Guatapé . 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. Connect with Dr. Travelbest Colombia Tips for Solo Travelers Stay in centrally located accommodations like the Downtown or Historic areas for easy access to attractions. 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. Connect with Dr Travelbest email:
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Boulder, CO
05/02/2025
Boulder, CO
Boulder, Colorado FAQ: Isn’t it awkward to eat alone? Step 1 question Destination episode: Boulder, CO. Lesson Learned: Got on the wrong train line. Travel Tip: Screenshot your map before leaving Wifi FAQ Response to Isn’t it awkward to eat alone? Yes, it is the first few times. No doubt. But it gets easier with every time you do it. Soon, you’ll just walk in a restaurant and not even think about it. I can relate to the woman who has never done it, because I remember my first time. I was scared. I told the hostess: “I’ve never eaten solo in a restaurant before, so put me in the corner, ok?” She did as I wished, and then came by to check on me a couple of times. My service was good. I had only good experiences since then. And I travel around the world solo now. Episode: Boulder, Colorado My time in Boulder, Colorado, was among the best. Do you know some people consider it the Happiest Place in the USA? Look out Disneyland. Great place for relaxing, culture, and outdoorsy hiking, but not too challenging. Plus, there’s biking. U of Colorado football and basketball games. Football games at high schools and other colleges in the area. Downtown Boulder would be my first stop. Pearl Street Mall lets you stroll along the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall, known for its local shops, art galleries, and street performers. Get the feel of the town here, especially in the early evening. Local Tips Transportation: Boulder is bike-friendly, and renting a bicycle can be a convenient way to explore. The city's public transportation, including buses with names like SKIP and HOP, is also reliable. Safety: Boulder is generally considered safe for solo travelers. However, always stay aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring less populated areas. Local Culture: Boulder has a history of counter-culture movements and is known for its progressive and health-conscious residents. The community values outdoor activities, environmental sustainability, and local arts. Dining: The city offers a range of dining options, focusing on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Exploring different neighborhoods can lead to delightful culinary discoveries. Let me know what you find and I may talk about it next time on an episode and thanks. Lesson Learned: Got on the wrong train line. Travel Tip: Screenshot your map before leaving Wifi Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Blue Zone Travel
04/25/2025
Blue Zone Travel
Special Episode Blue Zone Travel The five "Blue Zones" in the world, which are regions identified as having a high concentration of people living to a very old age, are: Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California, USA. Notably, four of these Blue Zones are located near oceans, making them easily accessible by sea travel. Ocean proximity: Blue Zones like Costa Rica and California are situated not too far from coastlines, making them ideal destinations for those interested in combining a healthy lifestyle exploration with beach vacations. Mediterranean Sea: The regions of Sardinia (Italy) and Ikaria (Greece) are located in the Mediterranean Sea, which can be easily accessed by cruise ships or ferries. Cultural immersion: Visiting a Blue Zone allows travelers to experience the local culture, cuisine, and lifestyle, which are often linked to longevity. My friend Kirsty mentioned this in January, so I’ve created a list of things to do for each. You are not guaranteed to have long life, or even a good time, but visiting one or more of the zones will require different types of travel. 1. Ikaria, Greece 🇬🇷 The island where people forget to die. It’s located off Athens, in the Icarian Sea. It’s on an island not fro from Mikonos or Patmos. Hike ancient trails to tiny stone chapels and mountain villages. Soak in natural hot springs in Therma. Join a panigiri (village festival)—you’ll eat, dance, and be pulled into the local scene, no invite needed. Try the local herbal teas and Mediterranean diet, rich in greens, olive oil, and goat’s milk. 🔍 Vibe: Rustic, serene, deeply communal. Great for introspection. 2. Okinawa, Japan 🇯🇵 Land of the world’s longest-living women. I’ve been to Japan, but not yet here. 3. Sardinia, Italy 🇮🇹 Mountain life, shepherds, and centenarians galore. I’ve been to Italy, but only the boot. This island is far from the mainland. It’s mountainous and has beaches. The cities are Cagliari to the south and Alghero to the north. 4. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica 🇨🇷 Pura Vida in every breath. 5. Loma Linda, California, USA 🇺🇸 A health-conscious bubble in SoCal. I have been here, but I never really thought about living a long life. They do have an award-winning hospital here. It's not far from Big Bear Lake and San Bernadino Riverside area near Los Angeles. Skeptical Take: Are the Blue Zones Just Hype? Not every Blue Zone is “set up” for tourism, and longevity isn’t guaranteed to rub off on you after a week. Infrastructure, language barriers, and culture gaps can pose challenges. But if you’re looking for meaningful solo travel that reframes aging, fosters deep well-being, and introduces you to life lived at a different rhythm, these places are worth the trip. Just keep your expectations grounded—and your curiosity wide open. Today’s Travel Advice- Find a blue Zone near you that’s not on the list. Perhaps you can adjust your lifestyle to make the most of your years here. Let me know if you discover another Blue Zone in your travels. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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5 Steps to Solo Travel for the Woman on the Go: What are the 5 Steps?
04/18/2025
5 Steps to Solo Travel for the Woman on the Go: What are the 5 Steps?
Are you traveling? Tell me why or why not. Need a confidence boost? Here are the 5 Steps to Solo travel, summarized and a link to the book on Amazon. Step 1: Local Solo Travel. Close to home local travel. Step 2: Domestic solo trips, familiar with the territory. Maybe cross country. Step 3: National travel with more complexity, such as Alaska or Hawaii Step 4: International travel in familiar cultures Step 5: Fully independent, adventurous international solo travel. I’ve been creating this podcast weekly since 2018. I’m on my way to helping more than 100,000 women travel solo. Are you one of us? FAQ: You asked? Where am I traveling this summer? Here is your FAQ response: I start in Colombia, then Ecuador for Galapagos, then Peru for Machu Pichu, and then Brazil for some beach life in Salvador and near Rio. I will finish in Argentina’s Iguazu Falls, then return to Sao Paulo for my Cape Town, South Africa flight. I’ll be there for several days and depart from Johannesburg to Athens, Greece. After being there for a week, I’ll explore other parts of Europe, including Poland and Scandinavia. I’ll be there for a while, and then across to travel in Canada, hopefully Halifax and PEI, before I go home 90 days later via Toronto. That’s the plan for the summer trip. I’ll be staying with families via Servas (World Peace) and at lower-budget hotels. I’ll book local activities where I can. I’ll have a small footprint and carry a pack that weighs less than 15 lbs. Lessons learned from my 90-day trip in 2023 Most of them were about the wrong direction or the wrong destination. This time, I know that I may make similar mistakes, but I hope to make fewer of them. I have a hard time with remembering which way I came in, such as a hotel room. I need to be more aware of the physical presence, and take notes in my brain about them. Today’s Travel Advice- I’m planning the trip daily now, and most of my decisions can be made from Europe. However, if I want to get a Eurail pass, I should do so before I leave the USA. I am concerned about how the world sees the USA these days. I will never be alone. I’ll always have God with me. I’ll be praying every minute, as best I can. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Best of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - Part 2
04/18/2025
Best of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - Part 2
Today’s Special issue is on San Diego Zoo and Safari Parks Part 2 Today’s Mistake-Bodysurfing when the waves are too strong. Destination: Part 2 of 2 San Diego Zoo and Safari Park San Diego Zoo and Safari Parks is a conservation organization under the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and is a Step 1 or Step 2 destination. The Wildlife Alliance is trying to create A world where all life thrives. They have two front doors. In this episode, we focus on the Safari Park, formerly the Wild Animal Park. Connect with Dr Travelbest email:
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Unscripted-Iceland Step 5 Travel-Final Destination 90 days Solo Female Travel
04/11/2025
Unscripted-Iceland Step 5 Travel-Final Destination 90 days Solo Female Travel
This is a test episode that I hope you will enjoy as it is unedited and on the go. Tell me you heard it and what you think. If you don't like it, I will remove it and go back to the regular format. I hope you enjoy the test. I'm here for helping you travel. That's my goal. I want to bring world peace one step closer to reality through female travel. This episode is not scripted. There is no intro dialog. You can hear the story about my final destination in Iceland on my 90 day trip around the world. This is not the usual pattern, so let me know what you think about the message. This is a peek behind the scenes to how I took the wrong bus to the airport in Iceland. How I got on another bus, again wrong, and then in the rain, made it to the airport before anyone else on my flight. It was a small airport. Please comment if you like this type of content. I have recorded other segments like it, showing authentic colors and stories from the recent travels of a solo woman in her prime. If this is your first time listening, please let me know. You can DM me today on IG or FB. This is a Step 5 adventure. Don't try this step without mastering the other four levels.
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Border Crossings - USA Mexico
04/04/2025
Border Crossings - USA Mexico
Special Episode: Border Crossings: USA/ Mexico: FAQ: Can I fly to Mexico from the Tijuana airport? Travel misstep-Parking at CBX was full Lesson or tip of the day: More packing light tips A friend asked me if I could fly to Mexico from Tijuana airport. Mexico Border Crossing on land: For over fifty years, I’ve crossed borders countless times worldwide and in dozens of countries, traveling solo or with a friend. During the hours I waited in line, often for four or more hours, I was treated to many vendors selling food, beverages, and cookies. I have been offered puppies in previous years, but not this time. A news report from Fox 5 says that the medical lane has been temporarily suspended. The show notes have details. In Spanish, I asked out the window, “How many Churros can I get for $20? They told me, and we agreed. The car moved forward, but the vendor knew the car. Five minutes later, the churros arrived warm and delicious. Then, another delivery, and finally, a third delivery. This was a massive amount of churros, and we were stuffed. We had been volunteering at the Door of Faith Orphanage in La Mision, Mexico, just north of Ensenada, about 90 minutes into Mexico. Check the show notes to learn more about the orphanage and nearby communities if you want to visit. Travel misstep-Parking at CBX was full Tip of the day- More packing light tips for the airplane Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Servas Travel
03/28/2025
Servas Travel
Special Episode Servas Travel Here is your FAQ: Have you done any couch surfing? My followers asked me this question. Special Episode topic: Servas travel Travel mistakes: Making the age limit in a restaurant Travel Tips: Daily schedule for exercise FAQ response: Have you done any couch surfing? My followers asked me this question. Answer: No, but I have been using SERVAS for three years as a member. I stayed in 6 homes and did a day host in one country, too. Listen here for more on that. Special episode on SERVAS I’m planning another around-the-world trip in 2025 and will contact hosts in South America, Africa, Europe, and Canada. I will email them, introduce myself, and tell them my travel dates. If they respond, we may have a match. If you happen to be a SERVAS host, please let me know. The countries where I did make great matches were the Philippines (day host), India (Kerala and Agra for 1-2 nights), Israel (Tel Aviv 2 nights), Italy (Naples 2 nights), Ireland (Dublin 2 nights), and Scotland (Glasgow, three homes, 5 nights total). The irony is that some of the Scottish hosts also hosted Dick this year. Small world. SERVAS International was founded in 1949 by Bob Luitweiler, a pacifist and peace activist. Here are some of the organization's history and how it can benefit solo women travelers. I’ll share the history, the goals, and the benefits for travelers, especially women and especially solo women. History Origins: SERVAS was established after World War II to promote peace through cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. Vision: The name "SERVAS" means "to serve" in Esperanto, reflecting its commitment to building bridges between cultures and fostering mutual respect. Global Reach: It operates in over 100 countries and territories, creating a worldwide network of travelers and hosts dedicated to peace and goodwill. Goals Promoting Peace: SERVAS encourages cultural exchange and understanding to combat prejudice and conflict. Fostering Dialogue: Hosts and travelers engage in meaningful conversations about their lives, cultures, and beliefs, promoting mutual understanding. Sustainability: The organization values eco-friendly and low-impact travel, aligning with global efforts to protect the planet. Empowering Women Travelers: SERVAS provides a safe and supportive environment for women, including solo travelers, by connecting them with verified and trustworthy hosts. Benefits for Solo Female Travelers Safe Accommodation: SERVAS connects travelers with hosts who have undergone a screening process, adding a layer of security for solo women. Cultural Immersion: Staying with local hosts allows you to experience the authentic culture of your destination, often away from tourist hubs. Cost-Effective Travel: Accommodation with SERVAS hosts is free, reducing travel expenses. Community and Connection: Emphasizing meaningful conversations provides opportunities for enriching educational experiences. Supportive Network: For solo travelers, especially women, SERVAS offers a built-in community of like-minded individuals who value safety, trust, and connection. Flexible and Global: The network spans various countries, offering unlimited travel opportunities. How SERVAS Works You must apply for SERVAS membership, which involves an interview process to ensure alignment with the organization’s values. Members receive a document that introduces them to hosts and verifies their commitment to SERVAS principles. SERVAS provides a directory of hosts in participating countries, detailing their interests, location, and availability. Travelers arrange stays with hosts in advance, typically for 1-2 nights, to encourage meaningful interaction rather than transient lodging. Tips for Using SERVAS as a Solo Woman Choose hosts with detailed profiles and positive reviews to ensure compatibility. Discuss expectations, house rules, and interests with your host before your visit via email. SERVAS is built on trust, so always trust your instincts and prioritize your safety. Keep in touch with someone back home and share your itinerary and host details. As a solo female traveler who values meaningful travel experiences and cultural exchange, SERVAS aligns perfectly with my interests. It offered me a unique way to connect with real locals, experience destinations authentically, and travel safely. The organization’s commitment to peace and sustainability adds a deeper purpose to my journeys. I would recommend this to any of our listeners Travel mistakes: Making the age limit in a restaurant Travel Tips: Daily schedule for exercise Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Death Valley California Part 2 of 2
03/21/2025
Death Valley California Part 2 of 2
This Episode is for you and about Death Valley Part 2 Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide, an empowering travel and life adventure with a personal approach to guiding women like you in your prime who might be a bit adventure-timid. My goal is for you to create memories with your travels. I want to expand the relationships you make in our groups into a supportive community with your needs at the center. In this episode, the FAQ is: How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days. Today’s Destination is Death Valley, Part 2, Today’s Misstep- Bad at directions Travel Advice: Take the lesson with you and share it with others. FAQ: How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days. Part 2 Here’s the destination story: Part 2 Planning the visit This is part 2 of a story about visiting Death Valley, California, on a solo road trip in 2025. I told you last time how I planned the trip and my first stops. Here is where I went, a reflection on how I took action, and then created the memory. But first, I went to Badwater Basin. It’s the lowest spot in the USA, at 282 feet below sea level. Today’s Misstep- Bad at directions Today’s Travel Advice- Take the lesson with you and share it with others. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Death Valley California Part 1 of 2
03/16/2025
Death Valley California Part 1 of 2
This Episode is for you and about Death Valley Part 1 Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide. Today’s story will share how to live on the road in your style. In this episode, the FAQ is: How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days. Today’s Destination is Death Valley, Part 1, the planning and first stops Today’s Misstep- Blowing my hat off Travel Advice: Bring plenty of shade, more than you think. FAQ: How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days. Today’s Misstep- Blowing my hat off Today’s Travel Advice- Bring plenty of sun shade, like a floppy umbrella hat, and cover your face and hands with sunscreen. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Solo Travel in Mexico
02/28/2025
Solo Travel in Mexico
FAQ: When it comes to solo travel in Mexico, how can I feel safer, more prepared, and excited, not hesitant or fearful? Special episode: Confidence Builders for Solo Travel in Mexico Lesson Learned: Sunglasses lost in the sea! Travel Tip: Focus on your superpower, terms, travel, and power. I’ve volunteered to help at the Door of Faith Orphanage and encourage you to visit this, too. You can visit online for more information. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Las Vegas, Nevada Part 2
02/21/2025
Las Vegas, Nevada Part 2
FAQ is: I’m going on a long trip, but I’m only allowed to bring one small carry-on. How can I manage? Today’s Destination is Las Vegas. Part 2 outdoors. Today’s Misstep- I forgot the tent. Travel Advice: Protect yourself. FAQ: I’m going on a long trip but can only bring one small carry-on. The airline rules and my trip leaders limit the baggage. How can I manage? Las Vegas. Part 2 outdoors Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Las Vegas Nevada Part 1
02/14/2025
Las Vegas Nevada Part 1
FAQ: A good friend who doesn’t want to be named asked me how not to try to do it all. The point of the question was to limit the fear of missing out. How do I reduce my FOMO and add more JOMO (the Joy of missing out) when I travel? Today’s Destination is Las Vegas. Part 1 Indoor activities for travelers Today’s Misstep- I Spilled the candle wax at my airbnb and made a mess. Travel Advice: Look for adventure close to home. FAQ: How do I reduce my FOMO and add more JOMO (the Joy of missing out) when I travel? Las Vegas. Part 1 ? Today’s Misstep- Spilled the candle wax. Today’s Travel Advice- Look for adventure close to home. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Los Angeles Post Fires Travel, Power Check, and Circular Travel
02/07/2025
Los Angeles Post Fires Travel, Power Check, and Circular Travel
FAQ: Should I go out at night when on a solo trip? Mistake in travel: Check the connection, battery and power bank Today’s Travel Advice- Travel in one direction, in a circle I see some bright spots, but it will be a while before LA returns as a major travel destination, so pay attention and use the Watch Duty App. Mistake in travel: Check the connection, battery life, and power bank So often, my laptop is not connected to electricity, or my battery runs out of juice. One more thing to remember is power. If you have a portable battery, remember to bring the right cords to connect it. All of your electronics need power, so think this through. Today’s Travel Advice- Travel in one direction, in a circle if you like…. Travel in a circle, so you don’t need to double back. If you buy a round-trip ticket, which most people do, you can draw a circle around the places you want to visit and try to stay in a circular or even oblong pattern, so you won’t be backtracking if you keep going in a circle. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Best of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - Part 1
01/31/2025
Best of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - Part 1
In this episode: The FAQ is: What is your purpose for traveling? Today’s Special episode: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Part 1 Today’s Mistake- Time zone mayhem Travel Advice: Prioritize Flexibility In this episode: FAQ What is your purpose for travel? Answer: My purpose for traveling and especially solo travel, is to reach into places that may not be the most populated and to connect with women where they are to help bridge the culture gap. World peace is the ultimate goal for seeing this through. If I can reach 1,000,000 women and help 1000 of them travel solo, that is my specific goal next year! I’ll be asking if and how I helped you. Destination: Part 1 of 2 San Diego Zoo and Safari Parks is now the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance The Wildlife Alliance is trying to create a world where all life thrives. They have two front doors. In this episode, we focus on the Zoo, and in the next episode, it will be the Safari Park, formerly known as the Wild Animal Park. Ambassadors are all around to help with saving, protecting, and preserving all around the world. Rick Schwartz is a spokesperson; if you call their website's phone number, you will hear all about their good works. You will hear about how the Northern White Rhinos are endangered. Wildlife rescue centers like this does research. It’s vet science on steroids. They are leveraging 100 years of wildlife science. Several species are new and born at the park. Connect with Dr Travelbest email:
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Best of Naples Florida And Consolidating Luggage Into A Personal Item
01/24/2025
Best of Naples Florida And Consolidating Luggage Into A Personal Item
In this episode: The FAQ is: A reader asks, I recently booked a trip, and the airfare included no carry-on bag. How can I manage to travel without a carry-on? Today’s Destination: NAPLES, FLA Today’s Mistake- I lost my horse. Travel Advice: MAKE SOMEONE ELSE’S DAY Answer: Destination: Naples, FL Today’s Mistake: I lost my horse. Today’s Travel Advice: MAKE SOMEONE ELSE’S DAY Connect with Dr Travelbest email:
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Best of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Maine
01/17/2025
Best of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Maine
In this episode, the FAQ is: “What is air travel like these days, and what is different? Today’s Destination is Acadia National Park Today’s Mistake- My own car crash in parking garage Travel Advice: Travel pillows FOR SLEEPING on planes FAQ: “What is air travel like these days, and what is different? AARP is offering some airline travel tips that may answer this question. First, some facts. In 2019, the FAA reported 146 cases of bad behavior on planes, but in 2021, that number grew to more than 1,000. That was out of nearly 6,000 cases of unruly passengers. Airplane etiquette is more important because we are all hyper-aware of those around us. Some people get to the airport these days, forgetting basic kindness. The first rule of respectful travel is to accept the rules: Observe mask mandates, boarding processes, and carry-on restrictions. Beyond that, there are steps you can take to make travel a little more pleasant for everyone and avoid conflict. Here are five tips: Don’t hog the overhead bins Greet your flight attendant Prepare yourself ahead of time. Don’t escalate a conflict. Don’t bring stinky food on board. Source: Destination: Acadia National Park, Maine Woodland Rocky beaches and Granite Peaks mark Acadia. It's a good destination for a Solo Traveler or with a friend. ALL seasons have something to offer. At 4 million visits a year, it's one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States. Visitors can explore 27 miles of historic motor roads, hike 158 miles of trails, and explore 45 miles of carriage roads. A shuttle service runs through the park from late June through late October, so you don't need a car during those times. The weather is temperate due to the ocean climate, and it rains often. You may also see morning fog in the summer. What is significant about the geography at Acadia National Park? The highest point on the United States East Coast is Cadillac Mountain. You will find Wildlife such as moose, bears, seabirds, and Wales. You are close to Bar Harbor, where restaurants, shops, and entertainment are popular after your visit. You will like the smell of the salty air as you walk through the national park and along the streets of Bar Harbor. My favorite time of year is the fall, when the Fall colors are magnificent. I had trouble finding a hotel nearby on Columbus Day weekend. I had to drive quite a ways to find a hotel when I didn't make reservations that week. Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island’s largest community, is a five‐hour drive from Boston and 50 miles from Bangor International Airport. It is the second largest on the eastern seaboard behind Long Island. The springtime is lovely and cool. Do not expect to be in a very hot area this time of year. It is a bit of a drive to get there, but it's worth it. I suggest flying to Boston and driving 5 hours, or about 50 miles from Bangor, Maine. Today’s Travel Advice-Travel neck pillows reviewed. Neck pillows are foam, some with straps around the headrest, to help you sleep on the plane. I did a TWITTER POLL to discover your favorites. TRTL pillow won. It has a cushioned foam section that you can adjust to be anywhere around your neck, whether you like to fall asleep forward or to the side. The next favorite is the . The new version has adjustable neck support, allowing Goldilocks-style comfort and the fabric wrap is vented with a breathable mesh. Connect with Dr Travelbest
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Special Edition: London, England Airports Ranked
01/10/2025
Special Edition: London, England Airports Ranked
Special Edition: London, England Airports In this episode, the FAQ is: What are some of the biggest changes for travel in 2025? Today’s Destination is: London Airports Today’s Misstep- Wearing the wrong shoes Travel Advice: When buying an airline ticket, pause. FAQ: What are some of the biggest changes for travel in 2025? Expect more opportunities for local immersion, where you can experience the daily life of local communities through homestays, service projects, and interactive cultural programs for seniors. Solo female travel is on the rise, with women comprising 71% of solo travelers. Many travel companies now offer solo-friendly options, such as cruises without single supplements and women-only trips to destinations like Saudi Arabia, where my parents almost moved in 1980, when it was very different for women. Decision Fatigue The solo traveler is solely responsible for all decisions, from choosing accommodations and dining spots to navigating routes. This can lead to decision fatigue and frustration and isolation in challenging situations. Lack of Immediate Support Solo travelers may not have immediate support in moments of illness or emergencies. Reliance on strangers for help can be daunting, and having communication devices like a satellite communicator is crucial. Cultural and Language Barriers Solo female travelers may encounter cultural and language barriers, leading to uncomfortable situations. Respecting local traditions, dress codes, and learning basic phrases in the local language can help mitigate these challenges. Loneliness Solo travel can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness. To combat this, travelers can seek social gatherings, connect with fellow travelers, or engage in group tours and activities. Today’s Special Episode: London, England Airports London’s major airports each have distinct features catering to different traveler needs. Here’s a rundown on each and some important aspects for solo female travelers over 50: First, the Best Overall Recommendations for Solo Female Travelers Over 50 Best for On-Time Flights: London City Airport (LCY) Best for Service: Heathrow Airport (LHR) Best for Pricing: Stansted (STN) or Luton (LTN) Best Overall Experience: Heathrow (LHR) (for amenities and comfort) or Gatwick (LGW) (for balance between cost and comfort) 1. Heathrow Airport (LHR) Location: West London, about 15 miles from Central London. Identity: The largest and busiest airport in the UK, known for long-haul international flights and a wide array of shopping and dining options. Pros: Excellent amenities, extensive shopping and dining, good transportation links (Heathrow Express, London Underground). Considerations: Can be crowded; peak times may involve long lines. Solo travelers might find comfort in its high-security standards and numerous on-site assistance points. Ratings: On-Time: Generally good but can experience delays due to high traffic. Service: Known for high service standards and amenities, including comfortable lounges. Pricing: Usually more expensive than other London airports. Overall Experience: Best for travelers looking for comfort and amenities, even if it means a higher price. 2. Gatwick Airport (LGW) Location: South of London, about 30 miles from Central London. Identity: Known for offering both international and low-cost European flights. Pros: Competitive pricing on flights, good amenities, easy rail access to Central London. I was bussed from Heathrow here and back for my Africa travels. That was a chance to see London, from the window, thanks to British Air. Considerations: Less busy than Heathrow, and offers options like the Gatwick Express, a fast train to Central London. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for convenience. Ratings: On-Time: Tends to have good punctuality compared to Heathrow. Service: Offers a range of services, though fewer luxury options than Heathrow. Pricing: Competitive, especially for European flights. Overall Experience: Suitable for those who value a balance of comfort and cost. 3. London City Airport (LCY) Location: East London, close to Canary Wharf and the city center. Identity: Compact and designed for business travelers, with quick access to London. Pros: Fast check-ins, less crowded, closest to Central London, and primarily caters to short-haul destinations. Considerations: Ideal for quick, efficient entry to London, though limited to short-haul flights. Its size can be comforting for solo travelers who want to avoid larger crowds. Ratings: On-Time: Known for high punctuality rates. Service: Tailored services for business and solo travelers, though limited amenities. Pricing: Higher, given its proximity and convenience. Overall Experience: Best for solo travelers who prioritize quick, stress-free entry and exit. I have not flown here yet. 4. Stansted Airport (STN) Location: North East of London, about 40 miles from Central London. Identity: A hub for budget airlines that is popular for European flights. Pros: Affordability, a variety of low-cost airlines, and straightforward access to London via train. I flew here from Milan for $20 as long as I had a personal item, not a carry-on. It was Ryan Air. I flew out a week later to Edinburgh, but that was a bit of a crazy crowded airport with people all over trying to wait until their flights. Yes, it was very crowded. Ratings: On-Time: Generally decent but can experience delays due to high traffic on budget flights. Service: Basic but sufficient; less luxurious than Heathrow or Gatwick. Pricing: Most competitive, particularly for European destinations. Overall Experience: Ideal for those seeking low-cost travel and are comfortable with basic amenities. 5. Luton Airport (LTN) Location: North of London, about 30 miles from Central London. Identity: Budget-friendly with numerous low-cost airlines. Pros: Good for low-cost European flights, straightforward access to London via trains. Considerations: It is generally busy, with fewer service amenities; it is best for budget-minded travelers who don’t mind fewer frills. Ratings: On-Time: Average, with some delays during peak times. Service: Basic but functional. Pricing: Low-cost options make it appealing for budget travelers. Overall Experience: Suitable for budget-conscious solo travelers willing to trade amenities for savings. Today’s Misstep: Wearing the wrong shoes Talk about the wrong step. I had the wrong shoes. First, I had sandals with heels, and it was really cold, so I should have worn something warmer with socks. Then I got blisters because the sandals rubbed my foot. Don’t wear stylish shoes just for looks when you should wear something more sensible and comfortable. Your feet are here for life, and anyone who judges your choice of footwear can pound sand. Let them. Today’s Travel Advice- When buying an airline ticket, pause. Today’s airline tickets are almost all self-serve. You may buy them infrequently, so you may not notice all of the changes that are happening when you buy a ticket. Before you click the button, be sure you check everything. Do you have the correct dates? Are you ok with the luggage choices? Did you spell your name correctly? Is there a better price directly with the airline? Is it refundable? Do you need insurance or not? Can you use your miles or credits instead of cash? It’s becoming more challenging to purchase your ticket, so practice before you buy. You may save hundreds of dollars if you do. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Delhi, India Part 2
01/03/2025
Delhi, India Part 2
Delhi, India Part 2 In this episode, your FAQ is: Safety in India for solo travelers Today’s Destination is: Delhi, India. Part 2 Today’s Misstep- Cellphone issues that were my fault and more Travel Advice: Safety tips for travel in Delhi. FAQ: Let’s talk about safety in India. My friend Kathryn is going to Delhi and is worried about being a solo woman. Can I talk to her about what she can expect? The short answer is that Kathryn is already back home, and she had a great trip, but she was nervous and needed confirmation that all would be well. Today’s destination: Delhi, India Part 2 One of the best parts of India…and Aero City Let’s discuss a region of Delhi called Aero City. It’s really close, just minutes from the airport. Indira Gandhi International Airport, that is. It’s well connected to the rest of the city through the Airport Metro Line. And you can get to places in the center of Delhi, like Connaught Place, in about 25 minutes. Aerocity is a top priority for safety and security for female travelers, with state-of-the-art cameras, staff, and surveillance. The hotels and surrounding public spaces are really nice. Aero City was full of what’s new about India. There are hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants. I felt Safe being here. I took the AirPort Express Metro to Aero City and walked for about 6 minutes in the 105-degree heat. Drenched in sweat, the pool was on my mind when I arrived! It made the walk bearable! There were girls and sisters in the pool, my new friends, ages 8 and 11. They were in the room next to me and on School holidays in Dehli—a break for the families and fun for me. Today’s Misstep: Cellphone issues: Here is when I discovered my cellphone issues with Airalo and why my WhatsApp was not working! India is not in the Asia plan! That was my failure! I did not have internet service when out of Wi-Fi coverage in India. Something with the eSIM, Airalo plan, which was not covered under “All Asia”. I need to tell them to label that better. If you want to sign up for the plan I have used worldwide, get $3.0ff with the code MARY2856. Today’s Travel Advice- Dehli Safety Tips Dress Conservatively: Especially in urban villages and when visiting religious sites Avoid Crowded Areas at Night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone at night Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets and scams Use Trusted Transportation: Prefer pre-paid taxis, Uber, or Ola, and avoid accepting rides from unknown drivers Act Confident: Walk with confidence and firmly decline any unwanted attention or offers Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Delhi, India Part 1
12/27/2024
Delhi, India Part 1
Delhi, India Part 1 In this episode, the FAQ is: My listeners ask: How do I check for the weather where I’m going? Today’s Destination is: Delhi, India Today’s Misstep- Stuck in India and missed the bus Travel Advice: Ask a group of people for directions FAQ: You asked me how to get the most reliable weather forecast: Here’s how> Use apps like AccuWeather, weather.com, and windy or local services, with hourly and long-range forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts. For more local alerts, sign up for location-based apps on Google Weather or MyRadar. Look for seasonal patterns that are already known. Goa, India has monsoons from June to September. Wind and rain forecasts like windy.com will tell you the wind and wave conditions, especially to help with beach plans. Check for Cyclone Warnings in places like coastal India. Answer: Reliable Weather Apps and Websites: For accurate forecasts, use apps like AccuWeather, Weather.com, Windy, or local Indian weather services (like IMD). Many offer hourly and long-range forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts. Localized Alerts: Sign up for location-based alerts on apps like Google Weather or MyRadar, which provide real-time weather updates for your location. This can be especially helpful for any sudden coastal storms or cyclones. Seasonal Patterns: Since you’re going to Goa or nearby coastal regions, familiarize yourself with local weather patterns. For example, Goa experiences the monsoon season from June to September, with dry and sunny weather from October to March. Wind and Rain Forecasts: Coastal areas are affected by both rain and wind speed. Windy.com offers detailed wind and wave conditions, which can help with beach plans. Check for Cyclone Warnings: Especially in coastal India, monitor IMD's cyclone warnings as they provide updates on tropical storms that may affect Goa. Lastly, social media can help by using WhatsApp groups to get firsthand information from locals. Today’s destination: Delhi, India Part 1 My visit to Delhi, or New Delhi, India Which is it? New Delhi when referring to the specific district that serves as India’s capital. New Delhi is a planned city developed during British rule and officially designated as the capital in 1931. Delhi refers to the larger metropolitan area, encompassing both New Delhi and other historical and residential parts like Old Delhi, which includes the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Delhi is the correct term when speaking broadly about the city and its culture, so we will use that one here. After two weeks in India, visiting four southern cities, I flew north to Dehli from Goa, barely missing the seasonal monsoons. My flight had a Female co-pilot who Said hello to me with a big smile, which made me happy to see a woman pilot there. The flight attendants checked my boarding tickets. Again, getting off the plane! That was a first. Who checks them getting off the plane? Should I take a Bus, train, or taxi to Agra? Even after arriving, I could not decide. I was overwhelmed with the decisions, but I knew I had to get there. A taxi costs at least $6000 rupees each way, maybe more. Although this sounded like a lot, it was only $72 USD. Bus or train may be best. However, the temperature is 💯 degrees, so think about heat stroke and how that will affect me. Here are a few places that I would recommend in Dehli to visit over 3 days: Historic on Day 1 in Old Dehli; Day 2, consider Heritage and Spiritual; and Day 3, Museums, art and gardens Day 1: Red Fort UNESCO World Heritage site, a symbol of Mughal (Moogal) power. Cost: about $6.00 for foreigners Time: 2-3 hours. Travel: 30 mins from central Delhi by metro or taxi. Jama Masjid India’s largest mosque, rich in Mughal architecture. Cost: Free, nominal fee for photography. Time: 1-2 hours. Travel: Walking distance from Red Fort. Chandni Chowk Historic market with traditional Indian shops and street food. Cost: Free; budget around 500-800 INR for food and shopping. Time: 2 hours. Travel: Walking distance from Jama Masjid. Day 2 Qutub Minar UNESCO World Heritage site, India’s tallest minaret. Cost: 600 INR for foreigners. or $7.00 Time: 1.5 hours. Travel: 30-45 mins from central Delhi by taxi or metro. Lotus Temple Iconic Baháʼí House of Worship, open to all religions. Cost: Free. Time: 1 hour. Travel: 20 mins from Qutub Minar by taxi or metro. India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan War memorial and President’s House, as well as significant colonial architecture. Cost: Free. Time: 1-2 hours for a stroll. Travel: 20-30 mins from Lotus Temple by taxi. Day 3 National Museum India’s largest museum, showcasing ancient artifacts. Cost: 650 INR for foreigners. Time: 2 hours. Travel: 20 mins from central Delhi by taxi. Humayun’s Tomb UNESCO site, inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Cost: 600 INR for foreigners. Time: 1.5 hours. Travel: 15 mins from the National Museum. Lodhi Gardens Tranquil gardens with Mughal tombs. Cost: Free. Time: 1-2 hours. Travel: 10 mins from Humayun’s Tomb. Today’s Misstep: Stuck in India and missed the bus The traffic on the way to the Agra bus stop was halted that Monday morning. It meant I had to leave the car and walk to the station. Only it was not a station; it was near an underpass in a busy part of town, and the bus was hidden behind a bunch of trucks and left without me early. The family that was hosting me in Agra was so kind. They chased down the bus for me, and I was able to board! That was hairy. Leave much earlier than you think you need to when in India. Yes, I made many mistakes, but you don’t have to! Today’s Travel Advice- Ask a group of people for directions Don’t be afraid to ask for directions if you’re not certain. Make eye contact with one who may be in a group, then ask for help. If they can’t help you, maybe someone in the group can. Don’t be shy if you are not sure. Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Phu Quoc Vietnam
12/20/2024
Phu Quoc Vietnam
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 Water Bottle - $12–$15 CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle - $14–$18 Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle - $19–$25 Collapsible Nomader Water Bottle - $25–$30 Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle - $32–$45 S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle - $35–$45 Klean Kanteen Insulated Classic Water Bottle - $30–$40 LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle - $39.95 GRAYL Geopress Purifier - $89.95 Top rated 3 are: Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle Features: Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours. Available in multiple sizes. Concerns: Bulkier due to insulation and slightly heavier. LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle Features: Comes with a built-in two-stage water filter, which filters out bacteria and parasites, ideal for travel in areas with questionable water quality. Concerns: Filtering process takes some effort, and it’s only suitable for freshwater sources. GRAYL Geopress Purifier Features: Purifies water by removing viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. Great for international travel where tap water might be unsafe. Concerns: Pricey, and filtering requires pushing the water through, which can be tiring. Not on the top list, but I use a BEAM. It makes a well-regarded water bottle called the BEAM Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottle. Price: Around $50–$70, depending on size and retailer. Features: This bottle is equipped with a UV-C light in the cap, which self-cleans and purifies the water by neutralizing bacteria and viruses. This makes it excellent for international travel or areas where water quality might be uncertain. It also keeps water cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours. Concerns: It requires charging for the UV feature, so you’ll need access to power, and it’s a bit pricier than standard bottles. The BEAM bottle is great if you prefer a high-tech solution for water purification and want to reduce odors and bacteria without a filter. If this sounds ideal, it could be a great choice for you as a solo traveler. I am not compensated for this product but I use it. Today’s destination: Phu Quoc, Vietnam When I arrived, I felt like I had landed in Hawaii. First, I’ll tell you why to visit and then about my trip here. It’s a tropical paradise in Vietnam. Why Phu Quoc is recommended for a Solo Traveler in their Prime: Safety and Hospitality: Phu Quoc is safe and welcoming, with friendly locals accustomed to tourists. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Relaxed Atmosphere: It’s more peaceful than other beach destinations in Vietnam, and it is ideal for relaxation. Easy Navigation: The island is small, and it’s easy to get around by taxis, organized tours, or with a private driver. Well-Developed Amenities: Phu Quoc has a variety of resorts, hotels, and spas that cater to international travelers, offering comfortable facilities and excellent service. Phu Quoc, Vietnam, is a beautiful, laid-back island destination that offers serene beaches, cultural sites, and relaxing experiences ideal for senior solo travelers. Here’s a list of the main attractions and reasons why Phu Quoc is worth visiting. The beaches include Long Beach, which has calm, golden sand and clear waters that are perfect for gentle strolls on the shore. There are many resorts, restaurants, and cafes. Sunsets are stunning. Find a beachfront restaurant and enjoy your visit. Also, Sao Beach is similar, but with white sand, turquoise waters, and a great place to read a book and relax. On my next visit here, I’ll see these attractions: 2. Duong Dong or Dinh Cau Night Markets This bustling night market is perfect for sampling local seafood and Vietnamese street food, shopping for souvenirs, and immersing yourself in local life. Local food specialties include grilled scallops or fresh tropical fruit. It’s a safe, lively place to explore in the evening. 3. Phu Quoc National Park This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a beautiful escape into nature. Its trails are suitable for all fitness levels and feature tropical plants and wildlife. Consider joining a tour if you prefer exploring with others; \ Vinpearl Safari This is Vietnam’s largest wildlife park, home to a range of animals worldwide. It’s well-maintained and offers a safe, comfortable way to see animals in spacious enclosures. Tip: Ideal for a half-day visit, with shuttle buses from most hotels. 5. Ho Quoc Pagoda A Buddhist pagoda with ocean views is located on a hilltop. It’s peaceful and an excellent place for a quiet moment of reflection. Tip: Morning visits are lovely, with cooler temperatures and fewer people. 6. Fish Sauce Factories and Pepper farms Phu Quoc is famous for its fish sauce, which is used throughout Vietnam. Visiting a fish sauce factory offers an interesting glimpse into this traditional process. The town is also known for its Pepper Farms. 7. Phu Quoc Cable Car This record-breaking cable car ride connects An Thoi and Hon Thom Island, offering spectacular aerial views of the coastline and nearby islands. This is a great way to see the islands from above, and Hon Thom has quiet beaches for a relaxed visit after the cable car ride. Today’s Misstep: Booked a hotel room under construction Today’s Travel Advice- Take a small risk Connect with Dr. Travelbest
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Edinburgh, Scotland
12/13/2024
Edinburgh, Scotland
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 in Your Environment: Place visual cues like a stretchy band or even a scarf in plain sight to remind you to stretch or exercise. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 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 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. 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
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