solo female travel

In this episode, FAQ is: What if I don’t like the food?

Today’s Destination is: Hyderabad, India

Today’s Misstep- Wrong color nail polish

Travel Advice: Grateful before happy

FAQ: What if I don’t like the food?

 

Answer:  You mostly will, but if not, have a plan. If you find yourself not enjoying the food in a travel destination, there are several things you can do to make your dining experience more enjoyable:

• Explore hyper-local options: Try different restaurants and eateries in your immediate neighborhood that offer a variety of local dishes. Sometimes, a dish or cooking style may not suit your taste, but other options might.

• Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals often know the best places to eat. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from hotel staff, tour guides, or friendly locals you meet during your travels. Tell them your limitations.

• Look for Familiar Cuisines: If you're having trouble adjusting to local flavors, look for restaurants that serve familiar cuisines. Many tourist destinations have various international restaurants catering to diverse tastes.

• Check Reviews: Use online review platforms like TripAdvisor, Yelp, or Google Reviews to find highly-rated restaurants. These platforms often provide insights into the food quality and overall dining experience.

• Communicate Your Preferences: If dining at a local establishment, consider politely communicating your preferences or dietary restrictions to the staff. They may be able to offer alternatives or modify dishes to suit your taste.

• Visit Markets or Grocery Stores: Explore local markets or grocery stores to find fresh produce, snacks, or even pre-packaged meals that you might enjoy. This allows you to have some control over your food choices.

• Opt for Self-Cooking Options: If you have access to a kitchen, consider preparing simple meals for yourself. You can buy ingredients from local markets and try cooking, providing a more personalized dining experience.

• Pack Snacks: Bring some of your favorite snacks from home to supplement your meals, especially if you're in a place where your preferred foods might be hard to find. I brought Peanut Butter to many places where I knew that Chilis was on every menu. That gave me protein and confidence.

• Be Open-Minded: Sometimes, embracing the local culinary culture and being open-minded about trying new foods can lead to unexpected discoveries and a more positive dining experience.

Today’s destination: Hyderabad, India

I arrived from Kerala to Hyderabad and had a phone number of someone to call that I would be staying with. We had a few texts to each other. Basically, a friend of a friend allowed me to stay with them and I was grateful..

They had their worker pick me up in the family car at the airport. My new friend, Soujanya, came along for the ride, which was special. We visited her parents' apartment, and I rested. Then we explored places such as her dad’s 7-acre farm, about an hour away, with ripe fruits like mangos and vegetables near a beautiful lake. it was nature in one of the finest moments. then we went to my host's home and met the other family members, husband, daughter, and then finally, brothers and sisters of the hosts, who all seemed to live in the same development.

They also have a “family “ business, and they showed me the office space and several employees working on projects. 

One of the highlights was seeing the Golconda Fort, with its architecture and panoramic city views. They had an impressive sound and light show in the evening. Seeing this in the evening, it was not crowded when things cooled down. 

We went to dinner afterward. Then, we drove around the city, including across the bridge. I could see the icons of tech here on parade in neon. Every company I could think of and more, including Qualcomm, is clearly part of the Hyderabad skyline, based in San Diego.

Here are some recommendations for things to do in Hyderabad:

• Charminar: This iconic monument is a must-visit. You can explore the surrounding markets for traditional bazaars and enjoy the local street food.

• Qutb (ku-teb)Shahi Tombs: Visit the Qutb Shahi Tombs to experience the serenity of the surrounding gardens and explore the intricate architecture of these historic structures.

For my next visit, here’s what I will see:

• Salar Jung Museum: If you're interested in art and history, the Salar Jung Museum houses one of the largest private collections of artifacts worldwide.

• Ramoji Film City: If you enjoy the world of cinema, spend a day at Ramoji Film City, one of the largest film studios in the world. It's a fascinating experience with film sets, gardens, and entertainment.

• Birla Mandir: This stunning white marble temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara offers a peaceful atmosphere and a beautiful city view.

• Hussain Sagar Lake: Take a boat ride on Hussain Sagar Lake and visit the Buddha Statue on an island in the middle of the lake.

• Eat at Paradise Restaurant: Hyderabad is famous for its biryani, and Paradise Restaurant is renowned for serving delicious biryani. It's a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Remember to prioritize your safety, especially when exploring new places alone. Inform someone about your whereabouts, use reliable transportation, and be aware of your surroundings. Enjoy your solo trip to Hyderabad!

 

Today’s Misstep- Wrong color nail polish. Make it clear or natural.

Use natural or clear colors instead of bright or bold colors. They get cracked, and you don’t want to spend time fixing them.

 

Today’s Travel Advice- Be grateful before you seek happy as a traveler.

 

If you do this in order you will have both. Gratitude comes first, before happiness. So be grateful for what you have now. 

In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.

 

• “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” – Andre Gide

• “Remember that happiness is a way of travel – not a destination.” – Roy M. Goodman

 

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

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In the news

 

In this episode, FAQ is: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Venmo?

Today’s Destination is: Chennai

Today’s Misstep- Stolen sneakers in Acalpulco

Travel Advice: Carry socks on the plane

FAQ: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Venmo?

Venmo, like any financial service, has both positive and negative aspects. The perception of whether Venmo is considered good or bad can vary based on individual preferences, needs, and experiences. Here are some factors to consider:

On my trip, I had the opportunity to use Venmo in Turkey to pay for a hostel that did not accept credit cards. It worked smoothly. I’ve been using the app for several years, and here are the good and the not so good—first, the advantages.

• Convenience: Venmo is known for its ease of use, allowing users to send or receive money quickly through a mobile app. It has become famous for splitting bills, sharing expenses, and making small transactions among friends and family.

• Social Integration: Venmo incorporates a social feed that allows users to see and comment on their friends' transactions. This social aspect can make money transfers more engaging and interactive.

• Wide Acceptance: Many online and offline merchants accept Venmo as a payment method. This widespread acceptance can be convenient for users who want to make purchases or payments through the app.

• Security Features: Venmo has implemented security features, such as two-factor authentication and encryption, to help protect users' financial information.

• Free for Standard Transactions: Venmo generally doesn't charge fees for standard transactions when using a linked bank account or debit card.

Disadvantages of Venmo:

• Privacy Concerns: The social feed feature on Venmo can lead to privacy concerns, as transactions are often visible to others by default. While you can adjust privacy settings, users should be cautious about sharing sensitive information.

• Fees for Certain Transactions: While standard transactions are usually free, Venmo charges fees for particular transactions, such as using a credit card or transferring funds to a linked bank account instantly.

• Limited Customer Support: Some users have reported challenges with Venmo's customer support, experiencing delays or difficulties in resolving issues.

• Not Ideal for Large Transactions: Venmo is designed for small, peer-to-peer transactions. Due to potential limitations and security concerns, it may not be the best option for large or business-related transactions.

• Risk of Scams: As with any digital payment platform, there is a risk of scams or fraudulent activities. Users should be vigilant and follow best practices to avoid scams.

Whether Venmo is considered good or bad depends on individual preferences, needs, and how well the platform aligns with a user's expectations and usage patterns.

Today’s destination: Chennai, India

My first visit to India was to Chennai, formerly Madras, which was my first city in the southeast part of the country.

I flew from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Chennai.

Air Asia Airlines was my carrier. I came via Kuala Lumpur. 

 

My first thought, arriving at midnight, was that I didn’t want to get ripped off by the taxi driver.

That happened.

The driver promised it was him, threw my bag in the trunk, and closed it. I was not stuck. He left the car as soon as the vehicle left the airport. Another driver, shoeless, jumped in to take me to my hotel. This driver had no change. He said I needed to pay him in cash and could not refund or change any bills. Fortunately, my hotel was able to step in and help me. I paid him from my hotel bill, so they added the charges to my account. I had cash, but all 2000 rupee note bills were worth about $25.00 each. No one seemed to be using this denomination anymore. The country has stopped using this currency. I was swindled in Vietnam, too, because they would have known this.

 

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/personal-finance/why-has-rbi-withdrawn-2000-rupee-note/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_500-rupee_note

What are some other things to do?

Explore Fort St. George:

• Visit Fort St. George, the oldest British-built fortress in India. You'll find the St. Mary's Church and the Fort Museum inside the fort, showcasing the city's colonial history.

Shopping at T Nagar:

• T Nagar is a bustling shopping district where you can find a variety of traditional silk sarees, jewelry, and other handicrafts. It's a good place to experience the vibrant local market scene.

Attend a dance Performance:

• Chennai is famous for its classical dance form, Bharatanatyam. baa·ruh·taa·naa·tee·uhm

• Check out local schedules for dance performances and enjoy this beautiful art form.

Try South Indian Cuisine:

• Indulge in the delicious South Indian cuisine. Try traditional dishes like dosa, idli, sambar, and coffee at local eateries. I especially liked the dosa, but not the spices on it. I had my peanut butter when I could not eat the chili spices.

While exploring Chennai, it's essential to prioritize your safety. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, use reliable transportation options, and be cautious of your surroundings. 

 

Today’s Misstep- Stolen sneakers in Acalpulco

 

Today’s Travel Advice: Walking contributes to heart health, weight management, and mental health.

Ask the Mission Walker, Edie Littlefield Sundby. She walked more than anyone I know after being diagnosed with cancer.

 

Walking is not a cure for illnesses, but it can contribute to overall health and well-being, potentially reducing the risk of certain diseases and improving various aspects of physical and mental health. Regular physical activity, such as walking, is associated with several health benefits.

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

5 Steps to Solo Travel website

Dr. Mary Travelbest X

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In the news

 

In this week's guest episode, I sit down with the Founder & CEO of The Expat Woman: Nyna Caputi. A self-identified "accidental expat", Nyna shares her journey from India to the United States and becoming a top-ranked Linkedin Career Coach. We dive into how The Expat Woman came to be, how Linkedin is no longer just for "dudes in suits", how to use the platform to make your profile stand out, disentangling the terms "immigrant" vs. "expat", and overcoming imposter syndrome! 

Reach out and connect with Nyna! 

The Expat Woman Website: https://www.theexpatwoman.com/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nynacaputi/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexpatwoman/ 

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheExpatWoman 

In this episode: .The FAQ is: How can I travel solo for the first time?

Today’s Destination Thousand Oaks California

 

Today’s Mistake- Too tired when you get home from a trip and can't find your parking ticket or keys

Travel Advice:   Safety After Dark

 

In this episode: FAQ How can I travel solo for the first time?

Answer: The first step for traveling solo for the first time is to pick a small destination such as one night in the next state. don't bite off too much because it might be too challenging and you want to be successful.  Plan a 1 Night trip to another town or state and return home the next day to see how you like it. prepare yourself with things to do by yourself, such as going to a movie, shopping, and sleeping well for the night when you wake up in the morning.  then drive home. You will have had your first successful solo trip, which was okay. The next step will be a little more challenging, but you will get there if you try and follow the directions I give you in my travel book, 5 steps to solo travel.

Destination:  Thousand Oaks, California

I took a solo trip to Malibu and Thousand Oaks, California, for a weekend.

There are about a hundred twenty-five thousand residents and 10,000 businesses here in Thousand Oaks, which has existed since the Chumash Indians founded it. 

There's a lot to do in the coastal area of California north of Los Angeles. I recommend this kind of Step One travel for those who have never traveled by themselves. Gardens of the World is a destination to enjoy in Thousand Oaks, California.

Gardens of the World is open from Tuesday through Saturday only. it smells great With all these beautiful flowers, gardens, and fresh air here. The drive between Thousand Oaks and Malibu is beautiful. I hope you can take that tour across the top of the mountain, horse farms, wineries, and one-of-a-kind homes. .Windy roads, viewpoints, canyons,  spectacular vistas, and even some forest fire damage along the drive from past years fires.

The Lakes shopping Mall, City Hall, Plaza, and Park are nearby. Thousand Oaks is a small city. I really wanted to visit the Ojai Valley Inn, but they said I needed a reservation. I ended up at the America’s Best Value Inn.

.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTicw7aoVS0

Nearby beaches include Topanga, Dan Blocker, Point Dume, Niklas Canyon

I need to get back here my favorite beaches were El Matador Beach and Zuma Beach in Malibu,

Today’s Mistake: Too tired when you get home from a trip and can't find your parking ticket or keys.

When you return from a long overseas trip, you may be very tired. you may not be able to find your car parking tickets, keys, or both. This happened to my sister on her return from a long European getaway. The lesson learned is keeping your keys and parking ticket in a convenient and memorable location. Before you set on your trip home, have them handy so you will not have to remember where they are. That will save you much stress when you are jet-lagged and tired, and your brain just doesn't want to work.

Today’s Travel Advice:  Safety After Dark

If you are walking around after dark by yourself, do not use earbuds and listen to podcasts or music. Keep your ears, eyes, and all senses aware of your surroundings. Do not drink alcohol or take drugs. Do not walk in dark alleys. Know where you're going ahead of time please. I would like you to arrive safely at your destination.

After being in Buenos Aires, Argentina for over a month, I share my insights on what it's like to live here as a digital nomad! From the stunning architecture to the dynamic cafe culture, you'll come to understand why BA has become a top 10 city for digital nomads and why it's been dubbed "The Paris of South America"! 

If you'd like to join my new FREE Facebook group "Time to Travel: Aspiring Travelers, Expats and Digital Nomads", you can do so here. You'll get access to free insights, advice, and resources for both leisure travel and international relocation! 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/865514988383060 

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free tutorial about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/

Today's guest episode features Marie Norris, a Travel Content Creator and all-around digital nomad. She shares her experience of growing up in small-town Kentucky and feeling the urge to explore the world, starting in Japan as an English teacher! She also gives a fascinating account of leaving Japan permanently and backpacking around Latin America. 

If you're interested in learning about transitioning into a remote-based lifestyle, you'll want to tune into this episode!

You can follow her on Instagram @encompassed.travels!

I'm in my newest country of choice: Argentina! I've been asked many times over the years how I decide on which country to relocate to next: from career motivations to cultural curiosity, I share my own experiences on how my needs and desires are always in flux and that it's possible to design your life around this fluidity!

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free tutorial about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/

Today's guest episode features Michael McDonnell, an owner of a marketing agency and business consultancy. He has crafted a life inspired by Tim Ferriss' 'The 4-Hour Workweek', working only as necessary and maximizing his time to explore the world on his own terms! He shares the very intuitive, on-the-fly way in which he travels and how he manages to visit so many countries in a short amount of time. 

If you're interested in learning how remote work can empower you to craft a travel-based lifestyle, this is an episode you won't want to miss! 

Luckily, Michael loves to offer his insights and expertise to anyone who is interested. You can follow him on Instagram @mmmeaningfulmotivation and connect with him on Facebook under his full name "Michael McDonnell". 

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free training about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/

In this episode I talk to Grace Simmons, Travel Mindset Coach and Founder of the Amethyst Palaver Hut LLC.

Grace’s passion is showing others how to build confidence through wellness and travel. She spent nine years as a U.S. Army Officer, she has travelled since she was a child – sometimes sent alone under the care of the flight crew – and she has successfully planned solo trips, both locally and internationally. 

She is a certified life coach in confidence and mindset life coaching, and she specialises in emotional intelligence. She is also the host of The Random & Wonderful podcast and loves God, food, and dancing randomly to no music!

We discuss the power of solo travel, emotional intelligence, Grace’s experience as an Army reservist, her Empowered Solo program and retreat, skydiving – and the epiphanies you can have while hurtling to the earth – and more!

Connect with our guest:

Sign up for a free discovery session: https://pages.amethystpalaverhut.com/empoweredsoloThe Amethyst Palaver Hut LLC: https://www.amethystpalaverhut.com/The Random & Wonderful Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/heyquickquestion

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Follow Jessica on Instagram @traveltransformationcoach and check out her website at https://www.traveltransformationcoach.com  

Get your free Travel Transformation Guide at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/freeguide

Join the Flip The Script Travel Transformation Academy at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/academy

Check out Jessica’s books at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/books

Email Jessica at info@traveltransformationcoach.com

We’re partnered with Give The Goodness Global, a brilliant global outreach project. Find out more at https://www.instagram.com/givethegoodnessglobal

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review and share with a friend!

 

There is no country I have been asked about more than China! In my time as an expat there, I always had people asking me what it is truly like to live and work in the country. In today's episode, I hope to give you an honest, balanced examination of the various pros and cons of residing in the country. I address everything from work to social dynamics, so tune in if you're considering a move to the People's Republic! 

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free tutorial about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/

Special Episode: Hotels in Del Mar, CA

 

Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide, for women like you who need extra support traveling (slowly) one woman at a time. Please share this podcast with your mom, aunts, and friends. I appreciate your feedback.

 

I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, and trains. I was solo, carrying a small backpack, called a “personal item” that fit under the seat in front of me on a plane.

 

In this episode, FAQ is: Where was your next favorite place on your 90-day trip?

.

Today’s Destination is: Special Episode: Hotels in Del Mar

Today’s Mistake- I booked a hotel that was really a hostel in Manila

Travel Advice: Book at the source when you can and pay less plus control more.

 

FAQ: Where was your next favorite place on your 90-day trip?

 

Answer: For Iceland, the favorite place was Akureri, in the deep north of the country. It was a town of 20,000 residents, nestled in beautiful mountain areas. During my stay, there was an event for long-distance runners. The town came out to cheer them across the finish line after 100 miles of running, all the way from Godafoss. They had 43, 28 and 19 kilometer races, too. That was a powerful message to residents about getting and staying in shape.

I’ll do a podcast about this town soon, but for now, just say A-Ku-Rare-E, accent on the first syllable. That’s how they speak in Iceland.

 

https://adventures.com/iceland/attractions/cities-towns/akureyri/#:~:text=Akureyri%20is%20by%20far%20the,Eyjafj%C3%B6r%C3%B0ur%20Fjord%20in%20Northern%20Iceland.

 

https://www.visitakureyri.is/en/see-and-do/events-festivals/sulur-vertical

 

Today’s destination: Hotels in Del Mar, CA

 

Suppose you’ve been to San Diego, California, a small beach town north of the city called Del Mar. “In Spanish, Of the Sea” literally. The town's size is small, less than 4000 people. You know that the tourists take up a big portion of the traffic in summer and during the horse racing seasons at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, 6 weeks in summer and 4 weeks in November.

 

L’Auberge, part of the Noble House Hotel Chain, is the highest-priced and most luxurious property of those near the beach. I met Taylor Webber, the Guest Experience Coordinator.

Hotel Indigo, Del Mar, and next door to…

Premiere Best Western, also called Hotel Del Mar

Del Mar Hotel upgraded from being the Del Mar Motel for many years. I met with the GM, Leslie Chavez.

Del Mar Hilton, near the Racetrack, is the lowest-priced one listed. the Yelp Reviews are less than favorable here.

 

You can google this and find hotels priced at $2500 a night at resorts like La Valencia. The price is not listed here for the Fairmont, Del Mar, which is in a different zip code several miles away. If you really want to stay IN Del Mar, you should consider one of these hotels, and I’ve been to each of them recently. If you have visitors this fall or winter, you may be in luck to score a room for them.

 

One of the best things I like to do in Del Mar is walk on the beach. You can also bring your dog to the beach during certain seasons on a leash. Tomorrow, I am going to a dog surfing contest in Del Mar. Seriously fun. The link is in the show notes if you want in next year.

https://www.visitdelmarvillage.com/all-events/18th-annual-surf-dog-surf-a-thon

 

https://www.tmz.com/2023/05/19/bill-gates-mansion-bachelor-pad-completed-complaints-neighbors-noise/

One famous local resident is Bill Gates. He has a bachelor pad, recently upgraded, although purchased in 2020 for $43 million.

 

Today’s Mistake- I booked a hotel that was really a hostel.

It was called the White Banana but changed its name. It was The Connector.

The ad said, “kitchenette, deluxe new room,”

It was old, broken, and dirty, and cash payment was due upon arrival—no money back for no-shows. Reviews were 7/10. I was stuck to pay for my stay or lose my reservation while I tried to find somewhere else.

Loud street noise. Blocked out windows. Not a good part of town.

The repairman entered my room without even knocking. He apologized, but that should NEVER happen. The kitchenette had a refrigerator and a sink. There is no electrical outlet or even any silverware or dish. All was dirty. AC was broken. I caution if it seems too good online.

 

Today’s Travel Advice-Book at the source when you can and pay less plus control more.

 

Search out listings on websites like Expedia and Booking.com, and check reviews on reputable websites. THEN book directly with the properties and airlines when you can. That will give you more control as the middleman is removed, and the transaction should be less expensive, usually.

 

 

 

I want to bring meaning to your travels. Send a question or travel tip to info@drmarytravelbest.com. Sign up for the mailing list here. We can connect on my website, Facebook page, group, or Instagram. Subscribe to YouTube, Twitter, or other social channels. Find the 5 Steps to Solo Travel series on Amazon. The show notes have more details for you to connect. Support this podcast with a review, please.

 

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

Drmarytravelbest.com

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email: info@drmarytravelbest.com

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

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In this episode I talk to disability writer, photographer, and paraeducator, Michelle Steiner.

Michelle lives with an invisible disability, having been diagnosed as a young child in kindergarten. She has dyscalculia – a math learning disability – limited hand dexterity, and visual perception issues. Her disability has made things such as maths and driving impossible.

Michelle has had articles published on The Mighty, Non-Verbal Learning Project, Dyscalculia Blog, The Reluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photographs were featured in Word Gathering and Independent and Work Ready.

Michelle works as a paraeducator in a school with students with disabilities, and she lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two cats.

In this episode, we discuss travelling with hidden disabilities, Michelle’s own disabilities and how it affects her life and her trips, the first solo trip she went on, and how she’s taken her passion for advocacy and used it in her role as a paraeducator.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My new Facebook group, The Travel Transformation Lounge: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thetraveltransformationlounge 

My new free guide, 10 Ways You Can Transform Your Life Through Travel (Even When You Can't Travel!): https://traveltransformationcoach.com/transformationguide 

Connect with our guest:

Website: https://www.michellesmission.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100013356902200

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steiner7250/

Anthology: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rediscovering-Your-Story-Expressions-gratitude/dp/B0C4N7W3CQ

Hidden Sunflowers website: https://hdsunflower.com/

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Follow Jessica on Instagram @traveltransformationcoach and check out her website at https://www.traveltransformationcoach.com  

Get your free Travel Transformation Guide at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/freeguide

Join the Flip The Script Travel Transformation Academy at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/academy

Check out Jessica’s books at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/books

Email Jessica at info@traveltransformationcoach.com

We’re partnered with Give The Goodness Global, a brilliant global outreach project. Find out more at https://www.instagram.com/givethegoodnessglobal

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review and share with a friend!

Today's guest episode features Ruth Cohen, an artist and former attorney who is living a nomadic life as an older woman. She currently resides in Paris, France and will be venturing to Southeast Asia to continue her journey as an artist! She shares what life is like in the famous French city, how she deals with visas across multiple locations, how she connects with fellow expats, nomads and locals, and finally how she relies more on her intuition to guide her travel experiences! 

You can follow Ruth on Instagram @ruth.cohen.737 and explore her artwork on her website ruthcohenart.com 

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free training about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/optin 

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

 

Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide for women like you who need extra support traveling (slowly) one woman at a time. Please share this podcast with your mom, aunts, and friends. I appreciate your feedback.

 

I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, and trains. I was solo, carrying a small backpack, called a “personal item,” that fit under the seat in front of me on a plane.

 

In this episode, the FAQ is: What was the most memorable experience on the 90-day trip?

.

Today’s Destination is the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Today’s Mistake- Booking last-minute hotel rooms

Travel Advice: - Have a backup plan, even with Pre-Clearance options, such as in Dublin, Ireland

 

FAQ: What was the most memorable experience on the 90-day trip?

 

Answer: One of the most memorable things was going to a community protest movement in Tel Aviv, Israel. The family I was staying with, including a mom and her two children, was planning to attend a protest. She asked me if I would like to come. I said yes, even though I had not been to a protest in decades. It was peaceful. It was attended by about 50 people in front of the Pardes Hanna City Hall. I did not understand the words, the signs, or the full message, but I felt the personal impact that it was important to these people to be heard and seen. See the show notes for details.

 

https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-06-27/ty-article/.premium/dozens-protest-in-support-of-lgbtq-community-in-northern-israeli-city/00000188-fcb1-d6ce-abb9-fdf72e4e0000

 

 

Today’s destination: Mekong Delta, Vietnam

 

Going through 6 countries, the Mekong River flows 3,000 miles from the Tibetan plateau to the South China Sea. It boasts the world's largest inland fishery. It accounts for up to 25 percent of the global freshwater catch and provides livelihoods for millions of people.

 

You may even see live crocodiles; even though I did not, you can swim in the river.

From the lobby of my HCMC  hotel, Me Gusta, I booked a two-day tour for $59 plus $6 for a single room. This was a low-budget tour, but I did not know it then. This tour was to the Mekong Delta, so here are a few highlights of that English-guided tour.

 

https://megustas.vn/

 

 

 

https://localvietnam.com/tours/mekong-delta/

 

The Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam is a vast maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, home to floating markets, Khmer pagodas, and rice paddies. Boats are the primary means of transportation, and tours of the region often start in nearby Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho, a bustling town in the heart of the delta.

 

My tour hotel was two-star. It had cockroaches. Breakfast was two eggs on a plate, and that was it. I asked for more and got one more egg.

 

Here is where some courage kicked in after breakfast. I was directed to ride on the back of a motorcycle during the morning rush hour to the tour bus in light rain. That was how I got to my bus on day 2. I had no choice, so I agreed. We rode over a bridge that had collapsed in 2007, said my tour driver, Andy, from Sunrise Tours.

 

Later that day, Andy was the one who arranged my adjusted bus trip, and to get to the public bus instead of going back to Ho Chi Minh City, he got me to Phu Quok.  I got picked up at the Farm Place. Before getting on this bus, I had to remove my shoes. That was how they kept the bus clean. We stopped at a gas station to use the restroom, which was filthy.

 

It took the Futa bus to Can Tho and a van to the bus station. I took the Superdong Ferry to Pho Quok. To get there, I had to get to the Phuong Trang bus station and head to Rach Gia.

 

The island of Phu Quok, felt like Hawaii to me. Immediately, I felt the tropical breezes and much tension was gone. I got a massage first thing. I needed it, as I had been feeling miserable with a sinus infection for the past two days.

 

Without a hotel reservation, I walked along the main downtown commercial area with many touristy places strip until I found a nice place with a room. The room was noisy, and construction noise was on the other side of the wall, so I asked to be moved and was. I stayed at a beach bungalow and then rested. Once I felt good, I swam in the ocean at sunset. I slept well, rose early for a 5 a.m. taxi to the airport, and was the first one at the airport for a flight on Vietjet Airlines.

No freeways. 1-2 lanes each way. Motorcycles and lots of noisy horn beeps.

 

 

Today’s Mistake-.Booking last-minute hotel rooms

 

It was a mistake to book last-minute hotel rooms in Vietnam. I should have done my research before and picked some more congenial places. Instead, I got what were leftovers that no one else wanted. I was not sad because I did want to experience what the locals experienced. And I had that. If I were to do it again, I would have planned better and been more sure about what my rooms would be like.

 

Today’s Travel Advice- Have a backup plan, even with Pre-Clearance options, such as in Dublin, Ireland

 

Always have a backup plan in case your trip is interrupted. I heard about some passengers who arrived at Dublin Airport expecting to fly home to the USA, but when they arrived, the customs office was closed, so they missed their flights. Instead, they had to pay a lot to book on other airlines. It cost them dearly. If they had a backup plan or had looked into this situation, they could have avoided this issue. The show notes have details on this pre-clearance.

 

https://www.dublinairport.com/flight-information/travelling-to-usa/faqs

 

 

I want to bring meaning to your travels. Send a question or travel tip to info@drmarytravelbest.com. Sign up for the mailing list here. We can connect on my website, Facebook page, group, or Instagram. Subscribe to YouTube, Twitter, or other social channels. Find the 5 Steps to Solo Travel series on Amazon. The show notes have more details for you to connect. Support this podcast with a review, please.

 

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email: info@drmarytravelbest.com

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Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

 

Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide for women like you who need extra support traveling (slowly) one woman at a time. Please share this podcast with your mom, aunts, and friends. I appreciate your feedback.

 

I’ve returned from a 90-day trip around the globe to every time zone on the planet. My mission is world peace through cultural exchange. I was sustainable when I could by using local transportation, buses, and trains. I was solo, carrying a small backpack, called a “personal item,” that fit under the seat in front of me on a plane.

 

In this episode, FAQ is: What did you wear in Vietnam?

.

Today’s Destination is Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, formerly known as Saigon (south)

Today’s Mistake- Currency exchange rate was high, and I got taken

Travel Advice: - Shoulder season travel will be less costly and more flexible.

 

FAQ: What did you wear in Vietnam?

 

Like other Southeast Asian countries, it is tropical and humid. I was always hot. I wore the lightest possible clothes and took three showers daily when possible. I also found swimming pools to cool down. I wore a short dress instead of shorts and a blouse. I wore a skirt instead of jeans. I wore sandals. I carried an umbrella for sun protection and wore sunscreen daily. I went out early in the morning and late in the afternoon or evening and slept during the day when I could.

 

Today’s destination: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

 

Formerly Saigon, it’s on the coast in the South of Vietnam. The city has 18 districts, and most tourists go to 1, 3, and 5. I took the Hop on Hop Off bus at night, which was pretty amazing because the city is lit up at night like a Christmas tree. This experience covered the main tourist attractions in about 90 minutes. I never could have seen all this during the daytime, with the traffic patterns. Most cars I saw were in traffic jams during the day.

 

How did I plan this part of my trip? I used Booking.com to find hotels. I read guidebooks and talked to friends who have been to Vietnam, especially recently.

The taxis are safer, especially the green ones. I shared a ride from the airport to my hotel at midnight with two people I met on the plane. The traffic is light at midnight.

During the day, that’s different.

 

Quickly, I learned that driving here is a challenge, especially in the Mekong Delta. Listen to that episode. The current exchange rate here is 22,600 dong to the dollar. Your dollar goes far.

 

What did I eat? Fhish sauce and pho, bahn mi.

When I got back to HCMC, I was so hungry. Bong Sen Buffet for a $12 buffet.

That was one of the best meals. Try a buffet if you don’t know what to order.

Here’s what I ate: pho pork, duck egg, ice cream, fried rice, red bean soup, snails with ginger, vegetable soup, eggplant, steamed veggies, prunes, watermelon, dragon fruit, banana cake, papaya, and spring rolls.

 

I stayed at a different hotel: Huong Sen. https://huongsenhotel.com.vn/aboutus.php?cmblang=en

 

 

Construction noise from a different floor was so loud at 9 a.m. after a vast buffet breakfast one morning when all I wanted was sleep. I switched to an annex hotel down the block, owned by the same company. Later that day, I Swam in the pools at the hotel, with excellent views of the city.

About two blocks away, I walked to the Sheraton Hotel for the 23rd-floor view. That was outstanding, especially near sunset.

I also got another Massage, Thai, this time.

 

If you are planning Sights in HCMC, Try these: Rex Hotel, Opera House, downtown shopping malls, and Ben Than Market.

 

What I Bought in Ho Chi Minh City:

A folding umbrella for $3.00

Since mine were broken, leather sandals were a good find at the market. I also bought a lock with a key.

Later, I bought Pharmacy for meds for a sinus infection. I did not need a prescription to get antibiotics here. I had them, but I have yet to use them.

 

In summary,  Ho Chi Minh City had Great hotel buffet breakfasts and plenty of tourists, and it took a lot of work to cross the street safely. I had to follow someone else to travel with them, as it took experience I did not have.

 

Today’s Mistake-.The currency exchange rate was too high.

 

I should have talked to more locals before changing money in Vietnam. I got taken.

I changed US dollars to Cambodian dong, which I did not need. They took US dollars there everywhere. I switched to Indian Rupees, but they gave me a currency that was being removed from the country, so it was not usable. And they gave me change in Vietnamese currency, which I did not want. So I paid a fee for that exchange, too. I had a lot to learn. And still do.

 

Today’s Travel Advice- Shoulder season travel will be less costly and more flexible.

 

You don’t always need the “perfect” season for your travel. Go before or after the peak, and you may find a better overall experience. With climate changes, those traditional windows of weather are not exact. Plan some things and leave other non-essentials to spur of the moment.

 

 

I want to bring meaning to your travels. Send a question or travel tip to info@drmarytravelbest.com. Sign up for the mailing list here. We can connect on my website, Facebook page, group, or Instagram. Subscribe to YouTube, Twitter, or other social channels. Find the 5 Steps to Solo Travel series on Amazon. The show notes have more details for you to connect. Support this podcast with a review, please.

 

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

Drmarytravelbest.com

Dr. Mary Travelbest Twitter

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Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

email: info@drmarytravelbest.com

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In this episode I talk to professional photographer, Domi of @photowalk_in_london. 

Domi came on the podcast back in March to tell me all about her amazing solo traveller photo shoots in London (as well as her other packages, such as business photo shoots, dating profile photo shoots, and even divorce celebration shoots!). I then booked to go and do a photo shoot of my own, which I did in September.

We discuss how my own photo shoot went, the locations we visited, the props I used, and the pros and cons from my perspective, as well as giving some tips on what to do if you want to book your own photo shoot with Domi (which I highly recommend!).

Connect with our guest:

Website: https://scalensstudio.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photowalk_in_london/ 

Previous episode with Domi: https://traveltransformationcoach.com/29 

Book your free consultation with Domi: https://calendly.com/contact-2545/free-consultation?month=2023-09 

See some of the photos on my Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traveltransformationcoach/ 

-----

Follow Jessica on Instagram @traveltransformationcoach and check out her website at https://www.traveltransformationcoach.com  

Get your free Travel Transformation Guide at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/freeguide

Join the Flip The Script Travel Transformation Academy at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/academy

Check out Jessica’s books at https://traveltransformationcoach.com/books

Email Jessica at info@traveltransformationcoach.com

We’re partnered with Give The Goodness Global, a brilliant global outreach project. Find out more at https://www.instagram.com/givethegoodnessglobal

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review and share with a friend!

Have you heard travel influencers say that all you need is "courage" to travel abroad and lead an exciting lifestyle? Well, the Internet has responded with the very valid critique that you can't pay for travel with courage! I couldn't agree with this sentiment more, so this episode is dedicated to giving you practical money tips and strategies for saving to travel more. The key word I hope you take away from this episode is: priorities! 

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free training about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/optin 

Special Edition of Dr. Travelbest Podcast: Part  2 

 

 Responses to Your Questions….. About the Around the Globe adventure that I recently took. 

 

7. What did you learn about yourself?

 

I learned that making decisions is probably the best skill to have when traveling solo. Unless I made a decision, I was not going anywhere. I also learned that I could do a lot more than I had expected of myself. 

Resiliency was one of my takeaways from this adventure.

 

8. Often, when we are courageous, it builds up the muscles and makes you crave to do it repeatedly. Does that ring true for you?

 

The courageous muscle has been working hard. I read Ryan Berman’s book, Courageous, and that also inspired me to make this journey.

 

An example of this is that by the end of the trip, I was getting really good at navigating using the many tools on my smart phone. I was excited to use them, instead of dreading it.

 

9. If you could go back and tell yourself something just before you boarded that first plane, what would it have been?

 

Great question. Bring an ATM card for just in case! I had plenty of cash, so I thought. It would have been so helpful if I had brought the plastic. I did not use cash much at all after leaving Asia, but it would have been helpful, instead of currency exchanges.

 

10. Did you have any doubts or fear during the journey?

 

Yes, especially in India and Italy. In India, I was challenged in ways you would expect. In Italy, I was caught on a public bus without payment, because I downloaded the app, signed up for the service, but I could not activate my payment because of my lack of texting back in the US. I had to pay a steep fine, which I understood was the penalty for not having payment. Due to the language and other barriers, I was disappointed.

 

11. Best food? Best place you stayed? Best weather?

 

Food? I’m not a foodie, but I did enjoy the pizza in Florence. Thin crust with just the right ingredients. The butter and creams in Ireland and Scotland were really tasty, too.

Best stay? Cochin, India. The family sent their driver to pick me up at the airport. They had many servants, who were able to help me adjust to the different food tastes. They had separate meals without chilis for me.

Best Weather? Iceland. The rest of the trip was very hot, so the final stop was cool, but not cold. It was pleasant every day, even a bit rainy, which was refreshing.

 

12. Worst food? Worst place you stayed? Worst weather?

 

Worst food? Chennai, India. It was like a fire in my mouth, even when I asked for not spicy. The chili’s were too hot. I ate from a jar of peanut butter here for two days.

Worst place I stayed? Manila Hotel, which was really a hostel trying to upgrade. I should have paid more and booked outside of the city.  The “kitchen” was a broken tiny refrigerator and sink—nothing more than that, which was dishonest. A repairman walked into my room without knocking. I complained for days and got little response.

Worst weather? Cambodia, because it was just really humid and sticky all the time. 

 

13. Can you tell me any words of inspiration for others thinking about pushing themselves into something courageous?

 

If you have a goal, break it into pieces so you can take it one step at a time. 

 

Reward yourself for mini-milestones. I had a few massages on my trip, not only for the physical therapy but also as a mental reward for staying the course. They were really cheap in Asia, but not so much after that.

 

Thank you for listening to this. Please follow and share comments. What questions did I not answer? I may do another special edition if you ask for it.

 

Today's guest episode features Chelsea Weeding, an Aussie Solo Travel Coach who has a passion for helping others discover the wonderful world of traveling alone and the freedom that comes with it! We talked extensively about Working Holiday Visas across various countries, the difficult ethical questions around the digital nomad life, its growing popularity compared with the “traditional” expat life, and the value of pursuing unconventional life and career paths while proving nay-sayers wrong! 

You can follow Chelsea on Instagram @awanderingredhead 

I am a Relocation Coach who specializes in helping women confidently become solo expats or digital nomads in the country (or countries) of their choice. If you'd like to learn more about what I do, get a free training about my "Femme Frontier" method to solo relocation with the link below! 🌸 

https://femmefrontierfreebie.com/optin 

Special Editions of Dr. Travelbest Podcast: Part 1 of 2

 

 Responses to Your Questions….. About the Around the Globe adventure that I recently took.

 

 

1. Tell me about your 90-day adventure. How long had you waited to go on this adventure?

 

I took a 90-day trip to every time zone in the world, starting in San Diego to the Philippines, Asia, and finishing in Iceland. It was from May 7 to August 7 when I arrived in Seattle. I was on 18 airlines, flew out of 25 airports, and had 70 roommates at 16 hostels and 17 hotel/AirBNB’s.

 

I​ had been planning it for about 15 months. It started out by thinking about round-trip airline tickets and why not just keep going all the way around the world.

 

2. What were some challenges you faced during the courageous adventure?

 

I​ have a terrible sense of direction. I get lost a lot. There was a lot of mental challenge ahead. I also broke my wrist last May, which was a physical bump. or maybe it made me more human and realize that my bones are more brittle.

 

I did not have any role models for this trip. I have never met someone who did this before.

 

During the trip, one day in Italy, I fell. I was standing and then went to take a step, but the step was higher than I thought, so I tripped myself in my long dress. No one was there to see me fall. I injured my back, my wrists and bruised my shin. However, I was ok, with a few cuts and eventually healed. It was July 4th. I was not sure I was going to continue the trip. But I did and I’m glad for that.

 

3. Why did you go Solo?

 

I​'ve been solo before; as early as age 15, I went solo to NY. I stayed there for three weeks with friends, pre-cell phone days. What an experience that was.

Now seemed the best time for me, as I'm an empty nester, and my husband did not want to travel out of the USA. If I hadn't gone now, I might have missed the window of access, health, and courage that it took.

Solo because I didn’t know anyone with the same availability and mission.

 

4. What did you hope to achieve on this mission?

 

​1. My primary mission was to bridge cultural understanding through peaceful interchange with locals around the world. 

I joined a non-profit organization called SERVAS, which stands for "SERVICE," and several families hosted me in 5 of the countries, where I stayed for up to two nights for no cost.

It was a way to live like they do and see their lives firsthand. This organization is all volunteer-run, started after WW2 and the mission was relevant to my outreach. I also tried to inspire other female travelers to go places, even if it was uncomfortable at first.

 

2. I've written several books on solo travel, so I'm gathering content for the next books in the series.

 

3. As a professor, I'm naturally curious, so I wanted to see what marketing looked like in these regions of the world outside of my current experience.

 

 

5. What is the treasure that you returned with?

 

​The treasure is outside of counting countries or sites visited. The treasure is in the stories that came from the people I met.

 

One of the comments I heard often was I needed to learn how to pack light, so I tried to teach others how to do this. I carried a “personal item” weighing less than 15 lb./7kg, and it was a small backpack that could go under the airplane seat in front of me. I was on a budget, and this saved hundreds of dollars in baggage fees.

 

6. How did you navigate language barriers and cultural differences? Tell us a couple of stories.

 

I​n my first country, the Philippines, my daughter, age 28, met me at the airport from Taiwan. She and I traveled for the first week together. That was great as a starting point. She returned to Taipei, and I went to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It wasn't until ten weeks later that I landed in an English-first country and could easily converse. I used a lot of gestures and facial expressions and tried to learn a few words in each country.

 

In Agra, India, I met a SERVAS host family who was having a wedding. Their daughter was betrothed in an arranged marriage, and I was invited to attend. I was, unfortunately, unable to go to the wedding, but the morning I left, we got stuck in traffic (which included cows, rickshaws, and semi-trucks), and I saw but missed the bus to Dehli. However, we had a high-speed chase and caught up with the bus at the next stop about 10 miles away. It was dramatic and quite an adventure that was unexpected.

 

In Tel Aviv, Israel, I was hosted through SERVAS by a mom and her two kids. We went to a peaceful protest rally with plenty of kids and dogs in the community square, where I did not understand any of the speakers, but by being there, I knew that they cared about their community and rights.

 

Listen to the next episode for Part 2 of this Special Edition.